More than $50,000 was raised for essential local programs in Saturday night’s Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk thanks to the efforts of 157 walkers, 29 teams and 37 volunteers. Turn to page 8 for a story and more photos.
SIMMONS
Regional Editor
Despite concerns from the St. Marys Pickleball Association about public perception should there be a loss of trees and green space at the Water Street courts, St. Marys council voted Feb. 24 to proceed with plans to expand the existing facility rather than begin searching for alternative sites.
Council’s decision followed months of
consultation, including the work of a racket-sports ad-hoc committee comprising representatives from the pickleball association and the St. Marys Tennis Club, and direction stemming from the town’s Recreation, Culture and Leisure Master Plan.
“We were thinking the next steps in the process would be that we would take it to Upper Thames (River Conservation Authority) to determine what approvals and permitting
St. Marys council opts to retain, fence off large West Quarry pillars as cleanup moves ahead
Regional Editor
St. Marys council has reversed course on its previous decision to remove all concrete structures at the West Quarry, voting recently to retain and fence off the site’s six large industrial pillars as part of this year’s cleanup and revitalization work.
The decision came as council received an update on the West Quarry enhancement project at its Feb. 24 regular meeting. The staff report presented to council by director of public works Jed Kelly and cultural services manager Amy Cubberley outlines cleanup plans for 2026 and addresses motions brought forward last November regarding the fate of the pillars following presentations by local historians on the importance of preserving the structures as visual reminders of the town’s industrial past.
“(Infrastructure services manager) Jeff (Wolfe) and I have been working on this since the delegation in November,” Cubberley told council. “One of the recommendations out of that was to look at the smaller (concrete structures) and whether those could be saved or preserved in some way. So, Jeff and I did a walkthrough of the site and did take an inventory. There are 19 smaller remnants down there and our opinion is that none of those can viably be saved.
“Some of the concerns we had was the geo -
requirement would be needed if we were to move forward with a project such as an expansion at the Water Street location,” St. Marys community services director Stephanie Ische said. “However, following these consultations, the pickleball association has indicated that they do not wish move forward with further expansion at the existing Water Street location. Their concerns focus primarily around green space and the mature trees, and they have expressed a preference not to proceed with any further development at this time at that location.
“They didn’t want the tree removal or compromise of the existing site to trigger public pushback, and they didn’t want it
to reflect poorly on them as an organization. … However, they do remain fully committed to the goal of establishing courts for both groups at some point. … In contrast, the representatives from the tennis community have stated that they wish to continue with the expansion at the Water Street location.”
Both groups indicated they would be open to fundraising in support of new courts.
Ische presented three possible paths forward for council’s consideration at the Feb. 24 meeting: abandon the expansion at Water Street and focus on longer-term master-plan recommendations including the development of a multi-sport, outdoor recreation centre; begin looking for other
town-owned land to develop new courts; or continue pursuing expansion at the existing site.
The expansion option endorsed by council will see the town continue pre-consultations with the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) regarding potential design options for adding additional courts at the current site. Any expansion would need to account for the proximity of the Thames River floodplain and other site constraints like its proximity to the Riverview Walkway.
Alternative options, including acquiring or developing new parkland for dedicated racket-sport courts, were acknowledged as longer-term initiatives that would require time, potential subdivision approvals and significant capital investment. The master plan also references previously considered town-owned land on Given Road for a future recreation complex, but that concept carries a long-term timeline and multi-million-dollar budget implications.
“With the history of trees in St. Marys,
ably rotten anyways inside – and I’m a tree hugger,” Coun. Marg Luna said in support of the Water Street court expansion. “So, losing three trees is not a huge concern to me.”
“I think what you guys have created here is good,” Coun. Dave Lucas added. “I love the layout of (the expansion). It allows you to put in two courts now. If, another 10 years down the road, there’s a need for two more courts, you’ve got the room for it. … To me, this is a no-brainer.”
In prior discussions, council and staff have emphasized that, while long-term solutions remain on the table, the immediate challenge is addressing capacity pressures at the Water Street courts, which currently serve both the 72-member tennis club and the 140-member pickleball association.
Further design work and consultation with the UTRCA will determine the feasibility, scope and cost of the proposed expansion before any final construction plans are brought back to council for approval.
GALEN SIMMONS
Regional Editor
As the clock springs forward this weekend and we get more daylight later into the evening, and as we look ahead to double-digit temperatures with lots of rain over the next week or so, I’ve been hearing a lot about how winter has released its icy grip and spring has sprung.
Sure, I’ve also been encouraged by the weather as of late. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and the snow seems to be falling with much less frequency and intensity. I haven’t shovelled the driveway – even a little bit – in over a week.
But we’ve played this game before. A thaw in mid-February to early March fools us into thinking the worst of winter is in the rearview. We chip the ice from the end of our driveway, put away the snow shovels and winter coats, and trade our boots for shoes as if we won’t need that thick tread under our feet until the snow flies again in the fall.
Yet Mother Nature is a fickle mistress. As soon as we think we’re safe and we’ve let our collective guard down, she likes to catch us unaware with one more blast of winter – a blizzard, an ice storm, or a deep freeze that turns the
driveway into a sheet of ice that makes me wish I’d traded my boots for skates instead of shoes.
Even our most trusted animal harbingers of spring don’t always get it right. I’ve seen robins hiding from snowstorms in the undergrowth, and I’m pretty sure that damned groundhog has been wrong more times than he’s been right.
While I admit willful ignorance bordering on blind optimism is the strategy that gets many of us through winter’s darkest days and longest nights, constantly moving the goalposts of spring a little farther ahead until the warmer weather is actually here to stay, as Canadians, we know the truth deep down in our woolen socks.
Winter will depart when it’s good and ready. At this point in March, there is no meteorologist on the planet who can convince me otherwise. And while I may not always choose to wear my boots or my winter jacket when I go out in the coming weeks, you better believe I’m not putting them away for the season – at least not yet.
As for my winter tires, they’ll come off in May or June – or maybe in July if I put that off for too long again – when Mother Nature couldn’t possibly throw another flake of snow our way.
fail to find the Moon at all? The hour we lose this weekend is the one when I was going to go to the gym!
Have you heard something humorous around town that you think might be of interest to others? Either email them to us at info@stmarysindependent.com with the title “Overheard at The Coffee Shop”,
We have 1 Bravo this week.
1) Bravo and a wholehearted thank you to the staff and patrons of Joe’s Diner on Saturday, Feb. 21 when I fell in the room. Your quick actions to help me feel settled and help me up was amazing and brings life to the saying “St. Marys, the Town worth living in.”
We have 1 Boo this week. 1) I need to submit a boo to myself. My sincere apology to the gentleman who I talked to outside the post office approx. three weeks ago. I am sorry that I had not stayed to help you with your walker. We had errands to do but your safety was important.
*Please note all Boos and Bravos must be signed in order to be considered. Bravos and Boos are submitted by community members and
“Canada’s position remains clear: the Islamic Republic of Iran is the principal source of instability and terror throughout the Middle East, has one of the world’s worst human rights records, and must never be allowed to obtain or develop nuclear weapons,”
- Prime Minister Mark Carney’s take on Canada’s position on the attack of Iran that took place this past weekend.
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
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36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 info@stmarysindependent.com | 519.284.0041 | granthaven.com
OF THE WEEK War does not determine who is right, only who is left. We don’t have to agree on everything to be kind to each other. When we stand together, we win together. Do not let the behaviors of others destroy your inner peace.
and the town’s animal-control program.
Contribution
The Town of St. Marys is reminding residents that licensing their pets is an important part of responsible pet ownership and an easy way to protect their furry family members.
Pet licences for 2026 are now available, and owners are encouraged to register before March 31, when annual fees will increase. Pet tags are currently $25 per year per pet. After March 31, the fee will rise to $35 per pet.
Licensing a pet provides significant benefits for both owners and the community. A current pet tag greatly increases the chances of being reunited quickly if a dog or cat becomes lost. When animal control finds a licensed pet, staff can immediately identify the owner and make arrangements for a safe return home. In addition, the fees collected from pet licences help support important local services, including the St. Marys dog park
“Registering your pet is one of the simplest ways to keep them safe,” said Town of St. Marys clerk Jenna McCartney in a press release.
Pet licences can be purchased quickly and conveniently online at townofstmarys.com/petlicences. Residents may also register in person at town hall (175 Queen St. E) or the municipal operations centre (408 James St. S) during regular business hours.
Pet tags are valid for the entire life of the animal, but annual registration fees are required. Invoices are sent to owners each year, and payments can be made online, by cash, or by cheque.
More information about pet licensing, including payment options, is available at townofstmarys.com/petlicences. Questions can be directed to the clerks department at 519-284-2340 ext. 305 or by email at clerksoffice@town.stmarys. on.ca.
Looking for fun ways to make the most of March Break? Come out to the PRC and dive into the excitement at our upcoming sponsored skates and swims! Pre-register now to guarantee your spot!
EarlyON is hosting an engaging program to help parents understand what their child is really asking for. This is a 7-week, inperson program with childminding available.
Our Seniors of the Week are Kevin and Gail McCauley who are both celebrating 80th birthdays. Gail was born March 7, 1946 and Kevin on March 9, 1946. Both were raised in St. Marys and got married on Oct. 31, 1964. They have three children, a son-in-law, four grandsons, two granddaughters-in-law and five great grandchildren. Happy Birthday!
If you would like to nominate someone for Senior of the Week, contact us at 519.284.0041 or info@stmarysindependent.com.
ST. MARYS INDEPENDENT
Staff Contribution
The popular St. Marys Museum speaker series resumes its 13th season this spring with a variety of engaging evening presentations.
On Thursday, March 19, the museum will hold a presentation about the history of telephones. Curatorial and programming assistant Abigail Parsons will discuss the 150th anniversary of the creation of the telephone and how that has impacted the St. Marys area.
On Thursday, April 16, local historian Mary Smith will explore the legacy of Arthur Meighen, Canada’s ninth Prime Minister. Born in Anderson, Meighen attended high school in St. Marys before becoming a lawyer and
politician. This presentation will explore his life, political career and controversial legacy.
On Thursday, May 21, a special screening of We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of the Ontario Farmerettes will take place. This documentary reveals the forgotten story of the Ontario Farm Service Force, which put 40,000 volunteer teenage girls to work between 1941 and 1952. Tickets will be available for purchase in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more details about this special presentation.
The speaker series is a fundraiser for the museum. The cost per person is $12 or $10 for museum members. Space is limited and therefore pre-registration is necessary. For more information or to register, call 519-2843556 or email museum@town.stmarys.on.ca.
ST. MARYS INDEPENDENT
Staff Contribution
The Town of St. Marys is encouraging residents to recognize locals who give back through its annual Strong as Stone recognition program.
The program allows residents to nominate individuals whose selfless deeds contribute to the quality of life in our community. Eligible nominees are publicly recognized at a town council meeting, celebrated in the media and given an official certificate.
“This program recognizes community members who make a difference,” said Mayor Al Strathdee in a press release. “Their generosity and dedication set an example
for us all.”
St. Marys residents of any age, or those from outside of the community whose actions benefit St. Marys, are eligible for nomination. Only volunteer and voluntary service can be nominated; elected officials and those who do good as part of their job cannot.
The nomination period will run from March 8-22. Nominees who meet the criteria will be announced in April.
The application form can be completed online at www. townofstmarys.com/StrongAsStone; paper copies are available at the Friendship Centre by advance request to corporate communications coordinator Lauren Thomson-Vernooy at communications@town.stmarys.on.ca.
Which Renaissance artist painted ‘The School of Athens’ in the Vatican?
5. In ‘Children of Men’, what event has made humanity desperate?
7.
is
10. What country do the Galapagos Islands belong to?
Caring for our community is at the heart of what we do.
This winter, the team of St Marys Optometry is proud to participate in the Coldest Night of the Year, supporting those in our community who need it most.
Winter conditions can be tough on your eyes too. If you’re due for an eye exam or noticing dry, tired eyes, we’re here to help.
McDonald of 162
STEWART GRANT
Publisher
was all
The Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce holds many events during the year, including the monthly Business After 5 (BA5) networking gatherings for its members.
The most recent BA5 was held here in St. Marys last Wednesday, Feb. 25, with proprietor Taylor McDonald hosting at 162 Queen.
Conveniently leading into the downtown Soup Crawl the same evening, the BA5 event was well-attended, providing many with their first look inside the renovated space and a better understanding of the two separate businesses that operate from this downtown location.
What stood out most to attendees was the unique combination of workspace and accommodations. Having The Loft upstairs allows for retreats, multi-day workshops, or a “stay and work” experience, something people were genuinely excited about.
“I was overwhelmed in the best way by the turnout,” said McDonald, who estimated that approximately 40-50 people attended the event at 162 Queen and The Loft @ 162 Queen.
“Just four months ago, 162 Queen and The Loft @ 162 Queen were simply ideas and concepts. To see such strong attendance and receive overwhelmingly positive feedback in such a short time has been incredibly encouraging. Many people shared that a space like this is truly needed not only in St. Marys, but
while hosting a fantastic “Business After 5”
Feb.
especially for service-based and online businesses looking for professional environments to host workshops, meet with clients, or collaborate with their teams.”
McDonald shared that bookings on both levels have been off to a good start.
“The Loft @ 162 Queen has been booked every weekend since opening on Nov. 21, 2025, with only a handful of weekend dates remaining between now and September. Guests have primarily been visiting friends and family in the area or exploring everything St. Marys and the surrounding communities have to offer.
“On the workspace side, bookings continue to grow steadily. Many clients are renting the entire space for team days, workshops and private meetings. Both spaces are being used on a near-daily basis.
McDonald explained that one trend she has noticed is while many people have the ability to work from home, many are looking for a professional, neutral environment in the downtown core; a space that feels welcoming yet productive.
Overnight accommodations at The Loft @ 162 Queen can be booked directly through Airbnb (airbnb.ca/h/ theloftat162queen), while workspace rentals at 162 Queen can be booked online through the company’s booking platform at https://162queen.simplybook.me/ v2/#. For those interested in booking both spaces together, reserving multiple days, or arranging something not listed online, contact McDonald directly at 162queenstreeteast@gmail.com.
Together St.
Publisher
The sixth annual edition of St. Marys’ Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk was the biggest one yet, with 157 walkers, 29 teams, 37 volunteers and $52,855 raised.
St. Marys was one of 222 locations across Canada participating on Saturday, Feb. 28, in the annual fundraising walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. Across the nation, approximately $15 million was raised in this year’s efforts.
Here in St. Marys, the event was organized by United Way Perth-Huron’s St. Marys community committee to provide supportive funding for two essential local programs: the St. Marys community outreach worker and the Nourish Equal Access Market.
The St. Marys community outreach worker program offers facilitation, education and referrals for residents in need of support with life skills, mental health, homelessness and addictions. The out-
reach worker provides short-term assistance, connects community members to critical services and delivers community education and outreach, including liaising between landlords and tenants.
Jade Orquin, the Town of St. Marys community outreach worker, hosts weekly drop-in office hours every Tuesday at both the St. Marys Public Library (10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and the Friendship Centre (1:30-3:30 p.m.). These sessions help residents connect with support programs offered by the town.
“Starting a conversation often helps me identify support services I can suggest or provide,” said Orquin, who encourages people to feel welcome and comfortable dropping by for a chat.
Run by the Local Community Food Centre, the Nourish Equal Access Market provides fresh, nutritious, locally sourced produce and meats to residents facing food insecurity. The market runs on the first and third Thursday of each month at the St. Marys United Church and is open to everyone – a point that Julie Docker-Johnson, community connector with The Local, emphasized after the walk.
Chef Nathan Brown made a wonderful soup (smoked ham cassoulet with a trio of beans and white bean puree) to warm up walkers and volunteers following the two-kilometre and five-kilometre walk. He is pictured here with Pamela Zabel who helps organize the annual Coldest Night of the Year event. Nathan said all the soup ingredients were provided by The Local Community Food Centre in Stratford who services the St. Marys Nourish Market. “With donated products like the beans and ham, I was able to cook 43 litres of soup for just $15. Any leftover soup will be on sale at the next Nourish Market held this Thursday at the United Church. This shows there is opportunity to have nourishing, healthy food on a restricted budget with services like Nourish and The Local with all they provide to our community.”
“Lots of people think the Nourish Market isn’t for them because they can go to any grocery store they want to. It is in fact for you because you are part of this community.”
Docker-Johnson added many of those who have saved on their grocery shopping budget have further supported the program by donating so the market is al
“The Nourish Market is about fresh food for everybody. We all deserve it, we should all have it and we invite you to come check it out, bring a friend. It is for everyone, always.”
Donations for the Coldest Night of the Year are still being accepted throughout the month of March. To make a donation online, visit https://en.cnoy.org/location/
graphic spacing of them; they’re quite sprawled and there isn’t a tidy cluster we could fence off appropriately. We also felt that they, being lower, are more of a climbing temptation than the taller ones. … So, again, we’re kind of just looking back at whether council wishes to keep those six (larger) pillars in place and explore some fencing options for those.”
As part of a broader plan to rehabilitate the former industrial site for passive recreational use, council had previously endorsed the removal of the 20-foot-tall concrete pillars left behind by limestone-mining operations. However, following the delegation from local historians late last year and further review by staff, council directed staff to implement the fencing option – preserving the pillars while restricting public access.
According to the staff report, four options were considered: complete removal ($38,000-$68,000), partial removal ($105,000), fencing ($40,000) and parging and repair ($332,000). The fencing option was identified as the lowest-cost, preservation-focused approach and aligns with the delegation’s proposal to allow the structures to remain while reducing risk. Staff note the pillars are not believed to be at immediate risk of collapse and would not require stabilization if fenced off.
“I don’t see removing them down the road; I just see leaving them fenced and with the plaque that’s there or an additional plaque that says these pillars were saved by this council,” said Coun. Marg Luna, later noting she was originally in favour of removing the concrete structures until she realized it would be less expensive to simply fence them off and leave them in place. “I don’t see that there’s any further expense except maybe for the fence, which is minimal, I would think.”
“After doing a personal walkthrough of that location yesterday, it became quite apparent to me that the six tall structures, although there was some parging on the outside coming down, did look solid,” Coun. Jim Craigmile added. “It’s in an area where the grade is very steep from a couple yards off the trail to where the fence is, down to the water’s edge. I really believe you’re going to need some sort of fencing there anyways. … So, I’m not sure the fencing is going to cost any extra because I think you’re going to need it there for safety … because it is steep.”
Council’s decision marks a shift from its February 2025 direction to remove the pillars entirely as part of the cleanup project. At that time, removal was supported primarily for safety and liability reasons. Since then, local historians have urged council to consider preserving the structures as tangible links to St. Marys’ limestone-mining past.
“I appreciate the delegation that came out and I appreciate the history,” Coun. Dave Lucas said. “We’re looking to re -
habilitate the quarry, so … if we want a reminder of the industry that has created this town, it would be the quarry itself, which we’re not proposing to fill in; we’re proposing to expose and make it look good. I can’t get my head wrapped around leaving crumbling concrete in that.”
St. Marys Mayor Al Strathdee, who was notably absent from the Feb. 24 council meeting, also spoke strongly in favour of removing the concrete structures from the quarry last year, suggesting they were little more than industrial garbage.
As part of council’s direction to staff to retain the six large pillars, town staff will report back on timelines and budget considerations for fencing them off –something town CAO Brent Kittmer said could happen during site cleanup efforts beginning in the spring, both to improve safety around the pillars and to take advantage of the work already being done there.
Quarry cleanup efforts to begin this spring
This spring’s work at the West Quarry will focus on removing fencing and industrial waste materials, regrading the landscape and preparing the site as a more usable open space. Construction is anticipated to occur in May and June, with restoration completed before the swimming-quarry season begins June 26.
“We were successful with the TOARC (Ontario Aggregate Resources Corporation) partnership,” Kelly said. “The way that TOARC grants funding; it’s a little different. There’s no funding agreement. We don’t get a cheque from them. Basically, we just surrender the site and then they’re going to take our unit-rate contractor and they’ll start the removals.
“They’re figuring on a maximum upset
limit of 2,000 cubic metres of material … and then they said if we get the clean-fill material down to the site, they’ll place it for us. … From our perspective, we’ll be looking at screening some yard-waste compost from the landfill … and we’ll have to bring that down first. So, we will have cost to prep it and then once it gets into the TOARC cleanup, they’ll take over with our contractor.”
Cleanup efforts will include identifying and removing concrete and steel waste, importing soil to allow for regrading of the westerly side of the site, re-establishing turf and facilitating longterm maintenance as open space. During construction, the Riverview Walkway between the racket courts and St. Maria Street will be closed for approximately four weeks to ensure public safety.
Investigations carried out in 2025 –including water-quality sampling and
a bathymetric analysis – confirmed the West Quarry is suitable for a range of potential water-based recreational uses, with no significant hazards beyond a few localized submerged structures where signage may be appropriate. The sampling found water quality consistent with that of the swimming quarry.
With the cleanup and regrading expected to be substantially complete this summer, council plans to undertake broader public consultation in fall 2026 to help inform long-term uses of the quarry beginning in 2027. Future considerations may include partnerships or lease opportunities, with the St. Maria Street pump house identified as a potential support building for office, storage or washroom space.
The 2026 capital budget includes $100,000 for the West Quarry enhancement project.
St. Marys council has finalized its 2026 community-grants allocations, making several adjustments to the recommendations brought forward earlier this month and redistributing funds after removing a grant for the St. Marys Ringette Association.
Council first reviewed the 2026 Community Grants report at its Feb. 17 strategic priorities committee meeting. According to the report, the town received 20 applications this year requesting a combined $74,920.45. Of that total, $66,661.68 was deemed eligible, including $27,829 in standing grants and $38,832.68 in application-based grants.
With a total approved budget of $56,000 for 2026, the program faced a funding shortfall of $10,661.68 based on eligible requests, leading staff to recommend prorated allocations for each eligible applicant who applied for grants for this year.
At its Feb. 24 meeting, council made several changes to those staff recommendations before approving the final allocations.
“I’d like to remind everybody at this time a year ago, we did strike a committee to look at the policy and come up with some revisions, and that didn’t happen,” Coun. Jim Craigmile said. “I do believe in order to make these sorts of decisions; we have to somehow first change the policy.”
Most notably, councillors voted to remove the proposed $648 grant allocation for the St. Marys Ringette Association. During discussion, members of council
pointed to the town’s community grant policy, which states applicants must be able to demonstrate financial need and how a denial of funding would impact their ability to carry out the planned program or event. Councillors indicated minor sports organizations are generally not able to demonstrate that level of financial need under the policy.
“I do believe last year we … talked briefly about the ringette association grant that is still listed (in the staff recommendations). … We talked about minor sports and getting equipment, and I’m really concerned we’re not just reopening a large can of worms. I’m all for striking that part,” Craigmile said.
“Last year, a decision was made by council that no minor sports organization was going to receive a grant because they couldn’t demonstrate financial need because all of them had fairly sufficient bank accounts,” CAO Brent Kittmer said. “So last year, that meant St. Marys Minor Basketball, St. Marys Minor Soccer, St. Marys Minor Ringette and St. Marys Minor Hockey were all denied a grant. That may have factored into why none of those organizations applied again this year.”
Council also voted to increase several grants to the full amount requested where those requests were under $1,000. Councillors discussed how prorating smaller requests can have a disproportionate impact on organizations operating with tight margins.
“I got thinking about what’s equitable and what’s fair, and I don’t think the two are the same,” Coun. Dave Lucas said. “My problem … was if we prorate ev-
erybody, which would be the equitable option (for a community grants funding shortfall), is that fair to everybody? And I was struggling with a way to put this into a policy that, again, keeps it fair amongst everybody and gives us a framework to work off as opposed to going line by line to determine which group is more important than the other, because I think that becomes a slippery slope.
“My biggest problem, for example, was the Terry Fox Foundation looking for $200. That $200 to that organization – it was in-kind, I believe, for picnic tables – really is fairly significant for their organization. The other one was the horticultural society looking for $650 to plant flowers on our property to beautify our town, and we’re going to reduce them by $200. To me … if somebody’s asking for a smaller amount, and I’m going to say under $1,000, and we feel it fits into the parameters of our program, I think we give them the full funding. If their ask is over $1,000, that’s where maybe we come in and prorate it because normally the organizations that come in over $1,000 are fairly significant or bigger clubs. They probably have the funds, the means, if they’re asking for a significant amount, to offset any kind of proration from the town.”
As a result, the Terry Fox Foundation will receive the full $200 in-kind donation for picnic tables for the annual run. The St. Marys Horticultural Society will receive its full $652 request, and Giving Tuesday St. Marys will receive its full $872.62 request.
With the removal of the ringette alloca-
tion, council redistributed the remaining funds among other eligible applicants before approving the final 2026 community-grants list.
The approved allocations are as follows: 2026 Standing Community Grants
• Canada Day Parade – $3,000
• Community Dinner – $1,500
• St. Michael CSS – $750
• St. Marys DCVI – $1,500
• Station Gallery – $10,000
• United Way Perth-Huron – $11,079 2026 Application-Based Community Grants
• Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame –$2,000
• Giving Tuesday St. Marys – $872.62
• GOALS – $2,544
• Kaswentha Two Row Now – $1,015
• Kinsmen Club of St. Marys – $3,658
• Rotary Club of St. Marys – $1,994
• Royal Canadian Legion Perth Regiment – $1,463
• St. Marys Farmers’ Market – $1,463
• St. Marys Horticultural Society – $652
• St. Marys Imagination Library –$2,561
• St. Marys Lincolns Junior Hockey Club – $3,658
• Stonetown Quilters’ Guild & Huron Perth Quilters’ Guild – $3,658
• Teddy Bear Reunion – $1,097
• Terry Fox Foundation – $200
• To St. Marys With Love – $1,336
The 2026 Community Grants program supports eligible organizations delivering activities, projects and programs that align with council’s priorities in culture and recreation, balanced growth and economic development, and housing.
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available and soup crawlers could leave their votes at any of the businesses.
4.Edye Farms | Cream of Mushroom (DF, GF, V) | 6 Water St. -2
On Feb. 25, downtown St. Marys was full with folks who turned out for the same purpose – to sample soups and vote on their favourite.
This was the third year for Soup Crawl. In its first year, the event was hosted at Betty’s Bookshelf. A few different kinds of soup were available to try from recipes found in staff’s favourite cookbooks, and visitors voted on their preferred choice.
Since the event was a hit, Jan Scott of Betty’s Bookshelf reached out to the BIA and invited other businesses to join in for the following year. That year, seven businesses took part as the event grew. This year, Soup Crawl was even bigger with 15 businesses that signed up to open their doors and invite the public in to try soup and look around.
The evening was blanketed in a gentle snowfall, making it a fitting night to try some comfort food.
The free event that only asked attendees to bring their own spoons was a huge hit, and a few businesses had lineups out the door.
All participating locations had ballots
The proud winning location will receive a Soup Crawl spoon plaque to show off. All of the votes from the winning soup were entered into a draw for a set of handmade ceramic soup bowls by Zenfire Pottery & Mercantile.
The winner of this year’s soup crawl was Angela MacPhearson from Purpour Refillery & Boutique with her delicious Chicken Enchilada Soup. Scott of Betty’s Bookshelf was the winner of the handmade ceramic soup bowls.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the event and cast their votes,” MacPhearson said. “Thank you to the BIA for organizing such a successful event. I did find the recipe on Pinterest and the enchilada sauce and taco seasoning recipes on the web.”
Below is the list of businesses that participated:
1.Quarry’s Edge | Creamy Squash (V option) | 12 Water St. N
2.The Flour Mill | Pasta e Fagioli (GF) | 6 Water St. S
3.Betty’s Bookshelf | Zuppa Toscana (GF) | 6 Water St. S Unit 2
5.The Wine Lab | Broccoli Cheddar | 16 Water St. S
6.Physio Nook | A Little Bit Leeky & Potato (GF, V option) | 18 Water St. S
7.Izzy’s Place | Cabbage Roll | 36 Water St. S
8.Purpour Refillery | Enchilada Comfort Soup (GF) | 21 Water St. S
9.Troyer’s Spices | Chilled Yogurt Fruit (GF, V) | 110 Queen St. E
10.Stratford Walking Tours | Spicy Buffalo Chicken | 110 Queen St. E
11.Meridian Credit Union | Pear and Squash (GF, V) | 134 Queen St. E
12.Dunny’s Source for Sports | Beef Taco | 154 Queen St. E
13.PerthStone Kitchen | Moroccan Chickpea (GF, DF, V option) | 159 Queen St. E
14.Lyric Flower Shop | Thai | 123 Queen St. E
15.Towne & Country Cheese Shoppe | Loaded Baked Potato (GF) | 117 Queen St. E
Chicken enchilada comfort soup
The following is Angela MacPhearson’s winning soup recipe from the 2026 St. Marys BIA Soup Crawl.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium) GF
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce (*homemade)
• 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) **Taco Seasoning (ingredients from Troyer’s)
• ¾ cup coconut milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (optional)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil (for sauteing)
• 1 small onion, diced (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
Method:
1.In a large pot, sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
2.Add broth, enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes and taco seasoning.
3.Stir in chicken, beans and corn. Simmer 10-15 minutes.
4.Add shredded cheese, if using, and stir until melted.
5.Stir in coconut milk and warm
6.Taste and season. Serve hot with toppings of choice.
(STEWART GRANT PHOTO)
Last week’s Soup Crawl was a great opportunity for folks to visit businesses of all kinds, including The Quarry’s Edge, which opened on Water Street North in late 2025. Pictured here, to the left side of Darth Vader, are Eduardo Barreto, Emily Barreto, and Julie Hinz who were all visiting St. Marys from Mitchell. Pictured on the right are family business owners Lisa and John Bourgon, along with their son Jonathan. The Quarry’s Edge will be holding their Grand Opening celebration the weekend of March 28-29, from noon until 7 p.m.
Regional Editor
For anyone who has ever thought, “I should really write that down someday,” St. Marys writer, poet and editor Kate Orland Bere is thinking someday might just be this spring.
Orland Bere’s business, Odyssey Indigo Communications & Consulting, is launching a four-week memoir/ legacy writing workshop at Riverwalk Commons in St. Marys on Tuesday, March 24. Various ongoing writing workshops will be offered on a rotating 4-week plan in the sun-filled Riverwalk Commons space on Tuesday mornings. Others from the community may come to Riverwalk at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays, after the workshop finishes each week, for just $10 cash, and stay until 2 p.m. to write.
The following Monday, on March 30, Orland Bere will offer an inaugural Grief Writing workshop at Terra Nova Nordic Spa, just north of Woodstock. On the final Monday morning of each month, she will also be offering rotating writing workshops there. The Grief Writing workshop is focused on healing: grief exploration for the purpose of integrating grief into one’s life and moving through grief from where we stand. The workshop is intended to assist with healing through writing exercises, meditation, poems, stories and music.
A developmental and substantive editor who works closely with clients on their life stories, Orland Bere says the memoir and legacy workshop in St. Marys offers those who have a critical story to tell a dynamic forum to explore their projects.
“Not everyone is going to take on writing a full memoir,” she said. “However, one can write a unique legacy story about their family or business to leave for the generations to follow. For business, their captured narrative carries the potential for exceptional promotion. A well-rendered memoir or story can provide invaluable ballast and deep meaning for those who will follow us.
In that writing process, I am a seasoned guide offering workshop participants a roadmap to their story’s success.”
The workshop is designed as an extended brainstorming session for anyone who has an idea for a memoir, has already started one, or wants to craft a legacy piece. Over four Tuesday mornings, participants will be guided in exploring their narrative and how to shape their experiences into a significant story.
Orland Bere says this work can be challenging yet deeply rewarding.
“It’s the engagement that matters. If people become deeply engaged with their ideas and life experience, incredible projects are born. In a group setting, ideas can explode into something vital. Join us!” she said.
“Writing your memoir or story becomes a meaningful journey. Sometimes it’s about reclaiming parts of our-
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selves we imagined we had lost; sometimes we just need to write our truth. The workshop provides a dynamic environment to explore where the deepest meaning lies in a particular story, and how best to effectively convey that meaning to readers. As a professional writer and editor, as a poet, I offer my writing expertise and guidance in that essential creative process.”
Beginning March 24, the four-Tuesdays workshop series at Riverwalk Commons will run from 9-11 a.m., and the workshop fee of $150 includes access to the space until 2 p.m. one all four Tuesdays. Doors open at 8:30 a.m. Participants can bring a lunch or pay for a catered wrap, join an open discussion over lunch, and, if desired, sit down with Kate for an included project consultation. On April 21, the next four-week session will begin, a poetry workshop to celebrate National Poetry Month. With Odyssey Indigo as her brand, Orland Bere has developed a full slate of additional workshops she plans to roll out over time at Riverwalk, at Terra Nova Nordic Spa and elsewhere. Topics range from grief writing, poetry, and short fiction to creative retirement planning and career transitions (both under the banner Gratefully Rewired), brainstorming an art-based business, helping young people to choose a career foundation, and a humanist feminist series entitled SisterThink (Orland Bere writes a column on Substack entitled “SisterTHINK”). Orland Bere is a trained and experienced career-development professional, offering consulting in both areas. She also has 10 years of post-secondary writing education at McGill University, the University of Toronto, Duke University and the Humber School of Writing. To register or to learn more about upcoming workshops at Riverwalk Commons and/or Terra Nova Nordic Spa & Café, email Kate at odysseyindigoccc@gmail.com with “Odyssey Indigo Writing Workshop registration” in the subject line. To see upcoming workshop schedules at both locations or elsewhere, visit the Odyssey Indigo website at www.odysseyindigo.com under the “About/ Workshops” tab.
Staff Contribution
Clocks spring forward at 2 a.m. this Sunday, March 8, and the St. Marys Fire Department is reminding residents to install fresh batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks.
This year, the fire department is partnering with Sunset Diner to help spread the message. In the accompanying photo, Fire Chief Phil West and Hilary Hughes of Sunset Diner are teaming up to remind residents that a quick safety check can make a lifesaving difference.
“Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can sense danger long before you can, but only if they are working properly,” said West in a press release. “When you change your clocks on March 8, take a few minutes to replace the batteries in all of your alarms and check the expiry dates. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms expire after 10 years and must be replaced
if they are past that date.”
Working alarms are required by law. Smoke alarms must be installed on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, smoke alarms are also recommended inside all bedrooms.
Carbon monoxide alarms must also be installed on every storey of the home, and outside all sleeping areas if the home contains a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or attached garage.
Most fatal fires occur at night when people are asleep. Working smoke alarms provide early warning, giving residents valuable time to escape safely.
Tampering with or removing the batteries from smoke or CO alarms is against the law and can result in a $360 ticket or fines of up to $50,000.
For more information about smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements, contact the St. Marys Fire Department at 519-284-1752 or visit www.townofstmarys.com/smokealarms.
It was great weather for the third annual Community Breakfast put on by the Kirkton-Woodham Optimist Club on Feb. 15 at the Kirkton-Woodham Community Centre. Proceeds are divided between the South Huron Hospital Foundation and the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation. Much of the food is donated by local organizations. Pictured here are Optimist members and volunteers hard at work in the kitchen and patrons being served by members and volunteers.
Independent Sports Reporter
The St. Marys DCVI Senior Girls Volleyball team captured the championship banner in the WOSSAA in an instant classic of a match against London Christian High (LCH) on Feb. 26.
Head coach Steve Chateauvert said the team’s three core principles were central to their victory and reached a peak of execution during their recent Huron-Perth playoff semi-final against St. Michael Catholic Secondary of Stratford.
“They really responded when they needed to most today,” said Chateauvert. “I remember, back in our first chat at the start of the year, the three things we talked about were energy, communication and no hesitation. We played St. Mike’s (on Feb. 20), and that was, I would say, the first time all season that all three of those things came together. We practiced (on Feb. 24 and 25), and they brought energy, communication and no hesitation again, and then they showed those three things again today.”
In a highly competitive match against a strong LCH squad, the Salukis went back and forth throughout the five-set match, dropping the first and third sets 25-16 and 25-21, while winning in the second by a score of 28-26. However, even in their few imperfect moments, Chateauvert credited the group for never losing their edge.
“They never stopped pushing today, and again, I think that’s something we learned in the game against St. Mike’s,” Chateauvert said. “It’s important to stay aggres-
sive, serve tough and hit the ball. We’re not going to beat good teams by tipping and volleying it over. They bought into that, and defensively, they were relentless.”
Chateauvert also noted the electric atmosphere in the DCVI gym helped the senior girls stay in the game.
“I think the homecourt advantage really played to our favour today,” Chateauvert said. “The crowd was awesome, so a big shout out to the St. Marys DCVI fans for really bringing it today. That was a lot of
fun.”
St. Marys managed to fight back in the fourth set and win by the largest deficit of any of the five sets, beating LCH 25-14 to force a fifth and deciding set. In the final set, the incredible match concluded with a dramatic 16-14 victory for DCVI, giving the Salukis the WOSSAA title.
Chateauvert credited all seven players who appeared on the court for playing a role in earning the championship banner.
“I was just really happy. It’s my last year with my daughter on the team, and so that
was really special, and Marin (Chateauvert) was a workhorse out there today,” said Steve Chateauvert. “All seven of the girls who were on the floor had moments where they did really good things that put us in a spot to win. Cortney (Linton) had some great serves. Katie (Namink) was all over the floor, setting and hitting.
“Libby (McCurdy) attacked the ball, served well and played phenomenal defence. Regan (Jones) had some nice quicks in the middle, and her serving percentage would have been the best on the team. Charlotte (Richardson) is just a clutch player defensively, and offensively, she hit some really good balls. Lena (Thompson) played phenomenal defence all match in the back court, digging up hard-hit balls and chasing down tips.”
Steve Chateauvert further remarked on how the team managed to fight through adversity and the pressure they faced, noting the group’s confidence has reached an all-time high.
“One of the things that was mentioned earlier this week at practice was confidence and just having confidence in your ability to get the job done. That St. Mike’s match was the first time I saw everyone dial it up and play with a boatload of confidence, and they never wavered from that today.
“I think that St. Mike’s match really showed them how they can play,” Steve Chateauvert continued. “At the end of that match, win or lose, they were putting themselves in a great spot because of how resilient they were and how well they played, and I think that set us up really well to do what we did today.”
SPENCER SEYMOUR
Independent Sports Reporter
The inconsistency and complacency plaguing the St. Marys Lincolns reached a tipping point after losing to the LaSalle Vipers on Feb. 25, prompting the Lincolns to finally get back on track in back-to-back games against the Stratford Warriors on Feb. 27 and the Listowel Cyclones on Feb. 28.
A second period that could generously be called decent was preceded and succeeded by pitiful first and third periods, resulting in the Vipers taking the 4-1 victory. Head coach Jeff Bradley offered no sugar-coating of his squad’s performance in LaSalle.
“I thought we were horrible,” said Bradley. “I didn’t think we were very good at all. We had no focus. We weren’t prepared for the game. It looked like we went out there to skate around and play some hockey with our buddies, and we paid for it. It all comes down to us. It comes to our players not focusing on what they need to do.”
On top of the struggles with their play, the Lincolns added yet another body to their injured reserve list with captain Chase MacQueen-Spence exiting the game in the second after a hit into the boards by Shawn Costello. MacQueen-Spence attempted to return to the game at the start of the third but only played one shift before leaving the game.
Likewise, after playing in LaSalle, defenceman Camden Kean was unable to play against Stratford and Listowel due to injury. MacQueen-Spence and Kean joined Declan Ready, Oliver Lacko and James MacGregor on the shelf.
However, Bradley is not allowing the rash of injuries to become an excuse.
“Nobody feels bad for us,” Bradley
said. “Points are points, whether you have your entire roster or not, and the rest of the players that are dressed, we’re grateful to Pat for providing those players to us because those players we do have are good enough to win a hockey game, but they didn’t do it (in LaSalle).”
Lincs all but lock in top-three spot with 3-1 win over Warriors
Against a Stratford Warriors squad that had a chance to tie the Lincolns for third in the west, the Lincolns finally got back to playing closer to the top of their game with a performance that Bradley was very pleased with.
“We had gone through a few weeks of just sleepwalking while we were playing and forgot what we were, so to try to get back to our best, that’s the goal, and I thought, considering the injuries and considering the time of the year, I thought it was a really good game for us. Our guys were ready to play. I think they had a proper warm-up. We just have to be ready. We can’t think we’re going to go on the ice and compete against these teams we’re playing if we aren’t focused and aren’t prepared to play.”
The Lincolns got the jump on the Warriors on the opening shift with several big hits in the first minute, including one by Jakob Drobny just seconds into the game. Bradley praised the five-man unit that started, setting the stage for the rest of the game.
“That’s who we want to be,” Bradley said. “We’re not sure that’s who we are, but I know that’s who we want to be. Jakob (Drobny), Owen (Kalp), Devun (Colebrook), Lincoln (Moore) and Callum (McAuley) started the game for us and set the tone, and the other guys followed after that. I really think our whole team was fantastic.”
Despite controlling much of the first
frame, the Warriors opened the scoring with a point shot by Drew Hodge deflecting off some traffic in front and bouncing under the pad of Colby Booth-Housego, who was otherwise perfect, making 22 saves and eventually earning player of the game honours.
The Lincolns continued to go unrewarded for their strong pressure until, with less than 12 seconds left in the second, Owen Voortman one-timed the puck over the arm of Warriors’ netminder Noah Bender. In the third, Devun Colebrook made a beautiful move to bury a goal just five seconds into a St. Marys powerplay. Moore added an insurance marker with under two and a half minutes left in regulation.
Lincs score second straight win over Cyclones
Just 24 hours later, the depleted Lincolns delivered another solid showing against a Perth County rival, downing Listowel by a score of 5-3.
“I thought we played well for the most part,” Bradley told the Independent. “I thought the first goal against was really unlucky, and the second goal against was a little bit unlucky as well. I think we responded every time we needed to respond, and we can’t afford to take our foot off the gas, not for the points but for where we want to get to between the ears, and I thought we did a pretty good job of that.”
The line of Colebrook, Moore and McAuley delivered an especially strong showing, which Bradley noted is what the team needs from them.
“They need to be leaders for us because they play a lot, and if they want to continue to eat those minutes, then they’re going to have to continue to contribute like that. A guy like Callum (McAuley); I don’t even talk to him that much because
there’s nothing to really correct. He’s just a fantastic player.”
After going up 2-0 in the first period with goals by Colebrook and Voortman, the Cylclones got a pair of fortunate bounces to tie the game at two apiece. However, Moore fired a go-ahead goal before the end of the opening stanza.
Keaton Middleton fired the only goal of the second to tie the game at three apiece.
In the third, affiliate player Hudsyn Chaput one-timed a feed from McAuley past Cyclones’ goalie Jack Bree for his first Greater Ontario Hockey League (GOHL) goal, which held up as the eventual game-winner. Blake Elzinga added an insurance marker, while Brogan Colquhoun picked up the 28-save win between the pipes.
The five injuries have resulted in the Lincolns calling up blueliner Tyson Cartier as well as forwards Hudsyn and Maddyx Chaput, who Bradley credited for their contributions and level-headed play amidst a challenging moment to step into.
“It’s great for Hudsyn, and (Cartier, Hudsyn and Maddyx Chaput) understand what this experience is and that we’re injured right now, and they’re trying to soak up some junior experience. I think it’s valuable because they’re coming in at a time when it’s a trying time. They’re not coming into a team that’s coasting right now. They’re learning and being put under a little bit of pressure to perform.
“They’re experiencing practices that maybe aren’t as fun as what they might have imagined junior hockey would be, but I think that’s good character building and good experience building for them,” Bradley continued. “When they go into their first year of junior hockey next year, there won’t be as much of a learning curve.”
The Stonetown Electric U9 LL Boys Red St. Marys Rock left the Stoney Creek Family Day Hometown Winterfest tournament Feb. 13-15 with the silver medals.
Head coach Sherry Garrett told the Independent the team stayed engaged the entire weekend.
“The energy the boys brought stood out to me,” said Garrett. “They were there to win, and it was clear they were ready to work and have some fun while doing it. Unfortunately, we came up short (in the final), but the boys never gave up. It was really great hockey. The score was up and down, and after taking a penalty late in the third, we gave Ingersoll a two-goal lead, making it just out of our reach. But again, the boys played to the end, which I was really proud of.”
According to Garrett, getting to the gold-medal game was a major milestone for the team.
“Getting into the finals as the underdogs was empowering to this group,” Garrett said. “They know we believe in them, and I think they are really starting to believe in themselves. The energy these boys brought was impossible to miss. From warmups to the dressing room to during the games and back at the hotel, they were all in. They were proud and excited to represent St. Marys at this tournament.
“Of course, there was some heartbreak leaving without the gold medal, but I think this is only going to push the boys harder.”
to keep the score in the final game close.”
Garrett further explained how some of the squad’s biggest developments have come in the defensive end of the ice, and specifically, how they’re breaking the puck out of their zone.
“We’ve been working really hard on defensive zone breakouts, and it definitely worked for us this weekend. Most of the team has only just learned the breakout this year, so just implementing something new from practices into a game is so great to see. The defence trusting that the forwards will be there at the hashmarks or along the boards to receive the puck and then carrying it up the ice to the offensive zone was great. Similarly, the forwards being patient and knowing that the defence will get them that puck was excellent.”
When reflecting on the silver medal, Garrett said it was a sign of how close the team has become over the course of this season.
Feb. 25, 2026
After going through the three-game round-robin with two wins and one loss, the Rock met the Ingersoll Express in the championship contest. Though St. Marys fell 4-2 in the finals, Garrett explained there was no shortage of great performances throughout the tournament.
“Parker (Hammond) was our leading goal scorer. He’s been working so hard on his shooting this year, and it shows. We have some really solid forwards who know how to take the puck to the net and also backcheck hard. At one point, Park-
er ripped a hard shot from the corner and Luuk (Essing) capitalized on a rebound for his first big goal.
“We have a really impressive defence core that is continuously improving,” Garrett continued. “Griffin (Queen) was irreplaceable playing defence, and all of our defenders used their speed and physical strength, barely allowing shots on net. Our goalie, Oliver (Shuglo), showed up for us with two shutouts to start the tournament. He was on top of his game and continued to make some huge saves
“I think the way our team has come together is paramount,” said Garrett. “We do have a small crew that goes to school together, but the rest are all new to each other. Learning who we are off the ice only allows for stronger experiences on the ice. Figuring out who’s who and what they’re each about, including strengths and weaknesses, has really helped them to grow as a team. Spending time together off the ice has definitely strengthened their bond. They’re invested in one another and want to do well, not only for themselves, but for each other too.”
A dressing room tour was given to Lincolns’
Jason Martin, Bill Byers, Paul Vanderspank, Brian Dundas and Pat Payton.
Former Lincolns’ defenceman Scott Driscoll (1985-89) signs the registration sheet last Saturday night at the PRC during Lincs’ Alumni Night. Looking on are Alumni committee members Brian Dundas and Rick Fifield, right. A memorabilia display was also set up in the End Zone room. The Lincs are hoping the Alumni Night will become an annual event.
and Theresa Sweep
tournament organizers Sophie
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which honours Bill, a very dedicated bowler who bowled six days a week, and joked he “would bowl seven days a week if he could get away with bowling on ladies’ night.” The tournament was a scotch doubles strike-13 format with a bowler paired with a different non-bowler over four games, and $915 was raised for the YBC program. Rory Brockman finished first in the bowler class with 849 points, while Heard took first in the non-bowler class with 852 points. Fares finished with 825 points to take second in the bowler class, and Louwagie placed second in the non-bowlers with 784 points. Helen Brockman finished third in the bowler class with 822 points, while Sweep took third in the non-bowler class, scoring 769 points. Helen and Dylan Johns had the highest score in the first game at 239. Fares and Sweep teamed up for the top score of 224 in the second game. In the third game, Helen and Chris Burgard finished first at a score of 244. The fourth game saw Heard and Scott Fairbrother take the top spot after scoring 239. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
The next Community Liaison Committee Meeting will be held on Friday, March 6th at 10am at the St. Marys Municipal Operations Center. Members of the public who wish to observe are welcome to attend.
Residents who wish to speak in front of the Committee may submit a detailed request in writing to the Committee. The request will be considered by the Committee and approved prior to the meeting. Please submit all requests, questions, and concerns for the meeting to kara.pelissero@vcimentos.com by Wednesday, March 4th at 10am.
We’re building the first small modular reactors in the G7 and first large scale nuclear facilities in 30 years.
That’s how we protect Ontario.
Wednesday, Feb. 25, was Pink Shirt Day, an annual event created to acknowledge and put a stop to bullying. Pink Shirt Day was originally started by two Grade 12 students from Nova Scotia who distributed pink shirts after a Grade 9 student was bullied for wearing a pink polo shirt. It is a day for people to wear pink, and in some locations, infor mation events are hosted that talk about the effects of bullying and how it can be
All applicants must hold the following qualifications:
• Current Certification of National Lifeguard Service (NLS)
• Current Certification in Standard First Aid and C.P.R.
• Experience working with children
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
If interested, please forward your resume to: Email: thebakers@happyhills.com Or call if you have any questions: 519-475-4471
Members of the St. Marys Kinettes presented cheques to the organizations that benefitted from the club’s recent Fill the Fridge Draw at their monthly meeting last week.
The St. Marys Kinette Club held their monthly meeting Feb. 25. Coming off the high of a successful project, the club invited some recipients of their donations from the Fill the Fridge Draw to the meeting and gave each organization some time on the agenda to share what was new and exciting with them. On hand to receive cheques from funds raised was St. Marys Minor Hockey, St. Marys Minor Soccer, Friends of the St. Marys Public Library, St. Marys Ringette and the Teddy Bear Picnic. Other local recipients, including the Salvation Army and St. Marys Minor Baseball, could not attend.
Katharine Found, president of St. Marys Minor Hockey, talked to the club about our town’s hockey organization and how the donation will come in handy with items like training for coaches, as well as the importance of volunteers. Nathan Brown, president of St. Marys Minor Soccer, spoke next about the soccer club and the different levels available with the newest being as young as U3.
Steve Walsh was the representative from Friends of the Library. Thanking the club, he talked about the importance of the library and the recent commitment by the organization towards the Community Commons at 14 Church Street. Next up was Laurie McCutcheon, secretary, and Rebecca Taylor, vice president, of St. Marys Ringette Snipers Club. McCutcheon’s daughters,
Mary and Suzie, shared what they love most about ringette. Both commented how much they love the game and being able to play with friends.
Marlene Forman, organizer of the Teddy Bear Picnic, spoke on what is involved in pulling the event together, including the event’s annual costs and how much she appreciates the donation.
The St. Marys Kinette Club is also donating to the Salvation Army in St. Marys and to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, which has partnered with Kin Clubs since 1964.
Funds will also go towards the annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsoring a March Break swim, a community dinner and the DCVI Wendy Richardson Memorial Award in the weeks ahead.
The winners were drawn on Feb. 14 by Erin Leaman at Broken Rail Brewery and were announced in last week’s Independent.
Also at Wednesday’s meeting, the Kinette Club welcomed two new members, Sue Griffiths and Erin Parsons.
TETIANA DIDKOVSKA
Independent Columnist
On Feb. 24, the world marked four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This date is more than a remembrance of the war’s beginning –it stands as a powerful symbol of endurance, unity and the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people.
Four years of resistance. Four years of profound loss and sacrifice. Yet also four years of extraordinary courage and global solidarity.
Across Europe and around the world, governments and communities continue to demonstrate their support for Ukraine. Public buildings are illuminated in blue and yellow. Commemorative gatherings are held. New sanctions against the Russian Federation are introduced. These actions are not merely symbolic – they affirm a shared commitment to democracy, sovereignty and human dignity.
Canada remains one of Ukraine’s strongest and most steadfast allies. From the earliest days of the invasion, Canada has provided military assistance, humanitarian aid, financial support and training for Ukrainian service members. Through sanctions and diplomatic leadership, Canada has taken a clear stand in defense of international law and freedom.
In 2025, the Province of Ontario officially proclaimed September as Ukrainian Heritage Month – a meaningful recog-
nition of the rich cultural legacy and significant contributions Ukrainians bring to Canadian society. This declaration reflects not only solidarity during wartime, but a lasting appreciation of the Ukrainian community as part of Canada’s diverse and vibrant identity.
For many Ukrainians who arrived in Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, however, the most transformative support did not come solely from policies or institutions. It came from people.
Thousands of Ukrainians reached Canada after Feb. 24, 2022, carrying little more than a suitcase. Many were urgently evacuated from regions under occupation. They left behind homes, careers, documents, treasured possessions and the familiar rhythms of daily life. Some lost everything. The trauma of war – the fear, uncertainty and grief – traveled with them.
In that fragile state, Ukrainians began the difficult process of rebuilding their lives in a new country. And it was here that Canadians demonstrated extraordinary compassion.
Families opened their homes to strangers. Volunteers helped newcomers complete paperwork, secure housing, search for employment and enroll children in schools. Community members donated clothing, furniture and essential supplies. They offered guidance on Canadian customs and patiently supported those still learning English. More than
anything, they offered kindness. That kindness restored hope – hope that children could feel safe again, hope that families could rebuild stability, hope that tomorrow might bring healing instead of fear.
To our Canadian friends, we are deeply grateful. Your generosity extended far beyond material assistance. You offered reassurance during moments of despair. You showed empathy when words were difficult. You reminded us that humanity and goodness endure, even in times shaped by violence.
Today, Ukrainians across Canada are working, studying, volunteering and contributing actively to their communities. Cultural organizations, schools and community associations continue to preserve Ukrainian language and traditions while strengthening ties within Canadian society. Ukrainians are integrating, building businesses, supporting local initiatives and, at the same time, continuing to stand with Ukraine from afar. Four years of war have taught us that resilience is sustained through solidarity. Ukraine’s strength is reinforced by friends who believe in justice and peace. Canada’s support – both institutional and personal – has helped Ukrainians remain steadfast on every front: humanitarian, cultural and emotional.
Feb. 24 is a day of remembrance. We honour those who have given their lives. We mourn what has been lost. But it is also a day that affirms hope and de-
LAURA MCASH
St. Marys Public Library
“Wills and Estate Planning with Mark Poulton” is the next offering in our Learning for Life: Life Planning series. Join us Monday, March 23 in the Main Hall of the Friendship Centre at 6:00 p.m. for a presentation by Mark Poulton, practicing lawyer at Waghorn, Stephens, Sipos & Poulton. He will address important topics including wills, estate planning, and power of attorney. Bring your questions for what is sure to be an informative talk. To register for this free program, please
visit the following link: tinyurl.com/ Wills-and-Estate-Planning. Up This Week Fri., March 6: Open 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sat., March 7: Dungeons & Dragons (10 a.m.)
Mon., March 9: Learn to Play Bridge (1:30-3 p.m.)
Tues., March 10: Write of Way (6:30 p.m.)
Wed., March. 11: EarlyON Play & Read (9:30-10:30 a.m.), Mahjong (1-4 p.m.)
Thurs., March 12: Open 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
termination.
Ukraine continues to stand.
Ukraine continues to live.
And together with our Canadi-
an friends, we remain unbreakable.
Glory to Canada! Glory to Ukraine!
Every year, usually a few weeks before Christmas, Stonetown Arts holds an exhibition of the work of the St. Marys and area artists who are members of this group. Recently the venue has been the beautiful space in Riverwalk Commons on Water Street South. It is a delight to visit the exhibition and to marvel at the talented people in our community. Most of the art is for sale and so there is also the opportunity to buy some wonderful, one-of-a-kind presents.
There is a long tradition of artists and exhibitions in St. Marys. Last week’s Historic St. Marys column described a travelling exhibition of Canadian art that came to town in 1930. From the very early years of this community, there have been artists and art instructors. For example, in the 1880s, John Gray who was also a photographer, offered drawing and painting classes in his studio. The Mechanics Institute sponsored these classes and awarded certificates and prizes to students who completed the course and showed their works. By the 1890s, there were several people in St. Marys who considered themselves professional artists. To make a living, they not only painted but also offered lessons to individual students. But for these artists and their students to be appreciated, they had to show what they had accomplished.
There were limited local opportunities. One was the annual fall fair, held under the auspices of the South Perth Agricultural Society. In the building that held exhibits of just about everything – poultry, fruits and vegetables, baking, preserves, children’s crafts, merchandise from local stores – there was a corner for “Fine Arts.” Prizes were awarded to both professional and amateur artists in categories that included Still Life, Marine View, and Portraits. There were also categories for photography and glass and china painting. But the fair only had space to exhibit a sample of the creative work produced in this area. The Agricultural Society directors felt there was potential to expand this component, not only to exhibit pictures but to show much more. When the 1898 fair had ended, this notice appeared in the St. Marys Journal: “The directors intend holding an art exhibit this fall in the town with night sessions, lasting a week. Collections of curiosities, Indian relics, paintings, etc., will be on exhibit.”
This ambitious project took time to organize. In the November 17 edition of the Journal, a short item explained: “Owing to the Town Hall being engaged for Thanksgiving night, the dates for the Art Loan Exhibition have been changed to begin on Monday, November 28th, and continue till December 3rd. All arrangements are being completed for the collection of a large number of valuable works of art and curios that will be well worth the attention of the public. An attractive programme of entertainment will be given every night. Admission 10 cents.” (In 1898, Canadians celebrated Thanksgiving in November.) This event appealed
to a reporter from the St. Marys Journal who made sure to visit regularly. He prepared a lengthy account that appeared in the weekly newspaper on Thursday, December 1, 1898 – the fourth day of the exhibition.
The reporter was certainly impressed. He explained that not only were paintings being exhibited but also “the finest collection ever seen in the town of St. Marys” of coins, Indian relics, stuffed birds, curios, rare and costly china, and “a thousand and one oddities from the days of our grandmothers.” The St. Marys Museum owns a copy of a small, 12-page catalogue that the print shop at the Journal assembled as an exhibition guide and souvenir. Although the list of exhibitors seems randomly thrown together, the number of entries is impressive. Altogether, there were 25 artists from St. Marys and area who entered paintings. The event was called “Art Loan” because some paintings on display belonged to private collectors. But many more paintings were for sale by the artists, and the catalogue listed their asking prices. Although most artists entered only one or two pictures, five prominent artists had among them more than 60 paintings in the exhibition. These were the professionals, hoping that this exhibition would be profitable.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, Sunday, March 8, 2026, it is worth noting that two of these professional artists were strong, local women whose lives were dedicated to producing and teaching art. Rachel Amanda Morphy, born in 1847, had lived all her life in St. Marys. By the time of the 1898 exhibition, she was in her early 50s and well established as both an artist and an art teacher. She was an independent woman who owned a house on Station Street where she offered instruction in oil paintings and pastels. The Journal described her exhibition entries: “Miss Morphy’s exhibit of pictures is very fine and includes ‘The Kindly Fruits of the Earth,’ ‘Viola,’ and ‘Old Carrol Homestead.’ This sketch has been
Moscrip, a tinsmith, died in 1854, leaving her mother, Margaret, with six children under the age of ten. As soon as they were old enough, the children worked to help support the family. Mary and two of her sisters became schoolteachers and her brother, William Caven Moscrip, studied law. Mary Moscrip was concerned about the children of poor families in St. Marys who couldn’t attend school regularly. She taught them basic reading and writing as well as religious studies in a special Sunday School at the Presbyterian Church, outside her other teaching duties. She was a serious artist, painting “from life,” and improving her skills by copying great works of art. She entered her work in many competitions and won medals in exhibitions as far away as Hamilton and Toronto. In the 1891 census, she listed herself as an “artist, painter in oils.”
enlarged by an eminent artist in Toronto who considers it very fine.” R. A. Morphy was selling most of her pictures for between $5 and $25.
R. A. Morphy had also encouraged her students to show their pictures and the Journal reported that “Miss Morphy’s pupils make good exhibits.” They included original landscapes by Miss J. Beattie, and Merle Clifford who was only 12 years old. While most of Miss Morphy’s students were female, she was also the first professional artist to instruct William Greason, a student from a farm south of St. Marys. Greason went on to become a well-known professional artist and art teacher in Michigan. Although most of the paintings mentioned in the 1898 catalogue have vanished through the years, there are several of R. A. Morphy’s students’ pictures in the St. Marys Museum’s collection and one of her own pastel sketches.
Mary Douglas Moscrip was born in Galt, Ontario, in 1848 but her family had moved to St. Marys by the time of the 1851 census. Her father, Thomas
The 1898 exhibition catalogue lists 20 of Mary Moscrip’s pictures. Some were priced as high as $50 but many were not for sale. The reporter from the Journal praised Miss Moscrip’s work as “calling forth much admiration,” while the work of her students was “worthy of special attention and shows ability not only in the teacher but the pupils also. One picture was identified as “Opera House and Bridge” by Miss Donald. The picture with this week’s column may be the very one described in the catalogue. It is now in a local private collection and was used in 2019 as the cover for Rotary’s Historic St. Marys calendar. In 1899, William Moscrip, Mary’s brother, by this time a lawyer, was appointed clerk of county court in Stratford. Mary, her mother, and a younger sister followed him there and, according to the 1901 census, she found work as a “copyist.” She continued both to paint and to teach art.
The art loan exhibition proved so popular in St. Marys that its organizers decided to extend it an extra week until December 10, 1898. The reporter for the Journal also needed the following week to continue his description of all the paintings and collections of oddities. Because there is a great deal more to say about this 1898 event, this column also will be continued next week.
The setting could not have been more pleasant. We were seated with some friends at a table in front of a tapas restaurant, a short walk from the impressive Seville Cathedral. We were sampling terrific local tastes, nicely complemented by a jug of sangria. Perhaps two jugs.
And then, within minutes of our being seated, a group of musicians wandered by, played for about 45 seconds, and then rather aggressively passed the hat among all of us partaking in al fresco lunches. Cute, we thought.
Except, perhaps four minutes later, another performing group did the same thing. And then another. Singers, drummers, jugglers and finally some rather talented acrobats. Between donating yet again, or trying to ignore the proffered collection hat, we barely had opportunity to eat!
So, am I knocking Spain’s fifth-largest city, the capital of the beautiful southern Andalusia region? No. We enjoyed our visit to Seville. It just seems like everything here is kicked up a few intense notches from the more laid-back atmosphere
we encountered in the communities we visited during our Senior Discovery Tours stay on the Costa del Sol.
For example: the cathedral, itself. The Seville Cathedral is overwhelming. It’s the largest gothic cathedral in the world, and the third largest church after only St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and St. Paul’s in London, England.
The church’s history dates back before the actual founding of the church – and if that seems confusing, it’s because of the rich history of this region of Spain, which was once ruled by the Moors, who were Moslem. So, the cathedral actually includes elements of the mosque that was built in the 1100s. After the Moors were defeated, construction of the cathedral was begun around 1401 and, as was typical of such grand projects, building continued for more than a century. The cathedral’s belltower, known as the Giralda, was originally the minaret of the mosque.
Today, the cathedral (officially the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See), and the Moorish palace known as the Alcázar, are part of the historic centre of Seville, all designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Back to the cathedral itself; it’s ornate, rich, full of art and stained glass. The Chapter House – where the monks and clergy once held meetings and heard readings from Scripture and the rule of St. Benedict – is lavishly decorated.
But perhaps the most striking thing in the Cathedral is an enormous tomb, which bears
a plaque that reads, “Tomb of Christopher Colón; Remains with historical certainty (exhumation carried out in 2003).”
This is the impressive resting place of Christopher Columbus and therein lies a story. Columbus died in 1506 in Valladolid, Spain, the site of his original grave. But because of his important role in Spain’s history, his body was soon moved to Seville. But it did not stay there. In 1542, Columbus’ remains followed the route of his own nautical adventures – it was taken by ship to what is now the Dominican Republic and interred in the Cathedral of Santa Maria.
But in 1795, when Spain lost control of the Dominican Republic, Columbus’ remains were again on the move, this time to Havana, Cuba. There, he was re-buried in a very impressive tomb, and there he rested for about a century until 1899, when not only Columbus’ remains, but also the entire elaborate tomb, was transported to Seville, and installed in the cathedral.
But the story doesn’t end there. Some people argue Columbus’ body never left the Dominican Republic, and even today, a box with an inscription indicating it contains Columbus’ remains can be found on that island.
So, the Spanish authorities decided to answer the question once and for all. In 2003, Columbus’ remains were again disturbed, DNA testing was carried out and it was conclusively proven that the explorer was, indeed, now resident in the Seville Cathedral.
It must be noted that when you visit the cathedral, and Co-
lumbus’ tomb in particular, he is lauded in a very politically incorrect manner. There is no hint that Columbus did not “discover” anything, because the Americas were already well populated by people, nor that his work led to the horrors of colonialization. It felt like we were back in the day when our knowledge of this bit of history was contained in the jingle, “In fourteen hundred ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue.” Turns out, the story is a lot more complicated than that.
There is much more to see in this city that attracts several million visitors a year. One rather unusual site is “Spain Square,” an impressive sprawling architectural gem, complete with fountains and canals. You would swear that it dates back centu-
ries, but the whole thing was actually created in 1928 as the site of the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, an event hosted by Spain. It was probably an attempt on the part of Spain to assert its role among all of the Spanish-speaking countries that were once colonies of Spain. I love the fact that it was used as a location for both a Star Wars movie and a Simply Red music video. I wonder what Christopher Columbus would think of Obi-Wan Kenobi or Mick Hucknall.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and Past-President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@golden.net.
The wonder of Mother Nature is prevalent throughout the year, but it is especially welcomed after a long cold winter, with the awakening of spring. Tis the season of Her sweet goodness that flows in the hardwood forests of our native maples.
Maple syrup, the sweet goodness, stems from a tapestry of culture woven with Indigenous tradition, French, British and modern influences that has evolved from a vital survival food into a global industry. The history of maple syrup is as old as Canada itself with legends on how our Indigenous people discovered the clear sap of the maple tree and recognizing it as a source of energy and nutrition to ward off late winter hunger. Ear-
ly settlers’ diaries confirm Indigenous knowledge and teachings proved vital to them as well. They adapted tapping methods, using metal spouts and large kettles for boiling the sap. Over time, the process of maple syrup evolved from small family operations to commercial businesses, especially in Quebec.
According to Canada Agriculture (agr.gc.ca), Canada dominates 75% of the world’s maple syrup production, of which in 2025, Quebec produced 18.9 million gallons, 92% of the Canadian production, followed by New Brunswick, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. Canada exports approximately 8.4 million gallons of maple products, primarily to United States, Germany, Japan, and the UK.
The quality of maple syrup depends on the source. There are three predominant species of maple trees used to produce maple syrup in Canada. Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) offers the highest concentration of sugar in its sap with these trees found in the hardwood forests of Ontario and eastern Canada. Black Maple (Acer nigrum) is similar to the sugar maple in quality and grow mainly in southern Ontar-
io. Red Maple (Acer rubrum) is frequently tapped, especially in eastern Canada. During winter, maple trees store starch in their roots. As they wake up in mid- to late-February, they convert this starch into sugar (the sap) and transport it up to the branches and buds to fuel new growth foliage development. Cold nights create suction that draws water from the soil up into the root, recharging the tree’s water supply. On warm sunny days after freezing night temperatures, the sapwood warms, gases expand creating positive pressure within the wood which produces the sap flow down from the maple tree branches. It also can flow back and forth laterally within the tree. The internal pressure of the tree, when it is greater than the atmospheric pressure causes the sap to flow out of holes drilled in the tree or a cut branch. This is much like the way blood flows out of a cut we may get. Once the temperatures stay above freezing and leaf buds appear, the maple syrup season is over. Not all maple trees can or should be tapped. And just like humans need to be a certain age to give blood, maple trees need
to be mature before sap can be harvested without harming the tree.
Before tapping a maple tree, it is important to consider the tree’s size and health. The recommended minimum diameter for tapping is 25 centimetres, measured at a height of 1.5 metres above the ground. Trees with diameters between 25 and 50 centimetres should have no more than one tap installed. If a tree’s
diameter falls between 50 and 65 centimetres, it is acceptable to insert a second tap. However, no tree should ever have more than three taps in total. Trees that are in good condition, with healthy crowns that extend down toward the ground, are generally the most productive when it comes to sap yield. Spring gives us lots to look forward to; one of which is the maple tree’s sweet goodness.
As much as we hide it, and our society avoids it, we know grief exists. It is a universal experience I believe everyone has experienced in some way – animals too! Though we most often hear of grief as being associated with death losses, and it very much is, the reality is grief extends beyond death. A divorce, move, career change, infertility,
diagnosis, loss of relationship, transition with kids and family; all of these are examples of losses, transitions and changes that will likely, in some way, be grieved.
Grief is the experience of adjusting to a loss or change, a transition or adaptation to a “new world,” different from the one we once knew, and perhaps, the one we assumed would never change. Grief can also result from hopes and dreams not coming true.
Both death and non-death losses are definitely not easy. You may often feel sad and be reminded of what or who it is you’re missing, yet you’re met with people who try to cheer you up, avoid bringing up the elephant in the room or, worst yet, avoid you all together. They’re often well-meaning, but their reactions build an isolated expe-
rience of grief.
The thing about death losses is they often have ritual and support that is organized, planned and expected in a different way that non-death losses do. The hardest part of grieving these non-death losses is they are often not recognized by society as being a valid experience of loss and being deserving of our grief and coinciding emotions.
As a grief counsellor, I would say the most important part of journeying through grief (no matter the loss) is recognizing the loss, naming it and feeling validation for what you are experiencing. This really does not bode well in our society where we instead avoid our feelings and often the feelings of others, hide from grief and minimize so many losses as not being valid or deserving of our responding emotions.
If you are able to recognize what you are experiencing is grief, there are opportunities for validation that your feelings are true, worthy and most definitely suck! Humans (well, most) inherently value connection, and by feeling validated and supported, we are able to recognize our experiences and emotions as unique yet universal. Though it can definitely feel lonely, we surely are not the only ones grieving.
The main thing is we need to find healthy ways to cope and seek support and validation.
Talking with people who “get it,” peer groups, friends and counsellors can be a healthy resource when experiencing grief.
If you’re the one grieving, it is important to know that helpful and validating social support (professional or informal) is often the best way to balance out
the loneliness highlighted by our often grief-avoidant society.
If you are the one in the supporting seat, then it’s your turn to listen without stepping in to “cheer up,” instead offering your validation and support, and then following through with that offer.
Grief is tough on the support person or the griever, but identifying it and recognizing it is hard instead of holding the “buck up” attitude might be our best step forward.
Jaclyn Turpin is a social worker and the owner at Rural Refresh, a counselling agency serving St. Marys and area. She is committed to counselling folks experiencing grief because everyone deserves validation and an opportunity to feel supported.
What can be cracked, made, told, and played? A joke.
Why can’t your nose be 12 inches long? Because then it would be a foot.
What word is spelled incorrectly in every dictionary? Incorrectly.
Why did the student eat his homework? Because the teacher said it was a piece of cake.
Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field.
Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one.
Why did the banana go to the doctor? Because it wasn’t peeling well.
What has one head, one foot, and four legs? A bed.
Why did the computer go to the doctor? Because it had a virus.
What did one ocean say to the other ocean? Nothing, they just waved.
Why did the tomato turn red? Because it saw the salad dressing.
Why did the melon jump into the lake? It wanted to be a watermelon.
SPONSORED BY:
Adult Learning Programs of Perth, Upstairs at the St. Marys Public Library (700 Church Street North, St. Marys, ON) | Phone: 519.284.4408 | Cell: 226.374.8231 alearning@town.stmarys.on.ca | www.adultlearningperth.ca | Facebook: @AdultLearningProgramsofPerth
Seattle Seahawks
Bad Bunny
Nancy Guthrie
Gordie Howe Bridge
Tumbler Ridge
Cuba fuel blockade
Winter Olympics
Lindsey Vonn crash Curling controversy
Mikael Kingsbury
Megan Oldham
Womens Speed Skating
Steven Dubois
Mens Curling
USA hockey golds
El Mencho
Puerto Vallarta
Strikes on Iran
St. Marys Veterinary Clinic is pleased to be the sponsor of the
COULD SPRING BE BLOOMING AFTER A LONG AND SNOWY WINTER?
As the weather warms up, fleas and ticks become more active, posing risks of itching, infections, and serious diseases for your beloved pets. March is the perfect time to start your prevention plan. Call our knowledgeable staff today to discuss safe and effective flea and tick treatments. Keep your pets happy and healthy all season long!
Our pet of the week is 4.5 month old Ernie Parkinson. Ernie is a golden retreiver/ lab cross. He loves chasing after leaves blowing in the wind, eating and chasing his tail.
NANCY
As Thorndale continues to grow, facilities that provide space for various activities and community events have come under examination.
In November 2024, Thames Centre council established the Thorndale Lions Community Centre ad-hoc committee to develop a shovel-ready project for the potential future expansion of the Thorndale Lions Community Centre, using the surplus of funds raised by the community of Thorndale for the community centre. This committee consists of members of various Thorndale groups, Mayor Sharron McMillian, residents at large, and Coun. Tom Heeman as chair.
The purpose of this committee was later expanded to also include identifying improvements or renovations that can be made to the existing community centre for immediate results, along with developing a comprehensive design for the Thorndale Community Park.
Starting with their ideas and recommendations, the committee then invited local stakeholders and representatives from
community groups and organizations to a meeting in December 2025 to listen to their suggestions and input. The next step in the process was to hear from area residents to get their input. With that, an open house was organized last Wednesday evening, Feb. 25, for community residents to attend.
At this information open house meeting, three stations were set up with committee members available to discuss and receive feedback. For the existing community centre, input was solicited in order of priority for the following: improvements to the kitchen, acoustics and electrical connections in the gym, the facility’s maintenance, and expansion of municipal office space.
A second station featured information for a potential future expansion to the Thorndale Lions Community Centre which could incorporate a new hall or auditorium with a permanent stage, an expanded kitchen, additional parking and more storage space.
Station 3 included possible improvements or changes to the design layout of the Thorndale Community Park such as lighting on walking paths, fewer baseball
diamonds, additional parking, moving the horse paddock and improvements to the playground, splash pad and court facilities.
Besides the in-person discussion and the gathering of ideas and suggestions, a survey was available for the community to fill out which was due by March 2. Now, the Thorndale Lions Community Centre ad-hoc committee will finalize the recommendations received and will submit them to Thames Centre council for direction on how to proceed.
After 20 years as Thorndale’s postmaster, Jocelyne Rioux will retire on March 10.
She began working at the federal post office in Lambeth in 2000. In 2006, she had a choice between Port Stanley or Thorndale but chose Thorndale for its proximity to her London home and her mother, for whom she was a caregiver. After her mother’s passing in 2015, Rioux moved to Thorndale to make it her home.
outside near traffic, I asked a rural delivery worker to release it safely along her route. Her response was, ‘Well you’re the postmaster, so yes, I will do that.’
“That task certainly wasn’t part of my job description, but I’m happy it all worked out.”
Besides being a familiar smiling face at the customer counter, Rioux’s community participation reached out past the walls of the post office. She has demonstrated her acting skills at the Thorndale Dinner Theatre, where she assumed the lead roles in three productions over the years.
On Feb. 28, the curtain closed on the 20th annual
Dinner
The atmosphere at the end of this performance was
Though the cast and crew
sad farewells, as they have become like family, they were delighted with the overwhelming success of this year’s production.
The planning of such an ambitious project started last summer. Choosing the play, casting, building the set, weeks of rehearsals and transforming the Thorndale Lions Community Centre’s gym into a cozy theatre setting took dedication and thousands of hours of work by these community volunteers.
As well, the local groups and churches used their talents to provide delicious meals for the productions.
As postmaster at Thorndale Post Office, Rioux managed daily operations including secure mail processing and sorting, customer service at the front counter, transaction processing, staff supervision, financial recordkeeping and upkeep of cleanliness and safety.
Rioux recalled an unusual task at the Thorndale Post Office. One morning, she found a snake on the mat by the customer counter.
“I gently coaxed it into a jar,” recalled Rioux. “Not wanting to put it on the lawn
“As the community of Thorndale continues to grow, and even in this modern technical age, the Thorndale Post Office is busy,” Rioux said. “I am going to miss seeing our customers, who are the best in Canada, as far as I am concerned, and of course, the great people I work with. Even though I am retiring, I am not leaving this wonderful community as it is my home.
“Thinking back to when I came here 20 years ago, I am so glad I chose Thorndale.”
October 23, 1934 – February 21, 2026
The last of her generation, Florence passed away peacefully at Wildwood Care Centre, St. Marys on Saturday February 21 in her 92nd year. She is survived by her children Wendy (Brian) Anderson of Tavistock, Joan Heard (John) of Manotick and John (Barb) of Thorndale, her grandchildren Heather (Dennis) Peters and their children Hailey and Elliott, Amber Anderson, Alexander Anderson, Meg Julian (Mark) and their children Bruce and Ellen, Sarah Julian, Hillary (Steve) Morriss and their children Abbey, Jacob and Robyn and Melanie (Kyle) Harris and their children Kendall, Bronson and Corbyn. She was predeceased by her husband Raymond, her daughter-in-law Peggy Heard and all of Raymond’s immediate family. She was also pre-deceased by her sister Isabelle Thomson and her brother-in-law Clarence.
Florence was born and raised on a farm just outside Lieury in McGillvary Township, the second daughter of William and Elizabeth Armstrong. She married Raymond Heard in 1955 and they began their life as dairy farmers on the 4th line of Blanshard Township. Their family soon followed. She was very involved in her church, first at Anderson and then at Kirkton United Church, serving in many capacities on the UCW.
She was a 4-H homemaking club leader for many years and enjoyed following the accomplishments of her club members. She was a true partner in Kallabash Farms which enabled her to carry on the farm when Raymond died suddenly in 1976, leaving her with her family still in their teens. She retired to St. Marys in 1988 when John and Peggy were married and took over the farm. Throughout her life, Florence enjoyed crafts of many kinds, providing numerous hand knit mittens for her extended family into her 80’s. Her real passion was quilting and she was a founding member of quilt guilds in both Kirkton and St Marys. Her home was filled with many beautiful examples of her work.
She was a member of the St Marys Curling Club for many years and enjoyed golfing in the summer. Most of all, she travelled the local Seniors Card circuit and liked nothing better than a good game of euchre or pepper at the Friendship Centre. She followed the news of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their various activities with great interest, attending their events when she could.
She was a life-long Maple Leafs fan, hardly ever missed a Blue Jays game and was an avid spectator whenever the curling was on TV. We will remember Florence for her strength and independence in the face of adversity. She was a role model for us all and will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Wildwood Care Centre for the caring way they supported Mom in her time there. Family and friends are invited to the St. Marys United Church, 85 Church St. S. St. Marys, on March 6, 2026 for visiting from 10 am until the time of the Funeral Service at 11 am with interment in follow in St. Marys Cemetery.
Reception to follow in the St. Marys United Church Hall. Memorial donations may be made to the Perth County 4-H Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 73 Glencoe, ON N0L 1M0 or the St. Marys United Church, P.O. Box 542 St. Marys, ON N4X 1B3. Online tributes at www.hodgesfuneralhome.ca
Ron Kraemer, 90, of Mitchell passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at Seaforth Long Term Care on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Beloved husband of Nancy Kraemer. Dear father of Gordon Kraemer and Garnet Kraemer (Karen). Loving grandfather of Tyler (Vanessa), Stacy (Jake), Bret (Natasha), and Travis (Samantha). Cherished great grandfather of Noah, Brooklyn, Vincent, Nix, Kinsley, Kane, Kash, Kyla, Dawson and step great-grandchildren Levi and Piper. Dear brother of Betty Lou Norris. Predeceased by his parents Gordon and Harriet Kraemer, sister Ruth Bailie (Harvey), brothers-in-law Ivan Norris, Ross Parrott (Roxie) and sister-in-law Bernice Christie (Roger).
Ron attended SS #2 Fullarton (Munro), Mitchell District High School and Guelph Agricultural College ‘58 where he received a Bachelor of Agricultural Science Degree. He continued his education at the University of Toronto where he received his Bachelor of Applied Science as a Mechanical Engineer. Upon graduation, he was employed by International Harvester Hamilton Works designing farm and industrial equipment. In 1968 he decided to return to the family farm which he and Nancy had purchased in 1966, where he could use his mechanical skills on his own machines. One of his creations was a marker to mount on his tractor for scuffling beans. Sandy the local blacksmith would help construct Ron’s designs.
Ron was involved in community and church activities. He was a member of Thamesview United Church where he served as a Sunday School Superintendent, Elder, AOTS Men’s Club member, chair of Canadian Foodgrains Bank Growing Project for 15 years, chair of Munro Cemetery Board for 20 years, member of Tudor Lodge 141 A.F & A.M. where he served as Master in 1976. He was also involved with the Mitchell Curling Club and Mitchell Pioneer and Hobby Club. He coached the Fullarton midget softball team from 1973 to 1985 and had success winning tournaments and WOAA championships over the years. One of his cherished awards was in 2015, where Ron and his wife Nancy were chosen as citizens of the year by the Rotary Club for West Perth.
Friends will be received at the Lockhart Funeral Home, 109 Montreal St., Mitchell on Thursday, March 5 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and on Friday at 10:00 - 10:45 a.m. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow at the Lockhart Reception Centre. Spring interment at Bethel Munro Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Thamesview United Church, West Perth Growing Project or the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated and may be made at LockhartFuneralHome.com.
Ann Florence Coulthard (Harvey) was born at East General Hospital, Toronto and died February 25, 2026 at Jessica’s House Hospice in Exeter.
Ann is survived by her muchloved daughter Coralee Foster and her husband Dale, her two precious grandsons Darwin and his wife Jenna, and Alex and her beloved great grandson Hank. She was predeceased by her husband, Ron in 2022, her parents James Harvey in 1965 and Dorothea Harvey (Wicke) in 1981 and her sister Elga Nichol in 2011.
Mom moved many times as a young child but grew up in Kitchener and lived in the same house outside St. Marys for nearly 60 years. Ann was devoted to her daughter, her grandsons and her great grandson, enjoying them and revelling in their accomplishments. Her happiest times were spent with her grandsons, helping to nurture them when they were younger and appreciating their company as adults. Her most recent role as Granny to her little great grandson brought her so much joy. Friends were very important to Ann, who had a large number of friends, including many special, close friends from her years in the 1950’s in Kitchener. Ann loved to travel and as well as many Canadian destinations, she travelled extensively to many countries including favourites of China, Israel, Iceland, Great Britain and many others. One of her favourite events was a local hot air balloon ride over Kitchener with Ron. Ann and Ron and Coralee spent many happy summer holidays at Sauble Beach and more recently with Coralee and family at Berford Lake.
Anyone who knew Ann has been aware of her love of animals, especially her beloved pets through the years. Ann made friends with everyone’s dog or cat, who never forgot her and would joyously greet her whenever they would meet.
The Funeral Service was conducted at St. James Anglican Church, March 2, 2026. A video of the service can be viewed at www.hodgesfuneralhome.ca. Burial in St. Marys Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to your local Ontario SPCA, World Wildlife Fund, St. James Anglican Church, St. Marys Healthcare Foundation or Jessica’s House Hospice would be appreciated. Arrangements with the Andrew L. Hodges Funeral Home (519-284-2820).
Feb 22 - Lydia Puetz, Vancouver $50.00
Feb 23 - Matt Routenburg, Woodstock $50.00
Feb 24 - Deb Hoy, Wallaceburg $50.00
Feb 25 - Ellyse McCarthy, St. Marys $50.00
Feb 26 - Roy Jacobs, Toronto $50.00
Feb 27 - Zack & Bri Dunsmore, Mitchell $50.00
Feb 28 - Jeff Orr, Stratford $200.00
If
Donald Ernest Rudd - March 8, 2010
Marion Lou (Meadows) Rudd - May 15, 2021
Along the road of suffering, You found a little lane. That took you up to Heaven, and ended all your pain. You may be out of sight, we may be worlds apart.
But you are always in my thoughts, And forever in my heart.
Your loving daughter, Bonnie Lynn
The
The
I would like to thank everyone for your gifts, cards, and kind words. You have made my retirement from the Salvation Army so special.
Thank you, Sharon
You're Invited!! Come Out and Enjoy!!
10th at
Speaker: Janis Harris Topic: Seasonal Floral Design
All collectibles including sports cards, beanie babies, Funko pops and stamps. Highest prices paid. Free appraisals.Are you downsizing or need an estate clean out? We can help. Call or text Stan anytime 519-868-3814.
I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi or any pop company. Brewery items - Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, wristwatches, pocket watches, old fruit jars - Beaver Star, Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and signs - Red Indian, Supertest etc. Any small furniture. If you are moving or cleaning out stuff please contact me at 519-570-6920.
Hundreds of shade trees, fruit trees, apples, pears, peaches, plums, sweet and sour cherries, apricots, nectarines, blueberries, haskapp grapes, raspberries, elderberries etc. Lots of spruce, pine, cedars for windbreak and privacy hedges. Sizes 1-8 ft. in containers ready to go. Flowering shrubs and much more. Mon-Sat 7:00am to 6:00pm. Martin’s Nursery, 42661 Orangehill Rd Wroxeter, ON N0G 2X0 (1 Conc. North of Wroexter on Belmore Line)
We are moving! Everything must go! Two-year old queen bed set. Brand new AC window unit. Two-drawer storage unit for kitchen. Pyrex casserole dishes. Quilts, bedding, towels. Large dog crate. Computer Desk. Many kitchen items and so much more. Call 226-261-3660 or email revjanet.jollylockyer@yahoo.ca
or email us at info@stmarysindependent.com
SPONSORED BY: McDonald’s St. Marys 752 Queen St. E., St. Marys Founding and Forever partner of Ronald McDonald House
PRC & Friendship Centre events – See the Stonetown Crier on Page 5
St. Marys Public Library events – See Page 26
FRIDAY, MAR 6
- St. Marys Cement community liaison committee meeting at the MOC – 10 a.m.
- Royal Canadian Legion hot dog lunch at Noon
- A.N.A.F. meat draw – 6 p.m.
- St. Marys Lincolns vs Elmira Sugar Kings at the PRC – 7:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, MAR 7
- Indoor yard sale at 256 Church St. S, main floor – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- McCully’s Hill Farm maple syrup festival (farm tours, pancake brunch) – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Royal Canadian Legion meat draw – 5 p.m.
SUNDAY, MAR 8
- McCully’s Hill Farm maple syrup festival (farm tours, pancake brunch) – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
MONDAY, MAR 9
- Community dinner at St. Marys United Church – 5 p.m., Sponsored by First Baptist Church
There was a time when small-town newspapers told the stories that mattered most: the people, the milestones, the challenges, and the triumphs of the community.
At Grant Haven Media, we’re proud to carry on that tradition. Our newspapers are built around truly local content. Written for the community, about the community, by the community.
From council decisions to community events, local businesses to local achievements, we believe every town deserves a strong, independent voice.
Restoring Small-Town Journalism, One Community at a Time.
TUESDAY, MAR 10
- Royal Canadian Legion buddy check coffee –10 a.m. to Noon
- St. Marys Horticultural Society meeting & seed exchange at the Legion hall – 7 p.m.
- St. Marys Legion cribbage – Starts 7 p.m. sharp
WEDNESDAY, MAR 11
- St. Marys Ministerial Lenton lunch & devotion at St. Marys United Church – 12:15 p.m.
- Friends of the Library social at the library –6:30-8 p.m.
THURSDAY, MAR 12
- A.N.A.F. sausage on a bun – 12-1:30 p.m.
AMY CUBBERLEY Independent Columnist
25 years ago (2001)
Two weeks ago, the St. Marys Agricultural Society went to St. Marys Town Council asking for financial help. Now they are turning to the community in an effort to raise enough funds to keep the St. Marys Fair, a 153-year tradition, alive and kicking. In recent years government grants to agricultural societies have dwindled.
Brad Selves of Fullarton recently won a 2001 Canada Summer Games contest. He came up with the winning design for the Summer Games medal. Selves’ winning design features a tree (symbolizing the Forest City) with 13 maple leaves representing Canada’s 10 provinces and 3 territories. The background shows the rolling hills of southwestern Ontario.
50 years ago (1976)
One St. Marys resident suffered an unusual wintertime accident this week. He sprained his thumb when he fell into his swimming pool. No, there wasn’t any water in the pool.
Severance proceedings are now said to be underway regarding the purchase recently by Canada Packer Shur-Gain division for thirty acres of land at the extreme south end of James Street, within the town limits. Another word is that one more industrial type of business is being pursued in the James Street area.
75 years ago (1951)
The mild weather these past two weeks has caused many skunks to start their nightly prowl in search of food. Many of the animals have fallen victims to motor traffic along country roadways.
John Webb, local lumber dealer and deer hunting enthusiast, has had the hides of the deer he had bagged last fall tanned into doeskin. The very pliable leather can be used to manufacture leather vests and linings for warm winter clothing.
100 years ago (1926)
There has been somewhat of a tonsilitis epidemic in town during the past month.
The first car of anthracite to be received by local dealers since the United States coal strike started arrived at O’Brien’s yard on Tuesday
The Ontario Good Roads Association, in annual session in Toronto last week, passed a resolution calling on the Government to pass legislation requiring all vehicular traffic on highways to carry lights.
SATURDAY, MARCH 7TH from 9am- 4pm
