Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette 041626

The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette

“We cannot live for ourselves. A thousand bers connect us.”

THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026

Salonen highlighted necessary changes to improve local politics

Wilmot Township Mayor Natasha Salonen delivered a State of the Township address at Puddicombe House in New Hamburg last week, in front of a crowd of about 100 area residents.

Salonen was introduced by Wilmot CEO Jeff Wilmer, and she quickly jumped into a conversation about how much the township has changed over the past three-plus years and how much municipal politics is transforming.

The Tavistock Braves are the 20252026 Provincial Junior Hockey League’s (PJHL) South Conference champions for the first time in team history.

Tavistock disposed of the Dundas Blues in five games following a 3-2 home-ice victory Saturday night in front of nearly 700 fans. Yann Raskin scored all three Braves goals, including the game-winner with four and a half minutes left in the second period.

man advantage as Tavistock went two for three on the powerplay. Jack Hodge, Evan Palubeski and Carter Arseneau picked up assists as the Braves outshot the Blues 47-28 in the game, and 227147 in the series.

“We're living through a period of significant change in how our institutions function and how people relate to them. Trust in those institutions is being challenged – in many cases, rightfully so. When systems evolve, when authority shifts and when the rules that govern decision-making begin to change, people start to question whether those systems will continue to work for them at all,” said the rookie politician and youngest mayor in Ontario.

She added there is a narrative that political change leads to trust being lost,

Two of Raskin’s goals came with the

Mayor Salonen calls for engagement in changing times

and as governance evolves, voices are disappearing.

“As authority shifts, this equates to individual participation no longer mattering in the way it once did. We are hearing this narrative every day in conversations about strong mayor powers, and in the reaction to last Thursday's announcement on regional chairs becoming appointed.”

Salonen said in her role as mayor, regional councillor and her work with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the Rural Ontario Municipalities Association (ROMA), questions are being asked about local decision-making.

“I find it concerning how quickly this narrative is accepted as a reality, that trust is already lost and that voice no longer matters, because when people begin to believe their voice no longer matters, they stop using it. When that happens, they don't just question the system, they begin to disengage.”

She added signs of disengagement include declining voter turnout, younger generations questioning whether their voices have a place in the system and a growing hesitation not only to lead, but to participate in government.

“This is where trust in institutions becomes not just a governance issue, but a societal one. And I struggle fundamentally with the interpretation that our voice is lost as these changes are happening. I think it misses what is required in these moments. And that's not disengagement or disgruntled frustration, but a deliberate work for rebuilding trust.”

Salonen said in moments like this, trust may erode, and at times, elected officials contribute to that erosion.

“I know I have. But precisely for that reason, its importance intensifies. And more critically, trust must be built and carefully nurtured with deliberate intent, not assumed because a system has existed for decades, not expected because it has worked in the past, but built through how we show up, how we engage and how we lead.”

She added trust is not preserved by

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avoiding difficult conversations, but is built by having them, by questioning decisions, by challenging ideas and by creating space, not just to agree, but to disagree, to test ideas, to push thinking and to still find alignment in values people share.

“When we lose that, when disagreement becomes division, when conversation becomes conflict and when participation becomes polarized, trust just doesn't weaken, it fractures. When trust fractures, institutions cannot function the way that they're intended to, and that is where the responsibility comes back into focus.”

Salonen explained rebuilding trust is not the responsibility of an institution alone. She said institutions are ultimately defined by the people who sustain them, who believe in them and who choose every day to make them work.

“It belongs to all of us in how we engage

with each other, how we participate in our communities and whether we choose to step forward or step back. If trust is going to be rebuilt, it won't be rebuilt in theory or simply by saying it exists. It will be rebuilt with communities like this one, and that has been the work here in Wilmot for the past few years.”

Members of Wilmot council haven’t always been aligned, and there have been legitimate disagreements and differences in perspective on how to move forward.

“I know that at times it created frustration, it created concern and in some cases, among residents, I know it challenged their confidence. But I want to be clear, this is not a failure of governance. This is governance because institutions are not abstract. They are made up of people with different experiences, different priorities and different ways of thinking about what the right path forward is.”

If there's one lesson Salonen has learned from the past few years, she said it's that rebuilding trust requires courage.

“The courage to make decisions in real time under scrutiny, knowing that everyone will not agree, but believing that the process will make us stronger. And that is what has allowed us, over time, to begin to stabilize Wilmot, to begin to rebuild and to begin to put in place the foundations that were needed.”

She added rebuilding trust in the community includes improved finances, an issue that has dominated this term since each rookie member of council was elected nearly four years ago.

“Since this term of council, we have continued to question and explore exactly what is going on with our finances. And this came to a head … with the 2025 draft

budget. Over the past year, and in part through using tools available to us, including strong mayor powers with deliberate restraint, we took a hard look at our financial health as a township.”

Salonen said for far too long, Wilmot’s budgets did not fully reflect the true cost of the services people rely on and that we're delivering. She explained when that happens, the impact does not disappear. It builds quietly over time until eventually it affects financial stability and confidence in the institution itself.

“So, we've decided to reset, to step back and rebuild our financial foundation properly. Working alongside staff, I brought in KPMG to rebuild the budget from the ground up, and we engaged council from the start of this process.”

Salonen said at the end of the day, what sustains a place like Wilmot is not just the decisions council makes, but how they are made and whether people feel they are a part of the process.

“We're living in a time where trust in institutions is being questioned, where systems are changing, authority is shifting and people are asking whether those systems will continue to work for them. But what this past year and a few years have shown here in Wilmot is something larger than this community alone. It's a reminder of what's possible.”

She added trust is not something that disappears, but it’s not something restored all at once.

“It is rebuilt, decision by decision, conversation by conversation, action by action, not in theory, but in practice. What we are working through here is not unique to Wilmot. It's the work facing communities across the province, the country and increasingly around the world. And the lesson is the same.”

She added trust is not rebuilt through structure alone or policy. It is rebuilt through people, through leadership who are willing to listen, through institutions that are willing to evolveand through communities that choose to stay engaged, even when it is difficult.

“Because the future of our institutions will not be defined by the pressures we're under. It will be defined by how we respond to it, whether we choose to step back or step forward. The future is not something that simply happens to us. It is something we shape, something we build and that work belongs to all of us. We don't predict the future, we create it.”

The event was organized by Wilmot Township, and Salonen sat down with CityNews 570 host Mike Farwell for a question-and-answer session after her address.

Ingersoll Mayor Brian Petrie held a similar breakfast event last week. East ZorraTavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer, along with Mark Peterson and Marcus Ryan, mayors of Blandford-Blenheim and Zorra townships respectively, held a similar event on Wednesday, April 15, in Tavistock. Ryan is also the Warden of Oxford County, and both events were hosted by the local Chambers of Commerce.

Wilmot council backs mayor and councillor pay increase for next term of council

GALEN SIMMONS

Regional Editor

After several months of discussion around how the Township of Wilmot should review council pay for the 20262030 term, councillors have recommended applying a retroactive cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) based on the 60th-percentile recommendation from the township’s 2023 compensation review.

At its April 13 committee of the whole meeting, council recommended staff proceed with an adjustment to the base pay for the mayor and councillors for the next term of council following the October municipal election, with all members of council in favour except Coun. Lillianne Dunstall.

The recommendation follows an internal administrative review of council compensation conducted by staff, building on a 2023 market review completed by Pesce & Associates and guided by the township’s recently adopted council remuneration review policy.

“I just think comparing income without taking into consideration financial position doesn’t give a really clear picture,” Dunstall said, referring to the use of comparator municipalities to determine adequate council compensation. “I doubt that the (other municipalities) we used to compare had a 27 per-cent increase in taxes over the last two years. I think we have one more year of the nine per-cent (capital) levy. And the (municipalities) we used as comparators; some of them had twice the amount of (revenue) than we had. … We just don’t have the base to do that.

“In addition, I just don’t think our residents can take on more. Twenty-seven per cent in two years, that’s a lot, and now we’re asking them to take on more. I just don’t think I can vote yes on this.”

Under the recommended option, the mayor’s annual base salary would increase by $10,651.57 to $50,076.57 for the 2026-2030 term, while councillors’ base pay would increase by $3,343.25 to $25,215.25.

Staff reviewed four possible approaches to adjusting council pay, including maintaining current salaries with retroactive COLA applied, using the 50th percentile recommendation from the 2023 compensation review, using the 60th percentile recommendation plus COLA, or matching recently approved remuneration levels in neighbouring Woolwich Township.

Staff ultimately recommended the 60th percentile option as it aligns with how compensation adjustments were applied to township staff and reflects the municipality’s position relative to comparable jurisdictions.

“This is not an easy job and it sometimes can be a thankless job, but I think it is important, from my perspective, that we have to look at remuneration as it can potentially attract someone into this role,” Coun. Kris Wilkinson said. “Yes, I agree, civic duty

and our love of it is probably what draws us here more than anything, but I think when we also look at the time we give up and the sacrifices we make from time to time, the remuneration is that trade-off and that give-back to say, ‘Thank you for being part of the township and the governance structure.’ ”

“It’s not going to affect this current council,” Coun. Harv Sidhu added. “It will be for the next council and there is a barrier in between that; it’s called the election. We’re going to have to earn the public’s trust again. All the cards are going to be on the table, I’m going to go door to door and I’m going to have to answer to this. I have had conversations with residents bringing up this very topic and I would say … nine out of 10 of them said, ‘You have a tough job, it’s not a large number.’ It’s not something we want, but if you want to have good candidates, it’s essentially something you’ve got to pay for.”

Current base salaries for Wilmot council have remained unchanged since 2023, when councillors chose not to move forward with recommended increases and also opted to forgo annual cost-of-living adjustments during the current term.

The remuneration review process stems from council’s adoption of a formal policy in 2025 establishing a standardized approach to reviewing council pay once per term, with any changes applying to the next term of council rather than the current one.

Previous discussions at council highlighted the importance of benchmarking compensation against comparable municipalities and ensuring remuneration reflects the responsibilities and time commitment associated with serving as mayor or councillor, while balancing fiscal responsibility and public perception.

“There is a growing body of research about engagement in municipal politics and it’s declining, and that less people are putting their names forward, and one of those big, underlying factors is affordability,” Mayor Natasha Salonen said, touching on why she used her strong mayor powers to direct staff to begin developing a council remuneration policy last fall. “We, in my opinion, as a community need to be incentivising enough through remuneration that we’re allowing people who can bring the types of decision making to the table that we want to see … aren’t being stopped because the remuneration isn’t something that they’re able to make work in their daily lives.

“ … I don’t want it to become an argument of civic duty or remuneration. … I think it’s really important that we are allowing people in our community to engage, if they want to, in a way where money isn’t a factor.”

Financial implications associated with the recommended option would see total annual base remuneration for council increase

Draft Wellesley official plan released for public feedback

GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor

Wellesley Township council has received a first draft of the municipality’s new official plan, a key policy document that will guide how the township grows and develops through 2051.

Planning consultant Joe Nethery of Nethery Planning presented the draft plan at the April 7 council meeting, marking the beginning of the next phase of public engagement before the document returns to council for adoption later this year.

“This marks the public release of the draft new official plan for the Township of Wellesley,” Nethery said. “I will be talking about the engagement plan (for) the next couple of months where people will be hearing a very similar message many, many times as we get ready to gather more input and come back before you for a statutory public meeting in about three months time.”

The new official plan consolidates the township’s existing 2015 official plan with relevant policies from the former regional official plan, reflecting recent provincial legislative changes that shifted planning authority from upper-tier municipalities like Waterloo Region to lower-tier municipalities such as Wellesley.

The official plan serves as the township’s primary land-use policy framework, guiding decisions related to housing, employment lands, agriculture, infrastructure, environmental protection and community design.

The draft plan incorporates recommendations from six background discussion papers previously reviewed by council covering topics such as residential growth and intensification, employment lands,

commercial needs, settlement-area boundary expansion criteria, secondary planning for designated growth areas and land-use policy review.

“We are looking to establish a density target; this goes above and beyond provincial planning, consistent with township practices and regional practices before,” Nethery said. “The target being proposed is 50 residents and jobs combined per hectare – that’s taken as a gross measurement overall – inclusive of community infrastructure and physical services that are needed as well.”

Before receiving the presentation for information, councillors sought clarification about protections carried forward from the regional official plan, particularly regarding the Regional Recharge Area and the Countryside Line. Township staff confirmed existing protections will remain in place in the new plan and no urban expansion has been proposed within the Regional Recharge Area or beyond the Countryside Line.

The draft official plan continues to emphasize the importance of protecting prime agricultural lands and maintaining the township’s rural character while planning for modest population and employment growth over the coming decades.

Planning projections anticipate growth to approximately 14,000 residents and roughly 6,700 jobs by 2051, requiring careful consideration of where new housing and employment opportunities should be located.

According to Nethery’s presentation, the township currently has about 49.9 hectares of vacant land within existing settlement boundaries, including 23.6 hectares within the Village of Wellesley and additional

lands within rural settlement areas.

Based on background studies, the township is expected to require additional residential and employment lands to meet projected demand, including land needed to support job growth targets and a mix of housing types.

The draft plan also includes policies intended to support complete communities through a range of housing options, including additional residential units, modest intensification within built-up areas and opportunities for small-scale redevelopment.

Other policy areas addressed in the draft plan include environmental protection through a strengthened greenlands network, watershed planning and protection of natural heritage features, as well as policies supporting agribusiness, agri-tourism and on-farm diversified uses.

As part of the process, the township has evaluated a number of requests to expand settlement-area boundaries. A total of 18 requests were reviewed using criteria established through earlier background work, with some identified as supportable, some requiring additional information and others not recommended for inclusion in the draft plan.

“There is one fairly big expansion request that is being supported right now, and it is for employment lands in southwest Wellesley (west of the Village of Wellesley),

Continued from page 3

from $148,785 currently to $176,152.82 beginning with the 2026-2030 term.

Staff also recommend a further comparative review of council compensation be included as part of the township’s 2027 market compensation review to ensure ongoing alignment with comparable

and it has been supported through township policy for some time,” Nethery said.

More detailed analysis of those requests will be shared with council and the public as part of the ongoing engagement process.

With the draft plan now released, township staff and consultants are preparing for the next round of public engagement, which will include workshops, one-on-one discussions, a statutory open house and a statutory public meeting required under the Planning Act.

According to the project timeline outlined in the staff report, a public workshop and council workshop are expected in early May, followed by a statutory open house later in May and a statutory public meeting in mid-June.

Residents, agencies and other interested parties will have an opportunity to review the draft plan and provide feedback before a final version is brought forward for council consideration in early July.

Following adoption by council, the new official plan will be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for approval. Once approved, the new document will replace both the existing township and regional official plans.

Information about the draft official plan and opportunities for input is available through the township’s Engage Wellesley project website.

municipalities and evolving responsibilities of elected officials.

The committee of the whole recommendation will be considered for final approval at an upcoming council meeting, with any changes to remuneration taking effect following the Oct. 26 municipal election and the start of the new term of council.

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Tavistock Community Health Inc. reports positive year at annual meeting

Those interior upgrades were completed on schedule by local contractor Jon Witzel Construction.

Tavistock Community Health Inc. (TCHI) reported a positive financial year during its annual meeting last week, despite several major capital improvements completed at the local medical clinic.

Audited financial statements, prepared by Stratford’s Famme and Co., showed the organization remained in a stable position after investing in several significant upgrades to the medical building.

Among the largest expenses were the purchase and installation of a new HVAC heating and cooling unit on the clinic roof, the replacement of an aging standby generator and renovations to the office, front waiting area and examination rooms.

During the meeting, outgoing president Russ Huber was congratulated for guiding the board through a challenging year while helping launch TCHI’s $500,000 fundraising campaign.

Huber told those in attendance the organization is still looking for three new board members. Anyone interested, whether they are a clinic patient or not, is encouraged to contact Frank Meconi at 519-801-8693 or by email at fameconi@roger.com.

Huber also invited area residents to visit the clinic and see the upgrades for themselves, adding the board hopes community members will consider making capital donations to help ensure the clinic remains

viable for another 25 years.

The annual meeting also featured guest speakers Barb Myers and Ron Harrison of Shakespeare, who spoke about living with Parkinson’s disease, with which Harrison has been diagnosed.

Speaking with optimism, the couple shared information about the symptoms of Parkinson’s, including anxiety, rigidity, freezing of gait, tremors, poor balance, cramping, sleep disruption and apathy. They noted dopamine-based treatment is currently the main therapy helping manage symptoms.

They also referenced actor Michael J. Fox, who has lived with Parkinson’s for decades, as an example of someone continuing to cope with the disease over the long term.

Harrison said doctors at Victoria Hospital in London have been surprised by how much strength he still has, and he remains hopeful he may eventually undergo deep-brain stimulation treatment.

Over the years, the couple, along with their families and supporters, have helped raise more than $300,000 in the Stratford and Shakespeare areas for Parkinson’s research and efforts toward a future cure.

This year’s Parkinson’s walk is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, at Upper Queen’s Park in Stratford. Organizers said community support through sponsorship and participation continues to play an important role in funding research and support for those living with the disease.

Tavistock Scotiabank raises funds for agricultural society ahead of closure

Staff at the Scotiabank branch in Tavistock have been raising funds for the Tavistock Agricultural Society in the months leading up to the branch’s closure.

Through the initiative, the financial institution collected donated books and puzzles and sold them for $5 each, with all proceeds supporting the local agricultural society and its ongoing community programming.

Directors with the Tavistock Agricultural Society reminded residents attending the Tavistock Fall Fair in September that books and puzzles will once again be available at the east end of the exhibits arena, encouraging fairgoers to browse and support the organization’s fundraising efforts.

“As we prepare to close our doors, we welcome everyone to visit Scotiabank staff from May 11 to 15. We invite the community to stop in, say goodbye and celebrate the relationships we’ve built together over the years,” the local branch said in a statement.

Over 500 unique items on display at annual meeting of Tavistock and District Historical Society

PAUL BARTLETT

Tavistock and District Historical Society

On Saturday, April 11, the Tavistock and District Historical Society (TDHS) held its 22nd annual general meeting in the Grace United Church Zion Hall.

The theme of the event was “Ye Olde Curiosity Shoppe” and it proved to be very successful.

There had been at least three major antique shows in Tavistock over the years and TDHS felt the time was right for another one. Twenty known collectors were invited to display their unique items to the public and over 500 articles were shown.

Some of the items on display included thimbles and cameos; motion lamps; medicine invalid feeders; folk art checkerboards; gramophones; rare books; a toy steam engine; stereoscope photographs; soapstone carvings; pocket watches; children’s toy sewing machines; a genuine Matthies wagon, and much more. The response to the event was so enthusiastic that, undoubtedly, it will not be the last.

Brian Bennett opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. Over 50 members were in attendance. Bob Rudy presented the financial report for the 2025 calendar year. Of course, the major event of the year was the purchase of one of only five John Lemp grandfather clocks in existence. Rudy was able to announce that, through the generous support of community individuals and organizations, the society was able to meet its fundraising goal within three months.

Paul Bartlett gave a review of the activities of TDHS in 2025. A highlight was

the presentation by Donna Dickson to last year’s AGM entitled “The Story of the John Lemp Clocks and How We Acquired One.” That talk prompted many requests for visits to see the clock at the museum.

A presentation about The Eel, Tavistock’s famous racehorse, was given to the Stratford Historical Society in May, and over 100 visitors toured the museum in September as part of a car rally put on by the Stratford Rotary Club. Tim Mosher’s well-received columns in the Gazette about the Lemp Studio Collection can now be found on the tavistockhistory. ca website.

Display cases at the Tavistock Arena and the township offices in Hickson continue to be changed on a regular basis by Marilyn Pearson, Tom Zimmerman, Dickson and Susan Pellow with different themes. And the museum and archives located at 37 Maria St. continues to be open the third Saturday of every month and by request for people investigating their family roots. Visitors are surprised by our small museum – it has been called “a small gem” and “an unknown treasure.”

Following the review of the society’s activities, the executive for 2026 was approved. This included Joan Bartlett, Paul Bartlett, Brian Bennett, Donna Dickson, Mike Dickson, Walter Kurzatz, Susan Pellow, Bob Rudy and Tom Zimmerman. As the bylaws state the executive could have up to 12 members, an invitation was made to the membership for others to come forward to serve. One could not find a more friendly, enthusiastic and committed group to work with.

QUILT SHOW

Shakespeare Men’s Club to host annual Taco Night April 25

GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent

The Shakespeare Men’s Club will host its annual Taco Night April 25 at the Shakespeare and District Optimist Hall.

The event runs from 4-8 p.m. and will feature Mexican-themed music and a full menu of food options for attendees.

Organizer and club president Barry Nowack said the evening offers more than just tacos, with a variety of choices prepared using locally raised beef.

Menu items include hard- and soft-shell

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tacos, nachos with cheese sauce, chili, salads, refried beans, hotdogs and a selection of desserts.

A cash bar will also be available during the event.

Advance tickets are $25 each, while tickets purchased at the door will be $30, subject to availability. Children aged 10 and under can eat free when accompanied by an adult with a purchased ticket.

Tickets are available during business hours at Shakespeare Brewing Company or from any member of the Shakespeare Men’s Club.

Local youth square dancers take part in College Royal competition

and enjoyable activity for generations of young people.

confidence and social skills.

Modern square dancing continues to grow in popularity among local youth, with dancers from the Tavistock and Hampstead areas recently taking part in competitions, including the annual College Royal event at the University of Guelph.

While some may say trends come and go, organizers of College Royal would say square dancing has remained a strong

Several local boys and girls are involved in square dancing through area clubs, including the Thames Valley Dance Club, where they learn skills, stay active and enjoy spending time with friends.

According to participants and parents, square dancing offers an opportunity for young people aged nine to 21 to stay physically active while developing teamwork,

Many of the local dancers first met through 4-H programs in Tavistock and surrounding communities and have found square dancing to be a fun way to remain involved in group activities beyond traditional agricultural clubs.

Leaders supporting the Tavistock 4-H square dancing team include Jack and Jane Danen, Julie Danen, Kirsten Dill and June Nussey.

Travel journalist nominated for national award

WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE

thewtgazette@gmail.com

Paul Knowles, who writes the weekly travel feature in this newspaper and all the papers in the Grant Haven Media group, has been named as a finalist for a national Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC) Award.

TMAC has announced the finalists for its 2025 National and Recognition Awards, celebrating excellence in Canadian travel media. The winners will be officially announced at the TMAC National Conference, taking place in Richmond, B.C., during the Awards Gala on May 2.

Knowles is nominated in the category,

Best Indigenous Tourism Experience in Canada Story, for his feature entitled

“History, hurting and healing” about the National Indigenous Residential School Museum of Canada in Portage la Prairie, Man. The article was published in September 2025.

Knowles’ weekly feature runs under the banner, “Oh, the places we’ll go!”

“This year’s finalists reflect not only outstanding storytelling and creativity, but also the important role travel media plays towards inspiring travel,“ said Jerry Grymek, president of TMAC. “On behalf of TMAC, I extend my congratulations to all of the finalists for their inspiring contributions to this industry.”

Truck driver charged after hydro pole damaged in Tavistock

WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF

thewtgazette@gmail.com

Tavistock and area motorists were inconvenienced Monday morning after a pickup truck hauling an empty flatbed trailer smashed into a hydro pole.

Members of the Oxford Ontario Provincial Police responded to the single-vehicle collision on Woodstock Street North in the town at 6:45 a.m.

The pole was damaged to the point where it had to be replaced by ERTH Power.

The street was originally closed from Jacob Street West to Dietrich Road, but was later extended to Line 29 and Hope Street until the pole replacement was completed in the afternoon.

A spokesperson from ERTH said power to 67 customers was interrupted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Twenty of those 67 customers were also without electricity until 4 p.m. when the repair was fully completed.

The driver of the truck, a 63-yearold from Dorchester, was charged with careless driving. No injuries were reported.

Electrical Safety Authority officials and hydro crews were on the scene Monday morning after a truck pulling a fifth-wheel flatbed trailer snapped a hydro pole on Woodstock Street North in Tavistock. The road was closed for several hours, preventing northbound travel toward Shakespeare, while traffic was rerouted along Janelle Street as crews installed a replacement pole.

1857 Tremaine map offers glimpse into early days of Plattsville

A historic 1857 Tremaine map of Plattsville, now preserved at the Oxford County Archives on Light Street in Woodstock, offers a fascinating look at the early development of the community.

The map was discovered in an attic and later donated to the archives by a volunteer dedicated to preserving the history of Oxford County and surrounding areas.

The year 2026 marks an important milestone for Plattsville, which will celebrate its 175th anniversary. Plans are underway for a community celebration on June 20, featuring a parade, games for all ages, antique cars, heritage displays with historical stories, food and more.

In its earliest days, the community was known as Blenheim Mills or Plattsville Station. In 1851, the settlement was renamed Plattsville after Samuel Platt.

Ancestry research indicates Platt was born in Berkshire, England, and baptized May 15, 1822, in the parish of Aldermaston to parents John and Ann Platt. His wife, Mary Ann Fennell, was from Wiltshire, England. While little is known about Samuel Platt’s father, John, Ann Platt is buried in Woodland Cemetery in London, Ont. Samuel Platt’s brothers, John and William, also settled in the London area and are buried alongside their mother, while another brother, Edward, is buried in Plattsville Cemetery. Samuel Platt and members of his family are buried in Maitland Cemetery in Goderich.

Marriage records show Samuel Platt and Mary Ann Fennell were married in London on Jan. 20, 1849, at the home of her father, according to Reid’s Marriage Notices.

Census records from 1851 show the couple’s oldest daughter, Mary Ann, was born in Wilmot Township, while their second daughter, Martha Sarah, was born in Blenheim Township. Census records from 1871 and 1881 indicate the family had nine children born in Ontario.

According to an essay written in the

1930s by Norman Peat, Samuel Platt came to Canada in 1844 and worked as a millwright in New Dundee before settling in Blenheim Township. He located a site for a mill on the east bank of Smith’s Creek and later became the community’s first postmaster in 1855.

Land abstract records show Platt purchased 60 acres in February 1851 in Lot 19, Concession 13, followed by another purchase in July 1858 in Lot 18, Concession 13. Over time, lots were sold for homes that would form the growing community of Plattsville.

The 1857 Tremaine map illustrates a busy and developing town. A flour mill is shown at location No. 1, a woollen mill at No. 2 and a sawmill at No. 3, while Platt’s residence is marked at No. 4.

The map also highlights a thriving commercial centre, including a hotel, several stores, a cabinet shop, tin shop, shoe shop, blacksmith shop, foundry and grocery store. The first Methodist church appears to have been located on the northwest corner of what is now Young Street and River Road.

Many street names reflected historical influences and notable figures, including Napier, Brock, Wellington, Harding, Seaton and Elgin, referencing British military leaders and statesmen. Other names reflect historical figures and influences such as Brant, Tecumseh and Wilmot, while Albert, Queen and Elizabeth likely referenced British royalty. Mill Street was named for the mills that played a central role in the town’s early growth.

The Nith River was once known as Smith’s Creek, and the mill race carried water behind the mills to power early machinery.

The Tremaine map can be viewed online through the Ontario Historical County Maps website by selecting Oxford County.

This map provides a glimpse into the beginnings of Plattsville’s story, illustrating the industry and community spirit that helped shape the town 175 years ago.

Zehr family continues tradition of attending Canadian Dairy Expo

GARY WEST

Gazette Correspondent

Farm families from across the region once again travelled to Stratford for this year’s Canadian Dairy Expo (CDX), including the Zehr family from the Topping area in Mornington Township.

Each April, the Zehrs make the annual trip to CDX to learn about the latest developments in dairy farming technology and innovations that continue to shape the industry.

Like many farm families, the Zehrs complete their chores early in the day before spending time at the show, taking in exhibits featuring the newest advancements in milking equipment, herd genetics and crop-production technology.

A highlight of the first day of the event is the calf sale, which attracts strong interest from dairy producers looking to evaluate bloodlines and future herd potential.

During this year’s show, the Zehr family visited the STgenetics display, where dairy producers had an opportunity to view cattle sired by bulls from the artificial-insemination company based near Listowel.

Displays like these allow dairy farmers to better understand the characteristics and production potential of animals bred through specific genetics programs.

Our plan to protect Ontario is building new pipelines

As Canada stares down economic uncertainty, we’re ready with a plan to protect Ontario. We’re building to bring opportunity, good jobs and growth home to our province.

That’s how we protect Ontario.

Nith Valley EcoBoosters aiming to educate Wilmot residents on water woes

Water expert and former region employee highlights event

LEE GRIFFI Gazette Reporter

The Nith Valley EcoBoosters (NVEB) are hosting an in-person and online event next week to educate residents on the growing concerns surrounding the water supply in Wilmot and the Region of Waterloo.

The group is a not-for-profit, volunteer, non-partisan organization made up of community members. Their core mission is to promote a healthy, sustainable environment and work through education, action and collaboration.

The organization has enlisted the support of Dr. Hugh Simpson, a hydrologist with 30 years of experience in groundwater-resources management and protection.

Tom Knezevich is the organization’s chair and explained the number one reason to hold the event is due to concerns over water capacity.

“People, including myself, are hearing conflicting and confusing stories. Some people are saying one thing, other people are saying something different. It's difficult for people to sort through all of these stories and try to figure out, ‘Okay, I'm not exactly sure what's going on here and what's true and what isn't.’ ”

He added the goal is to take a very complex issue and hopefully simplify it to help people understand what is happening with their water supply.

“Okay, now I understand what the issues are, why this happened perhaps and what can we do to solve it? And then the final

reason we're doing it really is different than the water-capacity issue.”

Knezevich added while the capacity is significant, he hopes to get people talking about ways to save water.

“It's very important for all of us as individuals to think about water conservation.

I can remember 10, 20 years ago, there was a lot of talk about it. We were all concerned about making sure we had the right toilets and not running our water when brushing our teeth, and that's gone away.”

Simpson isn’t only a hydrogeologist, but someone who worked in the region and has historical knowledge.

“I worked for the region from 1992 to about 2000. The rural farming community was my bailiwick, so mostly private wells and protecting our water supply, which a lot of it comes from places where there are some very large capacity wells. What I've been noticing in news articles is they have been very fragmented. They come from very narrow, particular perspectives, looking at a little part of the problem.”

He added part of the problem with the water system comes from personnel changes, citing the retirement of Ken Sealing as regional chair.

“We saw a break in the CAO's office from being an engineer who really understood things from a technical point of view, but also a person with a strong connection to the rural community. Ken came out of Elmira and Woolwich Township. And no disrespect to the current councillors, the current senior staff, but they don't have that sort of history with the community.”

Simpson added the hiring of more communications staff, who he said are doing less communicating, is also an issue.

“I even hear it in some of the people speaking on behalf of the region in an elected or senior staff capacity, where they're clearly reading prepared text, because nobody speaks that way.”

He added he has been through risk-communication training and recognizes the cadence, the tone and the structure to be calm.

“There's nothing to worry about, we're handling this, and then over to what they want to talk about and moving you carefully away from what they don't want to talk about. There is a legitimate concern from some residents that their wells could run dry, and digging deeper comes at a huge expense, normally in the five-figure range,” Simpson said.

There is an incredible amount of information coming from multiple sources on this issue, be it government, community groups, developers and those directly affected by decreasing well levels. Knezevich is hoping he and Simpson can provide easy-to-understand facts.

“This is really complex. We need somebody to take all this information and give it to us at a Grade 8 education level because that's what the general public needs,” Knezevich said. “This is getting too confusing and complex.”

Knezevich added he’s not sure the pair will quite be able to reach a Grade 8 level, but he is confident people will leave with a better understanding of the big picture.

“And of course, from the perspective of the Nith Valley EcoBoosters, we want them to leave also with that little bit of a message that people need to take some responsibility here to make sure that we don't go crazy with our water consumption.”

Simpson said there needs to be more collaboration on dealing with the water issues in Wilmot and the Region of Waterloo.

“What I see is something that would be like a visioning process where our regional and local municipal leaders really create something formal to look at this. One thing would be to lobby the provincial government to get our regional policy planning authority back because we will do it much better here.”

Rather than taking direction from Queen's Park, Simpson the region should be deciding these things locally.

“I've been here since the late 1980s, and I've always been happy to live here. And I've always felt that there was a really good, solid community idea about what the community looked like, but I think it's kind of fraying a little bit with this undermining of legislation and protections that we've had for generations here.”

The event is free, but pre-registration is required by visiting www.nvecoboosters. com or https://bit.ly/2026water. It takes place on Tuesday, April 21, from 7-9 p.m. at Zion United Church at 215 Peel St. in New Hamburg. It will also be broadcast live online and a recording will be available on YouTube after a few days.

Education event on gender-based and intimatepartner violence held in New Dundee

Those who attended the Southern Ontario Support (SOS) society’s event focused on gender-based and intimate-partner violence at the New Dundee Community Centre March 28 left with a greater sense of awareness and more information on the topic.

Several local social service organizations including Waterloo Region’s Family Violence Project, Women’s Crisis Services and Neighbours, Friends & Families of Western University’s Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women & Children were represented by panelists Pari Karem, Jessica Almeida and Margaret MacPherson at the event.

Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis brought greetings and a supportive

message from the federal government, while Kitchener South/Hespeler MPP Jess Dixon spoke about the research done and the report on intimate-partner violence (IPV) she spearheaded for the Ontario government, touching on how the government can do its part in preventing IPV.

She said IPV should be considered endemic, not an epidemic, as the causes of IPV are longstanding and inherent in societal systems, as opposed to a short-term epidemic.

A very brave and passionate IPV survivor spoke of the red flags she encountered in the relationship she had been involved in with a former partner. Despite her fear, she sought counselling and assistance and wad able to leave the relationship.

More than 50 women and a few men listened intently to the speakers. One of the key takeaways for those who attended the

this completely renovated home you will fall in love with this bright and airy home. The kitchen is the centre of the home and offers an 8 ft island, upgraded cabinetry, 3 ft pantry, stunning bar area with floating shelves and farmhouse lighting. Lots of pull-out drawers, pull out garbage/recycling caddy. The living room offers a large window, built in electric fireplace, built in cabinets and bench seating. The dining area is currently used as a playroom and offers many different options such as home office, dining room, toy room, etc. California shutters on living and dining room windows complete the look. Two large bedrooms offer lots of space, both have 2 windows and the second bedroom has built in closet system with pull out drawers. The basement is finished to include a family room, bedroom, bath and wet bar area ~ perfect for an in-law suite/teenager/etc. There is a large laundry room with built in cabinets and countertop. This home sits on a large park like lot and offers a gazebo, a shed and an oversized one car garage. There is a deck off of the kitchen, patio stones to the lovely flowerbeds, fire pit ~ perfect for outdoor gatherings! Call today to view this lovingly renovated home. ALSO AVAILABLE

event is, if they know someone they suspect might be a victim of IPV, to tell them, “I see you, I’m worried about you, and I’m here for you.” We can all be a part of prevention by bold but simple, caring words. Resources and services are available to help those in abusive situations.

Those who attended the event commented on what they learned.

“It is up to neighbours, families and friends to be the front line in combating this urgent problem,” said Dave, one of the event’s attendees. “Learning the red flags of abusive behaviour and challenging those demonstrating it with kindness and support is important. … Intimate partner and domestic abuse are serious community problems.”

“The presentation by a survivor of violence was heart wrenching,” added Brenda, another attendee.

“I really appreciated how the issue of gender-based violence was approached from several different perspectives, including the range of services available and the experience of a survivor,” another attendee, Lisa, said. “The highlight for me was learning about ways that all of us as family, friends and neighbours can reach out to and support women who are in unhealthy relationships. I was motivated by the work of MPP Jess Dixon and will be contacting my own MPP to support moving it forward towards systemic change.”

SOS is very appreciative of the generosity of so many local businesses for supporting this event: the New Dundee Emporium, New Dundee Pottery, New Dundee Guardian Pharmacy, Maple Tap

Farm, Meadow Acres, Colour Paradise, Mountainoak Cheese, Sobey’s and No Frills in New Hamburg, and Staples Waterloo.

The generosity of these businesses was overwhelming, as was the enthusiasm and generosity of our speakers who were all so eager to share their knowledge and expertise about this delicate topic. We thank them profusely.

If you feel that you may be a victim of family or intimate-partner violence, please reach out to counsellors and resources in your area. In Waterloo Region, contact the Family Violence Project at 519-743-6333 or coordinator@familyviolenceprojectwr. ca. This is not an emergency response service. The partners of the Family Violence Project work together to provide seamless, victim-centred and trauma-informed wraparound support for victims of family violence.

For immediate support, contact Women’s Crisis Services by calling their 24/7 crisis support line, 519-742-5894 or 519-6532422, or access the live chat and get connected with a support worker. Women located in rural areas can contact Women’s Crisis Services by using the phone lines above or the live chat. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Learn more about Neighbours, Friends and Families by visiting www.neighboursfriendsandfamilies.ca/about/index.html.

Nancy Birss is president of the Southern Ontario Support Society for Associated Country Women of the World and a member of the New Dundee Women’s Institute.

OBITUARY

Héléne Middleton

Héléne Marie Middleton (Barriault) of Hickson passed away peacefully at Sakura House Hospice on March 31, 2026, at the age of 65, into the arms of her Lord and Saviour.

She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Brian Middleton; her stepchildren, Darryl, Amanda (Gareth), and Melissa (Tamara); her mother Elizabeth Bujold, and her late father Alphé Bariault. She is also survived by her sister Marie (late husband Alain); her brothers Louis (Nicole), Denis (Guylène), Marc (Elaine), and Guy (Isabelle); her aunts Monique, Thérèse, and Emilie; her uncle Henri; her mother-in-law Lois; her sistersin-law Karen (Frank) and Brenda (Rob); her brother-in-law Don (Candas); as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.

Héléne was born in Carleton, Quebec and dedicated her life to caring for others. She earned her Registered Nursing Certificate in community health and outpost nursing from Dalhousie University and became a Registered Nurse in 1992. She spent two decades serving as a nurse in the Arctic, where she made a lasting impact on countless lives. From 2001 to 2003, she attended Frontline Bible Training Centre in Kingston, deepening her faith and commitment to service. Together with Brian, she also achieved Platinum level in their Amway business.

Her life was marked by many meaningful moments, including her salvation, a memorable trip to Israel in 2007, and her marriage to Brian on November 26, 2011. She found great joy in working alongside Brian in their business and in building a life rooted in faith and partnership. Héléne enjoyed simple pleasures such as reading, knitting, painting, doing word finds, and spending time in nature. She had a deep love for children, animals—especially cats and dogs—and music, including artists such as Celine Dion, as well as Christian musicians like Jenn Johnson and Brandon Lake. Her favourite books included the Bible and The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom. She will be remembered for her joyful spirit, engaging conversation, and contagious laughter.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to her caregivers, Melissa, Prabjot, and Marion, as well as her dear friends Karen and Anne, and the doctors, nurses, and staff at Sakura House Hospice and Woodstock Hospital for their compassionate care.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday May 1, 2026 at 10:30 am at Jubilee Church, 707 Downie St., Stratford, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, donations in Héléne’s memory may be made to support ministry in the Arctic through timothy-generation-ministries.givecloud.co/ give. Donations are also encouraged to support VON Sakura House. Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock was entrusted with Final Arrangements. Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared at wareingcremation.ca

May the road rise up to meet you May the wind be always at your back May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Sorry For Your Loss

High Noon luncheon season wraps up at Grace United Church

GARY WEST

Gazette Correspondent

The final High Noon luncheon until the fall season was held Thursday, April 9, at Grace United Church in Tavistock, bringing together community members for a shared meal and an informative guest presentation.

Hosted monthly by the Tavistockarea ministerial association, the donation-based luncheon welcomes residents from across the community to enjoy fellowship while hearing from guest speakers on a variety of topics of interest.

This month’s speaker was Manshi Pandya, a psychotherapist and

program director with the Interfaith Counselling Centre in New Hamburg, who spoke about seniors’ mental health and the importance of maintaining joy, purpose and dignity while aging.

Pandya discussed the importance of strong relationships and personal wellness as people grow older, emphasizing the role social connection can play in maintaining both mental and physical health.

She explained that maintaining joy in everyday life can contribute to improved cognitive function, reduced stress and better overall wellbeing. Pandya also encouraged attendees

1. What is the smallest unit of matter?

2. What is an eight-sided shape called?

3. What does a funambulist walk on?

4. What is the hardest natural substance on Earth?

5. In what year did the Titanic sink?

6. Which gender of mosquito is responsible for mosquito bites?

What is the rarest blood type?

What year did the first human land on the moon?

What are the three states of matter?

What is the name of Mickey Mouse’s pet

to stay active through hobbies, volunteering and spending time outdoors, noting that sunshine and fresh air can contribute to improved physical and mental health.

She emphasized that the power of community and having a sense of purpose are key elements in maintaining positive mental health, adding that self-care and self-respect are especially important as people age.

Lunch was prepared and served by volunteers, featuring homemade lasagna, Caesar salad and freshly baked carrot cake for dessert.

The High Noon luncheons will resume in the fall.

The Old Gazettes

By Sydney Grant

Slowly but surely, I’m reading through the past pages of the Tavistock Gazette (est. 1895). Within this weekly column I’d like to share with you some of my findings.

April 14-21, 2021, Edition (5 years ago)

In an effort to get her university’s Relay for Life cancer fundraiser over the $60,000 mark, Rose Danen pledged to shave her head. As the co-chair of the planning committee for Relay for Life Carleton in Ottawa, Rose coordinated her pledge with the other co-chair, Morgan Beatty, who promised to dye her hair bright blue when $50,000 was raised. Together, and with the tireless work of dozens of volunteers, their first virtual relay was a success raising over $62,000 for cancer research.

They’ve starred in Carver Kings on HGTV and were featured in Saw Dogs on OLN-TV, and now you can see their chainsaw carvings in Shakespeare in their new ship in the village. The father-and-son team of Paul and Jacob Frenette have been doing TV shows and live exhibitions for many years, including carving demonstrations at community events. As the popularity of chainsaw carving has grown, they have appeared right across Canada, drawing large crowds to witness their chainsaw carvings firsthand. The Frenettes plan to run demonstrations throughout the summer at their newly acquired property on Highway 7/8. They will continue working onsite with the mobile trailer pictured, which they use for road shows and commissioned works. They carved the Shakespeare bear at the entrance to the new gallery.

April 13-20, 2011, Edition (15 years ago)

After finishing second in their double round-robin playdowns, the Tavistock Intersport PeeWee Titans took back-toback wins, eliminating the Beverly Bandits in a best-of-three series to capture the Grand River Local League PeeWee C Division Championship. With two seconds left in the game, the Bandits were able to beat goaltender Carney, but it was too little, too late as the Titans were already up by two. Members of the team are Josh Bender, Ben Gingerich, Bryce Yantzi, Devon Carney, Curtis Steinman, Joel Wallace, Nick Danen, Tyler Swartzentruber, Garrett Wells, Ryan DeBrower, Luke Gummerson, Evan Goforth, Jack McGrath, Eric Stewart and Jacob Smith.

Who could say no to free wireless broadband internet equipment and installation in their home? East Zorra-Tavistock rural residents will be the first to get just that, and with a $49.95 per month subscription, receive download speeds over 10 times faster than any current dial-up provider. People living and working in Oxford can now sign up for free and begin receiving high-speed internet service, creating more opportunities to transact and interact on the information highway. Rural Oxford Connections is a $3-million project funded through a partnership between the County of Oxford, Execulink Telecom and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

April 10-17, 1996, Edition (30 years ago)

The Tavistock Chiefs upset the firstplace Bennington Bombers in the finals of the North Oxford Men’s Hockey League to take the 1995-1996 championship title. Kevin Albrecht scored twice with singles going to Shawn Bendeer, Brian Stere, Bob Burgess and Mark Albrecht to lead the Chiefs to a 6-4 victory over Bennington in Game 5 of the best-of-seven playoff series. Members include Mike Munro, Brad Stere, March Albrecht, Jeff Kaufman, Shawn Bender, Brian Stere, Kris Zehr, Corey Bender, Brad Wettlaufer, Paul Albrecht, Mark McKay, Kevin Albrecht, Bob Burgess, James Kropf, Dave Wiffen, Spencer Rowland, Jim Wilhelm and Dean Kaufman.

A Tavistock youth is playing Moody MacPherson in the Woodstock Little Theatre, sold-out production of Anne of Green Gables, which runs an eight-day stint at the Market Centre in Woodstock from April 12-21. Andrew Biggar, 16, was one of 87 youths who auditioned for parts in the classic Canadian musical based on the book by the late Prince Edward Island novelist, Lucy Maud Montgomery.

April 13-20, 1966, Edition (60 years ago)

About $20,000 in farm machinery was destroyed in a barn fire Thursday evening in South Easthope Township, about a mile west of Tavistock on Harmony Road. The fire leveled a barn on the farm owned by Raymond Preiss. Passers-by noticed the fire in the barn and notified the family (the Johnsons). Mr. Johnson, in turn, telephoned Mr. Preiss, who has just returned to his home about a mile distant. He had been working on some machinery in the barn about a half-hour before.

TOWNSHIP OF EAST ZORRA-TAVISTOCK

GRACE UNITED CHURCH

116 Woodstock St. S., Tavistock Service starts at 10:30 am Phone: 519-655-2151

All are welcome

Service led by Rev. Marilyn Arthur Music by Marilyne Nystrome

TRINITY LUTHERAN (ELCIC)

Sebastopol - Tavistock 2210 Perth Line 29

Pastor Steve Hoffard

Worship In Person or on Zoom Sundays at 10:00 AM (519) 655-2372 trinitylcoffice@gmail.com www.trinitytavistock.com

TAVISTOCK MENNONITE

Pastor Julie Ellison White

131 Wettlaufer St., Tavistock 655-2581

Sunday Worship services begin at 9:45am, with coffee and fellowship to follow at 11am. All ages Junior Sunday School will follow after the service. All are Welcome Stream services online at www.tavistockmennonitechurch.ca

TAVISTOCK BIBLE CHAPEL

32 Oxford Street, Tavistock, Ontario

Questions or Need Help?

Text or Call: (519) 655-2413 tavistockbc.org

Family Bible Hour - 11am Each Sunday

ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN LCC Church Phone 519-276-0701

Wellington Street, Tavistock stpaulstavistock@gmail.com

Pastor Rev. Michael Mayer

EAST ZORRA MENNONITE 677044 16th Line Road, East Zorra Pastors Ray Martin & Mike Williamson www.ezmennonite.ca

Service audio recordings available at: https://ezmennonite.ca/worship/

WILMOT TOWNSHIP

ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH

Corner of Waterloo St and Byron St, New Hamburg Weekly Sunday services at 10:15 am. All are welcome. https://www.stgeorgesnewhamburg.com

St James Chapel of Ease 4339 Huron Rd Wilmot Township

All are welcome.

Contact Carol Massel: 519-502-8648 carol@masselsmarine.com

ST AGATHA MENNONITE CHURCH

1967 Erb's Road St Agatha 519-634-8212 Pastor Jim Brown Worship service 10am followed by coffee hour and sermon discussion. All are welcome

The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette

Braves Make History

Tavistock captures first-ever South Conference crown

Raskin said it’s one thing to be a part of the team’s history, but the job isn’t done.

“This is the hardest-working team I have ever seen. We want it so bad, and every player on this team comes together every game to get the job done.”

Captain Marc Dionne, who missed Game 3 of the series and was battling a flu bug for the remaining games, said he felt a lot of different emotions after the series-clinching win.

“This team is something else, so special, but we aren’t done here. We want it all, and every one of these boys on the ice is on the same page, which is what makes it so special.”

He added the team’s heart and soul have been on full display during the postseason.

“Everyone in that locker room knew what we were capable of. Emotions were high in this series, but between periods, we went into the room and made sure everyone was on the same page. We always regrouped and played Braves hockey.”

Tavistock held Dundas to just eight shots during the third period. Head Coach Zac Berg said the team executed the game plan to perfection.

“Once we got the lead, we wanted to put the clamps on them and play structured. We really didn’t give them any ice

to work with and that’s what it came down to. Our D core did a hell of a job locking them down tonight, the forwards helped, we protected the slot, and Blake (Richard) didn’t give up a lot of rebounds.”

During the handshake line, Berg said Blues general manager Steve Aglor had high praise for the Braves.

"He said we were the hardest-working team he’s ever seen. I 100 per-cent agree with him and that’s what wins us these games.”

The entire Dundas organization was more than welcoming to Tavistock’s team officials, fans and the Gazette during the series. Berg expects them to be strong again next season.

“Big shout out to them. They had one hell of a year. Winning their division was a great accomplishment and something they

can build off of next season.”

Braves general manager Brent Lange, in his second season at the helm, said the win is an incredible milestone for the club.

“I couldn't be more proud of our players, staff and organization overall. It is truly remarkable from where we were last year to this year.”

He added there are many people to thank, all of whom played a role in helping the Braves achieve this milestone.

“This is for the parents and the countless hours at the rinks, the money they have spent for the boys, the fans who show up to every game they can for us. Also, a massive thank-you to all the sponsors. This doesn't happen without the support from everyone, and especially all the little kids here watching and cheering us on.”

Lange said his goal is to have some of the team’s young fans in the lineup five to 10 years down the road and added some time off for his players is much needed.

“We will enjoy a few days off here, get some rest and get the guys healthy again from the sickness going through our room. We will get a few practices in, watch some video and get ready for our next opponent.”

The next opponent will be the Lakeshore Canadiens, who play at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre in Belle River. The newer facility replaced their previous rink when the team (formerly the Belle River Canadiens) moved into the new complex in 2014.

The other semi-final has the North Division winning Fergus Whalers battling East Division winner, the Frankfurt Huskies, who downed the Uxbridge Bruins in six games. The Whalers have lost just one game in 13 playoff games and eight games during the regular season.

Braves ready for Canadiens in PJHL semi-final series

History on Lakeshore’s side as Tavistock makes first final-four appearance

LEE GRIFFI Gazette Reporter

For the first time, the Tavistock Braves will battle the Lakeshore Canadiens in a Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) semi-final series.

The winner will earn the right to battle for the league’s top prize, the Schmaltz Cup.

Not only is this the first time the two teams have battled in the postseason, but it is also the first time the Braves have made the final four.

The Clarence “Tubby” Schmalz Cup is one of the oldest and most significant trophies in Ontario junior hockey.

The trophy was first awarded in 1938 to Orangeville. It was originally the (Ontario Hockey Association) OHA Junior C championship trophy, decided through provincial playoffs. In 1982, the trophy was renamed in honour of Clarence Schmalz, a longtime OHA executive and former president who played a major role in developing junior hockey in Ontario.

Some people feel history means nothing, but Lakeshore, formerly called Belle River, is one of the most successful teams in Ontario’s junior hockey landscape.

During the Belle River years, they were a powerhouse, winning four provincial titles between 1985 and 1995. Since the PJHL’s new look in 2016, the Canadiens won the Schmaltz Cup in 2022 and 2024,

and lost in the finals in 2023.

“We’re proud of our history,” said Canadiens general manager Mark Seguin.

“In the ‘90s, there was a great run, and I think I’m going on year 23 with the team. We’ve always been very competitive and really strong the last 10 years. It’s been a lot of fun, a lot of hard work and the community has always supported us.”

As anyone involved in junior hockey knows, it takes a strong team not only on the ice, but off the ice, to succeed. Seguin said the Canadiens have benefited from an incredible group of people working hard to

help with the on-ice product.

“It takes a commitment from a group of volunteers who work 12 months of the year getting sponsorships and the funds to help us succeed. We have an excellent relationship with our town, right from the mayor down to the guy who sweeps the floor at the arena.”

He added the team’s ownership is handsoff, allowing him to run the team the way he sees fit. Seguin added he and his coaching staff also put in long hours finding the right players.

“We work extremely hard getting the type of players we want. Our culture is

important to us, more important than talent, and we work very hard to get the right type of people in here.”

One very unique aspect of the Canadiens is the team roster – only one player is from outside of the region, something Seguin said is intentional.

“We keep it local; that’s part of my plan. For us to get someone outside of Essex County; they are going to have to be special.”

Goalie and Kitchener native Hunter Welk is in his second season with the team after toiling for a pair of seasons with the Port Dover Sailors.

“He’s been a great goaltender for us. We have had Americans and we have gone outside the area, but our focus is to work hard locally and make us the destination for the best players.”

The Canadiens will be leaning heavily on number-one goalie Boe Piroski, who is in his third full season with the team. He was a part of the 2022-2023 Leamington Flyers Sutherland Cup winning team, who defeated the Stratford Warriors in a seven-game series.

“We’re going to go with Boe, but if we need to change, we can, but he’s a big-time goalie and saves his best performances for the playoffs. He loves the big games and the pressure.”

Much of the Braves' success during their playoff run can be attributed to depth.

Former PJHL player murdered at college bar Stars offering assistance to former teammates and hockey community

LEE GRIFFI Gazette Reporter

The Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) community is in shock following the tragic murder of a former player.

Twenty-year-old Dane Nisbet was shot to death at a bar on the campus of Lambton College last week.

Former East Zorra-Tavistock resident Darren Fergeson played for the Tavistock Braves from 1994-1996 and is currently the vice president of the North Middlesex Stars, Nisbit’s last team.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Dane Nesbit, a tough and talented player whose passion for the game touched everyone lucky enough to know him,” said Ferguson.

“Dane will be remembered for his kindness, determination and always looking out for his teammates. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and the entire hockey community. Our thoughts are with Dane’s family, friends and teammates. Rest in peace, Dane. You will be missed but never forgotten.”

Ferguson said Nesbit committed to going into the military, and at that time, he was cleared by Mooretown to help us out.

“He came out to help us out, knowing that we weren't too sure how long we'd have him for because he was committed to the military. The boys brought him into the dressing room, liked him, and he filled the void when we were only running with three lines. He was a welcome addition to the family.”

Ferguson added the team knew Nesbit wouldn’t be around long-term, but he knew a couple of guys on the team.

“When he was interviewing with us, he was a very bubbly guy, would go through the wall play, one of those players with not a ton of talent, but a lot of heart. And we needed somebody to go out there and help on the third and fourth line. He knew his

They run four lines regularly, as do the Canadiens. Seguin admitted he hasn’t seen Tavistock play in person and while he and his staff are watching game tapes, nothing is better than seeing how two teams matchup in person.

“Watching those tapes and then playing a game; it’s not the same thing. We are looking for tendencies in the tapes but when it comes to speed and other aspects of the game, the tape doesn’t do it justice.”

Braves general manager Brent Lange said he and his staff are also watching Canadiens video to get a feel for their style of play.

“Our coaches are great at breaking down plays and having a couple of options for our players to counter with. Lakeshore is a very strong team with a very successful program over the years, but we will be ready to continue playing Braves hockey and do our best to make this memorable season continue.”

role, and he went out and did exactly that.”

The PJHL requires each team to have an intervention officer, which North Middlesex.

“We have in place Jonathan Bials, who is our youth pastor here in town at Grace Bible Chapel. We're providing support for any team that needs it. We've initiated a plan, and we've talked with the boys already. If there's anything that they need to talk about, anything at all, that Jonathan's been there throughout the year.”

Ferguson said the team has made the support available to the team’s executive, arena staff and anyone else who needs help.

“The arena staff over here is just fantastic. They do anything and everything for you. We want to make sure that anybody and everybody who is even close to this team has an opportunity, that if something is bugging them, there's something they need to talk about, they've got a resource when it comes to North Middlesex Junior C Hockey Club.”

Ferguson added it’s a small, tightly knit community of 1,500 people, and 1,000 people attended the team’s final playoff game.

“So over three-quarters of the town's population showed up. We're a very close family here, and we want to make sure that we're all looked after. And if somebody has something that's on their mind or is bugging them or this has affected them and they need some help, we're offering help.”

The Sarnia Police Service (SPS) said the shooting at a Lambton College bar resulted in the death of Nesbit and left two young adults shot with non-life-threatening injuries.

“The initial police response was extensive, with all available patrol units responding. Once a firearm was confirmed, the emergency response team (ERT) and K9 attended, searching for any additional

Lange said this is an exciting time for the team and added they aren’t satisfied.

“We're hungry and still want more, and want to keep providing the fans, sponsors and community with entertaining hockey to come watch. We can't thank our fans and sponsors enough for everything and all the support this year and in years past. It is very much appreciated.”

Lange, along with the entire coaching staff, are in their second season together and explained last year’s seventh-place finish was all the motivation they needed to do better.

“We got to this place by doing our homework with everything we learned last year as a rookie staff. Zac (Berg), I, the staff and hockey operations team all broke it down at the end of last year. We promised ourselves this year would be much different, and for the future down the road from here on out. We have also brought in and had some pretty good players fall into our lap who want to be here.”

suspects, victims, or weapons. Concurrent to that activity, SPS investigators were interviewing a large number of witnesses and gathering evidence from all available sources,” Sarnia police said in a press release

In addition to the ongoing search for Kyaw “Chin” Doe, investigators have also been working to recover the murder weapon.

In the early morning of April 12, homicide investigators obtained a search warrant for a residence in the 300 block of Indian Road in Sarnia. At 7 a.m., the SPS emergency response team, supported by on-duty patrol officers, executed that warrant. A female was arrested at the scene and police added she was one of two women who had been with the suspects on the night of the shooting.

A 19-year-old woman was arrested on nine charges, including accessory after the fact to murder, obstructing police, carrying a concealed weapon and trafficking a firearm. She has been remanded into custody.

A 19-year-old Sarnia male was held for bail on 10 charges, including accessory after the fact to murder, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a

prohibited firearm with ammunition, possession of a weapon obtained by crime and failure to comply with probation and release orders.

“As his family, friends and our community continue to mourn the loss of Dane Nisbet, we extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy,” said Sarnia Police Chief Derek Davis.

“The Sarnia police will remain focused on supporting those left behind, while relentlessly pursuing swift justice for all those responsible for his death.”

Kyaw “Chin” Doe remains at large and is considered to be armed and dangerous.

The PJHL has not released a statement following the murder of one of its former players. The Mooretown Flags, his former team, did release the following on social media.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Dane and want to extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and everyone impacted. Moments like this can weigh heavily on a community. If you are struggling in any way, please don’t go through it alone. Reach out, talk to someone and lean on the people around you.”

Mother and daughter help lead modern dairy operation in South Easthope

International Women’s Day recently offered an opportunity to recognize the important contributions women continue to make in agriculture, including two local dairy farmers from South Easthope Township who are helping lead a modern, family-run operation in Perth County.

Linda Danen, a University of Guelph graduate, and her daughter, Isabelle, a graduate of Ridgetown College, are proud to be part of the next generation producing Grade A milk at Danendale Farms on Sebastopol Road west of Tavistock.

Together with Linda Danen’s husband, Rob Danen, a Centralia College graduate, the family has steadily expanded and modernized their dairy operation over the years. The Danens first milked cows in a tie-stall barn on Sebastopol Road before moving to a free-stall barn with a parlour system. More recently, the family constructed a modern dairy facility featuring four milking robots and sand-bedded free stalls for their Holstein herd.

Dairy farming has deep roots in the family. Linda Danen was raised on a dairy farm north of Mitchell by her parents, Robert and Maria Baes, while Rob Danen was raised near

Tavistock by his parents, Tony and Jane Danen. The original Danen home farm remains in the family today and continues to serve as the base of their operation.

Like many dairy families in Perth County, the Danens’ farming background traces back to Europe. Rob Danen’s parents milked cows in the Netherlands before coming to Canada, while Linda Danen’s family immigrated from Izenberge, Belgium in the early 1950s and settled in Logan Township.

Linda and Isabelle Danen also acknowledge the contributions of others who have helped support the busy dairy operation over the years. Meagan Weitzel, who lives nearby, has assisted with farm work, while neighbour Ben DeWeerd provided valuable help for many years, particularly during busy harvest seasons. The family credits the support of hardworking students and neighbours for helping manage the daily workload on the farm.

The future continues to look bright for the Danen family. Daughter Justine is now married to Mike Bellingham and living in Guelph, while son Andrew, a Ridgetown College graduate, lives with his wife, Alexis, and their young son, Otto. Isabelle Danen recently married Dillon Ostendryver, who also assists on the farm when available alongside his work with his family’s livestock trucking business.

Historic images recall Tavistock’s early dairy industry and famed racehorse

Historic photographs displayed on the walls of Quehl’s Restaurant in Tavistock offer a glimpse into the community’s past, highlighting both its agricultural heritage and a notable piece of harness-racing history.

Though the two images are unrelated, each captures an important story from Tavistock’s early years and reflects the community’s deep roots in farming and rural life.

One photograph shows the original Tavistock Cheese and Butter plant on Hope Street West in the early 1900s. The facility, now operated by Saputo, processed

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)

milk delivered by local dairy farmers who transported their product in cans from surrounding farms. At the time, cheese and butter production was central to the local agricultural economy and played an important role in supporting farm families throughout the area.

The second image highlights a wellknown harness-racing horse from the early 20th century. The pacer known as “Eel,”

often referred to as the “Grey Ghost,” earned recognition as one of the fastest horses of his era.

Owned by Frank W. Enbricker of Tavistock after being acquired in 1903 from Deerfield, Mich., the grey stallion set a half-mile track record of 59 seconds in 1908 and paced to three world records. With total winnings of $12,450, Eel was the highest-earning pacer of his time.

Dairy farmers unite to support local health and food security

GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent

A new organization made up of dairy farmers from Perth and Huron counties is working to give back to local communities through fundraising efforts focused on mental health, health care and food security.

Huron-Perth Dairy Cares recently promoted its goals at the Canadian Dairy Expo (CDX) in Stratford, raising awareness about an upcoming fundraising event planned for later this year at the Stratford Rotary Complex.

The initiative was inspired by similar programs in other Ontario communities, where agricultural groups have come together to support local charities and health-care organizations.

Committee members Frank Louwagie and Jamie Beaumont, both dairy farmers near Mitchell, say the organization aims to address growing concerns around mental-health challenges in rural communities.

They note issues such as physical illness and food insecurity also affect families, friends and neighbours throughout Perth and Huron counties.

Huron-Perth Dairy Cares is planning a major fundraising event Nov. 26, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Stratford Rotary Complex. The evening will feature live entertainment and a live auction, with proceeds supporting mental-health services at hospitals in Perth and Huron counties, as well as Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada and local food banks.

Organizers say the goal of the initiative is to bring together farm families, agricultural producers and industry partners in support of causes that directly impact rural communities.

The committee hopes members of the agricultural community, particularly dairy producers, will consider supporting the event as part of a broader effort to strengthen the health and wellbeing of residents across the two counties.

Public Notice

2026 Municipal Election Filing of Nominations and Candidate Campaigns

The “Municipal Elections Act, 1996” (herein “the Act”), as amended, provides that every eligible person who wishes to be a candidate in the 2026 Municipal Election, to be held on Monday, October 26, 2026, shall file a Nomination Paper with the Municipal Clerk of the municipality responsible for the office they plan to run for.

Nomination period opens on Friday, May 1, 2026, and closes on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 2 p.m.

Under the Act, a candidate’s election campaign period begins on the day they file their Nomination Paper. Candidates cannot accept or make contributions, and cannot incur any expenses, until their Nomination Paper is filed. Money, goods and services given to and accepted by, or on behalf of, a candidate for their election campaign are considered contributions.

Offices Open for Nomination

The following offices are open for nominations across the Region of Waterloo and its school boards:

• Regional Chair

• Regional Councillor for Cambridge, Kitchener or Waterloo

• Mayor

• Ward Councillor

• Waterloo Region District School Board Trustee

• Waterloo Catholic District School Board Trustee

For School Board (Public, Separate, French Public, French Separate):

• Please consult the municipalities website for the school trustee position you wish to represent to confirm where nominations are to be filed.

For Regional Municipality of Waterloo Offices:

• Regional Chair and Regional Councillor: File in person with the Regional Clerk at 150 Fredrick Street, Kitchener, Ontario. Nomination Procedure

Nomination procedures, required forms, and filing locations may differ between municipalities. Candidates are responsible for ensuring they follow the correct process and meet all legislative requirement such as endorsement signatures and a filing fee.

All interested candidates should contact the appropriate Municipal Clerk to obtain detailed instructions on how and where to file their Nomination Paper, confirm required documentation, and the office’s hours of operation.

For region-wide election information, visit: https://www.wrvotes.com or contact the Clerk’s Office for the municipality where you plan to file your nomination:

Julie Hale

Deputy Clerk

Returning Officer

Region of Waterloo

jhale@regionofwaterloo.ca (519) 575-4400

www.regionofwaterloo.ca/elections

Amelia Jaggard

Municipal Clerk

Returning Officer

Township of Wilmot amelia.jaggard@wilmot.ca (519) 634-8444 ext. 9228

www.wilmot.ca/elections

Amanda Fusco

City Clerk

Returning Officer

City of Kitchener

Amanda.fusco@kitchener.ca

519-741-2203

www.kitchener.ca/election

Ashley Good

Municipal Clerk

Returning Officer Township of North Dumfries agood@northdumfries.ca (519) 632-8800 ext.122 www.northdumfries.ca/elections

Jeff Smith

Municipal Clerk

Returning Officer Township of Woolwich jsmith@woolwich.ca (519) 669-6010 www.woolwich.ca/elections

Julie Finley Swaren

City Clerk

Returning Officer City of Waterloo elections@waterloo.ca (519) 747-8798 www.waterloo.ca/elections

Ontario Pork Congress returns to Stratford in June

GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent

The Ontario Pork Congress (OPC) will return to Stratford’s Rotary Complex on McCarthy Road this June for two days of educational sessions, competitions and family-friendly activities celebrating the province’s pork industry.

This year’s event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, and Thursday, June 18, with organizers promising a mix of longstanding favourites and new features designed to appeal not only to pork producers, but also to the broader community.

Planning for the annual event takes place year-round, with the OPC committee working to develop programming that highlights innovation in the pork sector while providing opportunities for networking, education and entertainment.

One of the most popular attractions on opening day is “Taste the Best,” an event that draws large crowds eager to sample

pork-inspired dishes prepared by local restaurants and breweries. This year’s featured ingredients are pork shoulder and apricots. Attendees can vote for their favourite sample for a chance to win a $50 gift card to the participating restaurant of their choice.

Day one programming also includes an international-workers educational event, a hospitality tent, a barbecue lunch featuring a variety of pork-based meal options and sides, and a kids’ play zone open throughout trade show hours for families attending the event.

The afternoon will also feature the 2026 Hog Jog and Weiner Run, a fundraiser that has traditionally attracted hundreds of participants. Proceeds from this year’s run will support the Emily Murphy Centre in Stratford, an organization dedicated to assisting women and children who have experienced violence.

The first day concludes with an evening

Amy Harron

Municipal Clerk

Returning Officer Township of Wellesley aharron@wellesley.ca (519) 699-3968 www.wellesley.ca/elections

Jennifer Shaw City Clerk

Returning Officer City of Cambridge election@cambridge.ca (519) 239-3280 www.cambridge.ca/elections

Residents in our communities trust our newspapers to provide local news and information, let me help you connect to our readers with your local business.

pig roast.

Events continue Thursday, June 18, with another barbecue lunch included with admission and the hospitality tent open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., followed by an evening pig roast.

Youth programming remains a key component of the event, including the Bacon Maker Classic, a swine show open to participants aged nine to 21. The competition provides young producers an opportunity to showcase their livestock and develop skills related to animal care and presentation.

The second day also features the Past

Presidents’ luncheon, an international workers educational session and a pork quality competition. This year’s competition will focus on individual cuts of meat rather than a full carcass.

Ontario Pork Congress president Victoria Stewart said this year’s lineup offers something for producers, families and industry supporters alike.

Organizers are encouraging people from across the region and beyond to attend this year’s event and take part in the educational opportunities, competitions and community activities planned throughout the two-day show.

SHOW US YOUR WILMOT

Gazette Puzzles

BONNIE AND CLYDE

Meet Bonnie and Clyde, our two bonded lovebirds looking for their forever home!

They are a playful duo, both friendly and outgoing. They can often be seen swinging on their hanging swing or chasing each other around. They're both friendly, though Bonnie tends to want to be the centre of your attention and Clyde tends to patiently observe. They enjoy chirping, playing with toys, and sleeping side-by-side. Like any couple, Bonnie and Clyde do have their arguments, and may require some extra supervision to keep their environment peaceful. They are looking for a patient owner who is able to be attentive to their needs and help them navigate their quarreling. Learn more at kwsphmane.ca

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The secrets of silver: Is it helpful or does it cause long-term harm?

OF HEALTHY TIPS

By Mercedes Kay Gold HEAPS

Living holistically is challenging, especially with so many things out of our control. For overall health with an eye on longevity, minimizing or eliminating toxic habits is the best holistic advice I can give.

From choosing to eat local, homegrown garden goodness to cleaning chemical-free to using all-natural body care, small changes have a tremendous, trickle-down effect.

Are you suffering from a springtime cold? Soothe the body with an elixir of fresh ginger, garlic, turmeric, raw honey and hot water before reaching for an onslaught of over-the-counter options. Family, friends and the media are often conflicting in their well-meant yet often unsolicited advice. As we leap into spring, sniffles are common, and clients often ask about colloidal silver. Here’s the 411 on

this all-purpose, anti-microbial agent with a long history in traditional medicine.

Colloidal silver is a suspension of tiny silver particles in a liquid. A few facts. From around 1500 BCE up until the 19th century, colloidal silver was used to disinfect water and treat minor ailments. In the 19th century, the liquid was used for burns, wounds and in newborn eyes. Until the invention of antibiotics, colloidal silver was the most important antimicrobial agent according to a published study.

Today, colloidal silver is easily found online and in local healthfood stores, sold as a homeopathic remedy. But should you use it? Definitely no if you’re allergic to silver or silver compound.

Colloidal silver is often referred to as a dietary supplement with many claims from manufacturers

The beauty of asparagus

THE WHOLE SCOOP

By Jessie Campbell

Have you ever laid on your belly and looked at asparagus at eye level? It is quite something to lie in the grass and look up at those tall, slender stalks against a bright blue sky – long, green and almost reaching.

Beyond its distinctive appearance, asparagus is rich in vitamins and fiber and has been cultivated for thousands of years.

I love to cook in the spring. If you are eating locally and seasonally, by April, the options can feel limited – meat, eggs and not much green left after a long winter. That is why asparagus feels so exciting. It is one of the first true signs of the season turning, and it brings with it fresh inspiration in the kitchen.

Before I get to the recipe, I want to share another part of our journey.

For many years, I struggled with severe depression. The highs and lows were intense and often overwhelming. I sought help from psychologists, psychiatrists and

of cure-alls from shingles to AIDS/HIV to Covid and cancer plus an array of common ailments.

Topically, I have seen great results with acne, shingles and cold sores. Yes, many people take it internally, but the studies are inconclusive. It is not clear how much to take before it becomes harmful. Experts do know it can build up inside the body. Over time, lovers of colloidal silver may even appear to have a bluegrey tint on their skin as well as the eyes, nails, organs and gums.

The change in colour or Argyria doesn’t cause a major threat to one’s health, but beware. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but even if you stop ingesting colloidal silver, skin will have a new hue forever.

For those who self-diagnose and self-prescribe to avoid

therapists, and followed many different approaches. While some things helped in small ways, nothing ever brought lasting relief.

When we changed how we ate – focusing on whole foods and removing sugar and grains – I experienced a shift I did not expect. Over time, my mood stabilized in a way it never had before. It felt like coming back to life. While everyone’s experience is different, that change was significant for

me and my family.

Some people think we are too strict in how we eat. And yes, cooking everything from scratch – especially for a large family – can be demanding. But for us, the benefits have far outweighed the challenges. Even the higher cost of whole foods has been balanced by spending less time and money on ongoing health concerns.

Here is a simple and delicious way to enjoy those early spring asparagus:

doctors, be mindful. There have been cases of seizures and kidney damage in long-term users. Colloidal silver can also interact with some antibiotics and other medications. Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s imperative before starting anything new to consult your health practitioner.

For now, my advice is yes, colloidal silver is a happy holistic way to help support the healing of minor topical skin conditions from time to time. Internally, the jury, including me, is out as it also depletes selenium, an allimportant trace mineral already deficient in most people.

Before starting anything new, always consult your physician. Have a question? Send me a question at mercedeskaygoldfitness@gmail. com.

Roasted asparagus

Ingredients

• ½ lb fresh asparagus

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2–3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese

• Olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

2. Rinse the asparagus and trim the woody ends. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly coat with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic and Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine, then spread evenly again.

3. Roast for 8-9 minutes. Remove from oven and serve immediately.

4. Any leftovers can be added with Swiss cheese to the quiche recipe from a few weeks back.

Happy spring. This season is a chance to begin again. Step outside, plant something and reconnect with where your food comes from.

“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” —Margaret Atwood

Music is the heartbeat of Calabria

OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO

By Paul Knowles

It was raining fairly steadily as we prepared to set off on a walking tour of the village of Siderno Superiore in Calabria, Italy. The folks in our group were coping in a variety of ways – ponchos, umbrellas, all-weather jackets with hoods. While the clothing options varied, we had one thing in common – a lack of smiles as we moped about the weather.

And then Massimo Diano showed up, playing a happy tune on his button accordion. The atmosphere changed immediately; suddenly, we were a jolly group following our own personal pied piper through the streets of this ancient village.

Diano played songs in the Tarantella folk-dance tradition of Calabria. He also played lots of other songs, including “Roll Out the Barrel” and we sang along. As he played, a window opened up, high in one of the stone houses that lined the narrow lanes. An elderly women leaned out, and Diano stopped walking. “Paul,” he called me over. “Come here. We sing for her.”

“What are we singing?” I asked. “It doesn’t matter,” he laughed, and he sang, and I made possibly appropriate sounds.

When he’s not serenading elderly Italian ladies from the street below their windows, Diano is one of the partners in a tour company in Calabria. His family business – which involves his cousin, Antonio Muia, and other relatives – had been contracted to organize our Senior Discovery Tours visit to this southernmost part of Italy. They did their job extremely well, introducing us to all aspects of life in this lesser-known region of Italy. And one fundamental aspect is music.

Everywhere we went, it seemed there was music. One evening, a local group of four musicians gave us a concert. We listened, we sang and we danced a cumbersome but lively version of the Tarantella.

The selection of instruments used in Calabrian music is fascinating. Small “button” accordions, of course, but so much more. Every song seems to involve enthusiastic use of tambourines, sometimes more than one. Guitars are popular – we witnessed a

Palm Sunday procession in which a band of many guitar players were leading the palm-waving crowd. But as a guitar player myself, I was intrigued that, in addition to a regular, six-string guitar, the Calabrian guitarist also use a five-string guitar, with one much shorter string acting like the drones do on bagpipes.

And speaking of bagpipes, the Calabrians love this instrument, but theirs are built using the entire hide of a goat turned inside out. Most continue to have a bit of goat hair hanging from the large air sack.

Other traditional instruments include a wide variety of flutes – some of which are very similar to what we call recorders. Sometimes, two flutes are played at the same time by one busy musician.

And then there are the lyres, an ancient instrument played with a bow.

In sundry combinations, these instruments make beautiful, lively, joyful music, and from what we saw, the singing that accompanies them is equally enthusiastic and joyful.

And as I said, we experienced a lot of music, from Palm Sunday processions to music at a meal at a family home we were welcomed into.

I have a theory: Calabria is admittedly the poorest and most isolated region of Italy. This is not sophisticated Rome or upper-class Milan. This is a place of down-home people with fewer advantages who have relied on themselves, their families and their neighbours to supply occa-

sions when they can simply enjoy themselves. And nothing does that better than music.

As I said, all two dozen or so of us were welcomed into a family home for a Sunday afternoon, homecooked meal. It was the home of Diano and Muia’s family; the wonderful meal was prepared by three women, including Diano’s mother and Muia’s wife. This hands-on, all-friends-here approach, by the way, is not usual among professional tour companies. This was entirely exceptional, and very special.

The food was amazing. I’ll be writing, another time, about food in Calabria. My mouth is watering as I recall those flavours right now!

But what took the event to an entirely other level was, you guessed it, the music – music that reflected the personalities and the warm welcome we encountered in Calabria.

That welcome was especially evident after a very entertaining demonstration of the various traditional instruments they use. Having left all my guitars at home, I asked Diano if I could play his for a moment when the presentation was done. He happily agreed.

And the next day, a guitar was delivered to me at our hotel in Siderno, mine to use for the rest of our stay. That led to a singalong with our Senior Discovery Tour group one evening, but I did not try to play anything related to a Tarantella!

The music is one reason I hope to return to Calabria, and soon. Then, of course, there are the people, the food, the history, the scenery, and you’ll hear more about all of the above in the coming months.

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.

Would a four-day work week work for you?

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

By Galen Simmons

To me, four-day work weeks have always sounded like something I’d appreciate in theory, but not in practice.

As a journalist and newspaper editor, I have strict weekly deadlines to meet. Regardless of holidays, sick days or work interruptions, my colleagues and I need to a fill a paper with the news, sports stories and advertising our readers have come to rely on each and every week. Often, our week includes working evenings and weekends, and taking a full day off each week simply doesn’t make sense.

But in other workplaces, including nearby at the Township of Perth South, four-day work weeks are becoming more commonplace.

At its April 7 meeting, Perth South council approved a summer schedule allowing public works staff to work four 10-hour days per week between June and September, giving employees a consistent extra weekday off while maintaining service levels.

The change is intended to im-

prove operational efficiency, reduce downtime and provide employees with greater flexibility during one of the busiest seasons for municipal maintenance and construction. Township staff also pointed to benefits including improved morale, better productivity and enhanced recruitment and retention potential.

While the change is modest –and seasonal – it reflects a broader conversation happening in workplaces across Canada about whether the traditional five-day, 40-hour work week still makes sense.

Supporters of the four-day work week argue the benefits go well beyond giving employees a longer weekend.

Research and pilot programs have shown employees working compressed or reduced schedules often report better work-life balance, lower stress levels and improved overall job satisfaction. Having an extra weekday available allows people to schedule appointments, manage errands or spend time with family without

A shift in the schedule. A four-day work week is gaining traction, offering employees greater flexibility and a better work-life balance while maintaining productivity.

needing to use vacation days or rearrange work schedules.

Employers may benefit as well. Many organizations that have tested four-day schedules report improved productivity, reduced absenteeism and lower employee turnover. In a competitive labour market, offering flexible work arrangements can also help attract qualified applicants and retain experienced staff.

Obviously, a four-day work week is not feasible for every job. Emergency services, health-care providers, customer-facing roles and many retail positions require consistent availability across traditional business hours. In other workplaces, reduced hours could

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: End to Wilmot water-taking agreement a sad day

Dear Editor,

What a sad day it was for the Region of Waterloo when the regional council made the decision to rescind the 1980 agreement that put controls on water-taking from Wilmot municipal wells. It was disheartening to see the majority of council members dismiss the delegations of local environmental groups, a water expert and many citizens who have experienced well interference.

Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen’s motion, which proposed a review of the agreement before revoking it and more transparency about the condition of the aquifer and how much water was being used, would have been a reasonable approach and a far cry from what’s been happening over the last few years. Recently, it has come to light that the region has been taking more water from the Wilmot

wells than was allowed in the agreement and keeping it a secret.

Regional staff have stated there are provincial safeguards in place to protect groundwater supplies that were not in place in 1980. When our current provincial government ignores pleas to stop weakening the role of conservation authorities, proposes the privatization of water services, which has proved to be disastrous elsewhere, and does not properly monitor water-taking permits, how can anyone trust that our water sources are safe?

The decision by the Region of Waterloo council demonstrates that its priorities do not include future water security for either its current or future residents.

Dorothy

Wilson, New Hamburg

create scheduling challenges or place additional pressure on remaining staff.

Yet Perth South’s approach shows there are practical ways to adapt the concept without sacrificing service. By extending daily hours slightly, staff can complete the same amount of work while benefiting from a more flexible schedule. Longer shifts can also reduce time lost to travel between job sites, meetings or equipment preparation.

It is also worth noting the municipality’s changes come at no additional cost to taxpayers, while potentially improving efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Flexible work arrangements

will not look the same in every workplace, but the conversation is worth having. As employers compete to attract skilled workers and maintain high-quality services, small changes to scheduling can make a meaningful difference. A four-day work week may not be a universal solution, but initiatives like the one adopted in Perth South show it is an idea worth exploring.

On the other hand, maybe it’s time to start exploring the concept of a universal three-day weekend. I could definitely get behind that, though my boss may say otherwise.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Angry about

expropriation

The article in last week's WilmotTavistock Gazette reminded me why I got so angry over the attempted expropriation.

This is why. Any business transaction, such as the offer by Canacre, must follow the laws of Canada, Ontario and the municipal bylaws. If there is any illegal element in the transaction, then the whole deal is illegal and the principles can be subject to legal action. The Canacre offer was illegal in that the following fraudulent misrepresentations were made to the owners: (1) that the owners had 10 days to consider the offers, which was clearly untrue, and (2) that if the offer were not accepted in 10 days, then the land would be expropriated.

Point two was a real whopper of a lie because expropriation requires that market or above-market value be offered to the owner and that the land must be used for the public good, such as a school, highway, or military base, etc., and not a

factory to employ a fictional workforce of people who are not in Wilmot yet. Points one and two are untrue, which makes the Canacre offer fraudulent and illegal. Did they really think that the owners were hayseeds that could be bamboozled easily?

Concerning legal action, under tort law, Canacre had a duty of care towards the landowners to do business with them but not to harm their interests.

Well, clearly because of the fraudulent nature of the offers, Canacre breached their duty of care and, in so doing, committed a tort against them, which opens the door to legal action by the landowners, possibly, as a minimum for the stress caused by the below-market-value offers and the malevolent approach of Canacre to the land owners.

Regards.

Paul Sedran, New Hamburg

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

Tree Planting

9 a.m. to 12 noon

Let’s Tree Wilmot is partnering with Wilmot Township in a new special project, Mannheim Carolinian Corner. A two hectare site at the NW edge of Mannheim will become a wooded area with a trail system. https:// letstreewilmot.ca/events/ Milne Drive, Mannheim

TUESDAY, APRIL 21

Our Water - Challenges & Solutions

7-9 p.m.

Guest speaker - expert hydrogeologist, Dr. Hugh Simpson, followed by a Q&A. Free online and in-person event. Register at nvecoboosters.com under upcoming events. Questions? Contact nvecoboosters @gmail. com Zion United Church, 215 Peel St., New Hamburg

Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship

12 p.m.

Please register by April 17 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900 Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood

Perth East council meeting

7 p.m.

Council chambers

25 Mill Street East, Milverton

SUNDAY, APRIL 26

Tavistock Mennonite Church is hosting a Syrian Fundraising Meal

12:15 p.m.

Featuring the finest Syrian dishes prepared by the Al Younes family. Proceeds go to the Tavistock Refugee Sponsorship. RSVP by April 19th to: louisecb3@hotmail.com Tavistock Mennonite Church 131 Wettlaufer St, Tavistock

MONDAY, APRIL 27

Wilmot Council meeting

7-10 p.m. Council chambers

SATURDAY, MAY 2

Twin City Harmonizers presents Celebrating 80 Years of Harmony

2:30 p.m.

For tickets, visit www.twincityharmonizers. com, email tickets@ twincityharmonizers.com or talk to a member.

Community Christian Reformed Church 1275 Bleams Rd, Kitchener

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6

Perth East council meeting

9 a.m.

Council chambers

25 Mill Street East, Milverton

FRIDAY, MAY 8

Hammerlock Wrestling Charity Show

Doors open at 7, show starts at 7:30

Professional wrestling comes to WaterlooOxford D.S.S. with an evening of high flying action for a good cause! To buy tickets, visit: events.frontdoor.plus/event/2035. For mor information contact: contact@hammerlockpurewrestling.com or alec@amoorephoto.ca (kids under 12 free)

All proceeds will be donated to W-O to support athletics and other programs! Waterloo-Oxford District Secondary School, 1206 Snyder's Rd W, Baden

TUESDAY, MAY 12

Wellesley Council meeting 6:45 p.m.

Council chambers

4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill

WEDNESDAY, MAY 13

Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship

12 p.m.

Please register byMay 8 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900

Wellesley Recreation Complex, 1401 Queen’s Bush Rd., Wellesley

WEDNESDAY, MAY 20

Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship 12 p.m.

MORNING & EVENING BIBLE READING

Read the Bible in a Year in Community Morning meeting 6:00 a.m. daily Evening meeting 6:00 p.m. daily

Contact Arthur Rosh if interested. Phone number: 226-899-1551

Email address: arthur.rosh@gmail.com

Location to be determined in New Hamburg, Tavistock, Baden, Wellesley, New Dundee, St. Agatha, Shakespeare, Petersburg, Hickson, Punkeydoodle’s Corner and area

EVERY WEDNESDAY

TOPS - Taking off Pounds Sensibly Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.

TOPS is a non-judgmental weight loss support group. Need help on your weight loss journey. For info call Cathie 519-662-9273. St James Church, Baden

Wednesday Night Euchre at the New Hamburg Legion Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

65 Boulee St., New Hamburg

3RD THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH

TAVISTOCK MENS CLUB MEETINGS

Dinner at 6.15 p.m.

No meetings in July and August

Welcome to attend. Phone: 519-655-3573

Website: tavistockmensclub.ca

78 Woodstock St N STAMP CLUB

Oxford Philatelic Society

Meetings: 2nd Tuesday (2-4 p.m.) and 4th Tuesday (7 to 9 p.m.)

September to May

If you have never belonged to a stamp club, now’s the time. Meet new friends, grow your knowledge and collection.

Contact: Don Eaton dhfe@silomail.com

Website: http://www.rpsc.org/chapters/oxford Church of the Epiphany

560 Dundas Street, Woodstock Ontario N4S 1C7 FREE SENIORS ACTIVITIES

Tavistock Seniors Activities @ Tavistock Memorial Hall, 1 Adam St. Tavistock ON, except Shuffleboard

Inside walking Monday & Wednesday morn

TAVISTOCK & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Museum Hours: Third Saturday of each Month April Date: Saturday, April 18 1-4 p.m. (other times by appointment) Email: info@tavistockhistory.ca or call 519655-3334. All welcome.

37 Maria Street, Tavistock Travelling Museum Display: The theme is “Heritage of Hickson Public Central School” - history of School from 1885 to present along with photos, artifacts, school and art work. TDHS partnered with the Hickson 4-H Club for this display that runs until April 27, 2026.

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Location: EZT Township Administration Building (lobby), 89 Loveys Street, Hickson Travelling Museum Display: “Easter Traditions & Egg Business in Tavistock" – history of the 1919 Tavistock Egg Circle and 1946 Tavistock Produce along with advertisements, artifacts & Easter decor. This display runs until April 27, 2026.

Hours: Open 7 days a week

Location: Tavistock & District Recreation Centre (arena lobby), 2 Adam Street, Tavistock CAREGIVER CONNECTION

Free Caregiver Connection peer support groups

Date: Third Tuesday of each month

Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Are you worried about your child or youth? Parents and Caregivers for Mental Health (PCMH) is here to listen, support, and walk alongside you on this journey. Our free Caregiver Connection peer support groups offer parents and caregivers a community of support. Can’t make it in person? Join one of our virtual or hybrid groups! Visit family. cmho.org or email oxfordcounty@pcmh.ca for more information.

Revel Realty Woodstock, 111 Huron Street, Woodstock

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Located in Tavistock, lower duplex, 2-bedroom apartment, $1600 per month plus utilities. Available May 1. For more information, please call Debbie at 519-2726751 or 519-662-4780.

FOR SALE

Shade Trees; Maples, Oaks, Birch, Beech, Honey Locusts, Elms, Magnolia, Hydrangea Tree, Tulip Tree, Crab apples, Ivory Silk Lilac, Chanticleer Pear, Golden Weeping Willows and more. Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarine, Blueberry, Haskap etc. Lots of healthy strong Spruce, Cedars and White Pine for your privacy hedges and windbreaks. Hundred of flowering shrubs. Reg Hours 7am- 6pm Mon-Sat at Martins Nursery c/o Emanuel Martin. 42661 Orangehill Rd., Wroxeter, ON

WANTED

I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi, any pop company, Brewery items Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, Wristwatches and 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 - 519-570-6920.

CONSTRUCTION DENTAL

Brian Stere 519-276-1851 Foundations, Floors, Driveways, Patios Drive Sheds, Barns & Bunk Silos General Contracting - Anything Concrete! www.agcore.ca • bstere@agcore.ca

and Renovations.

250, Tavistock Ph: 519.655.2355 info@mohrconstruction.com

519

HEATING & COOLING

COOL HOULES

HEATING AND COOLING

Providing year-round heating and cooling solutions. Servicing, repair, and installation of furnaces, air conditioners, and hot water tanks. Custom ductwork. CANADIAN BORN & OPERATED BY: SCOTT HOULE 519.703.2400 Coolhoules@gmail.com

2101 info@tavistockdental.ca tavistockdental.ca SERVICES (all ages welcome): dental cleaning & polishing (stain removal), teeth whitening, custom sport mouthguards, oral cancer screening, denture cleanings & more! ONLINE BOOKING @ www.wilmotsmiles.ca 226-880-1648 lisa@wilmotsmiles.ca