Class 1 - 3rd place - Listowel Banner, February edition

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Public Health discusses mitigation of alcohol harm

NICOLE BESWITHERICK

nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

STRATFORD - The Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) Board of Health received a report presented by Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen on Feb. 14 pertaining to a primer for municipalities in Perth and Huron counties on reducing alcohol harms.

This report stems from the Ontario government announcing the expansion of alcohol retail outlets in December of 2023 –beginning no later than Jan. 1, 2026.

On May 24, 2024, the government announced plans to move forward with this expansion with a phased rollout between August and October of last year.

“Research confirms that ex-

panding alcohol availability results in increases in consumption, and consequently increases alcohol-related health and social harms,” the report stated.

“A public health approach to alcohol regulation aims to find a balance between alcohol availability and the enactment of measures to protect public health and safety, raising awareness of the harms associated with alcohol, while removing commercial influences and product promotion.”

The report also noted that the best practice guidelines for offpremises alcohol retail outlets are two outlets or fewer per 10,000 capita ages 15 years or older.

“In 2022, the off-premises retail outlet density in the Huron Perth region was at 5.1/10,000 – well

above the provincial density of 2.1/10,000 off-premises retail outlets,” the report states.

“Any increase in alcohol outlet expansion will further exceed what is considered a best practice limit and may result in increased alcohol-related harms in Huron Perth,” the report continues.

Dr. Klassen told the board that much of the content about alcohol harms and mitigation strategies is not new to the board, but the board has previously supported a comprehensive alcohol strategy, and this work is building on that.

“This report is aiming to provide support to municipalities to implement policies to mitigate harm at the community level. So staff are looking for board support to share the report, including … that primer to all munici-

palities in Huron and Perth on your behalf,” she shared.

Sharing concerns

Earlier in the board meeting during the Medical Officer of Health report, representative for the Town of St. Marys Coun. Marg Luna told the group over Zoom that her local grocery store is now selling beer, wine, etc. She explained she walked in one day and noticed a “big” display of California wines at the front door.

“You almost have to go around it to get past it,” Luna said.

Later on she commented on the alcohol harms report saying, “I’m struggling with having the municipality be responsible for this. It seems like it should be a higher authority, if you will, Continued on page 3

Supplies, equipment, staffing strained by hard-hitting winter storms

DENNY SCOTT

dscott@midwesternenwspapers.com

WALKERTON - The winter storm that rolled in mid-February hit the area with a ferocity that hasn’t been seen in quite some time according to representatives of the Huron, Perth and Bruce Public Works departments, resulting in significant efforts to keep roads open where possible. While there was no single number as to how much snow dropped on the tri-county area, all representatives said this is the worst winter to hit their respec-

tive counties in at least a decade, if not in multiple decades. Official numbers from Environment Canada had snowfall totals as much as 20 centimetres for the area, while local school boards not only cancelled buses, but, in some cases, completely closed all school buildings.

Weatherstats.ca reports that Walkerton, for example, had an average of 30 centimetres of snow on the ground as of Feb. 11, and, after the storm, hit a high of just under 60 centimetres on Feb. 18. Wingham saw similar increases.

PERTH COUNTY

Perth County declared a significant weather event starting on Feb. 18, which lasted until the middle of the day on Feb. 20, however the declaration came less than week after another had been called.

Director of Public Works Bill Wilson said the month has been hard, but storm that rolled in starting Feb. 14 marked an extremely busy time for the operations staff at the county.

While the first of the snowfall was heavy, it wasn’t until the winds picked up that the difficult

decision to close roads started to be considered, Wilson said. He called the storm one of the most impactful he’s seen with the back-to-back snowfall amounts, high winds and lower temperatures causing issues for snow removal.

The storm had an impact on everything from staffing to supplies to the fleet, Wilson said.

As far as supplies go, he said the county needed to stock up more sand for spreading to combat the dangerous road conditions. He said he believes it’s been over

Continued on page 8

HEATHER MACEWEN hmacewen@midwesternnewspapers.com

STRATFORD - Avondale

United Church, in association with Kiwanis Club of Stratford, along with Canadian Mental Health PerthHuron and Huron-Perth Centre for Children and Youth are presenting Raising Resilient Children and Youth: It Takes A Village.

The evening is based on author Dr. Micheal Ungar’s best selling book, I Still Love You – Nine Things Every Child Needs From Their Parents. The book platform is used as a tool to involve, educate and promote local mental health and child development services, as well as involve parents and caregivers with lived experience the unique opportunity to come together as community for the purpose of support.

This free event is happening Wed. Feb. 26, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Avondale United Church, 194 Avondale Ave, Stratford.

The evening features guest speakers, group collaboration, resources as well as refreshments.

Event organizer and Community Engagement Coordinator at Avondale United Church Stratford Aleah Graff shared details on the special tri-partnership between Dana Bazzato, CEO of Huron-Perth Centre for Children and Youth and Catherine Hardman, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Perth-Huron for this event.

“Most of my role is cultivating community partnerships within Stratford and area that we think will bring education and opportunities to learn and grow to Avondale and the community. It is to make the church sort of a vessel for social change and community engagement.” Graff continued “We are very fortunate to be partnering in this capacity as we’re all very focused on social change and learning and growing. Mental health and mental wellness are a huge part of that.”

Best selling book inspiration

The idea to pursue this event in particular came from an event held by Dr. Unger, which was attended by Graff and a colleague in the spring of 2024. “…We thought, what’s something we could do; to help parents or people associated with children have that vote of confidence to know that they are doing something quote-unquote right.”

When speaking on how children growing up in today’s climate may stretch to find ways to resiliency, be it within fostering personal strength, or through the help of family, friends, church groups or caregivers, Bozzato speaks to their unique struggles.

“There are lots of youth who may not necessarily have significant amounts of support from their immediate caregiver for a lot of reasons. Maybe they are not able or they are available, but they themselves struggle with mental health or addiction issues. But when you look at Michael Ungars book and The Nine Things, [on the list] number three is parent child connections.”

To continue to define how a child in this scenario may feel unsure or alienated taking on the responsibility outside themselves, Bozzato describes the facts, feelings and needs a child may require early on.

“Research is clear, especially within the first three to six years [parental support] is very, very essential and if those aren’t there then what buffers the lack of those resources or key relationships would be [Dr. Ungar’s] fourth item in his book, which is lots of strong relationships.”

Cultivating youth supports Cultivating these strong relationships, whether it is alongside parental support or limited supports, there are unique options for connectivity available through municipally funded sources and community sources. Involvement in group scenarios such as sports, enjoyable part time jobs, healthy friend groups,

schooling, coaching or youth group all act in a crucial way when considering the It Takes A Village mentality and the many building blocks available within these options to help raise mentally strong and resilient youth.

Bozzato highlighted the need for both formal and informal resources. “There’s a role for the community centre, there’s a role for the church, there’s a role for the informal – either municipally funded or naturally occurring resources in the community, as well as the formal sources.” says Bozzato, “there is a place for both and the opportunity for us to coexist and show that connection I think is really powerful.”

CMHPH CEO, Catherine Hardman shared how this time of year in particular may hold more adversity for parental figures, however, therein lies an opportunity to highlight what has been accomplished overall and what is going right, as a way to balance out the winter blues and continue to build strong foundations for the family unit.

“There’s a post holiday let down [for a variety or reasons] and everyone may fall susceptible, but The Nine Things That Every Child Needs, I think are really fundamental skills and knowledge parents and caregivers also need to have.” Hardman continues, “I’ve said parenting is probably the hardest job you’ll ever do, but it’s the only one we’re not trained to do. Within that fact, parents can have the opportunity to learn that either what they’re doing is right on or here are some things you could incorporate that are going to support your youth to grow and be healthier adults that may not indeed need our services.”

Attendance info

To continue the conversation and be a participant in this free interactive, confidence boosting event, Email Aleah Graff: eventsavondale@wightman.ca.

Event doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Atwood Lions host Rink Fest

Huron Perth Public Health agenda image

The above graphic shows the number of deaths, hospitalizations and emergency department visits attributable to alcohol among Huron Perth residents aged 15 plus. The percentage is an average year estimate based on the most recent five years of data available.

Public Health ponders mitigation of alcohol harms in Huron and Perth

Continued from front page such as the health unit or the province. I don’t know.

I just can’t see me, as a councillor, walking into my local grocery store and saying, ‘hey, move that display’ because it’s not right being there at the front door.”

Klassen, agreeing with Luna, clarified that this needs to be a strategy which will have multiple components including provincial oversight.

“This is simply meant to be something that supports local municipalities and options that they could consider,” said Klassen. “The province has decided that alcohol is in grocery stores, so there are certain things that cannot be done. But it’s intended, not to suggest that municipalities have total authority or oversight on alcohol – that’s simply not the case, but rather just be a resource of things they can think about that they could do.”

She used the example of allowing alcohol at an outdoor event such as a picnic. Things she said the municipality could consider would be where alcohol would be allowed to be consumed, how to mitigate and enforce it, etc.

Noting that he appreciated Klassen’s response, Chair of the Board of Health Bernie MacLellan said he shares Luna’s concerns for numerous reasons.

“One being this is something that we do not have expertise in to begin with at a municipal level, my next concern would be inconsistency from one municipality to another,” said MacLellan.

“The higher up the policies are developed and enforced would make more consistency throughout the province, or at least through counties,” he added. “I guess I never have a problem with them asking for input, but I’m not sure

how comfortable I am with the responsibility of policing anything after the fact.”

Klassen responded to MacLellan’s concerns, and she explained that it is comparable to when tobacco enforcement began at the municipal level. This eventually became a provincial strategy.

“I mean, right now, the province has been pretty clear on what they’re interested in, in terms of alcohol, which doesn’t allow for movement on those kinds of central strategies,” she noted.

Bob Parker, provincial representative on the Board of Health stepped in to also give some insight. He shared that “as far as enforcement is concerned, alcohol and gaming (Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario) is the area that looks after it, so that if they want to make any changes to how they enforce or anything of that nature, take it up to them.

Police investigate break and enter in Perth; fatal snowmobile collision

PERTH EAST - Police are investigating a break and enter at a residential property, a police report reads.

On Feb. 9, at approximately 12:30 a.m. a break and enter occurred on a Line 33 property located near Perth Road 107. The report continues that members of the Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are still investigating the incident and are seeking for the publics assistance with identifying two persons of interest and a vehicle.

The persons of interest are described as:

Person of interest 1:

- Male;

- White coat;

- White hooded sweater;

- Light colour pants; and

- Walks with a limp.

Person of Interest 2:

- Male;

- Black coat and pants; and

- Ballcap.

Vehicle of Interest:

- Black; and

- Four door SUV.

“The Perth County OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888310-1122. To remain anonymous, call

Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip. ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

Fatal collision in Perth PERTH COUNTY - A collision on Feb. 22 involving a snow mobile has resulted in the death of one individual.

A police report writes that at approximately 8:00 p.m., members of the Perth County OPP alongside local emergency services were called to a single motorized snow vehicle collision near 37 Line and Road 109 in Perth County.

The report says that the lone rider, a 25-year-old resident of Perth South, was taken to hospital and later pronounced deceased.

The OPP Traffic Incident Management Enforcement (TIME) team are assisting Perth County OPP with the investigation. The cause of the collision remains under investigation.

If you have any information that can assist with the investigation, call Perth County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.

Howick fire department gets two grants for fire protection

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

HOWICK - Council here received two reports at its Feb. 4 regular council meeting pertaining to a fire protection grant transfer payment agreement, and the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) certification grant.

The Howick Township Fire Department received notice that they have been successful at securing grant funding from the Ontario Fire Marshal’s Office in the amount of $8,230.45.

It should be noted that this grant is part of a $30 million initiative by the ministry of the solicitor general to improve firefighter

health and safety across Ontario, and funds must be allocated by March 31, 2025.

In the report to council by Fire Chief and Bylaw Enforcement Officer Josh Kestner, it states that the funds will be used to purchase additional gloves and flash hoods for firefighters, as well as a firefighter decontamination unit to be used on scenes of fire.

“This would mean that we replace all that equipment for each firefighter, allowing them to use their current inundated equipment as spares,” Kestner explained.

He added the decontamination unit is part of the department’s goal of decontaminating firefighters prior to them getting back in the cab of the truck after a fire, and Continued on page 6

“This report I see is different, given the fact that it’s about ideas for health promotion with respect to the culture around alcohol.”

MacLellan commented that in terms of tobacco use, tobacco products are not displayed. He then suggested to add onto Luna’s comment, that if alcohol

was not visible at the front of a store where everyone walks past them, perhaps that in itself would make alcohol harms less of an issue.

However, he emphasized that his main concern is staying consistent and not falling down a “slippery slope.”

Approval of the report was moved by Marg Luna and seconded by Bob Parker with all supporting that the HPPH board receive it for information and direct staff to share the report with all municipalities in Huron and Perth counties.

THANK YOU to the businesses and organizations who have had a Listowel District Secondary School co-op student this semester. Our program would not exist without the strong commitment of the community. We rely on employers to provide students with meaningful learning experiences and they never disappoint. Our employers are an integral part of helping prepare our students for a successful life after high school.

The co-op department would especially like to recognize the following businesses for participating in the program:

2nd Chances

9 Line Industries

A&E Clean Sweep

Almarz Dairy

Alpha Agri/Quo Vadis

Altima AnchorMassage Christian Academy

Anna Mae’s Bakery & Restaurant

ARTCO Hospitality Furnishings

B W Feed and Seed

Bast Tire Waterloo

Benshaw Controls Between The Lines

Boshart Industries

Buehler Automotive and Transmission

Bundled

C&L AG Maintenance & Repair

Caressant Care Listowel

Carter Lane Dairy

Chartwell Anne Hathaway Retirement

Residence

Chervin Kitchen and Bath

CSN Collision Centre

Dairy Queen

Delta Power Equipment

Dynamic EFS-plasticsMillwrights

Equipment Ontario

Erie Meats

Family Time Pizza

Fordwich Tire

Gabel Electric, Plumbing & HVAC

Giant GilkinsonTigerFinancial

Gotham Electric Gulutzen Concrete

Hasta Farms

Healthy HeartlandComputers Animal Hospital & Vet

Service Helena’s Clean Care Hill Top HodgsonSiresBros Logging

Home Design Furniture

Huronway Farms

Ideal Supply

J & S JantziCarpentry Electric

Krueger Poultry Farms

La Tienda Mexican Grocer and Takeout Laverne’s Custom Wood Products LDSS French/Art Dept Listowel Eastdale Public School

Employers/organizations interested in partnering with the program can contact: John (JD) Kuepfer, Cooperative Education Department Head 519-275-4470 or john.kuepfer@ed.amdsb.ca

Discover more about co-op and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program at ldsscoop.ca.

The Centre for Employment and Learning - Listowel would like to thank the following co-op employers:

Decision time is here

The time for campaigning is over and it’s up to Ontarians to decide.

With this paper slated to arrive on newsstands and at mailboxes on voting day, Midwestern Newspapers won’t be able to provide results, reaction and insight in print until next week, but residents of local ridings are encouraged to watch our website and X (formerly Twitter) feed for immediate results.

Meanwhile, if there’s time, please vote.

Reluctantly, I’m personally predicting an even lower rate of voter turnout than we experienced in 2022, when the province recorded the lowest voter turnout in history, as only around 43.5 per cent of eligible electors cast a ballot. The reasons for the pessimism range from the wide margin the governing Conservatives hold in preelection polls, to the disorganization in the Elections Ontario machinery resulting from the snap election call, combined with a short campaign period.

Many voters have not received voter information cards in the mail and it’s important to remember that receipt of such is not required to vote. All you need is one piece of identification showing both your name and home address to register and receive a ballot. Photo ID is not a requirement. The distribution of voter info cards has been pretty random this time around. A poll worker in the Town of Minto, where I live, quickly checked my drivers license and looked me up on the voters list at an advance poll on Saturday. She advised me that voters from Harriston were largely reporting not receiving the cards, while those from Palmerston mostly had them.

The ‘Peterson effect’?

Here’s hoping I’m wrong on the turnout. One signal that’s possible may be the oft-expressed outrage around the province about the nebulous reasoning Premier Doug Ford has offered for calling an election a year-and-a-half early. The last time there was such an

extreme example of a majority government calling an election to cash in on a perceived polling advantage was in 1995 and 63 per cent of eligible voters turned out to tell Liberal Premier David Peterson how they felt, dropping his party from 95 seats to 36, while Bob Rae’s NDP got their first shot at governing. Could Ford’s Tories lose this election? Stranger things have happened.

Cold night, warm hearts With governments at all levels struggling to find solutions to the growing tragedy of homelessness across Canada, Ontario and right here in our local municipalities, it’s important to recognize the caring and compassionate community members who are doing what they can at the grassroots level.

Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) events have become an important way to contribute for everyone who desires to help those without shelter.

United Way Perth-Huron’s North Perth Community Committee held a CNOY walk in Listowel on Feb. 22 to raise funds to support for local individuals experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. The local event drew 25 teams, consisting of 121 walkers, supported by 25 volunteers raised a shade under $40,000 for the cause.

At a CNOY walk in Wingham, hosted by United Way’s Northern Huron and Area Community Committee raised just over $30,000 thanks to 95 walkers on 19 teams and 24 volunteers. There are many ways everyone with means can help: donating to food banks, volunteering with supportive organizations or simply advocating for better government support - perhaps by voting for parties with platforms containing support for the vulnerable.

Continued on page 5

Health care matters to rural Ontario residents

Midwestern Ontario “got discovered” during COVID-19. City residents saw the silver lining as business and industry adjusted to the reality of the pandemic - technology allowed them to work from home, and there was nothing to say “home” had to be a condo in a noisy, crowded, COVID-infested city.

Many quickly came to the realization there was cheap real estate (cheap by Toronto standards, anyway), plus scenic, wide-open spaces only a couple of hours away. Midwestern Ontario was close enough for the occasional commute to the office but had a much nicer standard view from the back deck.

While they like the picturesque sunsets and large homes, some of the folks who moved here in the past five or six years have certain complaints, like not being able to get a family doctor. Quite a few are still seeing their city doctor, while others depend on an assortment of pharmacists and other health-care professionals, and local emergency rooms. Which raises another issue. Those emergency rooms are not always open. Having a 24/7 hospital – not big but efficient – right around the corner was a definite plus in the decision to sell the city condo and move here. Had they only known that hospital would soon be hit with service cuts and overnight ER closures.

Combined with the lack of a family physician, the decision to leave the city probably would have been different, especially for the people edging toward retirement age.

Welcome to health care in rural Ontario, where any health-related issue is going to mean time off work,

TURNBACKS

TEN YEARS AGO

2015 - The Perth District Health Unit has released its annual stats on flu shot rates among healthcare workers, showing a decrease among hospital staff. According to the report, 73 per cent of hospital staff in Perth County received the flu shot for the 2014-15 season, compared to 76 per cent last year. Listowel Memorial Hospital came in with the lowest rate among hospitals at 66 per cent.

-After decades of watching their players line up against each other, the Elma-Logan and Milverton minor hockey association join forces starting in the 2015- 16 hockey season.

most of which will be spent driving to various appointments in communities an hour or more away; where a walk-in clinic is not an option; and where an appointment with a specialist is not easy to arrange for people whose only access to the health-care system is a very busy emergency room.

Those of us who have lived in rural Ontario for a while accept the need to travel for health care. It is a fact of life around here, that anything beyond the basics will happen two or three hours away.

However, the presence of the basics, close to home, was reassuring and effective until recent years. Local health-care providers could and did handle everything from horrifying farm accidents and cardiac emergencies, where seconds count, to fish-hook incidents.

Our current government has opted to support for-profit clinics, which function most profitably in an urban environment, while small hospitals and family doctors are disappearing from the rural health-care landscape. This would appear to be somewhat shortsighted, to put it mildly, considering what this part of Ontario contributes. We host Bruce Power and its many suppliers and associated industries. Bruce Power is the largest producer of nuclear energy in Ontario, and the producer of a significant

TWENTY YEARS AGO

2005 - Marilyn Whaley of Listowel was named top whole wheat bread maker in the province at the annual conference of Ontario Agricultural Societies. Her prize was a bread machine.

- The underdog Listowel Cyclones began the playoffs by beating the Stratford Cullitons, the reigning Sutherland Cup champs, in two straight games, ending a long playoff drought.

THIRTY YEARS AGO

1995 - Listowel Christian School students enjoyed a visit from Sgt. Bakelaar, who shared his experiences as a peace- keeper in Bosnia. He told them that war is the worst

proportion of the world’s supply of medical isotopes.

In addition to our thriving agricultural sector and the many businesses and industries that serve it, we have communications technology, finance, tourism, retail and much more.

The people who live here contribute richly to the province in the areas of arts and culture, education, science and technology.

We deserve better than we have been getting from successive governments who tend to act as if nothing of value happens north of the 401.

Health care is just as important to us as it is to folks who live in Toronto. We view a closed emergency department in terms of a beloved relative or friend not receiving vital care in time, of a child suffering unnecessary pain during a long, nightmarish trip through a storm, of a dreaded move to a long-term care facility when home care would suffice, if it were available.

We also view it as a giant minus sign to any company considering setting up a facility in this area – lost jobs, lost opportunities.

We view the increasing urbanization and privatization of health care as a threat not just to our way of life in this part of the province, but to the prosperity of the province as a whole.

The key point in the rural healthcare issue is … we vote.

Pauline Kerr is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter for Midwestern Newspapers. She can be reached at pkerr@midwesternnewspapers.com

thing that can happen to a country. One student was permitted to try on his shrapnel-proof jacket.

FORTY YEARS AGO

1985 - Rural mail carriers found the winter of 1984-85 to be challenging. Huge piles of snow along country roads some- times made mailboxes difficult to reach.

- Over 34 mm of rain over the weekend caused rivers to run extremely high.

FIFTY YEARS AGO

1975 - Playing at the Capitol Theatre was That’s Entertainment, starring Judy Garland, Clark Gable, Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire. All seats were 75¢.

PIECES OF THE PAST

The history of Stillman’s Creameries

CINDY J. SINKO Stratford-Perth Archives

Stillman’s Creameries welcomed community members from across Perth County to visit their Stratford plant on Feb. 24 and 25, 1925. They had issued a public invitation via a special section of the local newspaper a few days before the event, offering free samples of their ice cream and live music along with the opportunity for a behind the scenes tour. Stillman’s original factory was founded in St. Marys by company founder Thomas Stillman around 1915. It had been in operation for a few years when Stillman decided to open a plant in Stratford. Located at 185-187 Ontario Street, the Stratford plant opened on June 10, 1919 at a site previously occupied by Richardson Cartage. When Stillman’s moved in, they completely renovated the premises. They introduced electricity and modern equipment to expand their production capabilities. A new storefront was built, along with a pasteurizing and refrigeration plant, and salesroom.

Besides the special section, the Stratford Beacon Herald ran an article to publicize the public event:

Feb. 21, 1925

Enterprising Stratford Firm to Stage Reception to Public Merits of Stillman’s Products Impressed on City and District by Concern in Full Section of Today’s Issue of The Stratford Beacon-Herald; Five Years of Progress Signalized.

The third section of today’s issue of The Stratford BeaconHerald, devoted entirely to Stillman’s Creameries, Ltd., stands as a monument to the characteristic enterprise of the growing Stratford firm. Neither expenses nor pains has been spared by this company to establish a model dairy plant in the Classic City

and, although only in operation here five years, the progress made during this comparatively short period is a true indication of the appreciation of Stratford and Perth County residents of its efforts. Stillman’s is a household word in the city and environs and the popularity of this firm’s products is growing throughout Western Ontario.

When Mr. T.J. Stillman elected to extend his activities from St. Marys to Stratford, the people of this district saw with pleasure the immaculately white dairy brought into being in the heart of the city. The whiteness of the surroundings which were visible to the passer-by, predicted an equally spotlessly clean condition of affairs in the plant behind where the milk, the butter, and the ice cream, all vital articles of food, were prepared. The reputation of Stillman’s is growing, and while it is known to the trade over a wide area of Western Ontario, the individual consumers in Stratford and in Perth County

realise from experience that the name “Stillman” is a guarantee that no purer not more delicious product can be bought.

Open Night for visitors

The section contains interesting reading matter dealing with the products of Stillman’s Creamery. Ltd., together with other important facts about all branches of this growing industry. The advertising is devoted exclusively to Stillman’s and the front page takes the form of an invitation to everyone to attend a reception at the large plant on Ontario street, Tuesday and Wednesday evening. On these two nights the creamery will be thrown open to the public for its inspection. Capable people will be present to conduct the visitors through the plant and explain its many interesting and educational points to them. There will also be an orchestra in attendance and Dixies, Artic Bars. Stillicious and other famous products of the firm will be supplied to all who care to

sample these delicious dainties. The event itself is unique and will be a real treat to Stratford folk. The section which is appearing today in The Stratford Beacon-Herald is the first time that any one local firm has been entirely responsible for so large an amount of advertising in one issue, and this, together with the time and trouble taken in preparation for the event of next week, makes Stillman’s Creameries Limited, worthy of much credit and appreciation by Stratford citizens.

A few days later, the Stratford Beacon Herald ran a follow up story describing the great success of the event:

Feb. 26, 1925

Huge Crowds Visit Stillman’s Creamery

About 2,500 Citizens Attended Reception Last Night Making a Total of 4,500 to Inspect Plant. The second night of the reception at Stillman’s Creamery was even more successful than the first, the number of visitors being conservatively estimated at 2,500, making a total of 4,500 in all who visited the creamery in two days. There was over 45 gallons of ice cream and 150 gallons of milk, as well as large quantities of cottage cheese and Stillicious given to those who attended.

The visitors seemed particularly impressed with the ice cream refrigerators, which hold 4,000 gallons of ice cream and the method of making this popular delicacy. The monster 1,000-pound churn, from which the butter for the well-known Stillman “Family Package” butter was taken, also “impressed” the visitors. The crowd was conducted through the milk refrigerators, where the monster piles of bottles, with cream “inches down from the top,” impressed them.

So great was the throng last

Election Day Wish List

The first political party I ever joined was the federal Progressive Conservative party. I was 19 years old and was recruited by my grandparents; they were long-term Tories and believed strongly in being politically active at a grassroots level. I even had a Gary Schellenberger lawn sign in the 2003 by-election that saw the last-ever elected federal Progressive Conservative. I participated in the inaugural leadership contest of the Conservative Party of Canada in 2004 … I can still remember walking into the Milverton arena with Grandma and Grandpa.

On the surface, the name Progressive Conservative seems rather self defeating given they are completely opposite of each other. Yet it was the balance required to live out that name that appealed the most to me about the party as a 19 year old. I grew up going to schools that were built under the leadership of the premiers from the Big Blue Machine, John Robarts and Bill Davis. They understood that investment in core public services like education and health care actually saved money in the long term, hence satisfying the fiscal demands of being conservative while still deploying progressive politics for their time. The balance struck by Bill Davis, overseeing the expansion of public healthcare and education in Canada’s largest province while maintaining reasonable debt to GDP ratios is why he is indisputably the greatest premier in Ontario’s history.

The days of those old school Progressive Conservatives, people who sought balance between fiscal responsibilities and social

night that the supplies of Stillicious and cottage cheese ran out before the evening was over. Incidentally it took over three policemen to keep the crowd in reasonable order. There were members of the medical profession and the city’s board of health at the creamery last night. The general opinion expressed was that the plant was much larger and more efficient than was generally imagined. During the entire evening Olin Brown’s orchestra supplied fine music.

Company founder Thomas Joshua Stillman was born in 1871 in Campbellford, Ontario. Before moving to St. Marys, he worked as a druggist in Woodstock, Ontario. Once he settled in St. Marys, Stillman focused on establishing his first creamery, a venture that would later lead to the expansion into Stratford. In 1900, Thomas married Nellie Harford in Victoria, British Columbia. Together, they had three sons. Tragically, Thomas Stillman passed away in Utica, New York, on December 14, 1922. He was returning home from his sister’s funeral that had taken place in Hornell, New York. His remains arrived in Stratford on December 15 and were taken to St. Marys. He was laid to rest in St. Marys Cemetery, leaving behind a legacy of innovation in the dairy industry. ***

Stratford-Perth Archives welcomes donations to the collection and is open for drop-in research from Tuesday to Friday plus other times, including Saturdays, by appointment. For details about what’s available during Reading Room dropin hours and appointments for in-depth research, please visit www.perthcounty.ca/StratfordPerthArchives, call us at 519271-0531, ext. 259 or email archives@perthcounty.ca.

progress, sadly are gone. In the past, I have wrapped up election season with a column of predictions but for our local ridings here in Midwestern the die was cast before the election started which doesn’t make for compelling reading. Instead here are three blurbs with my hopes and dreams for this week’s Ontario election.

Independent wins:

In the 2018 election Bobbi Ann Brady pulled off something we don’t see often; an Independent candidate with no party affiliations beating a full slate of party backed opponents. She beat the PC candidate by over 2,000 votes with the NDP and Liberals far behind to become the MPP for Haldimand Norfolk. She is no stranger to the provincial PCs, she worked for long time member Toby Barrett and was planning on seeking the party’s nomination in an open nomination race. In an event that has become far too common under Premier Ford’s leadership, the party appointed a candidate instead of running an open nomination race. After being shut out at a democratic shot at the job and supported by Toby Barrett and an

army of local volunteers, she ran and won as an independent. I have never met Ms. Brady but if she is anything like Toby then she is one of those old school Tories I mused about above. During my time at Queen’s Park, he was one of my favourites. Like me, he went to the Ontario Agriculture College and enjoyed chatting about whatever was happening in Ontario agriculture. Ford has thrown more resources at the riding than any other rural riding in the province. I’m hoping the grassroots triumph again over the party machine with Bobbi Ann Brady retaining her seat at Queen’s Park.

Local shrinkage:

Premier Ford called an unnecessary election that is costing the province almost $200 million. It was called at the height of Ontario’s worst winter in decades with a campaign so short that many voters do not have voter cards less than a week out and after the advance polls have closed. (Sidenote: you don’t need a physical voter card to vote, just take a piece of ID along with a piece of mail with your current address to your polling station). He has added over 100 billion to the provincial debt during his tenure yet has underfunded healthcare to the point that ER closures in our rural hospitals have become normal. Beyond fiscal mismanagement is the practice of party interference in local nominations. A grassroots nomination campaign that sees aspirants pound the pavement and sign people up who agree with their vision for the local

Continued on page 19

Raftis: parties campaign on doubling ODSP

Continued from page 4 ODSP at issue

Speaking of support for the vulnerable, it’s interesting to note that two of the major parties Liberal and NDP are campaigning on the idea of doubling Ontario Disability Support Program rates. The half-million or so people who rely on ODSP (a stipend no one able to work is eligible for) across Ontario, receive a total of $1,368 per month, an amount several hundred dollars lower than the average rent for a studio (aka bachelor) apartment in the province.

The pledge to double rates is much more specific than vague promises of helping ODSP recipients that have been offered in past elections. Should either of those parties attain power, they shouldn’t be allowed to let the commitment fade into the mist like so many campaign promises of yore. Conversely if the polls prove prophetic and the incumbent government returns to power, Ontarians should continue to let them know they want to see ODSP supported in more dignified fashion.

Contributed photo

Make Happy Tummies (formerly Toonies for Tummies) is a yearly donation program at Food Basics. The program helps students access healthy breakfasts in schools, with 100 per cent of proceeds staying local. This year, Food Basics in Listowel raised $8,666. A ‘pie-tastic’ contest between store managers raised over $400, with the manager with the most votes winning a face full of pie. Assistant Managers Tyler and Nick ‘won’ thanks to a tie.

Listowel 150th events lining up

LISTOWEL - The Listowel 150th anniversary steering committee continues to draw events and activities into the schedule for the celebration this year. While the main event will take place Aug. 1 - 3, the community will acknowledge 150 years of history throughout the coming months. Several groups such as the Legion, Lions Club, Kinsmen, Chamber of Commerce, BIA, Agricultural Society, Listowel Seniors and more have stepped forward to support with organizing events, donating funds or offering their time “to make this celebration one to remember,” organizers state.

Midwestern Newspapers nominated for 19 provincial awards

LISTOWEL - Midwestern Newspapers has been nominated for 19 Ontario Community Newspapers Association (OCNA) 2024 Better Newspapers Competition awards, the organization announced on Feb. 14.

The Listowel Banner was recognized in 12 different categories for the prestigious provincial honours:

- General Excellence – circulation under 1,500;

- Best Editorial – circulation 8,000 and under – Patrick Raftis;

- Education Writing –Kelsey Bent;

- Feature Writing – circulation 8,000 and under –Dan McNee;

- Heritage – Dan McNee;

- Best Feature/News Series – circulation 8,000 and under – Kelsey Bent and Rachel Hammermueller; - Best Freelance/Guest Column – Keisha Fletcher; -Columnist of the Year –Kelsey Bent;

- Reporter of the Year –

Kelsey Bent;

- Best Feature Photo – circulation 8,000 and under –Nicole Beswitherick;

- Best Sports Photo – Nicole Beswitherick; and

- Best Creative Ad – Janine Martin.

The Wingham Advance Times was recognized in four different categories:

- General Excellence – circulation under 1,500;

- Best Editorial Page/Section;

- Photographer of the Year – Cory Bilyea;

- Best News Story – circulation 8,000 and under

– Rachel Hammermueller; and

- Special Section (for Wingham Homecoming feature).

The Kincardine Independent was nominated in the category of Best Feature Writing for an article by Liz Small and for Best Front Page.

“These nominations reflect the talent and dedication of the individuals

who make up Midwestern Newspapers,” said Editor Patrick Raftis.

“The General Excellence nominations are particularly rewarding as they represent the skills and efforts of the entire staff, including journalists, front office, sales force and circulation team.

“It is our honour to serve our communities as the newspaper of record, and we take great pride in keeping local citizens informed.”

Midwestern Newspaper’s 19 award nominations for the 2024 Better Newspapers Competition mark the highest total the company has received since its inception in 2019.

The top three finalists for each competition category were announced on Feb. 14. First, second and third place winners will be announced during the Better Newspapers Competition and Hall of Fame Awards Dinner on April 11.

School board seeks partners to provide before and after school care programs

HURON-PERTH

- Many

when spring weather hopefully arrives. The greenhouse is also planning to support the celebration with blue and yellow flower planters to purchase for your porch or front step.

The committee hopes residents and businesses will paint the town blue and yellow with swags or bows that will be available through Listowel Greenhouses after mid-March

The community is urged to watch for a feature in the Paddyfest parade with a partnership between the committee and Listowel Greenhouses. A booth will be at the Listowel Lifestyle Show in May to promote events and offer more information. A variety of 150th celebration clothing is available to order at CreativeCasuals.com (look under Custom Clothing, password homecoming).

On the main event weekend, Friday Aug. 1 will feature children’s activities in the downtown area, then later a social gathering at the Legion with the regular meat draw and music of Need An Elevator.

The Saturday schedule Continued on page 19

Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) schools provide space for licensed childcare providers to offer before and after school services to families. However, board officials state there is a shortage of childcare providers to meet these needs in some schools, as indicated in an annual survey completed by parents and caregivers.

A Feb. 10 press release notes some schools are in need of programs that pro-

vide in-school before and after childcare. AMDSB is looking for current child care or community organizations, or individuals interested in becoming licensed through the counties to offer this programming.

As Cheri Carter, superintendent of corporate services, points out, “Each year, as required by the Ministry of Education, we survey families to assess their need for childcare, and the results consistently show

that there are not enough spots for everyone who needs them. Many programs have waitlists, and families are forced to seek other options. We are prioritizing support for schools with the greatest need and hope that members of the community will come forward.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the licensing process can contact Laurel Mitchell, Facilities Supervisor at laurel. mitchell@ed.amdsb.ca.

Howick Township fire department receives two grants for fire protection

Continued from front page bringing them back to the fire station.

Kestner also noted that he priced out the equipment back in 2024 when applying for the grant in August, and it was already expected to go up in price. However, he explained that the department was able to scale the grant back, removing one of the decontamination units that was originally part of it.

“We should come out spending as much as we’ve received, so there shouldn’t be any overriding cost,” he said.

The only potential overrun in costs, he added, would be the

threat of US tariffs. As a response to that, the fire department will be pulling the money initially from the fire reserve in the proposed 2025 budget, and would go back through the grant.

“Let’s say there’s a couple hundred dollars additional for shipping, it would just come out of the fire reserve, or we could take it out of operating for services.”

With no questions asked, council approved the first report that council adopt a bylaw to authorize Reeve Doug Harding and CAO/Clerk Caitlin Gillis to execute an agreement between the Township of Howick and His Majesty the King in right of On-

tario as represented by the ministry of the solicitor general for the grant and Ontario transfer payment agreement.

It was also approved that council authorize Treasurer Amy Van Meeteren and the Fire Chief and Bylaw Enforcement Officer Josh Kestner to complete any forms required under the program. This was moved by Deputy Reeve Megan Gibson and seconded by Coun. Marvin Grimes.

FMPFSC Certification Grant

The second report by Kestner explained that on Jan. 17, the fire department was notified of its successful application for the

FMPFSC certification grant.

The department was awarded $855.83 to go toward the purchase of four iPad tablets, and the allocated funds were to be utilized by Feb. 21, which precedes the anticipated approval of the 2025 budget.

Kestner’s recommendation to council was that they grant pre-budget approval to the purchase of these tablets at a cost of $2,642.60 to meet the Fire Marshal’s grant deadline.

“The cost to purchase four tablets was included in the Howick Fire Department’s 2025 Capital Budget at an estimated cost of $3,200, which did not account for grant funding,” the report stated. “As capital items cannot be purchased before the approval of the current year’s budget, and the 2025 Municipal Budget is planned to be adopted on Feb. 25, 2025, pre-budget approval is required to ensure compliance with the grant timeline.”

It was also shared that the final cost is $557.40 below budget, with funds originally designated for this purchase to be drawn from the Fire Reserve. Council approved this prebudget purchase on a motion by Coun. Rosemary Rognvaldson, seconded by Coun. Grimes and carried.

Perth-Wellington candidates discuss housing costs, ER closures, tariffs on agriculture

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

LISTOWEL - Candidates gathered at the Listowel Ag Hall on Feb. 21 for the third and final Perth-Wellington riding debate ahead of the Feb. 27 provincial election.

They shared opinions and concerns and how they will tackle them if elected.

The event, hosted by the Perth County Federation of Agriculture in conjunction with the Listowel Agricultural Society, was attended by four of the seven Perth-Wellington candidates: Jason Davis of the NDP, Matthew Rae of the Progressive Conservative (PC) Party, Rob Smink of the Freedom Party and Ashley Fox of the Liberal Party.

Sarah Zenuh of the Ontario Party, Ian Morton of the Green Party, and James Montgomery of the New Blue Party were absent.

Montgomery submitted a statement that was read by Wellington Federation of Agriculture VicePresident Katie Normet.

“I want to sincerely apologize for missing the debate due to illness. I was looking forward to engaging with the community and discussing the critical issues that matter to all of us,” Montgomery wrote.

“I remain committed to listening to your concerns, advocating for your priorities, and working hard to represent you.”

The moderators for the event were Perth County Federation of Agriculture President Derek Van De Walle and Listowel Agricultural Society President Carolyn van der Heiden.

Health care and ER closures

Candidates were asked about their party’s plans to improve access to healthcare and prevent emergency room closures.

Incumbent MPP Rae said the province “has invested $1.2 million to expand primary care across Perth-Wellington.

“We’re committed to, if re-elected, ensuring that everyone who is currently in Health Care Connect has a family physician or a nurse practitioner by the spring of 2026, with a $1.8 billion investment over the next four years.”

Smink said, “Ontario spends more on health care than any other jurisdiction, and we have the worst results. We have to allow private competition with the public health care system, and we have to promote more holistic

medicine, like chiropractors and naturopaths.”

Fox said health care is a primary focus for the Liberal Party.

“We’re looking at expanding our medical schools, making sure that primary care is considered a job of choice, expanding our primary care and our [nurse practitioners],” she said.

“And this is a very serious issue; two of our top 10 of Ontario hospital ER closures, were right here in Perth-Wellington.”

Davis disagreed with Smink, saying, “Ontario doesn’t spend more than the rest of the country on health care. In 2022 alone, we underfunded health care by $12.3 billion when compared to provincial averages.”

He said the NDP Party would “hire 15,000 new nursing staff so we can stop spending hundreds of millions of dollars by paying for for-profit private nursing agencies instead of hiring them on ourselves.

“We’re going to ratio the number of nurses to patients so that we don’t have nurse burnout,” he added.

“We’re going to hire 3,500 new doctors by increasing the number of residency spots, create a path to practice for the 13,000 internationally trained doctors that are currently in this province but unable to practice, and then we’re going to just fund health care properly.”

Creating affordable housing

To help improve affordable housing, Smink suggested Luban Cabins, which he described as 600-square-foot small homes that can be purchased for $10,000.

Fox said bringing solutions will involve increasing capacity.

“We would eliminate the provincial land transfer tax for first-time home buyers, seniors downsizing and not-for-profit builders, [and] shock and development charges on middle class housing, which should add up to $270,000 per home,” she said.

The Liberal Party plans to also look at rentals and introduce phased-in rent control, resolving landlord and tenant board disputes within two months, and establishing a rental emergency fund for vulnerable renters experiencing evictions and financial emergencies, she said.

Rae explained what the PC Party has already done in terms of funding, including its collaboration with United Way to create affordable housing above the old Music Hall in Listowel.

“The provincial government is providing them with $200,000 [from] a total $1.8-million investment in Perth-Wellington to build deeply affordable housing,” he said. He added Ontario has the most affordable housing stock buildings out of any other province, but said the current federal Liberal government underfunds it by $400 million. “If they decide to come to the table and pay their fair share, we’re happy to continue to build more affordable housing,” said Rae.

Farming concerns

Agriculture was one of the bigger conversations at the debate, with several questions surrounding it, including how to support young farmers and new entrants.

Davis said with the threat of tariffs, the NDP is focussed on removing the cap on the risk management program.

“It was increased from $100 million to $250 million. We’re just gonna remove that cap entirely. Because when we’re talking about stuff coming in from the states, the U.S. subsidizes their farming at incredible rates, and they’re able to flood our market with that,” he said.

He also noted the party wants to encourage farming with a school lunch program, entirely fed with as many Ontario products as possible.

Rae said the PC Party has been working with the agriculture sector on farm housing to allow more than just an accessory dwelling unit, trying to create better “business climate environments” for families to make significant reinvestments in operations and keep family farms going.

Smink said “supporting farmers is not the job of the government. To support farmers, you’ve just got to create another program. The best way to treat farmers is through the free market and capitalism, not socialist policies. We’ve got to cut their taxes and also their inheritance taxes, which stops farms being left to the next generation.”

Fox said the Liberals would look at enhancing the risk management program and introducing right-to-repair legislation, which helps farmers with appropriate tools, enhancing productivity but lowering the cost of business.

She said her party also wants to focus on disease prevention.

Agriculture and tariffs

Each candidate shared how they and their party will defend and support farmers impacted by U.S. tariffs on agri-food products, including Canadian counter-tariffs.

Smink said “tariffs are just a way for Trump to get our attention ... The import/export tariffs are not really a provincial jurisdiction. That’s a federal jurisdiction.”

Fox agreed tariffs are a federal jurisdiction, but noted “the Ontario Liberals would come together and have that supportive approach with the federal government. We have a ... tariff plan which would focus on support for the economy and seamless growth.”

Davis also agreed tariffs are a federal issue. However, he said provincially “we can focus on protecting the jobs we have here, and that includes removing the true provincial trade barriers, as well as doing the buy-Ontario program.”

He said “all provincial regulation builds, as well as any builds that use provincial funding, will be using Ontario built steel, Ontario aluminum, Ontario wood … We are going to focus on using as much of our own resources here as we can.”

Rae said in 2023, Ontario was the number one export destination for 11 of the U.S. states, and number two for 17 of them. He said that was why Ford was in the U.S., reminding governors and White House associates of the importance of Ontario.

Voting information

To view the entire debate visit youtube.com/ watch?v=GDFPDdOOyRY.

The provincial election will take place on Feb. 27, with polls open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information on how and where to vote, visit elections. on.ca/en.html.

Resources in region strained by powerful stretch of winter storms

Continued from front page a decade since the county has had to re-supply midseason like that.

The fleet of winter maintenance vehicle was also pressed, he said, with machines running constantly.

Wilson credited the county’s mechanics with keeping the vehicles on the road where possible and repairing them quickly as necessary.

As far as staffing, Wilson said the significant weather events led to an all-handson-deck situation, with everyone, even foremans and other staff, taking shifts behind the wheel of winter maintenance equipment, to pull through the event. He said the department entered the storm with a full complement of staff, and that everyone showed up.

Wilson praised his staff’s dedication and thanked those who wouldn’t normally have to be driving the plows for stepping up for the benefit of the county.

Other communities were hit hard with the same storm cells that passed over southwestern Ontario, and while some, like Toronto, are forecasting weeks to clean up the snow left over, Wilson said his crews were already hard at work in the latter part of last week cutting back banks and cleaning up sight lines in the area. He said that, within a week, he expects the department to not only be caught up on that work but to be ahead of

Local public works staff have been working hard for the past several weeks to try and keep roads safe and driveable, though Mother Nature hasn’t been making it easier. Despite the fact the storms have abated, the roads can still have large drifts or icy sections, which could result in collisions, like the one above outside of Molesworth on Feb. 24. Everyone walked away from the single-vehicle collision, however it serves as a reminder that careful driving isn’t important only during storms.

the game at that point.

That prediction is in part due to the forecast for the next week, which Wilson said he was appreciative of.

“We’re thankful for the forecast of milder and more stable weather, and lower winds,” he said. “I’m confident we’ll get ahead.”

Bruce County Bill Hayes, Operations Manager for Public Works, said the past two weeks have required significant effort by the county in its responsibility of maintaining roads.

He said the back-to-back snowfalls have been hard on equipment with necessary repairs and maintenance, hard on commuters, and likely resulted in 30-40 centimetres of snow in the area for a grand total of 400 centimetres for the 20242025 winter season. Numerous roads were

closed in Bruce County as a result of the recent storms, which Hayes said was the prerogative of the Ontario Provincial Police.

“The OPP make that determination based on conditions, accumulation and visibility with either the snow or the wind,” he said. “Collisions and investigations also play into the decision.”

While Bruce County has had no problems with resources, he echoed the sentiments of Wilson, saying staff have had to refill winter maintenance supplies, something that hasn’t been a normal practice for numerous years.

As for the impact on the budget, Hayes said the county, during recent warmer winters, has been able to put funds in reserves to prepare for a season like this and, with county council’s direction, those funds

can be accessed if necessary. However, determining whether or not that will be necessary is up to the weather for the rest of the winter season.

Huron County Imran Khalid, Director of Public Works for Huron County, said this has been the hardest winter he has seen in his time at the county, and that some of his longer-serving colleagues say it’s been a decade since they saw this kind of weather.

“We are used to seeing individual storms of 30 centimetres [or more] that happen periodically,” he said in an email to Midwestern Newspapers. “But it has been a while since we have seen a season with this many major storms and where snowfall in general seems to be relentless.”

Khalid said that the storm

has taken its toll on equipment and supplies, but with spare equipment, mechanics and a winter maintenance reserve of $1.4 million, Huron County’s operators were ready to respond to the significant weather events that have hit the area over the past several weeks.

Staffing is also a concern, Khalid said, however the county did have a full complement when the storms hit.

“It has been challenging finding seasonal plow operators for the past few years,” he said. “We have seen the number of applicants decrease over the years. Seasonal operators are a major part of our operations and, at the county, we have been able to fill all positions before the winter season starts, but it is indeed getting more challenging with every year.”

He further elaborated that scheduling through the storm was a challenge as it required “all hands-on deck.

“A staff sickness, for instance, can set us back and require other staff to work

overtime and fill in where possible,” he said, adding the county is blessed with dedicated staff that work the extra hours to keep up with the weather. “It is challenging, but they always find ways to make it work.” Huron County had a number of road closures during the past several weeks, and Khalid explained that, during significant weather, his office is frequently communicating with the OPP regarding road safety and conditions so the police can decide when it’s best to close roads. “We have an emergency management group that meets frequently during weather events where we share information about road conditions and areas that might be impacted more severely, however, we do not provide formal recommendations for road closures,” he said. “Road closures related to weather events and collisions are governed by the OPP and our staff respond to requests for closures by setting up barricades at the request of law enforcement.”

Western Ontario baseball players heading to Cuba for cultural exchange

LIZ SMALL

liz@independent.on.ca

LISTOWEL - Thirtytwo coaches and players from various teams in the Western Ontario Baseball Association (WOBA) are gearing up for a once-in-alifetime experience as they will be travelling to Cuba on March 6 for a weeklong baseball and cultural exchange.

Team members representing Kincardine, Listowel, Clinton, Mitchell, Hanover and Flesherton will be participating.

With the support of Canada-Cuba Sports & Culture,

the group will engage in a unique opportunity to play against Cuban teams while immersing themselves in the country’s rich culture and traditions.

The delegation will be split into two teams - U16 and U18 - each scheduled to play six games throughout the week. These games will offer participants a chance to compete against Cuban talent, experience a different style of play and build camaraderie through the universal language of baseball.

The trip will also provide players and coaches an opportunity to explore Cuban

cuisine, history and daily life. This cultural exchange aims to strengthen international sportsmanship and provide young athletes with invaluable life experiences both on and off the field.

Canada-Cuba Sports & Culture has long facilitated such exchanges, fostering relationships between Canadian and Cuban players through the sport of baseball. For many of these athletes, the trip is a chance to develop a deeper appreciation for the game’s global impact and create lasting memories.

North Perth raises money for housing, homelessness at CNOY

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

LISTOWEL - North Perth and area residents walked for housing and homelessness action at Perth-Huron United Way’s Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) event on Feb. 22.

“Walk for those facing sudden financial challenges and help keep them housed through United Way’s Urgent Needs Fund, providing financial support for local people when they need it most,” the CNOY website noted.

Participants gathered at the front of the North Perth Municipal Office to hear a few words from United Way’s North Perth Community Committee Chair and North Perth Coun. Lee Anne Andriessen, North Perth Mayor Todd Kasenberg, and Carter Whyte.

“We’re hoping to raise $63,000. Here in North Perth, United Way supports counseling for youth, families

and individuals; our 211 crisis hotline; affordable housing projects in downtown Listowel; and providing support to families like baby formula, diapers and hygiene products,” said Andriessen.

“Whether you made thousands, whether you brought in $100 or less than that, we really appreciate all your efforts on behalf of the North Perth Committee for United Way. Thank you for sharing, and thank you for your local love. Happy walking,” she shared to the crowd of participants.

Whyte eventually took the microphone to give the crowd some additional information before heading on their cold walk.

He shared that the number of people who are chronically homeless (meaning for at least six months out of the past year having no place to call home) in Huron Perth is 140.

“So a group just less than double the

size of this group here, is chronically homeless,” he said.

“It’s genuine compassion that’s going to lead to the changes that we need to see in our community… the very first non-profit housing corporation [was] launched by United Way this year. It’s a non-profit dedicated to creating and sustaining mixed rental units to help meet the variety of needs [for] deeply affordable rental units, alongside working rate and market rate units building the housing capacity of Listowel.”

After speeches with words of encouragement, Paddyfest mascot Mr. Paddy led the group with some warm-up exercises before heading on their way around town.

By the time the Listowel Banner went to press, the final tally was not gathered, the website indicated North Perth had raised $42,496 in online donations. Stay tuned for the total in a later issue of the paper.

Dial #211 to reach a network of local supports, specialty centres and services

HEATHER MACEWEN hmacewen@midwesternnewspapers.com

PERTH - HURON - United Way’s 211 Day, a day to spread awareness of the services helpline number, celebrates 25 years of helping connecting people to local community programs, social services and government supports. As a national service, the scope of help and direction of #211 resources is far reaching. The helpline navigates the network of services quickly and easily via a live navigator, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in over 150 languages, for free, confidential support.

Local help quickly

Locally, United Way Perth-Huron is a direct link to obtaining local supports and informationprovided by the many servicebased initiatives, stationed in our area. UWPH is the area’s most comprehensive and reliable source of information on government and community-based health and social services. When #211 is accessed via telephone and language of preference is specified, one is then transferred to a live answer connector staff person. Staff will then ask for a postal code to ensure accurate connecting to the most local services.

Susan Faber, Director of Resource Development and Communications for Perth Huron United Way, stresses the importance of continuing to spread word of the #211 call in service.

“We find that there’s many peo-

ple out there that aren’t aware of the #211 helpline and it’s such a tremendous resource. Anyone can call the number and a live navigator is right there to answer the phone. You can call with any problem, any concern and [the navigator] will ask lots of really good questions and steer you to local social services that can help you through what you’re looking for.”

Dialing #211 puts the caller in quick response to local recourses for help. The overall goal of #211 is to link callers to help as soon as possible, as like other helplines such as #911, however the ‘help’ nature process is more in-depth, Faber explains, “If someone is facing intimate partner violence in the house, they may not know the local women’s shelter name, or what the organization is called. When a 211 navigator is called, they can not only put you in touch with the women’s shelter, but could also work with them over the period of a week, or weeks on an escape plan.”

The option of calling #211 allows for the unfolding of a layered process of help, that many may not know is available or exists.

“All of the pieces that give you a healthy or helpful exit from a relationship are available,” Faber continues, “It’s bigger than a phone call and a quick conversation. The navigators are trained to help people in those type of calls.”

Using the social service number is a great way to help alleviate the call pressure on 911. Faber urges

the use of calling #911 for immediate help, such as accidents and crime, fire and rescue, things of this nature, however, Faber and those working at United Way Perth Huron are always working towards educating people on the benefits of calling #211 as an option in less acute situations.

“By taking [loads of calls] off 911, people are getting the kind of help they need through 211.

The whole system of numbers, 511, 411 and so on, are part of the health system.” Faber shares.

Although calls are kept strictly confidential, an overview in relationship to nature of calls and volume of types of calls are categorized in order to assess most accessed resources locally.

“Calls are all confidential,” Faber explains, “you can’t see who’s calling but we can see what the needs are that people are calling around and the higher ones, of course, are food insecurity. People are calling in to see when food banks are open, when there are community meals and such. Calls around homelessness and housing, people that are being evicted- all of these sorts of phone calls are really high right now, and they really always are.”

Dial #211 for assistance

Dialing #211 for assistance will connect you to a live in person navigator and puts help, quilt literally at your fingertips. For a full and comprehensive list of community supports found within the Perth-Huron living area, visit the UWHP website: www. perthhuron.unitedway.ca.

Cut-out Quick List of local services and Non-profits

-Locally: Perthhuron.unitedway.ca

-For Farmers: infoperthhuron.ca

*Powered by 211

- Veteran Support: cmhahuronperth.com VAC Assistance Service www.veterans.gc.ca

- For Youth: Connect YOUth *Powered By 211 connectyouthperthhuron.ca

- Youth Unlimited North Perth https://yfcnorthperth.com 280 Wallace Ave S, Listowel, 519-291-9296

- Crossing Bridges- Substance and behavioral addiction support Virtual counselling options available www.crossingbridges.ca email: support@crossingbridges.ca

- Hospital, Mental Health and Wellness Services: Huron Perth Public Health www.hpph.ca 161 Inkerman Street West, Listowel. Toll free: 1-888-221-2133

- Listowel Clinic www.listowelclinic.ca 185 Inkerman St. E, Listowel. 519-291-4200

- Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services cmhahuronperth.com

- Crossing Bridges- Substance and behavioral addiction support Virtual counselling available www.crossingbridges.ca email: support@crossingbridges.ca

- Huron-Perth Centre for Children and Youth www.phcentre.on.ca 570 Main St. West, Listowel. 519-2911088 ex. 4221

- Family Services Huron Perth-

Familyhome Offices

Main St. East, Listowel. 519291-5401

- Multicultural Association Perth-Huron www.maph.ca

- 580 Main St W Listowel, Toll Free: 1-888-6274

- Newcomers and Settlement Services www.northperth.ca/recreationculture-community/newcomersand-settlement-services - Partners In Employment www.partnersinemployment. on.ca

- 230 Main St W, Listowel. Toll Free: 1-888-729-9675

- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) www.mcss.gov.on.ca Toll Free: 1-800-565-5762

- VON Services (Victoria Order of Nurses) www.von.ca

975 Wallace Ave. N, Listowel. 519-291-5898

- North Perth Community Hospice www.northperthcommunityhospice.org

135 Main Street West, Listowel. 519-291-5141

- Outreach Support downtown Listowel:

- Salvation Army Family Services/Food Bank

326 Main St.E, Listowel. 519291-2900

- Salvation Army Thrift Store

272 Main St E, Listowel. 519291-2331

- It Takes A Village

https://listowelittakesavillage.ca

148 Main St. W Listowel. 519418-4651

Cyclones split two weekend games

LISTOWEL - With six games left in the regular season, the Listowel Cyclones sat tied for fourth in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Western Division standings after splitting two weekend games. Trailing only the St. Mary’s Lincolns (who have clinched top spot in the division with 78 points), Stratford Warriors (65 points) and Chatham Maroons (65 points), the Cyclones are tied at 59 points apiece with the London Nationals. All five of the aforementioned teams have already secured one of the eight available division playoff spots.

The Cyclones exploded for six goals in a 6-1 thrashing of the Sarnia Legionnaires at the Steve Kerr Memorial Arena on Feb. 21.

Teague Vader got the Cycs off to a quick start with a power play goal just over four minutes in, with assists from Wylie Birkett and Tate Brenner. Blake Barnes replied for Sarnia with a shorthanded goal, assisted by Carter Fogarty at the 15:36 mark of period one.

Listowel scored three unanswered goals in the second period. Teagan Middleton, Jordan Visneskie (on

the power play) and Cam McNevan hit the twine, while Vader drew assists on all three Listowel tallies. Visneskie, Colton Henderson and netminder Riley Arts also assisted on second-period goals. Ezra Fischer and Colton Henderson scored for Listowel in the third period, with Dylan Szymanowski drawing an assist on Fischer’s goal.

Arts turned aside 18 of the 19 shots he faced in the Listowel net, while the Cyclones peppered Sarnia goaltender Ryan Burroughs with 53 shots in total. On Feb. 23 the Cyclones dropped a 7-2 decision on the road against the Chatham Maroons.

The Maroons built up a 5-0 lead (including three power play tallies) before Harrison Meulensteen put Listowel on the board at 3:13 of the third period. Teegan Middleton and Dylan Szymanowski. The Maroons scored two more before the Cyclone’s Jack O’Donnell wrapped up the scoring with a goal at 15:51, assisted by Wylie Birkett and Nathan Schaap.

Ethan Kowatsch made 36 saves in the Cyclones’ net.

Continued on page 19

Listowel Celtics U15 – first local girls organized basketball team hosted tournament for the first time this past weekend

Heather MacEwen photos

Shown above is the first-ever Listowel Celtics all-girls organized basketball, pictured on home court. Their first season kicked off in January 2025. Front row: Briar Raben, Jenna Gallant, Sofia Boyer, Yzabella Encina. Back row: Coach Wayne Donkersgoed, Kiley Patterson, Tessa Paleczny, Elizabeth

HEATHER MACEWEN hmacewen@midwesternnewspapers.com

LISTOWEL - Girls U15 Basketball over the weekend saw Listowel Celtics hosting their first tournament on home court at L.D.S.S., on Feb. 22. The girls played two games, playing Wingham Mustangs in the first round and Stratford in the second to wrap up the five team showdown. First game versus Wingham saw Listowel down in the first half, but continuing to hold strong, climbing back with an eventual seven point run, catching up to the Mustang team and surpassing with 17 to 16 points. However, their competitors continued their run into the remainder of the game, with a strong finish of 24 - 17 for the Mustangs. Jasleen Saini led the Listowel team in points, capping off the first

game of the day with six. The team rebounded the ball well, collecting 34 overall.

Game two versus Stratford

In second round game play against Stratford, the girls went on an 11-point run, to taking a strong lead of 11 - 3 into half time, where once back on the court, the team never looked back, securing the win with a final of 22 - 9 over Stratford. Outstanding game play by Elizabeth Popoola led the Celtics with 19 steals, blocking three shots and gathering seven points. Overall, Listowel dominated the paint, grabbing 27 rebounds. Yzabella Encina followed up in point count, accumulating six of her own.

Game play coming up for Girls Listowel Celtics sees the team travelling to Port Elgin this Saturday, March 1.

U15 boys basketball team travelled to Kincardine

HEATHER MACEWEN

hmacewen@midwesternnewspapers.com

The weather was in cooperation this past weekend for the U15 boys team to travel to Kincardine. The boys played two games before traveling back home Sunday afternoon. Game one challengers, Owen Sound, had the Celtics mounting a comeback after falling behind as many as ten points. The Celtics team started off particularly well in the first half and by halftime saw the boys with an advantage – taking a 11 – 9 lead. However, the lead proved to not have enough momentum, as the team efforts saw during the first half, which had the score slipping away throughout the second half. Game final was a win for Owen Sound, 24 – 17.

Highlights from the game saw Jack Meyer with six points as the Celtics controlled the paint, grabbing 27 rebounds through-

out, wherein Shai Borden lead the team with eight.

Celtics versus Kincardine Game two against the Kincardine Power saw the Celtics team with little rest heading directly into the 2 p.m. game. Despite an onslaught of shots, the rim rejection at Davidson Centre seemed to be unrelenting with multiple Celtic attempts being turned away. The Celtics couldn’t keep up with Kincardine at their home court with the score resulting in a win for the opponent: Kincardine 42, Celtics end with 19 points. The Listowel boys game highlights include a memorable game for Qaiss Ayasso with six points and pounding the glass with five rebounds. Also contributing to points were Eli Henke-Wagler, four points, Jack Meyer with three and Ryder Knapp, Brandon Leak and Shai Borden all ending up with two points each.

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Janet Moon

Janet Elizabeth (Hyslop) Moon of Listowel, and formerly of Walk erton, passed away at Fordwich Village Nursing Home on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in her 92nd year.

Wife of the late Donald Moon.

Mother of Gary & Patricia Moon of Listowel, Paul & Bernadette Moon of Kitchener, Pamela & Robert Schildroth of Lis towel, and Steven & Marianne Moon of Brampton. Also survived by 9 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; Chris & Chantelle Moon, Zoey, Zack, & Zane of Listowel, Shaunacey & Marcus Reeves, Aiden of Kitchener; Ashley & Rob Collins, Nora Fisler of Kitchener; Andrew & Gabriella Moon of Kitchener; Jameson & Rachael Schildroth, Abigail of Waterloo; Kaitlynn &

Steve Jankus, Shelby and Thomas of Binbrook, Megan & Sean Laxton of Orangeville; Victoria Moon of Brampton; and Dakota Moon of Brampton.

Predeceased by her grandson Cody, parents Harry & Sarah Hyslop, and 4 brothers and 5 sisters.

Visitation will be held at Eaton Funeral Home, Listowel on Friday, February 28, 2025 11:00 a.m. until time of the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Interment in Greenwood Cemetery, Owen Sound.

Memorial donations to Alzheimer Society or Trinity United Church would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www. eatonfuneralhome.ca

Events added for Listowel 150th

Continued from page 6 includes a parade, official opening ceremonies, races at Wilson Park, children’s activities at Memorial Park including bouncy castles, face painting, mini golf, entertainers and more. At the high school attendees can reconnect with school mates at a reunion featuring photos, yearbooks and “an opportunity to view the hallowed halls of your youth,” organizers note.

Seniors will be celebrating with a dance at the Agricultural Hall to the music of The Classics. The Hayloft Music Festival will conclude the day on the grounds of the Steve Kerr Memorial Arena. Sunday continues to be busy with a church service, cricket demonstration, old timers ball tournament and drive in movie.

The Listowel Golf Course is planning a tournament at some point on that weekend with details to come. Events may continue to be added, so everyone is urged to look for information on the website: www. listowel150.ca, or on Facebook and Instagram.

“If you have an activity you wish to be included, or would like to help in any way, the committee may be contacted at listowelhomecoming@gmail.com,” committee officials state.

Robert ‘Bob’ Cameron Cochrane of Ethel passed away peacefully with his family at his side, at Listowel Memorial Hospital on Friday, February 21, 2025, in his 70th year.

Loving father of Cassie Cassidy (David Free) of Walkerton, Diane Cochrane of Brussels, and Robert Cochrane (Candace Wilson) of Lucknow.

Proud grandfather of Myles, Max, Chase, Josie, Chloe, Owen, and Jackson. Friend and companion of Darlene Schnock of Listowel.

Son of June (Cathers) Cochrane of Listowel and the late Stuart, brother of Don & Evon Cochrane, Steve & Jennifer Cochrane, and Brenda & Bill Pearson, all of Ethel, Diane & Gary Hutton of Alberta, and Doug & Janet Cochrane of Walton,

and brother-in-law of Brian Purcell. Loved and remembered also by his many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Predeceased by his sister Beth Purcell.

Visitation was held at the Eaton Funeral Home, Listowel on Tuesday, February 25 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The funeral service was held at Knox Presbyterian Church, Listowel on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., with reception to follow.

Interment in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Ethel.

Memorial donations to Ethel Fire Department or Wingham Hospital Oncology Program would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www. eatonfuneralhome.ca

Patrick Raftis photo

The roof of a dairy barn located on Perth Rd. 146, between Line 88 and Line 89 partially collapsed at approximately 6 a.m., on Feb. 25, Perth County OPP confirmed to the Banner. One individual who was inside the structure at the time suffered serious injuries. Animals were injured as a result of the collapse but the extent of the loss is unconfirmed at time of publishing. The OPP, North Perth Fire Department (NPFD) Listowel and Atwood stations, Perth County EMS, and ORNGE responded. Fire Chief, NPFD Janny Pape confirmed that “A young farm worker was trapped under the debris...he is in stable condition,” after being transported to hospital by ORNGE. She continued that NPFD released the scene to the Ministry of Labour at approximately 10:30 a.m., that day for investigation.

Skinner: Election day wish list

Continued from page 5 communities is a key part of making people feel like they have a voice in their democracy.

Ford is neither Bill Davis nor Mike Harris, who at least can be commended for being transparent with his cuts to public services and actually delivering multiple budget surpluses. It would be nice if we saw folks who supported Ford in the past two elections out of long standing partisan ties developed under real Progressive Conservatives decide to abandon him for another spot this time around. While we are all ending up with blue MPPs perhaps we could see the vote share dip while giving an indication of what alternative folks could rally around next time.

A Little Greener:

I have done some phone canvassing this election for Matt Richter, the Green Party candidate in Parry Sound Muskoka who only lost by a couple points in 2018 and has a shot at knocking off the PC incumbent this time around. After listening to Mike Schreiner speak last summer up in Markdale I became convinced that if there is going to be an option that seeks the balance of the PCs of yore then it will be the Green Party. They release fully costed and detailed platforms straight out of the 20th century while offering their elected members full autonomy to vote on specific bills as they wish in order to best represent the needs of their constituents. It was a nice surprise to have a number of beef farmers on my call list and now I know I am not the only farmer who is going

to support the Green Party this election. More locally, it will be interesting to see if they can snag second place in Owen Sound Bruce Grey and Wellington Halton Hills. The candidates, Joel Loughead and Bronwynne Wilton, have strong ties to agriculture along with a solid private sector resume, municipal council experience and the courage to show up at all candidates debates. In the case of Wellington Halton Hills, it is another installed candidate where the local party members were denied an opportunity to have an open nomination race. Despite popular long term incumbent Ted Arnott giving the party months of advance to hold a race, the party decided to slow play it until it bumped up against the election and allowed them to install a candidate under provisions of the party constitution. Second place showings for the Greens in these two ridings would signal there are still folks in our part of the world who value traditions like taking questions in an open forum in front of the people you want to represent and grassroots nomination races that allow communities to elect their candidates, not have them installed from a party office in Toronto.

GO VOTE!

*** Stewart Skinner is a local business owner and former political candidate, who has worked at Queen’s Park as a policy advisor to the Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs. Reach him on Twitter: @modernfarmer

Cyclones split two weekend games, coach outlines challenges SPORTS

Continued from page 16

“The weekend was a tale of two different teams,” said Cyclones Head Coach Jesse Cole.

“Friday night we played a very complete game. Every player played their part. We executed out structure and played to our true identity and Cyclones hockey. There was a reason we had the result we did.

“Sunday we did not show up to play. We were outworked all over the ice. We didn’t buy into our structure and our identity of playing Cyclones’ hockey and the results showed that. Our league is very good this year. There are no easy games. When we commit to playing the type of hock-

ey we need to play and that gives us a chance at success we are a very good hockey team. When we don’t commit to it for 60 minutes we do not give ourselves a chance to have success and Sunday night was a good example of that.”

Cole added: “This time of year is all about consistency in our team game in order to have success. If

we don’t have that commitment we won’t give ourselves a chance at success. If we do commit to it consistently then this team has an opportunity to do something very special this season. The challenge to our players moving forward is their willingness to dig in through adversity and believe in the way they need to play and leave no regrets with the opportunity ahead of us.”

Next action for the Cyclones is a Feb. 28 home game against the St. Thomas Stars. Puck drop is 7:30 p.m. Cyclones are “going green” for the game as a nod to the upcoming Paddyfest celebration in Listowel.