Class 1 - 3rd place - Listowel Banner, July edtition

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Patrick Raftis photo

PATRIOTIC PARADE - The Canada Day parade in the village of Atwood was part of a daylong celebration of the nation on July 1. Parade floats featured plenty of flags and fun entries. The day also included music and games at the Atwood Lions Park, which was also the scene of an impressive evening fireworks display. More photos on pages 18 and 19.

Kasenberg delegates strong mayor powers

MIDWESTERN NEWSPAPERS STAFF

LISTOWEL - The mayor of North Perth is delegating some of his recently granted “strong mayor powers” back to the local council.

On May 1, the Province of Ontario expanded strong mayor powers to an additional 169 municipalities, including North Perth.

This designation grants the mayor additional powers that are intended to help advance provincial priorities, such as building more homes, transit and other infrastructure across Ontario.

In response, Mayor Todd Kasenberg has chosen to delegate specific authorities back to council and the chief administrative officer (CAO) through official Mayoral Decisions. The delegated authorities include:

- granting council the authority to appoint or dismiss the CAO;

- granting council the authority to establish or dissolve committees of council and appoint their chairs and vice-chairs;

- granting the CAO the management of the municipality’s organizational structure and employment matters; and

- directing the CAO and treasurer to prepare the draft 2026 operating and capital budget.

A press release from the municipality states the delegations reflect Kasenberg’s “ongoing commitment to working closely with council, the CAO and staff to ensure the municipality remains efficient, collaborative and accountable to the

Continued on page 5

All-way stop recommended at Mayne Corners

Studies show 22 collisions since 2011 at Perth Line 88 and Perth Road 178

KELSEY BENT

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter kbent@midwesternnewspapers.com

STRATFORD - Perth County’s July 3 decision to designate the intersection of Perth Line 88 and Perth Road 178, which is commonly known as Mayne Corners, an allway stop will be finalized should Huron County Council agree.

The intersection has been the subject of multiple studies over the last five years, stemming from a number of motor vehicle collisions.

According to a 2021 intersection analysis, there

were 15 motor vehicle collisions over a 10-year period at the boundary intersection between Perth County and Huron County, located west of Kurtzville, heading towards Fordwich.

As previously reported by the Listowel Banner, Sergeant Manny Coelho presented a motor vehicle collision analysis for the intersection at the Nov. 17, 2021, police service board meeting. The report covered 10 years of data and broke down the number of collisions at this intersection.

The report noted there had been 15 motor-vehi-

cle collisions at the intersection between 2011 and 2021. Disobeying traffic control and failing to yield the right of way were the causes of 53 per cent of the collisions. There were also four collisions attributed to speeding. Of the collisions at the Mayne Corners included in the report, one caused fatal injuries, five caused nonfatal injuries, and nine caused property damage.

In 2021 the number of collisions at the intersection was more than double the amount compared to any year since 2011.

A separate traffic safety study conducted by Hu-

ron County the year before, in 2020, considered traffic volumes, speeds, collision data, signage and configuration. This study determined that the intersection did not meet any of the warrants for an all-way stop, despite the number of known motor vehicle collisions. The study also stated that the signage was oversized, and a number of other supplemental safety devices were in place, including rumble strips on Perth Road 178.

However, with the supplemental safety devices in place, the intersection remained the location of

motor vehicle collisions, notably a collision which saw one person airlifted to a London Hospital following a three-vehicle collision at the intersection on Aug. 20, 2024.

The subsequent incidents prompted additional requests to improve safety.

The latest study saw Perth and Huron counties enlist RC Spencer Associates to complete a supplemental intersection study which, according to a staff report presented to Perth County on July 3, “examined existing intersection traffic conditions, to identify observed

Continued on page 8

Council apprehensively approves new budget process under province’s strong mayor powers framework

KELSEY BENT

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter kbent@midwesternnewspapers.com

LISTOWEL - Although in one way, public consultation is being removed from the end of the North Perth budget process, but it is not entirely being removed. In fact, it municipal officials say it has never been more encouraged for the public to participate in the budget process. The changes to the budget process stem

from the strong mayor powers being bestowed on the Mayor of North Perth on May 1, 2025, alongside 169 other municipal leaders, by the government of Ontario.

Strong mayor powers change the budget process, previously set out in the Municipal Act. A July 7 report from North Perth Treasurer Ashton Romany stated, that under the strong mayor powers framework, the North Perth mayor is now responsible for preparing and proposing the annual

municipal budget if it is published prior to Feb. 1. The “Mayor’s Budget” does not require formal vouncil approval, instead, it will be automatically adopted if the legislated timelines are met.

According to the staff report, a meeting between Mayor Todd Kasenberg and municipal staff determined that the 2026 budget process will remain largely the same as previously, beginning with a public survey online on Your Say North Perth, which is currently accepting re-

sponses.

Following the public survey, under the new process, staff will present draft business plans to council on Nov. 10, 17, and 19, where councillor deliberation and public participation may occur.

“Staff will seek council’s endorsement of these documents. The intent is that the Mayor’s Budget will mirror the endorsed staff-proposed [business plan],” Romany explained in his report.

Continued on page 8

RACHEL HAMMERMUELLER

rhammer@midwesternnewspapers.com

LISTOWEL - In late April, art and woodworking students at Listowel District Secondary School (LDSS) began creating the design and structure of what would become five out of 10 total farm stands, housing local produce and goods in locations across Perth County.

The Discover More Flavour Farm Stand Project involved LDSS, Mitchell District High School and Stratford District Secondary School. The project invited students to brainstorm what makes Perth County

special, and symbolize this through artistic creations, including the structure of the stands.

The Banner visited Marcel VanLeeuwen’s Grades 11-12 woodworking classes in May to watch student Noah DeVries drill together structural pieces on the farm stand walls. He tells the Banner that he has built a few structures before both in class and personal projects at home, but these farm stands are different from anything he’s worked on. However, following the plans and instructions make it easier.

VanLeeuwen’s class just finished crafting a horse shelter, and his other class was

working on a greenhouse at the time. Hayley King was across the hall focused on cutting out the wooden shapes of symbols that the art class designed.

LDSS art teachers Llana Bruggeman and Jennifer Wallace gave the Banner a tour portraying how students came up with the over 50 art pieces that now dot the stands. The process began with brainstorming in written mind maps of how Perth County is perceived – examples include words like “community”, “maple syrup” and “snow.”

Grade 9 student Maya was, at that moment, projecting her drawing, inspired by Goats on 86, the goat and alpaca farm on Highway 86, onto a large plywood sheet. The students then drew the outline for the woodworking class to carve out.

Chloe, another art student, sketched a maple syrup symbol she said is for her father who taps trees, and a hibiscus flower to represent Listowel Greenhouses. Bruggeman said two art classes worked on this project, with 54 students involved plus those from the woodworking class.

Wandering back to the art studio, students Aimee, McKayla and Lucky had pencil to paper, drafting out their designs. Specifically, they were sketching out a barn, deciding on what colour would be best. They worked off Google images of barns to render their final design – they clarified they’re not farmers, so this is new for them. They tell the Banner that this year in class they’ve learned ceramics, elements of design and shading.

McKayla shared that she likes to create pop art of people and sea animals and wants to be an architect. Her design for the farm stands is a bunny with a sunflower –both things in abundance in Perth County.

Grade 9 art students Corbin, Marshall, Cian and Blake tell the Banner that none of them are farmers or hunters, but they designed symbols in that realm because they’re what represent the area; these include a deer, cow, tractor and corn. They say it’s not hard to draw outlines. Cian and Blake have both worked with wood before. They say they’re all art hobbyists outside of class.

“Education is most impactful when it connects students to their communities in meaningful, authentic ways,” says Dr. Graham Shantz, director of education at Avon Maitland District School Board in a press release.

“Through this initiative, our students have developed practical skills, expressed their creativity, and contributed to something lasting and visible across Perth County. We are proud to be part of this partnership that celebrates youth and showcases the powerful role of skilled trades in building vibrant communities.”

Farm stands are at the following locations, with some not fully ready until the end of July once owners are ready to showcase and sell goods. Perth County Tourism will also be updating the stands in the coming weeks with customized paintings from local artists:

- Maple Grove Market - 5579 Perth Line 55, Monkton;

- Kadylack Sunflower Walk - 5572 Perth County Line 72, Atwood;

- Applebottom Orchard - 9652 Road 142, North Perth;

- Buehler Family Farm - 6985 Millbank Main Street, Millbank;

- DeWetering Hill Farm - 4115 Road 140, Sebringville;

- Martinville Micro Market - 3648 Road 122, Perth South;

- Crazy Glad Lady - 4667 Line 20, Perth South;

- Walkhom’s Farm - 3403 Perth Rd 163, Fullarton;

- Stone House Farm - 6895 Perth Line 24, Staffa; and

- Petals and Foliage - 1729 Perth Road 139, Perth South.

This project “is a shining example of what can happen when community, creativity and collaboration come together,” says Perth County Tourism in a press release. The result being “a fleet of functional farm stands, each one a testament to the energy, talent, and imagination of our youth.”

Council approves purchase of new one-tonne truck for public works

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

HOWICK - After searching around since before passing the 2025 budget, council here will be purchasing a 2025 Ram 5500 120CA 4x4 diesel truck with a Switch-N-Go cable hoist system, dump body, cipper box and toolbox for the public works department and Howick Landfill.

After originally looking into a Ford F-550 for the public works department, Howick Council and staff had budgeted $200,000 for a new truck, which was included in the final 2025 capital budget under transportation.

It explained in the report “tender documents were issued to solicit bids for the supply and delivery of one 19,500 lbs GVWR 4WD single axle diesel engine cab and chassis complete with Switch-N-Go cable hoist system and interchangeable roll-off bins.”

Awarding the tender for the truck to Blue Mountain Chrysler Ltd., the total cost of the Ram 5500 with all the added attachments totals $156,558.78 with unrecoverable HST – resulting in the purchase being $43,441.22 under budget.

The only added costs would include the licensing for the vehicle.

For reference, the 2025 Ford F-550 Super Cab with the Switch-N-Go system, dump body, chipper and toolbox staff had looked into would cost the township $178,646.55 plus licensing.

With the purchase of this one-tonne truck and the listed attachments, the public works department will now have the ability to do roadside tree cutting and chipping internally.

The truck will also be utilized at the local landfill once the front-end dropoff area is created for staff to move waste from the drop-off area into the disposal area.

It was also explained that staff investigated used trucks, but were unable to

find significant cost savings and did not recommend adding these extra systems to a used vehicle.

“By purchasing the recommended new diesel one-tonne truck, the public works department should be able to increase our level of service, get a longer asset management life cycle, better fuel economy, decreased fuel costs and a full warranty on the cab and chassis and the Switch-N-Go hoist system,” staff said in the report.

Also included with the tender was pricing for three 14-inch single-swingdoor dumpster bins which the landfill will need upon reconstruction completion. These bins came in at a cost of $23,028 total ($7,676 each) with unrecoverable HST totalling $405.29.

Inside the report it explained that in order to avoid potential price increases, staff requested to proceed with purchasing the three drop box dumpster bins.

“Anticipated gravel work at the Howick Landfill funded through Gas Tax funds will not proceed due to environmental restrictions for tree removal,” it said in the report. “Tree removal will now begin late fall 2025, with gravel work moving to 2026. This allows funds in the landfill’s 2025 Capital Budget to be reallocated to the purchase of these bins.”

Once it came time for council to make a decision, Acting Public Work Manager Scott Price added “there’s lots of other potentials down the road to add more attachments to it.”

Coun. Marvin Grimes asked if this truck could be of use to Howick’s Bylaw Enforcement Officer Josh Kestner.

Bylaw Officer Josh Kestner responded, “Yes, certainly,” adding that bylaw enforcement would be able to now do more things themselves, such as lawn cutting and property cleanup, rather than contracting it out.

Council approved the recommended motion.

Living snow fences to be included in Perth County Stewardship Program

The program is accepting applications until Sept. 15

KELSEY BENT

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

kbent@midwesternnewspapers.com

STRATFORD - Perth County Council reviewed the criteria for snow fence applications through its stewardship program at the July 3 meeting.

The stewardship grant program supports local landowners and community group’s projects focused on planting windbreaks, block planting, forest restoration, forest health assessments, and community tree sale events.

Previously, at the June 5 meeting, council approved the addition of the living snow fence stream to the Perth County Stewardship Program, which spurred staff to return to council last week with a report outlining the recommended evaluation criteria for applications.

According to the staff report, applications are assessed using a science-based evaluation framework designed to ensure alignment with program objectives. The framework – used by evaluating staff and the Perth County Agricultural Working Group to select successful applicants – considers ecological impact, project feasibility, and social and community benefits.

“This ensures that the application process is straightforward, efficient and respectful of the applicant’s time,” Director of Public Works Bill

Wilson told council.

The living snow fence stream of the program shares much of the same evaluation framework as the landowner stream, with one key addition: the project’s location in relation to a designated highrisk roadway zone.

“With the addition of the living snow fence stream, there have been no changes to the program criteria other than the addition of one criterion, which reflects a project's location in relation to road sections where risk and more prone to drifting conditions,”

Wilson explained. “Projects adjacent to these areas are awarded an additional point during evaluation. This reflects the increased value of establishing snow fence plants in locations where they can deliver the greatest public safety and operational benefit. Other than that, the criteria for living snow fences share much the same criteria as projects submitted in the Landowner stream,”

There are 13 criteria altogether, 12 of which are preexisting and shared with the landowner stream or apply to all. Listed in the criteria is the requirement of planting a minimum of 50 trees in a single or double row, oriented parallel to the roadway. Trees must be planted at least 25 metres from the edge of the road surface, with a preferred setback of 35 metres to enhance snow deposition away

from the roadway.

According to the evaluation criteria, this spacing helps maximize the effectiveness of the living snow fence by allowing snow to settle before it reaches the road, thereby improving winter road safety. Projects that incorporate two or more rows of trees and shrubs will score better using the evaluation criteria. Multirow planting is encouraged under the criteria by awarding additional points to applications that support biodiversity, improve ecological resilience, and extend the lifespan of the planting. While a single row of trees, adequately spaced based on species-specific growth requirements is acceptable; according to the staff report diverse, multi-layered planting are preferred. A complete listing of the criteria is available online at www.perthcounty.ca/stewardship. At this link, applicants can request a copy of the program guide, or seek assistance in applying for a grant.

The application intake period opened on July 2, with a deadline to apply before Sept. 15.

According to a Perth County Stewardship Program release, since the program began in 2024, it has supported the planting of over 18,800 trees, resulting in 27.6km of new windbreak and 26.8 acres of reforestation or rehabilitation of forested lands.

A sign that change is needed

The recent decision to make Mayne Corners a four-way stop, made by Perth County Council on July 3, should highlight that change is needed in the policies that dictate the implementation of safety measures on our roadways, as well as strengthened penalties for those who choose to disobey roadway signage.

According to multiple studies, a total of 22 motor vehicle collisions have occurred since 2011 at the intersection in question; however, the studies seem to indicate that at least seven could have been prevented if it were easier to install safety measures.

A study completed by Huron County – co-owner of the intersection, if you will – stated there were 15 motor vehicle collisions between 2011 and 2021 at the boundary intersection between Perth and Huron counties, located west of Kurtzville, heading towards Fordwich.

That is more than one collision per year, yet that study could not recommend that the county councils build a roundabout or install four-way stop signage at the time.

Local police even went on the record the following year and stated that collisions at this intersection were on the rise and more than doubled compared to any year since 2011.

I think a little context is needed here; these are not just minor fender-benders occurring. Police stated that of the collisions between 2011-2021, one caused fatal injuries, five caused non-fatal injuries, and nine caused property damage.

Perhaps because the first study could not recommend adequate changes, further collisions occurred at this intersection. Although I cannot guess the exact number of incidents, I can say it was enough to prompt further requests to again investigate the safety measures at this intersection.

A second study, this year, was completed and stated that seven additional collisions occurred between 2019-2024.

Had it been easier to implement better safety measures, it seems likely these seven collisions could have been prevented. Among the seven collisions was a collision which saw one person airlifted to a London Hospital following a three-vehicle pile-up at this intersection.

Despite the figures above, this second study almost didn’t get the job done. It should be noted that the 2025 study found that the number of collisions, volume of daily traffic, and traffic signals did not warrant changes.

What did warrant change was visibility issues, specifically for those turning left in the intersection.

I don’t want to sound like a cynic with my next statements, but I question the recommended changes of adding a four-way stop and dusk-to-dawn lighting.

The same 2025 study that recommended the four-way stop to improve visibility also stated that “more than half of the collisions were attributed to disobeying traffic control or failing to yield to the right-of-way, with one of the accidents resulting in a fatality and another with serious injuries.”

I would also like to add that this was a known issue. Local police stated in 2021 that drivers disobeying traffic control and failing to yield to the right of way were the cause of 53 per cent of the collisions at this intersection.

Even though the number of collisions is rising, the statistics from police in 2021 prove that the cause is staying the same.

Continued on page 5

Not the time for, ‘Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!’

It promises to be a long, hot summer – endless days of being grateful for the merest hint of a breeze, an inclination to gravitate to the frozen food section of the grocery store, and a growing preference for Freezies at all meals.

Most of us – sadly, not all – know enough not to leave young children in a car on a sunny day. In the time it takes to dash into the convenience store to check the Lotto numbers, the inside of that car can turn dangerously hot. Little children and elderly people are a lot more susceptible to heat than healthy adults.

Most of us also know to check on elderly neighbours in hot, humid weather. Not everyone has air conditioning. Most larger towns and cities have places where people can go to cool off – libraries, shopping malls and recreation facilities. They also have public transit to get people to those cooling centres.

The same is not true of small communities. However, we have something better – good neighbours, cold lemonade and comfortable benches under shady trees. And yes, it is true that the temperature under a tree can be significantly cooler - up to five Celsius degrees – than out in the sun, and a lot cooler than next to asphalt.

We have a lot more asphalt than we used to, and a lot fewer trees. Climate change is a fact of life, and the impact is being felt in both cities and rural areas.

Regarding cities – we know about climate change. Most of us have grown past either denying it, or figuring it might hit at some future date – except, it seems, for the people re-

TURNBACKS

TEN YEARS AGO

2015 - The Comancheros Car Club of Listowel hosted its 35th annual Show n’ Shine event, coinciding with the club’s 50th anniversary in Listowel, the Comancheros car show featured approximately 200 different entries from throughout Southwestern Ontario.

-Perth County council has deferred decision on proceeding with a new public works building for West Perth,citing concerns after the low tender came in $466,000 over budget.

-With uncertainly surrounding the future of library service in North Perth, the Monk- ton Lions Club put their bid forward to save the Monkton library, amid discussions of a potential closure for library branches in

sponsible for rules about infrastructure planning. Our current provincial government has focused on getting houses built as quickly as possible. This is a commendable goal in many ways, but not if it comes at the expense of green space, and regulations that protect environmentally sensitive features from people (and vice versa).

There are techniques that have proven effective in other countries at reducing temperatures; some are simple, low-cost and traditional, while others are innovative. A quick internet search reveals many concepts - roofing that reflects heat instead of absorbing it, white and light-coloured walls, less glass, better insulation, ventilation methods that use wind, more gardens, less asphalt, and, most of all, a will to reduce the impact of buildings on climate through planning.

Rural areas have the same problems, at least on a small scale, plus others that are proving truly scary.

So far in this part of the country, summer’s heat has been accompanied by humidity. It makes the heat feel nastier and more oppressive, but make no mistake, dry is worse. Climate change has come to mean more wildfires; thousands of acres of Canadian forests have gone up

Monkton and Atwood in favour of a centralized branch in Listowel.

TWENTY YEARS AGO

2005 - Major Andrew McKeever Branch 259 hosted a meal in honour of the Year of the Veteran. Approximately 40 Lis- towel and area veterans attended and were presented with special Year of the Veteran pins.

THIRTY YEARS AGO

1995 - Todd Norman of Gowanstown was a fifth-round draft pick of the Vancouver Canucks.

-Fordwich native and former Miss Paddyfest Carole (Hohennadel) Naedel recorded her first CD, playing a Celtic harp and singing in a clear soprano voice.

in flames in the past few years. We might venture a guess that the answer here is also planning – paying attention to Indigenous knowledge on how to manage forests, for starters, and listening to what the experts have to say about forest management.

Clear-cutting and replanting with a single, quick-growing, commercially valuable species seems to be asking for trouble, in the form of disease and insects. Less biodiversity means less resilience. All it takes to ignite a dry, sick forest is a lightning strike, or a carelessly-extinguished campfire.

Governments tend to focus their thinking on the next election, for a good reason. To accomplish anything, getting elected is essential. However, planning in four-year bursts has most certainly played a role in getting us into the climate mess we are in, and equally certainly, will not get us out of it.

Our government leaders have a wealth of expertise at their fingertips – professional planners, environmentalists, engineers, architects, scientists – people whose job it is to think beyond the next election and even the next century.

We need to decide what is more likely to win the war on climate change – shouting, “Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!” or paying attention to climate experts and planning accordingly.

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

FORTY YEARS AGO

1985 - T-ball league returned to Listowel, with two teams competing in a local league that prohibited scorekeeping or recording team standings. -The Chamber of Commerce made plans to build structures at each entrance to Listowel. Substantial signs of concrete and steel were envisioned, featuring lights and plants.

FIFTY YEARS AGO

1975 - More coverage of Lis- towel’s centennial celebrations included the winner of best float from Spinrite Yarns Ltd. in the “parade of the century.” Its float included a pen of sheep, whose wool was dyed different colours.

With summer comes storms: History of 1916 and 1925 Monkton storms

CINDY J. SINKO Stratford-Perth Archives

As we head into summer, we all know that there is a potential for thunder storms and that there is a risk that these storms could produce tornadoes. On Monday, July 6, 1925, one of these storms came through the small community of Monkton in Elma Township, leaving a path of damage. Based on contemporary storm terminology and the Fujita Scale (which classifies tornadoes from F0 to F5 based on wind speed and damage), the Monkton storm was classified as an F1 tornado. F1 tornadoes are considered moderate, with winds ranging from 115 to 180 kilometers per hour— just above the lower threshold for hurricane-force winds. Such storms can cause considerable damage: uprooting trees, tearing roofs, and overturning outbuildings. The Fujita scale was first introduced in 1971.

Perth County has seen its fair share of dramatic weather events over the years, including dozens of confirmed and probable tornadoes. While researching this topic, I came across an excellent online resource hosted by Western University: The Michael Newark Digitized Tornado Archive (ir.lib. uwo.ca/ntp_mndta). The website “is a collection of source and analysis materials related to tornadoes and other damaging wind events dating back to the late

1700s.” It allows users to explore tracked tornadoes across Ontario from as early as 1790 through to 2010. According to this data, Perth County has recorded approximately 50 tornadoes during that time period. These tornadoes have ranged in strength from F0 to F4, showing that the region has not been immune to extreme weather.

Although Stratford-Perth Archives does not have photographic evidence of the 1925 Monkton storm, we do have the photograph that appears with this article in our collection. It captures the aftermath of another storm in 1916 that also came through Monkton. This earlier storm was notable for producing an F3 tornado, and the photograph vividly illustrates the scale and impact. The 1925 storm was reported in both the Stratford Beacon-Herald and the Atwood

Bee, with the same detailed account appearing in both newspapers.

From the Stratford BeaconHerald on Tuesday, July 7, 1925:

“Miniature Gale at W. Monkton Cuts a Destructive Path. Barn Roofs Detached by Violent Wind; No Casualties Although Considerable Damage is Done. Only Small Belt in Town is Hit. Lightning Shatters Trees, Barn Doors Wrenched Off in Freakish Blow.

(special to The Beacon-Herald)

A storm of cyclonic intensity accompanied by a downpour of rain and a severe electrical display, last evening at about 6 o’clock did considerable damage in this vicinity. As far as is known no one was injured in it. Some old buildings were blown down and

several trees in the neighborhood splintered by lightening. Apparently, the storm only touched a narrow strip of territory, less than four miles wide. At Bornholm, south of the village, there was no sign of rain, and only a little over a mile or so north of the village there was no indication of a storm. It passed to the north east, but by the time it had reached Milverton it had developed into quite an ordinary wind and rain storm.

Gale is Most Violent.

The disturbance, which was one of the most severe ever recorded in this vicinity in recent years, broke out of a sky which was of an ominous brassy or copper color, black at the edges. Severe lightening played around these clouds.

The greater damage was done by the wind. Part of the roof was lifted off the mills of the Canada Flax Company, and a hay barn owed by Charles Diehl, just at the outskirts of the village, was badly wrecked. The roof was taken off the barn of J. Horn, also, near the village. Although no definite reports have been received it is believed that other frame buildings were damaged. Telephone lines through the country were put out of commission.

The force of the wind was astonishing. One farmer lost several broods of young chicks that were in small separate coops.

It is also reported that one auto-

mobile, standing at a farm house with brakes set, was moved forward a considerable distance by the force of the cyclone. Doors were torn off barns, and cattle in fields turned their back to the wind and downpour, and stolidly stood out of the storm.

On many farms, straw was swept up by the storm and blown away in clouds. The rain was so heavy in places that it beat through roofs that were ordinarily considered water proof.”

For those interested in digging deeper into the history of these storms, we also recommend checking out our local newspaper collection through the Stratford-Perth Archives Newspaper Database at vitacollections.ca/spacollections/search. Together, these resources offer a fascinating look at the impact of tornadoes on our community— reminding us of the power of nature and the importance of preserving historical records.

***

Stratford-Perth Archives welcomes donations to the collection and is open for drop-in research from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. For details about what’s available during Reading Room drop-in hours and appointments for in-depth research, please visit www.perthcounty.ca/ StratfordPerthArchives, call us at 519-271-0531, ext. 259 or email archives@perthcounty.ca

Wingham soccer team switches leagues, division to face challenges

DENNY SCOTT dscott@midwesternnewspapers.com

WINGHAM - Soccer players in Huron, Bruce and Perth Counties have the opportunity to play in an elite, Tier-1 league through the Wingham BU18 squad. The team, which is in its third year according to organizer Fred Valdez, was in the U17 tier two league last year and finished in the top three, leaving the players and coach wondering if they couldn’t find more competitive play in a higher league. They attempted to go into tier one competition with the organization they were in, however, without enough teams, the London-area league wasn’t able to go forward. That left the team looking at the Southwest Soccer (SWSRA), which they were able

to join and compete against tier one teams from major centres across Southwestern Ontario.

Valdez said there seems to be a problem with minor soccer, especially at the older age groups, where teams are fewer and farther between, which requires more travel, however joining this league has actually made for less travel.

“Last year, our U17 tier 2 team was one of six teams in the league, and we had to travel to London, Elginfield and St. Thomas,” he said. “The SWRSA has a division of eight, and we go to Stratford, Kitchener, Guelph, Waterloo and Fergus, which is closer for a lot of the players from Wingham, Listowel, and Walkerton.”

The team is currently sitting at fourth place with five wins and two losses (only

one win behind the first-place Kitchener TFC Rep squad), though Valdez says they are constantly improving, and that their first loss had some mitigating circumstance.

“We had lost our keeper last year,” he said. “So this was our first game for our new goalkeeper, and it was on the turf and under the lights, so the team struggled a bit, but they did well.”

That initial struggle, however, has become part of the team’s strength, with a new goaltender and a defensive core that is stopping typically high-scoring teams in the midfield.

Valdez said the team was able to recruit a keeper from Nicaragua who happened to be spending the spring and summer months with the cousin of another player

who lives in Auburn.

“He has been a big add to the team,” Valdez said.

The SWRSL website backs up Valdez’s claim, as the Wingham BU18 squad only has eight goals against for the season so far – one more than the first-place Kitchener TFC team.

The team is enjoying the challenge against the higher-tier teams, Valdez said, and they are enjoying the different experiences they get through the higher-tier competition, like playing on pitches a little different from their home field of Galbraith Field on the edge of Wingham.

“Playing on turf is a new experience,” he said. “The only two teams in the league that play on grass are us and Fergus.” Continued to page 21

North Perth mayor delegates strong mayor authority to council

Continued from front page community.

“By signing these mayoral decisions, we are responding to the province’s mandate while maintaining continuity in key areas related to CAO recruitment, organizational structure and employment matters,” stated Kasenberg.

“I remain committed to thoughtful, informed decision-making that includes public and council

input and continues to serve the residents of North Perth.”

A dedicated webpage has been added to the Municipality of North Perth’s website “to ensure accountability and transparency regarding the use of strong mayor powers,” the press release notes.

The expansion of strong mayor powers by the province was met with opposition by many of the affected municipalities.

Reversal of powers

was requested by council

On April 8, North Perth Council approved a motion directing a letter be sent to the province asking it to reverse the granting of strong mayor powers to the Municipality of North Perth.

The motion was put forward after a dicussion among councillors about the potential impact of the expanded powers.

Kasenberg indicated at the time

he had no intention of exercising some of the additional authority.

“There’s largely no basis for the need for this power ... I’ve already sent essentially the delegation message to CAO Snell that the organization will not be tampered with by me. I will not exercise any of the powers that relate to human resources,” he stated at the April 8 meeting.

“So you know, we’re in sort of a weird zone where powers have

been foisted upon us without, I think, particular care, or thought, particularly egregiously without consultation. And it is appropriate to say that we’re not comfortable with this and that we’re prepared to let them know. I will express again my sentiment that I don’t think the province is going to change this. That’s my read on the attitude at this time, but we might as well have our say,” the mayor continued.

Bent: Lengthy process a sign that change is needed

Continued from page 4

I question if drivers are already not stopping at two pre-existing stop signs, what makes you think they will stop at two new stop signs?

Under the Highway Traffic Act, choosing not to stop at a stop sign, and getting caught in the act, will typically land you a fine of $110 and three demerit points, with an increased fine of up to $500 for those who choose to fight the ticket and are found guilty.

Consider this a sign for change.

We need increased penalties for those who fail to stop instead

I suppose an increased number of stop signs also increases the probability of drivers following the rules and actually stopping. While it’s clear something needs to be done, the recommendation to install dusk-to-dawn lighting at the intersection is also questionable, given the 2025 study stated that all collisions occurred during daylight hours and six of the seven during spring/summer months. To me, this doesn’t sound like a visibility issue. This sounds like the issue is failing to yield, which is a Highway Traffic Act issue.

of spending between $10,00015,000 of tax money on safety measures that I question will solve the problem. Or, we need to lean into what the issue is – that being not stopping – and build a roundabout, which doesn’t require drivers to stop. I don’t blame county council for making this decision. It is pretty clear that something needs to be done to improve the safety at this intersection, and I am convinced that they are well and truly trying to improve public safety.

I am also convinced that, although these changes took five

years to implement, they will occur faster than the changes to the failure to stop fines, or the policies dictating safety measures that I suggested earlier.

In fact, I commend the county councillors at the table for going after the low-hanging fruit, when the reach for other change is much further away.

I do, however, wish that the questions I have raised here were also raised at the meeting. It felt like county councillors were celebrating a long-awaited win, but the game isn't over yet.

I urge councillors and concerned citizens who triggered these

studies in the first place to continue to lobby but this time to the politicians at the province, using this intersection as a example, when seeking changes to the policies that dictate the implementation of safety measures on our roadways, as well as strengthen penalties for those who choose to disobey the laws of the road.

*** Kelsey Bent is a local Journalism Initiative Reporter with Midwestern Newspapers. Comments and feedback can be sent to kbent@midwestern newspapers.com.

Below right: Roy Berfelz stands with his scale model of his grandparent’s barn. Above left:

actual photo of the Yungblut homestead 1900-2007. (Contributed photo)

Local man builds scale model of family barn

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

GOWANSTOWN - Roy Berfelz, 85, brought a to-scale replica of the old Yungblut barn for display at the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church here on June 28.

This model barn has been Berfelz’s side project for a few years now, and more things are being added as the days go on. The barn belonged to his grandparents, Frederick and Louisa Yungblut, and is located on Concession 6, Lot 22 in Wallace Township. The barn has been in the family for four generations, from January 1900 up until now.

Being built as he remembers it to be in the 1940s, Berfelz had assistance from a teen in Elmira, Kendall Brubacher, who helped his vision come to reality following detailed blueprint instructions.

“I started on my own, but I don’t have the equipment. All I had was a hammer and a hand saw,” he said with a chuckle. Berfelz told the Listowel Banner Brubacher helped out with building the barn structure, and it took him about seven months to complete from April to November 2023.

“I left my phone number with him, and I said, if you have any problems give me a call and I’ll tell you what I like or what it should be. He never called me at all. He just went by my blueprints,” said Berfelz. Once the structure was complete, Berfelz then spent his free time getting all the little details together, also to scale. He explained he struggles to find to-scale cattle, and found someone with a 3D printer to help, which printed about three cows per night. After the animals were all printed, he then had to paint about four coats on each livestock.

“It was tedious, but fun,” he said. Since showing his barn to friends and family, Berfelz has received constructive feedback on other details he can add to the model, such as wet marks in the straw, a stone wall, etc. He added he still needs to add forks, brooms and geese to the diorama.

Before he ends up either “in a nursing home or dead,” Berfelz explained he wants to first reach out to the Perth County Museum to see if they would display his model for future generations to go and visit.

AMDSB, HPCDSB approve balanced budgets for next school year

KELSEY BENT

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

kbent@midwesternnewspapers.com

SEAFORTH - The Board of Trustees of AMDSB received and approved the 2025/2026 budget at its June 24 meeting.

A release from the school board stated that “after an extensive internal fiscal review process, where the primary goal was to bring AMDSB's operating budget back into balance, trustees were able to approve a balanced operating budget for the upcoming year.”

Within the 2025/26 budget, the projected revenues and allocations is $276,250,518, while

the operating budget presented includes operating revenues and transfers of reserves of $260,775,753. The capital budget approved includes capital spending of $16,337,270.

Listed in the capital budget is $415,000 for computer hardware; $40,000 for furniture and equipment; $70,000 for vehicles; $15,812,270 for major capital construction – buildings.

More details from the budget include:

-Elementary Enrolment Projection: 10,566.00

-Secondary Enrolment Projection: 4,673.37 (Plus seven high credit)

-Total Revenue: $259,913,248

-Total Expenditures:

$260,775,753

-Operating Surplus (Deficit): ($862,505)

The full AMDSB budget package is posted online at amdsb.ca on the budget and finances page.

HPCDSB Budget

The Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board (HPCDSB) announced in a press release the approval of its balanced budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

“This achievement continues our tradition of fiscal responsibility and dedication to our students and staff,” the release stated.

Every year, school boards are required to prepare and adopt

estimates of revenues and expenditures, with the deadline for the 2025-2026 budgets set by June 30, 2025.

Mary Helen Van Loon, chair of the board, stated in a release:

“Despite ongoing challenges, the Board recognizes and commends the hard work of our Superintendent of Business, Mary-Ellen Ducharme, and her talented team. Their vision, diligence, and competence are truly exceptional, enabling us to consistently present a balanced budget year after year.”

Below is a snapshot of the 2025/26 budget highlights:

-Elementary Enrolment Projections: 3,357

-Secondary Enrolment Projec-

tions: 1,189 (plus 15 High Credit)

-Total Revenue: $85,889,896

-Total Expenditures: $85,889,896.

‘Responsible budget’ Superintendent Mary-Ellen Ducharme emphasized in a release: “Our budget reflects the board’s unwavering dedication to presenting a financially responsible budget that champions student achievement and upholds the rich tradition of Catholic education.”

To review the full budget package refer to the board agendas and minutes webpage online at huronperthcatholic.ca.

Ship2Shore Holidays celebrates 20 years of business

HEATHER MACEWAN hmacewan@independent.on.ca

LISTOWEL - Ship2Shore Holidays has a lot to celebrate in 2025. With two offices, one in Wingham and a newer Listowel location, the team of Kendra Quinlan and Carolyn Borth have 60 years of combined travel knowledge and expertise and are passionate about giving back to the community with ‘20 days of giveaways.’ The 20-year anniversary giveaway, which has been promoted on air through 101.7 The One, began June 16 and is wrapping up July 15. Three qualifiers are picked every week day in the text-in-to-win contest with one random qualifier also winning a $100 gift certificate from a business in Wingham or Listowel. All of this leads up to the grand prize draw on July 15, when one lucky qualifying grand prize winner will be on their way to a destination spot with a $2, 000 travel voucher from Ship2Shope Holidays.

Quinlan shares a special message of appreciation to those who have supported the business over the years, especially after 2019.

“Thanks to all our clients, both old and new and to our families. Thank you to everybody who has believed in us and supported us,” she said. “This contest was a way to have fun and give back as the milestone was achieved.”

From boat to ship

Starting out at a different travel agency in the beginning, both Kendra and Carolyn had high ambitions: meeting businesses quotas and gaining recognition and congratulations for their former company. The idea to begin their own business came as kind of a lark. The more they talked about it the more the dream started to form. They started out in Mildmay at 63 Elora Street. “We loved it. Mildmay was amazing to us. It was a great place to start,” shares Quinlan.

Prior to 2019, the decision was made to move the office to Wingham, with a dream building and location suddenly becoming available.

“[It is] the perfect spot, that I always said

‘if I ever had a business in Wingham, I’d want it to be in the old McIntyre Bakery.’ It had standalone building, parking, big windows in the front,” says Quinlan. Upon reflecting back to the effects COVID had on the business, the team shares just how lucky they are: “It was tough, you know you put a sign on the door that says ‘we’ll be back’ thinking yeah, a couple of weeks and it’s a great vacation you have for a few weeks and it went on and on and on, so it was tough.” She continues, “we survived. I don’t know how we survived sometimes but I remember after COVID was over I received a phone call from one of our sales reps and she said something along the lines of, ‘I’m so glad that you survived’. Out of 465 independent travel agencies before COVID, there were only 55 left after.”

With the addition of the Listowel office last year, located at the Victorian Inn and Spa, the team continues to fill the consistent need for travel in the area. Offering a variety of travel options, including Explore Canada, Adventures Abroad, All Inclusive,

Cruises, Destination Weddings, Bus tours and even specializing in Disney trip planning with a Disney certified agent.

Making Disney dreams come true

Ship2Shore Travel Agent Heather O’Connell, acquired a University degree at the ‘Disney College of Knowledge’ in order to fill a niche market; catering to clientele who are looking to plan their perfect family, couples or group trip to Walt Disney World.

Borth, who specializes in cruising Europe and the tropics says people are prefer Europe as a current travel hot spot, opposed to the United States.

“I’m booking a ton of Europe right now,” Borth said. “People don’t want to do the US and are going across the pond. I’m booking a lot of that for next year.”

With the cruising industry picking up again, Borth is also booking ahead, “COVID had a bit of an impact on it but if you like cruising, you’ll go no matter what. I’ve got a lot of cruises in the books right now and people are booking into next year.”

Small town agency makes waves

When reflecting upon business memories throughout the years, Quinlan shares a story of a former travel agent from Meaford, “A lot of people remember when we we’re in Mildmay and we had an agent named Mary, she was our Holland-America rep. She showed up at our office on her Harley Davidson. She lived up in Meaford, Collingwood area and there was some cabins that had been sold on the ‘round the world cruise’ and I guess she got the report and was like, “where [in the world] is Mildmay?” She got on her motorcycle and she pulled up in front of the office where this little agency, and how many people live in Mildmay, 1000? and we’re booking these round the world cruise cabins. That was pretty cool.”

The pair of business owners have also helped people with their “bucket lists” planning trips of a lifetime, as well as generational trips with multiple family members enjoying a core memory experience. “We booked a mother-daughter cruise and it was mothers, daughters, grandmas, cousins. There was 51 [guests] and they all did a cruise together.” Shares Borth.

Current Chamber trip

The business has had many achievements over the years and as North Perth Chamber of Commerce members, the owners have teamed with the chamber and are currently offering a 12-day trip to Sicily and Malta in May of 2026, consisting of a jam packed itinerary for a minimum 20 people.

“Discover stunning landscapes, rich history, and iconic landmarks. Begin in Taormina, exploring Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, before heading to Syracuse to discover ancient treasures like the Roman Amphitheatre, Greek Theatre, and Cave of the Cordari. Continue to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, home to the Temple of Concordia. Enjoy a coastal boat tour from Taormina to Giardini Naxos, with breathtaking Ionian Coast views and the Grotta Azzurra. Explore the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit Lipari and Vulcano. After Sicily, travel to Malta, starting in Valletta with a guided walking tour, covering landmarks such as Republic Street, Castille Square, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, while enjoying traditional Maltese street food. Explore Mdina, Malta’s 'Silent City,' with its narrow streets, panoramic views, and medieval architecture. Conclude with visits to the Dingli Cliffs, offering stunning Mediterranean views, and the serene San Anton Botanical Gardens, known for their lush greenery and diverse plant collection.” states the chamber website.

Celebratory anniversary office parties will be held for both Wingham and Listowel offices in July. As for the impact the business had in the lives of their clients, Carolyn shares the same thankful sentiment as her business partner Kendra, “We’re just happy that we get to do what we do and that we, most days, love everything that we do. For the most part we love our job and we’re glad that we can get people those happy experiences…we’re selling good things.”

For more information on “20 Days of Giveaways”, visit ship2shoreholidays.ca or 1017theone.ca.

Dance production

Peggy Haasnoot photos

Illustrated Movement Dance Academy staged ‘The Gratest Show,’ at the Palmerston and District Community Centre on June 21 and 22. The circus-themed production showcased students from the school’s various dance disciplines. The Palmerston-baseed school draws students from throughout the local region and offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary modern, hip hop, acrobatic dance, aerial hoops and silks and musical theatre.

Study recommends all-way stop at Perth-Huron border intersection

Continued from front page safety concerns, and to offer potential geometric and/or traffic control improvements that may mitigate adverse impacts to intersection safety.”

This study recommended the intersection be designated as an all-way stop by way of an amendment to Bylaw 2956: Designating Through Highways, citing visibility issues. It should be noted that the number of collisions, volume of daily traffic, and traffic signals did not warrant an all-way stop.

Currently, the intersection has a stop sign on Perth Road 178 with the intersecting Perth Line 88 being a through road.

“There is a horizontal curve, on Perth Line 88, southeast of the intersection that does not require a warning speed reduction, meaning that it is designed to be safely navigated at the posted speed limit of 80km,” Executive Director of Public Works John

McClelland explained to council on July 3. Other observations noted in the 2025 study included:

- The pavement approaching and through the intersection is in good condition with some minor cracking present within the intersection;

- The vertical curves located to the north and east of the intersection do not create a site obstruction for intersection traffic;

- The stop signs installed on Perth Road 178/Huron Road 34 are both oversized and installed within the guidelines as set out in the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM). Both stop signs have eight red LED flashing lamps embedded at the points of the sign;

- The Stop Ahead signs installed on Perth Road 178/ Huron Road 34 are both oversized and installed within the guidelines of the OTM. Both Stop Ahead signs have flashing yellow lights above the sign;

- Stop bars are on Perth Road 178/Huron Road 34

at the intersection and exceed OTM recommendations;

- Rumble strips are installed on both sides of the road approaching the intersection on Perth Road 178/ Huron Road 34 to provide audible and tactile warning of the impending stop sign;

- There is a four-way overhead flashing light installed above the intersection.; and

- Other signage in the vicinity of the intersection is appropriate and generally in good condition.

With multiple safety devices in place, the study stated that an additional seven collisions have occurred at this intersection between 2019-2024, with all occurring during daylight hours and six of the seven during spring/summer months.

“As with the previous study of this intersection, the number of collisions does not meet or exceed the collision warrant as set out in the Ontario Traffic Manual for consideration of all-way stop control,”

New budget process beginning

Continued from front page

This is the portion where the public is encouraged to participate in the budget process, by way of written or verbal delegations during the council meetings, or by simply attending/watching the council meetings online on YouTube.

According to the timeline within Romany’s report, the mayor’s budget will

be presented to council on Nov. 20, followed by a council amendment period which will last until Dec. 1.

A new addition to the process – granted under strong mayor powers – the mayor will have 10 days to veto any council amendments, followed by council’s opportunity to override a mayoral veto, a period lasting until Dec. 15. Continued on page 23

McClelland wrote in his report. “However, similar to the previous study, more than half of the collisions were attributed to disobeying traffic control or failing to yield the right-of-way, with one of the accidents resulting in a fatality and another with serious injuries.”

The study stated that Perth Line 88/Huron Road 30 has an average annual daily traffic of 2,269 vehicles per day, and Perth Road 178/ Huron Road 34 carries approximately 1,100 vehicles per day.

McClelland wrote in his report that queueing of traffic does not exceed one vehicle in length during peak hour traffic, meaning “the existing intersection operates at a good level of service.”

Additionally, drivers’ visibility was investigated with respect to the intersection and the horizontal curve to the southeast.

“This analysis indicated that there is insufficient sight distance to meet the

recommended combination truck ‘left turn from a stop’ intersection sight distance threshold. It is the consultant engineer's opinion that implementing an all-way stop at the intersection could mitigate the sightline limitations,” McClelland wrote.

Another consideration listed in his report was the lowering of the speed limit through the curve approaching the intersection to mitigate the sightline limitations.

The study also found that lighting is necessary to improve the safety of the intersection.

“A review, using guidelines from Transportation Association of Canada, indicated that delineation lighting (dusk to dawn) was warranted at this intersection,” McClelland wrote.

“This should be able to be implemented using the existing hydro poles that currently provide support and power for the overhead flashing beacon.”

“If approved by both Hu-

ron and Perth County, installation of the all-way stop and delineation lighting would proceed as soon as possible,” McClelland wrote.

The costs associated are estimated to range from $10,000 to $15,000 and would be split evenly between Perth and Huron counties.

Perth County Warden and North Perth Deputy Mayor Doug Kellum asked if Stop Ahead signage will be used ahead of the new stop signs.

McClelland said, “all legs of the intersection will have a stop ahead sign and an oversized stop sign,” with flashing lights both on the signs and above the intersection, visible from all four directions.

“For the initial period of a few months, we install ‘new sign’ signage,” McClelland added. “It's kind of a sunburst signage over the stop ahead, just highlighting that this is a new location.”

Gorrie Parks Board slow pitch tournament declared municipally significant

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

HOWICK - Council here pulled a letter out of correspondence at its recent June 24 meeting, declaring the Gorrie Parks Board Adult Co-ed Slow Pitch Tournament scheduled for July 18 to 19 to be of municipal significance.

The slow pitch tournament will be held at

the Gorrie Ball Park, and will raise funds for park improvements.

Tristyn Brick submitted the letter, requesting the event be designated a municipally significant event so they can apply for a Special Occasions Permit. This motion was moved by Deputy Reeve Megan Gibson, seconded by Coun. Marvin Grimes and was carried.

Senior, Junior Legionnaires take on the Mitchell Astros

MITCHELL - The Senior Listowel Legionnaires went up against the Mitchell Astros on Friday, July 4 in Mitchell – losing 5-3.

Legionnaires hurler Steve Palmer got the start on the mound, and pitched five solid innings, Coach Brett Long reported in an email to the Listowel Banner

However, four untimely errors contributed to four unearned runs for Mitchell over the five inning stretch.

Jacob Babstock came on in relief in the sixth inning, and threw two scoreless innings before the time limit ended the game.

Winston Shantz lead the way offensively going three for four including two doubles, one single and two RBIs (Runs Batted In) and a run scored.

Keegan Long, Ryan Hak, Zach Boertien all got two hits each in a losing effort.

“Run production has been hampering the Senior team as there were 12 runners left on base in total over eight innings,” said Long.

The Senior team were in Mitchell again on July 8 to play against the Brewers, and will be at their home diamond this weekend.

On Friday, July 11, the team will host a rematch with the Astros at 7:30 p.m. and will play Woodstock on July 13 at 1 p.m. at

the John Bell South ballpark. Junior team

The Junior Listowel Legionnaires were set to play at their home base again on July 9 against the Kincardine Jr. team. They will also play a double header against the Clinton Junior’s on July 12 at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

For more information, visit listowellegionnaires.ca/schedule/.

15U Avengers boys headed to the Canadian Championships

ELMA - The 15U Elma Avengers boys team punched their tickets to the Canadian Championships in Manitoba in August.

This past weekend the Avengers boys team traveled to Napanee for the Ontario Amateur Softball Association (OASA) Canadian Eliminations tournament. Fourteen teams from all across Ontario were there to compete for a berth to the Softball Canada Championships.

Elma started their weekend off against Innerkip Eagles on Friday afternoon. This was a very tight back and forth game with both teams taking back the lead as they went through the innings. Elma collected 10 hits and a 7- 5 win over the Eagles.

Game two went on Friday evening against the very talented Tara Twins organization. This was a very tightly contested game. Staying tied 2-2 going into the bottom of the sixth inning before the Twins would collect 3 more runs and ultimately take the 5-2 win. This would move Elma into a lose and go home situation as the tournament was a double knock out competition.

Game three went on Saturday afternoon and they would face the Springbrook Royals. Springbrook would bounce out to a very early large lead of 8-2. Avengers couldn’t find their bats until the 5th inning were the collected five hits and six runs to tie the game. They would score three more runs in the sixth to only allow the Springbrook back into it with three of their own. Finally in the seventh and final

inning, Elma would collect three more runs and take the win 14-11 in a two hour and 45 minute marathon game.

Immediately following that game the Avengers played the Wilmot Thunder Minor team. The bats would stay alive, and pitching shut the thunder down to only two runs. The Avengers would mercy the Thunder in six innings with a 9-2 win.

Sunday morning Elma Avengers would take on the Haldimand Bulls. The Avengers bats continued the weekend trend and they jumped out to an early 4-1 lead, knocking the pitcher out of the game. The new pitcher didn’t seem to change the game as Elma would add on five more runs and a 9-4 win to secure their spot in the top four at the tournament and a berth to the Canadian Championships in

Corey Conners honoured with new photo op installation at Listowel Golf Club

LISTOWEL - A new photo-worthy landmark has officially been unveiled at the Listowel Golf Club – celebrating PGA Tour winner Corey Conners.

This life-size photo opportunity installation honours Conners’ inspiring journey from the greens of rural Ontario to golf’s biggest stages around the world. Visitors and fans can now stand alongside the image of this Canadian golf icon—creating a one-of-a-kind moment that’s sure to be shared across social media feeds and travel itineraries alike.

The installation is part of Perth County’s broader strategy to create engaging, shareable tourism experiences in rural communities.

Importantly, the project was made possible through the Government of Ontario’s Rural Economic Development (RED) funding program, which supports initiatives that drive growth, tourism, and prosperity in small communities.

Corey and his wife Mallory Conners continue to give back to the community that shaped them. Through their quiet philanthropy and local involvement, they’ve supported numerous initiatives and programs that make Listowel a better place to live and visit.

“This project is about more than golf – it’s about celebrating community, creating ex-

periences, and highlighting the people who make this place special,” said Meredith Forget, director of economic development and tourism for Perth County. “Corey and Mallory have shown incredible generosity to their hometown, and this installation gives visitors a chance to be part of that story.”

“Corey Conners represents the very best of Listowel – talent, humility, and connection to community,” said Warden Doug Kellum, County of Perth.

“We’re proud to honour him in this way and excited to see this new feature boost local pride and tourism,” the warden added.

Winkler, Manitoba in August. Running out of steam in their fourth game in a row the Avengers run would come to an end against the Napanee Express falling 8-1. The Avengers are now looking ahead to the Canadian Championship. The team will be looking for sponsorship, donations and fundraising in the next couple of weeks to help get these boys there.

Fair Ambassador brings hands-on agriculture to summer camp

As part of the North Perth summer camp program, youth were invited to take part in some handson agricultural learning earlier this week. On Monday, Listowel Fall Fair Ambassador Lexi Johnston arranged opportunities for the youth to feed a calf, participate in a relay where they matched products with their original farm produce and touch and explore farm equipment. Clockwise from top left: Liam Robinson, left, and Hunter Adamson were all smiles and giggles as a calf licked their hands; Emmett Neves shows how big some of the wheels on the farm equipment are; volunteers helped the youth to get on board farm equipment; volunteers brief the youth on the food products to farm produce relay race and Georgia Adamson found a spot to relax while she waited her turn to see the farm equipment up close.

Purus Plastics GmbH, Mike Coates acquire Purus NA Ecoraster Inc.

LISTOWEL - Purus Plastics

GmbH, in partnership with industry executive Mike Coates recently announced the successful acquisition of Purus NA Ecoraster Inc.’s shares from Jim and Nancy Brooks. As part of this transition, Mike Coates will assume the role of chief executive officer and partner, “marking a new chapter of leadership and growth,” states June 23 press release from Purus North America. Purus NA Ecoraster Inc., located in Listowel, is a manufacturer of the Ecoraster - product line, a product for stormwater management “of proven excellence world wide over more than 30 years,” company officials state. Ecoraster is completely made from recycled plastics.

“This strategic change in ownership positions the company to

accelerate innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and expand its sales and manufacturing presence across North America,”

the press release states, noting the founding team at Purus Plastics GmbH “brings deep industry expertise while Mike Coates contributes a proven track record of leadership and operational excellence in manufacturing, sales and marketing in this sector.”

“We’re excited to welcome Mike Coates as CEO and partner” said Waltraud Zeisel CEO of Purus Plastics. “His vision, leadership and commitment to excellence are the perfect match for our future ambitions. At the same time we thank the Brooks family very much for their important contribution during the first years of the company. “ Coates expressed enthusiasm for

the new role.

“I’m honored to lead this next phase of growth with the talented team at Purus NA Ecoraster Inc. Together, we will build on the strong foundation laid by BTE Assembly Group and pursue exciting opportunities for change and customer success,” he stated.

The transition is went into effect in June, “with continuity of service and support for all customers and partners,” the press release indicates.

The press release states Purus Plastics GmbH is a “leading innovator in high-performance plastic solutions, servicing industries across Europe and beyond.

“The company is known for its commitment to quality sustainability and technical excellence.

Purus Plastics is a German recycling pioneer with a strong en-

Magical Midways Inc. charged after 2022 safety maintenance violation

KELSEY BENT

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter kbent@midwesternnewspapers.com

TORONTO - A July 2, 2025 release from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) stated that Magical Midways Inc., a carnival ride company based in Toronto and Woodstock, has pleaded guilty to one count of violating the Technical Standards and Safety Act, following a serious safety incident involving one of its amusement rides in Campbellford, Ontario.

According to the release, the safety incident occurred in August 2022 at the Campbellford Fair, where one of the cars became detached from the ride, known as the Tilt-A-Whirl, while in operation. At the time, the car was carrying three passengers and they all sustained minor injuries.

Magical Midways Inc. is advertised as the midway provider at the 169th Listowel Fair, set for July 1720, 2025.

“The Listowel Agricultural Society has a good working relationship with Magical Midways for the past six years,” said Listowel Agricultural Society President Carolyn van der Heiden in an email to the Listowel Banner. “For 169 years, our organization has made every attempt to provide a safe, fun event for everyone at every Listowel Fair and will continue to do so. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to the 169 th Listowel Fair this coming week and everything that this event offers to the community.”

Additionally, the Campbellford Seymour Agricultural Society said they will continue to work with Magical Midways.

“The Campbellford Seymour Agricultural Society has maintained a positive and collaborative partnership with Magical Midways

Police

for several years,” said Seymour Agricultural Society President Kyle Petherick in an email. “We continue to work closely with both Magical Midways and safety authorities to ensure all rides adhere to the highest safety standards. Our priority remains providing a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in our community, and we look forward to continuing this valued relationship for many years to come.”

The over 30-year-old family business, now in its third generation, Magical Midways Inc. is overseen by Brad McCafferty in a combination of their centralized Toronto, Ontario location, as well as their Farm and shop near Woodstock Ontario, where they carry out ongoing maintenance and refurbishing of their quality equipment.

According to their website, the outdoor amusement business operates various types of equipment, from rides to games, and candy floss operations. It has been involved in many fairs and exhibitions across the

investigate motorcycle theft in Listowel

LISTOWEL - Perth County OPP are investigating the theft of a motorcycle in Listowel that occured on June 28. Perth County OPP launched an investigation after a receiving information that a motorcycle was stolen from a residential property on Elma Street East between 12:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., a police report confirms. The motorcycle is described as:

- Black 2010 Kawasaki Ninja 250cc; - Red pin striped wheels; - Grey tinted signal lights; - Grim reaper decal on the windshield; - Cracked left fairing; and - Loud aftermarket exhaust This investigation remains ongoing. Perth County OPP is requesting anyone with information related to

Contributed photo Perth County OPP are investigating the

of a

in

overnight on June 28.

this investigation or video footage of the area to call 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-888222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www. cstip.ca. Tip providers may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.

country in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, as well as an maintaining an ongoing contract at the Woodbine Centre.

“Magical Midways continues to conduct on going inspections, maintenance and repairs on a daily basis to the equipment,” Sheri McCafferty of Magical Midways Inc. explained in an email. “Magical Midways has upgraded their system to comply with TSSA requirements regarding log and maintenance record keeping.”

An investigation by the TSSA revealed that Magical Midways Inc. failed to maintain proper inspection records in accordance with Ontario Regulation 221/01. The employee responsible for maintenance used a simplified checklist that did not reflect the manufacturer’s required procedures. The logbook lacked any documentation of the necessary inspection and testing of fasteners on the car’s pivot pin assembly – a failure that led to the unit’s unexpected detachment.

“Maintenance is just as important as installation when it comes to amusement ride safety,” said AJ Kadirgamar, director of TSSA’s amusement devices safety program. “Installation ensures a ride is set up for safe use, but ongoing maintenance ensures it remains safe over time. Overlooking key procedures or failing to document them can put users at serious risk.”

Kadirgamar continued, “Every detail matters in maintenance, and the purpose of the logbook is to record all safety actions carried out. As the regulator, we urge amusement device operators to devote the necessary attention and effort to this safety process designed to help protect both property and passengers.”

TSSA’s data shows that failures in maintenance and record-keeping remain a key compliance issue in the amusement devices sector.

According to TSSA’s latest Public Safety Report, the highest number of or-

renewed a request for information

Hanna, who disappeared after a Lucknow homecoming

on July 3, 1988.

ders issued during periodic inspections of amusement devices in fiscal year 2024 – accounting for 7.69% of all orders – were related to operators’ failure to ensure that certified mechanics performed periodic maintenance and documented it in the associated log books.

According to the TSSA release, the Ontario Court has imposed a fine of $30,000, along with a 25 per cent victim surcharge to Magincal Midway Inc.

The TSSA is one of Ontario’s public safety regulators, mandated by the Government of Ontario to enforce provincial safety regulations and enhance public safety. Throughout Ontario, TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education and consumer information, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support and enforcement and prosecution activities. The organization’s vision is to be a valued advocate and recognized authority in public safety.

OPP request assistance in decades-old investigation

RACHEL HAMMERMUELLER rhammer@midwesternnewspapers.com

KINCARDINE - Timed around the 37th anniversary of a heavily-reported Huron County missing person investigation, OPP have renewed a request for help locating Lois Hanna, who disappeared from Kincardine between July 3 and 4, 1988.

According to an OPP press release, a missing persons report was filed with the then-operational Kincardine Police after Hanna did not report for work on Monday, July 4, 1988. She was last seen on Sunday, July 3, 1988, at the Lucknow Homecoming Dance in Lucknow. On July 9, 1988, OPP were brought in to assist the investigation.

At the time of her disappearance, Hanna was described as:

- 25 years old;

- 5’4” (163 cm);

- 120 lbs (54 kg);

- Brown eyes; and

- Short brown, curly hair.

The South Bruce OPP Crime Unit is continuing the investigation, under the direction of the OPP Criminal Investigation Branch.

“Despite an exhaustive

search and continued investigation,” the release states, “Lois has not been located.”

Police are treating her disappearance as a homicide. Provincial Constable Matthew Thorpe, with South Bruce OPP, clarified in an email to Midwestern Newspapers that the reason for the press release encouraging anyone with information is because of the anniversary of Hanna’s disappearance.

Thorpe adds that there is “no new information” pertaining to the investigation specifically, adding however that the case continues to be actively investigated. “We continue to receive tips about this case, and we never know when the tip received could lead to a resolution to her disappearance.”

The Government of the Province of Ontario is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to Hanna’s location.

Anyone with information is urged to contact their local police or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

Atwood Canada Day celebration includes parades, activities

Atwood knows how to celebrate Canada Day (July 1) - with parades, activities and fireworks.

Clockwise from the top left: the Atwood Lion Cubs helped members of the Atwood Lions Club fill up a float near the front of the Canada Day parade; members of the Cassel family from Powell Printing in Listowel were decked out in patriotic gear for the Canada Day celebrations; local politicians from every level were on hand to help celebrate Canada Day including North Perth Mayor Todd Kasenberg (far left) Perth Wellington MPP Matthew Rae (centre) perched in a pickup truck and Perth-Wellington MP John Nater (right) accompanied by his daughter Ainslie, wearing Maple Leaf flag shirts; youngsters enjoying a variety of games and activities on the community centre grounds following the parade; The Atwood Community Centre grounds were packed with revellers following the village’s massive parade; Elma Minor soccer players participating in the parade and members of the North Perth Seniors waving to the crowd.

Fireworks light up the night sky for Atwood celebration

Atwood held its annual Canada Day

works celebration at dusk on July 1. The event saw hundreds of people set up a perfect viewing spot in the ball field after a long, sunny day of watching the town’s Canada Day parade, enjoying live music, kids activities and food and beer tent. Below, crowds wait for the fireworks to start. At left, folks from all around the county watched the impressive display (Contributed photo).

Quiet in the Land an affecting story of how traditions protect and destroy us; award-winning play makes return to Blyth Festival

RACHEL HAMMERMUELLER

rhammer@midwesternnewspapers.com

BLYTH - Returning home to the Harvest Stage after 44 years is

Anne Chislett’s historical drama

Quiet in the Land. A story about the strain between past and present, love and loss, father and son is brought to existence in a palpable way on a summer evening –the plotline following the arc of a golden hour youthfulness which lit the stage both physically and thematically, to the starlit darkness of nightfall by curtain-closing, underlining finality and loss. The idea of misplaced responsibility is at the forefront of this story – the considerations of one’s own burdens to bear, battles to fight and sacrifices to make –asking questions like does the land one stands on constitute obligation to protect it when society catapults into violence?

During 1914 - 1918, Canada and the people at the helm seemed to believe so. Or, does one have to forsake their true love and marry someone to appease their community? Does a bishop need to tear apart his own family under the guise of keeping his church

family together?

The play opens with Amish families singing happy hymns, yet quickly there is mention of impending conscription. The play’s main tensions – father versus son, freedom versus duty – are introduced in quick succession; Yock Bauman (played by Landon Doak) missing church service and the arrival of a letter with a military registration demand. A son’s departure from his father’s expectations and Amish pacifism are both threatened by Canada’s requirements and the Amish struggle to stay separate from it. The rosy glow of possibilities and innocence is illustrated by the budding courtship of main characters Katie Brubacher (played by Shelayna Christante) and Yock before he defies his community and takes up the call for king and country.

Lighthearted, comedic moments, which got some surprisingly big laughs from the audience, were jokes surrounding bible verses (maybe a result of the religious population of Huron County?) and the redeeming, tug-at-the-heartstrings moments when friendship lit up

the stage, specifically between the seemingly hard-hearted father Christy Bauman (played by Randy Hughson) and the kindhearted Zepp Brubacher (played by James Dallas Smith).

Plot is backdropped by the seismic shift the world felt from the 19th to 20th century, in terms of technology – the government handing out tractors and Yock fawning over Toronto’s trollies and tall buildings – to the rapid loss of tradition, symbolized by the constant fear of churches splitting, “sunday-schooler” young people meeting to discuss religion and the shock of rubber tires and “speaking to the devil” on telephones.

Besides the tension-breaking scenes, an enduring throughline here is grief. Alluded to sometimes directly by the death of mothers or the loss of a son’s legs at war, it’s categorized in quieter ways, like Kate’s depression settling into a life married to the wrong man or Christy drowning in wine instead of facing down his pride.

The most gripping moments are the final ones – Yock returning home, haunted by guilt of his ac-

tions that go against his religion and pleading for forgiveness he doesn’t receive, while learning Katie and his mother-figure are forever out of his reach.

Christy’s closing monologue is the standout, partly due to content – his admittal of the “cost of wanting,” the traditions he abandoned his son to keep being lost anyway – but mostly due to Hughson’s raw, affecting emotion, which unexpectedly and involuntarily made my eyes fog up as well as Hughson’s, which were not quite cleared during the cast’s final bow – a testament to his commitment to character.

Subtle symbolism in the play is appreciated – specifically the blood-stained shirt visible only as Yock turns his back to the audience. An obvious beating from his father takes place for a moment longer than you would expect. Although the Amish community on stage is displayed often as intertwined and connected emotionally, it can’t be ignored that significant issues of physical abuse take place in closed communities – especially during this time period.

Further, there is reference to the

abuse faced by the Amish community by those outside it during the war, with physical assault and prejudice taking place against their pacifism and language. It’s an essential perspective many of us outside this community wouldn’t consider.

Characters discuss the finality and severity of heaven and hell – a teaching of many Christian religions. This “life is hard” mentality is spoken by Christy to Katie, in the words that misery is a “means to an end” of eternal life in heaven.

This begs the question, why can’t life on earth also be heaven? In times of war and strife however, perhaps this is a means of coping with one’s reality. This play makes you appreciate how societal and religious customs define, enlighten but also have real potential to ruin lives.

The words left with me as the stage lights turned down were spoken by Menno Miller (played by Richard Comeau) to Christy as he loses his son, bishophood and church – warning of the havoc made when someone is “Making a golden calf out of tradition.”

Council to allow temporary parking restrictions for Hayloft Music Festival

NICOLE BESWITHERICK

nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

LISTOWEL - Temporary parking limitations are often used to manage traffic during special events. According to a recent report to council, temporary parking limitations for sporting and community events in North Perth have had positive impacts on events.

The Hayloft Music Festival is being held here in a few weeks, on Aug. 2. Expected to bring up to 8,000 attendees, the festival promoter is providing onsite and off-site parking options around

North Perth

to

NICOLE BESWITHERICK

nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

the Steve Kerr Memorial Complex.

“To improve traffic flow, control errant parking and keep roads accessible for emergency services, temporary parking restrictions on the following roads should be implemented,” stated a report to council at its June 23 meeting by Manager of Operations Matt Ropp.

The roads include:

- Road 165 between Perth Line 86 and 8291 Road 165 (both sides);

- Louise Avenue North between Binning Street West and Reid Crescent (East side);

- Albert Avenue North between Main

Street and 100m north of Rogers Road (both sides);

- Reid Crescent between Louise Avenue North and Rogers Road (North side);

- Edgar Street West between Briarwood Avenue North and Edward Avenue North (North side);

- Binning Street West between Haverkamp Avenue North and Louise Avenue N (North side);

- Binning Street West between Louise Avenue North and Albert Avenue North (South side);

- John Street West between 100m west

of Alexander Avenue North; and - Albert Avenue North (North side). It was recommended that North Perth Council direct staff to install temporary parking restrictions on roads identified in the report from Aug. 1 to 5, 2025 to be enforced with the Traffic and Parking bylaw 47-PW-2000; and that public works, North Perth Fire Department, OPP, and Perth County EMS be notified of these temporary restrictions. The recommended motion in the report was then moved by Coun. Matt Richardson, seconded by Coun. Marc Noordam and carried.

replace street name signs that honour veterans, include poppy

LISTOWEL - At a previous North Perth regular council meeting, Coun. Allen Rothwell requested to review how veterans in the area are honoured on street name signs, for example with a poppy so others know the sign is named after a veteran. This was brought up again at its recent June 23 meeting.

A report to council from staff explained that staff maintain a database of local fallen veterans, which is recorded as the “Historic Street Name Inventory” under

the Municipal Addressing bylaw 25-2023. Under this bylaw, at least 50 per cent of new street names in developments must be selected from this inventory. Currently in North Perth, there are 24 streets that are named after veterans, represented by 65 street signs.

Staff brought three options to council to proceed with for the poppy initiative.

Option one was to do “nothing. The current municipal addressing by-law directs staff and developers on what names are available for council’s approval,” it listed in the report.

Option two was to amend the municipal

addressing bylaw to include the poppy graphic on any new street sign that honours a veteran, and replace all current street name signs that are named after a veteran with a new sign that includes a poppy graphic. A proposed amendment to the municipal addressing bylaw would then be brought to council at a later date. However, it was recommended that council direct staff to implement option three, which will incur no upfront cost as existing veteran street name signs would be replaced by signs that include a poppy during the next replacement cycle for signs. It was also mentioned that anticipated

street name signs will be replaced within the next five to 10 years, depending on their condition.

In terms of financial implications, choosing option two would have require replacing 65 existing veteran street signs with new signs that include a poppy, which would cost $10,000. However, there was reported to be no current budget for this option, which is why staff recommended going with option three.

Ultimately, North Perth Council approved the recommended motion, and this was moved by Coun. Allen Rothwell, seconded by Coun. Marc Noordam .

The Comancheros Car Club of Listowel hosted its annual Show ‘N’ Shine car show on July 6 at Listowel Memorial Park. Over 100 cars and trucks were shown off to the public Sunday morning and afternoon. There were classics dated as old as 1932, and others that were newer but decked out in fun stickers and decals. The car show was open to all makes and models, motorcycles, competition and special interest vehicles. All proceeds from the event will be going towards North Perth Community Hospice.

Elite Wingham-based soccer team includes Listowel-area players

Continued from page 5

He said the team has played against opponents from Guelph and Waterloo on University-level fields with lights and turf. One such competition saw the team down the Waterloo team on the Wilfrid Laurier University soccer pitch.

It is a new experience for the competing teams as well, Valdez says, as Galbraith Field is pretty different from playing at the University of Guelph or Wilfried Laurier University.

“We don’t have lights,” he said with a laugh, “and the field is in such great condition because it floods before the season starts every year, leaving it softer than a lot of other natural fields.”

This level of competition is new to the northern parts of Huron County, and the southern and western parts, respectively, of Bruce and Perth County. Players would often travel to St. Columban to play on a higher-level team, Valdez says, however they are now coming to Wingham, with players coming from Walkerton, Listowel, Wingham, Goderich, Auburn and Newry.

Much of the team that has spurred the need for this higher-level competition will be aging out next year, Valdez said, so he is looking at fielding a U21 team in the league, as well as maintaining the U18 team. He said there hasn’t been a U21 team in the area at this level before.

The season

The Wingham BU18 team opened the season with a tight loss to Kitchener, being downed 1-0 on the road on May 5, however, the squad then posted three straight wins, including two shut-outs.

On May 21, the team doubled the Rockwood FC team 4-2 in Wingham, then shut-out Waterloo on the road on May 26, 4-0, before downing the Stratford Strikers 1-0 in Wingham on June 11.

On June 16, the Wingham squad were downed 4-2 by Fergus, but then bounced back with wins against the Guelph Jr. Gryphons Black team (2-1 on June 18) and Kitchener (1-0 on June 25).

Brody Moir leads the team with three

goals, followed by a four-way tie for second between Andrew Groothuis, Dean Love, Ryan Culbert and Tito Valdez, each with two goals, and a threeway tie for third with Bryce Brown, Nathan Westra and Sam Cronin, each with one goal.

Ewan Johston and Micah Bachert have each been attributed with two shut-out victories as keeper.

The team has seven games left in the regular season, three of which are scheduled at home: July 28 (7 p.m. against Waterloo), July 30 (7 p.m. versus Fergus) and Aug. 13 (6:30 p.m. versus Guelph).

For more information or to follow the team’s season, visit swrsaleague.ca.

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Council apprehensively approves new budget process under strong mayor powers framework

Continued from page 8

Following the timeline presented, the mayor’s budget could be adopted on Dec. 16.

“The goal is to have the 2026 budget adopted by early to mid-December 2025, allowing for timely implementation and positioning staff to begin the new year with an approved budget and business plan,” Romany wrote. “To support this, the final public consultation period typically held after the budget package was endorsed will be discontinued. It was determined that feedback received during this stage has historically been minimal and has not influenced the outcomes of the budget.” Romany continued, “Public engagement will continue to be supported through the pre-budget consultation survey and opportunities for written or in-person feedback (e.g., delegations) during budget deliberations.”

Lastly, it is important to note that future budget processes may not follow the same structure as that proposed for 2026. Ultimately, the budget process is at the discretion of the elected mayor and is subject to change in future years.

After Romany’s presentation, Coun. Lee Anne Andriessen was first to share her concerns.

“The notion of the new process of staff and the mayor taking the main control of the budget really weighs heavily on my conscience,” she said. “As a councillor, I recognize that the new budget process, to some degree, will be a parallel process to what has happened in the past. However, I believe it’s really important that we continue to bring the voices of our residents to the chambers, and I feel that this whole change in the budget process reduces the voices of councillors, and thereby reduces the voices of our residents.”

She went on to say “Council is reduced to a cheering section while our residents sit in the nose bleeds when it comes to putting this budget together.”

“Right now, it may not seem to be a problem, but if we were to have a mayor that liked to exploit one’s positional powers, then the potential for the abuse could be

destructive to our municipality,” Andriessen cautioned. “And we as a council would have a difficult time trying to be a voice for our community.”

In closing, she said she isn’t placing blame on staff or the mayor, as they are following the strong mayor powers legislation, which she said was “downloaded by the province.”

“I feel that this process really erodes our democratic process … Unfortunately, there is no recourse. There’s nothing we can do. There’s no way we can stand up any further to this,” she said.

Coun. Allan Rothwell voiced that he believes the mayor and staff are doing the best that they can.

“I believe that Mayor Kasenberg and staff are trying to work within the new regime of strong mayor powers in terms of including council in the decision-making process, which they’re not required to do,” he said.

“I believe it’s an appropriate way to at least involve members of council in this discussion. And I think it’s important to note that the mayor’s prerogative in discussions with staff didn’t have to do that, but I think that given the comments from our mayor, that he has been willing to delegate some of those strong mayor powers back to this council. And in this case, include council in the decision-making process. This all gives me comfort … That may be fine for now, but in the case of subsequent mayors, it’s not necessarily a given.”

Coun. Dave Johnston echoed Rothwell’s comments.

“Mr. Mayor and Ashton, I commend you for this report, because I think it involves us as much as we can, and I appreciate that,” he said.

Mayor Kasenberg shared the reasoning behind his decision to continue to include council.

“I want to send the message clearly and publicly, I respect and appreciate each of you,” he said to council. “We have had a remarkably collegial experience together over my six and a half, almost seven years as mayor, and so at every turn where there was the opportunity to allow council in

and to move these powers away from me and back to council. I did that because I trust you, because I believe in you, and I don’t see particularly the need for a lot of these.”

Coun. Sarah Blazek urged the public to participate in this new process.

“I think that we really need to make sure that the public is educated,” she said. “You know, we have the municipal budget survey out now, which is great, however, we don’t always get a lot of feedback from the public, but now, more than ever, that feed-

back is really important, and it’s crucial that we educate the public on what these strong mayor powers mean and what they mean specifically for the budget.”

The first step of the budget process is a public survey available online at yoursaynorthperth.ca/2026budget, additional hard copies of the survey are available at North Perth Library branches. According to the website, the survey should take approximately five minutes to complete, and the survey period will close on July 31, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.

Province appoints Burlington CAO as first-ever Chief Conservation Executive

TORONTO - A release from the province claims it is taking action to enhance the effectiveness of the province’s 36 conservation authorities, which will create consistency, reduce costs and drive faster outcomes for the communities they serve.

To lead these efforts, Hassaan Basit will serve in a newly created role as the Chief Conservation Executive, effective Aug. 4, 2025.

“Our government recognizes the vital role that Ontario’s conservation authorities play in watershed management and protecting communities from natural hazards,” Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Hon. Todd McCarthy said in the release. “I am looking forward to leading our government’s efforts to bring common sense conservation principles to the role of conservation authorities and this newly created role

under Hassaan’s leadership will support these efforts across the province.”

Basit is currently the Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Burlington. Prior to this, he was President and CEO of Conservation Halton, where he led initiatives in flood risk management, environmental restoration, sustainable development, and outdoor recreation. During this time, Basit also chaired a provincial working group that advised government on the implementation of key changes to improve the ability of conservation authorities to protect Ontario’s water, land and natural resources. He holds an Executive MBA in Digital Transformation and a Governance Certification from McMaster University, a Master of Science in Science Communication from Queen’s University Belfast, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology and

Political Science from the University of Toronto.

“I’m honoured to join the Province of Ontario at this pivotal moment for conservation,” Hassaan Basit, the newly appointed Chief Conservation Executive, said in the release. “Over my 20 years in the conservation sector, I’ve learned that effective flood protection is not just about safeguarding the environment – it’s about enabling prosperous, sustainable communities. Conservation authorities were created to strike that balance, and they have worked for decades to protect people and property while supporting economic prosperity. As we move forward, modernization is essential to ensure they remain focused, effective, and ready to meet Ontario’s growing needs – whether it’s mitigating flood risks, enabling housing supply or supporting long-term resilience.”

Public Health representatives discuss and vote on alPHa resolutions at annual general meeting

NICOLE BESWITHERICK nbeswitherick@midwesternnewspapers.com

STRATFORD - The Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) Board of Health met for the last time on June 13 until the fall session.

At its recent meeting, the board was provided four alPHa resolutions to support. These resolutions were to be considered for the resolutions sessions taking place at the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 18 to 20, and important information on voting procedures.

Those attending the AGM from HPPH included Director of Corporate Services and Secretary to the Board of Health Julie Pauli, Medical Officer of Health and CEO Dr. Miriam Klassen, Board of Health Vice Chair Todd Kasenberg, and provincial representative for the Board of Health Sheryl Feagan.

Two of the resolutions were received prior to this year’s deadline, and after being reviewed by the alPHa Executive Committee on May 13, both were recommended for consideration.

Late resolutions were then added on May 22 and June 9.

Late resolutions are permitted under alPHa’s governing policies and procedures, however, they are not reviewed by the alPHa Executive Committee, and are

therefore subject to additional requirements for consideration by the membership.

The four total resolutions for discussion include:

- A25-01 - Integrating the Ontario Early Adversity and Resilience Framework into Public Health Practice to Improve Population Health Outcomes;

- A25-02 - Indigenous Representation on Boards of Health;

- (Late addition) A25-03 - Preventing heavy metal exposure from contaminated spices, cosmetics, ceremonial powders and products sold for natural health purposes; and

- (Late addition) A25-04Strengthening Public Health and Judicial Responses to the Opioid Toxicity Crisis in Ontario, with a Focus on Protecting Indigenous Communities.

The full descriptions of all four resolutions can be found in the June 13 HPPH agenda at www. hpph.ca/about-us/board-ofhealth/board-meetings/.

The board agreed to support resolutions one and three, but were hesitant on the remaining items.

CEO and Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen explained she had no issue supporting resolutions two and four, but several members on the board suggested it was difficult to vote ‘yes’ on them, when they are not

necessarily relevant to HPPH specifically.

Board Chair Bernie MacLellan then made the motion to support resolutions one and three. However, Marg Luna (St. Marys Coun.) then asked what would happen with the other two.

“I agree that the [resolutions do] not apply to us at this board. But I don’t feel comfortable saying ‘nay’ to them,” said Luna.

Dr. Klassen then suggested those attending the AGM could also decide to not vote on those resolutions at all, for or against.

“Well, a non vote is a nay vote,” Luna expressed. “It kind of looks like we are against Indigenous people if we say ‘nay’, right? And I just don’t feel comfortable saying ‘nay’ to two and four – because on principle, they are good resolutions.”

MacLellan responded, “I’m looking at it from the standpoint that every Board of Health has a number of votes, and in my opinion, we need to vote for the things that we feel will impact our residents the most.”

Luna added that, still, by saying “nay” to the other two resolutions, “I think it’s a negative connotation that this board is presenting.”

Bill Vanstone (Deputy Mayor for Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh, Huron County Coun.) asked if

the board could leave it “that we have four representatives [at HPPH], and very intelligent representatives, and they’re going to listen to this presentation, and as a board member, I’d like to give them the right to vote ‘yay’ or ‘nay’ at that point in time.”

This idea was agreed upon by the chair.

George Finch (Mayor of South Huron, Huron County Coun.) said he would like to support resolution four.

“If they can protect the Indigenous communities, we’re actually protecting our own communities,” he said.

Provincial representative for the board, Jared Petteplace, added his standpoint was to support a ‘no’ vote for resolutions two and four as “it doesn’t really apply to our community. It’s not like we’re against it. It just does not apply to us.”

Coun. Cody Sebben for the City of Stratford also provided his opinion, stating he would like support for the two resolutions of discussion as to not “hold back” other communities that it may apply to. That, and he was in support of letting the four representatives decide for themselves at the AGM after gaining more information.

“I still like the idea of actually letting them decide based on the

conversation that happens there. I can never make up my mind how I’m going to vote until I’m at the meeting, because someone may say something that I hadn’t thought of, and that can quite often change your position on something,” said MacLellan.

Before making a final decision for a motion, Robert Wilhelm (Coun. for Perth South and Coun. for Perth County) added his opinion on the subject.

“All residents have representatives sitting on this board, whether it’s from Huron County, Perth County, and then you have provincial reps that also represent all residents,” he said. “And when you start saying, ‘Well, we’re going to get specialty groups,’ then how big does your board get? And I think you have to limit it. You have representatives here –period.”

Resolutions endorsed

A motion was then made that the Board of Health endorse the resolutions, and authorize attendees to vote in favour of the four resolutions with the ability to discuss and change their voting based on discussion and amendments presented at the meeting.

This was moved by Marg Luna, seconded by provincial representative Adam Waxman and was carried.

Safety on the roads is always a priority, but it is even more important once summer arrives and the school year ends. The constant comings and goings of children in the street and the increased presence of pedestrians and cyclists are all the reasons you need to be more cautious than ever.

Once summer day camp begins, it will be common to see large groups of children walking through town. Car drivers should reduce their speed as soon as they see such a group. Drivers should also take care in residential areas, near schools, playgrounds, public swimming pools, and parks.

Text messages should never be sent while driving and phone calls should be made from the side of the road. It only takes a moment of distraction when looking at your cell phone for a serious accident to occur. Remember the importance of coming to a complete halt at stop signs, of using your turn signals, and of checking your blind spots before making turns.

Parents and children also have a key role to play in the prevention of unfortunate incidents. It is important to remind children of safety rules for walking in the town or cycling. For example,

Growing up on a farm is a great experience. It’s an exciting place to learn about food, animals, and how things grow.

But while living on a farm is fun, there are areas that aren’t safe for kids. That’s why it’s crucial for farm families to create designated safe play areas for children on the farm. After all, playing is essential for children to develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively.

When selecting a site for creating a safe play area, look for a spot that is away from the majority of farm activity and traffic, not near bodies of water, at least partially shaded, free from pests (like mice) and hazardous plants (like poison ivy),

children should always cross a road at an intersection or at a pedestrian crossing. They should also respect pedestrian crossing lights and traffic lights at intersections, just as drivers have to.

Cyclists should remember how important it is to always ride in the same direction as the traffic, to stay visible by wearing light-coloured clothing and reflectors, and to never wear earphones while biking.

away from lots of loud noise, and not obstructed from the view of a supervising adult. It’s also important to teach children to stay within the designated play area and make them aware of the dangers of going outside of the area.

Always keep in mind that safe play areas are NOT a substitute for adult supervision. Not all children play the same, even if they are the same age, which is why adequate supervision is an important part of safe play.

This year marks the second annual Kids FarmSafe Week, which focuses on Nurturing the Future of Agriculture. For more information and safety tips, visit www.kidsfarmsafe.ca