april2014

Why not spend the day taking in art, history, and culture

in

the heart of Woodstock?

Parks and Recreation are looking for extra helping hands to plant trees on Arbor Day Pg.27 Woodstock has a new Aquatics Supervisor Pg.7

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 21 and enter today!

Photo by Andrew Norris

A: 2001 Canada Summer Games

5 14 22 27

What’s On

Culture in Woodstock is getting a boost

The Art Gallery, Museum and Library are all working together to make downtown Woodstock more appealing as a cultural hub.

Summer Road Construction is just around the corner

While it can be a headache while it is going on, there are ways to make it easier on both yourself and the construction crew.

Photo Supplied

All the history you need and want to know is right here in Woodstock.

The Oxford Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society, the County of Oxford Archives and the Oxford Historical Society are full of interesting information that is available all in one place.

Stock Photo Photo

by Andrew Norris

Photo by Karyn Matwey

The City is going to get a little greener on Arbor Day

The rebuilding of local trails with new trees is a long process and on Arbor Day this year, they hope to kick off the planting season with a bang.

City Schedules and Services

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From Members of City Council Woodstock has a new Aquatics Supervisor Woodstock Environmental Advisory Committee Community Champion Gary Waugh Woodstock Transit and Para-Transit United Way Celebrates 50 years in Oxford Woodstock Fire Department Woodstock Public Library Woodstock District Community Complex Woodstock Museum NHS Woodstock Art Gallery

Next Edition

The May 2014 edition of WOW will be delivered with the Oxford Shopping News on April 28/2014 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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From members of City Council…

Contributed photo

A

lthough we praise We don’t have the luxury of hindsight or second modesty and humility guessing. There are budget obligations that come back as worthy human each and every year and there is little leeway for extra qualities, there is no spending. It is often a matter of shave and trim and add in lack of hubris in many small increments. of our more noteworthy Life would be easy if all of us wanted the same thing, if assertions, especially those we always agreed and nobody broke any rules or violated pertaining to how special any laws. As the city grows it demands more from all of we are as a species. We us and it is more difficult to retain a sense of community, so value our place in the but with so many people living in close proximity we scheme of things that up can’t ignore the needs of others and when problems arise until a few centuries ago and persist, from wherever they originate or for whatever we still held forth that reason, council is often presented with yet another everything rotated around bylaw to deal with or regulate inconsiderate activities or planet Earth. We believed that we were the center of the behaviour. universe and the few brave scientists who challenged that Society is becoming more and more complex and our notion suffered horribly for their opinions and discoveries. role as a council is to govern with wisdom, to move us When confronted with an issue we sometimes forget forward and to guide us along. Hopefully our decisions that its relevance resonates the loudest at the source and will be based on facts and figures, on substance and merit. diminishes in intensity as it fades to the fringes. It is often I will finish with a quote from a retired staff member in difficult for people caught up at the height of an issue that a private conversation we had about issues and how to best it can leave others or those not affected, rather cold and deal with them and he said, “We can’t please everybody all indifferent. As a council we have to negotiate through this of the time, but we try to get it right most of the time.” in a respectful manner, but we do have the not so enviable It is a challenge to lead, but if we are headed in the right task of rendering a final decision. We live in a city that is direction and are guided by the right motivation, it is all growing and its makeup is wide and diverse. Expectations the reward I need. and demands change, new challenges constantly present themselves and the bottom line is always—can we afford You can email Councillor Bes with comments or concerns this and how are we going to pay for it? at bbes@cityofwoodstock.ca

CITY OF WOODSTOCK

PHONE DIRECTORY

CONTACTS Volume 16

Number 4

What’s On Woodstock Magazine is published monthly by the Office of the Communications & Special Events Manager of the City of Woodstock. Circulation is 19,000 copies delivered to the residents and businesses of Woodstock.

Magazine produced by: Oxford Media Group Tel: 519-539-9762, Fax: 519-539-7063 E-mail: wow@oxfordmediagroup.com Mail/Courier: 70 Wellington Street South, Woodstock, Ontario N4S 3H6.

Ad deadline for May 2014 edition: Apr. 4 /2014 Call 519-539-1291 x 4102 to reserve today.

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WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

Art Gallery............................................519-539-6761 City Hall...............................................519-539-1291 Civic Centre Arena....................519-421-3484 x 4301 Goff Hall Rental........................519-421-3484 x 4301 Library..................................................519-539-4801 Market Centre Rental...........................519-537-8411 Museum...............................................519-537-8411 Para-Transit Services............................519-539-1291 Parks & Recreation....................519-539-1291 x 4101 Public Works............. 519-539-1291 x 3140 or x 3104 Small Business Centre..........................519-421-2129 Southside Aquatics.................. 519-421-POOL (7665) Southwood Arena.....................519-421-3484 x 4301 Transit Services.........................519-539-1291 x 3102

Have your events listed in the FREE Event List on the back inside cover (sponsored by Hunt Homes) or for advertising in the What’s On Woodstock Magazine, call Editor Brad Janssen, at 519-539-1291 x 4102 or fax to 519-539-3275.

Culture in Woodstock is getting a boost

By working together, local centres hope to build on what we already have

By Karyn Matwey

W

oodstock is growing and so is its cultural community. Looking for new ways to create more interesting programs and events downtown, the Art Gallery, Museum, Library and others are working together on a new philosophy.

“It started with the Sand Hills Community Development Fund, getting away from tobacco and focussing on art tours and emphasizing the creative culture of the area to promote economic development,” says Karen Houston, Manager of Culture and the Curator for the Woodstock Museum.

The Barn Quilt Tour has become a great tourism booster for the county and seeing the proof, downtown Woodstock cultural centres decided to work together as well to create a cluster of attractions.

“One of the strengths of downtown Woodstock is the proximity of things to each other, so you can park once and spend the whole day,” says Sheila Perry, Director and Curator for the Woodstock Art Gallery. “I think that people don’t realize that parking is free, the museum is free, the art gallery is free and so is the library, so you can come downtown, have lunch and spend a fun day with the family. It’s very economical and there’s even outdoor green space as well.”

It’s also a new way to explore Woodstock.

“The library has always been a significant draw for the downtown, people are visiting the library in ever greater numbers but in order to broaden our base, we have been working with the art gallery and museum and with the museum school program as well,” says Gary Baumbach, Chief Librarian and CEO. By creating collaborative programming, they are able to appeal to a wider audience.

“When they started mapping the cultural activity in this region, people were blown away by how much there is, so it makes sense that we try to get involved with

that,” says Perry. “The proximity of the museum and art gallery and library leads to a natural synergy; it’s about supporting each other’s programming and working together.”

Just recently, they worked together with the Woodstock Theatre for a fun Family Day full of activities and they were happy to have a strong turnout.

“It was nice for me at the museum, people were pick ing and choosing the things they wanted to do and it was free and everything was open,” says Houston. “The trick is finding out what your audience wants and I’m excited, it’s nice to have the ability to do these things. I know when I go travelling I see everything, not just one thing, and I think that other people want to see more as well and we are giving them that.”

By creating open events where everything is within walking distance, they are giving people options.

“From a tourist point of view, they usually will take in three or four things at a time, and they might choose Woodstock over somewhere else if they see what we have to offer,” says Perry. “Locally we would like people to come downtown and spend the day, there’s a lot to do down here.”

A nother event last October saw the art gallery and library coming together to showcase the great literary works.

“This past fall we worked with Sheila for the International Festival of Authors where we collaborated and the gallery put together a display of art work that tied in together with the authors we were showcasing,” says Baumbach. “We hope we can do it again this coming October.”

While they are still in the development phase, they are quick to point out that this is not a project, but a new way of thinking and they are using it as a springboard when developing programming and events.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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F il e P h o t o

Woodstock Museum

“It’s a philosophy, so there is no timeline, it’s not a series of events, it’s an attitude towards serving the community,” says Perry. “It’s with the idea that working together is better. A lot of the programming we would do will be the type of programming that entire families can do together and we want to foster an intergenerational experience because it can be tough appealing to all age groups all at once.”

Because they each offer different kinds of interests, by working together they can create new ways of helping people learn and explore their creative side.

“Think about the grey areas between the three, because that leads to new innovative programming that hasn’t happened before,” says Perry. “Most people if interested in culture, are interested in a broad spectrum of activities, so the more we can work together, the more unique the programming we have to offer, and the best part of all, it’s home grown.”

While they are still developing programming ideas together, they will be continuing their summer camps together and hope that events like Family Day will help build interest levels.

“It’s better to brand the idea of three in one as a cultural cluster as it gets more mileage than just individuals ones,” says Perry. “Even if a family comes and one person is a history buff, while another is more into art, we are able to say we have something for everyone.”

They are always open to collaborating with more cultural centres in the area as well.

“It is amorphous, it will evolve and the more the merrier really, we are partners with the BIA, doing cross pollination there as well,” says Perry.

For more information on programming and upcoming events, check out the City of Woodstock website at www.cityofwoodstock.ca.

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WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

Woodstock has a new Aquatics Supervisor Patrick King brings a lot of experience with him

By Karyn Matwey

Photo Supplied

W

oodstock’s Aquatics programs are in good hands with new supervisor Patrick King at the helm. Taking a love of recreation and putting it into action, he is excited to get started.

“I’ve been working in aquatics for over 16 years now,” says King. “I graduated from the University of Waterloo with a degree in Science and have worked for both the Guelph YMCA and the City of Cambridge in roles in recreation.”

Working with aquatics and recreation isn’t just a job for him however, it’s a passion and he devotes a lot of his spare time to it as well.

“I’m involved with the Life Saving Society as a volunteer. My primary role there is as a chair of Lifeguard Services for the Ontario branch. As part of my role I help develop and promote the National Lifeguard Program,” says King. “I really enjoy aquatics and not everyone can say that they get to do what their passion is, but for me it’s not just a job, it’s a hobby. My extracurricular activities revolve around aquatics and recreation and promoting drowning prevention. My main focus is to create an environment where children can learn to be safe around water and how to help themselves if they get in trouble.”

He brings this passion to Woodstock and is already diving in head first, even though he just started on March 1.

“The big thing for me is offering a great product and service. I really want to have a friendly and welcoming environment for people to come and programs that are not comparable to anyone else,” says King. “That includes

great swim lessons, a great Aquafit program, having it all really customer focused. Doing this job is great, I love it.”

While not currently a resident in Woodstock, he is familiar with the friendly city and enjoys what we have to offer.

“I currently live in Brantford, but I have friends here and have spent a lot of time in Woodstock,” says King.

“I really enjoy it; I think it’s a beautiful city and has huge potential and would be a great place to live.”

So let’s all welcome Patrick King to Aquatics in Woodstock!

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 21 and enter today!

A: Gigi’s Pizza

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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YOUR WOODSTOCK ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTS

Green Tips

Celebrate Earth Day with WEAC On Saturday, April 19th, join WEAC volunteers at the Woodstock Farmers’ Market to celebrate Earth Day 2014. This year’s Earth Day theme, Green Cities, seeks to promote sustainable communities in the midst of a growing, urban population across the globe. Locally, the market has been operating since 1853 and is an important symbol of the urban and rural roots of our city. The Woodstock market promotes and supports Green Cities.

Buying locally helps reduce energy (fuel) and decreases carbon emissions by the food industry by eliminating the necessity of trucking produce long distances. Locally grown food also requires much less packaging, decreasing the amount of waste created!

Recent initiatives in the City of Woodstock that align with the Green Cities theme include: continued reduction of solid waste to the landfill; increasing materials accepted for hazardous waste drop off; e-waste recycling; and the introduction of a cycling master plan to decrease motor vehicle traffic. Woodstock Hydro recently announced they have achieved 150% of their energy reduction goals over the last 3 years. Just by taking part in existing programs we can all help promote green city living in Woodstock.

Annually, over a billion people in 190 countries take action for Earth Day. Our local event will take place on the Saturday before Earth Day to enable more people to participate. WEAC will be available to answer questions, discuss concerns or discuss recommendations for improved sustainability within the city. We will also have crafts and activities for kids.

We look forward to meeting you there and sharing ideas to keep Woodstock beautiful!

Brought to you by your Woodstock Environmental Advisory Committee and the City of Woodstock

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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Presents…

COMMUN I T Y CHAMPIONS – Gary Waugh –

By Karyn Matwey

F

Photo Supplied

or Gary Waugh, being a volunteer and helping out in the community is how he gives back and he has an extensive resume of doing just that.

“I do church work and I volunteer with the Ontario Amateur Softball Association (OASA) where I am the executive vice president, and I’m also on the board of directors for Softball Ontario,” says Waugh. “I love the game of fastball, this is my first year with Softball Ontario, but with both I attend board meetings and do anything they need done.”

A long-time fan of the game, he also helps out with special events.

“With OASA I look after tournaments and run and organize skills clinics,” says Waugh. “I’m also Awards Chair for them, which means I help with looking after the banquet and the awards for the association with some of the other members.”

Softball isn’t his only sports related passion however. He can often be seen on the ice at the complex shooting the puck.

“I play with the old timer’s hockey league. Although I’ve played hockey my whole life, I joined the old timer’s league when I became of age,” laughs Waugh.

His work in the community isn’t just with sports however, he often can be found lending a helping hand at Dundas Street United Church with various events and as their treasurer.

“With a group at the Church we do Pies R Us, where we make a lot of pies to sell,” says Waugh. “The money we make through sales is donated to different charities and it has been a fairly successful event for us.”

He and his wife Shirley are both attendees at Dundas

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Street United Church, and together help out when the church hosts their soup kitchen.

On top of that, Gary also has a long history with the Canadian Cancer Society, still offering his help whenever it’s needed, including driving friends and neighbours to important doctor’s appointments.

“My wife had cancer back in the 70’s and it was time for me to pay back for the help she received and so far she is cancer free,” says Waugh. “If someone needs a ride, I give it to them. I have been working with them for 15 years now.”

He is also known for being a great neighbour on his street, where he often is out helping clear the snow from driveways up and down the block.

Congratulations Gary on being this month’s Community Champion!

If you would like to nominate a person, group or company as a VIA Rail Community Champion, please contact Brad Janssen at 519-539-2382 ext. 4102 or by email at bjanssen@cityofwoodstock.ca. ™ Trademark owned by VIA Rail Canada Inc.

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 21 and enter today!

A: Lamans

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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NOTICE

PARATRANSIT

TRANSIT

Hours of Operation: (30 Minute Service) Mon. to Fri. ............... 6:30 am–6:30 pm Saturdays .................. 8:30 am–6:30 pm (All Bus Stops display a Route Service Schedule)

Info Line: 519-539-1291 ext.3104 (Mon. to Fri.) 8:30 am–4:30 pm CASH FARES* Transit Fare Rates & Special Adult/Senior Discount Passes Students (age 5–18) (effective July 1, 2008) Children (under 5)

$2.00 $2.00 FREE

*Note: Exact change is required on the bus.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT / SAVINGS PASS Han-D-Ride Value Pass 12 Rides Student/Senior (60+) Pass Monthly Adult Pass (non-transferable) Monthly PURCHASE PASSES AT THESE LOCATIONS City Hall Community Complex Engineering / Public Works Foodland Shoppers Drug Mart (East & West) TD Canada Trust (Norwich Ave) TD Canada Trust (Springbank) TD Canada Trust (Wellington/Dundas) Woodstock Public Library

$20 $40 $50

EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2012

Para-Transportation Services Available for Registered Eligible Individuals Para-Transit Service provided by the City of Woodstock NEW HOURS

Cash Fare

$2.00

Regular hours of operation Mon–Fri 6:30 am–6:30 pm Sat 8:30 am–6:30 pm

Service must be pre-booked 24 hours in advance.

Call 519-539-2382 ext. 2510 (TTY: 519-539-7268) between the hours of 8:30 am–4:30 pm, Monday through Friday and 9:00 am–12:00 pm on Saturday.

(Voicemail is available outside of regular hours).

All passes accepted on conventional transit are now accepted on Para-Transit.

Monthly Han-D- Family Pass Rides Pass yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes

Please note: passes are not available on the bus.

1 Family = 1 Pass = $5

With the $5 Family Pass, up to 5 riders can enjoy unlimited travel on all Woodstock Transit routes all day long. Some restrictions apply.

Registration forms are available at City Hall.

Note: Photo I.D. cards will be required in order to use this service.

Questions concerning eligibility criteria?

Phone 519-539-1291 12

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014 13

Summer Ro Road Co Construction is is ju just around the corner

Here are some tips on making it easier on everyone to get through

By Karyn Matwey

W

inter is finally releasing its icy grip on Woodstock and that can only mean one thing: construction season is about to start. While it can be a disturbance, road work is a necessary part of maintaining the infrastructure around town. So what can residents anticipate and what can they do to make it easier?

“You can expect a little bit of pain; and a little bit of inconvenience. When a road is under construction, it is generally closed to all traffic except local,” says Harold de Haan, City Engineer for the City of Woodstock. “Our contractors always try to make accommodations for residents in the affected areas however.”

While it can be a bother for drivers, every effort is made to lessen the impact while still getting the work done quickly.

“We ask contractors to do their best not to block off residents driveways, but it can happen sometimes and usually it is only for a short period of time during the day,” says de Haan. “The contractor will do their best leave the site in good enough condition for residents to drive down and get to their driveways.”

The goal is to make it easier on everyone and residents can do their part by planning ahead.

“We generally advise people not to plan on moving or doing front yard work during a period of road construction because sometimes we have to dig into front yards,” says de Haan. “We will always give people notice in advance including any changes to bus routes.”

Residents can also help out by staying out of construction zones as much as possible.

“The contractor will do their best to be accommodating but often people forget that the contractor is running a business in the street, they are doing a job,” says Doug Ellis, Deputy City Engineer for the City of Woodstock.

“One suggestion we have is that if you need to get in and out of your driveway frequently during the day, try to park on a side street so that the construction crew doesn’t need to keep moving equipment for you, delaying their progress.”

It is important to know that the City and contractor will work together to make sure there are minimal service disruptions while your road is being worked on.

“For garbage collection, we ask residents to bring their bins and bags out to their curb as usual and the contractor

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will bring the items to the end of the road for the trucks to collect since we don’t allow the trucks to come down roads under construction,” says de Haan. “We ask people to mark their bins clearly with their address so contractors can return them after collection is done.”

For disruptions to water, notice will be given at least 24 hours in advance so residents are prepared. If your television, internet or phone service is disrupted, you are advised to notify the contractor who will make arrangements to have it restored.

“The length of the project will determine the length of time needed, but it can be a couple of months if there is extensive work to be done,” says de Haan. “This year in particular, Brant Street and Hughson Street are the big ones.”

Weather conditions will often have an impact on timelines and can increase the level of mud, but the City asks that everyone just be patient.

They are open to feedback as well, both before and after a project is finished.

“We send out notices asking for comments and concerns as residents on the road will know more about what needs to be done and we do our best to address them during construction and restoration,” says de Haan. “We usually have a one year warranty with the contractor, so the earlier we know there’s a problem the better as we can’t do much after the warranty ends.”

So if construction crew left a hole in your front yard, notify them as soon as possible to get it repaired.

“We also want to let people know that when we do reconstruction there is often a one year wait before the surface asphalt is laid down and it is a much faster process than the previous work, so don’t be alarmed,” says Ellis.

“Putting down the surface asphalt often only takes a day or two, so there will be minimal inconvenience.”

Most importantly, residents are asked to be patient and understanding. Repairs need to be made and it is in everyone’s interest that they are done as what is left behind will be a much nicer road to drive on.

This year’s schedule for construction can be found in this month’s What’s On Woodstock or the City of Woodstock website at www.cityofwoodstock.ca.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014 15

50

United Way celebrates

years in Oxford Story by Jeff Culp

I

n the autumn of 1963, then-mayor Bill Dutton called together a group of organizations to talk about coordinating charitable fund-raising in Woodstock.

According to the minutes of that meeting, which still exist, the meeting consisted of representatives from various community agencies and UAW 636 representing the Woodstock, Ingersoll and District Labour Council.

A few months later, March 19, 1964 to be exact, letters patent were issued for the Woodstock United Appeal Association. A board of directors was set up, presided over

by H. R. Henderson, and a fundraising campaign was organized under campaign chair Harold Swanson. The goal was to raise $99,200.

When the books were closed on the 1964 campaign, just over $55,000 had been raised. The money went to support the Young Men’s Christian Association, the Young Women’s Christian Association, St. John Ambulance, the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, the Canadian Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, the Navy League of Canada and Multiple Sclerosis of Canada.

The idea was not a new one. In fact, the first in Canada of what would become the United Way was formed in 1917. Over the years, it has had many names, Community Chest, United Appeal and Red Feather among them.

The original Woodstock United Appeal Association became the Woodstock and District United Way in 1985, then United Way Oxford in 1995. The name may have changed, but the 1964 slogan, “People helping people,” remains appropriate.

“We still do that,” says United Way Oxford Executive Director Kelly Gilson, “but now we do it with a different lens. We look at community impact. We look to measure how the organizations are helping to change people’s lives.”

It is that “different lens” that may be the biggest difference from 1964, says Gilson.

“There was no role in 1964 to be a capacity builder to help strengthen organizations, but we have embraced that over time. Then, there wasn’t a focus on our ability to mobilize the community and develop human services.”

Of the original seven recipient organizations, three still receive funding from the United Way. The others, “because they have evolved and situations or community needs changed, some either no longer exist or no longer receive funding. Throughout our 50 year history, there

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have been numerous social service organizations that have received short or long term funding from United Way, all decided by informed volunteers trying to best meet the needs ,” says Gilson.

But some things haven’t changed over fifty years.

“The workplace payroll campaign is the same. Employee giving through payroll deductions was then and is today the backbone of a United Way campaign,” Gilson explains.

Another thing that remained constant has been the names of those who’ve chaired the fundraising campaigns.

Prominent local politicians, community leaders, business owners over two generations make up that list.

“It really is a who’s who, and what’s impressive is that they are all really passionate supporters. You will see some very active in the 1960s, and they come back in the 1970s and so on.” The same is true of volunteers.

“You have to look at the incredible support of volunteers and staff. Their long-lasting support is a sign of the dedication of people who believe in what they are doing,” says Gilson.

There are also donors of long-standing. It’s difficult to trace exactly, but, Gilson says, “I firmly believe there are people who donated in 1964 still donating. Unfortunately, computer records don’t go back that far so we can’t confirm it.”

Nevertheless, fifty years on, the local United Way has raised close to $24 million for local agencies.

Formal recognition of the anniversary will take place at United Way Oxford’s Annual General Meeting in June, and they are actively looking for stories or pictures from the past fifty years.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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Start your Sp Downt W

elcome spring as it arrives in all its glory.

Shed the winter and get ready for the new season with a visit to Downtown Woodstock.

With plenty of FREE parking close to home, come see your favourite merchants and the new stores and services. Great savings and friendly small town service nestled amongst historic buildings, Museum Square and a beautiful streetscape make Downtown the perfect place to be as the new season blooms!

Spring is the season of renewal and the many shops and services offering professional, courteous service make it simple.

Trade layers of bulky clothing to find the latest fashions at your favourite clothing stores. Say goodbye to thick

layers and heavy boots and say hello to light fabrics and sandals. The latest styles are arriving daily and your local merchants are brimming with fabulous finds at great prices! With apparel, jewellery and shoes, looking good and stepping out in style has never been easier.

Peel away the last of the winter blues with a visit to the spas and personal service boutiques. Relax and unwind with a facial, massage, pedicure/manicure. Your mind, body and soul will blossom with the new season.

Come out from the hibernation of the snow and cold weather. Meet up with friends and family at one of the many restaurants and pubs. New, spring menus prepared with local meats

info@downtownwoodstock.ca www.downtownwoodstock.ca

pring Fling in town Woodstock! and produce are waiting.

April means the start of Patio Season! Get social and reconnect in Downtown Woodstock.

With the snow gone, it’s time to get your home looking its very best. Refresh interiors and exteriors with new paint, décor, furniture, gardening supplies and more. The expert advice of your Downtown neighbourhood merchants will make renovations easy and affordable. Your home, garden and outdoor living space will be the best on the block.

Looking for entertainment this April? Downtown Woodstock has something for everyone with the Woodstock Art Gallery, Library, Museum and Theatre. Take in a movie or local live entertainment in

the cultural core of the City.

May follows April and that means the Downtown Woodstock Farmers’ Market in Museum Square will return with your favourite vendors and new faces.

Produce, meats, cheeses and so much more brought fresh to you and your family from your local farmers every week.

With plenty of FREE parking, Destination Downtown Woodstock is the place to spring into the new season as you Shop, Dine, Work and Play this April!

/downtownwoodstock @WoodstockBIA

Magic Bus! Woodstock Transit driver “Rabbit” Ray Harrison is a keyboard player of renown having played with such notable bands as the Greaseball Boogie Band, Crowbar, Shooter…he has also been a member of Del Shannon’s Band, has played with the legendary Etta James, toured with Chubby Checker and opened for Three Dog Night. When he’s not driving bus he still performs with Crowbar and Cameo Blues Band.

“A horse is a horse, of course, of course” Julius DeVries was employed by the City of Woodstock from November 1964 until May 1994. Julius was Woodstock’s last official dog catcher. He once found a stray horse in Southside Park, so he did what any dog catcher would do and rode it to the Fairgrounds and dropped it off. Other than rounding up stray animals he recalls being sprayed by skunks and often adopted animals that needed a home.

* City of Woodstock “Klondike” Joe Boyle Joseph Whiteside Boyle or as we know him “Klondike” Joe Boyle enjoyed an extraordinary career and life. He moved to Woodstock from Toronto with his family when he was 4 years old.

He was a mercenary, entrepreneur and national hero of Roumania were he was awarded that country’s three highest decorations. Sports played an important role in his life having travelled to Dawson City in 1897 with heavyweight boxing contender Frank Slavin before the bulk of the gold rush. His daughter Charlotte was an Olympic swimming medalist and in 1905, he equipped and brought the Dawson City hockey team to Ottawa to compete for the Stanley Cup. Notable Necklace The Mayor’s chain of office was a Canadian centennial project of the now defunct Woodstock Jaycees. The main medallion is Woodstock’s coat of arms: the harp, representing Ireland, and the two lions representing England and Scotland. There’s a medallion with a centennial emblem and the Ontario coat of arms. Other emblems featured on the chain are a plow, representing agriculture, either boxes or bricks, symbolizing industry, wheat sheaves or a barrel and beavers. Above the medallion are a gavel and sceptre.

More than a Plane Exhibition On November 6, 1912 the residents of Woodstock were treated to the phenomenon of a flying machine. It was the areas very first exposure to an aeroplane and the large and enthusiastic crowd were given a real opportunity to get up close before and after the demonstration. The pilot, Mr. Hemstrought, lived up to advance notices from the moment the extremely noisy engine started until he made a perfect landing a half-hour later..

“Amazing C.O.W. Tales” are researched and compiled by Brad Janssen

Visit us online at www.facebook.com/WhatsOnWoodstock

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the Toronto Blue Jays played the Seattle Mariners at Woodstock Day at the Rogers Centre.

Marjorie wins a $50 gift certificate from Kelsey’s Woodstock, plus she now qualifies for the $500 VIA Rail voucher to be drawn from all the monthly winners in November 2014.

–Tales ‘W ‘ Way Ba Back Wh When’ Co Contest

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THE WINNER of March’s ‘Way Back When’ Contest is Marjorie Roy! she told us that

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Thank you to our sponsors!

Do you remember Woodstock “Way Back When?” If so, you’re on your way to winning our contest.

Send in or drop off your answer by the posted deadline. We will randomly pick one winner from the correct responses. The winner’s name will appear in the next edition of What’s On Woodstock.

Here are some questions to get you thinking. Answer the last question (in bold) to enter the contest.

Q: It could be argued that this bakery produced the Q: The Century 21 Heritage House “Golden Gala” best honey dip donuts at their Dundas St. location just celebrated their 13th such successful fundraiser between Reeve and Wellington Streets in the 60’s and 70’s. (See page 11). putting them over the $1 million dollar mark for local causes. What cause was the money channeled Q: Ann and Mark Richard have owned Tony’s Pizza to after the very 1st Gala? (See page 3). since 1995, they bought the business from Gabriel Q: On what two locations in Woodstock would you D’Annibale who founded what popular Woodstock pizza company in 1967? (See page 7). find cannons? (See page 27).

Q:

What is the furthest west grocery store in Woodstock

Send your answer along with your name and phone number to bjanssen@cityofwoodstock.ca by Friday Apr.11, 2014. You can also drop your answer in the contest box at City Hall, or the Parks & Recreation Office (formerly the Community Services Office).

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

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All the history you need and want t One central location offe

By Karyn Matwey

A

re you interested in tracing your family tree?

Or maybe you are curious about the history of your house? Did you know you can easily find all that information right here in Woodstock?

The Oxford Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society, the County of Oxford Archives and the Oxford Historical Society are all under the same roof and are ready to help you in your search into the past.

“With all three in the same building, it allows access to all of our records and our expertise in one place,” says Marilyn Whyley, Chair of the Oxford Branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society.

“We often work together on queries from the public, including looking up things like the land records.”

Saving the land records was a major coup for the three organizations.

“We have them in this building and had to work together to preserve them as the provincial government at the time authorized the destruction of older land records,” says Mary Gladwin, Archivist.

“We keep them here so they are accessible and we have people who are trained on how to read them.”

Both the Genealogical Society members and the Oxford

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Historical Society members have been very busy indexing much of their material to make it easier to search through but it is a time consuming process.

“Our records go back to the early 1800s, although we do have some material from the 1790s relating to the arrival of Thomas Ingersoll and his followers,” says Gladwin. “In the archives we have information on the district of Brock, which was the precursor to Oxford County and includes administrative records, petitions and education records.”

All three organizations are always willing to take inquiries and lead tours as well as provide educational seminars for all ages.

“Genealogical societies have become a destination for vacations, last year we had people from Australia, and frequently get people from Michigan as in the middle 1800s a lot of residents P h ot o

by K a went to work in Michigan,” says r yn M at we y Whyley. “But we have had people from all the provinces come in to visit including one gentleman from Alberta who wanted to find out who his mother and grandmother were. Within two hours we had all the information he needed including who they married, and where they are buried.”

Transcriptions of cemeteries including maps of all the locations are available and are surprisingly a great place to start research.

“Several years ago I had a man asking about a cemetery and I was able to help him and provide some basic information about the property on which his ancestors had lived. Then the next year he showed up again with a family group and I gave them a tour including that of the jail building; in which he was very interested,” says Gladwin. “It turns out that he was the recently retired Attorney General from British Columbia and I was the one telling him about the executions and Thomas Cook’s death mask.”

to know is right here in Woodstock.

ers everything you need School tours are always popular and kids love getting the chance to see into the past and to learn about both famous and infamous people from Woodstock and Oxford County.

“For a while local history was pushed by the wayside in the school system, but it’s starting to come back now,” says Whyley. “We are doing a youth outreach program to help get the next generation excited about their family trees and this is one way of introducing them to researching.”

The O.G.S. members are willing to help anyone who wants to learn more or begin researching including walking tours.

“We love doing tours and talks; the Oxford Historical Society members have been giving great tours of certain districts of town, tours of historical buildings and they also have been arranging an annual Christmas Tour of beautifully decorated homes. Both the historical and genealogical societies have open meetings once a month at the library that the public is welcome to attend,” says Whyley.

“It’s a chance for people to come and ask questions and get information on what we do and about their own history.”

The Genealogical Society’s extensive collection includes birth, death and marriage records, school histories and photographs as well as newspapers archived on microfilm. They also have maps, censuses that date all the way back to 1851 and much more.

“We also have a large pictorial history of war veterans from Oxford County, including the newspaper pictures,” says Whyley. “The County Archives and both Societies have been working together on a booklet about the settlers living here

at the time of the War of 1812 and we have located almost every single person who was living and working here in Oxford in 1812. We hope to have a display at the museum.”

The goal now is to let people know where these three organizations are located, they are available to help and most importantly, that history can be fun.

“A lot of people don’t know we are here and it’s too bad because they are missing out,” says Gladwin. “We create a lot of booklets and pamphlets on local history including on the jail and another on the old House of Refuge and we also have been preparing transcriptions of the old Poll Books or Voters’ Books. In addition, we have worked with Doors Open Oxford giving tours.”

So if you would like to learn more about your family’s history, how the streets got their names, how best to preserve your photographs and important papers, or more about the architecture of your house, head into downtown Woodstock, they are located in the centre of Court House Square, behind the Public Health building and are open five days a week from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For more information visit their websites at www.oxford.ogs.on.ca for the Genealogical Society, www.oxfordhistoricalsociety.ca for the Historical Society or www.county.oxford.on.ca/archives for the Archives.

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Minor Track

Where Personal Bests are the Greatest Success

Day Camp

The Woodstock Legion Athletic Club is once again offering its Minor Track and Field Program for elementary school students ages 9-14. This program offers 14 training sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. This program is designed to teach the basics or help supplement your training for School and Regional Meets. We also introduce throwing, block starts and relay techniques. All training is held at the College Avenue Track beginning April 22 and running until June 5. Cost to register is $65 for non competitive and $80 for competitve You can contact Kaitlin Wilhelm at kaitwilhelm@gmail.com You can also obtain registration forms in advance from our website at www.wlac.ca The Woodstock Legion Athletic Club is also offering a summer day camp in 2013 for children from the ages of 6-13.

The camp will operate out of the Terry Fox Memorial Track, located at College Avenue Secondary School in Woodstock.

July 7-11 July 14-18 July 21-25 July 28-Aug 1

Aug 4-8 Aug 11-15 Aug 18-22 Aug 25-29

We offer both full day (9:00-4:30) and half day (9:00-12:00) programs Early drop off or late pick up are available for $5. (no earlier than 8:30 and no later than 5:00) The cost for the full day program is $170.00/week (subsequent weeks $160.00) Campers are asked to supply their own lunch except for Fridays which will be free Pizza Day The cost for the half day program is $80.00/week (subsequent weeks $70.00) Please note that once a camper is registered there are no refunds due to space availability You can contact Kaitlin Wilhelm at kaitwilhelm@gmail.com

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WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

The City is going to get a little greener on

Arbor Day

Organizers need your help

By Karyn Matwey

A

rbor Day is coming up and it’s a great chance to get out and help the environment while also beautifying our trails and city.

“St. Michael’s School on Devonshire Avenue is hosting us this year and we are organizing the event with the Parks Department, the Upper Thames Conservation Authority and a few local sponsors,” says Chris Kern, Parks Supervisor for the City of Woodstock. “The school initiates an environmental awareness campaign through the week and they hold an assembly with the student body doing music, readings, slide shows and skits that encourage them to be creative during Earth Week.”

The entire week of April 21-25 is devoted to celebrating our planet and doing what we can to make it better and planting trees is a great way to get started.

“On Friday, April 25 the school traditionally goes out and plants trees and this year we are hoping to do that in the Burgess and Lions Trail area,” says Kern. “The Mayor and Council members are invited, along with sponsoring businesses to help out.”

It’s not just that Friday they need assistance though.

After the devastating effects of the Emerald Ash Borer there is a big push to get the areas replanted and rebuilding and the more hands they can get, the faster it will get done.

“We need help! It’s looking better down there, but we need to plant more trees,” says Kern. “We are looking for donations to purchase trees, and anyone who is interested can call the Parks Department, or if they are interested in coming to plant, that would be

great as well.”

Kern is hoping on Saturday, April 26 to have several local groups come out for a big tree planting day, including the Boy Scouts but they are open to groups of all kinds.

“The number of trees that get planted will be based on the number of people who come out,” says Kern.

For more information visit the City of Woodstock website at www.cityofwoodstock.ca or call the Parks Department at 519-539-2382 ext. 4101.

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 21 and enter today!

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Adult Book Clubs

Connect with us

Join us the first Thursday of the month, September to June, for tasty treats and stimulating conversation. Pick up your book list in the library or on our website.

April 3rd Titles: Afternoon Title: 1:00–2:30 pm: The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Royce Evening Title: 7:00–8:30 pm: Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell

May 1st Titles: Afternoon Title: 1:00–2:30 pm: Ascent of Women by Sally Armstrong Evening Title: 7:00–8:30 pm: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

askON Chat Reference Service is now available at the Woodstock Public Library! askON is a real-time chat research and information service developed by Ontario libraries and Ask Ontario. Participating public and college libraries, including the Woodstock Public Library, contribute staff to askON’s collaborative schedule. askON is a real-time chat information service that offers immediate, interactive, and knowledgeable research and reference help online. The service can answer questions on a wide range of subjects.

Mark this date on your calendar:

The Friends of the Library Spring Booksale Returns – One Day Only!

Saturday May 24, 9 am–4 pm Once again the Friends of the Woodstock Public Library are running their annual sale of gently used books, DVDs and audio books. Choose from a wide selection of fiction, nonfiction and collectors’ items including a complete range of materials for everyone from infants to adults. The sale will take place in the Library’s Meeting Room on Saturday, May 24 from 9 am–4 pm.

Using chat, askON staff provide research guidance and can help you navigate the Internet, the library’s services, and other online resources. If you provide an email address after the end of your chat session, a transcript will be delivered to your email address, but your email will not be stored. askON ensures that visitor privacy is completely protected.

Just visit our website at www.mywpl.ca and click on the askON icon to start your chat reference session.

Service hours

Tuesdays_____________________ 10:15–11:15 am Wednesdays__________________ 2:30–3:30 pm Saturdays ___________________ 2:00–3:00 pm

Funds raised by the Friends are used to enhance library Spring Storytimes: collections and services. Interested in becoming a Friend?

Membership is only $10 for a year ($5 for seniors and students).

Each program includes age appropriate stories, rhymes, songs and Purchase a membership at the circulation desk or from a Friend at activities designed by library professionals to help children develop the book sale. literacy skills and a love of reading.

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WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2014

Family Storytime (for ages 1 to 5 years) Saturdays.........................................................10:30–11:15 am January 11–May 10 This is an interactive storytime for families with toddlers and preschoolers that includes stories, songs, active rhymes and a craft.

No registration required.

Easter Drop In Craft

(all ages) 10–4 pm, Saturday, April 19 Drop into the Children’s Department to make and take an Easter craft. No registration required. Free!

Events for Teens

Teen Scene Book Club (for ages 12–16)

7-8 pm, Tuesday, April 29 Come out to our newly organized teen book club that meets the last Tuesday of each month. If you love books and want to share your favourites with other teens then drop in to the book club and enjoy some great books and snacks. April’s title: Shelter by Harlan Coben.

Woodstock Public Library 445 Hunter Street, Woodstock, ON

Phone: 519-539-4801 Web: www.woodstock.library.on.ca or mywpl.ca

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April 2014 Events 1,4,8,10,14,17,22,24 Drop-off Tax Clinic, Salvation Army Store from 10:00 am–11:00 am and at the library from 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. This is a CRA Volunteer Income Tax Program. Info: Ron 519-539-3376.

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Thames Valley Squares Open House, 22 Wilson St. 7:00 pm–9:30 pm. Thames Valley Squares of Woodstock invite you to experience the modern version of square dancing. Info: 519-539-3716.

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Woodstock Horticultural Society Meeting, Mutual Building, Woodstock Fairgrounds, 7:00 pm. Cynthia Venables speaks on “The Gardens of Italy”. There will be a flower show, plants for sale, refreshments and door prizes. Free admission. Info: 519-539-1061.

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Soup & Sandwich Luncheon, Old St. Paul’s Church, 723 Dundas St. 11:00 am–1:30 pm. Cost $6. Come out and enjoy a great lunch and good fellowship.

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Spring Fashion Show, Unifor Hall, 126 Beale St. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Featuring ladies fashions, desserts, vendors and prizes. Tickets $20. Proceeds to Domestic Abuse Services Oxford. Info: 519-5397488 ext. 236.

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Church of the Epiphany presents Tia McGraff in concert, Quality Hotel. Cocktails at 6:00 pm, dinner at 6:30 pm and concert at 8:00 pm. $40 per person. Proceeds will go directly to DASO – Domestic Abuse Services Oxford.

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Mom to Mom Sale at Springbank Public School, 1060 Sprucedale Rd. 8:00 am–12:00 pm. Free admission. Please enter the school from the Lyndale Cres. Entrance.

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Easter Gospel with Dave Thomas and Friends, South Gate Centre, 191 Old Wellington St, S. 7:00 pm–9:00 pm. Tickets $5 per person.

Info: 519-539-9817

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Woodstock Hospital Auxiliary Spring Dessert & Card Party, Unifor Hall at 126 Beale St. Dessert, tea and coffee start at 12:30 pm.

Euchre and bridge start at 1:00 pm. Door prizes and lucky draws.

Admission $6. To reserve a table call 519-539-6673.

May 1,2,3 CAST presents Treasure Island and How to Eat Like A Child, Market

Centre Theatre, 22 Reeve St. 7:00 pm. Tickets available on line at www.theatrewoodstock.com or at the box office by calling 519-537-2582 or at Highlander Studios.

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Seniors Wellness and Lifestyle Show, Cedarview Gracious Living Retirement, 511 Finkle St., Woodstock. Friday May 9th 10am–4pm Free admission.

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Elvis Night with award winning impersonator Michael John, The

Legion, 156 Brant St. Doors open at 6:30 pm. Showtime is at 7:30 pm. Tickets $20 available at The Legion, Record Works and at the door.

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Dairy Capital Run / Walk, Southside Park, 8:00 am–12:00 pm.

The Dairy Capital Run is a great family event! A 10K Run, 5K Walk/Run,2K FUN Walk/Run and the L’il Hoofers Race for kids ages 2–6. Info: Anita 519-421-4226.

There has never been a better There has never been a better time to join Craigowan!! time to join Craigowan!!

• SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP PROMOTION Pay your in FullMEMBERSHIP and Don’t Pay Membership Dues for Two Years • Initiation SPECIAL PROMOTION *some restrictions apply*

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• NEW FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTION • NEW FLEXIBLE PAYMENT After a minimum down payment, you can make monthly interest free OPTION payments starting at $146* per month *some restrictions apply*

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• 1 YEAR TRIAL MEMBERSHIP – No Initiation* •1 YEAR TRIAL MEMBERSHIP – No Initiation* Spend one year experiencing the benefits of being a member at Craigowan Spend one year experiencing the benefits of being a member at Craigowan

WHY JOIN CRAIGOWAN? WHY JOIN CRAIGOWAN? Craigowan is a member-oriented, family friendly golf and country club.

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Experience the challenges and satisfaction of a truly great course! Designed by Canadian Golf Hall of Experience the challenges satisfaction of a truly great course! by100 Canadian Golf of Fame architect Clint “Robbie”and Robinson in 1959.

Craigowan is ratedDesigned in the Top Courses in Hall Ontario Fame architect Clint “Robbie” Robinson in 1959. Craigowan is rated in the Top 100 Courses in Ontario or call him at 519-462-2743 ext. 222 or call him at 519-462-2743 ext. 222 www.craigowan.com www.craigowan.com