whatsonwoodstockapril2017

Community Services Guide

April 2017

70th Anniversary Victoria Day Parade theme ‘Red & White’ to celebrate Canada 150

Help the Earth!

Spring Clean-up & Arbor Day bookend Earth Week

Name a city facility to promote your business Pg. 5 Easter Egg Hunt set for Saturday, April 15th Pg. 28

Go Green Woodstock ? t i l l Go Green Woodstock e s t ’ n se it?

Ca u e r t ’ n Ca

Then it’s time to bring it to…

Saturday, April 1 8:00 am–12:00 noon

Public Works, 944 James St., Woodstock Acceptable Items: ✔✔Mattresses and box springs ✔✔Furniture ✔✔Couches and chairs ✔✔Tables ✔✔Desks ✔✔Armoires ✔✔Chests ✔✔Headboards ✔✔Carpet (6ft, rolled up) ✔✔Floor lamps ✔✔Pool Covers

✔✔Pool Filters (no sand) ✔✔Barbecues ✔✔Water Softeners (no salt) ✔✔Tires ✔✔Glass ✔✔Windows ✔✔Lumber ✔✔Construction debris ✔✔Concrete ✔✔Appliances ✔✔Microwaves ✔✔Toilets

This is your chance to bring items normally not accepted for curbside collection. Take advantage – if you can haul it, we can take it!

Note: The Bulk Item Depot does not accept household hazardous waste (e.g. paint, pesticides, propane tanks, batteries and fluorescent bulbs), or appliances with refrigerants (e.g. water coolers, dehumidifiers, freezers and refrigerators).

Why not give your old stuff a second chance!

ReuseApalooZaha Saturday, April 1st from 8:00 am–2:00 pm

Located in the barn at the Fairgrounds just off Nellis Street.

Drop off your castoffs and take home whatever you like at the one-day free store. Visit www.reuseapaloozaha.ca

www.cityofwoodstock.ca

© toonstyle.com - Fotolia.com

Bulk Item Depot Day

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 15 and enter today!

A: Woodstock Christian School.

What’s On

Photo by Bill Polzin

Photo by Andrew Norris

5 8 10 16

How to name an arena

Naming a City facility to promote your business, helps the community. See page 5.

70th Annual Victoria Day Parade The theme this year is ‘Red & White’ to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday. Participate in the parade by float, car, bike or walking. It’s free! See page 8.

Bullwinkle’s

Woodstock’s most unusual restaurant is making Woodstock better. See page 10.

Do your part for Earth Week

Woodstock plans to be a bit greener thanks to a number of Earth Week activities. See page 16.

City Schedules and Services

Photo supplied

Photo supplied

2 4 6 8 12 13 16 17 18 18 19 22 23 24 26

Bulk Item Depot Day Message from City Council Parks Dept.: Spring Tree Planting WEAC: Green Tips – Seed Saving Workshop Engineering Dept.: Recycle Electronics Engineering Dept.: Wasteline App WEAC: Green Tips – Spring Clean Your Garden Parks Dept.: Spring Clean-Up Day Community Complex: Skating Schedule Dog Owners – Did You Know?

Woodstock Public Library Transit & Para-Transit Woodstock Museum N.H.S. Woodstock Art Gallery How to Report a Streetlight Issue

Next Edition Cover includes photo by Bill Polzin and photo by Mariusz Blach – Fotolia.

The May 2017 edition of WOW will be delivered with the Oxford Review on April 27, 2017.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 3

Message from City Council…

Photo supplied

Photo by Bill Polzin

W

ell, here it is, the month we have been looking forward to all winter! April signifies new beginnings with warmth and growth. The blue jays and Blue Jays have arrived and all our furry friends (not the Tigers) have awoken and are active again. It is time to dust off that baseball equipment and golf clubs and put air in those bicycle tires.

Councillor Todd Poetter This year the ball players are extremely excited as our new North East Recreation Complex (no official name yet) will be in full swing as soon as the weather permits.

As I write this article the temperature is warming up and there is no snow to be found. We certainly cannot complain about the winter that we had this year, but, we will anyway! Our city continues to shine in almost all aspects of city growth: population is now well over 40,000, the housing market continues to boom and business and industry continue to choose Woodstock to be their new home. Our city offers so much in the way of recreation and leisure so take advantage and get active this spring by joining one of our many clubs, sports leagues, etc. or just enjoy walking one of the many trails in the city.

Some of the special events planned for the month of April include the Easter Egg Hunt, Saturday, April 15th, 11:30 am at the Woodstock Fairgrounds racetrack infield; Woodstock Day at The Rogers Centre, April 29th; and, Arbor Day celebrations at Oliver Stephens Public School on April 28th.

In closing, please keep an eye on the the city web page and social media for the listings and updates of all city events.

You can email or call Councillor Poetter with comments or concerns at tpoetter@cityofwoodstock.ca.

CITY OF WOODSTOCK

PHONE DIRECTORY

CONTACTS Volume 19

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 Flying Squirrel Design.

E-mail: wow@flyingsquirreldesign.com.

Mail/Courier: 9-1201 Nellis Street, Woodstock, Ontario N4T 1N8 Editorial written by Jeff Culp. Ad deadline for May 2017 edition: March 29, 2017 Call Brad Janssen at 519-539-1291 x 4102 to book your advertising today.

4 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

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 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.

Photos supplied

Named in your honour?

Opportunities abound for supporting the community through acquiring naming rights to many of our popular City attractions.

S

uppose you want the Woodstock District Community Complex named after you or your company? It’s totally possible.

The first thing you do is contact Emma Vondervoort, the City’s Supervisor of Recreation Programs, Grants and Sponsorships, and you are on your way to your own Rogers Centre, Air Canada Centre or Budweiser Gardens.

And how much would that set you back?

“We can come up with a package for your company and negotiate what would be incorporated in a naming package,” she says.

“We have guidelines that give us a starting point. It depends too on the individual, whether they are a service club or a private company. Of course, if you want it for ten years, it’s different than having it for 15 or 20 years.”

Naming rights are also available for the Southside Aquatics Centre and the Civic Centre Arena.

Named facilities in Woodstock are often named for organizations that made a significant donation to the construction of the facility, like Lions Pool for the Lions Club, or Cowan Park for Cowan Insurance. But you don’t have to go that big.

“We have so much available,” says Vondervoort. “The Community Complex has two ice pads we’re calling the red and green ice pads. At the Aquatics Centre we have rooms upstairs. A room we call ‘Room A’ is used for a ton of programs like safety courses, aquatic leadership training courses and others.” And your company’s name could be on it.

“There’s also the outside splashpads at Vansittart Park and the new East Woodstock Rec Complex opening this summer,” she says.

“There are basketball and pickle ball courts and tennis courts, and the boathouse pavilion and bandshell pavilion at Southside Park.”

The new East Woodstock Rec Complex, in the city’s east end, has three ball fields, a concession stand and more.

“We have lots of small things, too,” she says. “Rink boards, hydration stations, ice logos and the Zamboni.”

The city also invites sponsors for events – big ones like Canada Day and Cowapolooza, or smaller ones like public swims or public skates.

It would probably take an entire advertising agency to handle all the city’s sponsorship opportunities. For now, Vondervoort is focused on the Parks and Recreation Departments – parks, arenas and aquatics. She has been assembling an inventory list of opportunities since she started the job last summer, and hopes to have the listings with descriptions posted on the City’s web site by summer this year.

Why would you want your name on something?

“It’s a great way for an individual or family to demonstrate their commitment to the community, and helping our community grow.” It can also demonstrate a personal connection.

“If your family spends a lot of time and really enjoys the Aquatics Centre, maybe sponsor the summer swim team,” she says. “It not only helps the community grow, it can also help a local business grow. If they sponsor a public swim, people who go to the swim see that sponsorship.

People recognize this, and think highly of it.”

If your family has a personal connection with Southside Park, for example, you can sponsor a bench in memory or honour of someone.

Not just recreation facilities have sponsorship opportunities. There are lots of opportunities on, or in, city buses, for example. There are cultural opportunities to sponsor an exhibit at the museum or art gallery. Although Transit and Culture are not her focus, Vondervoort says you can contact her and she will help you arrange a sponsorship.

You can call her at the city’s main number, extension 2708, or by e-mail at ParksandRecreation@cityofwoodstock.ca.

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 15 and enter today!

A: Parkes Pharmacy.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 5

Spring Tree Planting

6 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 7

70th Anniversary Victoria Day Parade

Green Tips

Seed Saving Workshop Are you interested in food security, gardening, self-sufficiency or sustainability?

The Woodstock Environmental Advisory Committee (WEAC) and the Woodstock Public Library (WPL) are pleased to present Bob Wildfong, Executive Director of Seeds of Diversity Canada and the horticultural teacher at the Waterloo Region Museum.

Bob will be offering a beginner seed saving workshop on Thursday, April 13th from 7:00– 8:00 pm at the Woodstock Public Library. Bob will go over basic seed saving techniques that are essential to saving your own high quality seed.

Help us celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday!

Put a float in the Victoria Day Parade

I

t’s free and it’s fun. The 70th annual Victoria Day Parade is coming up May 22nd, and we’re still looking for parade floats. The deadline to enter a float in the parade is Before the seed saving workshop, be sure to check April 13th, and entry forms are available at the city’s website cityofwoodstock.ca. out the Woodstock seed library on the second ou$interested$in$food$security,$gardening,$self3sufficiency$or$sustainability?$ There are a few restrictions on floats. You can’t pass out story of the WPL to pick up some interesting pamphlets, for example, because that might slow down the seeds for this year’s garden.

Woodstock!Environmental!Advisory!Committee!(WEAC)!and!the!Woodstock! parade. To prevent injuries, you are not allowed to throw c!Library!(WPL)!are!pleased!present!Bob!Wildfong,!Executive!Director!of!Seeds! things from the float into the crowd. If your float is pulled When: Thursday, April 13th versity!Canada!and!the!horticultural!teacher!at!the!Waterloo!Region!Museum.! by horses, you have to have a clean-up crew following the th will!be!offering!a!beginner!seed!saving!workshop!on!Thursday,!April!13 !from! from 7:00–8:00 pm float. m!at!the!Woodstock!Public!Library.!Bob!will!go!over!basic!seed!saving!

Use your imagination to decorate the float. In honour niques!that!are!essential!to!saving!your!own!high!quality!seed.!!Before!the!seed!

Where: Woodstock Public Library of g!workshop,!be!sure!to!check!out!the!Woodstock!seed!library!on!the!second! Canada’s 150th, this year’s parade theme will be red and white. !of!the!WPL!to!pick!up!some!interesting!seeds!for!this!years!garden!!

Cost: Be sure to show up The parade entry form will require the length and width a few minutesth!From!7L8!pm! before 7:00 pm When:!Thursday,!April!13 of the float, its name, and how many people you intend to put on the float. Also, floats are limited to 11 feet in height. to secure ! a seat.

Where:!The!Woodstock!Public!Library!

The Victoria Day parade is one of the most popular !

Mark your calendar!

This event events in Woodstock, so register your float today.

Seed Saving Workshop

Free!

ost:!Free!!Be!sure!to!show!up!a!few!minutes!before!7!pm!to!secure!a!seat!!

is perfect for families and child gardeners.

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

8 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

A crowd favourite, the Burlington Teen Tour Band performing in the 2016 Victoria Day Parade.

Photos by Bill Polzin

YOUR WOODSTOCK ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTS

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 9

Photo by McCarony – Fotolia

Making Woodstock Better Bullwinkle’s Restaurant

I

t is Woodstock’s most unusual restaurant. Open Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:45 to 1:30, in the basement of the Moose Lodge on Sutherland Drive, Bullwinkle’s is unique because, “it has replaced a soup kitchen,” says Bullwinkle’s manager Vanessa Giuliano.

It’s a real restaurant, “where everyone from the community is welcome, and what you pay is on a sliding scale from one dollar to seven dollars,” she says.

In addition to assisting diners, Bullwinkle’s workers are mostly participants in a training program. A professional, trained chef, Giuliano leads trainees through a 10-week program, “where participants learn culinary skills, life skills, leadership and independence.” The current “class” of five, is the tenth group to go through the training program – every participant so far has graduated, and four have found employment. In addition to the trainees, there are two permanent staff.

Bullwinkle’s is an Operation Sharing program, and operates with contributions from the Oxford Foundation, Ontario Works, the United Church’s Gifts with Vision, private donations (including Toyota) and, of course, facilities donated by the Moose Family Centre.

In a typical week, about 65 diners will be served, about 60 percent of whom may have used a soup kitchen in the past. The other 40 percent are from all sectors of society.

“Everyone pays for their meal,” says Giuliano. “It’s actually a donation. Of course, we will still feed you if you don’t have a dollar, but we strongly encourage people to pay.”

10 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

By having people of all social classes eating together, a sense of inclusion is fostered at Bullwinkle’s, she says.

“There’s an inclusiveness that comes from integrating the community with people eating together and learning from each other. We all can share stories and learn from each other.”

Bullwinkle’s celebrated its first anniversary this past March 1st, and it has been very successful.

“The folks who generally used the soup kitchen mention how their health is better, and how important it is to be included – they walk into the restaurant, and pay for their meal, just like everyone else here.”

A soup kitchen still operates in Woodstock (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), but Bullwinkle’s is a new concept.

“Is this the answer to food security?” Asks Giuliano.

“No, but it’s still a progressive step forward.”

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 15 and enter today!

A: Hudson’s Furniture Store is a 3rd generation family business that celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2011.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 11

RECYCLE OUT OF USE

ELECTRONICS!

Good for the Environment! Good for You!

FREE ELECTRONICS DROP-OFF AT CITY OF WOODSTOCK 944 JAMES ST., WOODSTOCK 7:30 AM–5:00 PM

ACCEPTABLE ELECTRONICS: • Desktop & Laptop Computers • Cell Phones & Tablets • Printers & Peripherals • Digital Cameras • Monitors & Televisions and More…

For full details, please visit: www.thinkrecycle.com

www.greentec.com | Toll-Free: 1-519-624-3300

12 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

W

Helping kids in crisis 24–7–365

alk So Kids Can Talk is a 5K walk held the first Sunday in May. Walkers participate from across Canada to support the Kids Help Phone – it’s the largest Canadian walk in support of child and youth emotional health and well-being. Locally, the walk will be at College Ave Secondary on May 7th – registration starts at 9:00 am, and the walk kicks off at 10:00 am.

The Kids Help Phone is a national toll-free number(1-800-668-6868) that kids in crisis can call for support.

For the past 27 years, the Kids Help Phone has supported young people as they build skills to improve their emotional health and well-being. The number – always staffed – provides an array of counselling options and a wide range of therapeutic online resources. (KidsHelpPhone.ca).

Presented by BMO, the line has been accessed 7.1 million times, and receives about 500 calls per day.

To raise awareness, the walk is always held on the first Sunday in May – Mental Health Awareness Week.

Astro Athentikos and Black Diamond CHEESTRINGS will give an added boost to fund raising efforts this year by matching the first $40,000 raised by walkers. To register, donate and for more information, visit http://walksokidscantalk.ca.

Stay connected with Wasteline Woodstock has a new tool for garbage and recycling reminders. Wasteline tools help you keep track of your garbage and recycling collection schedule. Get the information you want when you want it by using the “When’s my pickup?” tool, signing up for automated reminders, or by using the Wasteline app.

Visit the ‘Waste App’ or ‘What Goes Where?’ www.cityofwoodstock.ca/en/garbage-recycling.asp www.cityofwoodstock.ca/en/sorting-bluebox.asp ✔✔ View, download and print your collection calendar. ✔✔ Sign up for weekly reminders (email, phone or Twitter). ✔✔ Add a schedule to your personal calendar (iCal, Google Calendar or Microsoft Outlook). ✔✔ Type the name of a waste material and we’ll tell you where it goes for recycling, composting or disposal.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 13

70th Annual Victoria Day Parade This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Woodstock Victoria Day parade. In the 1960’s the parade floats and walkers would organize at Victoria Park. The parade would proceed to Dundas St., head east to Huron St. to Cedar St. then west onto Henry St. to Finkle and then into the park just south of the Cedar Creek bridge. Now the parade begins at the Fair Grounds west onto Dundas to Wellington to Henry to Finkle. This year’s parade is scheduled to go on Victoria Day Monday, May 22. The theme is “Red and White” get your float/bike/car/ walker registration form at www.cityofwoodstock.ca It’s FREE… the more the merrier!

Shopping in Style Today’s Art Gallery once housed The John White Co., a department store with three outstanding features: a large toy department, a rickety open caged elevator (with an operator!) and a system of pneumatic tubes, which carried away a customer’s payment, and magically produced their change and an invoice stamped “paid.” * City of Woodstock

Southside Park’s Humble Beginnings The crown jewel of Woodstock’s Park system two millponds at the lower end of Wellington – Southside Park was born in July of 1909, between Finkle and Victoria Streets. Cedar at a special meeting of Woodstock’s Parks Creek was in rough shape… its water was Commission. The Commission had two choices blackish and smelled. This land was acquired to proceed with the park. The first, and and plans moved forward to create a park preferred option, was the city’s north end. much to the dismay of the City taxpayers. The The property under the civic eye was at the Sentinel-Review invited readers to name the end of Wellington Street, and bordered on park. Some suggestions included: Hellovasite: the Thames River. It seemed to be everyone’s for it’s regrettable location; Frogmore: after first choice. The other property was less the residents of the swamp; and, Atlantis: favourable. There was a swamp draining into sunk beneath a sea of mud.

Soxy Footwear E.E. Paquette & Sons operated a very successful hosiery at the corner of Dundas and Delatre streets for the better part of 83 years. The business provided thousands of jobs over the years until its closing at the beginning of 2007 and produced an extensive variety of hosiery over the years such as “anklets” as illustrated in this image from a 1950 calendar.

COW Tales have been contributed by Brad Janssen, Jeff Culp and Paul Roberts.

Visit us online at www.facebook.com/WhatsOnWoodstock

14 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

Cow-tales

way back when

CONTEST

THE WINNER of March’s ‘Way Back When’ Contest is

Linda Farrington of Woodstock! She correctly answered that the Rec & Leisure Fair was held in the Reeves Community Hall at Cowan Park. Linda wins a $50 gift card from Kelsey’s/Montana’s, plus she now qualifies for a $100 Kelsey’s/Montana’s gift card to be drawn from all the monthly winners in November.

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. 433 Dundas St. (the current location of Coffee Culture) has housed

many businesses over the years including a stationery shop and a hair salon. What was the name of the pharmacy that operated here for many years? (See page 5)

Q. Which former City Councillor has a ball diamond named after him?

(See page 26)

Q. What school is geographically located the furthest south within the City? (See page 3)

Q. What is the oldest operating retail store in downtown Woodstock?

(See page 11)

Q. Name a location in Woodstock where you can find a phone booth.

Send your answer along with your name and phone number to bjanssen@cityofwoodstock.ca by Friday, April 7th, 2017.

You can also drop your answer in the contest box at City Hall.

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 15

Photo supplied

YOUR WOODSTOCK ENVIRONMENTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESENTS

Green Tips

Spring Clean Your Garden Winter is barely a memory but at the first signs of spring we know you’re going to be out in your garden. Here are some ideas to get you started: ✱✱Remove the debris. Rake dead leaves and twigs. ✱✱Prune back perennials before the old growth gets tangled up with the new. ✱✱Add all debris and twigs to your backyard composter for fresh spring compost the following year or take it to the yard waste depot on James St. ✱✱When frost has passed, cut back woody stems where blooms only occur on new branches. (lavender, buddleia, etc) ✱✱Trim tattered foliage to encourage new growth. ✱✱Cut back ornamental grasses. You don’t need to wait for new growth. ✱✱Remove winter rose protection. Early spring is the perfect time to prune roses before leaf buds open. ✱✱Rake any mounded mulch or soil. ✱✱Early flowering trees and shrubs set their flower buds before winter and should not be pruned in spring. ✱✱Evergreens require little care but spring is a good time to fertilize. ✱✱Take action against weeds with proactive weeding while soil is damp. Don’t compost your weeds. ✱✱Top dress your garden with compost, manure or slow release fertilizer. ✱✱Divide or transplant your perennials as soon as the new plant emerges. ✱✱The sooner you stake, the easier it is on plants. ✱✱Mulch: conserves water, cools roots, feeds soil and smothers weeds. Every garden deserves a layer of mulch. There are free woodchips to use as mulch at the yard waste depot. ✱✱Don’t forget to check out the Seed Library at the Woodstock Public Library and watch for upcoming workshops on how to save your seeds to keep the library growing!

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

16 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

Spring Clean-up, Arbor Day bookend Earth Week

E

arth Week is April 22–29 this year, and two annual events will bookmark each end of the week.

Park Supervisor Chris Kern says the week kicks off with Spring Clean-up, April 22. Volunteers are encouraged to meet at the Parks Office in Southside Park at 8:00 am on the 22nd, where they will pick up bags and gloves, then be taken by Woodstock Transit to a number of pre-arranged locations.

“We’ll be back by noon for a free barbeque at the Parks Department,” says Kern.

At the end of Earth Week, there is the annual Arbor Day celebration. Each year, a school in Woodstock hosts the celebration by planting trees. This year the event will be hosted by Oliver Stephens. The ceremonial tree planting takes place after school assembly.

In conjunction with the planting, the Parks Department is having an art contest, judged by the Art Gallery. The lucky Oliver Stevens student art winners will get a free lunch at Boston Pizza.

The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority will plant trees with the students at an earlier time at Field 1 at Burgess Park.

Even though it’s past Earth Week, a larger tree-planting will take place on May 6 at Standard Tube Park. Be at the entrance to the trails at 41 Dundas west near the railroad bridge at 8:30 am and help plant 1,400 pine, willow and birch trees. This planting will reinforce the re-planting done some years ago after Emerald Ash Borer devastated the trail. The initial re-plant replaced many of the trees, but some of the saplings died, some areas were never re-planted and some samplings became tasty snacks for deer living in the trails.

“That’s okay,” says Kern. “It’s what deer do.”

The Parks Department is also encouraging people to get outside and enjoy nature during Earth Week. If people want to do some local clean-up of a neighbourhood park, let the Parks Department know, and they can provide safety tips, gloves and bags.

Spring Clean-up

WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017 17

WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY COMPLEX ADULT SKATING — FREE

e 17ags Du 0 t 2 T as g Do w P no e r a

Pet Owners — Did you know?

SPONSORED BY CITY OF WOODSTOCK PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

◗◗ All dog owners are required to register their dog(s) with the City of Woodstock.

Participants must be 18 years of age or older.

◗◗ Dog owners who do not register their dog

by January 31 of each year may be subject to a fine.

Monday

1:45–2:35 pm

Southwood Red

Wednesday

2:15–3:35 pm

Southwood Red

NO SKATING DATES — April 10, 17 • ENDS APRIL 26

PARENT & TOT SKATING — FREE SPONSORED BY CITY OF WOODSTOCK PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT Maximum age of child participants is 5 years of age.

Pucks and sticks are NOT PERMITTED on the ice.

Parent and Tot gliders (skating aids) will be available.

Monday

4:00–4:50 pm

Southwood Green

Wednesday

1:15–2:05 pm

Southwood Red

Thursday

9:45–10:45 am

Southwood Red

NO SKATING DATES — April 10, 17 • ENDS APRIL 27

PARENT & TOT SHINNY HOCKEY — FREE SPONSORED BY CITY OF WOODSTOCK PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT Maximum age of child participants is 5 years of age.

Pucks and sticks ARE PERMITTED on the ice.

All participants must wear a helmet and gloves.

Parent and Tot gliders (skating aids) will NOT be available.

Tuesday

9:30–10:20 am

Southwood Green

NO SKATING DATE — April 11 • ENDS APRIL 25

519-421-3484 (Ext.4301) Woodstock District Community Complex 381 Finkle Street

18 WHAT’S ON WOODSTOCK | April 2017

◗◗ The tag you purchase annually gives your dog the best chance of being returned to you.

If your dog accidentally gets away from you and is picked up by Animal Control, they have a means to contact you. ◗◗ Without a tag, dogs that are picked up are held for 3 days and then put up for adoption.

Where to purchase your dog tags ◗◗ Online payment – if you are registering a new dog or have received an invoice, you can visit www.cityofwoodstock.ca and pay online.

When your payment has been processed we will mail you a receipt and a tag. ◗◗ Woodstock City Hall (Main Floor), 500 Dundas St, Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. (or drop your invoice and payment in the after-hours deposit box at the Reeve Street entrance. When your payment has been processed we will mail you a receipt and a tag). ◗◗ Woodstock Public Library, 445 Hunter Street (you must have your invoice) Monday–Friday, 10:00 am–8:30 pm Saturday, 10:00 am–5:00 pm Sunday, 1:00–5:00 pm ◗◗ If you did not receive your invoice please visit main floor of City Hall or call 519-539-2382 ext. 2502. ◗◗ Questions? Call 519-539-2382 ext. 2502 or email clerksinfo@cityofwoodstock.ca

Photo by Shuva Rahim – Fotolia

Maker Lab (6–12 years) 2:00–3:30 pm, Saturday, April 8 Each month we will introduce kids to really cool gadgets and gizmos. Build robots, try your hand at computer programming, or create using our 3D printer, just to mention a few. No registration required. Free!

Teen Minecraft (10–14 years) SPRING STORYTIMES Each program includes age appropriate stories, rhymes, songs and activities designed by library professionals to help children develop literacy skills and a love of reading.

Family Storytime (1–5 years) Saturdays.........................................................10:30–11:15 am January 7–May 13 Join us in the program room for this interactive storytime for families with toddlers and preschoolers that include stories, songs, active rhymes and a craft. No registration required.

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR KIDS

6:30–8:00 pm, Tuesday, April 4 Test your Minecraft skills the 1st Tuesday evening of each month Registration starts the Tuesday before each program. Free!

Funding provided by the Government of Ontario

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

7:00–8:00 pm, Tuesday, April 11 The Library is looking for teens age 13 to 19 who want the opportunity to share their ideas for ways to improve our teen services, YA collections and to help plan fun events for teens. You can also earn community service hours towards your high school diploma. Interested teens can contact Heather Mathers for more information at 519-539-4801, or email hmathers@mywpl.ca New members are always welcome!

Photo by Lisa F. Young – Fotolia

Jr. Minecraft Program (6–9 years) 1:00–2:00 pm, Saturdays, April 1, 22 Show us your building talents in this creative and collaborative building program. Registration starts the Monday before each Saturday program, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited, so register early.

Sr. Minecraft Program (10–14 years) 2:30–3:30 pm, Saturdays, April 1, 22 Make your defenses strong to survive in Minecraft! Registration starts the Monday before each Saturday program, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited so register early.

Funding provided by the Government of Ontario

Teen Drop In (11–15 years)

6:30–8:00 pm, Tuesday, April 25 Drop in on the 4th Tuesday evening of each month for a variety of techy activities using our green screen, laptops, iPads, robotics and much more. Snacks provided. No registration required.

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Author Event

Thursday, April 6th at 7:00 pm

Adult Book Clubs

Please join us for lively discussion and refreshments the first Thursday of each month. New members are always welcome!

Afternoon Book Club April 6, 1:00–2:30 pm The Little Paris Bookshop – Nina George Photo supplied

May 4, 1:00–2:30 pm A Superior Man – Paul Yee

Evening Book Club

Ann Walmsley author of “The Prison Book Club”

2016 Edna Staebler Award for Creative Non-Fiction Come out to hear Ann share how the joy of reading can set you free and her experience of being a book club volunteer at Ontario men’s prisons.

May 4, 7:00–8:15 pm On the Shores of Darkness, There is Light – Cordelia Strube

Brain Games

1:00–3:00 pm, Monday, April 3 Gather in the meeting room the first Monday of the month for a great workout for the brain. Socialize as you participate in trivia challenges, Scrabble, and other fun activities for the mind.

Refreshments are permitted. No registration required.

The Prison Book Club follows six particularly involved book club members who kept journals at Ann’s request and participated in candid one-on-one conversations. Graham the biker, Frank the gunman, Ben and Dread the Jamaicans, and the robber duo Gaston and Peter, come to life as Ann reconciles her knowledge of their crimes with the individuals themselves, and follows their lives as they leave prison. Woven throughout is the determined and compassionate Carol Finlay, working tirelessly to expand her program across Canada and into the United States.

Seed Saving Workshop with Bob Wildfong

Learning American Mah-Jongg

7:00–8:00 pm, Thursday, April 13 Are you a gardener interested in saving your own high quality seed? Bob Wildfong, executive director of Seeds of Diversity Canada, and horticultural teacher at the Waterloo Region Museum, will be offering a beginner seed saving workshop.

No registration required.

10:15 am–12:15 pm, Tuesdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25 Mah-jongg is a game of skill and strategy with an element of chance. Learn the basics of playing American Mah-jongg during a four week program being offered by the Library. Score cards and Mah-jongg sets will be provided. Participants must be able to commit to the first three sessions. Register in person at the second level information desk or phone 519-539-4801. Space is limited so register early.

Writer’s Circle

Creative Space

6:00–8:15 pm, Wednesdays, April 5, 19 Have you ever wanted to write fiction, craft a memoir or write poetry? Would you like feedback, encouragement and the chance to share with other writers? Then join our writer’s circle open to all ages from teen to senior. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of each month. No registration required.

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1:00–3:00 pm, Wednesdays, April 12, 26 This is an opportunity to gather and converse with like-minded creative people and share your talents: knitting, needlework, crocheting, sketching, however you express your creativity. Meet in the fiction area of the Library the second Wednesday of the month. Refreshments are permitted. No registration required.

Computers for Beginners, Part 1

10:15 am–12:15 pm, Mondays, April 3, 10, 24 This is a three week hands-on Windows computer basics course for beginners. Registrants are asked to bring their own Windows laptop, if they have one. Build your computer skills and knowledge with a new computer topic each week: hardware and operating system; software and applications; saving and storage.

Registration is ongoing, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited so register early.

iPad for Advance Users

Photo supplied

2:00–4:00 pm, Friday, April 7 A continuation of the hands-on iPad intermediate tutorial for intermediate users. Learn even more about your iPad including iCloud, photos, and more. Registration is ongoing, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited so register early.

Android Tablets for Beginners

Traveloguing @ WPL

Italy with Noelle Carr Rivard

7:00–8:00 pm, Thursday, April 27 Choosing a travel itinerary in Italy is like choosing the perfect dessert: each option is a delight. Join us for this travelogue highlighting the areas of Rome, Liguria and the Veneto regions.

We will delve into the secrets of ancient Roman ruins, peruse the romantic Renaissance art of Florence, hike the lush terraced vineyards of the quaint villages of the Cinque Terre and cruise the quiet back canals of decadent Venice.

Tech Coaching @ the Tech Bar

Try one or more of these quick tech coaching sessions for a variety of technology applications and devices. Please, no hardware setup or troubleshooting requests. Registration is ongoing, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited so register early.

Tech Topics

Date

Time

Downloading library eBooks and eAudiobooks for the following devices: iPad, Android, Kobo, Windows, Mac, Chromebook

Fri, Apr 7 Wed, Apr 19 Fri, Apr 28

10:15–11:15 am 2:15–3:15 pm 10:15–11:15 am

Navigating your Android or Kobo

Wed, Apr 12 2:15–3:15 pm

Navigating your iPhone, iPad or Macbook

Wed, Apr 5 Fri, Apr 21

2:15–3:15 pm 10:15–11:15 am

Email support (including Wed, Apr 26 2:15–3:15 pm downloading app, creating account) for Gmail, Yahoo Mail, Hotmail/Outlook and email attachments

2:00–4:00 pm, Friday, April 21 This is a hands-on Android tablet basics session for beginners.

Registrants are asked to bring their own Android tablet, all makes and models welcome. Registration is ongoing, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited so register early.

Android Tablets for Intermediate Users

2:00–4:00, Friday, April 28 This is a hands-on Android tablet basics session for intermediate users. Registrants are asked to bring their own Android tablet, all makes and models welcome. Registration is ongoing, in person or by phone. Spaces are limited so register early.

Mother’s Day Photo Booth

11:15 am–1:00 pm, Saturday, April 29 Following Family Storytime, bring your little ones for a photo opportunity – green screen style! Choose from a selection of spring backgrounds and props, then have the photo emailed to you just in time for Mother`s Day! Register in advance for your 20-minute timeslot. Please arrive 20 minutes before your timeslot to choose your background and props.

Spring Hours

Monday–Friday...........................................10:00 am–8:30 pm Saturday......................................................10:00 am–5:00 pm Sunday..........................................................1:00 pm–5:00 pm

Woodstock Public Library 445 Hunter Street, Woodstock, ON Phone: 519-539-4801 Web: www.mywpl.ca

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TRANSIT

Hours of Operation: (30 Minute Service) Mon. to Fri............... 6:00 am–10:00 pm Saturdays................. 8:00 am–10:00 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

PARA-TRANSIT Effective August 2, 2016

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

Transit Fare Rates & Special Discount Passes (effective Aug. 2, 2016)

CASH FARES* Adult/Senior $2.50 Students (age 5–18) $2.50 Children (under 5) FREE

*Note: Exact change is required on the bus.

SPECIAL DISCOUNT / SAVINGS PASSES Han-D-Ride Value Pass 12 Rides Student/Senior (60+) Pass Monthly Monthly Adult Pass (non-transferable)

$25 $48 $60

PURCHASE PASSES Monthly Han-D- Family AT THESE LOCATIONS Pass Rides Pass City Hall ✓ ✓ ✓ Community Complex ✓ ✓ ✓ Engineering / Public Works ✓ ✓ ✓ Fanshawe College (Student Pass only) ✓ Foodland ✓ ✓ ✓ Shoppers Drug Mart (East & West) ✓ ✓ ✓ South Gate Centre ✓ ✓ ✓ Southside Aquatic Centre ✓ ✓ ✓ St. Mary’s H.S. (Student Pass only) ✓ TD Canada Trust (Springbank) ✓ TD Canada Trust (Wellington/Dundas) ✓ ✓ ✓ Woodstock Public Library ✓ ✓ ✓ Please note: passes are not available on the bus.

Group Pass • 2–5 riders • $7.50 all day With the $7.50 Group Pass, up to 5 riders can enjoy unlimited travel on all Woodstock Transit routes all day long. Some restrictions apply.

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Cash Fare

$2.50

Regular hours of operation Mon–Fri 6:00 am–10:00 pm

Sat 8:00 am–10:00 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–7:00 pm, Monday through Friday and 9:00 am–7:00 pm on Saturday.

(Voicemail is available outside of regular hours).

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

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

Woodstock Museum

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Art Gallery

Fun walk supports Domestic Abuse Services Oxford

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fun walk-fundraiser for Domestic Abuse Services Oxford (DASO) will be held in Museum Square June 1st. It’s a new event adapted from the former “Walk in her shoes,” where men can try their skills walking in high heels. Now called “Men in Heels/Lunch on Wheels,” it offers two optional walk time opportunities – at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. followed by a lunch offered by downtown restaurants and food truck vendors.

Strapping on the heels (provided by DASO) is an option. Fortunately for those daring men putting on the heels, the walk is a short one.

The event will raise money and raise awareness to combat violence against women in the community. Just to keep their current programs, DASO requires an annual budget of $200,000.

Registration is just $20, but there are other ways to help sponsor the event. Visit the DASO web site www.daso.ca to download a registration form or to become a sponsor.

Check out the COW Tales ‘Way Back When’ contest on page 15 and enter today!

A: Jack Dunn… the front diamond at the Community Complex.

WHO DO I CALL… TO REPORT A STREET LIGHT ISSUE? Burnt out lights, Flickering lights, Lights on throughout the day, or damaged poles.

Langley Utilities Contracting Inc. has been contracted to maintain and repair our street lights.

Woodstock residents are asked to call Langley Utilities directly to report any street light issues: • During Business Hours: 519-640-2048 (Mon. to Fri., 8:30 am to 4:30 pm), • After Hours or Emergencies: 1-800-863-6665.

When reporting an issue, please provide as much detail as possible, such as: • Location (e.g. address closest to light, same side or across the street), • Direction (e.g. s/w corner), • Pole number (if possible) and • Issue (e.g. light burnt, light flicker, etc.).

We thank you for your assistance!

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70th Anniversary Victoria Day Parade Monday, May 22, 2017

Help us celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday Parade theme is ‘Red & White’ The Community Events Billboard April 1 1 1–8

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Bulk Item Depot Day, Public Works, 944 James St., 8:00 am–12:00 noon. Details at www.cityofwoodstock.ca.

ReuseApalooZaha, Woodstock Fairgrounds Barn, Nellis St., 8:00 am–12:00 pm. Visit www.reuseapaloozaha.ca.

Theatre Woodstock presents “Willow Quartet,” Market Centre Theatre, 22 Reeve St., 8:00 pm (2:00 pm matinee on Apr. 2), Adults $22, Students $15, Youth under 12 $12.

Details and tickets at www.theatrewoodstock.com or call the Box Office at 519-537-2582.

Woodstock Optimist Club’s Paint Nite Fundraiser, Boston Pizza, 431 Norwich Ave, 7:00–9:00 pm, $45. Please RSVP and register now at http://paintnite.com/pages/events/view/ londonon/1161434.

Spring Dinner & Dance, South Gate Centre, 191 Old Wellington St. S., Cocktails at 6:30 pm. Tickets $20.

Last day to purchase tickets is April 5th.

Woodstock Horticultural Society, Mutual Building, Woodstock Fairgrounds, 7:00 pm. Master Gardener, Jim Fitzgerald will speak on “Flowers in Cuba”. Bring & Buy plant sale, door prizes and refreshments. For info call 519-533-0356.

Easter Gospel Sing, South Gate Centre, 191 Old Wellington St. S., 7:00–9:00 pm with Dave Thomas & Friends. Tickets are $5, light refreshments included.

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Seed Saving Workshop, Woodstock Public Library, 445 Hunter St., 7:00–8:00 pm, Free. Bob Wildfong, Executive Director of Seeds of Diversity Canada will be offering a beginner seed saving workshop. Come early!

Presented by WEAC and Woodstock Public Library.

Ingersoll Choral Society Performs “Come,Touch the Robe”, Sacred Heart Church, 131 Thames St N., Ingersoll, 8:00 pm.

A stirring performance with orchestral accompaniment.

Free will offering will be received.

Easter Egg Hunt, Woodstock Fairgrounds Racetrack Infield, 11:30 am. Family event for ages 2–11. Bring your own basket. Details at www.cityofwoodstock.ca.

Future Oxford Expo, Oxford Auditorium, Woodstock Fairground, 8:30 am–6:00 pm. Expo showcases local successes and leadership in taking environmental action, building a vibrant economy, and pursuing health and wellbeing for all citizens. Visit futureoxford.ca/expo.

Volunteer Appreciation Lunch & Show, South Gate Centre, 191 Old Wellington St. S., 12:00 pm. Complementary lunch tickets for our volunteers. Show folllows at 2:00 pm.

Oxford Historical Society, Woodstock Museum, NHS, Dundas St., 6:45 pm, Free. Susan Shepley will present a talk on Aimee McPherson. All are welcome.

Sponsored by the Victoria Day Parade, May 22

Floats, cars, trucks, walkers, bikes…

1. This annual Parade is NOT meant as an advertising campaign for participants.

Any advertising must be limited.

The sign may have the name of the organization and/or the name of the float on it.

2. In order to prevent accidents and/ or slowing down the parade, the distribution of pamphlets etc. is NOT permitted.

3. All entries utilizing horses must arrange for a clean-up crew to follow. Proof of Crew MUST be made to the Parade Marshal prior to the parade.

4. Absolutely NO throwing material from your float to the crowd.

5. All Floats (i.e.:buses,wagons,car(s)) must be decorated.

6. When entries are received and accepted, full parade particulars will be forwarded to the organization’s representative.

7. There is no entry fee for participation in the Victoria Day Parade.

8. DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES: Thursday, April 13, 2017

Download the registration form at www.cityofwoodstock.ca and email the completed form to the Woodstock Communications & Special Events Office at bjanssen@cityofwoodstock.ca

Easter Egg Hunt