April 22, 2021

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Elmira, Ontario, Canada | observerxtra.com | Volume 26 | Issue 16

Business | 11

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Local fire services get share of $5 million Provincial funds to address pandemic impacts in depts.

Sean Heeger Observer Staff

Carrie Briscoe is the coordinator of the St. Jacobs Business Improvement Area (BIA), whose members are having to cope with the latest lockdown.

Sean Heeger

Stay-at-home order the latest hurdle for local business Damon MacLean Observer Staff

AT THIS POINT IN THE pandemic, lockdowns are nothing new for business owners. But there’s something different with the latest stay-at-home order, recently extended by another two weeks by the Ford government, in that

people are increasingly frustrated by the uncertainty.

“I think that we’re all a little bit more anxious this time around, just because we’re still trying to pay our bills from the previous lockdowns. And anxious because of the spread – the new variant is much worse. Anxious because

we’re trying to make sure all of our safety measures and precautions are in place,” said Elmira Home Hardware owner Krista McBay, noting that’s a sentiment shared by some of her colleagues in the Elmira Business Improvement Area (BIA).

“We feel like we’re asking our employees

to do more. And everybody’s tired. Everybody’s exhausted. Everybody’s frustrated. We’re noticing a lot of people are, I don’t know how to describe it, just exhausted – I think pure mental and emotional exhaustion.”

Businesses have faced a variable range of rules and regulations, closures and

operating changes since the pandemic began more than a year ago. It’s been difficult, with the latest changes adding to the stress, as both the Elmira and St. Jacobs BIAs have noted among members.

Compared to the post-Christmas lockdown, some things remain the → LOCKDOWN 5

LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENTS ARE NOW starting to see a share of a $5-million provincial fund to help them deal with pandemic-related measures.

Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris last week announced $163,800 for Waterloo Region fire services, money that will benefit all seven municipalities as they address impacts from COVID-19.

Funding is expected to enhance fire safety training and support safety inspection programs to ensure compliance with the Ontario Fire Code.

“Like every other community service, COVID-19 has created new challenges and risks for local fire departments. In the past, training for fire fighters has always been in person, as have fire safety inspections. This $163,000 in regional funding will help move training and

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

2 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Walk for dog guides goes virtual again Sean Heeger Observer Staff

Sandra James, Deb Cserhalmi, and Cheryl Bauman of the Floradale Friend of Dog Guides Lions Branch Club are taking a walk to raise Sean Heeger funds for Dog Guides Canada along with Flossy, Portia and Bindi.

THE WALK MAY NOT BE in-person for the second year in a row, but that is not stopping the Floradale Friends of Dog Guides Lions Branch Club from participating once again in the Pet Valu Virtual Walk for Dog Guides.

In support of the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides, the annual walk looks to raise money for the organization that trains dogs for people

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living with a variety of disabilities. The second virtual walk sees participating Lions Clubs and individuals within the community who want to raise money for the organization.

The Floradale club has not been around long and is already participating in their second walk. With a goal set at $4,000, the club has already exceeded their goal as they look to continue raising money for Dog Guides Canada. → GUIDE DOGS 4

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 3

Page Three

If it matters to you.

It matters to us.

Correction

From the archives

A story about the Paradise and District Lions Club that appeared in last week’s edition incorrectly identified the club’s president, Tim Cronin. The Observer regrets the error.

Centre Wellington Township hit the jackpot this week, receiving its first share of cash generated from the slot machines at Elora’s Grand River Raceway. In an official ceremony held at the raceway grounds Apr. 20, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation presented township Mayor Russ Spicer with a cheque for $394,470.

News tips are always welcome.

Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com Online: observerxtra.com/tips

From the Apr. 24, 2004 edition of The Observer

Vaccination rates remain low in the region Damon MacLean Observer Staff

THE REGION OF WATERLOO IS closing in on having 30 per cent of adults receive at least one vaccine dose, expecting that expanded availability at community locations such as pharmacies will

boost the still relatively low numbers.

At midweek, 151,575 doses had been administered, representing 29.2 per cent of eligible residents over the age of 18. Those fully vaccinated represent less than three per cent of the population, however.

The region reached the 25 per cent mark a week ago, a milestone for the vaccination task force, said Jennifer Davis, the group’s lead of command operations during the weekly pandemic briefing April 16.

“One positive that has come from our efforts is

that as of yesterday we had 25 per cent of those eligible residents in Waterloo Region 18 years or older that have now received their first shot, so that is a great thing but we have a long way to go,” she said of the region’s goal of inoculating at least 75 per cent of residents.

Efforts continue to be hampered by supply problems.

“The current delay in vaccine delivery is going to have an impact on our vaccination efforts in the coming weeks,” said Davis. “We have been opening clinics to build our capacity to vaccinate

more residents of Waterloo Region as quickly as possible. We’re ready to get vaccines in arms as soon as we get them.”

More locations such as pharmacies are now onboard with administering the AstraZeneca vaccine, with eligibility → VACCINE UPTAKE 4

Trees for Woolwich unveils plans for sprawling Elmira Nature Reserve Ambitious project covers 65 acres Steve Kannon Observer Staff

WHAT IS TODAY LARGELY NEGLECTED scrubland adjacent to the town’s eastside industrial area will be transformed into the Elmira Nature Reserve, Trees for Woolwich’s latest transformational project.

The goal unveiled Tuesday night at Woolwich council involves turning some 65 acres of marginal township land into a thriving ecosystem for native species of flora and fauna.

The project area, which runs in an area between Union Street and the railroad tracks, includes a location known as The Habitats, a six-acre field that’s being turned into a showcase of five different habitats that can be found within southern Ontario: tall grass prairie, oak savannah, maple beech forest, early succession forest and wetland. The Elmira Nature Reserve is a more

expansive project that goes beyond planting trees to actually creating a functional ecosystem, Trees for Woolwich chair Inga Rinne told councillors.

First up will be the elimination of invasive species that have overrun large segments of the land, eventually replanting with a variety of native trees and plants.

“The work on The Habitats is well underway, but it turns out that while The Habitats was a good start, we were ignoring some real potential, and we were thinking much too small,” said Rinne of the impetus for the project. “As we worked on The Habitats, we came to realize that the surrounding 65 acres had tremendous potential, but it was an area that was being slowly degraded by invasive species.”

Mark Schwarz of Earthscape said the plan for the entire site encompasses habitats already in place, → NATURE RESERVE 6

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Gayle Gibson, a retired Egyptologist, this week gave an online presentation about mummies to the Woolwich Seniors Association.

Submitted

Egyptologist the latest expert to speak with local seniors at popular WSA web series Sean Heeger Observer Staff

THE WOOLWICH SENIORS ASSOCIATION (WSA) has been taking on new activities over the last year in an effort to keep their members active despite stay-at-home

orders and the need for social distancing.

Through the Active at Home program, seniors in the township have been able to bring activities such as fitness, arts, and trivia right to their homes.

One of the most popular activities over the last year

is the coffee social webinar, an online meeting in which seniors learn from experts in their field.

This week, the coffee social invited retired Egyptologist Gayle Gibson to bring her expertise on that ancient culture.

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coordinator with the WSA, having Gibson at this week’s coffee social helped bring the history of mummies and this ancient civilization back to life.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

4 | COMMUNITY NEWS

MUMMY TALK: Ancient Egypt continues to be a fascination topic for audiences, especially seniors, says expert →FROM 3

all have our own attitudes and thoughts around mummies, but I thought it would be really neat to learn about the lives behind the mummy and bring a little bit of ancient Egypt to life,” said Lucier.

“There’s a lot of histories to be learned looking at the story of this person, this particular mummy will bring us a little bit of education about the life they lead the history of ancient Egypt. So, I’m really looking forward to this topic. I think it’s going to be really interesting for people… we’re looking forward to hearing about the story, which will bring some of that information with the lives of the people

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behind the mummies.”

During her presentation, Gibson spoke of the fascination that the western world has with mummies, while highlighting one of the oldest residents who has been living here since the mid-1800s.

“I’ll be talking about mummies in general, but mainly, the focus will be on a mummy who has been in the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) for over 100 years and has been in Canada since 1859.

[Antjau], is the oldest inhabitant of the city and anyone who has been to the Royal Ontario Museum has met him.

So, I’m talking about his journey to Canada, [his time] in Canada, and what we know about him as a person,” said Gibson of her coffee social presentation.”

Starting his life in Canada in 1859, Antjau is a mummy who began his time in Cobourg before setting up permanent residence at the ROM in

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1904 (originally part of the Victoria College museum).

Gibson first started giving an iteration of the speech she gave to the WSA about two years ago.

When it was first created, she says it lasted about 20 minutes for the in-person lecture she gave. Since

then, she has given this speech twice more – the WSA was the third audience to hear the speech (and first seniors group to benefit from a virtual Gibson lesson). However, this version was different, as Gibson says she never gives the same talk twice.

Submitted

“I’ll usually get the talk going and I will add this or take that away. Depending on the audience I will also move things around so they’re always a little bit different. This is the third time I have given this one and it is different every time,” she added.

GUIDE DOGS: Event raising money to help offset the cost of training each dog, estimated at $25K →FROM 3

Deb Cserhalmi, walk organizer with the Floradale branch club, says the importance of supporting a fundraiser like this is life-changing for those who are truly in need of a dog guide.

“They (Dog Guides Canada) first started off with canine vision and that was the only one they did now they’re up to seven. So, we do canine vision, hearing, service

for people with physical disabilities, seizure response, diabetic detection, autism, and now we have a new support dog.

The support dog is used by facilities like police and the courts to have a dog there so that when people speak, they’re calm and can relax a little more,” said Cserhalmi. “All our fundraising is dependent on volunteers; we get no government funding at all, and these dogs truly

change people’s lives.

Whether it’s someone who’s blind and can’t get out and walk, whether it’s someone having a diabetic episode, the dog can detect that. And for kids with autism, they have a best friend forever.”

On average, it costs about $25,000 to provide a dog guide, the cost until they retire. She says most of the money goes towards their training and, amortized over a working life of about

10 years, the cost does not end up looking too bad.

Aside from not being able to get out and fundraise as easily as they could before COVID-19, Cserhalmi says a problem the organization has faced over the last year is not being able to graduate their dogs as easily as they could before.

“A major thing is that they can only graduate dogs in Ontario that are within an hour, an hour

and a half of the school, because the clients can’t stay overnight. So, people either have to come in and train with our dogs, or the trainer’s go to the homes and learn in home.”

The walk is currently ongoing and will run until May 28.

To sign up for the walk, or to donate to the club visit walkfordogguides.com/fundraisers/ FloradaleFriendsofDogGuides.

VACCINE UPTAKE: More pharmacies on board with wider rollout of AstraZeneca vaccine →FROM 3

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Gayle Gibson’s talk focused on the mummy named Antjau, a long-time ROM staple.

She says she tried to localize her presentation for the group by trying to connect it to Elmira in some way, however, it does not seem like there was much to be found. In this version of the presentation, she expects to delve further into history of mummification, why we are interested in mummies and where this fascination first began.

She says the complexities of creating a PowerPoint presentation for an online group is not much different than creating one for an in-person lecture with hundreds of hours going into making sure everything is perfect for either group.

During her time doing presentations, she says seniors’ groups are always the most engaged because their life experiences help to make the conversation more interesting as they always have great questions and bring their knowledge and life experience into the talk.

this week lowered to those 40 years of age and older, down from 55 last week.

Locations included the Shoppers Drug Mart in Elmira and Breslau Pharmacy & Wellness Centre.

Shots are available by appointment.

Although more clinics are opening up and eligibility is increasing, it’s

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not smooth sailing at this point, said Davis.

“All of this is all positive, but I will remind the community that the vaccine supply in the region does remain unstable.”

In regards to the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine, a reduction in supply is expected and may disrupt the rate of distribution in the region.

According to Davis, that decrease and the ongoing supply issues with the Moderna vaccine “is one of the things that we continually reassess on a daily basis to make sure that we are using vaccine up as quickly as we possibly can, without having to cancel appointments that are already booked. What that does mean, though, is that in the next few weeks, people may see that one of our larger clinics needs to close.”

Davis says the goal right now is to use up all vaccine

Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang, the region’s medical officer of health, this week received her first dose of the AsSubmitted traZeneca vaccine at her neighbourhood pharmacy.

in case a closure of a clinic would become necessary.

“I just want to assure anyone that if you see a clinic, there’s only one reason the clinic would be closed. And that is because

we have no vaccine. So, our priority will be to use up every amount of vaccine that we have in the fridges.”

The taskforce continues to move through the

Phase 2 eligibility groups and are continuing to ask the citizens of the district to continue to following public health measures even after being vaccinated fully or in-part.

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

COMMUNITY NEWS | 5

Shortage of foster homes has Family & Children’s Services looking for new volunteers Sean Heeger Observer Staff

AT A TIME WHEN WE’RE encouraged to stay home to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, not everybody has the option, or even a home where they can shelter in place.

Children in need of foster care, for instance, are bearing the brunt of a reduction in the number of foster-parent locations in the region.

That prompted Family & Children’s Services of the Waterloo Region (FACS) to note that there are no homes for kids aged 10 and above.

If they can’t be placed locally, those children could be moved to foster homes outside the region, the agency says. That poses a problem for kids who stand to lose out on their already established connections, and they may lose the ability to reconnect with their families, says Victor Santiago, family recruitment worker with FACS. “When we look at older children, so we’re looking at children from

10 to teenagers, they have established friend network circles, their schools. But the biggest drawback for them is that our foster parents often serve a role of really trying to get those children back to their families for reunification. And the foster parents locally here work with the families, helping them with access to the child, often foster parents will become mentors to the biological families of the foster children in their care,” said Santiago.

“So, when we don’t have the local foster parents, the children become disconnected from their community, their schools, their friends. And then the other part is that it makes it more difficult and [creates] more barriers to the family having access to the child, and for the foster families to help the bio family.”

Some 300 kids are currently in the foster care system within Waterloo Region. FACS has 93 foster homes where third-party members of the community take in kids who need care. There are also

120 “kin homes,” meaning kids are placed with members of their family such as aunts, uncles, and the like.

Of those 300, there are about 80 kids who are currently not placed within Waterloo Region and have had to be moved elsewhere to find them a home. Also, there are currently only two homes available that can accommodate taking in siblings.

Santiago says the current lack of options can be attributed to a loss of about a quarter of the available foster homes.

“So, [the last year] has actually been quite a challenging year for us. We’ve actually seen that in 2020, we lost 25 per cent of our foster homes, just in terms of our overall capacity.

Now, a lot of that is mainly due to older foster parents were retiring, some were foster parents with over 40 years of service and they’re retiring. Right now with the ongoing pandemic, it’s made things quite challenging in terms of bringing new people on and, of course, people right now are a

little bit more hesitant to open up their homes to new people. We aren’t able to get out in person to talk to folks about fostering and our training is also now being done virtually, which also poses a challenge for a lot of people,” said Santiago.

He says over the last few years they have seen a 10 per cent decrease annually, but this year has been especially difficult on them.

FACS is currently looking for more foster families to join them and help give homes to the kids who need them. Santiago says the process is about nine weeks and includes nine mandatory courses, home inspections, police checks, and more to ensure the applicants are the right fit.

Santiago says because they are part of the region’s pandemic response, there are positions open to house kids who may have caregivers incapacitated by COVID19.

For more information visit www.fosteringkids.ca or call 519-576-0540.

LOCKDOWN: Businesses face challenges, uncertainties as pandemic drags on →FROM 3

same; however, some changes are notable, including in-person sales of only items deemed essential by the provincial government.

The constant switching is difficult, said McBay, noting the current stay-athome order has brought with it more adjustments for business operators.

“Essential versus non-essential, that’s the biggest confusion for this one,” she said, noting customers have different takes on that. “If my toilet explodes, I’m going to call that essential. But under the government regulations, that’s considered a non-essential item. You know how difficult it is to have somebody explained to you over the phone, or by fax or by email, what they need when their toilet is overflowing? Not everyone is a plumber.”

Luckily, McBay can offer some in-store purchasing since they are designated a grocery store with the recent launching of the M&M Express Shop, but for some businesses in town, this third lockdown may just be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

Most retailers have had to close their doors, offering

only curbside pickup at most.

“You’re going to see some [businesses] not open up again. Sadly, I think that some of them have – I don’t want to name any names, but I think that there’s a few there’s a couple I know of off the top that have just ... they just can’t do it anymore. They’re just done. I’ve also seen in the community people who are just deciding that they’re refocusing on what’s important in life, and can’t do this anymore.

So, they’re looking to retire or they’re looking to change their piece of life completely. It’s just, feels like there’s something settling over the whole community,” she said.

The St. Jacobs BIA is experiencing some similar struggles among its members. “[It’s] difficult for all businesses, especially small businesses, with the shutdown, stay at home order and all of that, retail isn’t able to be open anymore. So, it’s just relying on online purchases, and curbside pickup. If it’s restaurant, it’s takeout, which is always a challenge for restaurants,” said coordinator Carrie

Krista McBay is the owner of Elmira Home Hardware.

File photo

Briscoe.

“With the warmer weather, it’s a little bit different than the winter season, when people weren’t really coming out. We are obviously as a village not encouraging people to be out and about, however, people want to be outside. And so, if they want to come and shop safely and also get takeout, then that’s great.

So that’s been happening a little bit. It’s very difficult for small business in general.”

Fortunately, the businesses in the village are not currently facing

the risk of closures, and some new shops are even popping up, she added With the ongoing uncertainty, Briscoe asks for continued community support, which she says is more vital now than during the former lockdown.

“All I can say is it’s a scary time to own a small business. The third shutdown is not ideal and we’re hoping that things get better for the summer and the fall and that there isn’t another shutdown or lockdown in the future because it’s really detrimental to the business. It’s been over a year now of this. A lot of drops in sales and things for businesses.

So, we just continue to encourage people to be safe but also support local as much as possible and not shop at those big box stores if they can avoid that.”

The BIA in Elmira is also calling for patience during these trying times.

“Hang in there. Just hang in there. Be patient with us. We’re doing our best to make sure that you get what you need.

And when we come back, we’ll come back strong. I just hope it’s sooner than later,” said McBay.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

6 | COMMUNITY NEWS

Public health officials see pandemic situation growing more dire just now Damon MacLean Observer Staff

NATURE RESERVE: Big plans from Trees for Woolwich →FROM 3

some currently being worked on by Trees for Woolwich and the Township of Woolwich Environmental Enhancement Committee (TWEEC), and some as-yet untouched areas.

For instance, an area of sycamore trees at the north end, near the township dog park, already contains some large, older trees, but the area could use more coverage, with new trees to be added, he explained.

Among the habitats envisioned are the likes of a ‘Carolinian Forest Walk,’ ‘Cedar Thicket,’ ‘Spring Flowering Trees’ and ‘Silver Maple Ash Swamp,’ an area already home to some large maples.

“It’s a really beautiful ecosystem that exists already, and we just have to do a little bit of elimination of invasive species that have crept in, but most of it is beautiful,” said Schwarz.

Likewise, an area designated ‘Pollinator Meadow’ is mostly just mown grass now.

The plan is to let the grass grow in, developing into a real ecosystem.

“It’ll be home to a lot more pollinators, birds, reptiles even – snakes and frogs – so that’s better for the ecosystem, and it can also be a lot more aesthetically pleasing.”

The project is a long-term undertaking, with some results decades away, said Schwarz.

The area has seen some 2,000 trees planted by the volunteer groups since 2004, with Rinne estimating another 3,000 will have to be planted to develop the nature reserve.

Noting that Trees for Woolwich has received significant support from corporate and private donors, she said she’d come to council for an endorsement of the project, not for funding ... at least not yet.

“It’s amazing what you’ve put together there, and it’ll be even more amazing in 70 years,” said Coun. Patrick Merlihan.

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STILL DOING BETTER THAN THE province as a whole, Waterloo Region is nonetheless in a dire situation in the battle against COVID-19, says medical officer of health Dr. Hsiu-Li Wang.

There’s plenty to be worried about, she said during the region’s weekly pandemic briefing.

“My three key highlights for today are, one, our cases in the region have increased rapidly; two, cases of variants of concern are continuing to increase and are now the predominant strains in Waterloo Region as in Ontario; and three, it is imperative that we stay at home and only go out for essential purposes. Each of us needs to do all that we can to help slow the spread, help reduce community transmission and help protect our healthcare system.”

As the situation worsens, public health officials have been calling for more measures to help curb the spread.

The province is expected to announce more restrictions later today, beyond the current stay-at-home order.

Waterloo Region is currently dealing with 605 active cases of COVID-19, with daily spikes not seen since the high-water mark over the Christmas holiday. Since the start of the pandemic, the region has seen 13,085 cases, of which 12,212 (93.3 per cent) have been resolved. There have been 246 fatalities.

Public Health is monitoring outbreaks in 20 locations, up three since yesterday.

Rates in the region remain below provincial averages, but that’s no reason to be complacent, said Wang.

“Overall in Ontario, the situation is quite dire. Cases are surging with the average incidence rate for Ontario, now at approximately 182 cases per 100,000 per week. This has now exceeded the highest peak of the second wave in Ontario,” said Wang, noting that the region’s incidence rate is 100 per 100,000 per week, the highest it has ever been.

The region is now seeing an increase in variants of the COVID-19 virus, indentify-

ing all three seen in the province thus far.

“The three variants of concern have all now been detected in Waterloo Region.

This week, we received reports of both the B.1.3.5.1 variant that is the variant first detected in South Africa and the P1 one variant that is the variant first detected in Brazil. This is not unexpected: cases of variants of concern are continuing to increase and are now the predominant strains in Waterloo as in Ontario. Viruses constantly changed through mutation and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time.

Sometimes new variants emerge and disappear. Other times, new variants emerge and persist,” said Wang, adding that the public health measures remain the best protection against COVID-19 and its variants.

Ahead of expected announcements of new provincial restrictions, Wang voiced her support for more action.

“I’m really hoping to hear about additional measures. Nobody wants additional measures – they’re very hard for many people – but the situation that Ontario’s in is dire. And it will get worse.

And so we just all need to pitch in and do everything we can and reduce our mobility even further.”

In Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph, there were 609 active case, up from 590 a week earlier.

That catchment area’s cumulative total was 6,463, of which 5,748 (88.9 per cent) have been resolved. There have been a total of 106 fatalities since the pandemic began, unchanged in the past seven days.

The province is seeing growth in the total number of cases, with the tally now at 424,911, up more than 30,000 in the past week.

There have been 7,757 deaths attributed to the virus, representing a mortality rate of 1.8 per cent. The ministry reports 374,213 cases (88.1 per cent) have been resolved.

The latest numbers from Health Canada show 88,327 active cases nationwide. The cumulative total of confirmed cases now stands at 1,131,773, with 23,667 related deaths, a mortality rate of 2.1 per cent.

FIRE SERVICES: Some help for pandemic-related costs →FROM 1

inspections online, keeping our communities and frontline fire service personnel safe,” said Harris.

“Health and safety is our government’s number one priority. Protecting the brave men and women who serve our community is something that should always be at the forefront. Our local fire services have always been there for us in our time of need and in return, we need to be there to support them. Rural fire departments in particular are stretched for resources so this funding will make a big difference.”

The funding to each municipality will enhance in-person and online education by increasing access to additional training. Updates to specialized critical equipment such as high-speed internet are also on the way, to enhance virtual training and enable remote options to both support fire safety and compliance with the fire code, while also limiting exposure to the virus.

Harris says funding could be used to connect fire halls to high-speed internet, and even allow for remote options for inspections.

Woolwich is set to receive $10,700, while Wellesley receives $7,300. The remaining funding breaks down with Kitchener receiving the largest portion ($62,100), then Cambridge ($36,600), Waterloo ($30,400), Wilmot ($9,600) and North Dumfries ($7,100).

“The Woolwich Fire Department is appreciative of this funding opportunity from the provincial government, which will help address the impacts to municipal fire services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This investment will be put to good use by enhancing our online training presence and upgrading our technical rescue expertise which will ensure the safety of our fire personnel and our communities,” said Woolwich deputy fire chief Dennis Aldous in a statement.

Wellesley fire chief Paul Redman said the funding is timely.

“It was a nice surprise, but it wasn’t the sort of thing that I think many people knew was coming… We are in a business that doesn’t really bring in generally a lot of money but it does cost a lot. So anything helps, ” said Redman.

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

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COMMUNITY NEWS | 7

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Lunches 11am-4pm Wed Apr 28 & Thurs Apr 29

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Stories you won't find anywhere else.

Thank You Firefighters were called out to a Reid Woods Drive manufacturing plant on the morning of Apr. 16, but the smouldering was quickly Damon MacLean contained.

Police opt out of some measures of new provincial COVID-19 regs In the aftermath of the latest provincial lockdown in which the Ford government proposed extending police powers to enforce pandemic restrictions, the Waterloo Regional Police announced they would not be exercising such options.

“We will not be conducting random vehicle or individual stops. As before, our initiatives will be both complaint driven or proactive, with the goal of gaining compliance. Those that refuse to comply will receive the appropriate penalty,” the

APRIL 11 10:30 PM | A member

of the Wellington County OPP conducted a traffic stop on Highway 6 north of Alma. While speaking with the driver, the officer observed drug paraphernalia within the vehicle. Police also recovered a quantity of a substance suspected to be crystal methamphetamine from within the vehicle. As a result, a 39-year-old of Wellington North Township man was charged with ‘possession of a controlled substance-methamphetamine’ and ‘drive vehicle with cannabis readily available.’ The accused is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Guelph on May 14 to answer to the charges.

APRIL 14 12:58 PM | Waterloo

Regional Police received a theft report involving a

Police and bylaw enforcement have stepped up monitoring of Trinity Bible Chapel near Heidelberg, where there have been run-ins over pandemic regulations.

Sean Heeger

service said in a release following the province’s April 16 announcement.

Police said they would review the new regucatalytic converter. The complainant, reported that his vehicle was parked near Bonnie Crescent in Elmira and believed the theft occurred sometime between April 13 at 6 p.m., and April 14 at 10 a.m.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police at 519-570-9777.

8:01 PM | P o l i c e responded to a Curtis Street, Breslau address for a report of a disturbance. As a result of the investigation a 27-yearold man was charged with ‘assault with a weapon.’

There were no injuries.

APRIL 15 8:42 AM | P o l i c e responded to Queens Bush Road in Wellesley for reports of an attempted theft. The complainant reported that sometime overnight, unknown suspects cut the padlock securing a cage full of propane cylinders. After

lations to determine the most appropriate enforcement response for citizens of Waterloo Region. the suspects discovered that the cylinders were empty, they left the area without taking any property. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police at 519-570-9777.

APRIL 17 8:00 AM | Wellington

County OPP responded to a report of a single-vehicle collision on Highway 6 near Sideroad 5 north of Fergus. While speaking with the driver, police formed the opinion that they were under the influence of alcohol. A roadside screening test was conducted that resulted in a fail. The driver was arrested and brought to a local OPP Operations Centre for further testing. A 30-year-old Fergus man was charged with ‘impaired operation - 80 plus.’ A 90-day administrative driver’s licence suspension and seven-

“However, at this time, our current enforcement response will remain the same – with a focus on the 4 Es – Engage (with the individual), Explain (why we are there), Educate (on the rules and regulations), and Enforce (as a last resort).

“It’s vital that we all take this pandemic seriously and do what is needed – stay home and practice public health guidelines.

This is about doing your part, doing the right thing so we can all get through this and return to some type of normal.”

From the Lorentz Families!

On behalf of the Lorentz families, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who came to our aid when fire took our barn on Monday, April 12th, 2021. It was a sad day and great loss for our families to see the barn, built by our ancestors in 1893, go up in flames late that Monday evening.

We are incredibly thankful for the quick response of our local hero’s on the St.Clements Fire Department, and other neighbouring volunteer fire departments who came to assist with the blaze. A special thank you also to Martin excavating who worked tirelessly to help to control the burn and clean up debris after the fire. We are also grateful to neighbouring farmers who assisted with the cleanup.

Much gratitude goes out to all family, friends, neighbours and passers-by who helped round up the cattle, and to neighbouring farmers who helped gather and hold the cattle. Thank you kindly to Vernla Livestock who transported the cattle late in the evening, and to Foster Livestock who generously offered to house and care for the herd over night.

We feel truly blessed for the love and support of the many family and friends who have offered food, comfort and prayers during this difficult week has been overwhelming. We’ve been shown once again how people in small communities rally together when tragedy strikes. We will be forever grateful.

day vehicle impoundment were initiated. The accused is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice - Guelph on May 4.

3:08 PM | Emergency services responded to a First Street, Elmira location for reports of an ATV rollover. As a result, one male youth was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

APRIL 18 7:28 PM | Waterloo

Regional Police responded to Golf Course Road in Conestogo for a breakand-enter report. The complainant advised that unknown suspects entered his garage and stole a scooter. The suspects were last seen fleeing in an older model Dodge pickup truck.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police at 519-570-9777.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 8

Opinion

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Verbatim

The Monitor

“The time has come for Premier Ford to admit the error of taking away paid sick days from workers and to recognize that his government is out of excuses to continue to deny workers this right. If Doug Ford is serious about halting the spread of COVID-19, and I believe he is, then paid sick days play a key role.”

Journalism, the main vaccine against disinformation, is completely or partly blocked in 132 (73%) of the 180 countries ranked by the Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Journalism is totally blocked or seriously impeded in 73 countries and constrained in 59 others.

2021 World Press Freedom Index

Unifor national president Jerry Dias

OBSERVER EDITORIAL

Ford needs a better read on the pandemic situation

W

ith public expectations admittedly low, Doug Ford earned kudos for his actions early on in the pandemic. For the most part, he let the experts do the talking, acting in accordance with the scientific advice he was given.

Rather than make himself the center of attention, unlike some politicians in other jurisdictions, he surprised many Ontarians by being demure.

That positive image has taken a beating of late, however.

That’s in part because many of us are simply fed up with the pandemic, the restrictions and what has become endless droning from all concerned: politicians, bureaucrats and health officials alike. We want solutions, not more limitations, and certainly not more excuses for why we’re getting more limitations and not solutions.

That might not be fair, but that’s human nature. And it’s clear there will be plenty of finger-pointing and recriminations once the crisis has passed and we see the fallout – and the bill – from the effort to curb the spread of the virus.

That said, Ford hasn’t been helping himself lately by talking tougher and threatening to sic the police on a public increasingly frustrated by lockdowns and small business owners increasingly on the edge of losing what they’ve built for what at times looks like little in the way of benefit.

Yes, the number of COVID-19 cases is growing. Yes, there are new, more virulent variants with which to contend. Yes, there is more stress on hospitals. But, warranted or not, the public perception is that the virus is not as scary as was first believed – that’s largely a matter of becoming acclimatized to the stress of the situation, but it’s in that environment politicians such as Ford must act.

Of course, it’s not usually wise to govern by choosing popular moves over scientific evidence. As we’ve seen in the U.S., state governors’ decision to end mask mandates, social distancing and other public health measures on ideological grounds mean nothing to the virus: it went on spreading, regardless.

Good governance, then, means walking a fine line between putting useful restrictions in place – bringing the public on board from the start – and doing something simply to appear to be doing something. Right now, the public perception is leaning towards the latter, meaning Ford doesn’t have all the people on board.

The opposition’s call for Ford’s resignation is simple politicking, but it is indicative that sentiment has moved away from the earlier impression of the Premier’s effectiveness.

Just now, Ford has to demonstrate clearly that the rules he’s put in place are absolutely required, making a meaningful impact – i.e. saving hundreds, if not thousands of lives – that significantly outweigh the damage being caused.

Not the inconvenience, though that is a consideration for any official looking to stay on in that capacity, but the economic, emotional and psychological damages that have most certainly accompanied the pandemic and the official response thereto.

That’s a tall order.

But when the backlash results in public protests even in this region, something has to be done to restore public trust.

The number-one solution is vaccinating everyone. The rollout has not been smooth, though that’s not all on Ford. He and his fellow premiers are undoubtedly encouraging Ottawa to increase supply, at which point the bulk of provincial resources should be focused on the logistics of getting shots into arms.

Get that done in short order, and the government’s woes should disappear. Right now, however, that doesn’t look likely. Told to be patient, Ontarians may see a late-summer target as a bridge too far, despite that fact we’ve been dealing with this crisis for more than a year already.

ANALYSIS ON CURRENT WORLD EVENTS

Bolsonaro commits political suicide by COVID

R

ounding into the home stretch, it’s Italy by a full length, then the United Kingdom, with the United States and Brazil neck and neck....

No, wait. Brazil is making its move. It’s coming up on the outside...’

Is it disrespectful to portray the performance of the leading COVID-stricken countries as a horse-race in which the winner will be the major country with the worst deathrate per million citizens? If so, I apologize, but it certainly looks like that.

Italy led at first, was subsequently overtaken by practically everybody else, and then did a last-quarter sprint that put it back out in front again. But Brazil, the dark horse, overtook the United States yesterday (Brazil 1,758 deaths per million, U.S. 1,750 per million), and it may catch up with the UK next week.

After that only Italy stands in the way of Brazil winning the COVID Booby Prize.

I’m not deliberately neglecting the achievements of the small countries of south-eastern Europe (Bosnia, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Slovakia and Slovenia)

GWYNNE DYER

Global Outlook on World Affairs

that occupy eight of the ten top places on the death-rate list. They’re just small, and nobody had particularly high expectations for them.

Nor am I playing this ranking game just to point out that the worst-performing of the major countries all had populists in change, at least until recently (Donald Trump in the U.S., Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil, Boris Johnson in the UK), except Italy, which had practically no government at all. I’m doing it because Brazil looks like it will win the Booby Prize.

The pandemic is probably going to end the political career of Jair Bolsonaro, Brazil’s egregious president.

In fact, his equally unpleasant son Eduardo is already dreaming of a last stand in the Trumpian style. He recently criticized the would-be heroes who stormed the Capitol in Washington on January 6 for being timid and incompetent.

“If they had been organized,” said Eduardo Bolsonaro (who heads the Foreign

Affairs Committee in Brazil’s House of Deputies), “they would have taken the Capitol and...killed all the police inside or the congressmen they all hate.” And Eduardo’s father, the president, Jair has gone full Donald, trying to justify a coup in advance by insisting that next year’s election will be rigged against him.

Like Trump, however, Bolsonaro cannot really rely on the support of his nation’s senior military officers to save his bacon if he loses the election. He has just replaced all of Brazil’s military heads of service with generals who he thinks are more loyal, but the genuinely fascist officers who might actually back him in a coup are almost all of much lower rank.

If Bolsonaro has to depend on winning the popular vote next year, however, his chances of a second term are shrinking by the day. The latest opinion poll (mid-April) finds 55 per cent of the voters see his presidency as ‘terrible’, while only 26 per cent think it is ‘good’ or ‘excellent.’ What has undone Bolsonaro, just like his hero Trump, is COVID19. The pandemic is so bad →DYER 10

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

OPINION | 9

Elmira patio is a short-term solution, plenty of issues for long-term

I

n approving the closure of a portion of Elmira’s Mill Street again this summer, Woolwich councillors touched on some of the key points, including a balance between helping some businesses while inconveniencing others and the need to improve the aesthetics this time around.

From the lane closure on Arthur Street to the unkempt portion of the fenced off area, the patio erected last summer was downright ugly, as councillors duly noted last week.

What they skipped, however, was some measure of perspective in assessing how the patio fits into the downtown landscape. Leaving aside the issue of the inconvenience to motorists and some of the nearby businesses, the big-picture complaint is “why bother?”

Certainly the location is horrible. It perhaps works on a temporary basis for the neighbouring restaurant, but that’s about it.

Immediately adjacent to a busy regional road that sees plenty of traffic, the Mill Street intersection is never going to be a good place for a patio. Well, at least until there’s a bypass route that removes 90 per cent of the traffic from Arthur Street. And there’s some significant improvements in the core, from the architecture to the mix of offerings downtown.

Any mention of the likes of Elora or even St. Jacobs in conjunction to Elmira, as was the case at last week’s council meeting, is misguided at best. There simply is no comparison, in large part due to the main artery running right through Elmira’s core.

Such comparisons evoke previous efforts to imagine Elmira as a tourist destination when study after

STEVE KANNON Editor's Point of View

study showed the town is a service centre for the surrounding area.

Elmira’s traffic, layout and less-than-ideal architecture combine to ensure it’s not a destination location.

A number of studies have mapped out some ideal changes, but the township isn’t in the business of acquiring real estate or helping to launch new ventures, unlike some larger municipalities (often with mixed or poor results).

Ideally, there would be the development of a cohesive vision for the core, a strategy to provide what the public wants in order to attract people downtown. That could include longer hours and marketing expertise to

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dominates municipal planning schemes just about everywhere. Under pressure today from big-box retail, much as they were from the malls in previous generations, downtowns are having to cope with change. That doesn’t always sit well with core retailers.

Attractive, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, including trees, green spaces, flowers, benches and trails and amenities such as restaurants are what residents want from their downtowns. Studies have highlighted those demands. While council can create an appropriate environment, it’s up to property owners to make the changes demanded by the public.

The township and BIA have plans for some changes, particularly under a new community improvement plan (CIP), which introduces a host of

new financial incentives designed to open up a raft of new funding for businesses in the core looking to make material improvements to their buildings.

Potentially hundreds or thousands of dollars will be on offer for Elmira’s downtown businesses interested in renovating and upgrading their storefronts, either through grants or loans for work such as façade improvements, sign replacements and public art installations.

More than just an exercise, the CIP is a legal requirement that gives the township real power to provide grants and loans to businesses in Elmira.

The CIP allows the BIA to reinvest that money back into member businesses to improve the community.

It’s a worthy initiative, but we’ll have to see what comes of it. As it stands, it makes little sense for an

That it's Earth Day obviously means different things to different people.

Founded in 1996.

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make stores more in line with the expectations of today’s customers. In the bigger picture, that would mean attracting the kinds of businesses that bring people in and entice them to linger, such as outdoor cafés to play up the downtown’s advantages in the better weather.

The township and its BIA have recognized an opportunity presented by a growing Elmira. Many of the new homes – current and future – are within walking distance of the core; the goal now is to give them a reason to walk, and stop, downtown.

Over the years, Woolwich has completed a few core review for Elmira, and has undertaken zoning changes to tweak the development options downtown. Much of the emphasis, not surprisingly, has been on the retail portion of downtown business. Such thinking

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individual property owner to act alone, as it will take a coordinated effort to make any substantive change to the look of the downtown core. That’s a project that will include major overhauls of some not particularly attractive buildings, and a move away from a simple strip along Arthur Street, even if a bypass route is built in any useful timeframe. The township has taken steps to in theory extend the core to the likes of Memorial Avenue, but there’s been little rush to capitalize on that concept.

There have been a few apartment buildings constructed near the core – and plans for more – bringing more people within walking distance of downtown. Thus far, that prompted much in the way of change. In making a case for such projects, developers talk about the need for forms of housing aside from single-family homes, particularly in relation to seniors looking to downsize but stay in Elmira. That’s in keeping with the focus on walkable communities and mixed-use and compact neighbourhoods, though we’ve heard far more talk of this in the region, the province and the country than we’ve actually seen delivered.

Clearly, the more utopian arguments come from those who’ve visited Europe, where densities are higher and people live within an easy walk or bike ride of most of the amenities of daily living.

Because most communities developed before the advent of the automobile, they’re very much people-centric as opposed to the car-centered towns and cities of North America. No one development or even a few is not going to change that. →KANNON 10

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

10 | O P I N I O N

Training the perfect puddle dog is often perfectly easy

O

ne of the classic books on training hunting dogs that I grew up with was a book called “Water Dog” by Richard A. Wolters. First published in 1964, it is still recognized as one of the great books on teaching your dog to do water retrieves. The book was so good that the problem now is finding an original copy that isn’t soaking wet.

Having said that, I have always felt that there was a key step missing between the idea of taking your retriever from dry land out into big water.

And that is why I have spent most of this spring with my English Springer

STEVE GALEA

Not-So-Great Outdoorsman

Spaniel Rosie, addressing the missing step in all this – the puddle.

To be completely honest, the idea of having a dog spend an inordinate amount of time charging through and laying down in muddy roadside and backwoods puddles would not have occurred to me. I am just not that bright.

Yet, this occurs to Rosie and most other dogs almost every time they go afield.

Rosie understands that she needs to take some

responsibility for her training. Also, she has realized from puppyhood, that you have to walk before you can run – and then you never need to walk again. So, she came up with the concept of the “Puddle Dog.” Or at least I assume that’s why she spends so much time in them.

The training aspect is actually quite simple. At first, all you need to do is take your dog through an area where she can run free off the lead.

Suddenly, without you even knowing that you have started the training session, your dog will zero in on the muddiest puddle

in the area and then decide to lay down, roll or submerge herself in it. If it has any kind of future as a puddle dog, she or he will probably do all three.

The command you use as a handler is, “No…..for the love of God! I said no!”

There will be times when the training goes totally off the rails and the dog accidentally listens to you. If you are having one of those days, don’t despair however.

There are a few training tricks that will almost guarantee that your dog will jump in. The easiest is make sure you don’t have a towel in the car. If your dog is truly stub-

born, have the interior cleaned the day before the training session or simply wear white clothing. Either of those is usually enough to get the most water-wary dog to do belly flops.

Once your dog gets good at finding the easy puddles, it’s time to challenge old Rover a bit by visiting places that have undergone severe droughts or areas where the slope or drainage makes finding a puddle nearly impossible.

My Rosie is such an advanced puddle dog that she now could find a puddle in the desert, and when she leaves one she

is often carrying enough water in her coat to start a new puddle, usually in the living room.

That’s why I now think she is ready to tackle the big water and pond exercises that are the next step towards becoming a full-fledged retriever.

She’s experienced every kind of puddle you could possibly a predominantly white-coated dog wants to visit – namely, the dirtiest, muddy ones.

It’s time to move onto bigger and better things – like a muddy marsh or swamp.

How else is a dog like Rosie going to make a splash in this world?

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Canadians need answers from Erin O’Toole To the Editor, Who is Erin O’Toole?

Good question.

We do know that he and his cronies are good at criticizing the policies and leaders of other parties, but do we know what O’Toole and his party stand for? It’s normal for a leader to have closely-held policy positions as a campaign approaches.

It’s less common for a party to hold a national convention months from a general election and have no idea what the party will propose on major issues.

Perhaps we thought that we would find out just how far right Erin O’Toole and the Conservatives were willing to go when

the Tories met for their policy convention. The well-organized social-conservative wing of the party snapped up delegate spots so rapidly that some party stalwarts didn’t get one.

This raises fears that the social conservatives will be mighty enough to get controversial policies passed, including erasing the party’s stated policy that a Conservative government will never regulate abortion. Delegates voted against a policy proposal that would have the party officially recognize “climate change is real.”

Yes, asking questions is a good thing, but finding answers is better.

Omar Samad KITCHENER

We need quick action to reduce emissions To the Editor, Climate scientists say the world needs to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 to avoid catastrophic global warming. In Canada, considering our historic emissions and wealth, experts say we should be aiming for 60 per cent. That would be daunting enough if we got serious about it today but, under Trudeau's watch, Canada’s emissions are still on the rise. What’s more, the Liberals have failed to deliver on key climate promises like a Just Transition Act to help oil and gas workers through the economic transformation ahead.

To fix this, we need a massive political shift.

DYER: Deaths due to lack of care will write his epitaph → FROM 8

in Brazil now that most hospitals are rationing care, turning away COVID-stricken people whose age or underlying conditions make them less likely to survive and saving scarce beds and oxygen for those with a better chance.

The death-rate has been truly shocking. Most days last week it was in the high three thousands per day, which is about a third of the world total in a country with only 2.5 per cent of the world’s people.

It’s especially horrifying in a middle-income country with a free national health service which, although it is underfunded, normally

provides reasonably good care. Only 11 per cent of the population have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and the latest forecast is for half a million deaths by July.

Even Bolsonaro sometimes wears a mask now, although he continues to take legal action against states that impose stronger anti-pandemic measures like stay-at-home orders.

He is a prisoner of his own ideology, even when it is clearly hurting his popular support. And to make matters worse for him, ‘Lula’ is out of jail and free to run against him next year.

Brazil was never more prosperous, especially for the less privileged

half of the population, than during Luiz Inacio ‘Lula’ da Silva’s two terms as president in 20032011. He then withdrew because of the two-consecutive-term limit, but he would have been free to run against Bolsonaro in 2018 – and he would have won – if he had not been in jail by then.

The judge who sent him to jail later became a member of Bolsonaro’s cabinet, but the Supreme Court has now annulled Lula’s corruption convictions and he’s free to run for president in 2022.

Nobody knows how many Brazilians will have died needlessly by then, but probably enough to write Bolsonaro’s political epitaph.

That’s why I was thrilled to see a grassroots campaign calling on the Green Party and the NDP to form a Climate Emergency Alliance. Thousands of people have signed the petition in support of this historic partnership. With a snap election on the horizon, and the climate clock ticking, it’s time for Canada’s most progressive parties to set aside their differences.

If the NDP and the Greens stop competing, and run on a joint climate plan that puts the Liberals’ half measures to shame, they can elect a wave of climate champions to Parliament.

It’s not going to be easy, but this is exactly the kind of boldness this moment demands. If readers want to get involved, they can learn more at climatealliance.ca.

Shannon Purves-Smith ELMIRA

KANNON: Core needs more than a makeshift patio → FROM 9

This is not Europe, where people actually do walk and cycle as a means of transportation, not just recreation. Public transit is convenient and well used.

In short, the antithesis of how we do things here.

Living there, you can quite easily do without a car.

That’s not true anywhere in the region, let alone in Woolwich.

Leaving aside the inconceivable, the kinds of outdoor spaces and town squares ubiquitous in Europe would be delightful, but that takes more than some traffic cones and makeshift fencing.

What we need is a more responsive health care system To the Editor, Your recent article “UW study says pharmacists could save feds $42 million” is troubling. The piece says prescriptions for minor ailments such as upper respiratory infections, contact dermatitis (skin rash) and conjunctivitis (pink eye) could be more conveniently and cost effectively handled by a pharmacist, without a physical exam.

I am a physician and have been practicing family and emergency medicine in Waterloo Region for 30 years.

Let’s be clear about these ailments. None of them require any medication stronger than what you can currently buy off the shelf. The vast majority of upper respiratory infections are viral sinusitis, otitis media (middle ear infection) or acute bronchitis. Conjunctivitis is also almost always a self-limited, albeit irritating, viral condition.

Prescribing antibiotics for any of these conditions will only add to cost, drug reactions and the expansion of the already serious problem of antibiotic resistance. Nearly 25 per cent of bacterial infections in Canada are now resistant to the antibiotics that used to work. New antibiotics are not being developed quickly enough.

Should a patient with one of these conditions fail to improve after a few days, they then require an exam from a properly trained and licensed physician. Perhaps the

“upper respiratory infection” is in fact an asthma flare, fibrosis of the lung, congestive heart failure or a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung). What appears to be pink eye may be a vision threatening infection on the cornea or inflammation in the front of the eye requiring the care of an eye specialist. Huddling in the corner with a pharmacist, who is neither trained nor qualified in diagnosis and treatment (that’s what med school is for) will lead to over-treatment early on, and missed serious conditions later on in the course of many illnesses. The bottom line is that care will not be improved with this plan, but will in fact be made worse through over prescribing and incorrect diagnosis.

I am not without sympathy for the difficulty many patients have accessing their family physician, if they are lucky enough to have one. Our provincial government has mismanaged health care for so long, despite pouring increasing dollars into the system.

That has led to this sorry state of affairs. Government wastes enough health care dollars already. This plan will certainly add to drug costs. It is inconceivable to believe most pharmacists won’t recommend a more expensive prescription in most cases.

Rather than expand our system to allow unqualified pharmacists to “treat” so called minor conditions, what we need is a stronger push from the public demanding a health care system that is both affordable and responsive to our needs.

David Larke, MD

CONESTOGO

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 11

Business

Leading the way.

Shining a light on local enterprise, stoking the economic engines.

Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com New Business: observerxtra.com/enterprise

Housing by the numbers

We're staying put

There were 273,664 housing starts in March, up from 252,636 units in February, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Urban starts increased by 24.4% in March to 300,973 units. Multiple urban starts increased by 33.8% to 222,358 units in March while single-detached urban starts increased by 3.6% to 78,615 units.

A new CIBC survey finds that most homeowners say the pandemic has not changed their intentions of staying put, with many choosing to use their accumulated savings to renovate their current property rather than list it. With only 6% of homeowners polled saying they planned to sell pre-pandemic, 77% say the pandemic has not impacted their housing plans.

Only the best for man's best friend Alma boy's REL Dog Treats venture takes off after receiving strong response from initial offering Sean Heeger Observer Staff

Emmett Henderson, with help from his brothers, Rowan and Lincoln, and mom Melissa, has launched REL Dog Treats. The response has been so good, they're already looking at expanding. Sean Heeger

MAKING THE HEALTHIEST DOG TREATS with only natural ingredients is the focus of one young boy and his family after launching REL (pronounced Real) Dog Treats.

What initially started as a way for six-year-old Emmett Henderson to make some money to buy a dirt bike has turned into an already growing business that he runs with his mom Melissa and two younger brothers, Lincoln and Rowan.

REL – named by Emmett using the first initial of each brother’s name – was officially open for business when Emmett’s mother posted the treats for sale on Facebook about two weeks ago. Melissa Henderson says she expected orders for maybe 15 to 20 bags when she first posted. Instead, there was a wave of excitement, with the family fulfilling orders for 373 bags as of last week.

“He wanted to get a dirt bike, and I asked him, ‘well, how could we make money for you to buy your own dirt bike?’ He was brainstorming some ideas of what he could sell to come

up with some money,” said Henderson of Emmett’s reason for starting REL. “We’re just trying to fill the initial orders right now as we have over 373 orders for bags.

“We live in Alma and I grew up in Elmira, so I thought we’d get a few people like my friends that are still living Elmira. [Just the] local family friends that have dogs and some cousins and uncles and aunts. But when I posted it, I was overwhelmed with the amount of orders in the first day – we received about 350 bag orders.”

Made and packaged at home

by Emmett, his brothers and their mom, the recipe for the peanut butter-flavoured cookies consists of only the best ingredients, creating a healthy treat, said Henderson, pointing to the all-natural peanut butter, ripe bananas and oats. She says eventually, she would like to look into using flax seed and whole wheat flour.

Currently REL only offers peanut butter treats that come in packs of 25 for $5. This, however, will not be the case as of May 1, when they will switch to packaging by weight, with bags of 250 →DOGGY TREATS 12

Federal budget aims to make farmers greener than ever OWEN ROBERTS Food For Thought

environment targeting agriculture, and Canada being a major exporting nation, this support is critical for Canadian farmers to be able to answer the

bell.

Farmers are openly recognizing the federal assistance. For example, the Grain Farmers of Ontario issued some unusually upbeat praise for Ottawa once the budget was released, in what might be a bit of reconciliation.

“Budget 2021 recognizes that many farmers rely on natural gas and propane in their operations and that there are no ready substitutes,” says current Grain Farmers of Ontario chair Brendan Byrne. “We have been calling on the Government of Canada to exempt fuels used for

grain drying from the pollution pricing system and are pleased… to see that Prime Minister Trudeau, Finance Minister Freeland, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Bibeau have done the right thing.”

Last summer, with the pandemic having taken

hold, this group attacked Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in particular for what it said was a lack of action to safeguard Canada’s food supply.

“Almost two-thirds of grain farmers in Ontario are worried they cannot survive this downturn, → ROBERTS 12

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On Monday, the 2021 budget directed millions of dollars to farmers to help them be greener than ever. With the increasingly global emphasis on the

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

12 | B U S I N E S S

ROBERTS: Farmers have plenty to be happy about in new federal budget → FROM 11

REL Dog Treats takes it's name from the first initial of Emmett Henderson and his brothers Rowan and Lincoln.

Sean Heeger

DOG TREATS: Just weeks in, changes are already in the works → FROM 11

or 500 grams.

Looking towards the future of the business, Henderson says she sees the possibility of expanding it into a full-time venture, one that might allow her to stay home with the boys.

“I am actually a fulltime paramedic – I am just on leave right now.

So, if this business grows

to what it has started off, it looks like I could stay at home with my children and run a business and have my own hours.

Although I love doing [the work of] paramedics – I would probably still work part time as a paramedic – but my full-time job could be trying to run this business. And I’ve had some family members say that they would, if it

grows really great, that they would quit their job and help us,” she said.

She also says there is opportunity to get their treats in local pet stores in Elmira and Alma.

For Emmett, he hopes to be able to turn the business into something really successful so he can buy things for his brothers. Henderson says he is already crafting up

new treat flavour ideas and without giving too much away, she says the next ones “won’t involve peanut butter.”

To purchase a bag of treats, Henderson and the boys of REL can be contacted through email at reldogtreats@hotmail. com, through facebook. com/RELDOGTREATS, or by phone 519-588-7983 (call or text).

and Justin Trudeau doesn’t seem to care,” said the organization’s thenchair Markus Haerle at the time.

Grain prices rose, taking some of the heat off farmers. But in Ontario and elsewhere, farmers thought they were being treated unfairly over the federal carbon tax. In particular, they didn’t like the fact that they had to pay the tax on natural gas used to dry their grain.

Grain that contains too much moisture in it when it’s harvested has to be dried, or its quality plummets. Typically, it’s dried by farmers on their farms, using machines powered by natural gas or propane.

Drying grain is subject to the federal carbon tax aimed at reducing greenhouse gas.

But in the budget, beginning in 2021-22, farmers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario will receive carbon tax rebates equal to about $100 million.

Returns in future years are expected to increase.

The budget also proposes $50 million for the purchase of more efficient grain dryers for farmers across Canada.

So, that’s one hurdle cleared. But as Byrne says, there’s more work ahead.

For example, looking into the future, where are other energy efficiencies for farmers? Byrne says his organization is committed to working with the

government to develop practical alternatives to current grain-drying practices. That’s a good start.

And it could well depend on working with universities or private firms that have strong agricultural or environmental engineering capacities, which could be a significant growth area for institutions nimble enough to act on it.

Some have been waiting to see if and how Ottawa would respond to the global environmental imperative, before making big investments. Now, the indication is there. It looks like Canadian farmers won’t be left behind.

Environmentally, farmers here – or anywhere in the world, for that matter – aren’t starting from Ground Zero. As Byrne points out, modern agriculture plays a key role in helping Canada to achieve its climate commitments.

“Ontario grain farmers are consistently looking for ways to better their environmental impact, including reduced tillage, cover cropping and crop rotation,” he says. “Over the last 30 years, grain farmers in Ontario have taken important steps to substantially reduce their climate impact, increase land use efficiency and reduce energy use.”

With federal help and the agri-food sector’s ingenuity, the continual push towards increased sustainability on Canadian farms will continue.

Betty Thompson Golf Classic a go this year, moves to Merry-Hill Sean Heeger Observer Staff

GOLF IS CURRENTLY OFF THE table during the latest lockdown in Ontario, but organizers of the 29th annual Betty Thompson Golf Classic – Golfing for Women’s Health event hope to have the all-clear ahead of the May 27 outing.

Golfing proved to a be popular pastime last year as the pandemic set in, allowing people to get outdoors. The current prohibition is expected to be short-lived, which is good news for the Zonta Club of Kitchener-Waterloo. The group hosts the longest running all-female golf tournament in support of women’s health, which is set to return after taking 2020 off because of the pandemic.

Because of COVID-19, the club has moved the event to Merry-Hill Golf Club in Breslau.

Valerie Meyer, co-chair of the Betty Thompson Golf Committee, says there are also changes to the event from years prior in order to facilitate safety protocols and social distancing.

“We had to cancel it (last year’s event) like six weeks before because of COVID19. And by that time, we had already received a lot of sponsorship money from different businesses, so we went back to them and we asked them if they would like the money to come back to them, or would they like us to still continue to do what we were doing. One hundred per cent of the money that we raise goes towards women’s health programs

in Waterloo Region, so it all stays here, and they all agreed to let us keep the money and do what we wanted to do. So, we raised over $23,000 last year,” said Meyer of the club’s reason for continuing the event this year.

“Even though golf courses are closed right now, we’re pretty confident they’re going to open up again on May 20, because all the epidemiologists and the scientists don’t believe that they should be closed because it is a very safe, outdoor activity. So, our event will be held May 27.

“We had to cancel it last year, and up until that time we always had your typical tournament event which was 18 holes of golf, a shotgun start, sit-down dinner and a silent auction.

You can’t do that anymore,

Val Meyer, co-chair of the Zonta Club’s Betty Thompson Golf Committee, is cautiously optimistic as she looks ahead to the Sean Heeger 29th annual tournament set for May 27.

so now it’s a new look and new format. We’ve moved over to Merry-Hill Golf Course, and now it’s nine holes of golf with set tee

times… for the morning and the afternoon. So, that includes for nine holes of golf, a cart and they get to take away a box lunch for

$85,” Meyer added.

Started first to honour, then memorialize, Betty Thompson – a longtime local broadcaster and founding member of Zonta KW who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1990 – The event has raised more than $1 million to date and the club already has their sights set on doubling that amount. The group hopes to raise around $35,000 from this event.

Meyer says the group has limited the number of registrants allowed to take part to 100. As of right now, there are just about 20 spots left to register for the event.

Donations can also be made to the event for those who do not wish to golf.

To register for the event, or make a donation, visit zontakw.org.

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

B U S I N E S S | 13

Home is not safe for everyone Your turn is coming soon.

Domestic violence has risen 30% across Canada since the beginning of the pandemic

For support from Woolwich Community Services please call: 519-669-5139 or visit our website at https://www.woolwichcommunityservices.org/

For support from Women's Crisis Services of Waterloo Region please call: 519-742-5894, 519-653-2422 or talk to us anonymously online at wcswr.org

Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine plan is helping to stop the spread and save lives.

Thousands of people across the province are getting vaccinated every day.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 14

Rural Connections

A harvest of local farming innovation.

Connect to the land.

Phone: 519-669-5790 ext 103 Tips: observerxtra.com/tips

Poultry and egg funds

Fertilizer Canada CEO

The Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food announced details of two new programs designed to help Canada’s 4,800 chicken, turkey and egg farmers. The programs, totaling $691 million over 10 years, respond to requests from producer associations and provide compensation for market impacts from the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

Fertilizer Canada has announced the appointment of Karen Proud as president and CEO. Prior to joining Fertilizer Canada, Proud was the chief operating officer of Food Health and Consumer Products of Canada, a newly created association formed between Consumer Health Products Canada, where she had been president for seven years, and Food and Consumer Products of Canada.

Do Canada’s grocers need a code of conduct?

While food prices continue to climb in Canada, grocers’ fees, in addition to low margins, haven’t helped manufacturers benefit

M

any Canadians are oblivious to the fact that in the food industry, suppliers need to pay grocers to conduct business. Fees were justified by merchandising costs and shelf space – things anyone would expect.

But in recent years, things changed. Companies like Loblaws, Walmart and Metro used infrastructure and capital projects to justify new fees. Fees have been imposed quickly and unilaterally. Walmart’s latest $500-million distribution centre project is partially financed by suppliers.

Grocers have been charging fees by mainly dictating how business should be conducted in food distribution. It’s their way or the highway, plain and simple. As grocers requested, suppliers and food manufacturers complied.

It was the same in the

United Kingdom and in Australia, where oligopolistic powers in the grocery space prevailed – until a code of practice was implemented.

It seems Canada is now joining that club.

A draft code of practice exists now in Canada between food manufacturers and grocers – well, one grocer. Our country’s number two grocer, Sobeys (which recently acquired two key independent grocers in Longo’s and Farm Boy), felt it was time for a change. Number one and three grocers Loblaws and Metro, respectively, have always stated a code wasn’t necessary in Canada and it’s highly doubtful they will join.

Agriculture ministers across the country recently agreed to create a working group to study this important issue.

But instead of waiting

Suppliers have been feeling the squeeze over fees for shelf space and capital projects.

→ GROCERS 15

Canadian hazelnut producers hoping to join the mix W hile much of Canada’s food and beverage industry has been hit by disruptions caused by the pandemic, the country’s chocolate processors and hazelnut producers hope to benefit from a combination of consumer indulgence and a growing “buy local” trend.

“Chocolate and hazel-

nuts are two delicious things that go very well together,” says Erica Gilmour, owner and bar smith at Hummingbird Chocolate, in Almonte, Ont., conceding Italy has perfected the combination of the two ingredients with its world-famous Nutella spread.

“We are one of the few ‘bean to bar’ chocolate

makers in Canada, which means we don’t purchase chocolate that is already made – we import our own cacao beans and make it all from scratch. If we could add Canadian nuts to our product recipes, that would make a lot of business sense for us.”

The pandemic has opened the door for Canadian chocolate makers

with new consumer demand for local, convenient, healthy and sustainable foods. Dark chocolate and hazelnuts are part of this select list of powerful foods that consumers are considering for their benefits in reducing the risk of heart disease and as antioxidant-rich foods.

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hazelnuts in 2020, mainly from Turkey, showing a 25 per cent increase from the previous year. The value of hazelnut imports was $105.8 million in 2020.

Several visionary producers in Ontario have started planting hazelnut orchards. Kevin Hodge is one of them. Hodge is a cash crop producer in Burford, Ont., and he

chose hazelnuts to diversify his production.

“I started my hazelnut orchard in 2018, so it will start being profitable in about 10 years,” says Hodge. “I should be retired by then, but I have four children and they all like Nutella. I hope one will take over the hazelnut production and make → HAZELNUTS 16

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R U R A L C O N N E C T I O N S | 15

Make this year’s planting season safe and productive

A

s the days start to get warmer, farm equipment across the province will begin hitting the roadways for planting season.

Many farmers spend a lot of time on the road throughout the spring, travelling long distances between fields and back to their farms. Similar to the farm, there are several best practices and protocols to follow to ensure the safety of all vehicles on the road, and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) reminds everyone to remember the rules of the road and take the time to put safety first.

Farm and road safety has always been a top priority for OFA. Following proper road safety procedures helps to ensure farmers, as well as motorists, stay safe.

To farmers, travelling on the road with large equipment is part of doing business and a necessary day-to-day task of spring planting. As we begin to move our farm equipment out of the barn and onto the road, it may be time to pause, talk to everyone on your farm team and consider the many steps we can take to ensure our

roadways remain safe.

Some roads, bridges and traffic circles aren’t built to accommodate heavy machinery and a lot more motorists are increasingly impatient around slow-moving vehicles. It is our job as the drivers of our farm equipment to ensure we are doing everything we can to ensure safe travel.

It is important to always ensure that your farm tractors, combines or other self-propelled implements have a visible slow-moving vehicle (SMV) sign on the back of your equipment. It is also important to use lights, taillights and signals to make your equipment visible to all motorists.

While you are required to use lights on equipment from 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise – why not keep them on all the time, then you’ll always be visible.

Turns have the potential to pose many safety risks if you are not properly using your signals.

When slowing down and making your turn, it is vital to indicate this movement to the motorist → OFA 16

GROCERS: Rising prices don't always make it to manufacturers, producers → FROM 14

for a report to be presented sometime in July, Food, Health and Consumer Products Canada and Empire/Sobeys opted to go ahead and set a standard for the industry by presenting a new code of practice. The code includes five guiding principles that essentially get all parties to commit and act in good faith as they conduct regular business.

No more unilateral decisions, no more last-minute ploys; just straight, honest business.

Current market conditions have made it more challenging for food processors in Canada.

Food manufacturing contributed $26.5 billion to the Canadian gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020. In the U.S., it was $766 billion in 2020 – a full 29 times larger.

As it is in the U.S., a strong food processing sector can serve as a strategic anchor for the entire industry. The supply chain isn’t as vulnerable to macroeconomic shifts and can allow the industry to better support our farmers.

The mad cow crisis and our latest spat with China are good examples.

Despite the last decade seeing few new food plants open in Canada while several closed, food manufacturing was the second largest manufacturing

How the shelves get stocked would be part of a code of conduct for Canada's grocers.

sector in the country after transportation equipment in 2020.

Despite the financial heartaches, food manufacturing also still managed to grow its GDP contribution from 13.18 per cent in 2010 to 13.47 per cent in 2020.

But the sector can do much better.

While food prices continue to climb in Canada, grocers’ fees, in addition to low margins, haven’t helped manufacturers benefit from these rising prices. In most cases, farmers also didn’t benefit.

Some speculate that food prices may rise due to a code of practice that forces grocers to charge more to protect margins.

But the United Kingdom has had a code since 2009 and food inflation there has generally been lower than in Canada over the last decade.

This code of practice is meant to change the culture of an industry in

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which vertical co-ordination and collaboration barely exist. It’s also very much about dealing with a broken supply-side economic model few people in Canada can appreciate.

The code of practice is obviously an unproven concept in Canada and few know if it’s going to work without other major grocers participating.

However, the current situation was no longer viable.

Strong supply chain collaboration could lead to more innovation and growth. When forced to work on issues, parties will need to share data and insights. As such, market gaps can be recognized more easily as developing and commercializing novel food products is more likely. The code of practice can create opportunities if the group remains disciplined and committed, since the code isn’t legally binding.

Independent grocers, on the other hand, will likely get some welcomed help with the code of practice.

Unlike major chains, they couldn’t really impose anything on suppliers. The relationship Sobeys has now with suppliers can be used as a useful benchmark.

Only time will tell us if the code of practice works.

But it’s a valiant effort.

The concept is no longer just academic. Instead of letting politics dictate the industry’s good faith, suppliers and Sobeys are giving themselves some hope that, perhaps, things can be different.

Going ahead with a code of practice without everyone involved also implies that its creation would never have happened with Loblaws and Metro participating. ↆ Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

16 | R U R A L C O N N E C T I O N S

HAZELNUTS: Ontario producers see an opportunity in this crop → FROM 14

Spring means there will be more farm vehicles on the road, Stock photo making safety issues a priority, says OFA.

OFA: Farmers encouraged to take the time to put safety first out on the road → FROM 15

behind you to prevent collisions or confusion. I tell my employees to be extra cautious during lefthand turns. In my experience, I have seen many motorists try to pass farm equipment, not seeing that they’re preparing to make a left-hand turn.

Therefore, it is essential to always be cautious and use your indicators when turning on roadways. I often advise my employees to take the time to check twice when turning on and off busy roadways to remain safe.

Another aspect of safety is to always remain alert and aware of your surroundings. I always encourage my employees

to stay alert, regardless if there are other vehicles on the road. Attentive drivers are safe drivers.

OFA encourages all farmers to keep it hands-free and stay off smartphone devices while operating farm equipment. The road requires our full attention to ensure safe trips.

Although our equipment may look different, we are still required to follow the rules of the road.

On the road, it’s important to drive your equipment on the main part of the highway. It is not illegal to drive on the shoulder, but it can be dangerous as it may not support the weight of your equipment. When driving on back roads, there

may be cases where a sign indicating a soft shoulder is not present. By driving towards the middle of your lane, you ensure that your farm equipment remains safe and on the road.

OFA also encourages farmers to be mindful of their speed and stopping times. Many of us travel with heavy loads that have the capability to overpower our brakes. It is imperative to watch our stopping times and ensure that we are mindful of the distance between vehicles and steep grades. It’s also important to remember that all farm equipment on the road, plus trucks towing farm implements, must not exceed the 40

km/h speed limit.

Lastly, always complete your safety checks to confirm that your farm equipment is safe to drive on the road. Check that your brakes and lights are working correctly, and be sure that every piece of farm equipment travelling on roadways has a slow-moving vehicle sign that is visible to motorists.

Following these best practices and regulations will help make sure that everyone has a safe and productive planting season.

Remember to take the time to put safety first on the roadways, on your farm and for your family. ↆ Larry Davis is a director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.

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money out of it. One day we may see the mention “made with Canadian hazelnuts” on Ferrero or Nutella’s label. That is my dream.”

“I think the demand is there; we just have to figure out how to tap into it,” says Hodge. “Canadian farmers are famous for producing quality raw ingredients, but we tend to sell our commodities on the wholesale market and processing takes place outside of Canada.

It would be nice to be able to retail our end-products ourselves.”

Hodge is a member of the Ontario Hazelnut Association that wants to promote the brand “Hazelnuts Ontario.” The Association is working on the marketing plan right now. There is no established market for the moment simply because Canadian production is not there yet.

“I didn’t know until recently that we grow hazelnuts in Canada,” says Gilmour. “As a company that is always trying to find local ingredients, we would make quite an effort to source hazelnuts grown in Canada.”

According to the Farm Credit Canada (FCC) Food and Beverage Report published in March 2021, shifts in demand and increased production costs have challenged profitability for the sugar and confectionery industry, and 2021

should be sweeter with the re-opening of food service businesses. Consumers are also looking for indulgence foods after going through various lockdowns. FCC projects sales to increase in this sector by 12.3 per cent in 2021 (3.7 per cent above 2019).

Healthy eating is expected to continue in 2021, but indulgence is also a major trend. The combination of healthy and premium ingredients can introduce differentiation and offer interesting niche markets. Product development and marketing can be reassessed to support consumers’ balanced approach to eating.

According to a survey conducted by FCC in January 2021, when asked if their behaviour has changed since the start of the pandemic, six out of 10 people or 58 per cent said they are more likely to buy Canadian made or grown food, 56 per cent are more likely to look for Canadian made or grown food when they buy groceries and 50 per cent are more likely to think about how their food is grown.

“With the local food movement, I think consumers will be willing to pay a premium price for local hazelnuts simply because they’re Ontario grown and not imported.

At least it is my hope,” adds Hodge.

CNC Turning & Milling

NOW HIRING 1.800.556.9452

amiattachments.com

MACHINE & REPAIR INC.

RYAN WEBER 519.669.2198 126 Bonnie Crs., Elmira www.rytechmachine.ca

7668 8th Line Drayton | 519-638-3457 | www.cleanfieldsvc.ca CUSTOM SERVICE INC.

FEED THE FURROW FIRST

CALL TO BOOK YOUR STARTER FERTILIZER TODAY!

CUSTOM FARMING

RENTAL EQUIPMENT

• • • •

•

•

•

•

• • • 34’

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 17

Classifieds

Advertising

Placing a classified ad

Seven days.

One paper.

Please call or email for display advertising quote for Help Wanted, Auctions, Real Estate, Public Notices and Obituaries.

A bestseller every week.

Please talk to our ad dept for pricing and to order a Pro Services Directory.

All classified advertising is prepaid. Ads will be accepted in person, email, or phone during regular office hours. Deadline is Wednesdays by 10am. Order online at: observerxtra.com/classifieds.

Phone: 519-669-5790 ext 104 Email: ads@woolwichobserver.com Job Listings: jobs.observerxtra.com

Family Album Announcements pricing and info can be ordered online at: observerxtra.com/order-family-album.

Help Wanted

Residential:

$9 per 20 words (20¢ per extra word)

Commercial:

$15 per 20 words (30¢ per extra word)

Help Wanted

Serving, engaging and inspiring current

NOW HIRING FULL TIME

and future generations

ROOF TRUSS ASSEMBLERS Committed to fostering opportunities for current and future generations, the Region of Waterloo is an inclusive, thriving and sustainable region of connected rural and urban communities with global reach. Our mission is to serve, engage and inspire, by delivering quality services to a diverse population of 560,000+, while creating a healthy, collaborative environment of learning, respect and innovation. This is a place where employees are valued and recognized for their talents and contributions to our success.

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR (WASTE MANAGEMENT) Working 40 hours per week, and operating heavy equipment such as bulldozers, hydraulic excavators, roll-off trucks, water trucks, and front-end loaders, you’ll load and unload waste, recycling, and waste diversion materials at waste management sites, and maintain areas of the site. This role calls for knowledge of reading, writing and basic math skills and proficiency in the safe operation of heavy equipment, with a minimum of loader, bulldozer, compactor, roll-off truck and excavator, acquired through a Grade 12 education and 3 years’ experience in a similar environment, or equivalent, OR a Grade 10 education and 3 years’ directly related experience. You have knowledge of job-related policies, procedures and standard operating procedures, and provincial and federal legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the Environmental Protection Act, and the Highway Traffic Act, and can read and understand owners’ manuals, a GPS system for surveying, safety policies, instructions, and more. A valid Class DZ driver’s licence and a satisfactory driving record are required to operate Regional equipment. Hours of work are determined by shift selection, and could include weekends, evenings and statutory holidays.

Please visit our website for a detailed description of these positions (competition #2020-2119), and to apply online before 11:59 p.m., Tuesday, April 27, 2021.

Must be team oriented, ambi�ous & responsible No experience required Mar-Span offers compe��ve wages, produc�on bonuses and employee benefits.

Please apply with resume in person or email resume to marv@marspan.com We would like to thank all applicants, however only those selected for interview will be contacted.

7221 Side Rd. 16 Drayton, ON Help Wanted

We are committed to diversity and inclusion, and thank all applicants in advance; however, we will be corresponding only with those selected for an interview. We will accommodate the needs of qualified applicants under the Human Rights Code in all parts of the hiring process.

BOOKKEEPER

www.regionofwaterloo.ca

Help Wanted GENERAL LABORER FOR PRECAST PLANT, no experience needed, will train.

I n q u i re , L a h m a n Precast Concrete Inc. 519 699 4501 ex 2

Work Wanted TAX E-FILING - 15+ YEARS EXPERIENCE. Single return $50.

Couple return $80. Ph: 226-979-4790.

For Sale LAWN FERTILIZER AND LAWN SEED Call George Haffner Tr u c k i n g , 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045.

MATTRESS AND BOX SPRING, NEW, NEVER used, still in sealed bag. Sacrifice $195.

Delivery available $35.

519-635-8737.

T WO O U T D O O R LIGHTS TO FIT POSTS. Must be wired, never used. $50 for both. Call 519-884-5973.

As a growing Landscape Supply and Trucking company we are looking to add an additional bookkeeper to our team.

Help Wanted •••

IS NOW HIRING!

Welders - Immediate Openings Available Welder/Fabricator: Experienced fabricator to

produce carbon steel vacuum tanks and components in a custom production welding environment. Brake and shear experience viewed as an asset. Full-time career position.

Please send resumes to careers@vacutrux.com or call 519-669-1625 Vacutrux is an environmental truck manufacturer located in Elmira, Ontario. We are looking for welder fitters to join our production team. We are willing to train the right candidate with the right attitude. If you are mechanical and a team player with some experience in heavy equipment/truck/farm and are a team player, this might be the job for you. Thank you for applying. Full time career positions available with great benefits package and group RRSP plan. Starting wage depending on experience. Now hiring full-time day shift - 44 hr work week.

20 Martins LN | Elmira, ON | N3B 2A1

Help Wanted, Auctions and Word Ads Continue on the next Page

Floradale Feed Mill Limited is an independent, family owned and operated feed company serving livestock and poultry producers in Ontario.

We currently have an opening for:

Truck Driver (DZ)

This fulltime position will involve safe operation of a bag unit or bulk hopper bottom unit week days (Monday to Friday) and rotating Saturday’s.

The successful applicant will have • A valid commercial driver’s license • Strong oral and written communication skills • Ability to develop effective work relationships with co-workers, and • Ability to represent the Company positively with customers.

At Floradale Feed Mill Limited we take pride in providing the finest in quality feeds and service to our customers in the livestock and poultry industries. Therefore, a background in agriculture is considered an asset.

We offer a competitive wage, pension plan and group insurance benefits.

To apply, forward your resume, a copy of your driver’s abstract and three references to: Human Resources Floradale Feed Mill Limited 2131 Floradale Road, Floradale, ON N0B 1V0 Or e-mail: ffmjobs@ffmltd.com We appreciate all who apply but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Main Responsibilities • Performing day to day accounting activities including accounts payable (A/P), accounts receivable (A/R), payroll, general ledger, bank reconciliations and government reports and invoicing.

• Ensure quality control over financial transactions and financial reporting.

• Some management of phone calls and dealing with correspondence, complaints and queries • Oversee office equipment, supplies, etc • Dealing with correspondence, complaints, and queries • Ensure required company information is up-to-date in Avetta and Cognitive programs Qualifications • 1-2 years in full cycle accounting • Above-average accuracy and attention to detail and high ability to problem solve • Excellent time management and organizational skills • Solid working knowledge of GAAP, professional and high degree of confidentiality • Excellent interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills • Self-motivated, pro-active, ability to work independently and with others • Proficient with SAGE, Microsoft Word and Excel • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and complete repetitive tasks • Dependable and Reliable Interested applicants please submit resumes in person to 30 Dumart place Kitchener Or by email to information@rmadams.ca

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

18 | C L A S S I F I E D S

Farm Services

DZ / Dump Truck Driver

• • • •

As a growing Landscape Supply and Trucking Company, we are looking to add an additions to our team. Starting at $23.00 HR Main Responsibilities 8 – 10 hour shifts Monday to Friday (Daytime Only) Overtime is paid Local deliveries and pickups of product Keeping paperwork clean and in order Proper circle checks every morning Load Security

• • • •

Qualifications Valid DZ license with good driving record Able to communicate written and verbally Reliable and Dependable Ability to work in a team environment

•

APPROX 200T CORN SILAGE. ALSO 50 T HI moisture corn.

Ve r n Gingrich 519-465-8185 BAGGED PINE SHAVINGS AGRICULTURAL Spray Lime, 22.5kg. bag; feed grade lime, 25kg. Delivered. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045.

FERTILIZER AND SEED GRAIN - AT competitive pricing. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-574-4141.

KILN DRIED CORN & CORN SCREENING Delivered by Einwechter. Minimum 15 ton lots. Call George Haffner Trucking 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045.

Wanted USED ADULT TRICYCLE. BATTERY OR pedal power. Call Bill at 519-651-7170.

Rentals PROFESSIONAL COUPLE WITH GOOD income seeking 2+ or 3 bedroom home to rent for June 1. Must have main floor bathroom, prefer garage

space. Elmira preferred but will consider outlying areas within 30 minutes. We are happy to maintain yard and property as required.

Pet friendly required for canine visits -- we do not have pets of our own. Will also consider private sale properties if you have something interesting to offer!

No agents please.

Please call or text 226-979-2215 or 519-503-8086.

Rentals WANTED - A ONE BEDROOM OR BASEment apartment in Elmira. Call 519-669-8662.

Trades & Services LAWN ROLLING C U S TO M L AW N rolling, 37" wide, fits into most back yards. Call or text to book. Quinten 226-791-0921.

PERSONAL INCOME TAX PREPARATION and E-file. Please contact me, Amber McIntyre for confid e n t i a l p r o fe s -

sional service at reasonable rates.

Located in Elmira. Call 519-239-4816 cell, or home 519-669-8442.

RON'S DRYWALL AND RENOVATIONS. OVER 35 years experience. Please call 519-496-7539 or email ron.spncr@gmail.com

Help Wanted and word ads started on page 17

Help Wanted

HELP WANTED Lorentz Farms Ltd. Mill operator needed. Mechanically inclined, computer knowledge helpful, some equipment operation required.

Interested applicants please submit resumes by email to jason@rmadams.ca

Call 519-575-8441 or 519-577-2889

Help Wanted

Woodland Horizon is athat manufacturer Join a young, dynamicLtd team keeps growing! of high quality kitchen in Drayton.

Woodland Horizon Ltd cabinetry designs, manufacturers, We are looking to add a motivated and

solid wood stairs. Our shop and showroom are located professional individual to our in the town of Drayton. At Woodland, one of our core values is Respect. Respect for our team members and respect for our customers.

Woodland Horizon Ltd is a manufacturer of Join a young, dynamic team that keeps growing! high quality kitchen in Drayton.

Woodland Horizon Ltd cabinetry designs, manufacturers, We are looking to add a motivated and solid wood stairs. Our shop and showroom are located professional individual to our

in the town of Drayton. At Woodland, one of our core values is Respect. Respect for our team members and respect for our customers.

Kitchen Cabinet Sales & Design

We are looking for a full time, permanent

team.

The successful applicant will have Woodworking Machinist experience in sales, strong people skills, and Inpreferably this position, also you would be workingwith in theCabinet machining experience and breakout area of the shop.

You will be cutting anda Vision software. If you enjoy working in machining rough lumber to create trim, doors and other strong team environment and want the solid wood parts. In this position you would be reporting opportunity to grow along with the company, to our machining manager. Opportunities for promotion. then please submit your resumé to: Required skills laverne@woodlandhorizon.com or call • Respectful 519-638-5961 to set up an interview.

• Ability to read blueprints Only an interview will be contacted.

• those Fluentreceiving in Measurements Thank you for interest.

• Capable of lifting 50 to your 75 pounds • Motivated and enthusiastic • Courteous and friendly • Dependable • No post secondary education required • Previous wood working experience will be an asset Experience • Machinist: 1 year (preferred) • Woodworking: 1 year (preferred) after probationary period.

If you are interested in joining a vibrant and growing company, please send your resume to laverne@woodlandhorizon.com or call 519.638.5961 ext 104 Only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

Kitchen Cabinet Sales & Design

We are looking for a full time, permanent

Stair Programmer team.

TheCNC successful applicant will have experience in sales, strong people skills, and and Operator preferably also experience with Cabinet Vision software.

If be you enjoy working In this position you will responsible to operatein onea ofstrong our CNCteam routersenvironment that machines primarily solid wood and want the stair parts as well as cabinet doors.

The other part of opportunity to grow along with the company, yourthen responsibility will be to work in the CAM side of please submit your resumé to: StairCon software, to create CNC code and shop Data laverne@woodlandhorizon.com or call for production. To be successful in this position, you 519-638-5961 to set up an interview. will need a strong understanding of CNC machining, as wellthose as a strong computer and software knowledge and Only receiving an interview will be contacted. the desire to createyou systems to improve the StairCon Thank for your interest.

CAM software.

Required skills • Respectful • Ability to read blueprints • Attention to Detail • Capable of lifting 50 to 75 pounds • Motivated and enthusiastic • Courteous and friendly • Dependable • CNC Router Experience • CAM Software Experience • No post secondary education required • Previous wood working experience will be an asset • Stair building experience will be an asset Experience • CNC Programing: 2 years (preferred) • Woodworking: 2 years (preferred) • CNC Operator: 2 years (preferred) after probationary period.

If you are interested in joining a vibrant and growing company, please send your resume to laverne@woodlandhorizon.com or call 519.638.5961 ext 104 Only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

Sales/Customer Service and Dispatch Coordinator We currently have an opportunity for a Sales/Customer Service and Dispatch Coordinator to join our company. This position is a pivotal role and will require an individual with a high level of competence. This individual’s key responsibilities will be sales and procurement, order taking, customer service and coordination of orders and dispatch of deliveries.

About Us: We are an established family owned company, operating in the Waterloo area for over 45 years. We remanufacture and distribute wooden pallets throughout south western Ontario.

Email resume to

info@willowbraepallets.com

Auction

ONLINE AUCTION Held at 2827 Hutchison Rd, ½ mile north of Crosshill (on gravel road), 5 miles west of St. Clements

AUCTION BEGINSTO CLOSE THURSDAY, APRIL 29TH @ 6:00 P.M.

INCLUDING: Antiques, collectibles, new

giftware, beer tray including Kuntz “Bologna Girl”, pottery, textiles, folk art, primitives, good glass & china, Beswick cattle, furniture, new home & garden décor, etc. 665 lots.

FOR CATALOGUE, pictures and bidding see jacobauctions.hibid.com IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE BIDDING

call 519-348-9896

PROPRIETORS – Quilted Heirlooms of St. Jacobs Market and area collectors AUCTIONEERS:

Gerber Auctions Ltd. 519-699-4451 Jacob Auctions Ltd. 519-276-1575

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

C L A S S I F I E D S | 19

Auction

Kurtz Auctions Inc. FARM FOR SALE BY TENDER

TENDER CLOSING DATE: FRIDAY, APRIL 30, 2021 @ 5pm LOCATION: Cash Crop Farm for Sale located in Guelph/Eramosa Township

PREVIEW:

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

With total of 100 Acres Prime Agricultural Land, 85 Acres Workable, Systematically Tiled and a good bank barn with silo and steel grain bin This property is located outside of Guelph west end near Maryhill; 5512 Guelph/Eramosa Township Road 3, RR7, consists of a beautiful move in condition 2 story century stone house and attached carriage house Kurtz Auctions Inc. / Auctioneer:

Brian S Kurtz (519)836-0342 | Email: kurtzauctionsinc@gmail.com See www.kurtzauctionsinc.ca and https://facebook.com/ brian.kurtz3950 for photos and update on new items.

ↆ P U Z Z L E

S O LUT I ONS

Solutions for this week's puzzles.

ↆ E L M IRA

* 5 , 0 0 2 ' ( 7 2 2 7 ) / $ / + $ ' ' ) 5 ( ( 7 , 3 6 3 2 7 6 $ & 2 0 , 7 0 , 7 ( $ 6 $ 7 $ * 7 $ 5 ( $ . , 1 1 ( $ 7

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D ONOR

Even though the Woolwich Wildcats U9 LL team's season got cut short, the coaches took efforts to ensure the team members had fun, respecting the pandemic protocols all the while. Submitted

SHOP LOCAL. SAVE LOCAL CL INIC

22 Church St. W Elmira

519-669-5353

Breakfast • Coffee • Soups • Sandwiches • Donuts • Muffins • Bread • Pies • Cookies Hours: Mon to Sat 6am to 5:30pm | Closed Sundays & Holidays

your supplier of feeds and pet food

1.800.265.6126 |

The Next Elmira Clinic:

CLM

at Lion’s Hall, Elmira Friday, April 30 2:30 - 7:30 pm The Quality You Demand, the Service You Deserve.

MODULAR BUILDINGS MOVING & LEASING

Farm - Auto - Truck - Industrial and we have On-the-farm service

371 Arthur St. S. • 519-669-3232

DUB-L-E

Appointments are required to ensure physical distancing.

Book online at blood.ca or by calling 1-888-2-DONATE (1-888-236-6283)

ELECTRICAL WHOLESALE

2170 FLORADALE RD., FLORADALE • 519-669-2183

• GAS • DIESEL • PROPANE • TOUCH-FREE CAR WASH

Serving you for over 100 Years 1145 Printery Rd., St. Jacobs | TEL: 519.664.2263

• Fabrics • Men's Wear • Ladies Coats • China • Glass Ware

ELECTRIC MOTORS | GENERATORS | AUTOMATION CONTROL

Mon. Closed · Tues.-Fri. 8-6 · Sat. 8-5

63 Union St., Elmira • 519-669-1842

2192 Floradale Rd. ~ Floradale, On.

(519) 669-1381

390 ARTHUR ST. S., ELMIRA (Hwy 86 & Road 21)

519-669-2015

SANYO CANADIAN MACHINE WORKS INCORPORATED

33 Industrial Dr. • 519-669-1591

OPEN 8am to 9pm | 7 DAYS A WEEK DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE Call for Details

315 Arthur St. S., Elmira • 519-669-5403

Bus: 519-698-9930 Res: 519-698-2213

RR #2 Wallenstein, Ontario

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

20 | C L A S S I F I E D S

ↆ REA L

ES TATE

Sue From

Alli Bauman

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

226-750-9332

519-669-5426

suefrom17@gmail.com

CONESTOGA LAKE - ON THE WATER!!! What better summer to own your very own cottage! Extremely well cared for with everything you need to enjoy including boating, relaxing, lakefront views and gorgeous sunsets. The main floor has an ideal layout with a sprawling vaulted ceiling and an open concept design allowing space for a living room, eat up island, dining area, kitchen and a 4-pc bathroom off to the side. A few steps up you will find a bonus room great for reading, games or TV. A couple more steps up is 3 bedrooms and a 2 pc bathroom. The wrap around composite deck allows for multiple outdoor gathering spaces, including a covered area which offers spectacular views of the lake. All appliances, furniture, BBQ and riding lawnmower included, making this a move in ready cottage with quick possession, timing couldn't be better! Leased Land.

NEW LISTING

$550,000

$320,000

WATERLOO - Recently Renovated PENTHOUSE in Waterloo! This 19th floor corner unit boasts exceptional finishes, offers 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and panoramic views of the city. Prime Waterloo location close to all amenities, Schools, Shopping, Expressway, and Universities. Features California ceilings throughout and a Spectacular kitchen that is an entertainer's dream with beautiful counter tops and a large island for additional seating.

With all newer stainless steel kitchen appliances, this Penthouse is ready for you to move in and enjoy! All Inclusive Fee covers: Heat, Hydro, Utilities, Building Insurance, Central Air Conditioning, Common Elements, Exterior Maintenance, Parking, Storage Locker, and Private Garbage Removal. This Building has Fantastic Amenities on-Site: Indoor pool, sauna, games room, library, full woodworking shop, hobby room, exercise room with equipment and running track, billiards and Party room, indoor parking and a car wash!

3 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519-669-5426

ELMIRA - Filled with love and charm this 4 bedroom home is ready for you!!! Situated in the heart of Elmira and conveniently located close to the rec-centre, downtown, schools and a short 10-minute drive to Waterloo. You can cozy up in the main living space and adore the lovely updated décor. 2 bedrooms up and 2 bedrooms on the main floor which could alternatively be used as a home office or play room.

Some recent updates include newer windows in the basement and mudroom, flooring in the kitchen, exterior siding and new furnace in 2020. Eye catching curb appeal with landscaped yard and front walkway plus a private deck for entertaining. And to top it off, a detached garage! This one is too wonderful to overlook!

$599,900

SELLING? CALL US FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION.

BROKERAGE

R.W. THUR REAL ESTATE LTD.

Shanna Melanie

A portion of each sale commission is donated to The Woolwich Community Services.

Rozema

BROKER

Phone 519-747-2040 Cell 519-572-2528

HELPING YOU IS WHAT WE DO…

Beisel

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

519-590-0835 mbeisel@royallepage.ca

shannarozema@royallepage.ca

NEW LISTING!

Family Announcement Advertising: Ads will be accepted in person, email, or phone during regular office hours. Deadline is Wednesdays by 10am. Order online at: observerxtra.com/order-family-album Single:

$28 per insertion

Double: $38 per insertion Triple:

$48 per insertion

Please call or email Donna Rudy: 519-669-5790 ext 104 drudy@woolwichobserver.com

Broker of Record, MVA Residential

112 Oriole Pkwy, Birdland Plaza $12.00/per sq. ft. plus C.A.M. fees space for lease. 2 units available immediately. 1310 sq. ft. & 1821 sq. ft.

Front & rear access. Newly renovated.

Lots of parking. MLS

$899,900 93 TIMBER TRAIL RD., ELMIRA

The Home Buyer's Plan exists so that you can withdraw up to $35,000 from your RRSPs for your first home

BRAD MARTIN

30+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE YOU CAN RELY ON!

STUNNING CUSTOM BUNGALOW Situated in South Parkwood Estates with walking trails through the forest steps from your front door. This 4 year old 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is full of executive features.

The inviting open concept layout offers an attractive maple kitchen complete with quartz counter tops, backsplash, appliances and pantry. Ceramic and hardwood floors, gas fireplace in the bright main floor great room.

Walkout to the private stamped concrete patio with gas BBQ, shed and partially fenced yard.

Enjoy the oversized finished basement with plenty of space for entertaining. NEW MLS

Announce it in the Observer.

Office: 519-669-2772 | Cell: 519-741-6231 45 Arthur St. S., Elmira | www.thurrealestate.com

2 Eldon Place, Floradale

SOLD Small town living in the Village of Floradale. Century home in good condition.

3 bedrooms, large upper family room. Eat-in kitchen, L.R., main flr master bdrm. 4 pc. bath & spacious laundry/rear entry w/new gas F.P. 30x60 building with double garage, workshop & storage areas. Upper loft.

2994 Lobsinger Line, Heidelberg Investment opportunity! Duplex presently vacant. Main & upper flrs consist of kitchen, L.R., main flrbdrm& 4pc bath. Upstairs has 2 rms. Basement apartment w/separate entrance. Municipal water. Separate holding tank.

One gas furnace.

SOLD

CALL FOR YOUR

FREE MARKET EVALUATION

ↆ PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ↆ

GENERAL SERVICES

Elmira Lawn Care

Get your

FREE

Booking for the 2021 Season Spring Clean Up, aerating, lawn mowing, landscape & flower bed maintenance.

Phone 519-570-6808 or email elmiralawncare1@gmail.com

quote now!

Your Complete Source for Landscaping & Lawn Care  Landscape Build  Interlocking Stone  Retaining Walls & Steps  Water Features  Back Hoe & Skid Steer Services  Sodding & Seeding

 Planting, Pruning & Mulching  Rolling & Aerating  Over Seeding  Fertilizing  Weed Management  Chinchbug Control

 Grub Control  Sod Webworm Control

Prepayment Discounts for Lawn Care

10% OFF

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

ↆ LO CA L ↆ

C L A S S I F I E D S | 21

PR O F E SS I ONAL

SERVICES

GENERAL SERVICES

AVAILABLE FOR YOUR ESSENTIAL TRANSPORTATION VAN, MINIBUS & WHEELCHAIR LIFT BUS TRANSPORTATION “Specializing in small group charters”

5196695557

Visit our website! countrymilebl.com

ↆ

IN-STORE SERVICES

MarCrest Backhoe

CALL TO BOOK! TODAY.

Elmira, ON

Visit our website

www.biobobs.com or call today!

519-648-3004

or

• Window & Screen Repairs • Glass & Plexi Cutting • Key Cutting • Knife & Scissor Sharpening • Lawnmower Blade Sharpening • Paint Colour Matching • Interior Design Consultation • Bike Repair

Septic Installations · Tile Repairs Small Footings · Silo Footings

Maynard Martin 2512 Kressler Road RR1 St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0

800-232-6396

22 Church St. W., Elmira

519-669-5537

Tel. 519-699-0507

STORE HOURS: MON - SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5

GENERAL SERVICES Thorncreek Farms

Poultry Barn Pest Solutions

Visit us online to see our entire rental lineup.

Poultry Pest Management Pest control with residual built in

Various sizes & rates

CLEAN • DRY • SECURE Call

519-669-4964

519-504-2698

Serving KW and surrounding area

100 SOUTH FIELD DRIVE, ELMIRA

ↆ

WHERE TIRES ARE A

SPECIALTY, NOT A SIDE LINE.

Farm • Auto • Truck Industrial On-The-Farm Service 35 Howard Ave., Elmira

519-669-3232 ↆ

ↆ

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

TIRE

519-669-0524 www.woolwichrentals.ca 100 Union St, Elmira, Ontario

THOMPSON’S

Auto Tech Inc. Providing the latest technology to repair your vehicle with accuracy and confidence.

519-669-4400

HOME IMPROVEMENT

John Schaefer Painting FREE ESTIMATES Interior/exterior Painting, Wallpapering & Plaster | drywall Repairs

519-503-6033 (CELL) 519-669-2251

30 ORIOLE PKWY. E., ELMIRA

36 Hampton St., Elmira

- Design and build -

AGRICULTURAL | RESIDENTIAL FRAMING • ROOFING RENOVATIONS • EAVESTROUGHS

www.marwilconcrete.ca

Wayne Martin | 519-504-2016

519-577-0370

darwayconstruction@icloud.com | Alma, ON

HOME IMPROVEMENT COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

ST. JACOBS

GLASS SYSTEMS INC.

INC

• Store Fronts • Thermopanes • Mirrors • Screen Repair • Replacement Windows • Shower Enclosures • Sash Repair

Randy Weber

ECRA/ESA Licence # 7000605

www.rwelectricltd.com TEL:

18 Kingfisher Dr., Elmira | 519.669.1462

AMOS R O O F I N G

1553 King St. N., St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0

• Residential • Commercial • Industrial

ↆ

Driveways • Sidewalks • Curbs Patios • Finished Floors • Retaining Walls • Steps • Decorative/Stamped and Coloured Concrete

• Specializing in residential re-roofs • Repairs • Churches A Family owned and operated business serving KW, Elmira and surrounding area for over 35 years.

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED

CALL JAYME FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE.

519-664-1202 / 519-778-6104 FAX: 519 664-2759 • 24 Hour Emergency Service

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

22 | C L A S S I F I E D S

“PROUDLY REMEMBERING OUR PAST; CONFIDENTLY EMBRACING OUR FUTURE.”

Community Information Page COVID-19 Woolwich Township Update

P.O. Box 158

24 Church St. W. Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z6

Phone:

519-669-1647 or 877-969-0094 Fax: 519-669-1820

Township Office

Local Business Resources

As the Province of Ontario has extended the Provincewide Stay-at-Home-Order until May 20th, the Township office will be closed to walk-in public traffic. Business will continue and services can be accessed through our website, by email or by telephone. There is a drop box located at the side of our building along Maple Street, which offers a contactless option for dropping off payments, building permits or documents. We will be accepting water samples for drop off weekly on Tuesdays: • Tax & Water Bills can now be paid online: www.woolwich.ca/taxes • Building Permits can be applied for and paid online: www.woolwich.ca/buildingpermits • Report Issues or Service Requests (By-law Enforcement, Potholes, Signs, Streetlights, Trees, Winter Maintenance, etc..) online: www.woolwich.ca/reportit For current information on facilities and services, please see Woolwich.ca or call 519-669-1647. For health information, call Region of Waterloo Public Health 519-575-4400.

To view current media releases or to stay informed the township’s response to COVID-19, visit: www.Woolwich.ca/COVID19

Provincial business supports: https://www.ontario.ca/page/businesses-get-help-covid-19-costs

Council Meetings – Remote For registration, help or alternative participation options, call 519-669-6004.

Recreation Programs and Facilities The Township of Woolwich recreation facilities are closed and all rentals and programs within these facilities are cancelled pending continued monitoring of provincial regulations.

Outdoor recreational amenities such as skate parks, baseball diamonds, tennis/pickleball courts, basketball courts and soccer fields are closed. Off-leash dog parks, playgrounds, outdoor parks, and recreational areas remain open. Please note that park amenities are not sanitized, and users should have personal hand sanitizer on hand.

Residents are encouraged to stay active by getting outside and enjoying the outdoors our by visiting our website at www.woolwich.ca/stayactive for games, virtual fitness and other activities to keep you engaged this spring.

Woolwich Seniors Association: Older Adults 55+ are encouraged to stay active and connected from home. Free, virtual programs, are offered. Check the website for updates at www.woolwichseniors.ca or email contact@woolwichseniors.ca.

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Did you know? Our local MPP, Mike Harris, launched a website to help businesses access available financial supports: https://reliefwithinreach.ca/waterloo-region/ COVID-19 Screening Requirements for Businesses: Public Health requires all businesses to screen patrons and workers before entering or coming to work. Visit https://bit. ly/3sI9r9h for more information about when to actively or passively screen.

Visit www.shoplocalwoolwich.ca to buy gift cards and to list your business! For more information about government programs and other business supports call Jenna Morris at 519-669-6020 or email: EconomicDevelopment@woolwich.ca

Regional Face Mask By-law Face coverings are required in transit, taxis, ride sharing and enclosed public places.

Children under five and people with certain medical conditions or disabilities are exempt.

Please be kind to those unable to wear a face covering. To make a complaint, call 519-575-4400.

Public Health Information Wondering about getting vaccinated at a pharmacy in Waterloo Region?

• Adults 40+ years (NEW) • Contact a pharmacy directly (phone or online) to book • Another safe option to gain protection quickly • Only accept one appointment with a pharmacy OR a clinic For more information on where you can book a vaccine at a pharmacy location, visit: covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations

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Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

ↆ F A M I L Y

C L A S S I F I E D S | 23

A LB UM

In Memoriam

Obituary

Obituary

Obituary

Stroh, Luke

McLean, Jean Irene (Hoelscher)

FOUNTAIN, Mary Lillie

Beckett, Daniel Albert

Martin, Onias M.

Mrs. Mary L. (née Barnaby) Fountain, at the age of 93 years on Monday, April 19, 2021 at The Elliott Community.

Beloved wife of George Edwin “Ted” Fountain. Dear mother of Georgina Taylor (late Ken) of Elmira, Barbara Crozier (Christopher) of Saskatchewan, Nancy of Guelph and the late infant David. Loved grandmother of Heather Taylor (Abner Gingrich), Tiffany Taylor (Steven Mander), Andrea Taylor (Anthony Rodgers), James Crozier (Kyla) and Sean Crozier (Jessica Templeman) and great-grandmother of Ethan, Lylah, Kendra, Solomon, Carm, Hunter, Brynn and Rory. Dear sister of Helen Fountain (late Jim) and Catharine Johnston (late Richard).

Passed away on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at his home in RR 2, Elmira at the age of 72 years. Husband of Rebecca (Bowman) Martin. Father of Manassa and Salinda of Dundalk, Ammon of RR 2, Elmira, Salinda and Manassa Bauman of RR 1, St. Clements, Velina and Christian Bauman of RR 3, Wallenstein, Rachel and Allan Martin of RR 1, Wallenstein, Onias and Mary of RR 2, Elmira. Brother of Selema and Jacob Martin, Elvina and Ammon Martin, Ivan and Magdalena, Manoah, Sarah and Aden Martin, and Elam. Predeceased by his parents Eli S. and Elizabeth Martin, sister Edna and brother-in-law Owen Martin. A private family service was held.

Resting at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Dublin Chapel, 252 Dublin Street, North, Guelph, where a private family service will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at 10am. A Zoom link is available on Mary’s memorial page for those who cannot attend. Interment at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Guelph. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the charity of one’s choice would be appreciated by the family. Cards are available at the funeral home (519-8224731) or www.gilbertmacintyreandson. com. A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at a later date when we can all be together safely.

❖ www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

❖ www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com

Passed away suddenly at his home in Elmira on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at the age of 73. He was born on September 18, 1947, the son of Albert ‘Bud’ and Celia (Potenza) Beckett, and raised in the Niagara Falls area. Dan’s passion for helping people led him to a career in social work (RSW) with the John Howard Society, where he helped develop and lead the Partner Assault Response Program until his retirement at age 66. He will especially be remembered for his love of music, sense of humour, devotion to animals, and fondness for Italian food passed down through his mother’s side (his pizza was legendary and always in demand at family gatherings). Beloved husband and best friend of Dianne Hamilton. Cherished father of Robyn Beckett. Loving brother of Barry Beckett (Margaret) of Niagara Falls and Rick Beckett (Heather) of Abbotsford, BC. Dan will be sorely missed by his brothers and sisters-in law Linda, Pat, Marilyn, and Don, all of Elmira. He will also be fondly remembered by his many wonderful nieces, nephews, and their families. Predeceased by his parents and his sister-in-law Debbie.

At Daniel’s request, cremation has taken place. There will be no funeral home visitation. A private family memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at 2 p.m. at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, Elmira.

The family invites you to view the livestream of his service from the comfort of your home by following the link on Daniel’s tribute page on the funeral home website. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Pet Patrol Cat Rescue Organization of KW would be appreciated and can be made through the funeral home.

In loving memory of Luke, who passed away, April 25, 1996. 25 years ago you left us, your memory is as dear today as the hour you passed away. Forever remembered and always loved by Mom and his late Dad, brother Skye and Charolette, Aunt Dianne and the late Uncle Brian and Uncle Scott and Aunt Michele, four cousins Cody, Jesse, Lucas and Isabella, Grandparents Irene Hamilton and the late Ken Hamilton.

Obituary

Fundraiser

100% Local

❖ www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

Death Notices HURD, DR. GARRY KEITH - Knowing fully that he was entirely

loved by all who knew him, Garry slipped away peacefully at the age of 84 on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 in Wiarton. Local relatives are his daughter Sandra Bromberg (Hardy) of St Jacobs.

MARTIN, SALOME - March 9, 1956 - April 12, 2021 Passed away

❖ www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

WEPPLER, LORNE FREDERICK - Passed away peacefully at

2020 OCNA BNC Award Finalist

at St. Mary's General Hospital, Kitchener in her 66th year.

Beloved wife of Melvin Martin of RR1 Mount Forest.

Barnswallow Place Care Community, Elmira (formerly from Waterloo) on Thursday, April 15, 2021 in his 94th year.

FROM PAPER TO PRINT

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our dear, sweet Mother, Grandmother and Grammy on Friday, April 16, 2021 at The Village at University Gates, at the age of 101. She was the beloved wife of the late William C. (Bill) McLean (1984), and the only daughter of Charles and Edna (Bricker) Hoelscher.

Devoted mother of Ross and Heather, Janet and Richard Beisel all of Elmira, John and Mary Ellen of Lions Head, Karen and John Rudow of Elmira, Bill and Marcie of Baysville.

Precious grandmother of Randy (2019), Melanie and Greg Jespersen, Tina and Scott Hanley, Ryan and Melanie Beisel, Scott and Michele McLean, Krista and Dave Mazzucco, Jonathan and Jessica Rudow, Kara and Darren Boxwell, Shana and Dave Wickware, and Zachary McLean.

Special Grammy to Keaton, Delaney, Adam, Lauren, Jade, Amy, Carter, Morgan, Mackenzie, Cameron, Gavin, Kennedy, Kiada, Dante, Luca, Bowen, Lowic, Jase, Josephine, Cahan and Randi-Lynn. Lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews and their families. Jean loved her family and was always happiest spending time and doing things for them when she was able. She was a lifetime member of Trinity United Church. She enjoyed many travels with her husband and friends over the years. She loved to drive her car, a purple Toyota and did so until her 93rd year and it is still around today. Mom found music a great joy, loved the Drayton Theatre and later all the music programs at University Gates. She recalled often how she used to play the violin and all her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren loved when she would get out her ukulele to sing to them. A private family service was held at the Dreisinger Funeral Home followed by interment in Elmira Union Cemetery.

The livestream of the service can be viewed on Jean’s tribute page on the funeral home website. In Jean’s memory, donations to Trinity United Church, Elmira, Parkinson Canada, or Schlegel UW Research Institute for Aging would be appreciated. A special thank you to all the staff at University Gates and Jean’s special caregivers for the exceptional care provided to our mom.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021 | 24

Living Here

It's about all of us.

Leading the way reporting about the people and places of home.

Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com Report it: observerxtra.com/tips

LTC funding

Vaccine eligibility

Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris last week announced Ontario is investing $6,643,578 in combined federal-provincial funding to improve and make upgrades to longterm care homes in Waterloo Region. Fairview Mennonite Home, in Cambridge, will receive $703,578; peopleCare A.R. Goudie Kitchener will receive up to $5,770,000 to; Sunnyside Home in Kitchener will receive up to $170,000.

Essential workers from some sectors are now eligible to pre-register for the COVID-19 vaccine in Waterloo Region.

The list includes the likes of school employees, child-care workers, those working in food manufacturing and agriculture, as well as enforcement officers. www.regionofwaterloo.ca

Patricia Duench has taken on project raising seedlings from acorns.

Sean Heeger

From an acorn a tree will grow

Chartwell Elmira resident takes on project that will eventually find seedlings planted around town Sean Heeger Observer Staff

PATRICIA DUENCH HAS LIVED HER entire life in Elmira, and leaving a lasting legacy was part of her inspiration to take on a project that sees her caring for about two dozen young trees.

Once the acorns were planted by the gardening club at Chartwell Elmira, the task of taking care of the trees was then passed to a very willing Duench, whose method of caring for plants may be a little different than others with green thumbs.

“I talk to them. I say ‘good morning’ to them, I do puzzles right beside

them and I’m with them all morning – and it works,” said Duench.

“Yeah, I talk to them, [telling them to] get growing and if they don’t grow then I give them heck too, scold them. But they’ve been good to me, they listen, I know they do because look at them.”

The project was the put together by Charity-Mae Votary, programs and support services manager with Chartwell Elmira.

She says someone told her about a program involving trees and asked if they could have them contact her. Elated at the idea, Votary says she then heard back from Woolwich Healthy Communities,

which gave her two platforms to plant acorns that would grow into trees.

“They reached out and I asked them for two platforms. I wasn’t entirely sure what to do with that or where this was going to go, but our gardening committee kind of all helped put them all together. And then, Pat, who’s looking for a little bit of a sense of purpose and things to do since COVID has restricted a lot of that, took it upon [herself] to take care of all of them for us,” said Votary of Duench’s involvement.

Once the trees’ time with Duench has come to an end, they will go

to Woolwich Healthy Communities and Trees for Woolwich. Planting will take place not long after that, with some expected to be planted on Chartwell property.

Duench said that prospect makes her happy, knowing some of the trees will be there so she can see their progress over the next few years, but she warns the squirrels away from them and will be out there protecting them once they are in the ground.

“I can see when I look at them growing that I did that from start. When you see something you planted from an acorn and you see this beautiful tree,

it’s very rewarding,” said Duench.

Duench says she expects the trees to be ready for planting later this year, but she hopes that the animals do not dig them up and ruin them, as they are still acorns.

An avid gardener, Duench says she used to have beautiful gardens at her home and cottage, and still very much enjoys the work she is able to do.

Despite her gardening prowess, she has never worked with trees until now, with these being her first.

Some tips she has for those who want to become as good at the hobby as

she is, Duench says the key is to make sure you find the right balance of water.

“Don’t overwater. Most people, they kill them with love and kindness, they think they’re going to thrive with watering – but no. What little water is in there, their roots will always go to the little bit of water. Don’t overwater, that’s my number-one thing.”

Once these trees leave Chartwell and get planted in various locations, there’s a good chance more will follow. Votary says she is not sure if they will plant more, but she is hopeful the project will carry on.

We gained a new team member this month!

Meet Brian.

AD SPOT - NON PRINTING He will be cleaning vehicles and keeping the shop organized. We are excited to have Brian here with us and look forward to having his help around the shop.

Two locations in Elmira to serve you better

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Tel: (519) 669-1082

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Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

L I V I N G H E R E | 25

A blank canvas for practicing your garnishing skills

S

ometimes the simpler the recipe, the easier it is to overcomplicate it.

Case in point: carrot-ginger soup, whose flavours often get elbowed out with the addition of other vegetables, fruits or excessive dairy. But this simple, creamy, pared-down version is velvety-smooth with clean carrot flavour and subtle ginger background notes.

Carrots are a long-lasting pantry staple, and all it takes are three of them to form the base of this soup.

We used ginger as the key aromatic, which elimi-

▢ America's Test Kitchen Rigorously tested recipes that work.

nated the need to add even onion or shallot, cutting down our ingredient list drastically.

A small amount of milk adds subtle richness without dulling the flavours.

With the flavours in check, we made a meal out of this warm bowl of comfort by adding some hearty toppings. If you don't have a blender, an immersion blender or a food processor would also work.

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EVENT S

CAL EN DAR

FRIDAY, APRIL 23 ▢ Elmira Legion's Meat loaf Dinner. Curbside pickup only.$15 per person. Meatloaf with potatoes, turnip, corn salad, a roll and dessert. Call Robin at 519-897-1618 to order.

Vacuum Sales, Repairs Se Service All Makes & Models

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 28 ▢ Physical Activity and Seniors. Join Woolwich Community Health Centre virtually using Zoom at 6:30 p.m. You will learn about the new Canadian 24-hour movement guidelines for older adults. Rasha El-Kotob, U of W Kinesiology Department will discuss what the guidelines are and how to apply them. Email gberihun@wchc.on.ca to register.

WOOLWICH RESIDENTS SUPPORT FUND: On April 4, 2020, Woolwich Mayor Sandy Shantz launched the Woolwich Residents Support Fund (WRSF) on behalf of Woolwich Township Council.

The WRSF will initially address the anticipated unprecedented needs that many Woolwich residents will experience due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the WRSF will continue to address ongoing needs experienced by Woolwich residents long after the pandemic has ended.

In general, the fund will provide one-time financial support to an applicant. However, we realize that no two cases are the same.

Unique situations may require further support that otherwise would not be accessible for the ongoing needs of the individual.

Prior to an applicant drawing from the WRSF, the Fund Review Committee will access other community services and funds that may be able to support and/or provide for the individual.

While eligibility practices and an application process are in place, it should be noted that in unique, complex, crisis and acute circumstances funds may be provided at the discretion of the Fund Review Committee, assuming the core criteria of the fund are met.

“What a great example of the barn-raising spirit that has always existed in Woolwich,” said Mayor Shantz about the Fund during her video announcement on what would have been the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival day.

9 Church St. E., Elmira

519-669-8362 Email: elmiravacuum@gmail.com

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Access to the Fund is available by contacting:  Community Care Concepts of Woolwich, Wellesley and Wilmot  Woolwich Community Services  Woolwich Counseling Centre  Woolwich Community Health Centre

Woolwich Township Ward 1 Councillor

Fund Administrator: Woolwich Community Services Fund Review Committee: Kelly Christie – Executive Director, Woolwich Community Services Cathy Harrington – Executive Director, Community Care Concepts

How can I help you?

519.514.6051

ↆ The Community Events Calendar is reserved for non-profit local events that are offered free to the public. Placement is not guaranteed. Registrations, corporate events, open houses and similar events do not qualify for free advertising. See complete policy online. All submissions are to be made online at observerxtra.com/event-listing/.

Healthy Communities

The place to get involved.

• Volunteer Opportunities • Projects & News • Sub-Committee updates

33 Industrial Dr., Elmira 519.669.1591

pmerlihan@woolwich.ca

www.merlihan.com

healthywoolwich.org

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

26 | L I V I N G H E R E

Diagnosing ADHD

ↆ X-WO R D The Observer Crossword looks to challenge you and get your brain firing on all synapes. This crossword is only published in The Observer handcrafted exclusively for our audience. Happy word-smithing!

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ACROSS 1. Dirty 5. Angling equipment 10. Civil rights org.

15. Statistics calculation 16. insipidly 17. Copter's forerunner 18. Hon 20. Shapely 21. Pang 22. Apartments 24. "Get the picture?"

25. Charming 27. Baggy 29. turned 31. Hawaiian garland 32. Append 35. Woodpecker 37. Primed 39. At liberty 41. Marks subject of

destination

42. Excite 45. Blotto 46. Flourish 48. Can of worms

51. Winner's take 52. From which 53. Police officer in the

Republic of Ireland 55. Fabric 56. Exerted 57. Bypass 59. Bit 60. To the same degree 61. Children's game 63. Container weight 64. Analogous 65. "Cool!"

DOWN 1. Clock standard: Abbr.

2. Good vantage point 3. Baal, e.g.

4. Nickel, e.g.

5. Anita Brookner's

"Hotel du ___"

6. Available 7. Pink, as a steak 8. Little people 9. Astute 11. Turkish officer honorific

12. lightly 13. Witch 14. Kind of license 19. Stash 21. Bluefins 23. Dirty coat 25. In line 26. Dagger handle 28. Palliate 30. Shown 33. Big bore 34. Sediment 36. Ball material 38. Except 40. Really, they sell houses 43. Wild ___ 44. Conceal 47. Biddy 49. Semicircle 50. Little bit 52. The royal I 53. 'Monopoly' square 54. Deep sleep 58. Regretful 62. "Tosca" tune 63. Summer shade

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I am mom to two energetic boys, ages 5 and 8. A neighbor commented that my children must have ADHD. What is ADHD exactly and how do I tell the difference between a kid who just has a ton of energy and one who has a problem that needs to be addressed?

Do I need an evaluation?

Are there things that put a child at risk for ADHD?

ANSWER: Awareness of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, has grown significantly over the past 20 years.

The number of children diagnosed with ADHD has grown substantially, too. There isn't one test that can diagnose ADHD definitively, but there are criteria that health care providers can use to identify this disorder.

Some people use the term ADHD casually for any child who can sustain high levels of activity for a long time or one who has trouble focusing on a task for long. But not all high-energy children have ADHD so it's wise to be cautious about labeling children with excess enthusiasm and children who may have trouble focusing, as having ADHD. ADHD is a chronic condition that involves problems with inattention or distraction, and/or hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. But it's helpful to remember that most healthy people are occasionally inattentive, hyperactive or impulsive.

For example, it is normal for preschoolers to have short attention spans and be unable to stick

ↆ FAITH

WOODSIDE

▢ Mayo Clinic

Professional Clinical Health Advice

with one activity. Even in older children and teens, attention spans can vary throughout the day. Young children also are naturally energetic. They often have plenty of energy left long after their parents are worn out. And some children simply enjoy a higher level of activity than others. Children should never be classified as having ADHD just because they are different from their friends or siblings.

A critical distinction between typical childhood behaviors and those of ADHD is that ADHD symptoms consistently and significantly disrupt daily life and relationships. Children with ADHD don't have it only in one environment. If a child has significant problems at school but is fine at home -- or the other way around -- something other than ADHD is going on.

Two other key characteristics of ADHD behaviors are that they begin when a child is young (before age 12), and they last more than six months.

Children who have a parent or sibling with ADHD tend to have a higher risk of developing the disorder than children who don't have that family history. The same is true of children who experience a complex medical condition early in life. For example, children who were born prematurely tend to develop ADHD more often than other children.

Following are questions

ↆ Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www. mayoclinic.org.

DIREC TORY

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to ask when considering the possibility of ADHD. Is the child often easily distracted? Is he constantly on the move?

Does he or she fail to think before acting, to the point that it raises safety concerns? And most crucial: Do issues with inattention, distractibility, impulsivity and hyperactivity significantly impair daily life?

If the answers to these questions are yes, then an evaluation with the child's primary care provider is in order. Assessing a child for ADHD involves several steps. The first is a medical exam to rule out other possible concerns, such as hearing or vision problems, or learning, language or other developmental disorders.

The health care provider also will talk with the child and the parents about the child's symptoms. Other family members, teachers, coaches or child care providers may be asked to fill out questionnaires about behaviors they regularly see in the child. This can give a more complete picture of the child's condition overall.

If you're concerned a child's behaviors could signal ADHD, make an appointment for an evaluation. If ADHD is diagnosed, treatment can help control symptoms, making it easier for a child to manage and enjoy daily life.

Elmira Mennonite Church

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www.elmiramennonite.ca 58 Church St. W., Elmira • 519-669-5123

Thursday, April 22, 2021 | THE OBSERVER

L I V I N G H E R E | 27

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28 | T H E B A C K PA G E

Winter was a mixed bag for townships’ road budgets Sean Heeger Observer Staff

THIS WEEK’S SNOW WAS UNWELCOMED, but had no impact on the township’s winter control budgets, which took a mixed hit over the season that was.

Each year, municipalities put aside funds in their yearly budget, predicting just how much they may need to ensure cleanup can take place after each snowfall. Of course, being able to look ahead and see just how treacherous the next winter could be is as difficult as trying to guess the next lottery numbers. Nevertheless, municipalities like Woolwich and Wellesley Townships prepare each year for the potential storm ahead.

In Wellesley, Chris Cook, director of public works, says things are done a little differently with their snow budgets compared to other municipalities.

“Our winter maintenance budget is basically strictly material, so our wages and our equipment don’t come out of our winter maintenance budget. So that $140,000 is strictly material. [This covers road] salt and things like that,” said Cook.

“We take our eight public work staff and we figure out what it’s going to cost us for the whole year to pay at the regular rate.

And that’s what our budget line looks like. So, it’s not split out for summer and winter so for the actual plowing itself… five months of our wages line more or less is our winter budget.”

He says the wages line totals $686,000, figuring that the “winter season” lasts about five months and the “summer season” is about seven. There are also premiums associated with winter work such as running a wing on the plow trucks and working off shifts, Cook added.

A rough estimate for the cost associ-

ated with the five months of winter works comes in at $285,833.

In Woolwich Township the budgeted amount for winter control in the 2020 budget was $708,700. This included staff costs for labour for removing snow ($46,800), ice ($13,700) and applying salt/ sand ($51,500), totalling $112,000. Equipment costs were budgeted at $281,400, while the purchasing of operating materials such as salt and sand was budgeted at $237,400.

Director of finance Richard Petherick said expenses for 2020 winter control came in over budget at $816,259.

“At the start of the winter season back in January/ February of last year, it was a bit of a rough start, even into March. So, I started to become a little more hopeful that we make it very close to ending up on budget or maybe just a little bit over, and then the tail-end of December hit and that just threw us right over,” said Petherick.

He says while the labour and equipment costs came in either just under budget or a tad over, it was the material costs which came in well over budget.

“We had $112,000 [in labour costs budgeted] and we ended the year just over $107,000. So, we actually were a little under budget on our labour. The next line would be the equipment cost so that is the cost that we incur for running the trucks, fuel, maintenance and all that, and we were pretty much on budget for that with a budget of $281,400, and we ended the year just shy of $282[000]. Our harder part was really when we started getting into material… I think that was almost $60,000 greater than what we budgeted for.”

Cook says the snow event declaration introduced this year went well. While they only had to issue two – no warnings were issued.

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, April 22, 2021

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