February 23, 2023

Resident blames township as tree crashes on house

Bill Atwood

THAT AN ELMIRA COUPLE WAS jolted awake in the middle of the night by a tree crashing down on their home was bad enough. That they’d been warning the township of just the very concern compounded the frustration.

Dunke Street resident Jennifer Sollazzo and her husband Joe heard a loud noise about 1 a.m. on February 17, awaking to find a large tree had damaged the house and her car.

“We came out to our tree sitting on our vehicles and our house,” she said, noting they’d expressed concerns about the tree, which is on township property.

“[We] knew it was going to happen – that’s all that went through our head. We knew it was going to happen. We tried to get help to get this tree out of here, and we got nowhere.”

While the Sollazzos were told by their insurance company not to touch the car until their adjusters remove it, it sustained substantial damage, including a broken back window. It is unclear how much damage was done to their camper that sits behind the car in the driveway.

According to Sollazzo, they could easily tell the tree did not have a strong foundation, adding that this is not the first time they have had

issues with it.

“Several branches have been taken off over the years that have blocked the roads and damaged the roof. And in wintertime time when snow sits on it, you can touch the branches. We’ve been trimming it as much as we can,” she explained. Sollazzo has gone to the township with her concerns several times over the past 15 years, but Woolwich decided against removal.

“The township has constantly said ‘it’s a live tree, we’re going to save it.’ They’ve had arborists here who have agreed with that scenario,” she said.

In response, the Sollazzos told the township they would get a lawyer when the tree fell. They have already started the process, she noted.

Woolwich clerk Jeff Smith told The Observer there were too few details at this point to comment on the situation.

“With the limited information we have, the township has no comment at this time,” Smith said via email. Sollazzo said she is “upset with the township that [they] had to wait till this happened to now fix the problem.

“We don’t want to make a big show of this, but this is negligence on the township. This is what we waited for and they knew it was happening.”

Jennifer and Joe Sollazzo’s Elmira home was struck by a tree uprooted during last Friday’s ice storm. They had been trying to get it removed for 15 years. Bill Atwood

If it matters to you. It matters to us.

News tips are always welcome.

Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com

Online: observerxtra.com/tips

Woolwich council this week cleared the way for an on-farm business at 6918 Middlebrook Rd., judging as suitable plans to repair agricultural equipment and to fabricate and paint farm equipment. The decision provides site-specific provisions in the agriculture zone.

It was a breakout season for the EDSS swimming team, which saw enrollment triple from last year along with a number of strong performances at regional meets. This week, the top swimmers took part in the CWOSSA championships at the Wilmot Recreation Centre, and the results were remarkable.

From the Feb. 21, 2015 edition of The Observer

COUNCIL

Wellesley council won’t budge on large tax increase

Bill Atwood Observer Staff

WELLESLEY COUNCILLORS FACED ANOTHER PROTEST at Tuesday night’s meeting, but held fast to plans for a 14 per cent increase in taxes.

Coun. Claude Hergott’s motion to re-open the 2023 budget with lower taxes in mind failed to win support.

Two soccer players recipients of Pasher training awards

Leah Gerber

Observer Staff

NOAH CHAPPELL AND KIERA DICK, two promising young soccer players, got a boost last week from the Pasher family.

Elmira-native Tyler Pasher is an international soccer player who plays at the highest levels of soccer in North America and represented Canada multiple times, including on the men’s national team at the FIFA Concacaf Cup in the United States. Currently he plays for the Birmingham Legion Football Club in the United Soccer League, the second highest league in

the United States. He got his start with Woolwich Youth Minor Soccer.

Now, Tyler and his dad Geoff want to give back to the community and raise the profile of soccer in the area.

Geoff, himself a former Kitchener Rangers hockey player, remembers when he realized Tyler had the talent to go far in soccer.

“The thing was when Tyler was playing here, the coaches said to me, ‘you gotta get him out of here to higher levels.’ Woolwich Youth Soccer is great. It’s the base to get things, but the kids who want to go further, they have to go to

the bigger cities.”

Looking to further Tyler’s skills, the family looked for opportunities overseas in England.

“He was in Newcastle United Academy since he was nine years old until 15. Six years he trained every year in Newcastle. So he learned what it was like to train with private training sessions and private coaching. And it really gave him the ability to excel, obviously. So we’re doing the same thing for kids today. Because they don’t get it (otherwise).”

personal sponsorship to be able to give Tyler the training he needed. Now, he wants to give youth in Woolwich who have the talent and the passion for soccer the tools they need to start them down the path to achieving in the sport with a training scholarship.

“(Soccer) is becoming a worldwide game, and Canada’s a part of it now,” he said.

The scholarship is for two youths, one girl and one boy who play for Woolwich Soccer. This year, the first winners Chappell and Dick play in the boys’ U13

Geoff Pasher said as Tyler was growing up, he asked businesses for → PASHER 5

Tuesday night’s committee of the whole meeting was the third time since the budget was passed last month that members of the Wellesley Township Concerned Citizens group gathered outside council chambers to express their opposition to the increases.

“We want council to understand that they need to relook at the budget. There are people in our community that are starting to lose their homes. We had one woman that reached out, her rent is going up $400. She’s being evicted because of the tax increase,” said the group’s Kelly Rakowski before the meeting got underway.

While the tax increases are based on the assessed value of a home, council needs to look past that idea, Rakowski said.

“We are very frustrated. Our group is almost 400 strong. And I receive messages and emails daily from residents who are struggling. I’m very frustrated. It’s not for the people that can afford the tax increase that I’m

frustrated for. I’m frustrated for the seniors and the families that are just living paycheque to paycheque. Somebody has got to stand up and say enough is enough,” she said.

Much of the frustration comes that taxes are being increased 7.7 per cent alone to cover the debenture of the new recreation centre, something that resident Keith Hehn said is unnecessary.

“We can’t support it. There’s only 11,000 people in this township. We have a new rec. centre in Elmira, we have a new rec. centre in Wilmot. Why do we need one in Wellesley?” he asked.

Two residents addressed council during the meeting, including John Rose, who said the taxes were another added expenses given that inflation has increased 10.1 per cent since January 2021.

“Homes throughout Wellesley and the province and [Canada] are having kitchen table discussions, many of which I’m sure you have had on what can be done to reduce the living expenses. Wage rates are not increasing at the same rate as housing, food heating and fuel costs. And families are quickly determining what they must do with that,” Rose said.

“These are real people. Belts are being tightened as a lot of constituents are struggling with unprece→ WELLESLEY 4

The Woolwich Youth Soccer recipients of Tyler Pasher training awards – Noah Chappell and Kiera Dick – were presented with their awards Saturday at the Nexus Health and Training location in Elmira, where they were joined by owner Luke Baleshta, Tyler’s father Geoff Pasher and David Edgar, a retired professional soccer player and operator of David Edgar Football Coaching. Steve Kannon

WELLESLEY

Small tweak sees Woolwich arrive at 8% tax increase

DEFERRING THE HIRING OF A full-time fire training officer allowed Woolwich councillors to trim a few dollars from the average tax increase just ahead of finalizing the 2023 budget on Tuesday night.

Removing that one hire from this year’s budget saves about $78,000, enough to drop the tax increase to 8.03 per cent from the 8.68 approved last week. That means that the owner of an average home assessed at

$418,000 will pay another $79.66 on the township portion of the property tax bill, down from $86.11.

Over the next year, township staff will look at more cost-effective ways to address the fire-training requirements set out by the province.

Coun. Bonnie Bryant’s effort to defer the hiring was successful, but she had less luck when suggesting the township put off hiring a new planner. Nor did a motion to put off the hiring until later in the year find support around the table as councillors met February 21.

While not part of this year’s budget deliberations, plans to hire another building inspector did come under scrutiny. The addition was approved by the previous council, with the intention of filling the role in the last quarter of the year. Now, that will be reviewed by council at the time.

The situation in the building department is now more complicated given that Woolwich is looking to fill the chief building official’s job.

That prompted Coun. Eric Schwindt to suggest a

go-slow policy.

“I’m a little bit nervous about the economy this year,” he said, noting that housing starts are likely to fall this year, meaning less work for the department. A new inspector may not be needed.

Director of development services Deanne Friess noted the hiring could be put off until 2024 if there is decreased demand.

“That’s not an unreasonable ask,” said chief administrative officer David Brenneman of council’s desire to review the hiring decision later in the year.

WELLESLEY: Councillors vote against motion to reopen the 2023 budget

dented housing debt and higher interest rates,” he added.

Rose also took issue with township expenditures.

“It seems pretty myopic to ask the residents to continue to discuss how they can make do with less in their lives while the township appears to struggle continuing to find ways to reduce or if necessary, defer expenditures to minimize the impact on the ratepayer.”

Rose called on council to take several steps, including better communication of council rationale, hosting a town hall meeting on this year’s budget as well as future

draft budgets, and seeking a third-party audit of the budget.

Another resident, Joyce Barker, said she has “never seen such an absolutely alarming increase of our taxes.”

Barker also took issue with the recreation centre, noting that all residents are paying for it even if they choose not to use the facility.

“Everybody’s going to pay but not everybody is going to use it. Not everybody’s going to join or enjoy the benefits of it. I myself go to Wilmot,” she said.

“We do not have a choice – that is just not reasonable. It is unfair. The majority of the

taxpayers… feel this is being shoved down our throats,” she added.

In response Hergott made a motion to revisit the budget including the debenture on the recreation centre. That was seconded by Coun. Shelley Wagner, however in a recorded vote she was opposed to the motion, as was mayor Joe Nowak, and Coun. Derrick Brick. Coun. Lori Sebben was not at the meeting.

Barker said she was “disgusted and let down,” following the meeting.

Rakowski’s final thoughts were of “sheer frustration and deep sadness.”

“What I, and others witnessed tonight was

complete apathy. Every living body, except for one lone soul, sitting at the council’s table has shown their true colours,” she said.

“Those colours are a rainbow of disregard for others, uncaring and a lack of any shred of empathy. They continue to demonstrate that the Township of Wellesley is top heavy and greed is completely rampant.”

Rakowski thanked Hergott for trying to get the budget reopened.

“I do thank Coun. Hergott for showing a sense of compassion. It is just utterly disgusting that this trait is not shared by any other elected official.”

Dozens of Wellesley residents were at a council meeting Tuesday to protest the 14% increase in their property taxes. Bill Atwood

Rosie Clement last week celebrated 45 years of employment at the Stone Crock in St. Jacobs. Nick Benninger, owner of Fat Sparrow Restaurant Group, presented her with a certificate marking the occasion. Bill Atwood

WRPS issues fraud warning targeting Chinese students

Waterloo Regional Police are warning the public of an extortion scam targeting international Chinese students at post-secondary institutions in the region.

Since October 2022, officers from Waterloo Regional Police Service have been investigating two reported incidents. The financial loss to the victims has totalled approximately $245,000, police said in a release.

The extortion scam involves fraudsters contacting the victim through an automated phone message impersonating Chinese officials. The fraudsters often advise the victim that they have been linked to crimes in China in order to coerce the victim into a series of

actions, including, in some cases, pretending to have been a victim of a crime, such as a kidnapping. The victims are threatened that failure to take these actions would result in their arrest or harm to their families.

At the same time, the victim’s family in China is contacted by the fraudsters claiming to be Chinese officials and told that the victim is in danger, leading to a demand for money to ensure their safety.

The investigations are ongoing.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call police at 519-570-9777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Anonymous tips can also be submitted at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.

FEBRUARY 18

5 : 06 AM | Waterloo Regional Police received a report of a break and enter at the vacant former Riverside PS building on William Street in Elmira. Sometime between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. that day, an unknown suspect entered the school by breaking a window. Once inside, a fire alarm was pulled and multiple fire extinguishers were emptied. Anyone with information is asked to call police. Anonymous information can be submitted via Crime Stoppers.

11:30 AM | An officer with the Wellington County OPP was patrolling along Metcalfe Street in Elora and observed a vehicle with possibly stolen license plates attached to it. Officers stopped the vehicle and as a result of the investigation, a 28-year-old of Elmira man

PASHER: Looking to provide others with better training opportunities

and girls’ U14 Woolwich soccer rep. teams respectively.

The scholarship includes 16 private training sessions with David Edgar Football Coaching in Waterloo, and 16 private sessions at Nexus Gym in Elmira. The sessions can take place from February to May or March to June.

Kiera Dick plays in the girls’ under-14 rep team. She said she felt she had nothing to lose by applying for the scholarship. When she heard she won, “It was an honour, I was excited,” she said.

She plans to grow her skills as a midfielder.

Noah Chappell plays in the boys’ under-13 rep team. He heard about the scholarship from his coach. “I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to, I was a bit

nervous, but eventually I felt I had to do it,” he said. Chappell, who plans to focus on his defensive skills, urges other to pursue their opportunities.

Dick agrees.

“I think it’s important to know that even if you think you’re not good enough, that taking those chances, it’s worth it sometimes. And don’t give up on your dreams.”

Geoff Pasher says he plans to make the award annual.

“We want to give back to the community and support these future kids that want to maybe have the opportunity that Tyler got.”

Pasher says that promoting soccer in Canada is even more important because Canada is co-hosting the FIFA world cup in 2026.

is facing multiple charges, including ‘operation while impaired,’ ‘failure or refusal to comply with demand,’ ‘operation while prohibited under the criminal code,” ‘possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000’ and ‘operate a motor vehicle without insurance.’ The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Guelph on April 14.

FEBRUARY 19

4 : 02 PM | Police received a report of a theft from a motor vehicle in Wilmot Township. About 2:45 a.m. the previous morning, an unknown male entered an unlocked vehicle parked in the driveway of a home on Dundee Avenue and stole property. Anyone with information is asked to call police. Anonymous information can be submitted via Crime Stoppers.

FEBRUARY 20

7 : 30 PM | Wellington County OPP responded to a single-vehicle collision on Fourth Line, Centre Wellington. Initial reports indicated that a grey sedan had left the roadway at a bridge closure barricade and entered a creek. It was also reported that three parties exited the vehicle and fled the area on foot. Police, Centre Wellington Fire Rescue, and Guelph Wellington Paramedics Service attended the scene and could not locate the occupants. Investigation discovered that the vehicle, a grey four-door Volkswagen Jetta, had been stolen out of the Region of Peel. Anyone that may have information related to the incident is asked to call 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-

8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online at www.csgw. tips. You may be eligible for a reward from Crime Stoppers of up to $2,000.

FEBRUARY 21

1 : 20 PM | Wellington County OPP received a report of theft of a vehicle from a residence on Fourth Line, Guelph/ Eramosa. It was reported that sometime after 12 a.m., unknown person(s) stole a red Chevrolet Silverado pick-up truck with Ontario licence plate BT22392. Any person with information regarding this person should contact the Wellington County OPP at 1-888310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online at www.csgw. tips. You may be eligible for a reward from Crime Stoppers of up to $2,000.

The covered bridge in West Montrose is expected to remain closed until Feb. 28 as the Region of Waterloo carries out an inspection of the wooden trusses. Bill Atwood

Geoff Pasher presented awards to Noah Chappell and Kiera Dick on Saturday. Steve Kannon

Anonymous tips can be submitted online by visiting www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.

Opinion

When local news matters ...

... it matters where you get your local news.

Connect: observerxtra.com/staff

Short-term thinking abounds, as budget season shows

Governments are often accused of not doing enough long-term thinking, which includes planning for infrastructure projects. It’s a fair comment – they don’t do a good job.

There is some irony, then, in the fact Wellesley is under fire for its 2023 budget, in large part due to spending on infrastructure, specifically a new township recreation facility.

That project accounts for more than half of a 14 per cent tax hike, putting the average taxpayer – something of a misnomer – on the hook for $112 in extra taxes this year alone. That’s the result of a small tax base having to pay back millions over the next 20 years. The increase was made tougher by a fairly large increase in general taxes applied at the same time.

Large jumps in taxes are in vogue right now – with bureaucrats, not residents, of course. Woolwich is at eight per cent, while the region is even more out of whack at 9.5. Most of that is down the rabbit hole of unchecked operating budgets, with some lip services to the growing gap between available money and the cost of replacing roads, bridges and facilities – aka the infrastructure deficit.

The townships are certainly not alone in that regard – every government everywhere finds itself in the same boat. Nor is it alone in failing to adequately budget for such expenses, in the past through to this very day.

The reality is that there’s little hope for most municipalities to get caught up with such deficits. They’re burdened by past spending decisions that did not account for future replacement costs, and such planning is still not part of the equation today. We’re still inflicted by short-term political thinking that wants to spend today but let some future citizens pay the bills and deal with any fallout.

There has been some effort, but local councils have done little to rein in operating budgets in order to make a real dent in the deficit rather than taxpayers’ wallets. The extra funds being set aside are a good start, but they have not kept up with the growing list of projects. Even at today’s estimates – real costs are likely to be much higher, as there’s a history of being well off the mark with forecasts –local municipalities are losing ground.

Despite plenty of talk, governments continue to do very little in the way of long-term planning, let alone actual follow-through.

The first step to breaking out of this failing mould is for politicians to demand each expenditure is justified, the opposite of what generally happens today. There’s a simple question – who benefits, and at what cost? – that should be asked of every expenditure.

Leaving aside government expenditures for the most vulnerable members of society – some expenses are just things we do as part of a civil society – there’s a whole lot of discretionary spending that goes on without question. There’s often a notion that spending is good just because it’s government spending or, worse still, that because it’s always been in the budget that it should always be in the budget, unchecked.

Long-term thinking is not just for issues such as climate change, though Canada and every other country on the globe are not prepared to tackle even that issue, despite the consequences. No, it’s all about living for today. But longterm planning is crucial for a host of issues clearly part of today’s political reality, encompassing all levels: long-term resource consumption, human migration, transportation demands, retirement and pensions and the like. Weighty issues. By comparison, decisions at the local level should be much easier ... if questions get asked.

They’re not, and therein lies the problem, one that’s hitting residents increasingly harder with each passing budget year.

Verbatim

“Everyone should be concerned when high-powered lobbyists who represent wealthy interests mislead MPs, especially when they make false claims in order to win changes that gut ethical lobbying rules in ways that will allow lobbyists to fundraise, campaign and do other favours for ... politicians they are lobbying.”

Duff Conacher of Democracy Watch about false claims being made about the new Lobbyists’ Code.

A study of 37 large, publicly traded companies that received the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) while collecting billions in profits during the pandemic found they spent $81.3 billion on dividends, $41.1 billion on share buybacks and $51.1 billion on acquisitions. Canadians for Tax Fairness

Ukraine war and international law

Just before the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine (February 24), France’s President Emmanuel Macron declared that he wanted to see Russia “defeated, but not crushed.” That is a very fine distinction, but an important one.

Macron is seen as ‘soft’ on Russia by many observers. In particular, he continues to make frequent phone calls to Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, while continuing to condemn his “ignoble war.” It gets him a lot of negative press, but he’s quite right.

“I chose to stay in touch as much as I can…with President Putin to try and convince him to lay down his arms,” Macron explained, “… and to prevent the spread and widening of the conflict.” And he particularly deplores loose talk by NATO hard-liners about permanently crippling Russia.

Not many of these extremists have senior positions, but US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin certainly made the grade when he declared last April that “We want to see Russia weakened to the degree that it can’t do the kinds of things that it has done in invading Ukraine.”

That meant, Austin added, that Russia should “not have the capability to very quickly reproduce” the forces and equipment

that had been lost in Ukraine. So, presumably, it should end up with neither the manufacturing ability nor the financial resources to rebuild its army. That’s certainly how Russians interpreted his remarks.

This unhinged proposal harks back to the Morgenthau Plan of 1944, a delusional proposal by US Treasury Secretary Henry Morgenthau Jr. to turn defeated Germany into a deindustrialized nation of farmers so it could never wage aggressive war again. The 80 million German peasants might not be happy, but they wouldn’t be able to do anything about it.

Morgenthau’s plan was eventually abandoned as unworkable, but Macron fears that there are some similar crazies in the ranks of the NATO countries today: “I do not think, as some people do, that we must aim for a total defeat of Russia, attacking Russia on its own soil. These people want to, above all else, crush Russia. That has never been the position of France and it will never be our position.”

It shouldn’t be anybody’s position. NATO’s objective in helping Ukraine should be to see the country entirely freed

from Russian rule (including the parts Moscow seized in 2014) not because Ukraine is democratic or ‘pro-Western,’ but simply because that is what international law requires. And the same international law does not permit a counter-invasion of Russia.

Significantly, China agrees with all that, although you have to examine its opaque statements on the war quite closely to grasp their meaning. Beijing is being deliberately obscure, because Russia is currently in transit from being China’s ‘no limits’ strategic partner to being its compliant sidekick. No point in disrupting that process with too much frankness – but look what the Chinese officials actually say.

Virtually every public statement by Chinese diplomats on the war in Ukraine includes the sentence “all countries deserve respect for their sovereignty and territorial integrity.” The key phrase here is ‘territorial integrity’: it refers to Chapter 2 (4) of the United Nations charter, which prohibits states from using force directed “against the territorial integrity or political independence of another state.”

The implication is that any changes in a country’s borders that are achieved by violence are illegitimate and should never

ANALYSIS OF CURRENT WORLD EVENTS

GWYNNE DYER Global Outlook on World Affairs

Politicians not only entertain bad ideas, they often act on them

One would be tempted to feel pity for some politicians compelled to listen to inane suggestions – from the public and bureaucrats alike –but only if they stopped acting on said inanities.

Unfortunately, that’s the never the case.

Politicians have no one but themselves to blame for enacting wasteful and often silly ideas. And the public should be heaping blame and shame in equal measures, starting with unelecting those responsible for foisting bad policies on the public.

That’s a list that includes the likes of police-state rules that have already dragged us into depths unseen even by George Orwell. More pragmatically, it’s the like of expensive and underutilized services, locally illustrated in such things as light rail transit, bike lanes and 30 km/h speed limits. Virtue signalling on causes du jour has become a popular pastime across federal, provincial and municipal lines, serving up new ways to spend money while providing little, if any, benefit to the public.

In fact, spending with little, if any, benefit could be the motto for government hiring practices. We need politicians who can say no. What’s more, politicians who say “begone” to those who pitch absurdities.

(Perhaps a polite “thank you, but please never come back” might be the more Canadian approach.)

Of course, we get no such common sense. Instead, profligacy abounds such that taxes skyrocket even as life is made worse by those ostensibly charged with making it better.

Given that it’s budget season municipally –

JOE

STEVE KANNON Editor's Point of

itself. It’s not.

View

and upcoming for senior governments – now is a good time to remind politicians cuts are what’s needed. Even rolling back spending to the overly inflated level of, say, five years ago would go a long way to repairing the damage of self-serving bloat that has become the norm.

Any talk of reversing years of above-inflation tax increases – leaving aside never-justified utility increases – and rolling back both staff numbers and payroll is met with the utmost resistance. Apologists, both staff and politicians, quickly resort to saying any changes would result in cuts to frontline services, as if that’s the only recourse ... and a truth in and of

Citizens, however, might have other suggestions rather than such cuts, starting with rollbacks of council salaries and extending to layoffs and reductions of salaries. A multi-year freeze, at any rate.

That’s beyond the pale for bureaucrats.

Given that wages make up the largest single expense for municipalities, local councils are predisposed to pass on those costs to taxpayers without a second thought. While most of us realize tax increases are inevitable over the long term due to the increased costs for real, hard goods, not just featherbedding, the key is to make them worthwhile.

The idea is to identify the most essential of services offered to residents, then to begin trimming away at everything else.

As with governments of all stripes, program bloat and internal entitlements become entrenched. In budget deliberations, there is a rationale for every spending request. Taken in isolation, each may make sense, but it’s the role of elected officials to see the big picture, and to nip in the bud empire-building and incremental growth.

Unable to make basic cuts, however, governments are certainly not going to consider, let alone make the tough decisions. Much easier to keep on spending, putting off the issue until the crunch comes ... ideally long after someone else is in office. But just like pension reform, changes must be made now to avoid crises later.

And the fewer crises the better, as they are invariably used by anti-government organizations,

typically on the right, as an excuse for changes that benefit the few at the expense of the rest of us. Every boondoggle and every mismanaged situation serves to undermine the legitimacy of government, in turn opening it up to the threat of would-be reformers. Ontarians suffering from tax fatigue and becoming fed up with the exorbitant cost of public sector wages, benefits and pensions, could easily reach the breaking point, becoming willing to cut off their noses to spite their faces.

With that in mind, public sector unions already moaning and complaining about inflation would be wise to shut their mouths, duck their heads and prepare to give back after years of overly-generous contracts. Many of the jobs could see wages cut in half and

still have a long line of people waiting to take them: remember, inclusion on the sunshine list puts someone in the top five per cent of wage earners, and represents more than twice the average income.

Given that wages make up more than half of government costs, serious rollbacks would be an enticing way to deal with the likes of bloated budgets and deficits. The public appears poised to go along with that line of thinking.

And the sentiment isn’t contained just to any one level of government. Municipalities, too, are ripe for an overhaul, as spending driven by wage increases has fuelled huge property tax increases locally even as real-world incomes have declined over time.

Local politicians interviewed trot out the old chestnut about ‘everybody wants services to continue, not face cuts.’ Costs increases because they don’t contain them. They also have no appetite for making tough decisions: it’s much easier to say ‘yes.’ In reality, there are supporters for every program where money is spent, no matter how few people are served – see the extension of bus service to Woolwich, for instance.

Politicians must learn to say no, learn to sell the benefits of not spreading resources so thin such that many things are done but done poorly –mission creep that serves bureaucratic interests but does nothing for the public is commonplace.

The current cast of characters at all levels who aren’t doing that today must learn to do so, or be prepared to make room for those who can.

Find Us: 20B Arthur Street North, Elmira, Ontario, N3B 1Z9

Contact Us:

Phone: 519-669-5790

Toll Free: 1-888-966-5942

Fax: 519-669-5753

Email: info@woolwichobserver.com newsroom@woolwichobserver.com Web: https://observerxtra.com

Professional Associations:

• Ontario Community Newspaper Association (OCNA)

• News Media Canada

• The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce

About Us: Independent, locally-owned and the only weekly community newspaper serving the residents of Woolwich and Wellesley Townships. Real news, real reporting concentrating on the close-tohome issues in our communities. When it comes to reaching our residents, The Observer is unsurpassed.

Press Oversight: The Observer is a member of the National Newsmedia Council - an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practises and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, contact: 519-669-5790 ext 103 or editor@woolwichobserver.com.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a complaint, visit mediacouncil.ca or call 1-844-877-1163 for more information.

Subscriptions:

Annual subscriptions to The Observer mailed within Canada/U.S. are available by contacting the office or by visiting us online: observerxtra.com/subscribe.

The annual fee is $39.55 (Tax included)

Delivery Concerns:

Issues with local delivery can be directed to The Record by calling 519-894-3000.

Letters to the Editor:

Letters must be exclusive to this publication on a topic of relevance to the community. It must contain the author's name, address, contact info and be no more than 300 words. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. The Observer declines announcements, poetry, thank-you and unsigned letters. Deliver to: editor@woolwichobserver. com or online: observerxtra.com/letters

Store: www.newsmart.ca

Local MPP Mike Harris is accused of having missed the memo about being in an age of communication.

Truth: Helen Hunley, the Lieutenant Govenor of Alberta passed the Family Day Act in 1990 establishing the third Monday of every February as Alberta Family Day. Ontario passed Bill 195 in 2007.

Truth: Promoting family values and acknowledging the importance of time spent with families is the impetus of the holiday. This holiday isn’t widely recognized around the world but share common themes to other holidays.

Lie: Family Day is only observed in New Brunswick, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. It is not a national statutory holiday.

Poutine originated in Quebec in the 1950s combining French fries, gravy and cheese curds. The most expensive poutines include foie gras, lobster meat, truffle oil and Kobe beef.

National Poutine Day is also celebrated in other countries with significant Canadian expatriate populations like the United States.

French Canadians call poutine “frites molles,” meaning mushy fries.

„ Making the case for a sustainability position

To the Editor, The Observer editorial of Feb. 2 reads “Spending any more time, let alone money, on an ersatz ‘sustainability coordinator’ would be a clear case of Woolwich council ... showing contempt for taxpayers and common sense.”

The Canadian government has again made some climate related funding available to municipalities. I am hoping to find community volunteers who have the expertise to write a funding proposal

(plan, steps, goals) to secure some of the $80M by the deadline of March 27, and then implement the plan if successful.

Since you advocate a stance rendering Woolwich without the staff expertise to apply and implement the federal and provincial governments grants available to help municipalities implement climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, maybe someone reading The Observer might know of a person with the expertise to apply on behalf of Woolwich?

One of the objectives of the fund is to accelerate the adoption and implementation of the highest feasible

energy performance tiers of the national model energy codes or other high-performance building codes, such as net-zero emissions codes.

This funding would cover the costs for Woolwich council to align their bylaws with the new national building codes that are set to require Net Zero ready construction by 2030.

This is a task downloaded to municipalities, so we might do it now with funding if we are successful, or later without funding. Our choice.

DYER: Force Russia out, but crippling it is another matter

→ FROM 8

be recognized by any other country. This may sound hopelessly idealistic, but the founding states of the UN made this law because it was in their own interest.

Take Notice that at a meeting, to be held on March 22nd, 2023 at approximately 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, 150 Frederick Street, Kitchener, the Council of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo intends to declare its interests in lands depicted below at 22 Mockingbird Drive, Elmira, described as Part of Block A, Plan 1338 Woolwich Pt 1, 58R1216, T/W 542797, T/W 800602, PIN 22228-0071(LT), in the Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo, as surplus to the Region’s needs and proposes to transfer the property to the Corporation of the Township of Woolwich.

If you wish to speak at the meeting regarding the proposed by-law, please register as a delegation with the Region's Council and Administrative Services Division, using the Delegation form at https://forms.regionofwaterloo.ca/Council-and-Administrative-Services /CAS/Delegation-Registration or by calling 519-575-4400 by 9:00 a.m. on March 21, 2023. For further information, please contact Charlotte Hudson, Senior Real Estate Consultant at cahusdon@regionofwaterloo.ca

Ninety per cent of all the states that ever existed have been destroyed by war. It is in every country’s interest to minimize territorial changes imposed on them by force by backing a rule that takes the potential profit out of them. They generally won’t fight expensive wars in distant

places to reverse a military conquest elsewhere, but they will withhold recognition of the change forever.

Israel annexed the Golan Heights after seizing them from Syria in 1967, but even today only the United States officially sees them as part of Israel – and that only because Donald Trump changed long-standing US policy in 2019. Indonesia annexed East Timor in 1975, but it was forced to recognize its independence in 2002.

That’s why China (rather

shyly) supports the territorial integrity of Ukraine. So do most other countries, although many in the Global South are also shy about it.

The goal of ending the Russian occupation on all Ukraine’s territory (whose borders Russia officially recognized as recently as 1997) is not a fantasy. It is a legitimate aspiration. But the goal of permanently crippling Russia, to the extent that it really exists, is neither legitimate nor wise.

Dr. Barbara Schumacher HEIDELBERG

Sports

Thatsounds fishy

STEVE GALEA

Not-So-Great Outdoorsman

Last week I was reading about a University of Illinois study about muskie – and, to be honest, it sounded fishy to me.

The short story is the researchers raised 68 muskie and rated them on four behavioural characteristics. Then they released them in a pond.

Here’s the fishy part.

To complete their study, they then fished for those released muskie for a full month. They said it was so they could ascertain which characteristics made these big predatory fish more susceptible to being caught. So, after a full month of angling for them, they determined the fish that were caught were larger, less aggressive, and less exploratory.

Oh, sure, it looks like a month-long, paid fishing vacation on the surface. But it was not.

They merely fished for a month. For muskie. In a stocked pond.

Before you get all judgmental, it’s called science.

Bravo good sirs! I doff my chapeau to you all! Well played.

Coincidentally, I am a bit of a citizen scientist.

As such, I am now doing preliminary research for a paper about stress reduction techniques. The initial part of the study had me record and rate four characteristics of my → GALEA 10

News that hits home. Local people in action.

Sports tips are always welcome.

Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com

Team Scores: observerxtra.com/scores

Mental health hub Cops and Titans

The Coaching Association of Canada last week launched a new Mental Health and Sport Resource Hub hosted on the CAC website. The Hub aims to equip and empower coaches at all levels of sport and in all provinces and territories as a launch pad to advancing nationwide mental health literacy. www.coach.ca

EDSS sends large contingent to provincial competition

Bill Atwood Observer Staff

THE EDSS SWIM TEAM IS sending one of its largest-ever contingents to the provincial championship next week.

Eight team members took home gold medals at the regional CWOSSA championship on February 14. An additional four members advanced based on being one of the next 32 fastest times in their events compared to the rest of Ontario.

That includes the girls’ senior 200m medley relay team, which set a new regional record of 2:24.29 at the Central Western Ontario Secondary Schools Association meet, besting the previous record of 2:27.17 set by North Park Collegiate in 2017.

“At WCSSA I think we were about a second off

#wearetitans

or half a second off. But, to be honest, I think we had forgotten about it by the time CWOSSA rolled around,” explained team member Izzy Speiran.

“So we were still training really hard, and everything and I think when we got the record I think we were just really surprised and happy for all of us,” she said.

Speiran was joined on the relay team by Vanessa Gadsby, Jessica Schmidt and Mackenzie Nyusa. Setting the record helped set the tone for the rest of the CWOSSA championship, coach Pat German said.

“I think that really set them up well for the rest of their day for their individual swims because it was right at the beginning. So they were all in really good spirits throughout that championship day,” German said.

The team was just excited to be at CWOSSA, Speiran said.

“We haven’t had CWOSSA since before COVID and nobody’s ever been to CWOSSA. Everybody was just really excited going into it. We all did good; pretty much everybody who went to CWOSSA qualified for OFSAA, so it’s very exciting,” said Speiran, who will also compete in the 50m freestyle and 100m individual medley.

While much of the focus this season was on setting personal bests for the individual swimmers, they put the work in during the year going into CWOSSA.

“We knew the kids trained very well. And I think they were personally prepared for their swims,” German said.

“And they enjoy swimming. So they were excited → OFSAA 10

The Waterloo Regional Police are teaming up with the KW Titans of the National Basketball League of Canada for a special night of celebration to conclude Black History Month. The event will take place at the Titans home opener on Mar. 1 at 7 p.m. There will be a special halftime show featuring local dance troupes, art exhibitions in the mezzanine and lots of giveaways.

Kings victorious in series vs.

Brantford; wrap up season this weekend

Steve Kannon

Observer Staff

FACING AN OPPONENT

ON A 35-game losing streak, the Elmira Sugar Kings could be excused for expecting to pick up four points in a home-andhome weekend against the Brantford Bandits. They did just that, which was necessary to stay in fourth place and maintain a one-point lead over Ayr.

The Centennials will be Elmira’s first-round opponent in the GOJHL playoffs, which will get underway following the end of the regular season this weekend.

On the road Saturday night in Brantford, the Kings got off to a somewhat frustrating start, with the home side scoring the lone goal of the first period despite being outshot 22-4.

Ironically, the shot totals were much closer for the rest of the game, even as the Kings took control of the scoreboard.

In a 24-second stretch late in the second period, the visitors took the lead they wouldn’t give up.

Jackson Heron scored at 18:24, assisted by Austin Mumby and Brady Schwindt to tie the game. Then at 18:48, it was Luke Della Croce, from Jayden Lammel, to make it 2-1.

In the third, Brennan Kennedy scored at 7:06, with assists going to Della Croce and Lammel. Carter Lawson (Dustin Good) potted an empty-net goal at 19:08 to put it away at 4-1.

The final shot tally was 38-19 in favour of the

Kings. Starting goaltender Daniel Botelho stopped 13 of the 14 shots he faced through two periods. Noah Tegelaar came in for the third, stopping five of five. The Kings were 0-1 on the power play, while Brantford was 0-3.

Back on home ice Monday for a Family Day matinee, the Kings posted another win, but at a more comfortable pace.

Elmira was up 1-0 just 44 seconds in courtesy of a goal from Good, assisted by Adam Grein and Mumby. Just over seven minutes later, it was 2-0 when Grein tallied one of his own, with help from Good and Brock Reinhart. That’s how things stood going into the first intermission.

Less than two minutes after play resumed, it was Grein again to make it 3-0. Helpers went to Ryan Forwell and Reinhart.

At 4:19, Malcolm Scott’s unassisted goal put the Kings up 4-0 before the visitors finally got on the board with a power-play goal at 11:08. Heron got that one back, however, when he scored on a power play just over three minutes later, assisted by Taylor Bothwell and Liam Eveleigh.

It was 5-1 after 40 minutes.

Good made it a 6-1 game at 3:43 of the third frame, assisted by Forwell and Mumby. That’s how it would stand until Brantford got another with just eight ticks left on the clock. When the buzzer sounded, it was 6-2.

Shots were 30-13 in

→ KINGS 10

EDSS will send a total of 12 swimmers to the OFSAA championship next week. Bill Atwood

SPOR TS SCORES

WOOLWICH WILDCATS

■ U11A

Feb/19/2023 vs Burlington

Eagles (Playoffs)

HOME: 8 VISITOR: 1

GOALS: Gavin Castle, Colton Cooney, Reid

Denbok, Jack Frede (2), Hayden Hunter, Presley McFadden, Xaiden Weber

ASSISTS: Gavin Castle, Colton Cooney (2), Reid

Denbok (2), Jack Frede, Connor Gillies, Julia Hallman, Hayden Hunter

WOOLWICH WILD

■ U13B

Feb/15/2023 vs Waterloo

Ravens

HOME: 2 VISITOR: 1

GOALS: Leah Frede (2)

ASSISTS: Allie Desbarres

about seeing if they can get their personal bests, which I believe most of them ended up getting their personal best CWOSSA,” added coach Thuy Leu.

The team worked on the more technical aspects of swimming throughout the season, coach Alex Toth said.

“We spent a lot of time learning turns and breakouts and starts and I think that helps them really improve over the course of the season,” he said.

Team member Jamie Meissner, who will be competing in the junior 50m butterfly and 100m freestyle, also highlighted the team’s hard work.

“I like the meets, but it really shows how hard we’ve worked. We practice twice a week and we work really well as a team together,” he said.

Meissner will also be part of the 200m freestyle relay, joining teammates Alex Veitch, Troy Dittenhoffer, and Jonah Schmidt. The relay team is “very good,” Meissner said.

“I think that was the one event that I knew I was guaranteed to go [to OFSAA] because we work really well together. We

GALEA: Who could possibly object to scientific research?

all really know what our strengths and weaknesses are, so we can plan around that and are really efficient,” he said.

Although the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association championship (OFSAA), set for February 28 and March 1 in Windsor, will bring together the best swimmers from Ontario, the team is not changing its approach.

“I think we’re just happy that we get to go at all so I think everybody’s just kind of revelling in all the excitement for that. We’re still training as hard as we can leading up to OFSAA. And we’re just going to have a good time and see how we do,” Speiran said.

Just making OFSAA was the hard part, Toth said.

“Once you’re there, it’s just about having fun. I don’t think that there’s much more we’re going to prepare. We’ll go over some things that they can maybe use to take a little bit more time off. But for the most part…If they do really well, then that’s great, but if they make some personal bests, and everyone has a good experience it’s really all that we’re looking for,” he said.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PROPOSED BELL 60 meter SELF-SUPPORT TOWER WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY

stress for the last month. I now have a baseline of my blood pressure, my pulse, my level of throwing things at TV newscasters, and the number of times I shake my fist at other drivers and yell, “Dag-nabbit!”

I now have a scientific baseline.

The next part of the research, should I get the appropriate public or university funding, will be in the Bahamas, where I will spend a month or so researching, by alternately relaxing on a beach, fly fishing for bonefish, drinking margaritas, and eating copious amounts of fresh seafood. Throughout those activities, I will be working hard, evaluating my stress characteristics and comparing them to the baseline levels I determined here at home. I know this might sound suspicious, but I

am trying to definitively determine, in a scientific manner, if a change of environment and a significant reduction in workload will reduce stress. Sure, we all believe this intuitively, but I think it is important that someone proves it scientifically. And I am very much willing to play the role of guinea pig. You’re welcome.

This is how science moves forward. One experiment at a time. That’s why I am submitting my grant applications to any institution of higher learning that will accept my hypothesis (does Trump University still exist?) and, failing success there, I will start a Go-Fund Me page. My passion for expanding our realm of knowledge will not be thwarted!

Of course, I want to thank those researchers at the University of Illinois for showing me the way.

I realized why they did what they did now. They just wanted to be there, fishing for muskies as impersonal scientific observers, with no bias or pre-conceived notions, with the new rods, reels and baits they now had funding to buy.

That’s why, after they fished the pond for a month and caught seven muskies, they revealed their findings, which essentially confirmed that muskie are not the easiest fish in the world to catch –unless they are already in a comfortable lie waiting in ambush.

I get it. They have gathered the scientific evidence required so that others can build upon this knowledge.

As a citizen scientist, I am impressed by their methodology, but I feel more research (with live bait or big flies) is needed. Next time. Perhaps we could collaborate.

KINGS: Team takes one-point lead into final weekend

Elmira’s favour. Hayden Sabourin stopped seven of the eight he faced while tending net through the first two periods. Brock Grein turned aside four

of the five he saw in the third. The Kings were 1-5 with the man advantage, while the Bandits were 1-6.

The Kings (29-181) wrap up the regular

season this weekend, travelling to Cambridge (32-8-6-2) Saturday night before welcoming Listowel (23-23-2) to the WMC Sunday afternoon. Game time is 2 p.m.

TYPICAL FACILITY PROFILE

SUBJECT DETAILS:

•Project #: X2261

• 60m Self-Support Tower

•Location: SW corner of 221 Glasgow Street South, Woolwich, ON N2J 4G8

•Roll #: 302902000224200

•Coordinates:

Lat: 43.531103 N

Long: -80.498603 W

CONSULTATION DETAILS:

The Public is invited to review proposal details and more at: https://landsolutionsconsult.com/X2261

The website includes: a presentation, FAQ, regulatory information / links, and online comment submission.

Written comments must be submitted before April 6, 2023 to LandSolutions Inc (contact information below).

Please reference file X2261 and include a return address. Further information may also be obtained through the following contact.

Bell Mobility Inc.

c/o LandSolutions Inc.

Tina McCallum

Municipal Affairs Specialist

1420, 333 – 11 Avenue SW

Calgary, AB T2R 1L9

T: 1.866.834.0008 ext. 2583

F: (403) 290.0050

E: comments@landsolutions.ca

SAWMILL ROAD

GLASGOW STREET SOUTH

OFSAA: There’s already plenty to celebrate even ahead of provincials

The EDSS girls’ hockey team took home a 4-2 win Feb. 15 in the first game of the semi-final series against Waterloo Oxford. Bill Atwood

Business

Leading the way.

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

Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com

New Business: observerxtra.com/enterprise

Hybrid work a priority Holiday opening hours

The Hybrid Work Study conducted by Angus Reid found 81% of Canadians say flexible work policies impact whether they stay at or leave a job. Despite that, 61% of employers are setting a mandatory number of days to return to the office. Yet, flexibility in work arrangements is considered a top priority for employees when choosing an employer, second only to salary.

Wellesley council this week approved a request from Pym’s Village Market to stay open on select holidays, including Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Christmas and New Year's Day. Storeowner Krunal Patel said in a letter that the move would be beneficial to residents. Patel will still need permission from the province to go forward with his plan.

Wellesley still working out the impact of Bill 23

Leah Gerber Observer Staff

NEW PROVINCIAL

LEGISLATION WILL

HAVE an impact on how

Planner Tim Van Hinte tells councillors new provincial rules will change the way fees can be collected to offset cost of growth totals almost $27.3 million, an amount higher than usual due to the construction of a new recreation centre. Township staff anticipated they could recover about $3.3 million in development charges to apply to these projects.

Wellesley collects development charges, fees levied on new construction to finance growth-related projects. The details are still forthcoming, says the township’s director of planning.

Tim Van Hinte provided an update on Bill 23, The More Homes Built Faster Act, as councillors met Tuesday night.

“Development charges are fees collected on residential, commercial and industrial development to help pay for the cost of infrastructure required to provide municipal services as a result of new development such as roads, transit, water and sewer infrastructure,” he explained.

“There’s this concept in Ontario that growth should pay for growth,” said Van Hinte, noting infrastructure and municipal services needed by those living in new subdivisions, for instance, should be paid by those building the new homes.

Development charges are collected by the township, the region and the school board for the services each body provides.

The township sets development charges based on what services will be needed due to growth. It’s permitted to collect fees for projects that fall into one of four categories: fire protection services, parks and recreation services, administration, including studies, and roads and related services.

The current bylaw’s projects for these categories

The current bylaw was passed in December 2019 and is in effect for five years until 2024.

Bill 23 will change some aspects of how development charges work, meaning which projects the township collects them for, how they are collected and what they can be spent on, Van Hinte said.

Van Hinte said Bill 23 makes it so that municipalities can no longer collect development charges from projects that create additional dwelling units, though the township doesn’t currently collect such charges.

Affordable and attainable housing is now exempt from development charges. Van Hinte supports that change, saying more affordable housing is needed, though how the province will be defining these categories is not clear.

Purpose-built developments for renting will also be given discounts on development charges, with more discounts given for more bedrooms. “We don’t get a lot of purposely built rental housing in the township anyway, but I

guess we will see if some of this spurs it or not. Time will tell. A lot of these changes are designed to spur a more affordable mix of housing, so that will be interesting,” said Van Hinte.

There are other incentives included in Bill 23 that Van Hinte said effectively give rebates for development charges with less charges paid the faster the building is constructed.

Finally, Van Hinte let the council know that some things municipalities

Rural grocery stores have cultural appeal

Governments are experimenting with assorted ways to help keep the people who elected them fed.

In many cases, that means financial assistance for food. This kind of help is vital, borne out by the historically high cost of food.

But it doesn’t address a key element of the matter: that is, access to food.

Assistance programs are ineffective if recipients –and everyone else, for that matter – no longer have a local grocery store where they can buy food.

Over the past few decades, thanks to tightly controlled consolida-

tion and profit-driven mega-corporatism in the grocery retail business, along with the allure of bargain prices elsewhere, independent grocers have struggled or disappeared.

That’s led to what are called food deserts, neighbourhoods where the only place you can buy anything resembling food is at a convenience store or gas station.

Politicians are frustrated with shallow, half-hearted efforts from the food sector to provide help.

In Illinois, in his budget address last week, Governor BJ Pritzker laid it on the line. He said state and local governments have

OWEN ROBERTS

Food For Thought

tried hard to attract big retail food chains to neighborhoods that need them with tax incentives and with what he calls “flashy ribbon cutting ceremonies.”

“But,” he says, “after the cameras leave, often so do the commercial chains — leaving poorer rural and urban communities high and dry.”

So he’s proposing a new approach. As part of the budget, he’s proposing a back-to-basics model called the Illinois Grocery

Initiative. And he’s dedicating $20 million to make it work.

According to his plan, support will be offered to help municipalities and independent grocers open or expand grocery stores in underserved rural towns and urban neighborhoods.

Further, he’s providing an additional $2 million to help grocers offer local food.

“It’s time we return to a tried-and-true model,” he says, “one where those communities are served by independent, local grocery stores that sell food grown by Illinois farmers.”

He’s not talking about storefronts. Examples

AD SPOT - NON PRINTING

exist where established chains have sensed the tide turning, and made more of an effort to respond to rural people’s needs with farmlike facades. But opening this kind of a store is easier to do in a city of 150,000 or so than in a fairly isolated rural community.

Pritzker’s program depends on community support. And that means making sure shoppers can physically access the store… which sounds simple, but it’s not.

Rural areas and small towns are mostly underserved by public transit. If you can’t afford a vehicle, how will you get to and from your local indepen-

have traditionally been permitted to use development charges for, may no longer be allowed. Notably, this includes using them to fund studies, such as development charges backgrounds studies. This is yet to be confirmed, however.

The bylaw for establishing the projects development charges will be used for will now expire every ten years instead of five, unless the township decides to reestablish a new bylaw and conduct another background study.

Mayor Joe Nowak clarified with Van Hinte that development charges collected in the township can be spent anywhere in the township and they are not bound by geography. The impact of Bill 23 will become clearer as more of its regulations are released by the province.

dent grocer? Home delivery is one option if other alternatives are unavailable, but it doesn’t address the underlying public transit issue.

Food is cultural, and grocery stores are an integral part of a community’s cultural heartbeat. With even a little imagination, the kind of local grocery stores that politicians like Pritzker envision could establish themselves as more than food outlets. They could endear themselves to their communities in ways that chains never could.

What a timely post-pandemic idea as people re-examine their priorities.

“OurStrengthisYourBeauty”

6 Memorial Ave., Elmira

www.guysanddolls.ca

519-669-8234

When you are seeking superior haircare and styling services, you want a salon with a reputation for excellence. Guys & Dolls Salon & Spa is dedicated to helping you enhance your appearance and well-being through luxury salon services.

Their team of hair specialists makes it a point to personalize your salon experience, listen to your wants and needs, and cultivate your dream hairstyle.

Guys & Dolls Salon & Spa is a modern neighborhood hair salon offering precision cutting and customized coloring in a comfortable and inclusive setting. Their services are delivered in a one of a kind space that includes 4 private studios, promoting relaxation, luxury and the highest quality of products and customer service delivered to each guest.

Guys & Dolls Salon & Spa fantastic team prides themselves on providing their customers with unparalleled results that exceed expectations at every appointment. They provide a wide variety of services for the whole family, delivered by some of the industry’s top service providers. This includes hairstyling and colouring, custom facials, shellac manicures and pedicures, waxing, eyebrow/lash tinting, facial waxing, ear piercing, makeup application, mask facials, and hot stone massage.

Guys & Dolls Salon & Spa feature retail products by Matrix, Biolage, Naturmed by Cristina D, as well as O.P.I nail products, and dermatologist co-developed hair care products by DevaCurl®, including cleansers, hydrators, definition and curl styling products, plus L’Oréal Curl Expression is there!

Searching for the perfect gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations, what about a Gift card from Guys & Dolls Salon & Spa. Gift cards can be purchased in-store or over the phone. Visit one of their professional stylists to be seen and supported while expressing your individuality. Owner/Stylist Lori Weber and her staff look forward to meeting you. Call to book your appointment today, and enjoy a luxurious experience.

Guys & Dolls Salon & Spa is open Tuesday-Thursday 9:00am8:00pm, Friday 9:00am-6:00pm, Saturday 9:00am- 3:00pm. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Like them on Facebook. www.facebook.com/guysanddolls. salonandspa follow on Instagram.

©2023 Western Canada Press wcp1@shaw.ca WheretiresareaSpecialty,notaSideLine!

371 Arthur St. S. Elmira 519-669-3232

www.oktireelmira.com

The tires on your vehicle wear and degrade over time and distance traveled in such a gradual manner, that you might not realize the loss in performance until you actually replace them.

Worn tires compromise vehicle handling, braking, traction and ride comfort. If the wear-indicator strip running across your tire tread is down to 2/32nds, change your tires by stopping into OK Tire Store (Elmira) --you will immediately notice an improvement in performance and ride quality.

Founded in 1953, OK Tire is Canada’s largest independent tire and automotive service retailer with the buying power of over 300+ stores, all of them independently owned and operated. Serving the region since 1993 the local Elmira store is owned and operated by Rob Bowman and Eric Brubacher. A professional team assists them.

OK Tire Store (Elmira) is Elmira’s One Stop Auto Shop for passenger tires, van, SUV, light truck, medium truck, agricultural, industrial, ATV/UTV, plus lawn & garden tires. They feature tires by Bridgestone, Gislaved, Firestone, Michelin, Cooper, Blackhawk, and BKT to mention a few.

When it’s time to shop for agricultural tires, decide what you need to achieve out of your next purchase. There’s a wide selection of farm tires for sale that give you the opportunity to maximize performance. That’s why OK Tire Store (Elmira) gives you access to the latest farm tires on the market from major manufacturers.

OK Tire is an Unverferth Wheel dealer with access to original equipment, antique and custom wheels for most farm equipment applications. This includes duals, triples and large singles. They also install Trelleborg Wheel Systems, tractor tires, complete wheels and rims.

OK Tire’s certified technicians provide tire repair, changeovers, balancing, rotation, and TPMS service. Their 24-hr roadside assistance team offers on-the-farm service with a fleet of 5 mobile trucks, 3 with truck-mounted cranes for greater versatility and mobility to handle the largest tires and wheels.

OK Tire Store (Elmira) sell and install customs wheels, and a full-range of high performance LUND® truck accessories. Contact the shop for a free tire quote, or to book for service.

AClearChoicebyReputation

2236 Shirley Dr., Kitchener

Showroom

519-578-3938

The decision to invest in quality replacement windows or a new entry door system is really an easy one. While these upgrades add beauty, value and curb appeal to your home, it is perhaps even more important that they can significantly increase your homes energy efficiency, saving you money on your utility bill.

Bavarian Window Works an award winning company (Consumer Choice Award multiple years) offer a wide range of energy-efficient doors and windows that are skillfully manufactured, and installed by a team of expert technicians.

Bavarian Window Works can accommodate any size project, whether you are looking to replace windows or doors in your home or commercial building. They install French doors, Lift-and-side or folding patio doors, entry and exterior doors, new construction, and window replacements, including The Great Egress Co. windows for homeowners and landlords to comply with Ontario Building Code, for safety in the case of an emergency. They also offer a wide range of high-quality door hardware.

Bavarian Window Works supply and install ENERGY STAR® certified products by Lepage Millwork, Elmira Door & Trim, KV Custom Windows & Doors, Hometech Window, and Ostaco to mention a few.

A great workmanship guarantee, in combination with manufacturers warranties is also provided on all products.

Drop by their showroom, or visit their website www. bavarianwindows.com to learn more about this exceptional business, or to read their blog, view their portfolio of completed projects, and read testimonials from satisfied customers. Like them on Facebook. www.facebook.com/bavarianwindowworks/

Remember, windows and doors are your home’s most important features. Let Bavarian Window Works help you beautify your property.

Please call 519-578-3938 or email your sales representative directly and they’d be happy to set up a time that works for you.

solution

8272 Wellington Rd. 7. RR1 Moorefield 519-638-8990

www.standalonebatteries.com

julia@standalonebatteries.com

Has it been taking longer than normal to start your vehicle the past few mornings? Has it been jump-started quite a bit lately? If you answered yes to either of these questions, it might be time to replace your car battery. Like other motor-vehicle components, batteries wear out over time and need to be replaced. On average, an automotive/car battery will last between 3 to 5 years.

The battery experts at Stand Alone Battery and Charger Services Inc. can handle all your battery requirements with a great selection of batteries priced very competitively.

Established in 2015 Stand Alone Battery and Charger Services Inc. a family owned and operated business is guided by local owners Dan and Julia Tanguay. Their company is a specialist when it comes to batteries for just about every application including cars, trucks, new heavy duty batteries for farm machinery, lawn and garden tractor batteries, AGM / Gel / Solar, recreational batteries for motorcycle /ATV /scooter/jet ski, snowmobile, golf cart batteries, medical & mobility batteries & service, SLA batteries - emergency lighting / UPS backup, large construction equipment and large highway trucks, electric forklift, luggage tuggers, deep cycle and AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries, along with warranty repair.

They retail quality products by Magnacharge, Duracell, Odyssey, Crown, Trojan Deep Cycle, and Trolling Dual Purpose Batteries.

Consider keeping a portable battery charger inside your car for emergency use. Stand Alone Battery and Charger Services Inc. sell NOCO brand booster packs and chargers for all your boosting and charging needs.

Stand Alone Battery and Charger Services Inc. provide fast and efficient service with on-site service for industrial batteries and chargers for electric forklifts. It is provided by their highly trained, experienced technicians.

Stand Alone Battery and Charger Services Inc. supply battery backup systems for farm generators, along with running light batteries to increase night visual safety for Mennonite horse & buggy travelling on the road.

Stand Alone Battery and Charger Services Inc. also recycle used batteries, helping the environment.

Call for a battery quote today, they are open Monday to Saturday 8:00am-6:00pm, with emergency appointments available. Like them on Facebook. www.facebook.com/standalonebattery/

HelpingtoImproveYourQualityofLife

55 Erb St. E. Suite 310 Waterloo 519-883-1919 info@clarity-hearing.ca

Most people make every effort to remain healthy with regular medical, dental and eye examinations. However, many overlook the importance of regular hearing assessments and care. Whether it’s constant exposure to loud noise, the affects of aging or any other reason, hearing loss is often so gradual that it frequently goes unnoticed and untreated.

More than three million Canadians are suffering from hearing disability, yet only one in six wears a hearing aid. Note that 47% of Canadians over the age of 60 have at least a mild degree of hearing loss.

The mission of the Clarity Hearing an independently owned and operated business is to enhance the quality of life through better hearing.

Ana Brezo Hearing Instrument Specialist has been in the profession for seven years, and is a member of Association of Hearing Instrument Practitioners of Ontario. Ana has the experience and qualifications and state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to provide comprehensive evaluations and advice as it pertains to an individual’s hearing care needs.

Over the last few years, there have been major advancements in hearing aid technology. Several generations of digital hearing aids have been released, that offer multiple channels and various adjustment features, rechargeable hearing aids, as well as a wide variety of Bluetooth connectivity options.

Clarity Hearing an award winning business (Waterloo Region Record Readers’ Choice Awards 2022 Platinum Winner) provides free audio hearing tests for adults, along with custom earmolds, hearing aid cleaning, complete range of accessories for connect via Bluetooth, and re-programming, troubleshooting, and adjustments for the life of your hearing aids. They provide a no obligation two-week trial period, so you can try before you buy. You get a 3-year full-service manufacturer repair warranty coverage, and 2-year replacement for loss or damage warranty coverage. Payment plans and competitive pricing is available. They provide direct billing WSIB, DVA and ODSP with third party insurance welcome.

If you are concerned about your hearing or that of a loved one, contact Clarity Hearing to schedule an appointment. Visit them online at www.clarity-hearing.ca and learn more about this exceptional hearing business that we recommend. Like them on Facebook. www.facebook.com/clarityhearingwaterloo/ Enjoy life’s sounds….with Clarity!

Celebrating55yearsofgreatservicetotheregion

5663 Perth County Line 86, Listowel

(just east of Listowel)

519-291-3820

1-800-365-9127

Celebrating their 55th Anniversary in business Conway Furniture a family-owned and operated company proudly offers a wide variety of high-quality furniture, mattresses, and flooring at very competitive prices.

Owner and CEO Paul Dekker, and son Mitchell Dekker invite you to stop by their impressive 30,000 sq. ft. showroom to discover great value for your shopping dollar.

In a comfortable setting, Conway Furniture showcases a variety of furniture encompassing traditional, contemporary, and modern furniture styles.

They are a La-Z-Boy Comfort Studio that features recliners and stationary chairs, reclining sofa sets, loveseats, and sectionals. They also carry furniture by Palliser, Decor-Rest, Superstyle, Universal Furniture, Best, Ashley, and Trendline. Choose from hundreds of furniture fabrics to match your lifestyle and decor. Ask about their 7-year protection on fabric and leather for a peace of mind purchase.

Conway Furniture offer living room furniture, rugs, artwork, dining tables and chairs, bedroom furniture, dressers, mirrors, stools, entertainment and media centers, electric fireplaces, lamps/ lighting, home accents and accessories and much more!

If you’re in the market for a new mattress and aren’t sure where to shop, forget about big box and department stores. Make the specialists at Conway Furniture your destination. They feature quality mattresses by Sealy, Stearns & Foster, Beautyrest®, Tempur-Pedic, and King-Koil.

Conway Furniture features quality laminate roll and tile, luxury vinyl plank, vinyl tile, hardwood floors, and carpet from manufacturers such as Beckham Brothers Flooring, Beaulieu Canada, Centura, Shaw Floors, and Congoleum that offer great warranties. They provide comprehensive in-home estimates, and professional installation with a fit and finish second to none.

One of the most cost-effective ways of all to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer is to choose Shade-OMatic window treatments available at Conway Furniture. They can create a completely coordinated solution for any room.

Stop in soon to see what’s new at Conway Furniture the store friends recommend, for value, price and exceptional customer service. Visit them online at www.conwayfurniture.com to view product lines, read their blog, or listen to Paul’s radio ads each week. Like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ConwayFurniture/ follow on Instagram and Twitter.

At Conway Furniture they price everything with HST tax included, offer free delivery service in Southwestern Ontario, free set up and free removal of old furniture or bedding. They are open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm.

We would like to wish Conway Furniture many more years of continued success, and recommend them to all our readers.

EFAO gets $1.9M grant NFU’s Depth of Field

Rural Connections

A harvest of local farming innovation.

Connect to the land.

Phone: 519-669-5790 ext 103

Tips: observerxtra.com/tips

OFA calls for government investments in

food, farming and rural communities

It’s that time of year again when many of us turn our attention to numbers and columns.

For the Ontario government, it means turning its focus to the next provincial budget. As part of that process, they hold consultations to find out what Ontarians feel is important and to get input into where and how different groups and sectors of the economy think budget funding should be allocated.

As President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), I had the chance to give a presentation to the finance and economic affairs committee earlier this month on behalf of the 38,000 farm businesses our organization represents across this province.

There’s no denying that our sector is an economic powerhouse. We produce more than 200 different farm, food and floral products, generate nearly 750,000 jobs, and contribute more than $47 billion annually to the provincial economy. The vast majority of this activity happens in rural areas of the province, which gives us some unique perspectives, opportunities and challenges.

In fact, this past fall, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, announced the Grow Ontario Strategy where she challenged our sector to increase the production, consumption and

manufacturing of Ontario food as well as boost our annual agri-food exports.

The agri-food industry is a major asset to Ontario and it’s one that can be maximized with strategic investment – in other words, we’re up to the challenge, but support from the provincial government is needed in some very key areas to help us get there.

One of those key areas is physical and social infrastructure, a perennial budget topic.

In rural Ontario, the greatest needs are investments to maintain rural roads, bridges and drainage systems, expanding reliable and affordable broadband internet, upgrading and improving the rural energy grid to enable access to affordable energy, and expanding social infrastructure like local schools and health care. All of these are essential to attracting and keeping people and businesses in rural communities.

We appreciate the provincial government’s commitment to 100 per cent internet coverage in Ontario by 2025, and the ongoing investments that are being made to reach this goal. We also encourage the government to continue its expansion of natural gas lines in rural, northern and remote community across Ontario to ensure all residents have access to affordable and reliable energy.

One of the greatest

Canada desperately needs ‘real’ discount grocery stores

Our current so-called discount food stores are controlled by the usual suspects giants, and they try to fight for market share. But as soon as the danger passes, some sort of truce overwhelms the market. This is what happened when Target came and quickly went in 2015, and with Amazon Fresh a few years ago when rumours were swirling that they would attempt to enter the Canadian market.

This may come as a surprise to some Canadians, but our country doesn’t really have a real discount grocery chain. With higher food prices and a growing number of consumers seeking refuge from record-setting food inflation at the grocery store, real discount grocery stores would really come in handy. But the option is simply not there.

Rebates have grown scarce in recent years as No Frills and other value grocers such as Empire’s

FreshCo and Metro’s Food Basics took a noticeable step back from their ongoing fight with Walmart. Quebec is in even worse shape: shoppers can find Metro’s Super C or Maxi, owned and operated by Loblaw. Sobeys doesn’t even operate a discount chain in Quebec. All banners and stores are connected to just a handful of grocers controlling the Canadian market.

Now Walmart is doing its own thing with price locks, and Loblaw just

ended its 14-week price freeze, which failed to show beyond a reasonable doubt that consumers were indeed saving money. While consumers likely saved some money in January, after a few months of double-digit food inflation, it was not clear to many.

Rebates are just not as overly aggressive as what you would see in European-based discount stores. Every now and then, some impending threat will shake our industry’s

For years, reports have suggested that both Lidl and Aldi would enter the Canadian market. We’re

→ CHARLEBOIS 16

The Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario (EFAO) has been selected as one of eight organizations that will receive funding from The Weston Family Soil Health Initiative this year. Its Small Grains program will receive $1.9 million to support its work to promote more adaptive and resilient agricultural lands.

The National Farmers Union (NFU) has teaming up with documentary filmmakers Tamer Soliman and Sarah Douglas of March Forth Creative to produce and present Depth of Field: Films About Farming –40 short documentaries highlighting farm stories from across Canada. This spring, the filmmakers will begin travelling and filming on location, completing the films by 2024.

Canada lacks the kind of discount grocers seen in other countries, says Sylvain Charlebois.

WHC and WCHC agreed to launch a project to house Ukrainians displaced by the war in St Jacobs.

Fundraising campaign launched to pay for operating costs

Lead

Dan Girardi

January 2023

Ukrainian Christmas thank you to the community from house guests

Achieved our financial support goals

Team leads

Project Sparkles

Lorrie Martin & Jennifer Brown

Transportation

Holly White

Gardens & Lawn Care

Beth Martin, Sandra Rohr & Ken Walter

Coordination & Maintanence

Clint Rohr

Food

Liz Robinson

THANK YOU

Responding to an humanitarian crisis takes

February 24th, 2022, marked the

The Canadian government has responded come to Canada by February 2023. Woolwich supporting Ukrainians displaced by the Local grassroots organization Woolwich opportunity to use the former Jakobstettel home. A project was launched supported Health Centre and friends, neighbours forward

Supported Maryhill Guesthouse to welcome next wave of guests Goods, Services & Credits

Home Hardware St Jacobs

Canadian Tire Elmira

Erb Transport

Waymar

Big Steel Box

Patrick George, property owner

Woolwich Community Services – Food Bank

Jan Yordy

Local greenhouses

Decortile

On this anniversary of the invasion, community for all the support of the key milestones and this welcome

Partnered

Immigration Services Waterloo Region and the Waterloo Multicultural Centre to newcomers from other shelters

Grants

$10k United Way of Waterloo Region

$10k Walter and Jean Hackborn Fund - Waterloo Region Community Foundation

$25k Immigration Services Waterloo Region

THANK YOU an international takes a global village!

the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.

responded by approving 540,000 applications to Woolwich Township residents stepped up by the war at 16 Isabella Street St Jacobs.

Woolwich Healthy Communities identified the Jakobstettel guesthouse as a temporary supported by Woolwich Community neighbours and local businesses came to help.

invasion, we want to thank the support by recognizing some and people that made welcome a reality!

Partnered with Immigration Waterloo the Kitchener Multicultural to plan for newcomers and learn other group shelters

Generous Donations & Support

Elmira Lionesses

100 Woolwich Women Who Care

Home Hardware – St Jacobs

Paul Kalbfleisch memorial

St Jacobs Market

Woolwich faith communities

Private donors

St Jacobs Lion’s Club

July 2022

Hired Ukrainian speaking live-in House Coordinators Andrew and Mariia. Thanks to Oksana Cann for beginning the work and connecting people

Waterloo Region Grassroots Response to the Ukrainian Crisis identify potential guests and provide welcome gifts

2022

Open House Thank you to the community for providing such a great welcome.

Local businesses for maintenance work, gifts of household goods and flowers for the garden.

Neighbours for dropping by sharing food, advice, offers of help, donations.

Woolwich Community Health Centre

still waiting. But Lidl, a German international discount retailer chain, opened its first store in the United States in 2017 and now operates almost 200 stores. Aldi, another German company, now has over 2,300 stores in the United States. Both have similar business models, centring all of their efforts on discounts, plain and simple. With both, what you see is what you get, although Aldi does own Trader Joe’s in the U.S. Unlike traditional grocery stores, both Lidl and Aldi operate on a restricted selection strategy, offering only a curated selection of private-label products and a smaller range of national brands. Lidl may have more branded products, depending on location. This leads to lower overhead costs and allows stores to sell products at lower prices when compared to competitors. Moreover, these discount grocers implement cost-saving measures such as a bringyour-own-bag policy, an incredibly minimalistic store design, and an efficient checkout process. In fact, in Europe, where Aldi

and Lidl originate, clerks typically sit down while working at these discount grocery stores as most of the bagging work is done by customers themselves.

Lidl and Aldi’s strategies benefit the consumer with lower prices and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient retail environment. Some no-frills stores, such as No Frills, do some of that but not nearly at the same level. Lidl and Aldi are also known for their emphasis on quality: their products must meet strict quality standards while still being affordable.

In recent years, non-traditional grocers like Costco, Dollarama, Giant Tiger and Walmart have slowly shifted and tried to fill the discounting void we have in Canada. Costco stands out. Only 15 years ago, Costco was a mediocre food retailer, at best. Today, it processes many of its fresh products

onsite, while the quality and freshness rarely disappoint. Deals are impressive, but shoppers need both a car and the space at home.

The bottom line is this. Canada needs a disruptor, a new player that will redefine competition in the grocery industry. Loblaw just converted more than a dozen stores into discount Maxi stores in Quebec simply because the company sees the writing on the proverbial wall. Grocers, coupled with the complacency of our regulators, have gotten comfortable. Perhaps too comfortable.

One can only hope that either Aldi, Lidl or another non-Canadian discount grocer reads this column. Canadians are calling you.

investments made this past year by government is the Farmer Wellness Initiative, a mental health support program designed specifically for farmers and their families that is making a positive difference for those in need. This is an investment we would like to see continue, and we believe that it would benefit all to expand it to farm employees as well.

Beyond that, we recommend a continued robust strategy to tackle human resource issues in health care. This means leveraging technology and health innovations, supporting the next generation of health care professionals and continuing to address immediate workforce shortages, including through innovative scope of practice and patient care approaches.

One of the greatest problems facing agriculture right now is the critical shortage of veterinarians – particularly those who specialize in large animals – in rural and northern Ontario. The provincial government has already made some positive investments to address the issue and we encour-

age continued support for the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in Rural and Northern Community Practice Program, the Livestock Veterinary Innovation Initiative, and the Veterinary Assistance Program. Financial incentives for veterinary students and practitioners to practice in rural and remote areas and financial support for clinics would also be of value and help make a difference.

As well, the agri-food sector currently faces unprecedented levels of risk and uncertainty, from inflation and trade and supply chain disruptions to pandemic-related challenges and extreme weather events. The Risk Management Program is a shared premium insurance program between government and industry and increasing the annual investment from $150

million to $250 million would help manage that risk, strengthen food security and support growth in the sector.

And finally, not every way to support the sector involves new spending by government. It’s great to see the government’s recognition of the economic benefits of increasing made-inOntario food consumption, and we see a lot of untapped potential in this area. A 10 per cent Ontario-grown food procurement policy for government and the broader public sector wouldn’t increase the budget, but would add positive economic impact across the food chain. Investments such as these will grow Ontario, while moving us towards Farms and Food Forever.

ↆ Peggy Brekveld, president, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

ↆ Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is senior director of the agri-food analytics lab and a professor in food distribution and policy at Dalhousie University.

Arts

Tips: observerxtra.com/tips

Drayton youth auditions VOC and Joan of Arc

Drayton Entertainment is looking for young performers for productions in Drayton and St. Jacobs this summer. The Youth Chorus Program provides young performers the opportunity to sing in group ensemble numbers alongside professional leads. Auditions will take place on Mar. 5 at the Drayton Entertainment Youth Academy in Waterloo. www.draytonentertainment.com

Folk Night series makes its return to the stage

It’s an abbreviated schedule at The Registry Theatre as organizers work past pandemic, which introduced livestreaming options

Steve Kannon

Observer Staff

ITS LAST FULL SEASON

HAVING been interrupted by the onset of the still-ongoing pandemic, the Folk Night at the Registry series has resumed, albeit in a scaled-back form.

Still, it’s all about the music, and the music will be in full tilt, starting February 25 with Dave Gunning and J.P. Cormier. That’ll be followed April 15 by the Allison Lupton Band and, on May 13, by Joe Crookston. There’s a bonus show of sorts when Boreal performs April 14 as part of the Registry Roots Weekend. Not officially part of the (abbreviated) series, it’s nonetheless a treat for fans of folk.

The resumption of the series comes on the heels of a considerable amount

of work by organizer Jack Cole of The Old Chestnuts Song Circle. The pandemic caused a great deal of disruption in all facets of society, and was particularly hard on the entertainment business.

He notes, for instance, that several folk festivals have shut down in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis that began three years ago.

With his folk series, it took a couple of years to finally finish out the 201920 season, and prompted an investment in technology to allow for livestreaming. Watching online continues to be an option with the return to live concerts, a fact that helps offset the reduced seating capacity put in place at the venue in order to allow for more spacing.

It also provides an option for those fans who

still aren’t comfortable getting out to see live music, which is particularly true of older audiences, said Cole, noting the addition of livestreaming has been a “win-winwin” for the series, the artists and the audience.

“There were a lot of new ticket sales, so we actually made more money for the artist. We didn’t have people uncomfortable in the theatre. We told people, if you have any symptoms, just tell us and we’ll give you a live stream ticket instead, so we didn’t have sick people coming to the theatre just so they didn’t waste their ticket. With an older audience,

those factors were all important,” said Cole of the adjustments made in the past few years.

Given that the first concert of the series –Dave Gunning and J.P. Cormier – now has a small waiting list for in-person tickets, the livestream option provides a new opportunity.

That show is something of a do-over from three years ago when circumstances conspired against getting people out for the concert.

“When they offered to come back as part of their new album release tour, I jumped at it,” said Cole of the February 25 show.

Next in the series is the Allison Lupton Band on April 15. The Cambridgebased flute player has long been immersed in the Canadian folk scene, mixing that sound with her study of Irish and Celtic music. Her newest album, “Words of Love” showcases her original material, songs which fit so perfectly into the canon of Canadian folk music that they could easily be mistaken for traditional numbers, he notes.

She’ll be joined by her all-star band mates –among the best players in the world – Andrew Collins, Shane Cook, Tony McManus and James

McEleney.

“Those guys are world class on their instruments,” he said. “It’ll be great, so I’m really looking forward to that. And she’s just a lovely person to work with.”

The shortened season ends with Ithaca, NY-based singer-songwriter Joe Crookston’s show on May 13.

“He’s a great entertainer, a great songwriter and a great musician as well,” said Cole of the songwriter who’s an accomplished guitarist, fiddler and slide player, as well as a visual artist. “He’s a real performer. He gets the audience involved and pulls them in to whatever he’s doing.

“I got to know him because of his songwriting, one song in particular that I thought was just brilliant. That led to another brilliant one, and another brilliant one and another brilliant one ...”

With this season yet to get underway, Cole is already busy with season 16, having booked most of what will be a return to something more like a pre-pandemic schedule.

All of the shows on the current agenda run at 8 p.m. at The Registry Theatre, 122 Frederick St., Kitchener. Advance tickets and series passes are available exclusively through www.folknight.ca and from Cole directly at jhcole@mgl.ca.

The VOC Silent Film Harmonic accompany Carl Dreyer’s classic “The Passion of Joan of Arc,” which tells the story of the Maid of Orléans’ trial based on the original inquisition transcripts. The performance is set for Mar. 2 at the Registry Theatre in Kitchener. www.registrytheatre.com

The Allison Lupton Band takes part in the Folk Night series on Apr. 15. Submitted

Singer-songwriter Joe Crookston caps the series with a show on May 13. Submitted

The imagined life of one of the world’s most famous authors, Emily Brontë, as she finds her voice and writes the literary classic Wuthering Heights.

Classifieds

Help Wanted HELP WANTED IN BAKERY - FULL OR part time. Hillcrest Home Baking 519-669-1381.

MINI -VAN DRIVER

NEEDED-PART-TIME suitable for retired person. Driving Elmira and areas country drives. Text 519-574-1489.

Work Wanted

RETIRED INDIVIDUAL

AVAILABLE FOR INTErior painting, garage and basement decluttering, handyman jobs, etc. Reasonable rates. Seniors discounts. Call or text 519-465-3477.

For Sale

UNWANTED GUNS???

PROPERLY LICENCED

Buyer. Guns, Cabinets, Collections 705-795-7516.

Farm Services

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.

Help Wanted

Seven

A bestseller

Phone: 519-669-5790 ext 104

Email: ads@woolwichobserver.com

Job Listings: jobs.observerxtra.com

Help Wanted Farm Services

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

ICE SALT & ICE MELT - ICE SALT COMES IN 20kg, Ice melt comes in 20kg bags. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045.

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

Pets

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD/BORDER Collie Puppies for sale. 4 males 5 females left. $750 each. Text 226-820-0078.

Wanted

STILL BUYING ALL ANTIQUES, COINS, jewellery, wrist and pocket watches, Omega, Rolex, Tudor etc. Fair, honest prices. Over 40 years in business. gallamore@golden.net or call Terry at Elmira 519-242-6900.

Advertising Placing a classified ad

Please call or email for display advertising quotes for Help Wanted, Auctions, Real Estate, Public Notices, Service Pro Directory and Obituaries.

Family Album Notices: Order and pay for family announcement notices online at: observerxtra.com/order-family-album

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

Residential: $9 per 20 words (20¢ per extra word)

Commercial: $15 per 20 words (30¢ per extra word)

ↆ PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

$1,200,000

$1,200,000

offers so much versatility with a spacious rec room, 2 bedrooms, a 3 piece bathroom and kitchenette area with sink and fridge, which could easily be converted to a full kitchen for multi-generational living. This space has been well thought out with large egress windows and extra windows in the kitchen area letting in loads of natural light.

Additional Features: double garage, new concrete driveway & walkway, main floor laundry, top quality wood used in construction, ceiling fan on back deck, wide stairs, insulation under the poured concrete basement floor, upgrade trim, large tile. MLS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

Tuesday March 21, 2023 at 7:00 p.m.

Regarding Zone Change Application 4/2023

1231 Shantz Station Road Inc. – 1625 Kossuth Road

Please note this will be a virtual meeting only and public attendance at the Township offices will not be permitted. Below is information on how you can submit comments, view or participate in the meeting. You may also contact Development Services staff by sending an email to planning@woolwich.ca or by phone at 519669-6040 if you have any questions.

Take Notice that in accordance with the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, c.P.13, as amended, the Township of Woolwich has received a complete application for the proposed zoning amendment application more specifically described below. This notice summarizes the details of this application and includes a location map of the subject lands. Please be advised that Notice of a Complete Application does not indicate whether the municipality is in support of, or in opposition to the proposal. That determination will be made at a later date.

The Township of Woolwich will hold a Public Meeting, under Section 34 of the Planning Act, to consider the following Zone Change application. No decisions will be made at this meeting; its purpose is to provide additional information to the public and agencies and to receive comments and information from them.

APPLICATION DETAILS

The 48.3 hectare property known as 1625 Kossuth Road also has frontage on Shantz Station Road (municipal address 1231 Shantz Station Road) (see Location Map). The lands are designated Prime Agricultural Area in the Township Official Plan and are zoned Agricultural (A) with site specific provisions (Section 26.1.308). The current site specific provisions permit the operation of an outdoor topsoil operation with limited sales of bulk mulch. The property is developed with an integrated agri-business operation including the growing, processing and distribution of farm products such as sod, common field crops and soil amendments.

The purpose of the application is to amend the site specific provisions to permit the establishment of a multi-unit bunkhouse. The bunkhouse is proposed to have five separate living units / pods to accommodate up to 30 seasonal workers who will assist with the farming and on-site business operations. The bunkhouse is proposed to be located east of the existing building cluster and will be serviced by a private well and septic system.

APPEAL RIGHTS

TAKE NOTICE that if a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Township of Woolwich to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal but the person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of Woolwich before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision.

AND TAKE NOTICE that if a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Township of Woolwich before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

As in-person meetings are not an option at this time, you can view or participate in the Public Meeting as follows:

VIEW the Public Meeting / Council meeting livestream on the Woolwich Township YouTube channel at the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOnLlF3Srk2gLEBjkq8pIMQ ;

PARTICIPATE in the Public Meeting by REGISTERING with Council/Committee Facilitator on or before 1:00 pm on Thursday Mart 16, 2023.

To register please:

• visit www.woolwich.ca/delegations for more information on speaking before Council and to register through the online delegation request form; or

• email council meetings@woolwich.ca or phone 519-669-6004.

When registering you must provide your name, phone number, email and the application number you would like to comment on. Once you are registered staff will forward information on how to connect to the Zoom meeting (i.e. zoom Wi-Fi login or conference call number).

If you are concerned that you do not have access to phone or internet or are otherwise concerned about the reliability of your signal, please ensure that you submit written comments. Written comments do not negate your opportunity to also speak at the Public Meeting but do ensure your voice is heard should your electronic connection to the meeting not work.

If you are unsure whether or not you would like to speak at the meeting but want to listen and have the option to comment on a particular application, please register with the Council/Committee Facilitator. You will not be required to speak if you do not want to.

WHY REGISTER

By registering staff can ensure that you are permitted access to the virtual meeting, we know which application you are commenting on and, can call on you at the appropriate time to comment if you wish to do so. As it is virtual, registering will provide a level of security that is necessary to prevent meeting disruptions.

SUBMITTING COMMENTS AND REQUESTING NOTIFICATION

You can express your concerns/ comments about the proposed changes in writing to the Township of Woolwich. Any comments received on or before Friday March 10, 2023 (Note that this date is before the public meeting) will be included in a report prepared by Development Services and presented at the Public Meeting. Any comments received after the Public Meeting, but prior to Council making a decision on the applications, will be considered.

The personal information accompanying your submission is being collected under the authority of the Planning Act and may form part of the public record which may be released to the public. This information is collected and maintained for the purpose of creating a record that is available to the general public at the Committee of the Whole and Council meetings. Please note that while the Committee of the Whole and Council may redact some personal information such as email addresses and phone numbers, your submissions will otherwise be made public in their entirety. Questions about this collection should be directed to the Records and Freedom of Information Officer at 519-669-1647 or 1-877-969-0094 ext. 6005.

Should you wish to be notified of future meetings and reports regarding the Zone Change application please:

• submit a written request, noting that you wish to be kept informed, to the Township of Woolwich, Development Services, 24 Church Street West, Box 158, Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z6, or

• email your request noting that you wish to be kept informed to planning@ woolwich.ca

If Council approves the change, a notice will be mailed to you explaining the By-law.

MORE INFORMATION

Additional information related to these applications can be viewed or obtained as follows:

Schedule an appointment to view the documents at the Township Administration building located at 24 Church Street West, Elmira weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm. To schedule an appointment please call 519-669-6040 or email planning@woolwich.ca

Dated at the Township of Woolwich this 23rd day of February 2023.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COUNCIL MEETING REGARDING

PROPOSED NEW OFFICIAL PLAN

THE PURPOSE OF THE COUNCIL MEETING

The Council of the Township of Woolwich will hold a public meeting, pursuant to Section 26(3) of the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as amended, for the purposes of discussing the proposed New Official Plan. The Council Meeting will be held as follows:

TUESDAY MARCH 28, 2023

7:00 P.M.

TOWNSHIP OFFICE TOWNSHIP OF WOOLWICH

THE PUBLIC MEETING OF COUNCIL is to discuss the proposed new Official Plan for the Township of Woolwich. The Public Meeting of Council is intended to provide an opportunity for the public to offer comments regarding any issue or matter that should be considered in creating the new Official Plan. Members of Council will also be providing input on their issues or matters to be considered during the new Official Plan process.

BACKGROUND ON THE NEW OFFICIAL PLAN

The proposed new Official Plan would replace the existing in force and in effect Official Plan once approved. The proposed new Official Plan will affect all lands within the Township of Woolwich. The plan will outline the goals, objectives, and policies primarily used to support growth, economic development, and building the Township’s future as well as establish a framework for managing the effects of growth on the social, economic and natural environment of the Township. The Planning Act requires that an Official Plan conform with provincial plans or does not conflict with them; has regard to matters of provincial interest; is consistent with provincial policy statements; and addresses recent legislative changes. Taking into account the timing of the approval of the current Official Plan, the introduction of a 2020 Provincial Policy Statement and amendments to the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as well as a new Regional Official Plan, the Township has initiated the creation of a new Official Plan.

SUBJECT LANDS

The new Official Plan will affect all lands within the municipal boundary of the Township of Woolwich. Accordingly, no key map is provided.

YOUR INPUT IS IMPORTANT

Any person can view the public meeting and/or provide written comments or a verbal representation by virtual participation. Should in-person attendance be permitted, notice will be provided to the public, spaces will be limited, and a registration process will be in place.

Register for the Meeting:

Contact the Committee Clerk on or before 10:00 am on Tuesday March 21, 2023.

To register please:

• visit www.woolwich.ca/delegations for more information on speaking before Council and to register through the online delegation request form; or

• email councilmeetings@woolwich.ca or phone 519-669-6004

When registering you must provide your name, phone number, email and the application number you would like to comment on. Once you are registered the Committee Clerk will forward information on how to connect to the Zoom meeting (i.e. zoom Wi-Fi login or conference call number).

View the Public Meeting / Council meeting livestream on the Woolwich Township YouTube channel at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOnLlF3Srk2gLEBjkq8pIMQ

If you are unable to view / attend the public meeting, you may provide written comments in the following manner:

Email:

• Jeremy Vink, Township of Woolwich – jvink@woolwich.ca

• Heather Sewell, NPG Planning Solutions – hsewell@npgsolutions.ca

Mail / Drop off: Township of Woolwich, Attn: Jeremy Vink, RE: New Official Plan, P.O. Box 158, 24 Church Street West, Elmira, ON, N3B 2Z6

A copy of the agenda for the public meeting of Council, including a staff report and any attachments, will be available by Thursday, March 23, 2023 at 3 pm.

The Township’s current Official Plan may be reviewed on the Township of Woolwich website at Woolwich.ca/officialplan

NOTICE OF COLLECTION

Personal information collected as a result of this public meeting is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), the Planning Act, and all other relevant legislation, and will be used to assist in making a decision on this matter. All personal information (as defined by MFIPPA), including (but not limited to) names, addresses, opinions and comments collected will be made available for public disclosure to members of the public, at the meeting, through requests, and through the website of the Township of Woolwich. Questions regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of this personal information may be directed to the Clerk, Township of Woolwich; P.O. Box 158, 24 Church Street West, Elmira, ON, N3B 2Z6.

This notice published on February 16, 2023 and February 23, 2023.

COVID-19 Information:

The health and safety of residents, Council, and staff is the most important part of this meeting. If in-person attendance is permitted at this time, residents who do not wish to attend or are sick and unable to attend in-person, have the option of submitting their comments in writing. Both in person and written comments are equally valued.

Jeff Smith Clerk, Township of Woolwich

Thank you

Thank you to everyone who attended my Birthday Open House.

Your generosity to the Food Bank program was overwhelming both financially and tangibly. Thank you also to everyone who was unable to attend but sent well wishes through emails, cards, and gifts. The sentiments expressed were humbling. And lastly, to my family who planned it all and made it a day of renewing memories and the making of many more new ones.

With love and gratitude, Eugene (Sam) Read

Obituary

Martin, Noah MB

Noah MB Martin passed away at his home on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 in his 89th year. Husband of Adeline Martin. Father of Alvin and Adina Martin of RR 3, Wellesley, Paul and Lucinda Martin of RR 1, St. Clements, Rachel and Ezra Martin of RR 3, Wallenstein, David and Selema Martin, Noah and Annie Martin, Manassa and Mary Martin all of St. Clements. Also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Brother of Ezra and Melinda Martin and brother-in-law of Lucinda Martin. Predeceased by his parents Abraham W. and Rebecca Martin, his first wife Nancy Sherk, grandson Noah Martin, and siblings Solomon, Annie, Samuel and Abraham. Burial and funeral service to be held at Martin Mennonite Meeting House.

www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

Death Notice

BACH, GRACE CATHERINE - Passed away surrounded by family on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at Knollcrest Lodge just shy of her 90th Birthday. Grace was born in Wallenstein.

BINKLEY, GERALD ALLAN - Gerald passed away peacefully in his sleep at age 93 on Friday, February 17, 2023. Local relatives are his son Martin (Theresa) of St. Jacobs.

GRONDIN, DOREEN - At Groves Memorial Hospital (Fergus) surrounded by her family, on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, of RR 1, Ariss passed away at the age of 85.

KENNELL, ALVIN "AL" - Passed away peacefully the morning of Tuesday, February 14, 2023, just 4 days after his 91st birthday.

RUDY, JOANNE - Passed peacefully at the Kingston General Hospital on Friday, February 10, 2023, at the age of 72, originally from Elmira.

STECKLEY, JEFFERSON KARL "JEFF" - It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Jefferson Karl Steckley on the evening of Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at the age of 33 years.

PETTLEY, Zachary David George

Passed away unexpectedly at Grand River Hospital with his family by his side on Saturday, February 18, 2023 at the age of 10. Loving son of Stephanie and Michael Pettley of Elmira. Cherished grandson of Dawn and the late David Koebel of Elmira with whom he shared a special bond; always papa’s little buddy. Loved nephew of Shannon and Brad Frey of Elmira, Lisa and Tim Pettley of Kitchener, and Raymond Pettley of Kitchener. He will be missed by cousins Logan and Seth Pettley; Brooklyn and Hudson Frey. Adored by many great aunts and uncles, particularly his second “papa” Brad Wilken and family. Zachary was predeceased by his paternal grandparents George and Florence (nee Dubé) Pettley. Zach (Zig) will be remembered for his infectious smile when he entered a room. He loved spending time with his family and could always get the party started by having everyone play one of his favourite board or card games. He was a Pokémon fanatic and could always be found collecting cards or playing the latest video games with his friends. Zach was a kind, sensitive and compassionate boy who loved all animals but cared deeply for his dogs, Dexter and Delilah. His curious mind always had him searching for cool insects and wildlife. Always full of energy, Zach took karate lessons, adored fishing with his dad, was a member of the Woolwich Wave swim team and KidZone at Wallenstein Bible Chapel. He was very creative and expressed his artistic talents through his drawings; his attention to detail was superb. Even though his time was short, he went on many adventures with his family including: Niagara Falls, Florida (Disney World), Myrtle Beach, Mexico and summers at the trailer in Belwood. The love and joy he brought to so many lives will never be forgotten. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. You are so loved. Visitation will take place on Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 1 - 4 p.m. at Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira. A funeral service will be held on Monday, February 27, 2023 at St. James Lutheran Church, 60 Arthur St. S., Elmira, at 1 p.m. with Pastor Hans Borch officiating. We are overwhelmed with all the love and support we have received through the GoFundMe made in Zachary’s honour. In memory of Zachary, donations can be directed to Riverside Public School or the Kitchener Humane Society, and may be made through the Dreisinger Funeral Home, Elmira.

❖ www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

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

Humane Society appeal Freedom to Read Week

The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth this week made an appeal for foster homes for 16 large-breed dogs. With 21 large dogs in their care and 16 of them on-site between Kitchener and Stratford centres, there is a pressing need for new foster caregivers. www.kwsphumane.ca

The Region of Waterloo Library is marking Freedom to Read Week, a time to reflect on Canadians’ Charter right to intellectual freedom. Every year, schools and libraries receive requests for materials to be restricted or removed, which may on occasion be justified, but often is not. www.rwlibrary.ca

EMSF committee undergoes a youth movement

New leadership includes Matt Jessop serving as chair and Quentin Meyer in the role of vice-chair for this year's festival

Leah Gerber Observer Staff

THE ELMIRA MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL committee has long been seeking younger volunteers to get involved with the decades-old event. This year, they’ve got that in spades.

The new chair of the committee is 25. The vicechair is 24.

Matt Jessop comes to the chair’s seat as something of a family affair, as his father is a long-time EMSF volunteer who also served as chair.

Jessop said he felt ready to take on the responsibility and put his name forward this summer to run as chair. He was elected in November, and says he’s ready to take on the mantle.

“I volunteered since I was eight years old. I’m 25 now, so I’ve done it for over 16 years, participating in some way. I feel that I have a really solid understanding of how the festi-

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Since the start of winter, my eyes feel dry and scratchy. I can no longer wear contacts because my eyes burn and sting, and are watery. How can my eyes be dry and watery at the same time, and what can be done to fix this?

ANSWER: It is common to have dry and watery eyes at the same time. Watery eyes is the No. 1 complaint of those with dry eyes. That’s because when your eyes get dry enough, they act as if there is something in them and try to flush

val works and runs. Since I was about 18 years old, I’ve looked after the festival sanitation subcommittee.

I’m not really nervous because I’m enthusiastic about it and more excited that we’re going to be able to come back this year with an in-person event and do what we’ve always done.”

He’ll have input as needed from his father, Ken Jessop, who provides a link to the event.

“It’s very close to my heart as an organization. I think we do a lot of great things for the community, so it seems just like a natural step for me,” he said.

Jessop is joined by 24-year-old Quentin Meyer as the vice-chair of the festival.

“I’ve been on the committee since 2016. Matt and I, we both kind of [stepped up] together. I’ve known him for quite some time and he was looking to revamp the festival going forward in the next few years,” said Meyer.

▢ Mayo Clinic

“So we both looked at this as an opportunity where we can finally gather in person instead of our hybrid or virtual models we had previously. We thought this was the

perfect time after three years of alternatives to really revamp the festival, and start a new generation of leadership going forward.”

Jessop and Meyer are

particularly excited to do the work of chair and vicechair this year as the festival comes back in person for the first time since the pandemic. In 2020, the festival was cancelled

Ways to find relief for dry eyes

Professional Clinical Health Advice

it out. And this leads to watery eyes.

People with dry eyes produce poor-quality tears, not enough tears or both. This leads to chronic inflammation of the eye surface and a stinging or burning sensation.

You also could have eye redness, difficulty wearing contact lenses, blurred vision, sensitivity to light or eye fatigue. Winter can

be especially challenging with dry air and forcedair heaters in vehicles or other enclosed environments.

There are many causes of dry eyes, and some people have a greater risk of developing dry eyes. People who have acne rosacea; diabetes; thyroid disease; autoimmune diseases; and inflammatory diseases that include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome are more likely to develop dry eyes.

The development of

dry eyes can be affected by the overall health of your eyes. Irregular eyelid margins, eyelash mites and some eye diseases can contribute to dry eye disease. Wearing contacts for a long time, or a poor blinking rate or incomplete blinking, which often occurs when using digital devices, also can lead to dry eyes.

Environmental factors, like secondhand smoke, low seasonal air quality or polluted air, can cause eye irritation and be problematic. Your diet

at the last minute, and virtual or hybrid events were held in 2021 and 2022.

This year, if the weather is nice, Jessop, Meyer and the rest of the committee anticipate more than 80,000 visitors could come to Elmira on festival day. He says an average year sees between 60,000 to 70,000 people.

“Just saying that we’re back and knowing how well received all the other events that are similar in nature have been in the last several months, we would say that we’re anticipating to potentially have our largest ever crowds, given that the weather is very much an impacting factor that could dictate how big the crowd is. But if we have nice weather, we think that it may be bigger and better than ever.”

In preparation for possibly the biggest crowd ever, the committee has decided to shuffle some of the festival’s features

→ EMSF 28

also can affect your eyes. Diets high in omega-6 fatty acids and low in omega-3 fatty acids can cause inflammation, a key component to dry eye disease. A heart-smart diet high in vitamin D, such as the Mediterranean diet, is an eye-smart diet.

Taking some medications, like antihistamines, antidepressants and birth control pills, can increase the likelihood of dry eyes. Preservatives in medicated eyedrops used chronically, including glaucoma drops and

over-the-counter artificial tears, also can worsen dry eye symptoms. Avoid drops that claim to get the red out. These can lead to rebound red eyes, which cause eyes to be even redder and more irritated than before.

Finally, dry eyes are more common as you get older. Normal aging changes your eyes, and they don’t function as well as when you’re younger. Dry eyes also can be caused by changes in hormone levels associated

Matt Jessop is the new EMSF chair, while Quentin Mayer serves as vice-chair. Leah Gerber

This cheesy bean bake is family-friendly

On busy weeknights, there’s nothing like a one-pan meal the whole family will love! You can even get the kids involved to help make this easy dish.

All it takes is stirring white beans into a quick-cooking tomato sauce, topping the mixture with cheese and bread crumbs, then baking until it’s creamy and crunchy!

This recipe uses two types of cheese — mozzarella and Parmesan — so one way to get the kids involved in the cook-

▢ America's Test Kitchen

Rigorously tested recipes that work.

ing process is to have them taste each one and compare the different flavours and textures before sprinkling bits of cheese on top of the dish.And just like that, in about an hour you’ll have made a scrumptious meal with your family. And because it’s in one pan, there’s minimal cleanup! No one has to fight over whose turn it is to clean a mountain of dishes.

Cheesy Bean and Tomato Bake

▢ 2 (15-ounce) cans

white beans, drained and rinsed

▢ 1 tbsp plus 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided

▢ 1 small onion, chopped fine

▢ 3⁄4 teaspoon table salt

▢ 3 garlic cloves, minced

▢ 1 tsp dried oregano

▢ Pinch red pepper

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 475 degrees. In a 12-inch oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes (oil should be hot but not smoking).

2. Add onion and salt and cook, stirring often, until onion is softened, about 5 minutes.

Add garlic, oregano and pepper flakes (if using) and cook, stirring constantly, for 30 seconds.

3. Stir in tomatoes, water and sugar. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.

4. Add beans to skillet and stir to coat with

flakes (optional)

▢ 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

▢ 1⁄3 cup water

Pinch sugar

▢ 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (1⁄2 ounce)

▢ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 ounces)

▢ 1⁄2 cup panko bread crumbs

sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beans are warmed through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

5. Stir Parmesan and half of mozzarella into beans. Spread beans into an even layer. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella evenly over top.

6. In a small bowl, combine panko and remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Stir until panko is coated with oil. Sprinkle panko evenly over top of cheese.

7. Transfer skillet to oven. Bake until cheese is melted and panko is well browned, 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer skillet to a cooling rack (skillet will be VERY hot). Let beans cool for 5 minutes. Serve.

ↆ For 25 years, confident cooks in the know have relied on America's Test Kitchen for rigourously tested recipes developed by professional test cooks and vetted by 60,000 at-home recipe testers. See more online at www. amercastestkitchen.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24

▢ Friday Food at the Elmira Legion. Doors open at 4 p.m., serving at 5:45 p.m. Menu: chicken burger, fries, coleslaw, dessert, $10/plate. Join us in the lounge. All welcome.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

▢ Coldest Night of the Year. Raising funds for Woolwich Community Services. Family-friendly walk to raise money for WCS programs, serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. Team up, fundraise, walk, and gather for good...because it's cold out there. Join us at Woodside Bible Fellowship, Barnswallow Drive, Elmira. 4 p.m. registration, 5 p.m. walk begins, 6 p.m. community chili dinner.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1

▢ Waterloo Region Newcomers and Friends Club. All women who are new to the area or have experienced a lifestyle change are welcome. Guest speaker and social activities. Join us from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 145 Lincoln Rd, Waterloo. For further information: waterloonewcomersandfriends@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

▢ Friday Food at the Elmira Legion. Doors open at 4 p.m., serving at 5:45 p.m. Menu: lasagna, caesar salad, roll, dessert, $12/plate. Join us in the lounge. All welcome.

THURSDAY, MARCH 9

▢ Woodside Evergreen for Seniors at Woodside Church, Elmira, 10:30 a.m. "Songs and Stories of Bringing Healing and the Gospel of Jesus to the Indigenous People of Canada" by Rick and Linda Martin of Niverville, Manitoba. Suggested donation $10 includes hot lunch. Preregister by March 9 at www.woodsidechurch.ca/evergreen or 519-6691296.

▢ Gardening 101 with local gardeners Fred Lichti and Chrissy Arjune at the Woolwich Memorial Centre, Elmira, 7 p.m to 8:30 p.m. This is a brief introduction to the basics of planting and growing a vegetable garden with a hands-on demonstration. Tomato seeds and soil provided to participants. No charge and no registration required. Questions? Contact: Ann at 519-514-7027 or aroberts@woolwich.ca.

FRIDAY, MARCH 10

▢ Friday Food at the Elmira Legion. Doors open at 4 p.m., serving at 5:45 p.m. Menu: fish & chips, coleslaw and dessert, $12/plate. Join us in the lounge. All welcome.

MONDAY, MARCH 20

▢ Woolwich Gardeners March Speaker, 7 p.m. at St. James Lutheran Church, Elmira (Wyatt St. entrance.) Speaker Jocelyn Molyneux "Feed Your Soil. Fuel Your Family. Fight Climate Change" Free-will donation for non-members. Open to the public! "Lug a Mug" for refreshments and treats.

SATURDAY, MARCH 25

▢ Are solar panels right for your home? Talk to an Engineer, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the St. Jacobs Fire Station. Talk to engineer Scott Cooper of Merlyn Power. Learn about: technology update/systems options, economics and incentive, ownership experience, maintenance. Contact Ann Roberts, 519 514-7027 aroberts@woolwich.ca.

Mini-Word

If your company would like to sponsor this page, please contact The Observer at 519-669-5790 ext.104 Or email donna@woolwichobserver.com

Sudoku EASY

Crossword

ACROSS

1. Wine from Tuscany

8. Trailing plant

15. Camper's light

16. Seek to reinstate Nazi ideology

17. Kind of pressure involved in water filtration

18. Book dealing with agriculture

19. Hack

20. Olive stuffing

22. Hypereosinophilic syndrome

23. 1989 Peace Nobelist

27. Female hormone

Sudoku HARD

31. Last place

32. Heartfelt

34. Affirmative vote

35. Effective

38. Carpentry tool

40. Kind of shot

41. Chewy candy

44. Fixes indelibly

48. Causes delirium

50. Fleshy mushroom

51. Malaysian Currency

53. Bit

54. About 26,000 square miles of Asia

57. Otalgia

59. Resembling lace

60. Caught wind of

61. Passionate

62. Canopies

DOWN

1. Bell-shaped hat

2. ###

3. Deepest

4. Above

5. After expenses

6. Excursion

7. Occurrence

8. A rival

9. Repeat actions

10. Baby's footwear

11. Open, in a way

12. What "it" plays

13. Action film staple

14. Order to attack, with "on"

21. Like some sharks

24. "C'est la vie"

25. ___ Day

26. "___ we having fun yet?"

28. Call, as a game

29. Big galoot

30. Containing or resembling grit

33. Most insufficient in quantity

35. Final month of the Jewish calendar

36. "___ Gang" 37. G8 member 38. "Go on ..." 39. Anguish 42. Kind of magazine 43. Come to light

Cold stick

Infernal

it

Banded stone

Figure out the mystery letters to complete this eight-letter word reading clockwise or counterclockwise.

EMSF: The committee’s goal is to maintain the tradition and historical significance of the festival, says new chair

around. They are building a new festival headquarters, the pancake venue will be moved to the Lions Hall, the sugar bush tour loading will be at Elmira District Secondary School, a new updated website is live and new stairs have been built for loading people onto people movers.

Jessop says they moved the pancake venue to Lions Hall to ease congestion in the main downtown area, to allow people to eat their pancakes in an actual building and to attract more people to the events that will be taking place at the centre’s

parking lot like the pancake-flipping contest, food trucks, entertainment and possibly a kids’ area.

Meyer said they’re making the changes this year to work out any kinks in anticipation of the 60th anniversary of the festival.

Since its inception, funds raised have gone to support local non-profits and charitable causes.

Jessop says the main beneficiary is Elmira District Community Living but dozens of other non-profits are also supported. He says since the event began in 1965, the festival has donated

about $1.7 million.

“I think what we want to do and what our committee’s goal is, is to be able to preserve that tradition and the historical significance of the festival, but be able to make it something that continues to be a family friendly event, and something that people are excited to do,” said Jessop.

“I think that we want to keep it to still maintain and look like the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival in the future. And I think that hopefully that’ll be when we have our 75th anniversary or 100th anniversary that we can still preserve some of those things.”

MAYO CLINIC: Problem won’t go away overnight

with menopause, pregnancy or birth control pills.

So, what can you do if you have dry, yet watery eyes? The first step is to visit your eye doctor and discuss your symptoms. Many people fail to mention these issues because they don’t see them as important. Your doctor will work to evaluate your symptoms, and the quality and quantity of your tears.

Once an evaluation is complete, your doctor will design a treatment plan to improve the environment for your eyes and your dry eye disease. This could include using supplements, hot compresses or prescription drops; improving your diet; and controlling your environment with a humidifier. Unfortunately, there’s no magic wand to make dry eye disease instantly better. Your

dry eye disease didn’t occur overnight. It took many months or years to develop, and it’s not going to go away immediately. However, if you follow a treatment plan, and you learn and use new habits, your dry eye disease can improve.