May 5, 2022 by Woolwich Observer

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Elmira, Ontario, Canada | observerxtra.com | Volume 27 | Issue 18

Making Woolwich greener, one sapling at a time

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RPMWB Plenty of opportunity for people to help plant and care for Trees in Woolwich

Leah Gerber Observer Staff

ITS EFFORTS ALREADY BEARING FRUIT, Trees for Woolwich is gearing up for another busy season of community environmental restoration. Trees for Woolwich is a group of volunteers dedicated to increasing the tree cover in the township. That includes planting trees and restoring the area within the Elmira Nature Reserve, as well as planting trees throughout the township. “The plan is to put over 2,100 trees in the nature reserve this year,” said Inga Rinne, chair of Woolwich Healthy Communities and Trees for Woolwich. The Elmira Nature Reserve is 67 acres of land off of South Field Drive in the southeast corner of the town. The acreage is mostly abandoned fields, pasture and wetlands. The site is mainly on floodplain and so is unsuitable for development. Much of the land has been degraded by invasive species. The goal is to restore the land back to how it would have been before being

Arts | 16

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developed for agriculture. The reserve will feature 99.32$ ger 99.42$ ger 99.42$ ger an array of different habitats and forest zones with walking trails so the community can access the ecosystems and learn MORF about them. The purpose is to increase biodiversity, increase the ability of the 99.4to 1$absorb ger land carbon and regulate water, and to serve as a nature destination in Elmira for the community to access. gniK - neCentre. euQ - elbThose uoD - niwT This past winter and fall, An official sod-turning ceremony Monday morning kicked off construction of the new Wellesley Township Recreation taking part included Wellesley rec. director Danny Roth, regional Chair Karen Redman, Wellesley Mayor Joe Nowak, Kitchener-Conestoga volunteers cleared a lot of MPP Mike Harris, capital campaign chair Chris Martin, Cam Ball and Brendon Aiken of Ball Construction, Matthew Delean and Albert invasive species including swolliP noeN Paquette of Architecture 49 and Wellesley CAO MORF diloRik S leLouwagie. eF oobmaB yruxuL Leah Gerber tevuD citehtnyS leeF oobmaB wolliP ydoB phragmites, Manitoba 48041 teS teehS rebiforciM 2703M ’ ’ 2 4 x 8 1 maple and buckthorn. 300FM 99 Approximately 13 acres of 41 99 buckthorn were cleared at 99.45$ ger the site. dradnatS Making it official at the site of the new Wellesley Township Recreation Centre The hosted wolliorganization P Leah Gerber offsetting the cost of the a9tree planting event at the province denied the townto begin this month, said 9 $ last week01 reserve new build. nature ship funding at first, and Danny Roth, director of Observer Staff A community fundend in order to fill the 13 staff thought most of the recreation at the townraising campaign is also acres with native species project would need to be ship. He says the targeted AFTER YEARS OF before the buckthorn can self-funded. Later the prov- underway with a goal of completion date is in the ANTICIPATION, WORK generating $2.5 million. reestablish. Rinne says the ince pledged $16 million. fall of 2023. The project is finally ready to begin on Campaign chair Chris group planted more than A new recreation centre is budgeted to cost $27.2 the new Wellesley TownMartin said the commit1,800 seedlings, and potted ship Recreation Centre. A first gathered attention million. tee is well on its way to 350 more in the nursery, when the poor state of the “It’s been almost three ground-breaking cereMORF meeting that goal. Recent the most done at a single roof at the Wellesley arena years trying to put this mony took place Monday large contributions from event yet. closed the facility. Now, thing together,” said morning at the site, community members and Besides the planting the new recreation centre Mayor Joe Nowak at the located at the corner of businesses have helped events, volunteers are will replace the old arena. event. “There’s been many Queens Bush 99.61$ and ger Hutchithe campaign needed for the nursery, Proceeds from selling the bumps in the road.” son roads. gniK - neeuQ - elbuoD - niwT gniK - neegain uQ - eand lbuoD - niwT → TREES 7 → REC COMPLEX 5 old arena lot will go toward Nowak noted how the Construction is expected

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Page Three

If it matters to you. It matters to us. News tips are always welcome. Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com Online: observerxtra.com/tips

Funding for hospitals

From the archives

Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris this week announced new funding for hospitals in the region. Cambridge Memorial Hospital will receive an additional $6.8 million, an increase of 5.6%; St. Mary’s General Hospital will receive an additional $8.1 million, up 5.5%; and Grand River Hospital will receive an additional $7.5 million, up 3%.

At a CPAC meeting May 3, Crompton officials outlined a new plan that they believe may accelerate the cleanup of contaminants coming off company boundaries. However, to accomplish this, the company has to effectively allow some chemical runoff to flow offsite, a move requiring relaxation of an MOE control order placed on the property. From the May 8, 2004 edition of The Observer

EDSS students making connections with long-term care residents Leah Gerber

the high school. Barnswallow Place executive director Catherine Schalk says staff and especially residents are excited about the launch of the new intergenerational program that will facilitate regular interaction between the residents and EDSS students. Schalk says more events

Observer Staff

STUDENTS FROM ELMIRA DISTRICT SECONDARY School paid a visit to residents at Barnswallow Place, bearing gift baskets last week in a kickoff event for a new partnership between the long-term care home and

are planned such as breakfasts, group discussions about current events and one-on-one visiting for the spring and fall, in anticipation the home will be able to host the students indoors. Rukhsana Popat, a social worker at Barnswallow Place and a leader of the intergenerational

program, says staff and the facility’s family council have been trying to connect with the high school for about two years. “It was something that I always thought that I would like to do is to bridge that gap between the young and the old,” Popat said. “Both groups would

benefit because the young can learn so much from our older generation – their perspective on life and the wisdom and life experiences and everything that they’ve been through. “The younger people keep us current as we get older; you see life through their eyes.” The residents in the

home are very excited, said Popat, adding that one of the residents who had worked as a music teacher is already requesting to be paired with a student who plays music. The breakthrough to make contact with the school and get the project off the ground came when → STUDENTS 5

Wellesley approves historical plaques for three sites Leah Gerber Observer Staff

Avril Tanner is Woolwich’s community emergency management coordinator.

Bill Atwood

Officials stress the need to be prepared for all types of emergencies Bill Atwood

ment coordinator for Woolwich Township, said the importance of being prepared for anything has increased in recent years. “More and more we are starting to see that with climate change we have other things that occur. Emergencies can happen at any time and with-

Observer Staff

IN CONJUNCTION WITH NATIONAL EMERGENCY Preparedness week, local officials are reminding residents to “be prepared for anything.” Avril Tanner, community emergency manage-

out warning. Just being prepared actually makes it safe for the whole community,” she said. Part of being prepared includes having an emergency plan which can look very different for each individual or family depending on the circumstances, Tanner noted.

“If you have any family members with special needs that you need to consider, or family pets – what you will do with your pets? Things like where you are going to store copies of important documentation.” The government of → BE PREPARED 28

THREE NEW HISTORICAL PLAQUES WILL soon be installed to celebrate Wellesley Township history. Nancy Maitland of the Wellesley Township Heritage and Historical Society received Wellesley council approval last week for three historical plaque installations in the township. The first is a plaque commemorating the site of the Emancipation Day picnic held on Aug. 1, 1863 on Temperance Island, near Hawkesville. This picnic was held to celebrate the abolishment of slavery in the British Empire, including British North America on Aug. 1, 1834. The plaque will be located on the walking trail near the corner of Broadway Street and Temperance Road in Hawkesville. The picnic gathered 2,500 people together in Hawkesville including Black residents of the Queen’s Bush Settlement

in Wellesley Township and Southern Peel, as well as other residents and officials from Waterloo County. After a sermon was preached, a band led the gathering to Temperance Island where a large picnic was served. The second plaque is to bring attention to the history of settler activity on the land where the Heidelberg Meadows subdivision sits. The plaque will emphasize the Hahn Family, a founding family of Heidelberg. Five generations of the Hahn family farmed the land where the subdivision is located, which was developed in 1976. Maitland asked for $8,200 dollars from the Koehler Estate Fund to install and hold an unveiling ceremony for two new historical plaques. Her request was unanimously approved. A set of two plaques will also be installed at the Dewar Bridge, or bridge number 0005, on Chalmers-Forrest Road between Deborah Glaister Line and Streicher Line where the → HERITAGE 5

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COMMUNITY NEWS | 5

Kings defeat Stratford to advance, now face Cambridge in conference finals Steve Kannon Observer Staff

THE ELMIRA SUGAR KINGS NOW face Cambridge in the Midwestern Conference finals after defeating the Stratford Warriors in six games. The Kings closed out the second-round series April 29 with a 5-2 win in Stratford. That followed a 3-1 victory two nights earlier at home. “It was a very tight-checking series. There wasn’t a whole lot of offense either way, so it was one of those series where you had to be patient and not get off track too much,” said head coach Rob Collins. “Those are the kinds of lows that can hurt you – it seemed like every game was a race to be the first team that got to two goals.” With the series tied going into game five, Stratford poured it on early, but managed just one goal through 40 minutes before Elmira responded. Neither team scored in the opening period. It was Stratford that drew first blood, breaking the 0-0 deadlock with less than three minutes in the frame that saw the visitors outshoot the Kings 13-7. The Kings finally replied at 8:55 of the third with a goal from Mason Eurig, his first of the playoffs, assisted by Brody Leblanc and Luke Eurig. It would remain a 1-1 game for another 10 minutes before Leblanc put Elmira ahead, with help from Kurtis Goodwin and Chris Black. Luke Eurig’s empty-net goal at 19:48, assisted by Adam Grein, ensured the win. Final shots were 31-25 in favour of Stratford, with Elmira netminder Dan Botelho stopping 30 to pick up the win. Last Friday night’s game-six clash in Stratford was another close one, with the Kings coming on strong in the third to take the game and the series. Again, it was Stratford that struck first, going up 1-0 just over five minutes in. Elmira’s Nathaniel Mott tied it up on the power play at 17:43, assisted by Grein

and Leblanc. Special teams would be a factor the rest of the way through. After a scoreless second period, it was all about Elmira in the third. Mott scored another power-play goal at 6:15 to put the Kings ahead for good. Assists went to Leblanc and Grein. Just over two minutes later, Jayden Lammel made it 3-1 with a powerplay marker of his own, this one unassisted. Stratford got one back with less than three minutes to play, but empty-netters from Grein and Jackson Heron (Mason Eurig, Mott) in the final minute put the game well out of reach at 5-2. “It it was 3-1 for a long time, they scored late to make it 3-2, but it never felt like it was out of our control, which certainly helps with the gray hair count,” Collins laughed. At the final buzzer, shots were 30-23 in favour of the visiting Kings, with 21 saves securing another win for Botelho. Collins said he wasn’t expecting the Warriors would be suffering a letdown after game five, looking to stave off elimination on Friday. “I felt like they pushed the way we anticipated they’d push it, fighting for their lives. We didn’t feel it quite as much because we were ready for it. To our guys’ credit, they went in with a really focused attitude and took care of business, so to speak. So I don’t think it was as much of a letdown as it was a really focused effort on our part,” he said of the Kings pressing on to take the series. The Kings are now facing the Cambridge Redhawks in the third round. Collins expects a tough battle, saying the players know they need to keep doing what’s made them successful all season. “I’m expecting everyone’s best game. An energy-fueled series is what I expect,” he said, noting that if the Kings give them any breaks, the Redhawks will capitalize on them. “That’s a good team in Cambridge. It’ll be a real challenge – they’re a formidable opponent.”

The series started Wednesday night in Elmira – results weren’t known before press time – with the action shifting to Cambridge Saturday before returning to the WMC Sunday night. Just after the Kings wrapped up their second-round win, the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League this week announced the Midwestern Conference award winners for the 2021-22 season. Goaltenders Daniel Botelho and Matthew Lunghi took home the Twin Cities Trophies Award for best team goaltending. The duo was impressive as they split the action fairly evenly. Botelho had 26 appearances this season with a 19-6-1-0 record recording a 2.13 GAA and .917 SV%, including three shutouts. Lunghi posted a 14-4-0-0 record with a 1.98 GAA & .920 SV%, recording four shutouts of his own. Kurtis Goodwin took home the Joe Veroni Memorial Award for defensive forward of the year. He’s been consistent: in the last three seasons, he has had 26, 26 and 28 points. He contributes in all facets of the game with three powerplay goals, a shorthanded goal, and two game-winners on his stat line this season. The R.J. Noble Memorial Award as rookie of the year went to Jaxson Murray. The 2003-born forward was only a point off the team lead in 2021-22 with 22 goals and 28 assists for 50 points. The Waterloo native made an impact in his first full season in the GOJHL and was named to the top prospects roster this season. Six of the Sugar Kings games this season were finished by a Murray game-winner. Collins received the Kearnsy Memorial Award as coach of the year. The Midwestern Conference’s top team this season had 35 wins and 72 total points. Collins and his staff kept their squad motivated all season long and finished fourth league-wide in goal differential with a plus-67.

REC COMPLEX: Fundraising effort is moving along →FROM 1

maintain momentum. Martin said the fundraising campaign had two main goals: first to garner support and communicate with the community about the features and design, and then to raise funds. Martin said he is excited

about how many of the features in the centre will work together. “Everything is interconnected, it’s a hub,” he said. He gave examples of the youth centre and the gymnasium, the fitness centre and the walking track, and the outdoor

spaces. “I’m incredibly proud of our community, what we’ve designed,” he added. “It’s going to be transformational for the community,” said Nowak. “I think we’re all looking forward to the ribbon-cutting ceremony.”

EDSS students Caroline Cannon and Emily Morden visit with residents of Barnswallow Place Apr. 29 during the launch of a new program to bring together seniors and high school students. Bill Atwood

STUDENTS: Spanning the generational divide →FROM 3

one student at the high school, Tyler Brezynski, decided to write some conversation-starter letters for residents at Barnswallow Place for his leadership class. The class was encouraged to explore opportunities for community engagement during the pandemic, Popat said. She delivered Brezynski’s letters to some residents in the home, and they wrote back.

Since then, Brezynski has joined the family council at Barnswallow Place, and encouraged his leadership class teacher and other students to get involved with launching a pen pal program with the home. The gift basket exchange was the launch of the program. Students fundraised for the gift baskets themselves. The Barnswallow staff members said that they are looking forward to

seeing the positive impact this program will have on residents. “So many of our residents are very fortunate,” said Popat. “They have families coming in on a regular basis. But I think the ones with families that are far away or families that are busy and are not able to come in, I think those are the residents that can really benefit from these relationships.”

HERITAGE: Putting estate fund to its intended use →FROM 3

road crosses a tributary of the Nith River. The Dewar Bridge is one of the earliest and more ornate surviving examples of a rigid frame bridge in Wellesley Township, said Maitland. The bridge is slated to be rehabilitated, and the contractor will cover the cost of the plaque installation. “I thought that was

a really innovative and generous thing that the engineering firm included in the contract when it went out to tender,” said Maitland during the township council meeting. Township chief administrative officer Rik Louwagie asked if this withdrawal would cut into the Koehler Estate Fund’s invested monies. Maitland answered that the

money would come from the fund’s uninvested portion, which grows from the interest earned from investments, and currently sits at approximately $49,000. The fund was donated to the township in 2007 from the estate of Jack Edgar Koehler, and is to be used for Wellesley Township historical purposes.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

6 | COMMUNITY NEWS

ↆ P O L I C E

Waterloo Regional Police launch improved resource for victims of intimate partner violence, with new website content

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Waterloo Regional Police recently launched an improved intimate partner violence (IPV) webpage in an effort to deliver critical information to those who need it as quickly as possible. In 2021, the Police Service received 6,145 intimate partner violence calls for service and laid 3,597 charges. That is nearly 17 calls per day or one every 1.4 hours, the

police said in a release. The new webpage, www.wrps.on.ca/ipv, provides information on: • how to seek shelter, • tips for staying safe and creating a safety plan, • the dangers of strangulation, • how to make a police report, • how to get assistance if you do not want to make a police report.

Intimate partner violence continues to be a significant issue in Waterloo Region and is one of the top 10 calls for service, police report. “Knowing how to protect yourself and your family from intimate partner violence is essential. We hope our new webpage will provide victims with critical information that will enhance their safety and their ability to seek help

and support,” said Staff Sgt. Jamie Brosseau of the Intimate Partner Violence Unit at WRPS. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing intimate partner violence, police advise you to seek help. Need help now? Contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service or Women’s Crisis Services of Waterloo Region, or 911 in an emergency.

APRIL 27 7:07 AM | Police received

a report of property damage at a business located on Weber Street North in Woolwich Township. The gas tank of a vehicle located on the property had been drilled through and fuel was trickling into a container beside the vehicle. The estimated cost to replace the tank is $2,000. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call police or Crime Stoppers.

4:05 PM | Waterloo

Regional Police arrested a 33-year-old Kitchener man following a robbery in St. Jacobs. Police had responded to a call at a store in the area of Weber Street North and Farmers Market Road. A male entered the business, placed merchandise into a cart and left without making any attempt to pay for the items. When a staff member attempted to intervene, the male brandished a firearm and fled the area in a waiting vehicle. Officers were able to locate and arrest the man in Kitchener. The firearm, which was determined to be an imitation, was also recovered by investigators. The suspect was charged with ‘robbery with a firearm,’ ‘possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose’ and ‘possession of stolen goods under $5,000.’ He was held in police custody for a bail hearing.

APRIL 28 7:50 AM | Perth County

OPP are investigating after another vehicle was reported stolen from a residence in the Township of Perth East. In this case, police responded after the victim realized their Dodge RAM was stolen overnight from their residence located on Road 129 in Perth East. The victim reported that the vehicle

Emergency crews responded May 2 to a collision at the St. Jacobs roundabout.

was locked. The truck is a 2008 White Dodge RAM 2500, single cab pickup truck with black 22-inch aftermarket rims, 33-inch off-road tires. The value of the stolen pickup is estimated to be $23,000. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this or any incident is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or online at www.opp.ca/ reporting. Should you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.P3tips. com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

2:00 PM | A driver was

charged after a collision in Perth East that resulted in three people being transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Perth County OPP responded to a two-vehicle collision on Road 129 and Line 67, in the Township of Perth East. As a result, a 74-year-old Milverton resident was charged with ‘fail to yield to traffic on through highway.’ The accused was issued a Provincial Notice for the offence.

3:39 PM | Waterloo

Regional Police received a report of an assault at

Leah Gerber

a business on Benjamin Road in Woolwich Township. Prior to police arrival, an employee and customer at the business engaged in a verbal argument that resulted in the customer pushing the employee. The employee did not wish to proceed with any charges and police warned the customer with respect to assault.

over. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene on foot. Anyone who witnessed the collision, or has video or dash-cam footage of the incident, who has not already spoken with investigators, is asked to call police at 519-5709777 extension 6399 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

5:00 PM | Waterloo Regional Police are investigating after graffiti was observed on the playground at Wellesley Community Centre on Catherine Street. An unknown individual used a marker to write racial statements on the playground. The damage is believed to have occurred between April 24 and April 28. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-570-9777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477.

5:00 AM | Wellington

APRIL 29 2:00 AM Emergency

services responded to the area of Hopewell Creek Road and Ebycrest Road in Woolwich Township following a single-vehicle collision. A Buick sedan travelling west on Hopewell Creek Road allegedly lost control on a curve and left the roadway, striking hydro pole guy lines and rolling

County OPP received a report of a single- vehicle collision on Wellington Road 7 north of Elora. Officers were advised that a silver hatchback had left the roadway and entered the ditch. Guelph-Wellington Paramedics and officers arrived on scene. The driver was transported to a local hospital as a precaution.As a result of the investigation, a 29-year-old Guelph man was charged with ‘personation with intent,’ ‘resist peace officer,’ ‘possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 (two counts),’ ‘failure to comply with release order (five counts),’ ‘drive while under suspension,’ ‘careless driving’ and ‘possession of a schedule I substance.’ The accused is scheduled to appear in the Ontario

Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

ↆ P O L I C E Court of Justice - Guelph, at a later date.

APRIL 30 12:10 PM | Police received a report of an unlocked vehicle being entered earlier that day in the area of Hopewell Creek Road in Woolwich Township. The vehicle, which was undamaged, was parked in a laneway on the property. Nothing was taken from the vehicle. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call police or Crime Stoppers. 5:40 PM | Police

responded to a two-vehicle collision on Arthur Street South near Listowel Road in Elmira. A tractor-trailer parked on the shoulder of Arthur Street South was struck by a grey Hyundai travelling west on the same route. The driver of the Hyundai was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. As a result of the investigation, a 22-year-old Elmira man was charged with ‘careless driving.’

9:45 PM | Emergency

services responded to a house fire on Bridge Street in New Hamburg. The fire on the front porch roof was extinguished by Wilmot firefighters. The fire was deemed not to be suspicious and there were no physical injuries reported.

MAY 1 2:00 AM | P o l i c e

COMMUNITY NEWS | 7

R E P O R T received a report of from an individual who believed they had heard a gunshot in the area of Arthur Street South and Wyatt Street East in Elmira. Police spoke with others in the area who indicated they had not heard anything. Police searched the area and did not locate any evidence of a weapon being fired. If anyone has information about this incident, please contact police or Crime Stoppers.

MAY 2 11:06 AM | The Perth

County OPP has seen a rash of thefts lately, including a number of trailers that have been stolen. They’re currently investigating another theft of a utility trailer, and need the help of the public in identifying a person of interest. In the latest incident, police were called to an address on Line 29, in the Township of Perth East, where a 2021 Duratrail utility trailer was stolen. The trailer is valued at approximately $13,500. An unknown vehicle attended the property, and a person cut the lock, and fled the scene with the trailer. A person of interest in this investigation is described as: Caucasian male, middleaged, thin build, wearing: black hat, white shirt with jacket/shirt over top, and khaki pants. The vehicle involved is described as an older model white Ford F150. Police are hoping the public can assist in identifying the man. Anyone with

information regarding this or any incident is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-3101122 or online at www.opp. ca/reporting. Should you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.P3tips.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

MAY 3 3:59 AM | Waterloo Regional Police received a theft from motor vehicle report on St. Charles Street East in Maryhill. An unknown suspect entered two vehicles parked in a driveway and stole personal property. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-5709777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. 4:44 AM | Another report was received from St. Charles Street East. An unknown suspect attempted to gain entry to a vehicle parked in a drive. No entry was gained and nothing was reported taken.

5:19 AM | A busy morn-

ing in the neighbourhood was capped with a third report as an unknown suspect attempted to gain entry to a vehicle parked in a drive. No entry was gained and nothing was reported taken. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 519-5709777 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Trees for Woolwich’s Inga Rinne and Mark Schwarz at the Elmira Nature Reserve.

Leah Gerber

TREES: Group is looking to plant 5,000 per year →FROM 1

and ongoing tree care and invasive species removal. Mark Schwarz is co-owner of Earthscape, a landscaping and playground construction company based in Wallenstein. He is also a volunteer with Trees for Woolwich, and a main designer of the Elmira Nature Reserve ecosystem restoration project. “We’ve found that planting the trees is only 20 per cent of the work,” said Schwarz, noting the rest of the work is invasive species removal, tree care and management, watering the trees and nursery work. Volunteers who wish to help with any of this work are greatly appreciated, said Schwarz and Rinne. Trees for Woolwich is a community group dedicated to increasing the percentage of tree cover

in Woolwich. The group formed in 2011 with the goal to plant 23,000 trees, one for every person in the township. Since then some 34,662 trees have been planted. While 30 per cent tree cover is considered environmentally ideal, Rinne is not sure how realistic that goal is for the entire township considering Woolwich is primarily agricultural. Currently Woolwich sits at about 14 per cent tree cover. The goal now is to plant 5,000 trees each year in the township. There are plenty of upcoming community planting opportunities this season as well, says Rinne. On May 7, the group will be hosting a roadside planting on Kramp Road south of Breslau. May 14, the group will be hosting another plant-

ing at the Elmira Nature Reserve. The group will be planting two allées, or two laneways lined on both sides with trees, at the reserve. One will be of pine trees and another of disease-resistant elms. Funds for the allée plantings were provided by Wallenstein Feed Mill, said Rinne. Interested volunteers can register for the events with Anne Roberts at the township of Woolwich by mailing aroberts@woolwich.ca or calling 519-5147027. Anyone interested in helping with ongoing support for Trees for Woolwich can contact Inga Rinne at inga@rinne.ca. More information about planting and other events with Trees for Woolwich can be found on their Facebook page or online at healthywoolwich.org.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022 | 8

Opinion

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

Verbatim

The Monitor

“New technology in vehicles these days can make a ride more convenient, or even safer, but the combination of all that tech together can lead to even more distraction.”

Support plummets when costs are factored into new federal programs: 69% of Canadians support $10-a-day daycare when there is no tax change, but support drops to just 36% when the program is paid for by an increase in the GST. For universal pharmacare, support drops to 40% from 79%, while support for dental care drops to 42% from 72%.

CAA vice-president Ian Jack on a new poll that finds 79% of Canadian drivers admit to being distracted while driving.

Connect: observerxtra.com/staff

Leger poll for the Fraser Institute

OBSERVER EDITORIAL

Bringing issue of sexual assault out into the light

ay is Sexual Assault Awareness Month in Canada. Recognizing that there’s still a tendency to blame victims, the “No One Asks For It” campaign asks Canadians to wear purple on May 6 to show support to survivors of sexual violence. The month is also an opportunity to raise awareness about the devastating impact of such crimes, to better understand its deep cultural and historical roots, to support victims and survivors and to work together to stop the violence. In Canada, one in three women and one in six men will experience sexual violence in their lifetime. Women are three times more likely to be stalked and four times more likely to be a victim of intimate partner violence. Indigenous women and girls are even more likely to be victims of assault as are other racialized, minority and vulnerable communities. Sexual assault is defined as any unwanted sexual activity including harassment, threats or physical force. The COVID-19 crisis has made the issue even more of a concern, as the prevalence of all gender-based violence, including domestic violence and sexual assault, has increased during the pandemic. Since the vast majority of sexual assault is not reported to police, both police-reported data and self-reported data from social surveys help to establish its scope. Women self-reported 553,000 sexual assaults in 2014, for instance, according to Statistics Canada. Data from 2016 and 2017 show nine of every 10 victims of police-reported sexual assault were female (89 per cent). In that vein, experts note that survivors need other options for support outside the criminal justice system, as less than five per cent report to the police in Canada. In this area, the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region (SASCWR) notes May is a time to raise awareness about the issue, its prevalence and the continuing tendency to blame victims. That extends to people who should know better, with the organization saying police officers and judges internalize the concept of victim blaming, as evidenced by the many perpetrators that get off with lighter sentences. Beyond the horrendous impact on victims, dealing with the aftermath of sexual assault costs Canadians billions of dollars every year. Dealing with sexual assault and related offenses cost the Canadian economy an estimated $4.8 billion in a 2009 study. The key to ending such violence is a shift in our culture. That’s the impetus for awareness campaigns, efforts to support survivors, breaking the silence around sexual violence and providing education about consent, gender equality and healthy relationships. Those efforts can be seen in the likes of Woolwich Community Services family violence prevention program. Sexual assault is not caused by monsters lurking in bushes or dark alleys, it is perpetrated by people we know in our own communities – in more than half of sexual assaults, the perpetrator was known to the victim Every person deserves to live free from the fear of sexual assault, and to live in communities where all public and private spaces, including workplaces, schools, and homes, support their safety. The sexual assault crisis has gone on far too long, and we all have a responsibility to put an end to it. We must strengthen our systems of accountability so that assaulters know their behaviour will not be tolerated; remove the shame and stigma around it so that survivors are empowered to seek support; and speak out against it so that beliefs and attitudes promoting rape culture are removed from our society. We all have an obligation to do everything we can to raise awareness of sexual assault, support victims and survivors and hold offenders accountable. In the spirit of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let’s be mindful of the situation, as bringing it out into the light can only help.

ANALYSIS OF CURRENT WORLD EVENTS

China paying the price of dictator’s claim of infallibility

ven the Pope claims to be infallible only on matters of faith and doctrine. On the chance of rain or the speed of a racehorse he will freely admit that he is just as fallible as you and me. Whereas secular dictators, and especially ones who are building a personality cult, are implicitly claiming to be infallible about everything. This is quite a burden, although it helps that dictators can deny things have gone wrong, and punish anybody who says otherwise. Nevertheless, sooner or later people are bound to notice that things really have gone wrong. That is President Xi Jinping’s main problem at the moment, but it is also China’s. For more than two years now, Xi has loudly proclaimed that China’s zero-COVID policy has been a brilliant success that demonstrates the superiority of the Chinese system and of his own leadership. And for a while there, the evidence was on his side. The COVID death toll in China is still under 6,000, while COVID fatalities in the United States, with only a quarter of China’s population, are nearing the million mark. However, China achieved this miracle only by almost completely

GWYNNE DYER

Global Outlook on World Affairs

shutting its borders and imposing draconian shutdowns on entire cities at the first sign of an infection. That succeeded for a while, just as it did in Australia and New Zealand, two geographically isolated countries that followed essentially the same policy. But their governments knew that this could not be a permanent policy, and as soon as the great majority of their populations were fully vaccinated they began to release the restrictions. Happily, by then the Omicron variant was taking over, making COVID even more infectious but far less lethal, especially for vaccinated people. Xi Jinping seems to have missed that memo, and has pressed on with the zero-COVID policy even at great cost to the Chinese economy and in the face of growing resentment among ordinary Chinese people. At the moment, 340 million people, around one-quarter of the population, are under full or partial lockdown in 46 different cities. The 25 million residents of Shanghai, China’s commercial capital, are in their

fifth week of lockdown. Guangzhou, the southern industrial hub, has ordered the mass testing of 5.6 million people after the detection of one suspected COVID case. Even Beijing is teetering on the brink of lockdown, with schools already closed and people panic-buying provisions for what could be another long confinement to their homes. Given the huge infection rate of Omicron – in both the United States and the United Kingdom around 70 per cent of the population have had COVID at least once – this policy cannot logically have a long-term future. The ceaseless lockdowns are hitting China so hard that second-quarter growth in an economy that used to boast of 10-plus per cent growth rates is forecast to be only 1.8 per cent. This means not only unemployment and potential unrest, but Chinese customers elsewhere shifting away from dependence on supply chains originating in China. The shift could be permanent. And yet Xi Jinping perseveres with the policy. His regime has not even speeded up vaccinations in China, although fewer than half the over 60s have →DYER 10

Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

OPINION | 9

The passing of Guy Lafleur sparks memories of glory days past

he regular season having ended, the NHL playoffs got underway this week. The Montreal Canadiens will be watching from the golf course, having suffered the ignominy of finishing dead last. For Habs fans, however, the focus right now is on Guy Lafleur, the last of the great icons of Les Glorieux who succumbed to lung cancer last week at the age of 70. His was the mantle accepted from Jean Béliveau, who retired the season before Lafleur joined the Habs. Béliveau had become the French-speaking superstar in the wake of the first such cultural icon, Maurice “Rocket” Richard. Just as it was cancer that claimed Lafleur, Béliveau died in 2014 at the age of 83 after battling throat cancer, while Richard died in 2000 due to abdominal cancer, age 78. In writing about Lafleur’s death, the Montreal Gazette drew on the dean of hockey coverage, the late Red Fisher who wrote about the Habs for 57 years before his death in 2018 at the age of 91. “Lafleur was born to wear the CH. What could be better? A poor boy from a pulp-and-paper town (Thurso, Que.) continuing the line of pre-eminent French-Canadian superstars. He was right for the times, bringing as much glory to the sweater as any of the great players before him or since,” Fisher wrote. “Like Richard before him, when the Canadiens and Lafleur won, Quebec won. When Lafleur scored goals in a way only he could, Quebec scored. When Lafleur and the Canadiens brought home Stanley Cups five times in the spring, all of Quebec

STEVE KANNON

Editor's Point of View

hitched a ride on their float as it inched along Ste. Catherine St.” That captures the element of hockey as a religion that permeates Montreal and Quebec to this day, albeit with less fervour than in decades past. That the team has fallen on hard times since it won its 24th Stanley Cup in 1993 hasn’t helped matters. Hockey today has much more competition for entertainment dollars. And it’s much less accessible given the increasing cost, micromanaged training schedules and the dearth of backyard rinks that fostered the likes of Howie Morentz, Gordie Howe and Wayne Gretzky. Still, it is playoff time.

STEVE KANNON

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In a history of rivalry between the Habs and the Leafs, the battle has largely been reduced to regular-season skirmishes and limited bragging rights about qualifying for the playoffs before falling short. For fans of either team, before long the conversation boils down to a few crucial digits: 1967, the last time the Leafs won the Stanley Cup; 24, the number of cups won by Montreal; 13 by Toronto. The long drought is a sore spot for Leaf fans. The Habs have won the cup 10 times since 1967; their win in ’93 was the last time Lord Stanley’s prize was home in Canada where it belongs. Despite their problems, the Leafs engender resilient fan support – through all of the horrible years prior to the current incarnation, fans have remained faithful year

after year. Still, there is a large contingent of Canadiens fans in this neck of the woods, if hats, jackets and T-shirts are any indication. I’ve met plenty of fans who love the Habs without having ever set a foot in the belle province. Some were drawn to the team’s glories, others because dad was a fan. Some disliked the Leafs and sought another team to support. And some, like me, are transplants from the city that really is the center of the hockey world. Born and raised in Montreal, I come by my obsession naturally. As a kid in the 1970s, the legendary players and dynasty years were the constant soundtrack to my life (Montreal took six cups in the decade, including four straight from 1976-79). There was Béliveau,

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Here in the heart of the Leaf Nation, there’s both a buzz following a strong year and a certain dread of the first-round curse that appears to have afflicted the team. That was seen just last year when the pandemic-tainted season ultimately saw the Leafs put out in the first round by the not-very-good Habs, who would make an unlikely berth in the finals before falling to a legitimate powerhouse, the Tampa Bay Lightning (positive words about a southern expansion team is enough to make a Canadian hockey fan somewhat green, envy included). Those are fighting words. Well, at least the basis of an exchange of words. When it comes to hockey, the wife of even the most closed-mouthed guy would be amazed at how the thoughts come rolling out of his mouth.

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Lafleur, Steve Shutt, Yvan Cournoyer, Jacques Lemaire, Henri Richard (the pocket rocket, big brother Maurice having retired before my time), Frank Mahovlich and brother Peter, Bob Gainey, Larry Robinson, Serge Savard, Guy Lapointe, Ken Dryden … the list of Hall of Fame players goes on. All the ink spilled over Lafleur in the past week took me back to a time when there were two hockey seasons: ice and road, with plenty of overlaps between the two. Whether incurring yet-another touch of frostbite on the neighbourhood rink or reacting to the universal cry of “Car!!,” I played every game like it was a Montreal playoff drive – and there were plenty of those back then. If I close my eyes and think of those days, I can hear Danny Gallivan’s distinctive cadence calling the game. He, not Foster Hewitt, is the voice of hockey. He of the “cannonading blast,” “stepping gingerly over the blue line” and “Savardian spinarama.” And alongside him is Dick Irvin, an encyclopedia of hockey knowledge. With the Montreal Canadiens, even the announcers are legends. How many nights as a very young boy did I fall asleep to the rapid-fire commentary brought on by the feats of the Flying Frenchmen? Perhaps if it had been Mozart instead, I would have spent more time at the symphony rather than at the shrine, the Montreal Forum. The passage of time can’t help but be unkind to our childhood heroes, but it can’t touch their legendary accomplishments or our memories of them.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

10 | O P I N I O N

Plenty of places to stick a fishing thermometer

L Cinco de Mayo celebrations in the US is largely a product of beer and tequila company advertising started in the 1980s to celebrate MexicanAmerican culture. In Mexico, May 5 commemorates their 1862 victory over the French Empire and observed through ceremonial parades or battle re-enactments. Fargo, North Dakota hosts the largest two day Cinco de Mayo festival in the US attracting 40,000 partygoers, celebrity chefs and the world’s best mariachi bands. Guacamole is the centre of attention of any Mexican meal but on May 5, US consumers eat 80 million pounds of avocados. ↆ LAST WEEK: Truth: Richard Vallieres was found guilty of fraud, trafficking in stolen goods and theft after 9,571 barrels of maple syrup worth $18 million. Truth: Coca-Cola creates many specialty flavoured sodas including Quebec Maple using real maple syrup from La Belle Province. Lie: Blossom Maple Farms is the ficticious farm and homestead of Cheryl Blossom and her family in the TV series Riverdale. The FQAP controls about 70% of the worlds maple syrup supply and has been coined The Canadian Maple Syrup Cartel. There was a maple syrup shortage in 2021. You can play online by reading any online post at www.observerxtra. com. Vote for the lie and be notified if you are correct immediately.

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the fish you are targeting, so you can focus your efforts there. Come to think of it, that’s not all a fishing thermometer does. If you have a fishing thermometer you can use it to accurately determine how long you would last in the water if you wore your leakiest set of waders. And also, if your fertility would be affected. The importance of either cannot be underestimated. Mostly, however, I like carrying around my fishing thermometer because it makes me feel like I am taking a more scientific approach towards fishing. And, since they are so discreet, other anglers won’t make as much fun of me as they did that time I wore my white lab coat and carried a Bunsen burner.

fishing thermometers are enclosed in a sturdier case too, a quality that would be more reassuring on your home thermometer too – depending on where the reading is being taken from. In any case, I plan to use my fishing thermometer frequently this year, especially in backwoods lakes. I don’t expect this to increase my catch a lot. But I imagine using one will keep me more informed about what water depths the fish prefer throughout the season. Trout, of course, are a cold-water species. So, if I can determine where the cold water is I will be more efficient with my time on the water and know I am on the right track. Then, I’ll be able to fish calmly, knowing full well I am in the zone. On the other hand, when my thermometer shows me I wasted time where water temperatures are too high, I imagine I’ll be seeing red.

DYER: Chinese leader disregarding all in effort to become dictator for life →FROM 8

even had one booster shot. Nothing must be allowed to suggest that the zeroCOVID policy is failing. Why? Because an absolute dictator must appear infallible. Xi has boasted so much of the ‘success’ of his victory over COVID, made it so much his own signature achievement, that no doubt can be admitted – especially at a time when he is planning to make his dictator-for-

life status official. This autumn marks the end of the two five-year terms that Xi would have been permitted under the Communist Party’s post-Mao rules, which were designed precisely to thwart other would-be absolute dictators from gaining powers. His plan was to be elected to a rule-breaking third term at the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party next October or Novem-

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ber, and even a year ago he looked like a shoo-in. Xi has purged and/or jailed a great many senior officials on corruption charges, and those who were still in office seemed thoroughly cowed. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of senior party people who think that one-man rule is always a mistake. Xi’s complicity with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and his continuing COVID blunder also count against him with

many important people, and the Party Congress, normally a choreographed, almost ritual event, could theoretically turn against him. You’d still be unwise to bet against Xi’s chances of a third term (and as many more as his lifespan allows), but he himself is now running scared. Which probably means that there will be no change in the current, crazy COVID policy at least until the end of the year.

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Admittedly, you could find the surface water temperature, fish and even the thermocline with almost any modern fish finder – and I own one of those too. But fishing electronics can break down or run out of power. And they don’t tell you temperatures below surface level. Plus they are often not portable enough to carry into backwoods lakes. A fishing thermometer is lightweight and fits in your front pocket, which come in handy on a canoe trip. Plus, the only thing that can render one useless is forgetting your reading glasses at home – or on top of your head. I suppose, you are wondering what makes a fishing thermometer different from the ones you already have at home. Primarily, it is where you put them. But also, with a fishing thermometer, you never have to mutter, “Say ahhh” before dropping it into the lake. Oh, and

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ast month I bought myself a fishing thermometer. Full disclosure: I am not proud of this. But there comes a time in every angler’s life when he or she has run out of fun and practical fishing-related things to sneak into the house. Once that time arrives, all that is left to buy is a good fishing thermometer. Which is not so bad if you know how to use them. Many anglers buy fishing thermometers under the mistaken impression that you only use them to prove to your spouse that you have a bad case of fishing fever. Of course, that’s ridiculous. You can do that with a hot cup of tea and a normal thermometer. The only thing a fishing thermometer really allows you to do is measure water temperatures at various depths for as far down as you can lower it on a cord. This information allows you to determine the depth which has the preferred temperatures for

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022 | 11

Business

Leading the way. Shining a light on local enterprise, stoking the economic engines. Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com New Business: observerxtra.com/enterprise

Home sales, prices down

Given some credit

In April, the average sale price for all residential properties in the area was $907,205, a 19.6% increase over April 2021 and a 5.5% decrease compared to March 2022. The average price of a detached home was $1,060,992, an 18% increase from April 2021 and a decrease 6.4%t compared to March 2022, reports the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors.

Frank Chisholm, director of brand and marketing for Kindred Credit Union, has been selected as one of two recipients for the Gary Gillam Award for 2022. The award recognizes individuals within the Ontario and British Columbia credit union system who have made meaningful accomplishments in social responsibility and sustainability in credit unions.

Calls for improved building code standards are all about going green Woolwich looks for changes to Ontario Building Code, while real estate association wants government to introduce new programs to boost energy efficiency in existing housing stock

Farmers’ mental health worsens

Steve Kannon

OWEN ROBERTS

Observer Staff

Food For Thought

Woolwich is among those calling for higher standards for energy efficiency in Ontario homes.

Approaches to Housing and Climate Change report tackles GHG emissions in the resale housing market by providing more supports to homeowners in reducing their energy use and saving costs on their monthly bills. The report also proposes a plan to help address a major climate threat looming over Ontario homeowners: flooding. “Climate change is a major threat to our way of life and the residential housing sector has to do its part to lower emissions and mitigate risks,” said Tim Hudak, the organi-

zation’s CEO, in a release. “Through these recommendations, Ontario can help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint, safeguard their homes against climate change, and keep more money in their pockets.” Some of those same concerns about higher standards are shared by community-oriented groups, as well. Kevin Thomason of the Grand River Environmental Network spoke in favour of the Woolwich council motion calling for action from the province. “The good news is that

we already have many of the solutions that we require. We know what needs to be done, but it isn’t happening fast enough. We also know that despite all the global treaties and national programs that many of the most impactful climate actions we can undertake are here at the local level. We can design our communities to be more sustainable complete and compact,” he told councillors at the meeting. “Many of these muchneeded actions fall into the broad heading of green development standards,

and here in Waterloo Region there is a new citizen group called GreenWR being created to see how we can encourage and accelerate the adoption of green development standards by the Region of Waterloo and our area municipalities.” Proponents say improvements will save homeowners money today and down the road while helping to reduce the region’s carbon footprint. For existing housing stock, upgrades are the way to go, says the OREA report. It identi→ STANDARDS 13

he picture of Canadian farmers’ beleaguered mental health just got clearer…and it’s not a pretty sight. A study released Monday by University of Guelph researchers shows that compared to a survey conducted five years ago, farmers’ mental health is worse than the general population in almost every outcome investigated. They say traits they examined, including exhaustion and cynicism (two of the three components of burnout), stress, anxiety, depression, suicide ideation and lower resilience, speak of a grim reality. One out of every four farmers surveyed said their life was not worth living, wish they were dead or thought of taking their own life in the last 12 months. “It’s a very troubling situation,” says population medicine Prof. Andria Jones-Bitton, who conducted the study with Dr. Briana Hagen and Master of Science student Rochelle Thompson.“We need and want Canadian farmers to be stronger than ever, especially as we face huge worldwide food production questions. Unfortunately, from a mental health perspective, → ROBERTS 21

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WITH GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS FROM buildings accounting for 45 per cent of the total in Waterloo Region, Woolwich is pushing greater energy efficiency to be mandated in an update of the Ontario Building Code. Council last month passed a motion calling for increasing the minimum energy performance standards for new buildings, saying that’s an important step in reaching emission targets. The provincial target is a 30 per cent reduction by 2030, while Woolwich adopted greenhouse gas reduction targets of 80 per cent below 2012 levels by 2050 and endorsed in principle a 50 per cent reduction by the 2030 interim target. “We’re way behind the eight ball and we need to start moving or we’re not going to make these targets. This is something that we can do as a council – we can ask the province to speed up those timelines on changing the Ontario Building Code. To me it just makes common sense,” said Coun. Patrick Merlihan at an April 11 meeting. The need for higher standards is addressed in a new report from the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) Written in partnership with StrategyCorp, the Accelerating Ontario’s Green Future: New

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

12 | B U S I N E S S

Wellesley citizens raising concerns about fossil fuels in the design of the new rec. centre Leah Gerber Observer Staff

FORM 2 EXPROPRIATIONS ACT NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL TO EXPROPRIATE LAND

IN THE MATTER OF an application by THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF WATERLOO for approval to expropriate land, which is required for improvements at the intersection of Line 86 (Regional Road No. 86) and Floradale Road (Regional Road No. 10), Woolwich Township, in The Regional Municipality of Waterloo. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that application has been made for approval to expropriate the land described as follows: Fee Simple Partial Taking: 1. Part of Lot 104, German Company Tract, being Part 1 on 58R-21350, (Part of PIN 22211-0422 (LT)), Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo (1525 Floradale Road / 300 Line 86, Woolwich); 2. Part Lot 105, German Company Tract, being Parts 3, 4 & 6 on 58R-21350, (Part of PIN 22233-0839 (LT)), Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo (275 Church Street West, Woolwich); 3. Part of Lot 112, German Company Tract, being Part 7 on 58R-21350, (Part of PIN 22159-0006 (LT)), Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo (southwest quadrant of the intersection of Line 86 and Floradale Road, Woolwich); 4. Part of Lot 113, German Company Tract, being Part 8 on 58R-21350, (Part of PIN 22211-0411 (LT)), Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo (6805 Line 86, Woolwich); being in the Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo

Permanent Easement - Drainage: The right and easement, being an easement in gross, for itself, its successors and assigns and anyone authorized by it, in perpetuity to, at any time enter upon the following properties for purposes of constructing, installing, maintaining, inspecting, altering, moving, replacing, reconstructing, enlarging and repairing, as applicable, pipes, catch basins, swales, ditches and other works and appurtenances thereto for the purpose of the transfer or transmission and management of storm water, both above and below the ground and for every such purpose and for all purposes necessary or incidental to the exercise of the rights hereby created, through, over, upon, along and across the lands, and for all such purposes together with the free, unimpeded and unobstructed access for itself, its successors and assigns, servants, agents, contractors, workers and anyone authorized by it, and vehicles, supplies and equipment at all times and for all purposes and things necessary for or incidental to the exercise and enjoyment of the right and easement: 5. Part Lot 105, German Company Tract, being Parts 2 & 5 on 58R-21350, (Part of PIN 22233-0839 (LT)), Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo (275 Church Street West, Woolwich); being in the Township of Woolwich, Regional Municipality of Waterloo Any owner of lands in respect of which notice is given who desires an inquiry into whether the taking of such land is fair, sound and reasonably necessary in the achievement of the objectives of the expropriating authority shall so notify the approving authority in writing, (a) in the case of a registered owner, served Appendix “A” personally or by registered mail within thirty days after the registered owner is served with the notice, or, when the registered owner is served by publication, within thirty days after the first publication of the notice; (b) in the case of an owner who is not a registered owner, within thirty days after the first publication of the notice. The approving authority is: The Council of The Regional Municipality of Waterloo c/o Regional Solicitor, Legal Services 150 Frederick Street, 8th Floor, Kitchener, Ontario N2G 4J3 THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF Note: General location only – not to scale. See WATERLOO (EXPROPRIATING AUTHORITY) Reference Plan 58R-21350 for detail Jeff Schelling, *****For clarity, please see the full details of this notice available on our Public Notices webpage at Regional Solicitor This notice first published on the 3rd day of May, 2022.

www.regionofwaterloo.ca/Modules/News/ Search.aspx?feedId=d190b4c1d9d7-4cb8-bc36-f10bb4423ef7****

THERE ARE PLENTY OF GREEN features planned for the new Wellesley Township Recreation Centre, but some were hoping for more in a project that this week broke ground. “Our township has missed an amazing opportunity to show bold leadership and have fallen short on our responsibility and commitment to reducing our emissions during a climate emergency,” said Wellesley resident Brenda Leis at last week’s council meeting. Leis took aim at council’s previous decision to go forward with natural gas-powered heating units for the project rather than a geothermal system or other carbon-neutral alternative. Leis and the other delegates argue the decision to reject carbon-neutral forms of heating was done too quickly, with not enough research. They pointed out township staff had committed to performing a cost- and environmental-benefits analysis for all operations in the Wellesley Township 2019-2025 energy conservation and demand management plan. The plan states that, “The investment for these types of measures [carbon neutral measures], can be significantly greater than conservation initiatives and therefore, should be considered on a case-bycase basis through a cost and environmental benefits analysis. During last week’s council meeting, the delegates asked council if a cost and environmental benefits analysis had been completed for the geothermal heating option. “The efforts that were put in place to look at the geothermal option were provided to us from our

mechanical engineer at the time and the cost analysis that was done was a $2.7 to $2.915 million option right now, and a 20-plus year payback, and that was the information that was given to council at that time,” said Danny Roth, Wellesley’s director of recreation. “A full cost analysis was not done in the interest of the timelines that we had to make these decisions on.” In a later interview, Roth said that the recreation centre’s design does include multiple carbon-reducing features including in-floor heating for the arena that is captured from the ice refrigeration room rather than ceiling-mounted heaters, an insulation value higher than code, solar panels on the roof, EV charging station, and air source heat pumps. The rooftop natural gas-powered heating units are intended to be a backup source of heat when the temperature dips below minus-five degrees Celsius, he said. “There’s a lot that’s been done, and there’s no question more can be done in the future,” he said. Roth said the project was awarded to Ball Construction in December. After hearing from community members, staff asked Ball Construction about installing geothermal in February, and the mechanical engineer with the company responded with a geothermal estimate in early March. “At the end of the day, the decision has to be made on what you’re getting for your dollar. And the geothermal options that were looked at were upwards of $3 million addition with a 20- to 30-year payback. And when you get into 20- or 30-year payback on equipment, you’re looking at replacing that equipment already at that point in time. So there’s

really, truly not a payback.” Leis and the other delegates say they are supportive and excited for the recreation centre and feel it will bring the community together. However, they feel the township has not demonstrated thorough research of the matter, and should take more time to design a truly carbon neutral centre, saying that in 2022 features like extra insulation should be considered default. At last week’s meeting, Coun. Shelley Wagner made a motion to reconsider the geothermal decision. Ultimately, the motion did not receive enough votes from the rest of the council members and it did not pass. “If we’re going to lay out $3 million for this, something’s got to go. We’re going to have to cut something else,” said Coun. Carl Smit in the meeting. “We’re already at our limit. We all know the numbers. It was supposed to be $15 million of financing, now we’re way, way over that.” When asked about council’s objection to the extra cost of geothermal, resident Shauna Leis noted the township had declared a climate emergency. “When a true emergency is declared, we can find the finances to do the right thing. We’ve declared one, but I don’t think we’re acting like it,” she said. Leis said her research shows other jurisdictions have retrofitted their operations to geothermal heating because of an identified cost-savings. Given the timeline the township set for itself, squeezing in more changes wouldn’t be easy, said Roth. “At some point in time, we had to move on with this contract, and the equipment had to be ordered and that’s where we’re at right now.”

Elmira Farmers Market is opening

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Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

B U S I N E S S | 13

STANDARDS: Woolwich asks province to speed up timeline on efficiency improvements to Ontario Building Code → FROM 11

fies key goals to support homeowners in making building envelope improvements to their properties. Envelope improvements (upgrades to outer barriers supporting energy efficiency, from windows to walls) have been shown to be one of the best ways to reduce the consumption of natural gas – a major driver of GHG emissions from housing. “On-bill financing is a great way to provide homeowners with upfront help to do a green renovation, which they can then pay off using the savings on their energy bills,” said Hudak. “The planet gets lower GHG emissions from homes, jobs get created in the renovation

the national code “Through the years, the code cycles have introduced new building code requirements to improve

seen in the past and this would be another example of a significant change,” he said of the township’s call for higher standards.

energy efficiency. The building code at the provincial level is changing more frequently at the moment than we’ve ever

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022 | 16

Arts

Read a local best seller every week. Local stories that inspire. Email: newsroom@woolwichobserver.com Tips: observerxtra.com/tips

Pop-up art in St. Jacobs

Music to the Max

The Art District Gallery, an artist collective that runs pop-up exhibitions across Waterloo Region, will be at the Log Cabin at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market May through July. Exhibits will coincide with market days, Thursdays and Saturdays, adding Tuesdays in mid-June.

The live music continues this weekend at Maxwell’s Waterloo. Elliott Brood takes to the stage Friday night, with special guests Royal Castles. On Saturday, it’s My Son the Hurricane, a 14-piece brasshop funk ensemble. www.maxwellswaterloo.com

www.artdistrictgallery.org

How to get a head in the art world Kitchener man’s carvings reflect his sense of humour, something he shares with users of the Mill Race Trail Bill Atwood Observer Staff

IF YOU’RE TAKING A WALK along the Mill Race Trail in St. Jacobs you might come across the work of Bill Manson, a woodcarver who has taken it upon himself to hide the caricatures he makes along the path in a weekly effort to bring joy to others. “I like to say I tried to put a smile on faces – human and wooden – and I hope I succeed,” said Manson, who lives in Kitchener. The carvings range from Olaf from the movie Frozen to hockey players with missing teeth. “I was going to retire soon, so I was thinking I need a hobby. I was up in Kincardine and I saw these little carvings – it was a pipe band, actually. There were about 20 of them, and I thought that they’re brilliant,” he explained of the origins of his handiwork. Manson, who previously did watercolours as a hobby, is unsure of where his artistic talent came from. Before retirement he worked for Bell installing phones. “I was never a great artist at school. I wish I had started carving when I was a teenager but of course you’re in high jinks then,” said Manson. “I’m rather more to that artistic side. I think the watercolours, they helped me paint because when I carve I’m not good enough to not carve a head. I think you’ll see all the mistakes. You can paint around the mistakes, but my knowledge of watercolours

Bill Manson with some of his creations, which he began making after he retired.

certainly helps me do my paint jobs because there’s nothing worse than a nice carving with a hellish paint job on it,” he said.

While he said he doesn’t know how he comes up with the ideas for what to carve, Manson draws a least some inspiration

Bill Atwood

from real-life events: one of the largest carvings (not currently hidden on the trail) depicts a CNN reporter hanging to a light

post while covering a hurricane. “I always thought it was ridiculous watching TV when there’s a hurricane

[and CNN is there] so this is what I came up with. It’s just stupid things that pop in my head when I try to make some,” he said. Manson has resisted the idea of selling his creations, however. “When I do something, it takes me so long and people want to buy them and I say “I want 50 bucks” and they say ‘get away with you.’ It takes me five hours to do them – people don’t appreciate that,” he said. “Most people don’t realize the effort that goes into making a piece of art. But they want it for nothing. That’s why I don’t do any shows or anything like that, and that’s why I don’t sell many,” he added. While he hopes to cheer up kids, he has elicited response from parents. “I’m getting some nice notes from the parents saying ‘my boy can’t wait for Tuesday to find out what you’re going to be hiding,’” he said. Some of his carvings do have a practical use. He has also made pens and shot glasses. “Some of them have a use for them but not most of them. Some of them are just purely to put a smile on somebody’s face,” he said. It is with that end goal that he tries to put some fun into his carvings. “There’s supposed to be a lot of humour in my carvings. I consider myself a bit humorous – not all people think so,” he laughed. “In this life you either laugh or you cry. You’re better off laughing,” Manson added.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022 | 17

Classifieds

Seven days. One paper. A bestseller every week.

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.

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.

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

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

Help Wanted

Advertising

Help Wanted

For Sale

SEASONAL HELP WANTED Lorentz Farms Ltd.

75-TON SHOP PRESS. BRAND NEW IN THE crate. Air over hydraulic operation or standard hand pump. Contact: 519-616-4730 for price.

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

BUFFET & HUTCH I N C L U D I N G contents. $300 o.b.o. 519-725-3512.

Mill operators and night shift loader tractor driver/general labourer needed. Some equipment operation required.

Help Wanted

DINING ROOM SET, 8 CHAIRS, BUFFET, lighted display Case, table expands 66"-112", Excellent $1100.00. 519-884-3495 LAWN FERTILIZER AND LAWN SEED Call George Haffner Tr u c k i n g , 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045.

Full Time and/ or Part Time Position On farm by Gadshill, ON

Help Wanted

Farm equipment operator and general farm labourer; operating firewood processer, also truck driver for firewood business. Some shop work included. Being mechanically minded would be an asset, with minimum AZ restricted driver’s license. Can train for license. Living quarters available. Call James Gerber 519-274-1984 Collin Gerber 519-274-1236 No Sunday calls please

ROXTON BEDROOM, D R E S S ER, D E S K, hutch, bed, chair shelf $500.00 excellent. 519-884-3495.

Farm Equipment WANTED - 2 OR 4 ROW CORN PLANTER with various plates. Also rotary tiller. Must be in good working condition. 519-699-5867.

Help Wanted Woodworking Craftsman Join a young, dynamic team that keeps growing! Woodland Horizon Ltd designs, manufacturers, finishes and installs high quality custom cabinetry and solid wood stairs. Our shop and showroom are located in the town of Drayton. At Woodland, one of our core values is Respect. Respect for our team members and respect for our customers. Continuous improvement is also a big part of who we are. We are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to make our team members jobs easier and more efficient.

A/Z Flatbed Driver

As a growing Landscape Supply and Trucking company, we are looking to add an additional A/Z driver to our team. $24.00-$27.00 per hour

We are looking for a full time, permanent

Kitchen Cabinet Installer to join our team. In this position you would be working with one of our install teams installing high quality custom kitchens and stairs. In this position you would be reporting to our Install manager.

Required skills • Respectful • Ability to read blueprints • Cabinet building experience will be an asset • Cabinet install experience will be an asset • Motivated and enthusiastic • Courteous and friendly • Dependable • No post secondary education required This position is full time, with benefits after probationary period. If you are interested in joining a vibrant and growing company, please send your resume to laverne@woodlandhorizon.com or call 519.638.5961 to set up an interview. Only those receiving an interview will be contacted. Thank you.

Main Responsibilities • 8-10 hour shifts Monday to Friday (Daytime only). Overtime is paid • Local deliveries and pickups of product. • Self loading and unloading using a Moffat (willing to train) • Keeping paperwork in order • Proper circle checks every morning • Load security • • • • •

Qualifications Valid A/Z License with good driving record Able to communicate written and verbally Dependable and Reliable Flatbed experience an asset Forklift / Moffat experience an asset but will train Interested applicants please submit resumes in person to 30 Dumart place Kitchener Or by email to information@rmadams.ca

Residential:

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Commercial:

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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.

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

Word ads and Auctions Continue on page 19

Help Wanted

Auction

1 ACRE COUNTRY PROPERTY FOR SALE Through our customized tender process, at 7739 – 12th Line RR#2 Alma (3 miles northeast of Drayton, 1 mile Southwest of Parker), For the Shirley Franklin Estate

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1 ACRE, MORE or less, on a paved road, backing onto farmland. Large concrete driveway, garden shed and storage shed in the northwest corner. HOUSE (BUILT IN 1996) – Frame, vinyl sided bungalow, attached 4 season sunroom, garage and deck. House has steel roof (2018), central air, 2 bedrooms, large kitchen/dining room, sitting room, bathroom and laundry room. Basement has 2 bedrooms, large rec-room, partially finished bathroom, fruit cellar and separate access to the garage. Basement needs flooring & trim. Heat is provided with a forced air propane furnace (2018). Estimated main floor living space – 1550 sq. ft. Adjoining septic system. Drilled well. 200 amp hydro service. NOTE – A solid home in a good location. Minutes to Drayton. Call Gerber Auctions with questions and/or to view. See photos at www.gerberauctions.net

AUCTIONEERS:

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

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

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Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

ↆ R E A L

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

E SAT E

SELLING? CALL US FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION. Sue From

Alli Bauman

226-750-9332

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suefrom17@gmail.com

NEW LISTING

$950,000 WINTERBOURNE -This charming Quebec-style, custom-built, one-owner home greets you with its beautiful antique wrought iron fence and picturesque curb appeal. Located in a quiet village and nestled amongst mature trees, this property is extremely private and overlooks open fields. Quality built, this home offers a master bedroom retreat with skylights, walk-in closet, an oversized shower, gas fireplace and a private balcony, 2 other bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, original hardwood floors, main floor laundry, main floor wood stove, finished rec-room, wired for a generator, and is meticulously maintained from top to bottom. Situated on a large 100ft x 168ft lot, you can relax and fully appreciate the stunning sunrises in the morning or enjoy some time with family at the fire pit! The outbuildings consist of a spacious 18ft x 26ft workshop with a second floor perfect for gatherings or hobbies, a woodshed, and another shed (ideal for kayaks but can be used for anything). Lots of room to park in the triple wide driveway and insulated double car garage that’s equipped with hydro and gas heat. Get outside and take advantage of the nearby walking trails, snowmobile trails, and steps to the Grand River. This property is a 10-minute drive to KW and a 10-minute drive to Elmira. What a dream come true, don’t wait to see this wonderful home that really has it all!!!

Word ads and Auctions Continued from on page 17

Trades & Services

Wanted

C U S T O M L AW N OVERSEEDING AND BUYING ALL POCKET lawn seeding. Call OR WRIST WATCHES 519-503-5641. , working or not. Omega I.W.C. Bretling, Rolex, Personals Tudor, Patek, Universal, Hamilton, Ball, Howard NOVENA MAY THE etc, especially inter- SACRED HEART OF ested in vintage, gold & Jesus be adored, silver jewellery all coins glorified, loved and & bank notes, all group preserved throughout of 7 paintings, scrap the world, now and gold & sliver toys, mili- forever amen. Sacred tary items. Call Terry heart of Jesus pray for @ 242-6900 or galla- us. St. Jude helper of more@golden.net, fair the hopeless, pray for honest prices. Confi- us. St. Jude worker of dentiality assured. miracles, pray for us. Have mask, will travel. LML

PROFESSIONAL BIKE MECHANIC ON STAFF SEE US FOR

Window & Screen

REPAIRS 22 Church St. W., Elmira

519-669-5537 STORE HOURS: MON-SAT 8-6, SUN 12-4

ↆ

$899,000

Coming Events

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

$549,000

SOLD

HESSON - If you have been looking for a country setting, this might just be the property for you! Located in the quaint village of Hessen, backing onto farmland, and only 30 minutes to Waterloo and 15 minutes to Listowel. This home is bigger than it appears with 2175 sq feet, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and room for your family to grow. Walk-in the front door to a welcoming foyer with french doors opening up into a sitting space, which is open to the dining room with a bay window. The Kitchen is open to the rest of the house with loads of counter space, a centre island, and all appliances included. The new front windows offer natural light as well as privacy due to the tinted glass. As you make your way into the living room, you will notice exposed wood beams, a perfect spot for a fireplace, and new patio doors leading out to the deck in the side yard. Down the hall is a main floor bedroom with a 3-piece ensuite bathroom with an entrance into the back room, which has a closet, entrance to the garage, and another new patio door out to the partially fenced back yard. The upstairs boasts 2 bedrooms, one of which is quite large and could easily be split into 2 or 3 rooms as well as a 5-piece bathroom. There is parking for 6 cars in the driveway and one more in the 29 ft x 17 ft insulated garage, which has a drive-through to the back yard, allowing easy access for your tractor. A forced air propane furnace was installed in 2014, new spray foam insulation and siding done in 2016. With more and more people wanting an in-law suite, this home has the perfect setup for just that! Don't miss out on this rare find!

Auction

MAPLETON HISTORICAL SOCIETY Annual Meeting with presentation Memories of Conestoga Dam by Bob Stanners. Friday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. PMD arena hall in Drayton. Info on our Facebook page WellingtonMapletonHistoricalSociety or email lizregsamis@ gmail.com

Word ads Continue on page 21

GENERAL SERVICES

BIKE SALES & REPAIRS

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

519-504-6247

emilyminiellyrealestate@gmail.com

ELMIRA - This family home in Elmira is waiting for you! 42 Oakcliffe offers so much curb appeal with a covered front porch and oversized garage! Step into a large front entryway that flows naturally into the open concept main floor. Get excited about the dream kitchen boasting ample cabinetry, a wrap-around breakfast bar, tile & ceramic backsplash, tile flooring, and an open design. Cozy up next to the corner fireplace in your living room or take a walk out the large sliding glass doors, right off your dinette, to enjoy the fenced backyard with a stamped concrete patio. The convenient main floor laundry and mudroom offer extra storage and access to the garage. The upper-level family room with vaulted ceiling steals the show with large windows offering so much natural light. The third floor continues with two good-sized bedrooms and a generous-sized master bedroom featuring a large walk-in closet and a 4-piece en-suite bathroom. Need more space? The basement is large and awaits your unique design and finishing touches! This is the perfect family-friendly neighbourhood and close to all amenities including schools, shopping, parks, and the rec center. Don’t wait to see this wonderful property!

ↆ LOCAL SERVICES ↆ

519-669-5426

Emily Minielly

LIVE AUCTION SALE

Of Tractors, machinery, boat, miscellaneous farm related items, & a few antiques, to be held at 6140 Line 86 Woolwich Twp. (1 mile East of West Montrose, 3 miles east of Elmira), for Alice and the Late James Culp, on

SATURDAY, , MAY 14TH @ 10 A.M.

MACHINERY: CIH 695, 2wd, CIH 2250 loader, 6ft. bucket, bucket mount bale spear, pallet and manure forks (folks sell separate), 2 sets of remotes, 2030 hours, 1 owner – a good low hour tractor! JD AR, painted, new battery, good rubber. Farmall H, gas, wheel weights, good rubber. McKee 14ft. “S” tine 3ph cultivator with wings and harrows. Alloway Rowmaster 4 row, 3ph scuffler. 3 furrow “Ace” bottom trail plow. 3 furrow 3ph plow. AC 8ft. disc with modified 3ph. 3 older side rakes. 15 & 19ft. flat rack wagons. Old wagon with wooden spooked wheels. Running gear. NH 513 manure spreader with top beater. 9ft. drum roller packer. Little Giant 34ft. enclosed elevator (untested). MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS: Viking 11ft.

Poultry Pest Management Thorncreek Farms

Pest control with residual built in Poultry Barn Pest Solutions

519-504-2698 Serving KW and surrounding area

GENERAL SERVICES

aluminum boat with Ted Williams 7.5hp motor (motor stored inside, untested). Danuser 3ph post hole auger (as is). 3ph wood splitter, 2ft. stroke. 3ph circle saw (pto). 4in. X 16ft. auger. Rollaire self-propelled lawn roller & MTD 18/46 lawn tractor, both not running. Fortress 2000 - 3 wheel electric scooter, not running. Old McCulloch chain saws, as found. 2 round hay feeders. 8 sections of harrows with 2 poles. Miller Thunderbolt AC/DC welder. Decaster 130 AC welder. Radial arm saw. Chop saw. Assorted tires. Farm gates. Welding table. Plastic water troughs. Animal traps. Wheel barrows. Hand & power tools. Scrap metal including some machinery. Wooden posts, majority 4 to 8ft. (cut hydro poles). Collectibles including steel implement wheels, wooden yoke, old lanterns, cant hooks, corner brace hand drill, etc, plus 2 wagonloads of farm related items.

BROKERAGE

R.W. THUR REAL ESTATE LTD. Oﬃce: 519-669-2772 | Cell: 519-741-6231 45 Arthur St. S., Elmira | www.thurrealestate.com

BRAD MARTIN Broker of Record, MVA Residential

35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE YOU CAN RELY ON! 10 Poffenroth Path, Elmira

SOLD CALL FOR YOUR

FREE MARKET EVALUATION

DOREEN MARTIN SALES REPRESENTATIVE I ndependently O wned and Operated

519-579-4110 www.yourremaxteam.ca

NEW LISTING

14 Eagle Drive Elmira

NOTE – See www.gerberauctions.net for photos.

Get your

FREE

quote now!

TERMS – Cash, debit or cheque with I.D. 5% buyer’s premium capped at $500.00 per item. SALE ORDER – wagonloads, miscellaneous

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

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

 Grub Control  Sod Webworm Control

Prepayment Discounts for Lawn Care

10% OFF

items, machinery & tractors. Lunch booth.

PROPRIETOR – Alice Culp 519-669-2165 AUCTIONEERS:

Gerber Auctions Ltd. 519-699-4451

2827 Hutchison Rd., RR#1 Millbank (Crosshill)

$725,000 Single detached back split home in desirable subdivision.

This well-built 3 bedroom 2 bath home has four levels of living space! Bright dining & living room with large picture window. Well-designed kitchen w lots of cabinetry & workspace. The lower level has an abundance of natural light featuring a wood fireplace & bar. The basement level is unfinished. The kids will enjoy this space as a games area or hang out and chill. Huge private deck & lovely backyard for you to enjoy this summer! Steps away from parks & hiking/biking trails. Conveniently located to schools, shopping & all amenities. A wonderful opportunity to buy in a great neighbourhood! Call for your personal tour. MLS

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

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

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

Community Information Page NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Monday, May 30, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

Regarding Official Plan Amendment Application 3/2022 and Zone Change Application 6/2022 Nomadiq Elmira Towns Limited – 15 Barnswallow Drive, Elmira 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 519-669-6040 if you have any questions. Take Notice that in accordance with the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990, as amended, the Township of Woolwich has received complete applications for a proposed Official Plan Amendment and Zone Change for lands owned by Nomadiq Elmira Towns Limited and located at 15 Barnswallow Drive, Elmira, in the Township of Woolwich. This notice summarizes the details of these applications and includes a location map. 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 Sections 17 and 34 of the Planning Act, R.S.O., 1990 to consider the following Official Plan Amendment and Zone Change applications. 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.

Property Description The 0.6 ha vacant property has frontage on Barnswallow Drive and Church Street West and is identified as 15 Barnswallow Drive, Elmira (see Location Map). The property is designated Residential and Ancillary Land Use in the Township’s Official Plan and is zoned Convenience Commercial (C-4A) with Site Specific zoning (Section 26.1.281). The site specific zoning provides for additional setback requirements, building height and façade features for a proposed development.

Applications for Official Plan and Zoning Amendment Patterson Planning Consultants Inc. on behalf of the property owners, Nomadiq Elmira Towns Limited, are proposing to amend the Township’s Official Plan and Zoning By-law to facilitate development of the property with a mixed use project consisting of a two storey building at the intersection of Church Street West and Barnswallow Drive that will have commercial uses on the ground floor and six (6) residential units on the second floor. The remainder of the property is proposed to be developed with forty-five (45) residential dwelling units in the form of stacked townhouses together with associated amenity, landscape and parking areas. To facilitate this proposal the following amendments are being requested: Official Plan Amendment An Official Plan amendment to permit an increased residential density from 60 to 81 units per hectare. The proposed total residential complement of 51 units equates to a net residential density of 81 units per hectare Zoning Amendment To change the zoning from C-4A with site specific regulations to Residential – Multiple / Design Guidelines / Mixed Use (R-7B) with site specific regulations which would facilitate the development of multiple and mixed-used buildings and in particular to permit stand alone residential land uses in the form of stacked townhouses. The site specific amendment would include, but not be limited to, minimum requirements for setbacks, floor area, landscape areas, amenity areas and parking.

APPEAL RIGHTS TAKE NOTICE that if a person or public body would otherwise have an ability to appeal the decision of the Council of the Township of Woolwich to the Ontario Land 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 or the proposed Official Plan Amendment is adopted 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 the public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of Woolwich before the by-law

P.O. Box 158

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

Phone:

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

After Hours Emergency:

519-575-4400 www.woolwich.ca

is passed or the proposed Official Plan Amendment is adopted, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

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 Tuesday May 24, 2022. 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 asmyth@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 Thursday May 19, 2022 (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 Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy 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 and Official Plan Amendment.

MORE INFORMATION Additional information related to these applications can be viewed or obtained as follows: View / Print the information from the Township webpage at www.woolwich.ca - Select Ongoing Planning Items on the home page / select the Zoning and / or Official Plan Amendments folder, select Nomadiq Elmira Towns Limited, 15 Barnswallow Drive, Elmira folder to view the information. 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 5th day of May 2022.

Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

Garage Sales

Word ads Continued from HEIDELBERG TOWNWIDE ANNUAL page 19 Garage Sale Saturday,

Garage Sales GARAGE SALE - SAT. MAY 14, SUN. MAY 15, 6 Apollo Dr. Heidelberg. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Art, pet, household, and sport items, toys and more!

May 14 2022 8 am 12 pm. We are back! Shop the quaint town of Heidelberg for treasures of every kind. For the past 25 years over 80 households have taken part each year, with something for everyone's taste. Rain or shine don't miss out. We will follow guidelines by the Region for health protocols. For more information email us at parksandrec. heidelberg@gmail.com

HUGE HOUSEHOLD SALE. SATURDAY MAY 7th & May 14th 7-3 @ 19 Eagle Drive,Elmira. Miscellaneous kitchen items, glassware,indoor/ outdoor decor, lamps, chairs etc. Great variety. Rain or Shine. FRI. MAY 13TH, 8:30 A.M., SAT. MAY 14TH SAT MAY 14, 8 AM, 6 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. 14 THRUSH CRT, ELMIRA. Florapine Rd. Infant/ Household and decor adult clothing, houseitems, girls toys, cord- hold, chairs, Ford Ranger less mower, garden parts and tires, double tools, much more. mattress and more.

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

ROBERTS: Pandemic made it worse, but there were already underlying problems → FROM 11

that doesn’t appear to be case.” The research revealed that women farmers were experiencing more dire effects than men in every aspect of mental health that was examined. Jones-Bitton saw women with higher scores in the 2015-16 survey too, but she says the differences now seem more pronounced. “I suspect for women farmers, it heavily relates to role conflict whereby women – in addition to working on-farm and potentially off-farm – are responsible for other roles like ‘default parent,’ household operations, and go-to person for support,” she says. “This, in addition to the pressures of farming and the pandemic, places a large burden on women.” The only exception

concerned alcohol use – also troubling, of course – where men had significantly higher scores than women. The research, funded by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, involved nearly 1,200 participants from all commodity groups across Canada, from February to May 2021. At that time, the pandemic had reared up again, and heading into spring, the mood in the farming community was suppressed. The researchers say the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated an already tenuous situation. During that time, mental health problems related to high stress, burnout, anxiety and depression accelerated across all of society, including the farm community. Jones-Bitton’s pioneering

research in this area established Canada as a world leader in understanding farmers’ mental health. She has long advocated for a strong call to action for evidence-based, coordinated research and programming to provide support for farmer mental health and well-being in Canada. She says this study highlights opportunities for stress management training to better support Canadian farmers’ resilience and growth. As well, she says, it also confirms the need to bring together and support professionally trained individuals to develop and deliver mental health programming for agriculture, and work with farming stakeholders and researchers to formally evaluate the programming to ensure safe and effective

mental health treatment and prevention. “The more we learn from research, the more we understand the problems and possible ways to address them,” she says. Jones-Bitton says the research team plans to update the findings every five years. And meanwhile, spring planting once again gets underway, for a highly challenged farming community.

Reach local people at the right time every week. Advertise your professional services to Woolwich, Wellesley and beyond.

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

Community Information Page TOWNSHIP OF WOOLWICH CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE FACILITY The Township of Woolwich has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study (Class EA) for a new consolidated facility to centrally locate the Township’s Operations and Maintenance Staff and equipment. The study will explore the benefits of new and shared facilities for staff and equipment, applying expected growth rates to these facilities to look at the long term viability of any alternatives reviewed. The results of this study are expected to provide the most efficient and cost effective solution to house the Operations and Maintenance staff and equipment, in one or multiple locations in the Township of Woolwich. This study will follow a comprehensive, sound and open planning process in order to recognize and accommodate all concerns for the alternative solutions to be evaluated. The study will be conducted in accordance with Schedule “B” requirements as outlined in the Municipal Engineers Association “Municipal Class Environmental Assessment,” (October 2000, as amended to 2015). This is an approved process under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. The Class EA process includes public/external agency consultation, an evaluation of alternative solutions and alternative design concepts, an assessment of potential impacts associated with the proposed improvements, and development of measures to mitigate identified impacts. Public, Indigenous and agency consultation with interested parties, including the public, businesses, and technical or regulatory agencies will form an integral part of this Class EA study to identify and address interests within the study area. A public consultation centre will be held during the study to provide an opportunity to meet with the project team, learn about the study, and to share feedback. Upon completion of the study, a Project Report will be prepared and made available for public review and comment.

P.O. Box 158

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

Phone:

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

After Hours Emergency:

519-575-4400 www.woolwich.ca

We want to hear from you. If you have any questions or concerns within the study area, want to know more about the study, or would like to join the project mailing list, please contact the project team: Vince Pugliese, P.Eng. Ryan Tucker, P.Eng. Project Manager, Engineering Supervisor MTE Consultants Inc Township of Woolwich 520 Bingemans Centre Drive 24 Church Street West Kitchener, ON N2B 3X9 Elmira, ON N3B 1M5 519-743-6500 519-669-6048x vpugliese@mte85.com RTucker@woolwich.ca Information will be collected in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, please note all comments will become part of the public record. This Notice first issued April 28, 2022. https://www.woolwich.ca/en/township-services/engineering-public-notices.aspx

Notice of Public Meeting Township of Woolwich

Technical Advisory Group (TAG) Meeting Thursday, May 12, 2022 6:30 p.m. Public Meeting 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 participate in the meeting.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE As in-person meetings are not an option at this time, you can view the meeting by REGISTERING with the Support Specialist on or before 12 noon on Tuesday, May 10th. To register please email lschaefer@woolwich.ca or phone 519-669-1647, ext. 6112. Once you are registered the Support Specialist will forward information on how to connect to the Zoom meeting (i.e. zoom Wi-Fi login or toll-free conference call number).

THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

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

ↆ FA M I LY

A L B U M

Birthday

Happy 80th Birthday

Happy 75th Birthday

May 10th

May 10, 2022

Happy 70th Birthday Dad!!!!

Linda Weber

Irvine Hollinger

Thank you The family of the late Clara Herteis would like to give

sincere appreciation to Julie Orfanidis and all the LHIN PSW’s also Doerbeckers Heritage house for all the wonderful care given our mother and our family.

Obituary

Wishing you a year full of love, happiness & health Mom!

Open House May 7th 2- 4 p.m. at residence. Best wishes only please.

Love you always from Heather, Scott and Barb, Kathy and Mark, your Grandchildren and Great Grandchild.

Love from your family

Birthday

Bauman, Cleason

Love from family and friends

In Memoriam

Passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the age of 84. Dear husband of the late Leona (Martin) Bauman (2021). Loved father of Janice Bauman of Gorrie, Clare Bauman of Elmira, Doreen and Dennis Bowman of Glen Allan, and Theresa Cybulski of Elmira. Lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Derrick (Scotney) Bauman; Jeremy (Erika) Bauman, Josh (Annie) Bauman; Kaitlin (Merle) Metzger; Krystal (Ron) Horst, Jessica (Jeremy) Martin, Janelle (Cleason) Frey, Brandon Bowman, Courtney (Kevin) Bowman; and his 14 greatgrandchildren. Brother of Delila (the late Clayton) Bowman, Mary (Isaac) Metzger, and Almeda (Alvin) Weber. Predeceased by his parents Urias and Hannah Bauman, son Murrel Bauman, grandson Trevor Bauman, and greatgrandson Reuben Bauman, as well as siblings Josiah in infancy, Tilman (Minerva), Luida (Urias) Metzger, and Lucinda (Elam) Brubacher. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, May 4, 2022 from 6 – 8 p.m. and Thursday, May 5, 2022 from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 p.m. at Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira. A family service will be held at 9 a.m. on Friday, May 6, 2022 at Dreisinger Funeral Home, then to Elmira Mennonite Meeting House for burial and service. Phone line will be available by calling 1-647-797-0518, PIN 465-8375 then press #. Thank you for the support given to the family over the past year, and a special thank you to Bayshore Home Health for their compassionate care of Cleason.

Obituary Reist, Salome H.

Happy Birthday Shirley Merlihan!

How can we forget someone who gave us so much to remember!

Passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at the residence of Orvie and Esther Sauder, in her 105th year. Dear mother of Paul and Lydia Ann, Peter and Leona all of Elmira, Esther and Orvie Sauder of Wallenstein. Survived by 13 grandchildren, 57 great-grandchildren, four great-greatgrandchildren, sister Adeline, sisterin-law Minerva, and stepbrother John. Predeceased by her husband Emanuel Reist, daughter Susanna, parents Menno and Amanda Wideman, stepmother Sarah, two brothers, two sisters, two step-sisters, one stepbrother, one grandchild, and one great-grandchild. Visitation was held at the home of Paul Reist, 6681 Line 86, Elmira from 2 - 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 1, 2022, and from 3-6 p.m. on Monday, May 2, 2022. Family service took place at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 then to Elmira Mennonite Meeting House for burial and public service.

Love, Skip, Grace and Stacey

❖ www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

May 5, 2022

Bryan ‘B.J.’ Maher December 19, 1989 – May 5, 2017 Those we love remain with us, For love itself lives on, And cherished memories never fade Because a loved one’s gone. Those we love can never be, More than a thought apart, For as long as there is memory, They’ll live on in our heart.

Love your whole family

100% LOCAL

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Peace of mind in Wellesley Why travel to the Big City? The Futher-Franklin Funeral Home in Wellesley can service all your needs in the beautiful surroundings of the country and at a cost less than the “Big City”.

❖ www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

15,000 Observers are delivered to homes in Woolwich, Wellesley and Waterloo.

Exclusive gear for newspaper readers now available.

Call Donna Rudy at 519-669-5790 ext104 to find out how your business can book this space.

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Futher-Franklin Funeral Home, 1172 Henry Street, Wellesley. 519-656-2880

ↆ P U Z Z L E D

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022 | 23

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

Hospital expansion plans

Harris’ bill passes

Grand River Hospital and St. Mary’s General Hospital welcome the provincial government’s $5 million planning grant in the 2022 budget, money that will allow them to advance to the next phase of planning to build a new joint acute care facility and expand existing facilities in the region.

The Ontario Legislature this week passed Bill 78, An Act to Amend the Police Services Act, 2021. Tabled by MPP for Kitchener-Conestoga Mike Harris in December 2021, Bill 78 amends the Police Services Act to allow municipal and First Nations police services officers across the province to be eligible for the Queen's Commission.

Getting old doesn’t have to be scary Woolwich is now registering people for rethinking aging workshop, helping people to make plans for the years ahead Leah Gerber Observer Staff

A NEW PROGRAM IS BEING offered by a partnership between To Thrive Together Sustainable Living and the Township of Woolwich. The program aims to help people rethink the assumptions and stereotypes they hold about getting older. Over the duration of the six-week program, participants talk online over Zoom, covering topics that often don’t get talked about, said Jill Simpson, the executive director of To Thrive Together Sustainable Living and a healthy aging specialist. In the early days of the pandemic, Simpson was teaching seniors remotely and hosting online coffee chat sessions. She noticed that many of her clients were becoming troubled and frightened by the images of isolated elders in lockdown. Images such as a senior in isolation at a window were very troubling.

“It was apparent that the images they were seeing in the media were having a really profound effect on their health,” said Simpson. “So we felt we needed to create a program, and we did it as a workshop, to put things in perspective to counteract some of those incredibly negative images and concepts about growing old.” These images in the media reinforced negative stereotypes about getting older that are just not supported by scientific findings, she said. For example, “people believe that inevitably, they’re going to end up in a retirement community or retirement home, assisted living, long term care and die in hospital.” “Only seven per cent of seniors actually end up in long-term care. But I would say 95 per cent believe they will,” said Simpson. She realized there was a need in the community to push back against these negative images and help

people understand they are in control of their own aging process. A pilot seminar ran with the Woolwich Seniors’ Association over late-winter and spring last year in the form of a weekly online coffee session over Zoom. The discussion was aimed at addressing the fears people have about getting older. “Most people aren’t very afraid to die at all,” said Simpson. “They’re concerned about health issues, but their biggest concern is loss of control over their lives and loss of dignity. “Our beliefs about how we are going to grow older profoundly affect our aging trajectory. The stereotypes that are embedded in our brains as children come back to haunt us as adults when we get to the age of the stereotype.” People with a realistic and positive approach to aging have at least a ten percent increase in Marjorie Paleshi is part of the group running the upcoming series on aging.

Submitted

→ AGING WORKSHOP 25

Male menopause: myth or reality? DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My wife is 52 and just beginning menopause. We were talking about the changes she’s been experiencing, and I was wondering if there is such a thing as male menopause. I am 58.

ANSWER: Hormone changes are a natural part of aging. Unlike the more dramatic reproductive hormone plunge that occurs in women during menopause, however, sex

▢ Mayo Clinic

Professional Clinical Health Advice

hormone changes in men occur gradually. The term "male menopause" has been used to describe decreasing testosterone levels related to aging. But aging-related hormone changes in women and men are different. In women, ovula-

tion ends and hormone production plummets during a relatively short period of time. This is known as menopause. In men, production of testosterone and other hormones declines over a period of many years, and the consequences aren't necessarily clear. This gradual decline of testosterone levels is called late-onset hypogonadism, or age-related low testosterone.

A man's testosterone levels decline on average about 1% a year after age 40. But most older men still have testosterone levels within the normal range, with only an estimated 10% to 25% having levels considered to be low. Low testosterone levels in older men often go unnoticed as many men who have low testosterone levels experience no symptoms. In addition,

the signs and symptoms associated with low testosterone aren't specific to low testosterone. They also can be caused by a person's age; medication use; or other conditions, such as having a body mass index of 30 or higher. Testosterone levels can be checked by a blood test, but tests aren't routinely done. That said, if you are experiencing certain signs and symptoms suggestive

of low testosterone, it may be worthwhile to ask your health care provider to check your levels. Some signs and symptoms suggestive of low testosterone include:  Reduced sexual desire and activity.  Decreased spontaneous erections or erectile dysfunction.  Breast discomfort or swelling.  Infertility. → MAYO CLINIC 27

To all the ladies that have played a mother figure role, we are so thankful for your sacrifice. We appreciate your unconditional love and support. You are- truly inspiration. ADeach SPOT NONan PRINTING

Happy Mother’s Day! – Leroy’s Auto Care

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

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

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FRIDAY, MAY 6 ▢ Woolwich Gardeners Plant Donation. We need

donations of perennial plants and other garden related items for our fundraiser. Please bring items to Elmira Home Hardware parking lot (north side) between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Repairs Se Service All Makes & Models

▢ Elora Festival Giant Book Sale Friday until Sunday at the Elora Curling Club on David Street West. Bring a bag and choose from 60,000 gently-read adult and children’s fiction and non-fiction books, games, DVDs, CDs and records. This year’s sale will be on Friday May 6 (5 p.m.-9 p.m.; $5 adult admission), Saturday May 7 (9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; free admission) and Sunday May 8 (9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; free admission). Parking is free. Cash is preferred; a cheque with photo ID and current address may be accepted. We do not accept credit or debit cards.

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▢ Woolwich Gardeners Plant Sale Fundraiser. Peren-

nial Plants and other garden related items for sale. Please come to the north side of Elmira Home Hardware parking lot between 8 a.m. and noon.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11 ▢ Smoked Pork Chop take Out Dinner to benefit Woolwich Counselling Centre and Gale Presbyterian Church. Drive through pick up from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Menu: pork chop, baked potato, vegetable, coleslaw and dessert. Advanced tickets only: $18/ dinner (Deadline to order is May 2.) Contact our office to book your pick up time & tickets 519-6692852 or office@galepresbyterian.com

THURSDAY, MAY 12 ▢ St. Peter's Heidelberg Book Sale for Ukraine Effort, Thursday to Saturday. Used books in great condition for all ages and types of readers. Children’s books, fiction, non fiction, recipe, puzzles, CDs, DVDs, Something for everyone. Sale begins Thursday, May 12 9 a.m.to 4 p.m.; Friday, May 13 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 14 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cash only sale. The more you buy the better the price.

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WEDNESDAY MAY 25 ▢ Seniors Community Dining 12:00 pm, Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood.

▢ Community Care Concepts invites you to join us

for lunch and fellowship. Cost: $12.00. Must pre-register by noon on May 20 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900. This event will adhere to the current provincial regulations that apply on the date of the event.

Woolwich Township Ward 1 Councillor

How can I help you? 519.514.6051

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

Healthy Communities

The place to get involved. • Volunteer Opportunities • Projects & News • Sub-Committee updates

▢ 1⁄4 cup all-purpose

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less raspberry jam

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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

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toes, vegetables, roll and dessert. Serving from 5-6 pm. TAKEOUT ONLY. $15.00/person. To order call Donna: 519-669-5894

▢ Tuesday Take-Out Lunch at Gale Presbyterian.

id you know that when chocolate first came to the United States, it was more common to drink it than to eat it? In the 18th century, New Yorkers were known to grate chocolate into hot water and enjoy it as a beverage, often in the morning. That chocolaty breakfast drink (yum!)

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Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

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

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Jill Simpson is the executive director of To Thrive Together Sustainable Living.

Submitted

AGING WORKSHOP: “Understanding gives people the power to make decisions,” says organizer Jill Simpson → FROM 23

lifespan, she said, while those who see it as a time of decline and loss, fulfill that. “Our job is to get rid of those negative thoughts and replace them with scientific evidence,” she said. Simpson says during the pilot project they were able to talk about hard topics like death in a more comfortable way and “have a few laughs.” The goal of the seminar is to help people design a rest of life plan to age well and with dignity so they are in control of their lives and feel a strong sense of purpose. “It’s all about planning ahead,” she said. The feedback Simpson received to the pilot was great. Simpson said one participant wrote to her about the workshop on dying. “They said, ‘that was difficult. I am so grateful.’” “It was like, that was the most difficult thing I’ve done in my life, thank you so much for

making me do it,” said Simpson. She said another one of her older participants wrote to tell her he just registered for his PhD. Since the pilot ran, Simpson and her colleague Marjorie Paleshi have received government funding to run the series again. This time it will be available to anyone in Ontario. They will run 10 six-week workshops. Participants of the pilot workshop will be volunteering to help facilitate the conversation. There will also be a team to help behind the scenes to make sure the workshop runs smoothly and other trained facilitators, said Simpson. The Township of Woolwich is running the registration for the project. Staff are taking registrations online or in-person at the Woolwich Memorial Centre. People with technical difficulties registering online can contact the township’s customer service desk at 519-669-1647, ext. 7000.

39999

“When Jill approached us for these workshops, it was just such a unique opportunity for us to assist with partnering and spreading the word for our older adult population,” said Marie Malcolm, the program and inclusion coordinator with the township. The six-week program will run 10 times over the next 10 months. To begin, series one will run Tuesdays May 24 to June 28 from 1-2:30 p.m., series two will run Thursdays May 26 to June 30 from 9:30-11 a.m. The program is free to attend. Simpson said participants typically range in age from 55 all the way to late 90s, though she wouldn’t turn others away. “One thing is to start right now. You can’t change the past, so start now,” said Simpson. “When something bad happens, it’s about planning ahead. “Understanding gives people power to make decisions.”

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ACROSS 1. Retired 5. Liberal pursuits 9. Ivan the Terrible, e.g. 13. Dressing ingredient 14. Bronx cheer 15. First recorded

legislator of Athens 16. London square 18. Torrents 19. Blue 20. Blue bin items 22. Colorful salamander 24. A chorus line 25. Cried in the cornfield 28. Ancient assembly area 31. Computer acronym 34. Arabic for "commander" 35. Typewriter roller 36. Schuss, e.g. 37. Come together 38. Sent signals to 39. Vase 40. Electric fish 41. Kind of block 42. Decree 43. Be nosy 44. Doha's land 45. Bold 46. Proper ___

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022 | 26

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

Dr. Alice Chen

Optometrist

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73 ARTHUR STREET S., ELMIRA (Beside the Clocktower Wellness Centre)

48. Merlin, e.g. 50. Curved saber 54. Turmoil 58. Bavarian river 59. Overbearing official 61. Drivel 62. Church area 63. 100 cents

DOWN 1. ___ Spumante 2. Building near a silo 3. "Good grief!"

64. ___ bean 65. Back 66. Break

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12. One of the friends

on "Friends" 15. Scarcity of water 17. Ancient 21. Calling 23. Ability 25. General and vocational college (French acronym) 26. Arab chieftain 27. Haphazardly 29. Italian lake 30. Abalone eaters 32. Gumbo vegetables 33. Like many breath fresheners 35. Flexible 38. Get 42. Deals in furs 45. Characteristic carrier 47. Alpha's opposite 49. Noted blind mathematician 50. Siblings 51. History Muse 52. Biology lab supply 53. "The ___ of Europa" (book exploring the Nazi plunder of art treasures) 55. Decorative case 56. Bondman 57. Bring (out) 60. ___ Today

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Thursday, May 5, 2022 | THE OBSERVER

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

A N N UA L

Mother’s Day Sale FRI. MAY 6 & SAT. MAY 7

hanging OFF baskets only %

See us also for: • Ferns • Seeds • Potting Soil • Annuals • Perennials • Vegetable Transplants • Compost & More

MAYO CLINIC: Dealing with symptoms of andropause → FROM 23

Height loss, low trauma fracture or low bone mineral density.  Hot flushes or sweats. Other possible symptoms include decreased energy, motivation and confidence; depressed mood; and poor concentration. It's also possible to experience increased sleepiness, sleep disturbances, mild unexplained anemia, reduced muscle bulk and strength, and increased body fat. Experts recommend only testing older men for low testosterone if they have signs or symptoms. If an initial test shows low testosterone, the test should be repeated to confirm the results. If low testosterone is confirmed, further testing of the pituitary gland is recommended to determine the cause and rule out other hormone deficiencies. The pituitary is a gland the size of a kidney bean situated at the base of your brain. It is part of your body's endocrine system, which consists of all the glands that produce and regulate hormones. 

Treatment recommendations for men with age-related low testosterone vary. In 2020, the American College of Physicians recommended that health care providers consider starting testosterone treatment after explaining the risks and benefits in men with sexual dysfunction who want to improve their sexual function. In 2018, the Endocrine Society recommended testosterone therapy for men with age-related low testosterone who have signs and symptoms associated with low testosterone. Some experts also recommend offering testosterone treatment to men with age-related low testosterone without the presence of signs or symptoms. If you choose to start testosterone therapy, your health care provider will explain the ways to administer testosterone, as well as target levels and follow-up testing. For some men, testosterone therapy relieves bothersome signs and symptoms of testosterone deficiency. For others, the benefits aren't clear, and risks are possible.

Though further research is needed, testosterone therapy might stimulate growth of metastatic prostate and breast cancer. Testosterone therapy also can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, and contribute to the formation of blood clots in the veins. Your health care provider likely will recommend against starting testosterone therapy if your fertility is important in the near future or if you have conditions such as breast or prostate cancer, untreated severe obstructive sleep apnea, uncontrolled heart failure or thrombophilia, or if you've recently had a heart attack or stroke. If you think you might have low testosterone, talk to your health care provider about your signs and symptoms, testing and possible treatment options. Your health care provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of treatment. ↆ Mayo Clinic Q & A is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. E-mail a question to MayoClinicQ&A@mayo.edu. For more information, visit www. mayoclinic.org.

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THE OBSERVER | Thursday, May 5, 2022

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Bill Atwood

BE PREPARED: Marking emergency preparedness week →FROM 3

The government of Canada’s website on emergency preparedness (getprepared.gc.ca) states a number of factors to think about when developing your plan. These include: having safe exits from your home and neighbourhood, deciding on a meeting place to reunite with family or roommates, designating a person to pick up children should you be unavailable, and location of your fire extinguisher, water valve, electrical panel, gas valve and floor drain. Tanner also noted the

importance of having a 72-hour emergency kit. “Things you might want to include in that kit would be change of clothes, food and water for 72 hours, should you need to evacuate and not necessarily have that handy. You should have a bag ready to go that has the things you need to get by for a few days,” she said. “The key is to make sure [items] are organized and easy to find. Would you be able to find your flashlight in the dark? Make sure your kit is easy to carry and everyone in the

household knows where it is,” the getprepared website says. Tanner is also encouraging residents to sign up to the region’s alert system at alertwr.ca. “Everyone has a role to play in an emergency. Being prepared ensures that our community continues to grow ever more resilient in emergency response,” the region’s Emergency Management Office said in a release marking the week. “During an emergency people want to stay informed,” said Tanner.

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