Swansie Knight, in her 83rd year, passed away peacefully at Headwaters Health Care Centre, surrounded by her family and the love they shared. Born in Berkem, Overijsel, the Netherlands, on October 30, 1943, she lived a life defined by kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. In 1951, Swansie (Zwaantje) immigrated to Canada with her parents, Ralph and Christina Grit, and her siblings Klaas, Luke, John, and Geraldine. The family eventually settled on a farm in East Garafraxa—formerly known as the “Grit Corner,” and now recognized as the “Marsville Corner.” Swansie was the beloved wife of George (predeceased), and a devoted mother to David (Noreen), Louise (Steve), and Greg (Cheryl). She was a cherished grandmother to Jacob (Samantha), Emma (Marcus), Jessica (Ben), Sarah, Jennifer, Travis (Britney), Cody (Maddie), and Mikayla (Tanner), and the proudest great‑grandmother—“GG”—to Scarlett, Aspyn, Davis, Blair, Barrett, and three eagerly awaited great‑grandchildren. She will also be deeply missed by her siblings and siblings‑in‑law: John (Harma) Grit, Geraldine (predeceased—Bill) Kegel, Val (predeceased—Klaas) Grit, and Luke (Gail) (both predeceased) Grit and their families. Swansie met the love of her life, George Knight, in 1962, and they were married in 1963. Together, they built a life rich in family, love, and meaningful connections. We take comfort in knowing they are together again on their next journey. She worked at Graham Fibreglass for 10 years before joining the Erin Post Office, where she sorted and delivered mail across many routes in the Town of Erin. Many of Swansie’s grandchildren proudly served as her righthand helpers on her mail routes during her self-proclaimed special occasions. She also had a talent and passion for knitting, creating countless hats, scarves, and mitts with love and care. She was a proud resident of the Town of Erin until 2023. She then moved to Dufferin Oaks Long Term Care in Shelburne, where she grew to love the residents and staff who quickly became an extension of her family. She was especially proud to serve as President of the Resident Council, where she advocated wholeheartedly for the well‑being and needs of her fellow residents. She had an undeniable love for music, especially artists like George Jones and Elvis Presley. When her beloved George passed, she found strength and comfort in the memories they shared—made even more meaningful through the music they loved together. Songs such as “He Stopped Loving Her Today” by George Jones and “When I Get Where I’m Going” by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton held a special place in her heart. Swansie was the Toronto Blue Jays’ biggest fan and was well‑known for being a passionate (and vocal) armchair coach. She was also fond of cheering for the Toronto Maple Leafs during the Jays’ off‑season. She embodied bravery, strength, and beauty. You would be hard‑pressed to find someone as humble, kind, compassionate, free‑spirited, innocently hilarious, selfless, or strong. She wore a smile right up until it was time to begin her next journey. Following her wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at Hart House Farm (Caledon) on June 6th, 2026, from 1:00pm to 3:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Erin Fire Department.

There are no good-byes, wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts and remain the matriarch of our families.

Donna Mae Paczay passed away peacefully at home in Belwood on March 29, 2026. Born on June 13, 1941, in Fergus, she spent her life surrounded by family, friends, and the people who knew her best. Donna spent years working at the Simpson’s Potato Farm and for Canada Wire. She devoted all of her life to her family, and her greatest pride was caring for her five children. Her door was always open as her house was a place of comfort, care, and safety. In the summers she enjoyed poolside fun and watching her children play baseball in Belwood. She spoke fondly of long drives through the countryside and was known for her love of bagpipe music. Donna was the foundation of her family, and her love continues to span over four generations. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Klien, of 67 years, and her 5 children: Cheryl Ostic (Jamie), Kevin Paczay (Peggy), Keith Paczay (Lori), Tracey Woodhouse (Ray), and Darla Paczay (Paul). She was a proud grandparent to Bron (Yuna); Brittany (Steve); Desiree and Teanna; Cory (Brae), Dylan (Paloma) and Sasha (Jenna); Aleetta (Eric); Meriah (Jake); Sabrina (Cameron); Jacob (Haley); Danen (Karley) and Cole (Alyssa). Great-grandparent to Jace and Blair; Louise; and Leonard. Donna was selfless in the way she loved, always had a listening ear, and gave her kindness to all. She was independent, strong willed, and genuine to the core. Donna will be remembered by locals for her beautifully manicured lawn. Just as she always had her spot where she watched over her family with love and gratitude, Donna will forever have a spot in the hearts of those who had the honour of knowing her. A private celebration of life with family will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers/gifts, donations may be made to the Groves Memorial Hospital Foundation. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. For Donna’s memorial page and to leave online condolences, please visit www.grahamgiddyfh.com.

Keenan Lott’s family is very saddened to share that Keenan has left us peacefully in his sleep at his home in Guelph on Wednesday, March 25. Keenan was the much-loved son of Sheryl Ignace of Guelph, and Matthew Lott and Sharon of Fergus. He will be deeply missed by his siblings, Taylor and Benton, as well as his adopted brothers Gareth, Daniel, Allen, Caleb, and Eli. Cherished grandson of Larry and Anneke Ignace of Niagara Falls, and Lynn and John Lott of Wainfleet, and was predeceased by his grandmother Susan Bard (Sept. 2024). Keenan will also be missed by his aunts and uncles; Corinna and Vince, Steve and Melanie, and Rebecca and Rob, his Godparents, Teresa and Kim Hatch, as well as his many cousins and friends. Keenan was a special soul who fought against the struggle’s life gave him with quiet strength and a smile that could light up any room. He was an inspiration how he never complained about all his medical struggles, though he wasn’t shy about letting you know if you gave him the wrong cup or plate! Keenan started his journey with visits to four hospitals and a heart surgery at just five days old. He had so many helping hands along the way. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all the friends, relatives, churches, schools, and medical professionals who were part of Keenan’s journey. Visitation took place on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home, 280 St. David St. South, Fergus. In honour with Keenan’s favourite times, visitation was held from 11:11am to 1:11pm, followed by a memorial service beginning in the chapel at 1:11pm. Memorial donations may be made to Sick Kids Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are entrusted to the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home. 

www.grahamgiddyfh.com

Passed away tragically on Monday, March 23, 2026, after being struck by a hit-and-run driver while on the job keeping children safe as a crossing guard in Barrhaven (Ottawa). He was the kindest, most generous, and considerate human being that his friends, family, and colleagues have ever had the privilege of knowing. He was intelligent in a way that most did not understand, and he had an extraordinary imagination. He loved serving others and dedicated his life to making all those around him feel safe, heard, seen, and cared for. He loved animals and lived with five rescue cats who will miss his “scritches,” steady warmth, and heartbeat when they napped on his chest, as well as his attention to their needs. His favourite thing was to be outdoors, walking sometimes for hours daily and finding glimmers in songbirds, interesting natural beauty, and being near water. Although, as an adult, he did not particularly enjoy distance travelling, he made it to PEI and Nova Scotia and fell in love with the sea and its creatures. He could wade for hours looking for crabs and other marine life. A self-admitted Marvel geek, he loved watching the latest blockbuster or Disney animation on the big screen next to his wife, with hot dogs, popcorn, and drinks. He was born on July 6, 1970 and grew up in Ottawa and spent many wonderful summers with his extended Clark family at the “farm” near Mount St. Patrick, where friends became family, or at the family homes in Renfrew, and with his extended Hoey and Foley families in Ottawa and Athens, as well as fun times at Lake Bernard, QC. He worked many jobs throughout his life, such as working on assembly lines, driving a forklift, delivering and sorting the local newspaper, and working as a kennel attendant. None of them fit him until he found his calling as a crossing guard, which he initially started in Mount Forest. This allowed his strengths of loving children and seniors, and his need to be outside, to be used in service to the community. He loved interacting with the children, families, and seniors whom he guided safely from one side to the other and treasured every card, kind word, and trinket they gifted him. One of his greatest joys was making a child who was frowning smile. He was known by some students in his crossing guard area as “The Smiling Crossing Guard.” He was raised by loving and attentive parents, Jack and Jane (Hoey) Clark, who raised him to have solid family values and to always show kindness towards others. He was incredibly close with his brother, Don, and they enjoyed an idyllic childhood. They spent their days outdoors, playing many sports, including basketball, football, hockey, tennis, and swimming in their pool. Family was always at the centre of his life, with many cherished March Break trips to Myrtle Beach. As well, their summers were spent at the farm in the Ottawa Valley or at the cottage on Lake Bernard. He met his wife, Amanda Gayle Catherine Clark (Rolston), in 1995, and they were married in 2001. Coming just shy of their 25th anniversary, he leaves behind someone who relied on him for strength, comfort, and love. He taught her so much about being a good person, such as truly listening to others, not trying to “fix” everything but being a comfort to others, how to be patient and pick battles carefully, and, most of all, what it means to love and be loved in turn. Predeceased by his mother, Jane, in 2022, he leaves behind not only his wife and brother, but his father, Jack; his nieces, Jenna and Hayley Clark; his sister-in-law, Amanda Clark (Hough); two other sisters-in-law, Sharon and Shelagh Rolston; his brother-in-law, Bernhard Holmok; his niece, Hollis Rolston-Holmok; and his father-in-law, Garry Rolston. They will miss his warm smile, fun laugh, reminiscences about the shared past, and unwavering love and empathy. He also leaves behind many, many people who will feel the loss of his kindness, care, and attention, who were like family to him. Professional arrangements have been entrusted to Zohr Family Funeral Home, Renfrew, cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held for family and friends on the 2nd of April at 1:00pm with Rev. David McFarlane officiating in the Zohr Family Chapel. Following the family time in Renfrew there are plans for a more public event to be held in Ottawa. Details will be released as the weather improves for outdoor gatherings. For those desiring donations in memory of Peter, please consider two of his dearest charities, Hope for Wildlife (Nova Scotia) or Homewood Health Care (Guelph). Condolences, tributes and donations can be made online at www.zohrfuneralhome.com

In his 83rd year, Maarten Paulus Hoogendoorn passed away peacefully with family by his side at St. Joseph’s Health Centre in Guelph. Succumbing to dementia on Thursday, March 19th, 2026, Maarten leaves behind a legacy built of resilience, hard work and dedication. He is survived by his children with former spouse Andree (Bruce): Willem, Douglas, and Anna-Lee (Kevin Doyle); his grandchildren Martina and Taylor; and his step‑grandchildren Nathan and Meghan. Maarten is also remembered by his siblings Carrie (Rein), Arie (Sharron), Ada (Myron), Trix (Paul), and Jon (Else), along with numerous great‑nieces and great‑nephews.  He is also survived by his estranged wife Elizabeth and stepdaughter Kyla Anne Parkin. He is predeceased by his parents Willem and Etke (née Splinter), his brother Bernhard (Ina). A proud immigrant to Canada, arriving in 1962, Maarten made his home in Puslinch. Throughout his years as a farmer and small business owner, he cherished countless friendships and impressionable connections leaving lasting impressions on those who knew him. The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to the staff of St. Joseph’s Health Centre for their exceptional compassion and care during Maarten’s final years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Joseph’s Health Centre Foundation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Was peacefully reunited with his beloved wife Kathleen Friedman (Nee Drimmie) on March 28, 2026 at Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus, ON at the age of 88. Gil leaves behind his three wonderful daughters Kim Clark (Bill Stimpson), Stephanie (Stewart) Giles Andrea Friedman (Chris Sinclair). He was a proud grandpa to Dan (Katie), Duane (Elanor), Jessie (Coby) and Lexi and great grandfather to Allie, Ben and Sophie. Gil was a passionate woodworker; he had an exceptional ability to create and build incredible projects. He loved animals, in particular horses and dogs and enjoyed hunting. Gil was a man of many talents and his professional life spanned various jobs in agriculture and millwork. He will missed dearly. The wonderful staff at Groves Memorial Community Hospital and at Heritage River supported and provided exceptional care to Gil and his family during a difficult time; the family is forever grateful. A private family service will be held with interment at Elora Municipal Cemetery. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations made to Groves Memorial Community Hospital would be appreciated by Gil’s family. Arrangements were entrusted to Graham A Giddy Funeral Home Ltd., 280 St. David St. S. Fergus, ON N1M 2L5, (519) 843-3100. Visit www.grahamgiddyfh.com for Gil’s online memorial.

Formerly of R.R.#2 Alma and St. Jacobs passed away peacefully at Luther Village on the Park, Waterloo, on Monday, March 30th, 2026 in his 96th year. Beloved husband of Bea (Martin-Schmidt) Duff of Waterloo for 34 years, and the late Mary (Mitchell) Duff (1980). Dear father of Ron Duff and his wife Sharon of Drayton the late Murray Duff (1979) Karen and her husband Dan Scarrow of Waterloo and Paul Duff and his wife Kathy of Alabama. Fondly remembered by his grandchildren Holly Duff, Matt and Krystal Duff; Brittany Scarrow and Tyler, Bryce Scarrow and Hannah; MacKenzie Duff and Grahme, Jordan Duff and Taylor Duff. Great grandfather of Alexander and Quinn. Loved brother of Catherine Hoelscher and Doris (Geoffrey) McNamee. Fondly remembered by Bea’s children Dave and Sue, Ruth and Dave, Debbie and Brad. Grandchildren Shelby and Adam as well as by his nieces, nephews and friends. Predeceased by his parents Kenneth and Irene (McConnell) Duff, his brother Donald (Gwen) Duff, sister Florence (Charles) Bosomworth and brother- in-law Carl Hoelscher. To honour George’s wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends at the Heritage Funeral Home, Drayton, on Monday April 6, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 and on Tuesday April 7, 2026 from 1:00pm to 1:45pm followed by the memorial Service at 2:00pm. As expressions of sympathy donations to the Drayton United Church the Lung Association or the Charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family Spring interment in Bethesda Cemetery.

www.heritagefuneralhomes.ca

GUELPH – Athlete and recovering addict Steve Baldamus returned home victorious after competing in the Masters Indoor Track and Field Championships in Toronto on March 7.

The 65-year-old Guelph resident brought home a gold medal in the indoor pentathlon as well as silver and bronze in hurdle events.

“It was a combined Canadian and Ontario indoor meet and they had over 1,000 athletes participating,” said Baldamus.

“This is for masters. So the youngest they had was 35 [years old].”

Masters competitions are hosted by Athletics Canada and provide competitive and recreational opportunities for athletes aged 35 and older. 

Competition is organized in age groups  with five-year spans (35 to 39, 40 to 44, 45 to 49, etc.), allowing athletes to continue developing and competing throughout their athletic careers with those in a similar life stage.

Baldamus told the Advertiser competition day was especially challenging,  as the events were scattered throughout the nine-hour day.

“The outdoor version usually can get done in like three to four hours, because there’s not a lot of people ... usually it starts at five and ends about 8:30,” said Baldamus.

He added that’s “just enough time to catch your breath and go to the next one. But having it so long, it was so tiring.”

Baldamus is a recovering meth addict and has found solace and sobriety in being active and competing in track and field events.

“I’m a recovering drug addict so this is what keeps me going and keeps me alive and keeps me out of trouble,” he said.

Baldamus has been clean for six years now. 

Drugs became a part of his life after he had to stop working due to a double hernia at age 52.

“I was sinking pretty fast, and I saw a picture of myself. I said, ‘You know what? I gotta do something, or I’m going to die,’” he said.

“I was I was looking like I was 80 years old. I was just in very sad shape, because meth is a terrible drug. It feels good, but it eats away your body.” 

In terms of training and staying active, Baldamus told the Advertiser he swims about four times per week and works out in the gym roughly three to four times per week, not to mention a weekly yoga class to relax and maintain flexibility. 

“You just gotta keep moving ... once you stop moving, the rust settles in,” he said.

Baldamus encourages those 35 and older to get involved in sports and compete with others of a similar age.

Those interested in competing can visit trackie.com for more information.

PUSLINCH – The Township of Puslinch has purchased the Puslinch Tract lands from the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) for $1.6 million.

The purchase was finalized on March 27 and announced on March 30 in a joint press release.

Puslinch Tract is located on Wellington Road 32, just south of Highway 401.

The 265-acre property contains a mixture of naturalized forest plantations, deciduous and coniferous forests, meadows, ponds and several wetlands. 

The environmental features of the property will continue to be protected under municipal planning policies and bylaws, and provincial legislation, as well as regulated by the GRCA under the Conservation Authorities Act, according to the release.

The Township of Puslinch has identified a need for parkland and recreation space in its western area. The tract purchase will allow it to continue to provide recreation opportunities to the community, the release states. 

While nothing was stated publicly, the purchase of recreational lands for $1.6 million was accounted for in the township’s 2026 budget.

According to the draft budget document that was eventually approved in February, the township will use $400,000 from each of the asset management and gravel roads improvement discretionary reserves, and $800,000 from the cash-in-lieu reserve to cover the purchase.

The township estimated that borrowing from the reserve will save $224,000 in interest payments, which would have to be paid if the township was to take out a 10-year debenture through Wellington County.

The draft budget also talked about “potential revenue generating opportunities” of the land.

“Council is very pleased to see the transfer of the Puslinch Tract move forward,” Mayor James Seeley states in the release.

“This is a meaningful opportunity to enhance parkland and open space for our residents on the west side of the township, while continuing to protect the natural features that make this property so special.”

He added, “As we begin updating our Recreation and Parks Master Plan, we look forward to working with the community to shape how this natural asset can best support recreation, stewardship and enjoyment for years to come.”

GRCA chair John Challinor  stated, “These lands will provide valuable recreation opportunities and park space for the community.

“The GRCA has a long history of partnering with watershed municipalities and our board’s approval of this transfer reflects the strong and positive working relationship with the Township of Puslinch to support the needs of its residents.”

GUELPH – Those who showed up for a grassroots “Fight Ford” protest on March 28 in Guelph had a long list of complaints against Premier Doug Ford and his government.

More than 100 people showed up at the corner of Gordon and Wellington streets, bundled against the cold with signs, whistles, drums and a lot of anger, ready to talk about Ford’s decisions and the direction he’s taken the provincial government, which they say have negatively impacted their lives.

The list includes: reducing access to freedom of information (FOI), cancelling a basic income pilot, cutting funding for supervised consumption sites, lack of health care funding, cuts to OSAP, threatening First Nation treaty rights via Bill 5, merging conservation authorities, nepotism, patronage and political cronyism, closing Ontario Place, building Highway 413, cancelling climate initiatives, cutting protection for endangered species, cuts to the Ontario Autism program, pushing a privatized water system, democratic interference with the City of Toronto, and the ongoing Greenbelt scandal.

A number of protests took place across the province and when Guelph residents Julie McCann and Anne Moore realized there wasn’t one in Guelph, they quickly pulled one together.

“I live with chronic illness, and every day (Ford) does impact my life,” said McCann.

She listed poor access to health care and specialists, and no rent controls as Ford decisions that impact her personally.

“I live in poverty,” she said. “That’s my reality.”

She said her mother had a stroke in February, and “it’s not a good time to be sick in Ontario.

“We need a new group of politicians. This group is not in it for the people.”

Moore said Ford has dropped the democratic process – from limiting FOI requests, to reducing public consultation and environmental studies before planning applications are approved.

“The government should be for the people but everything with him is top secret,” Moore said of Ford. “That’s not acceptable. They have an obligation to talk to the public. People are really upset.”

Bill Chapman was there to protest education funding levels – both public and post-secondary.

He said if parents have a registered education savings plan, they might be able to manage tuition for their children. 

But if they don’t, it’s almost a lost cause, he said – especially in light of changes to the student loan program that drop grants by 85 per cent and increase student loans by 75%.

And the tuition freeze is over.

“My passion is people, not corporate profit,” Chapman said. “I get upset when people get sacrificed.”

Musician James Gordon, who was once a Guelph city councillor, attended because he’s fed up with Ford.

“Ford is great at deflection and right now he sees that we’re distracted,” Gordon said. 

“So he’s bringing these changes that are almost unnoticed. But he’s crossed a line for me. So I’m here to raise awareness.”

Duncan MacKenzie said, “Why bring in legislation on FOIs? There’s only one interpretation and that is that he’s got something to hide.

“What kind of democracy have we got if they won’t tell us what they’re up to?”

Many signs made note of diminished democracy under Ford. Others talked about health care and education funding, and the housing crisis.

One sign said,“fight truth decay.” A young boy had a sign that read,“Doug Ford’s choices are harming me.”

Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Joseph Racinsky spoke with the Advertiser prior to the protest, and while he acknowledged “everyone has the right in our democracy to express themselves,” he didn’t put much stock in the protest.

“There’s always going to be people that disagree with the government,” he said.

“We had an election only one year ago and the people, they voted ... more people voted in the election than (the one) before that.

“And they made it very clear that they want Premier Ford to lead Ontario for the next four years.” 

Protest organizer McCann said other protests are being planned for later in the year and she’ll do her best to coordinate more in Guelph.

Passed away peacefully on Sunday March 29th, 2026, at her home after a lengthy illness in her third year. Born October 31st, 2023, to Simon and Adina Martin of RR#1 Clifford. Granddaughter of Abram and Louise Doerksen of RR# 2 Mildmay and Mrs. Simon Martin of RR#1 Clifford. Also survived by 2 brothers and two sisters. Viewing was at her home 90735 Tollgate Line RR#1 Clifford on Monday and Tuesday. Funeral Service was held at her home on Wednesday April 1st thence to North Howick Meeting House for further services and burial in adjoining cemetery.

TORONTO – The provincial budget tabled by the Doug Ford government on March 26 is mired in red ink, with a ballooning provincial debt load to support heavy spending.

The government wants to spend $244 billion in the 2026-27 fiscal year and carry a projected deficit of $13.8 billion — nearly double the $7.8 billion projected in November’s economic statement. The revised debt projection brings the province’s cumulative debt to a total of $485 billion this fiscal year.

That total is projected to surpass half-a-trillion in 2027-28 at $514 billion, and $529 billion one year later.

When the Tories took office, during the 2018-19 fiscal year, the provincial debt stood at $338 billion. The province’s debt load has increased by 43% since then.

Interest payments on debt alone are expected to consume more than $17.2 billion taxpayer dollars in the 2026-27 fiscal year before increasing to $18.6 billion in 2027-28 and almost $20 billion in 2028-29.

After spending on health care ($101.2 billion), education ($40.8 billion for schools, another $14 billion for universities and colleges) and community and social services ($21.4 billion), servicing debt rings in as the province’s fourth largest expense.

All the while the government is trumpeting tax cuts amid slow domestic economic growth and external pressures from the U.S.

“Ontario is navigating economic challenges with a pragmatic and prudent fiscal plan,” Ontario finance minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said, adding the government is spending on energy, minerals, infrastructure and technology to strengthen the province’s economy.

“We’re keeping taxes so low, we’ve never raised a tax,” Ford said at an infrastructure funding announcement in Kenilworth last month.

“We will never ever raise a tax,” he added. “I always say, government has a spending problem, they don’t have an income problem.”

Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae told the Advertiser increased personal income tax revenues will help counter “historic” spending.

According to the budget, the government plans on receiving $65 billion in personal income tax in 2026-27, up from $55.7 billion in 2024-25.

Rae defended the spend-heavy budget despite “uncertain economic times” and the government’s mounting debt.

“Cutting taxes is one of the best things we can do for affordability right now,” Rae said, adding the government is “maintaining a responsible path to balance (the budget).”

Finance minister Bethlenfalvy has previously said the books would be back in the black in 2024-25. He then revised that to 2026-27 and again to 2027-28.

Bethlenfalvy now says the province won’t see a surplus until 2028-29.

With significant spending allocated for Toronto-area projects, Rae acknowledged the challenge of standing out among competing interests of other communities.
He added there’s always room for improvement to ensure “rural Ontario gets its fair share.”

The government is trumpeting relief for first-time home buyers through a federal-provincial sales tax rebate on new homes valued up to $1.5 million, with a rebate of up to $130,000.

Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Joseph Racinsky said the rebate will help those sidelined by the housing market.

Ford suggested at a March 25 news conference the reprieve will “kick-start the construction of 8,000 additional homes.”

Even so, the budget shows the number of new housing starts expected in the coming three years has been lowered from the government’s earlier projections.

There are 64,800 homes anticipated this year, 70,300 the next, 76,800 in 2028 and 80,500 in 2029 — all below the 150,000 per year required to deliver on the government’s promise of 1.5 million new homes by 2031.

The budget contains a $1 billion increase, to $29 billion, in spending for hospitals. Home and community care will also see a $1 billion increase, but spread across three years, and has a total of $6 billion budgeted for this fiscal year.

Long-term care spending is being increased by $139 million, with a $9-billion total budgeted.

Rae said health care spending resonates locally, particularly for the long-term care sector and the government’s goal of connecting everyone with a primary care doctor or nurse practitioner.

Rae added he’s working with local family health teams to get provincial dollars into the area for recruiting and keeping physicians and nurse practitioners.

Education spending for elementary and Grade 12 capital and operating expenses is set to increase to almost $41 billion from $38.3 billion.

There’s a boost to the Ontario Austin Program of $186 million, bringing spending to $965 million to help pay for support services for families with children under 18 who are diagnosed with autism.

Small businesses can benefit from a reduced corporate income tax, lowered to 2.2% from 3.2%, amounting to around $1 billion saved by small businesses over the next three years.

Racinsky said the cut will be “a huge relief” to small businesses in the Wellington-Halton Hills riding.

“They’re going to reinvest that in their businesses and in the economy,” Racinsky said of local business owners.

The government is trying to ease the impact of rising electricity rates with a $7-billion subsidy, about $36 per hydro bill (based on a monthly use of 700 kilowatt-hours).

The government plans to boost the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, helping to cover recreational facility capital costs, with $300-million over six years.

Over three years, nearly $50 million is allotted for Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario, including $10.5 million for the new Ontario Poultry Research Centre at the Elora Research Station.

There’s also $100 million planned over two years for the Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund that would bring total funding to $600 million annually to help pay for municipal infrastructure and services.

Guelph MPP and Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner told the Advertiser the Toronto-centric budget doesn’t include much for struggling families.

Schreiner criticized the government’s priorities, including plans to build a tunnel under Highway 401, a luxury spa at Ontario Place and expanding the Billy Bishop airport.

Health care and education spending falls short, he said, and programs for children with autism have been cut, the Ontario Student Assistance Program has been reduced, and there’s little to attack the housing crisis beyond a tax rebate.

“We clearly have the money if it wasn’t being spent on projects in Toronto,” Schreiner said.

“It would make way more sense to invest in housing that people can afford. That’s the number one driver of the affordability crisis.

“Rural Ontario is abandoned by this government.”

– With files from Joanne Shuttleworth and Ellouise Thompson

TORONTO – Team Addy reached another milestone moment on Feb. 26 as Toronto’s Sick Kids’ Hospital named the eight floor nursing station in honour of Addison Hill, the Elora girl who died at 14 but made a huge impact in her short life.

Addy, as she was called, died from a rare form of cancer in 2022. It was her wish to hold a basketball tournament and lemonade stand to raise funds for research.

Since then, a powerful team of volunteers, Team Addy, initiated fundraising efforts for Dr. David Malkin, her doctor at Sick Kids who is conducting research into sarcoma cancer.

When their $500,000 goal was reached, Addison Hill’s name was installed on Malkin’s lab doors.

With a renewed $1-million pledge, the name “Team Addy” was placed above the nursing station.

“It was a beautiful moment,” said Addy’s mother Jessica Hill. “This is where she got her chemo. Everyone knew her on this floor. And now it’s the first thing you see off the elevator.

“It’s meaningful, especially for someone who thought they would be forgotten.”

Hill said during  a lovely ceremony Malkin spoke about his work and a recent $5-million research grant he received.

“It’s because of Team Addy funding that Dr. Malkin has been able to take risks. And it’s because he took risks that he was able to secure a $5-million grant,” said Hill. “He’s working toward a cancer vaccine and that’s pretty cool ... Addy started this one wish and we are honouring her wish.”

Team Addy is gearing up for its basketball tournament on July 11 and the Addytude concert on Sept. 19.

Numerous individuals and groups also hold third-party fundraisers for the cause, which is extremely helpful and generous, Hill said.

Small or large, these donations push Team Addy towards its goal. Hill told the story of a young girl who donated her birthday gifts – $80 – to the team, which is beyond generous.

“Every little bit counts and we will never stop,” she said.

ABERFOYLE – Don’t call it a road diet anymore, and don’t expect the province to approve speed mitigation measures envisioned by Puslinch Township and Wellington County on Brock Road/Wellington County Road 46 through Aberfoyle.

That seemed to be the consensus formed during the March 25 Puslinch council meeting.

County engineer Don Kudo explained to council the county has engaged Dillon Consulting to study the road section between Wellington Road 34 and Sideroad 23.

The goal is to determine the most effective – and cost effective – way to slow traffic on that section of the street, which daily sees thousands of commuters, transport trucks and other traffic headed to or from Highway 401.

The township had reached out to the county for assistance some years ago and was told a traffic study would begin when the Hanlon Expressway midblock exchange was completed. Otherwise, the county would not get a true read on traffic flow, traffic counts and driver behaviour.

With that construction now done, Kudo said the county is ready to commence the study.

The township had recommended speed mitigation measures such as adding a raised crosswalk at Old Brock Road, radar speed signs and additional crosswalks further south on Brock Road.

The big one, though, was the so-called road diet, where the four-lane road would be narrowed to three and include a centre turn lane and possibly on-street parking.

This would slow traffic and increase safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and the parking could benefit local businesses, township officials say.

And then came Bill 60, the Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act. Passed in 2025, it contains a lot of things but specifically prohibits municipalities from removing vehicle lanes for bike lanes or other lane-reducing projects. The rationale is to keep lanes open to reduce gridlock and congestion on major transportation routes.

Kudo said the county had issued a purchase order for line painting on Brock Road with the road diet in mind, and the contract was awarded to a line painting company, all before Bill 60 passed.

But he wasn’t sure that would fly with the province.

“The province might say ‘okay’,” Kudo said. “I hope it will approve it.”

Brock Road currently has four lanes, two in each direction, narrow sidewalks interrupted in some places, and a posted speed limit of 50km/h.

There are roundabouts at Wellington Road 34 and Gilmour Road and a traffic light at Maple Leaf Lane/Old Brock Road with a crossing guard for children heading to Aberfoyle Public School.

This intersection had automated speed enforcement cameras and that seemed to be slowing traffic. Now speed cameras have been banned by the province.

The section is a designated Community Safety Zone.

The study will look at Brock Road but also some of the secondary roads in the area to determine if traffic mitigation on Brock would inadvertently cause issues on other roads like Concession 7, Victoria Road South, Gilmour, McLean or Wellington Roads 34 and 36.

It will also attempt to determine if the mid-block interchange on the Hanlon has increased or reduced traffic through Aberfoyle.

Preliminary alternatives include doing nothing, adding traffic calming within the right of way, lane reductions with line painting, or physical roadway modifications like bump-outs, wider sidewalks or medians.

The study will weigh impacts on traffic and transportation, construction costs, potential social and economic benefits, and other considerations. 

There will be two rounds of public engagement. This spring there will be a page on the county website with an online questionnaire and in the fall a public open house will take place to present the preferred alternative.

A technical advisory committee will discuss the findings, weigh the data and ultimately determine the preferred alternative.

Council wanted to be sure the social benefits had equal weight with traffic and transportation impacts.

“Our intention is to have an independent approach,” said Ian Borsuk, project manager with Dillon Consulting.

“We’ll look at the social benefits, the economic benefits, the traffic benefits and see the trade-offs.”

Councillor Sara Bailey said her goal would be “to push traffic to Highway 6 (Hanlon Expressway).”

Councillor Russel Hurst noted that once the Clair/Maltby area in Guelph is fully developed, “10 years from now (traffic) will be monumental.”

He also noted there are several different traffic calming measures employed on Kortright Road in Guelph and called it a “tickle trunk” of traffic calming measures.

“I hope that’s not what Aberfoyle gets,” he said.

The township recently received provincial funding to add benches, planters and lighting in Aberfoyle and Morriston, which officials wanted the team to know before the study begins.

Mayor James Seeley said he doesn’t think there is appetite in the township or the county for expensive construction measures to reduce speeds on Brock Road.

He too worried the study itself might be weighted in favour of improving traffic flow without consideration of livability for local residents. He hoped at least one elected representative could also sit on the technical advisory committee.

And in light of Bill 60, everyone in the room agreed to drop the term “road diet.” 

“We call it a road reconfiguration or a road study,” Borsuk said.

By Emma Danesh (Embedded in the Field, Emotionally)

WATERLOO — At approximately 6:00 a.m., local goose Gavin woke up with a strong sense of purpose and absolutely no plan to respect it.

“I just felt like today was going to be my day,” Gavin said, standing aggressively in the middle of a walking path and refusing to move for anyone, including a confused first-year student on their way to an 8:30.

The student eventually walked around him.

Gavin considers this a win.

6:15 a.m. — Morning Routine

Gavin began his day by screaming.

Experts say this is a common goose behavior, often mistaken for “honking,” but in reality functions as both a greeting and a warning. According to Gavin, it is “mostly a warning.”

“I like to set the tone early,” he explained, flapping his wings at nothing in particular. “Fear is important in building community.”

He then spent 20 minutes staring directly into a pond, presumably reflecting on life, or more likely, preparing to attack his reflection.

7:30 a.m. — Commuter Engagement

As students began walking to class, Gavin initiated what he calls “active transportation disruption.”

Eyewitnesses report that he approached several individuals with increasing confidence, eventually chasing one engineering student for approximately 12 meters.

“I pay tuition here,” the student yelled.

Gavin declined to comment on this, but sources close to him confirm he also pays tuition—“in vibes.”

9:00 a.m. — Breakfast

Gavin consumed a carefully curated diet of:

• Grass (locally sourced)
• A discarded Tim Hortons wrapper
• Something he described as “mystery crunch”

Nutritionists were unavailable for comment, but Gavin insists his diet is “balanced” and “better than whatever students are doing.”

11:45 a.m. — Midday Reflection

After a productive morning of intimidation and light grazing, Gavin took time for self-care by sitting directly in the sun and blocking an entire bike lane.

Cyclists were forced to dismount and walk around him, which Gavin describes as “a necessary reminder of hierarchy.”

“I don’t make the rules,” he said. “Actually, I do.”

1:00 p.m. — Professional Development

Gavin attended what appeared to be a meeting with several other geese.

The meeting consisted of:

• Standing in a loose circle
• Occasional synchronized honking
• One goose walking away dramatically and then returning

While the agenda remains unclear, insiders suggest the group was discussing “territorial expansion” and “whether humans deserve rights.”

3:30 p.m. — Conflict Resolution

Tensions escalated when a passerby attempted to walk too close to Gavin’s general area.

Gavin responded by lowering his head, spreading his wings, and charging.

“I felt threatened,” Gavin later stated, though no one else reported feeling this way.

The passerby apologized.

Gavin accepted.

6:00 p.m. — Evening Wind Down

As the sun began to set, Gavin returned to the water, where he floated peacefully for several minutes before abruptly attacking a nearby leaf.

“It knew what it did,” he said.

By the end of the day, Gavin reported feeling “accomplished,” having:

• Asserted dominance over at least 12 humans
• Consumed three different types of garbage
• Maintained zero accountability

When asked about his plans for tomorrow, Gavin was clear:

“Same thing,” he said. “But worse.”

ELORA – Centre Wellington council was paid a total of $231,319 in 2025.

A report to council was passed without comment on March 23.

The report indicates Mayor Shawn Watters was paid $55,699 plus $2,470 for meetings and $295 in expenses for a total $58,464.

Watters was also paid a total $10,552 for sitting on the board of Centre Wellington Hydro and $5,715 for sitting on the board of Grand River Conservation Authority.

All councillors were paid $29,270 and were allotted various sums for meetings and expenses:

• Barb Lustgarten-Evoy was paid a total of $34,591;
• Bronwynne Wilton was paid a total of $34,868;
• Denis Craddock was paid a total of $35,557;
• Jennifer Adams was paid a total $30,626;
• Kim Jefferson was paid $35,300; and
• Lisa MacDonald was paid $34,795.

Councillors were also reimbursed a total of $21,424 for expenses like attendance at conferences and cell phones.

WELLINGTON COUNTY – The number of local municipal employees paid over $100,000 per year went up by 16 per cent in 2025.

Their salaries are published by the province as part of the Public Sector Salary Disclosure List – more commonly known as the “sunshine list” – of all civil servants making more than $100,000.

Last year's list was published on March 27 and featured just over 400,000 names.

The top public sector earner in the area was again Dr. Nicola Mercer, medical officer of health and CEO of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health (WDGPH), at $356,340.

Municipal employees

The County of Wellington and its lower-tier municipalities paid 268 employees at least $100,000 in 2025, an increase of 16 per cent from 2024 (231 people) and 60% since 2023 (168).

CAO Scott Wilson was once again the county’s highest-paid employee, with a salary of $330,030, a 7% increase from $309,163 in 2024 and an 11% jump from $297,107 in 2023.

Forty-three Centre Wellington employees are on the 2025 list, up from 41 in 2024 and 27 in 2023. The township’s highest paid employee last year was CAO Dan Wilson at $256,422.

Twenty Erin staff members made the list, a significant jump from nine in 2024. The highest paid employee was CAO Rob Adams, who was paid $250,648 in 2025, a 47% increase from 2024.

Mapleton paid 12 staffers over $100,000, up from nine in 2024, with the highest paid employee being CAO Manny Baron at $199,652.

Wellington North had nine employees on the list, unchanged from 2024. CAO Brooke Lambert was once again the township's highest paid employee at $180,850.

In Guelph/Eramosa, nine employees were paid over $100,000, with CAO Ian Roger receiving the most, at $216,658.

Minto had 12 people on the list, down from 13 in 2024, led by CAO Gregory Furtney at $177,074.

Eight Puslinch employees made the 2025 list, up two from 2024. The township's highest paid employee was CAO Courtenay Hoytfox at $183,315.

Health care

The number of North Wellington Health Care (NWHC) employees on the list increased from 40 in 2024 to 44 in 2025, but still down from 50 in 2023.

Salaries for employees of NWHC, which operates hospitals in Palmerston and Mount Forest, ranged from $102,000 to $178,286 for registered nurse clinical resource lead Michelle Goetz.

Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Centre Wellington has 80 employees listed, up from 61 in 2024. Topping the Groves list is president and CEO Angela Stanley, who earned a salary of $277,884, up 17% from 2024.

WDGPH has 47 employees listed, up from 35 in 2024, with salaries ranging from $100,046 to $356,340 for Mercer.

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) has 22 staffers on the list, up from 19, with salaries ranging from $101,012 to $219,215.

Guelph-Wellington Paramedic Services (GWPS) employees are officially employed by the City of Guelph, but the area they serve includes Wellington County.  The 2025 GWPS list includes 128 names, four more than in 2024 and 26 more than in 2023.

The highest paid GWPS employee was general manager and chief Stephen Dewar, with a salary of $207,662.

Education

At the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB), 1,805 employees made the Sunshine List in 2025, down from 2,029 in 2024.

Eleven UGDSB employees’ salaries surpassed $200,000 – up from four in 2024:

• director of education Peter Sovran, $276,027;
• associate director Eystratia Giannopoulos, $257,339;
• associate director Brent McDonald, $228,779;
• technical support manager Sandro Buffone, $222,334;
• superintendent of student achievement Wendy Donaldson, $217,248;
• manager of application development Guangzhao Yang, $213,390;
• human rights equity and accessibility commissioner Alicia Ralph, $208,827;
• superintendent of people leadership and culture Deirdre Pyke, $207,981;
• chief information and security officer John Mccormick, $206,891;
• senior facilities manager Dilip Parmar, $206,815; and
• information, communication technology infrastructure manager Peter Scantland, $201,596.

At the Wellington Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), 410 employees earned over $100,000 in 2025, down from 463 in 2024.

Only one was paid over $200,000: director of education Michael Glazier at $229,452.

Conservation

The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has 44 employees on the 2025 Sunshine List, seven more than in 2024 and 15 more than in 2023. 

CAO Samantha Lawson’s salary was $232,896 in 2025, up 11% from $208,902 in 2024. Other salaries ranged from $100,414 to $189,400.

At Credit Valley Conservation, 67 employees are listed, up from 54 in 2024. The top salary in 2025 was $197,664 for CAO Terri Leroux.

Policing

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has 7,698 employees on the 2025 Sunshine List, up 32% from 5,825 in 2024. Of these, 10 earn salaries exceeding $300,000.

The highest 2025 salary went to OPP commissioner Thomas Carrique at $468,523. Physician Andrew Reed brought home the second largest sum of $434,205.

Without knowing the name of every Wellington County OPP employee, it is next to impossible to discern how many are on the list.

Wellington OPP detachment commander Karen Medeiros was paid $212,257 in 2025.

Members of Parliament

Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Joseph Racinsky was paid $148,113 in 2025.

Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae brought home $176,458 in 2025, compared to $133,217 the previous two years. Rae served part of the year as chief government whip.

Premier Doug Ford made $269,567 in 2025, when he received his first pay increase since 2020. The premier’s previous salary was $208,974.

Wellington-Halton Hills MP Michael Chong and Perth-Wellington MP John Nater are not included in the provincial Sunshine List because they are federal employees. 

MPs are paid about $210,000 annually, though members can be paid more for additional roles.

Social services

Five employees at Community Living Guelph Wellington made between $104,857 and $164,592 in 2025. 

The Children’s Aid Society of Guelph and Wellington has 22 employees on the 2025 Sunshine List, up from 18 in 2024, ranging from $100,000 to $203,163 for executive director Daria Allan-Ebron. 

To read/search the complete 2025 Public Sector Salary Disclosure List click here.

UW was one of six finalists in this years’ Innovation Competition hosted by the NHL and NHLPA. 

The third edition of this competition asked university and college students province-wide to come up with bold, practical ideas to address real world challenges facing hockey today. The final pitch day took place on March 25 where the teams presented to industry experts in the NHL, NHLPA and SAP. 

The hockey innovation competition this year was held in Ottawa. Although UW did not win, their hard work and drive should not be overlooked.

UW’s team, called RinkNext, was made up of fourth year statistics student Roy Luo, fourth year computer science student Max Tan, fourth year computer engineering student Carl Wang, and third year rec and sports business student Joey Zhang. Their idea is a scalable, Rink-as-a-Platform model that retrofits community arenas with heat recovery, multi-use conversation kits, and digital management to cut energy costs and expand year-round access.

A core goal for this team was to make the rink inclusive to everyone and they went on to work together to figure out how they would be able to do that.

Zhang came up with the idea of joining the hockey innovation competition. This idea stemmed from his experience as a junior hockey player. “I loved going to the rink. It was fun and I got to hang out with the guys and play ping pong. It wasn’t always about hockey,” he said. He brought the idea to his three friends, Luo, Tan, and Wang. He told them he wanted the rink to be inclusive to everyone and insisted they come up with an idea. 

Reflecting on the event and their presentation, Luo shared, “We did the best we could, so I’m very glad we were able to have fun and collaborate on such a meaningful project.” The team also showed massive appreciation for the opportunity to meet and talk with other professionals and executives in the hockey industry. 

“We all have high work loads, and the fact that we were able to manage it and overcome that was a very impressive feature we were able to push through,” Wang stated. The team agreed that the event was a good networking opportunity. 

When asked how the process of preparing and competing in this competition was and how competitive it was, Tan said, “It was wildly competitive. First we had to make a slideshow talking about our ideas and then do a presentation in the semi finals.” He also stated that it was quite the experience to compete with all six teams that came in from all across Ontario.

The most memorable moments of the event for the four friends wasn’t anything revolving around them, but the chance to meet with the other teams and see what other ideas they came up with. “It’s pretty nice to see everyone approach the same problem from a very multifaceted and variety of perspectives,” Luo said.

The team showed hope for the ideas that were in the competition to get implemented in some way in the near future, believing that many of the concepts presented had real potential to improve the hockey experience and make rinks more accessible, efficient, and inclusive for communities across the region. The choice of implementing these ideas is solely the NHL’s, “The competition is to present an idea that wins either innovation or implementability, which one is more feasible and it’s more for the NHL to gather ideas,” Wang stated.

The winners were announced on March 27: The Guelph team won the Changemaker Award, St. Clair College and Queen’s University won the Innovator Award. For winning, the team members received scholarship grants, a VIP NHL ticket experience, and networking opportunities with the NHL, SAP, Ottawa Senators and participating colleges and universities.