Christmas has come early for the United Way of Oxford and London-Middlesex.

A cool $505,000 was generously donated by CAW Local 88.

United Way Executive Director Kelly Gillson is elated with the news

" I'm almost speechless. That is unbelievable generosity from both Cami Automotive and again from the Members of CAW Local 88 and all of the employees".

The donation was presented early this afternoon at the Cami Plant in Ingersoll

Cami President Carolyn Watts says she is very impressed by the generosity of her team

" Even last year during more of a difficult year we did manage to raise about $430,000, so even during difficult years this team has been really generous".

CAW Local 88 Chair Mike Van Bokel says Christmas has also come early for the plant itself with the continued demand for the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain

"it's looking exceptionally strong - we just went through probably our best year ever and next year is looking just as strong if not stronger - with the increase speed we could be very easily setting new records in production".

Van Bokel says currently the plant employees a little over 2600 employees with 100 -150 new hires in January.
 

They're not giving up without a fight.

About 75 Landowners from Norwich Township and Huron County gathered at Oxford Center Monday Night.

Many people reacted after hearing to 3 keynote speakers tell their story once again of how thousands of people are suffering from serious health affects because of living near wind farms

"As a group we do not want to see wind turbines in our area"

"We can start by getting the municipalities in Oxford would be a good start"

"it affects animals, it affects livestock"

"our councilors are sitting on their hands and not acting quick enough and that's part of the problem".

"we're leaving a big mess for our children and our grandchildren to clean up".

The event was sponsored by the East Oxford Community Alliance - an organization concerned about the impact of wind turbines.

Representative of the Alliance - Joan Morris says if Prowind Canada gets approval to build wind turbines in the Gunnshill and County Road 14 area, they'll be prepared to appeal with an Environmental Lawyer they have already hired

"she can certainly help us in terms of strategies at the municipal level, but also on the front of being prepared should we decide to launch an appeal to the project should and if the project does proceed".

Prowind Canada is currently awaiting for the go-ahead from the Ontario Power Authority to build at least 10 wind turbines in the area that the alliance says will also cause devastating affects on real estate and future business developments.

Fore more information visit www.windvigilance.com

Police across the province started ramping up their RIDE programs this weekend.
 

Here in Woodstock, police held 3 separate checks, screening some 250 vehicles.

One 7-day license suspension was issued to a man that failed a roadside screening test.

Police will continue frequent RIDE programs from now through the New Year.

The Norwich Merchants battled hard but came up just short after losing 6-5 to the Simcoe Storm in a shootout yesterday.

The Merchants are back in action Friday night at home against the Alymer Spitfires.

Those in need this holiday season are getting a helping hand.

Loblaw 's corporate and franchise stores are partnering with local food banks across the province to raise awareness and needed funding.

VP of Loblaw Public Relations - Julia Hunter - provides the details of how you can help on a local level

"this year specifically we have a special program through the Zehrs store where customers can purchase a specially labeled can that's been labeled with the 'Extra Helping Food Drive'. They are valued at $5.00 or $10.00 and its a can of soup - and its represents one of the most needed food items recognized at food banks".

Hunter says customers can pick up a can of soup, take it to the cash register and automatically 5 or 7 items will be donated through the local food banks.

Friday marked the official launch of the "2010 Extra Helping Holiday National Food Drive".
  

The issue of domestic violence continues to be at the forefront in Oxford County.

The Oxford Family Violence Counselling Program is looking for community support for their cause.

They're trying to gather enough money and equipment to embark on a wilderness retreat next year for victims of violence in the home.

Program Chair Kirsten Stevenson says domestic violence can be a misunderstood term.

"People hear abuse and immediately think of physical violence.  And although that is a part...it can also occur on many different levels...emotional abuse, financial abuse..."

The wilderness retreat is part of a counselling program to empower women that have been victims in the past. 

"We really encourage women to step outside of their comfort zone and really challenge themselves on many different levels.  They're challenged to do things like rock climbing or caving.  It costs roughly 500-dollars to send a woman on this third and final stage of this counselling."

And so they're also looking for donations of money, used camping gear, and even volunteer support on their board.

For more info, call: Oxford CAS at 519-539-6176 and ask for the Family Violence Counselling Program Department. 

Western Region OPP's Safety Division wasted no time getting the Festive R.I.D.E. program on its way.

Several OPP Officers and their mobile Command Unit were set up on the eastbound lanes under the Wellington Road Overpass in London Friday morning.

Traffic Inspector Mark Wright spoke with Heart FM News and says those even thinking about drinking and driving should keep this message in mind

"People need to understand there are devastating consequences for driving impaired and causing accidents and potentially killing people and we have zero tolerance for that".

Wright says if you do drink and drive - you better think twice

"we're going to be out 'in force' throughout the holiday period to make sure that if anybody makes that foolish decision that we're there to catch them doing that".

Meanwhile the Oxford OPP detachment joined the campaign Friday night

OPP Constable Dennis Harwood tells Heart FM the stats of impaired drivers are disturbing

"we had 304 people killed on roads that were patrolled by the OPP - of that '50' were alcohol-related collisions, so unfortunately we do have people out there that are not catching on that alcohol is not tolerated and we won't stand for it".

The Festive R.I.D.E. program runs through until January 2nd.

In Niagara Junior C hockey the Simcoe Storm needed overtime to take the Woodstock Navy Vets. The storm took the Vets 5-4.

The Vets are facing Caledonia at Southwood Arena tonight. The puck drops at 7:45PM.

The Norwich Merchants came out ahead over the Dundas Blues 6-4.

In Junior 'D' play Tavistock Braves doubled their score against the Wellesley Applejacks with a score of 4-2.

Sunday's Tavistock at Port Dover Game has been rescheduled until 2PM 

If you're thinking about drinking and driving this holiday season...think again.
 

The Oxford OPP will kick off another season of the Festive RIDE program tonight.

The random roadside checks are designed to find motorists who are driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Out of 304 fatalities in Ontario so far in 2010, 50 of those were alcohol related, so it is still a major issue in this day and age.
 

Oxford OPP Constable Dennis Harwood says it's a program officers take pride in.  "We do bring in extra people to man these RIDE checks.  All we're trying to do is make the road safe so when you're going out to visit over the Christmas Holidays that you feel safe going to where you're going and that you feel safe coming home."

Last year, local police checked over 37-thousand vehicles in Oxford.

The RIDE program starts tonight across Ontario and runs until January 2nd.

Oxford Public Health is joining a province-wide fight to weed out smoking from movies.

Tonight (7PM), youth at the Fusion Centre will take in a screening of "The Last Airbender", one movie that does not depict tobacco use.

Youth Engagement Coordinator Victoria Leck will talk to teens about how they see smoking in the movies.

She'll also ask people in attendance to sign a petition.  "Placing their (tobacco companies) products in movies in order to get young people addicted, and they're really targeting young people with their messaging.  So we are asking people to sign a petition in the form of a post card to say 'Smoking in movies is not ok'."

The Petitions will be sent to the Ontario Film Review Board in an effort to get them to place an 18A rating on any film that shows tobacco use.

Leck says that will make movie producers think twice about having smoking in their films. 

Woodstock Police are continuing to investigate a rash of vandalism in north-east Woodstock.
 

Following 8 cases of spray paint graffiti on cars and buildings last weekend, there have since been three more called in.

A vehicle on Conestoga Road, as well as Huron Park Secondary and DM Sutherland schools have been hit.

The culprits are tagging "GSG" or "Grey Street Gang" in grey spray paint.

Police are investigating and ask any tips to be called into Woodstock Police at 537-2323 or Crime Stoppers at 421-TIPS.

t could generate the kind of revenue of having two more CAMI plants in Ingersoll.
 

But is it a sure-fire plan?

A public meeting is being held today at Town Hall with Ingersoll staff and In-Tech Clean energy showing their plans for the 35-million dollar investment.

Projections have the town drawing a 2.3-million dollar profit per year.

Economic Development Commissioner Bill Mates is encouraged by the province's commitment to green energy.  "If we read between the lines...I think to be very proactive and positive about this...I think definitely we're hearing a lot about a lot of good things happening with a lot of municipalities across the province right now, so I think we feel very comfortable in the direction we are going."

The public meeting runs from 4-7PM with a drop-in format.

If the new council signs off on the deal, construction could begin in August.

A branch of the Community Health Centre will be opening soon in Ingersoll.
 

The location will be announced next month where a health care team will be providing care and advice to people in the town.

Additionally, the CHC has announced that a Nurse Practitioner-Led Health clinic will be opening up in August 2011 in Ingersoll.

For those in the town, interested in becoming patients at the new Ingersoll CHC, call 519-539-1111.

The CHC is designed to serve groups that don't have a family doctor, including those facing income, mental health and addiction challenges.

Drive-thru attendants see all kinds of things...in this case...they would rather have not.

A 22-year-old Cambridge man is facing charges after going through a coffee shop drive-thru in Paris...naked.

It happened early Tuesday morning.

Police were able to track down the minivan the man was driving, and say he was impaired by drugs.

Michael Sousa is charged with possession of cocaine, marijuana and impaired driving.

19 teams of area high school students competed in the 5th annual Oxford Youth Invitational Challenge Tuesday night.

About 100 students, mentors and community members filled the Goff Hall at Woodstock's Community Complex.

WCI Student David Hough tells Heart FM he's fascinated by technology

"I just find it really interesting- figuring how stuff works - making it work - it just really interests me".

Glenco District High School Student Emma Holder explains where the concept came from for their invention

"we went to the Cami plant where we saw an actual really big press that they use for pressing auto parts, so that's where we got the idea and went from there".

Holder says the invention is able to utilize pneumatics for a miniature pressing machine that stamps their school logo onto the final product.

Each robot was built using the Lego Mindstorms Robotics kit.

Teams that completed the project and participated in the challenge were awarded a bronze, silver or gold honors and got to keep the kit - a $600.00 value.

The Winners are:

 
Arthur Voedan Secondary School - Gold
Catholic Central High School - Silver
Collage Ave Secondary School - Silver
Fusion Youth Center - Bronze
Glencoe District High School - Platinum
Glendale High School - Bronze
Huron Park Secondary School - Gold
Ingersoll District Collegiate Institute - Silver
John Paul ll Catholic Secondary School - Bronze
Mother Teresa High School - Silver
Nick Fischer Designs - Bronze
Parkside Collegiate Gold
Parkside Collegiate Gold
Rehoboth Christian School - Platinum
Rehoboth Christian School - Silver
South Secondary School - Silver
St. Mary's High School - Silver
Strathroy District Colliegiate Institute - Silver
Westminster Secondary School - Gold
Woodstock Collegiate Institute - Silver
 

 

Goff Hall at Woodstock's Community Complex is the meeting place for the Oxford Invitational Youth Robotics Challenge.

Twenty teams representing Woodstock, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg and surrounding areas will compete at the 5th annual event beginning at 3:15 this afternoon.

About 100 students will showcase their industry-based achievements while learning about technology and manufacturing.

Judging will take place until 5pm with presentations at 6:15.

Woodstock Police are looking to catch up with members of the "Grey Street Gang".
 

Over the weekend, there were 8 incidents of the letters "GSG" or "Grey Street Gang" spray painted in Grey across the north-east corner of the city.

5 vehicles and 3 buildings were tagged.

The Criminal Investigations Branch is looking into the graffiti, and ask for the public's help in identifying those responsible.  Call 537-2323 to speak with police.

A Cambridge-area Limo company is at the centre of a scandal.
 

A 36-year-old Brantford woman has been charged with fraud in connection with an investigation of Bellagio Limousines.

The company allegedly took deposits from couples arranging their wedding-day transportation.

Several couples either received substandard service, or no limo at all.

Some of the complaints about Bellagio Limousine date back to January 2010.

If you have had any dealings with this company, you're advised to contact investigators at 519-650-8500 ext. 8372.

Politicians, new and old, from all across Oxford County are gathering today.

An orientation session is taking place today to update them on the very latest information on their municipal roles and responsibilities.

County CAO Michael Bragg says this session is especially important for those coming into County Council for the first time, "Most of them are experienced councillors from their own local municipalities, so it's not like it is all new to them.  There are some changes at the upper tier structure, and the relationship between the county and the area municipalities is some times a little fuzzy for folks right at the start of their term." 

There will be five new faces around the County Council horseshoe.  Bragg says in 40-years working at the County, he can't remember an election that produced as much turnover.

But, he says, all are bright people that have been backed by their community. 

 It's a busy weekend for Santa Claus as he puts in appearances across the country.

 He took part in parades in Saint John, Montreal and Ottawa yesterday.

And he'll find time to meet his fans in a number of cities today, including Regina and Toronto.

This is the 106th year for the Toronto Santa Claus Parade, the oldest in the country.

Here in Oxford County all 3 Santa Clause Parades were a huge success.

Ingersoll Chamber of Commerce Manager Anne Campbell says the turnout in Ingersoll was the best she has seen in years.

Thousands of people young and old lined the streets of Broadway in Tillsonburg yesterday afternoon and more than 100 floats and 10's of thousands of on-lookers paraded from the Fairgrounds in Woodstock down Dundas Street to Vansittart Park bringing in the official launch of the Christmas season. 

A family of 5 escaped serious injury - thanks to their smoke detector.

Woodstock fire department responded to a blaze shortly before 8:00am Saturday at a Lindsay Road address.

Upon arrival Fire officials discovered flames emitting from the basement windows and reaching the first and second floors.

Crews were able to extinguish the flames before the fire spread to adjacent units.

The cause is said to be electrical in nature with damages pegged at $100,000.

The smoke detector awoke the homeowner and allowed enough time for four children between the ages of 10 and 20 get out safely.

The family's pets were also saved.

If you planned to put up those new L-E-D holiday lights this weekend -- don't.

Home Depot Canada is recalling all L-E-D light strings sold between October 1st and November 18th.

It says they don't meet the company's quality standards, but also stresses that it knows of no safety issues associated with the lights.

In Niagara Junior 'C' hockey the Woodstock Navy Vets were shut out by the Norwich Merchants 5-0 Friday.

The Vets play again in Paris against the Mounties tonight at 7 PM.
 

In other action Dunville took Grimsby 5-3, and Caledonia outscored the Spitfires 7-4.

In Junior 'D' play The Tavistock Braves defeated the Burford Bull Dogs 6-2.

A strong showing of community support for the Salvation Army this morning.

Heart FM opened up our parking lot for a drive-thru donation campaign in kicking off this year's Kettle Campaign.

Several community leaders came out to help ring the bells and wave cars into the drive-thru.

The grand total from this morning's drive was $1,199.56.

It was the final meeting of the current term of Woodstock City Council.

For three around the horseshoe, it was their final meeting, as they won't be returning when the new council is sworn in on December 2nd.

That includes Mayor Michael Harding.  "Politics is never forever, except for maybe Hazel McCallion." 

Harding says he doesn't have anything lined up at this point.  "No, I don't have any plan.  One is in search mode at the moment.  For my own company, I wound it down, because I couldn't serve two masters.  The master was going to be the city of Woodstock.  So for the first time in 35-years...I find myself unemployed."

However, Harding will still have several Mayoral duties in the next two weeks, including riding in Saturday's Santa Clause Parade.

When it comes to his legacy, Harding reflected on the many positives of the last 7-years, including the creation of 1600 jobs.

But in talking about the decision that may have turned many against him, in transforming an aging building into a new Art Gallery..."Time will be the true test.  I think our community will come to embrace the downtown redevelopment."

Outgoing Councillor Ross Gerrie says he'll miss being a city councillor, but insists you haven't heard the last from him.  "I'm going to stay active in the community, my plans are to remain as active as I always have been."
 

Connie Lauder says knowing it was her final meeting was sad, but she will be staying active and is considering a number of offers to sit on community boards.

A 1-billion dollar debt payment and 10 per cent electricity rebate were the two hi-lights of today's fall economic update.

Finance Minister Dwight Duncan conceded, electricity bills have been soaring, due to green energy investments and the HST, but says relief is on the way.  "We are introducing the Ontario Clean Energy Benefit...will give Ontario families, businesses and farms a 10 per cent rebate on their bill for 5-years Mr. Speaker."

Even with the 10 per cent rebate, the government admits hydro rates will still jump 46 per cent over five years.

Tory Leader Tim Hudak says families are working harder and seeing their household budgets shrink, but will end up paying more because the government isn't serious about finding savings.

"In reality, they're taking more money out of the wallets of families that will soon be paying 732-dollars more per year on their hydro bills."

Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman summarized the announcement like this: "This isn't a positive message.  This is a message that it was (power rates) going to be terrible, and we're going to try and bring that down to really bad."

The other big headline from today's update is the government has signed a 50-year contract extension with Teranet, the company that operates the province's electronic land registry.
This will save the province $1 billion that will be applied to the debt, and will  lower interest costs by another $50 million a year.

Hundreds of people will be coming together tonight to try and put an "End to Bullying".
 

A video conference being led by the Thames Valley District School Board will be taking place tonight in London, St. Thomas and here in Woodstock.

College Ave. Secondary is the site here, where officials from the school board, police, social service agencies and parents groups will gather.

Experts will speak on the topic, and community discussions will be had on how all agencies can work together to put an end to bullying.

Tonight's event begins at 6PM.

A three pronged investigation is taking place at the scene of the fire at Woodstock Auto Recyclers.
 

The OPP, Ontario Fire Marshall's Office and Ministry of Labour are looking into the blaze that injured three people Tuesday afternoon.

All were workers at the facility.

One suffered serious, life-threatening burns, and remains in a London Hospital.  Two other workers were seriously injured.

There's no information yet on the cause of the fire as investigators remain at the scene this afternoon.

A window of opportunity awaits for increased tourism in Oxford County.

Five projects are in the works to promote tourism, create jobs and increase an awareness of what Oxford County and the region offers to outside visitors.

Ontario's Tourism Industry Advisor - Nancy Fallis - tells Heart FM what motivates people to explore specific areas

"we still see one of the biggest reasons people come is 'sightseeing' -that's really about one of those authentic stories of your area. People want to understand what's this all about and why do people come here and what are the important stories of this area and that's told through the cultural heritage experiences. You're getting something that's educational and at the same time it allows you to get in there".

Oxford Tourism Specialist Cathy Bingham says projects such as Agri-Tourism Strategies, Market Development, Birding initiatives and motorcycle tourism will also help enhance business opportunities and additional growth

"If you look at some of our marketing materials and some of the product that we have - people are just blown away and don't realize we have that here". We often overlook what's in our own backyard and I think we're just going to highlight that now".

Bingham says Tourism Oxford is also promoting the launch of their new video that can be found at www.tourismoxford.ca and click on the 'photo' link.

A fire that injured three people is under investigation today in Norwich Township.

Woodstock Auto Recyclers on Horn road was the scene of the blaze that broke out at 2:45 Tuesday afternoon.
 

Three employees of the facility were burnt in the blaze.  Two were in serious condition while one worker received serious, life-threatening burns and was rushed to a London hospital.
 

The fire was brought under control by the Oxford Centre, Burgesville and Norwich Fire Departments.
 

Fire officials, along with the Ministry of Labour will be investigating.

For most businesses, it's the most wonderful time of the year.
 

But this year, Christmas may never come for Dee Lights Bakery.

The forced shut-down of their Dundas St. storefront continues during the painstakingly slow demolition of the neighbouring Capitol Theatre building.

The latest estimate is still putting the project completion another 3-4 weeks from now.

Owner of the Bakery, Dee White says the wreckage scene out front of the building is causing some of her customers to believe they are closed.

"That's been very hard.  This weekend I had customers calling me, they're desperately looking to find out where we are.  But we're not closed.  We are re-opening there.  This is my building, we're just waiting to get back in.  I just can't pick up and go somewhere...it's hard to move an entire bakery."
 

Dee Lights is still operating its catering out of the Dundas St. United Church and are still taking orders by phone and e-mail. 
(539-6474  www.deelightsbakery.com)

But White says the idea of missing out on sales and the fun around the Christmas season hurts from a sentimental and financial standpoint.

One of her staff members, Karen Sills says they're trying to stay positive.  "We all just work together.  We keep a light heart and we just try to keep saying to one another 'We're going to get back home.  We're going to get back to our bakery and it's going to happen for us'."

Communities in Oxford County continue to show their support for Oxford County's Sakura House.

$1,900.00 was raised through the efforts of Shoppers Drug Mart and its customers in the township of Norwich.

The funding was in conjunction with the Shoppers Drug Mart "Tree of Life" campaign - a 4 week program held across Canada each autumn.

More than $13 Million dollars has been raised for Canadian Health Charities since 2002.

A local hero is being remembered.

Ed Bennett, who joined the Canadian Army Tank Corps in 1940, passed away on Remembrance Day.

Ed was born in 1913 and was a regimental Sergeant major of the Oxford Rifles.

He commanded 3 tanks  with the Calgary regiment in the raid on Dieppe, France in 1942 before becoming wounded and taken as a prisoner of war.

Ed's brother, Fred Bennett, spoke of fond memories of his brother with Heart FM this morning

" one of my fondest memories of my brother was back in the fall of 1944 when Ed was released from the prison camp. I had a sister Ann who was in the air force stationed in London, England  - I can't remember the details, but she told me Ed was being released."

Bennett says it was a memory he'll always remember and ...they knew how to celebrate

" we had quite a family reunion when Ed was repatriated. We spent most of the day together and that night we all went to see the Glen Miller band at one of the theatres in London, England".

Bennett was one of 7 other siblings and General Manager of Coles Brothers Insurance until he retired in 1979.
He was also very active in Woodstock's heritage activities and an Honorary President of the Woodstock Historical Society.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday November 27 at the Church of The Good Shepherd on Devonshire in Woodstock.
 

Close, but no cigar for the Woodstock Navy Vets. 

Despite 2-goals from Kyle Robertson, the Vets went on to lose 4-3 in a shootout to Simcoe.  Derek Cowing had the other Woodstock goal, Devon Young had 2-assists.

Neil Pittock was strong in goal, making 36-saves in defeat.

The Navy Vets also lost at home, 6-3 to Aylmer on Friday night.

The Artistic talents of many local artists are being proudly displayed at Craigowan Golf & County Club this week-end.

About 43 artists are showcasing oil and water color paintings, pottery, hand made jewelry and much more.

Woodstock Visual Artist Shelley Malcolm describes some of her unique paintings (pictured here)

"I work in water color and acrylic and I also have limited edition G-clay prints that I offer and everything that I paint is out of my imagination".

Other local Artist, Eric Simard, explains where his wax paintings, namely encaustic, originated from

"actually it was a high school art project - Leslie teaches it at St. Mary's High School - she put me on to the medium and told me to look it up and check it out and my first piece was in highschool".

Oxford Creative Connections Cultural Coordinator Mary-Anne Murphy says along with door prizes, visitors can also sample some tasty treats and tour Craigowan's clubhouse

" the 19th hole is actually open - that's Craigowan's restaurant and bar and they have lunch and dinner during the show days, so that's a really good time to come out and see the club because it's normally a  closed club to the public, so you can see the club and have a bite to eat and see the show".

About 270 visitors attended the art show on Friday and doors will open again today from 12-5.

Following a tense labour dispute with the university, faculty members at Western in London have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a new collective agreement.

The voting wrapped up yesterday with the faculty voting 86 per cent in favour of the deal.

Roughly 16-hundred unionized full and part-time faculty members at Western have been without a contract since June 30th.

Details of the agreement will be pending approval next week from the university's board of governors.  

Oxford Creates comes to the county for the fourth year this evening, and this weekend at Craigowan.

It is the largest indoor art and cultural exhibition in Oxford County which showcases contemporary fine art, music, and literature.

Cultural Coordinator, Mary-Anne Murphy adds it is a great opportunity to see all of the talented people in one location.

Admission is $2 and kids 12 and under are free.

The show runs tonight from 7 - 10pm, Saturday 10am to 5:00pm as well as Sunday noon to 5pm.

The second stage of Project Round-up has been completed with Woodstock Police making 7 more arrests.
 

More drug raids were conducted on Thursday, following Wednesday's raids that have now resulted in 13 people being arrested for drug trafficking or possession.

One person also faces a weapon charge.

Woodstock Police Chief Rod Freeman says police are still totaling the quantity of the drugs seized.  Police seized prescription painkillers including Oxycodone and Morphine, along with street drugs crack, cocaine and marijuana.

The Chief warns other (alleged) drug dealers in the city: they better be looking over their shoulders.

Charged in "Project Round-Up" are:

Karen Store, 45 years, of Woodstock – Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Valerie Strickland, 52 years, of Woodstock – Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Matthew Tucnik, 50 years, of Woodstock – Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Shane Boudreau, 42 years, of Woodstock – Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Ron Rogers, 46 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Tony Pimentel, 48 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Jack Amey, 44 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Armin FORSTER, 46 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Chris HOFFMAN, 35 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Lou Antonnisen, 61 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Kathleen Elsbrie, 46 years of Woodstock - Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking

Channa Veres-McLean, 25 years, of Woodstock -Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

Patti Shillolo, 50 years, of Woodstock - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance

Over 1000 turned out for the annual Remembrance Day ceremony at Woodstock's Victoria Park.
 

The ceremony was very emotional this year, as there was a new name added to the war monument. 
 

Private Tyler William Todd added to the cenotaph.  Todd was killed in April in Afghanistan by a roadside bomb.

With surviving family members in the crowd, his mother, Beverly, laid the Silver Cross Mother Wreath at the foot of the monument that now bears her son's name.

Pastor Ken Charlton presided over the ceremony, replacing Peter Grogan, who has done the event the last 20-years.  "Peter has laid the foundation, and I think he's responsible for the large crowds.  He's gave such passionate addresses.  I was trembling, but really glad to be here today.  It's really about the veterans."

But, there were some other notable absences at the ceremony.  Several veterans from the city have been left off the Cenotaph.  Mayor Michael Harding told the crowd that will be corrected in the coming months.  "To add the 16 names who were forgotten in the WWI, that qualify to be added to this cenotaph.  We're doing further research to investigate to make sure every single veteran that served in WWII is commemorated here.  The facade will be refreshed and it will represent those people that paid the ultimate sacrafice."

Travis Horvath scored a hat-trick and added an assist leading the Woodstock Navy Vets to a 6-2 win in Glanbrook last night.  It was the Navy Vets second win of the season.

Kyle Morris had a goal and two assists and Matt Smith scored his first goal of junior hockey. 

Trevor Neable got his first win between the pipes for the Navy Vets as well.

Up next, Woodstock is home to Aylmer on Friday night.

A public advisory from Oxford County Public health...

Anyone who visited the Schaus Decorating Store located at 593 Dundas Street in Woodstock on Monday, October 25 between ll:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m may have been exposed to the measles virus.

That's the message from Oxford County Board of Health.

Manager of Health Protection Mary Metcalfe explains how the virus is spread

" It is spread by airborne droplets, but it's only people who were in the exposure site at a specific time that are of any concern. Probably a number of people have protection against the disease, but we just want people to be aware that if they are experiencing symptoms what the cause may be then they should seek medical attention".

Symptoms can occur between one and three weeks after exposure that include
cough, runny nose, fever, white spots in the mouth and red watery eyes that are sensitive to light.
These symptoms are followed by a red rash which lasts about six days.

Metcalfe says as a precaution, Public Health is asking anyone born in 1970 or after who has not received two doses of the measles vaccine—or who has not had the measles infection-- to watch for signs and symptoms of the disease and to contact Public Health. 

Woodstock Police and their drug enforcement unit,with the help of the Waterloo Regional Police Service Emergency Response Unit,  cracked down on drugs in the city.

Police acted on three search warrants this morning at homes on George and Dundas Streets and Ingersoll Road in Woodstock.

During the investigation, police seized quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, marihuana, oxycodone and morphine.

6 people, 3 males and 3 females ranging in age of 25 to 61, all residents of Woodstock, face a series of drug-related offences.

WPS says further charges are pending and more arrests are expected throughout the remainder of the week. 

OPP say two men from the Six Nations reserve died in a single-vehicle collision in Brant County.

Police say 21 year old Paul Edward Laforme Jr and 27 year old Ernest William Silversmith, were pronounced dead at the scene Tuesday night.

Another Six Nations resident, 21 year old Rayal Anderson,was taken to a Hamilton hospital with serious injuries.
 

Police say a speeding car left Burtch Road, west of Bateman Line, slammed into a utility pole and rolled over several times.

All three men were thrown from the car.
 

Provincial police say alcohol and failure to wear seatbelts were major factors in a double fatal accident near Brantford.   

The two victims died at the scene Tuesday night while a third man in the car was rushed to hospital in Hamilton for emergency surgery.
   
Police say the car left Burtch Road, west of Bateman Line, slammed into a utility pole and rolled over several times.
   
Debris was spread over a 100-metre area.
   
Names of the victims have not been released.

Several over achievers were recognized for their fundraising efforts through the MS Society.

Celebrations took place at the 4th Annual 'Celebration of Champions' dinner held at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto October 29th.

Individuals and teams from across the province who raised $10,000 or more - were award recipients of the 2010 MS Walks and RONA MS Bike Tours.

Woodstock resident David Wilton has participated the last 9 years in the 2 day/150 Kilometer bike tour and raised $11,171.99.

Fundraising Coordinator Amanda Travnicek says she's very pleased to see such generosity

"it's amazing that actually over the years we've had so many people raising such astounding amounts of money - I think one of the very first tours raised about $100,000 and this year the Grand Bend and back tour raised almost $1.2 Million".

Wilton, who was not readily available for comment, generates most of his funds through business.

 Travnicek says the money goes towards research and services for the MS Society and those that suffer from MS.
 

Leading edge solar technology has been unveiled in Woodstock today.
 

Officials gathered at Oxford Gardens Retirement Home for the unveiling of a major solar thermal power system.

162 solar collectors on the rooftop of Oxford Gardens collect solar energy, which can be converted to heat the water, the pool and the air in the retirement home.

Project Manager for Proterra Solar, Suni Ball says it can also help cool the building.

"In the summer, we've got a special air conditioner and it will actually use the hot water to generate air conditioning for the building.  It's likely the most significant solar thermal project in Canada this year."

German technology was used in the project, and German Consul General Sabine Sarwasser was on hand to praise the investment made by the Van Haeren family.  "It's what we call a lighthouse project: one that is visible and attracting attention from a far."Nik Van Haeren tells Heart FM they're already getting interest from across Canada and US from businesses that want to see the solar thermal technology in action.

Ontario Environment Minister John Wilkinson was on hand for today's grand opening.  He credits the Van Haeren family for making an investment that will help advance the technology in Canada.  "We need this type of technology to be adopted across North America.  There's a lot of people that won't do it until they can see it and touch it and know for sure that it works.  And so we want to particularly praise all the partners here for deciding to put up the best demonstration you can for this product by having it right here at Oxford Gardens."

"It takes a whole village to build a child".

Those were the words echoed by Thames Valley District Board Chair Terry Roberts.

Roberts attended Glendale High School in Tillsonburg this afternoon to help celebrate nearly $9 million dollars in renovations.

He says it's been a trying year throughout Oxford County with school closings and openings, but, he says, it's for the benefit and the future of our kids and communities

"there's nothing worse than having to close down a school because you're hitting at the emotions of the total community, but when they see what happens when we consolidate and put the additions on something brand new - they know that it's in the best interest of their son or daughter. They're students. We're doing the right thing in terms of investing in their future".

TVDSB Board Trustee James Stewart agrees

" Yes, it is very distressing it causes a lot of aches especially with single school communities, but at the end of the day there are less kids in each school and our funding comes from the province and we have live with the way the money is doled out and we have to do what's best for our kids".

Glendale Principal Sarah Khan says she has seen students transition into her newly renovated school and make the adjustment

"the ones that came from Annondale - they were there in grade 7 and grade 8 and so they came over with their grade 9 buddies, so they came as a large group - half of our school is grade 9 or 10 students. For the students who came from other schools it probable is a bit more of a challenge -a bit more of a change for them".

About 1,000 kids, school faculty and community members celebrated new science classrooms, a drama studio, large gymnasium and library resources  centre to name a few.

The renovations were made possible through the 'Reliving The Legacy' campaign Chaired by Mike Bossy.

The school also received $42,000 from the Trillium Foundation that was put towards a 7,600 square foot gymnasium.
 

The Woodstock Police Service wants to be your friend.

City Police have opened up their own Facebook page, in hopes of opening up the lines of communication with the community.

Constable Laurie Ann Maitland explains one of the main reasons for police to join the largest social network.  "It encompasses a couple of different things, because the theme of Crime Prevention Week this year is 'Connecting to Kids Today, Preventing Crime Tomorrow' and where are kids?  They are on Facebook.  So it just makes sense for us to be there and keep the lines of communication open. 

Maitland also encourages older users of Facebook to add the Woodstock Police page to their list of sites to check.
 

There will be safety tips posted on there, press releases and community forums on matters dealing with the police.

You can find the page at:

http://www.facebook.com/woodstockpolice

A teen is dead and a woman is injured after a crash near Brantford.

Their car was travelling on Brant Highway 54 near the town of Onondaga, when it somehow rolled several times and ended up in a ditch.

A 19-year-old male passenger died from his injuries at a hospital in Brantford. His name has not been released.
 

The 20-year-old Brantford woman who was driving the car is in a Hamilton hospital with serious injuries.

The crash happened around 10:45 Sturday night.
 

The road was closed for several hours while police investigated. 

 Small but 'vocal' crowds of veterans gathered across the country, to protest benefit changes.

A reported 150 people gathered in front of Parliament Hill in Ottawa, while about 100 people met in St. John's and about 50 attended a Halifax rally.

A number of vets also held protests in front of the constituency office of Oxford MP Dave MacKenzie in Tillsonburg at 11 o'clock yesterday morning.

Meanwhile only a handful of people turned out to a rally in Toronto.

The veterans are protesting the change away from life-time pensions to wounded and injured veterans by a combination of lump sum payments and income support.  

Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman is reminding Ontarians the importance of owning and checking Carbon Monoxide Detectors.

Hardeman spoke recently at the Ontario legislature and stressed the importance
of the detectors as he prepares to re-introduce his private members bill (the Hawkins-Gignac Act) this December.

During a recent interview on Rogers TV Woodstock, Hardeman said he's confident the bill will be accepted

" Since it was supported unanimously on the second reading in the previous setting of the legislature, I have no reason to believe that it won't do that again unless someone says something very foolishly about the bill that we did a debate about, but I don't see any reason it wouldn't pass".

Hardeman introduced the first version of his bill in December 2009 after Oxford OPP Constable Laurie Hawkins, her husband Richard and children Cassandra and Jordan died from a carbon monoxide leak in their Woodstock home.

In Niagara Junior 'C' hockey action the Woodstock Navy Vets gave the Aylmer Spitfires a run for their money.

The game headed into overtime before the Spits defeated the Vets 3-2 .
 

Chase Thorton got a short handed goal and Derek Cowing also scored for the Vets.
 

The spitfires grabbed the win with just 22 seconds left in overtime. 

In other local hockey action the Norwich Merchants came out on top beating the Caledonia Corvaires 3-2 .

Woodstock Police responded quickly after two men were reported to be in the downtown area with a gun at about 9am Friday.

Police say they received a call saying a male was threatening another male with a firearm near Museum Square. 

Police responded to the scene but the suspects had fled the area.

Police Chief Rod Freeman says with the assistance of witnesses, they were able to make their arrests.

Police have now charged 46 year old Kevin Brett of Woodstock with several firearms related offences - including unauthorized possession of a firearm and careless storage of a firearm. He was released from custody and will appear in court December 14th.

53 year old Clifford Racine of East-Zorra Tavistock is charged with several firearms related offences including assault with a weapon, possession of a dangerous weapon, use of a firearm while committing an offence and pointing a firearm.

Racine is being held in custody pending a bail hearing today.

A third was male was arrested and later released without charges.

Police retrieved a sawed off shotgun during their investigation.

The new Woodstock General Hospital has reached another milestone.

With many accomplishments reached, and many more to come, the latest highlight has been the "commissioning" of the building.

Commissioning is the quality control process of the construction to ensure the building and all of its mechanical systems will perform as intended, such as the heating and ventilation system.

President and CEO of the Woodstock Hospital, Natasha Veiljovic says "Commissioning brings us another step closer to substantial completion scheduled for June 2011."

Woodstock Police are investigating a report of a youth being attacked and robbed in the north end of the city.

Police say a 17 year old male and 16 year old female were walking through the Northdale Public school property Thursday when they were approached by 2 to 3 males.  The teen says the males began to kick and punch him, demanding his cell phone and wallet.  The suspects removed the items from the teen and fled on foot south across the school yard.

The suspects were wearing bandanas and the victim can provide only a vague description.  He received only minor injuries and did not require medical attention.

Police are asking anyone with additional information to call them at 537-2323 or Crime Stoppers at 519-421-TIPS. 

Oxford County stepped it up and raised thousands for United Way.

Teams climbed their way through the Community Complex yesterday and raised over $27,000.

The Student Stair Climb raised $15,552.66 in the morning, with the IDCI taking the top spot for the 7th consecutive year in a row raising $7678.

Then the adults stepped in for the evening and raised over $12,000 at this years event.

All money raised goes to support the United Way of Oxford.

A Progressive Conservative member of Ontario's legislature is calling for Remembrance Day to be made a statutory holiday in the province.

Nepean-Carleton member Lisa MacLeod says making November 11th a statutory holiday would recognize the sacrifices of those who have given their lives in military service.

Oxford MP Dave McKenzie says there is mixed reaction on the bill

"Veterans organizations are somewhat split on it too because they're concerned that people will just see it as another holiday to do their shopping or whatever else it may be that folks wish to do, so I don't think their is unanimous consent in the country".

Ontario is one of the few provinces and territories that doesn't recognize Remembrance Day as a statutory holiday.

MacLeod's bill would also require every school to hold a Remembrance Day service on the last school day before Nov. 11.
   
 

It was a night many won't forget for some time.

Hundreds filled the Oxford Auditorium Wednesday night for the 13th annual business awards of excellence.

Gary Farrington of Farrington Plumbing received the Community Service Award

"it's overwhelming for one person - I enjoy doing what I do so much. There is not enough money in Woodstock to pay me for the satisfaction for doing it and anybody that's not volunteering don't know what they are missing".

Adam Hagan and his team received their award for Outstanding Food Services at Craigowen Golf

Hagan says he's very proud "it's an honor to be part of these great businesses here in Woodstock and the surrounding communities and to be awarded the prize for the best food services is an honor for our club".

Marna Wilkinson of Picard Peanuts Woodstock took home the Outstanding Retailer of the year award

" I'm very happy to receive this award. I have put a lot of work into working with this business - we grow our own peanuts - it's a family business - I can't say any more than that".

Margorie Miller took home top honors and received the Presidents Award - for her volunteer work encouraging The Boy Scouts in their work for almost 40 years - Miller says she's absolutely speechless and surprised by the win.

2010 Business Awards of Excellence Finalists & Runner Ups:

President’s Award:

Marjorie Miller

Community ServiceAward:

Gary Farrington: Farrington Plumbing

Runner Up: Jeff Worthington – Investment Planning Council

                    Terry Thompson – Nesbitt Coulter LLP

Entrepreneurial Award:

Sherri Stevens: Stevens Resource Group

Runner Up: Barnim Family: Als Tire Craft

                    Joe Odumodu – The Dispensary

Young Professional/New Business Award:

Colleen McKay: “Your Farm Market”

Runner Up: At The Office

                    Eden Bella Boutique

Professional Services Award:

Tim Barnes: Barnes Chiropractic

Runner Up: Beatty, Stock & Boddy

Outstanding Achievement Award: Commercial:

Park Place Retirement Residence

Runner Up: Dollars & Sense Book Keeping

                    Flooring Creations

Outstanding Achievement Award: Manufacturing:

Maglin Site Furniture

Runner Up: Pre Con Inc.

                    Vuteq Canada Inc.

Franchisee of The Year Award: 

Boston Pizza Woodstock

Runner Up: Home Hardware Building Centre

                    Woodstock Ford Sales

Outstanding Retailer Of The Year:

Picard Peanuts Woodstock

Runner Up: Oxford Tire & Auto

                     The Stereo Man Ltd.

Outstanding Food Services Award:

Oxford Golf & Country Club: Craigowan

Runner Up: Banana Leaf Thai Cuisine

                    Miss Woodstock Restaurant

Tradesperson of The Year Award:

The Furnace Guy

Runner Up: Deroo Bros. Home Builders

                    Ricks Heating & Cooling

Energy & Conservation & Innovation Award:

County of Oxford

Runner Up: HINO Motors Canada Ltd.

                    Oxford Gardens Retirement Village 

Oxford OPP are gearing up for the 5th annual charity basketball game  - and they are going to need it after last year's whooping.

Ingersoll's Fusion Youth will be taking on the cops beginning Monday November 8th at 7PM.

They'll be hooping it up in the main gym at Ingersoll District Collegiate Institute (IDCI) in Ingersoll.

Admission is only $2 and the money raised will be given to a local charity chosen by the youth.

As the cold weather settles in, the Coats For Kids Campaign is in full swing.

Coordinator Sharon Maybee says that donations are down this year and they are reaching out to the public for help in keeping everyone warm this winter season.

Maybee says they typically distribute over 1000 items each year which includes jackets, mittens, hats and boots.  And even though it is called Coats for Kids, they need coats for all ages from babies to adults.

With donations being down, organizers are asking the public to drop off their items before the deadline of Saturday at any of their locations in Woodstock. 

Drop off locations are:

Sobeys

Pets On Board (Springbank Plaza)

Oxford County Admin Building

St. David's United Church

Church of the Epiphany

It's classes as usual today for UWO students.

Professors at Western had been threatening to strike but negotiations between the two sides went into the late hours of the night, and a tentative deal was reached between the school and faculty association.

Classes will continue today as scheduled.

Wednesday night marks the 13th annual Business Awards of Excellence.

The dinner and awards presentation presented by the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce will be jam packed with several local businesses that strive for business success and achievement.

The 2010 finalists and Nominees can be found by visiting:

http://www.woodstockchamber.on.ca/events.php?id=5975 

The event begins at 6:00PM Wednesday November 3rd located at the Oxford Auditorium in Woodstock.

Tune in to 104.7 Heart FM Thursday for all the results and comments from award winners.
 

No injuries are reported, but 29 students were shook up after their School Bus was rear ended southeast of Springford this morning.

Oxford OPP say the bus had stopped at Cornell Road to pick up students.

When the bus pulled away, it was struck by the car.

The bus contained 29 students ranging from senior kindergarten to grade 8.

The investigation is continuing and charges are pending. 

East Zorra-Tavistock have sold the former Tavistock Library and PUC shed.

Dave and Kim Piggott are the new owners of the building and lands to the rear of the library.  The Township has retained the former Tavistock PUC Office as it will continue to be the home of the Tavistock & District Historical Society.

The Piggott's say they do not have immediate plans for the building but are tossing ideas around.  They are considering a commercial tenant, but will be putting the ideas out there to see what type of response they receive.

The Piggott's renovated the former Oxford Hotel into residential apartments and the new home of the Tavistock Library.

Mayor Don McKay says, "Based on their experience with the Oxford Hotel, Dave and Kim are the right people to give the old Tavistock Library a chance at renewal.  It is encouraging to see the private sector continuing to invest in our community."
 

Mayor-Elect Pat Sobeski says he's looking forward to a new slate as Woodstock City Mayor come December.

Sobeski was interviewed on Rogers TV Talk Local last Thursday and was asked what his thoughts are when the 3 new council members join the horse shoe

" We have a former Police Chief who understands cities and has been in a management role. so he'll bring that management experience to the table. Paul Plant, a former Economic Developer and Bill Bess is certainly familiar with council, but Bill is more than just an environmentalist, so it's going to be an interesting mix of new people".

Sobeski says his first order on the agenda is to ask his staff to provide detailed and broader reports to counselors that will provide good dialogue and better debates.

The interview with Sobeski will run tonight beginning at 7PM and will be played throughout the week.

Sobeski and council members will be sworn in - in December.

A 22 year old Tillsonburg man is facing charges after allegedly punching a Peace Officer in the Face.

OPP say a man was seen punching at store windows just before 2:30 AM Sunday morning in the the downtown area.

Police say the man was clearly intoxicated at the time of the arrest and injured hand and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

As police were transporting the man from the hospital to the detachment, the male allegedly struck the Officer across the head.

22 year old Eric Armstrong faces charges of being intoxicated in a public place and assaulting a Peace Officer.

The Officer did not require medical attention.

Oxford OPP are investigating a couple of break-ins over the week-end.

Police say the first involved unknown suspects entering through a 'Man door' at a Cobble Hills Road address in Zorra Township between 12:00 Noon and 2:30 PM Friday.

A quantity of hand tools were taken. Police say the suspect entered the home, but nothing was taken.

A second break-in occurred on old highway #2 near Eastwood during the early morning hours of October 31st.

OPP say unknown suspects entered a locked, fenced-in compound and 3 snow mobiles and a trailer were taken. The trailer's license plate is D-3-2-7-3-H - that theft is estimated at $13,000.

Anyone with information should contact Oxford OPP or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

There is a power outage affecting the east part of Woodstock, north-east and south of the city into Norwich township.

Hydro One crews say there was an equipment/material failure which lead to the power outage earlier this morning.

Crews are continuing to work on the issue and hope to have all power restored by 11AM.