LOCAL HEADLINES

Supporters say a proposed six-storey redevelopment of New Hamburg's former Felt Boot Factory would breathe new life into a landmark building and strengthen the downtown, while opponents worry the project will worsen parking shortages and change the character of the community.

After nearly four years of fundraising, planning and navigating approvals, the Harrington and Area Community Association is inviting local communities to celebrate the completion of a new bridge over the pond along the trail at Harrington Conservation Area.

More than 100 local pet lovers and their animal companions are taking part in the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth's annual online Calendar Photo Contest, raising funds to support animals in need throughout the region.

Wilmot Township is moving ahead with a proposed Community Improvement Plan (CIP) designed to encourage the cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated commercial and industrial properties by sharing a portion of the future property-tax revenue generated by those projects.

Music, dancing, good food and plenty of fellowship once again brought the community together for the second annual Pic-Nic in the Park at the Queen's Park Pavilion in Tavistock.

Long before the doors opened, tattoo enthusiasts were already lined up around the Hampton Inn in Waterloo, all eager to support a unique fundraiser for local shelter animals.

A group of Perth County farmers traded tractors for fishing rods last week, enjoying another successful day on Lake Ontario as part of a tradition that has spanned more than four decades.

Special music and an inspiring message combined to make Sunday's worship service at Grace United Church a memorable one for the congregation gathered in Zion Hall.

What began 21 years ago with just 30 campers has grown into a thriving summer camp that will welcome approximately 1,400 campers during the 2026 season.

Contestants in this year's Wellesley Junior Fair Ambassador program recently enjoyed a behind-the-scenes visit to a local farm as they prepare to represent the Wellesley Fall Fair.

Wellesley Township has recognized two longtime volunteers whose decades of service have made a lasting impact on their communities.

Claire Wight (née Koch) has been named Wellesley Township's 2026 Junior Citizen of the Year in recognition of her leadership, volunteerism and commitment to agricultural education.

Some of the area's top young performers will take the stage during the ABC Talent Competition semifinals at this year's Wellesley Fall Fair.

More than 100 vintage cars and trucks rolled into Tavistock last week for another successful Zehr Insurance Classic Car Show, raising money for a local community organization.

Dozens of antique tractors rolled into downtown Tavistock last week as members of the North Easthope Antique Tractor (NEAT) Club gathered for their weekly breakfast and community visit.

A challenging regular season ended with a championship celebration for the Wilmot U17 boys soccer team.

St. James Evangelical Lutheran Church is inviting the community to its annual Red Shed Ham and Corn Roast on Thursday, Aug. 20.

Thick wildfire smoke drifting into southern Ontario from forest fires in northwestern Ontario forced the Township of Wilmot to postpone events, move programming indoors and adjust outdoor work schedules as air quality deteriorated between July 15 and 17.

There are many good seats available with one month remaining to file nominations papers in upcoming municipal-election races.

Over 200 people turned out on July 15 to ask questions about the future Homelessness Support Centre (HSC) in Woodstock.