01/19/2026
Community over cynicism. Last week's āHespeler is Homeā networking event on January 12 at Homewood Suites brought neighbours, business owners, and four elected reps under one roof to connect, share a meal, win a mountain of prizes, and raise money for the Cambridge Food Bank. My opening message was simple: letās trade mudslinging for respectful conversationsābecause most of us want the same things for our families and our town. (And no, nobody hates puppies. š)
š¤ Quick hits from the mic:
⢠Helen Shwery (Ward 1): motion to explore more plows/salters so residential streets/sidewalks are better served in winter.
⢠Mike Devine (Ward 2): a vivid tour of Hespeler historyāfrom industrial rivers to heritage rivers.
⢠Jess Dixon (MPP): Hespeler-based office, āwarm hand-offā casework, committee work, and a prevention-focused report she authored.
⢠Matt Strauss (MP): removing barriers for skilled people to serve here and an invite to bring āthis doesnāt make senseā issues to his office.
Huge thanks to our generous prize sponsors, Homewood Suites for hosting, and everyone who donated. Nights like this are why Hespeler is Home.
Intro starts at 0:05
Helen Shwery (Ward 1 Councillor) 2:21
Mike Devine (Ward 2 Councillor) 4:37
Jess Dixon (MPP Kitchener-South/Hespeler) 8:10
Matt Strauss (MP Kitchener-South/Hespeler) 15:22
Closing Remarks 19:30
A night for neighboursānot mudslinging.At our lucky 13th āHespeler is Homeā networking night, we packed the room to meet, eat, win prizes, raise funds for th...