For today’s #WaybackWedneday, the Archives are showcasing Uncle Jack riding his penny-farthing bicycle in the Calithumpian Parade, dressed a clown. A penny-farthing is a high-wheeled bicycle that was popular in the 1870s and 1880s. Known for their speed and relatively smooth ride, these bicycles also came with risks -- riders could easily be thrown forward over the handlebars if they braked too quickly or hit a large rock. Image: Uncle Jack riding penny-farthing in Calithumpian Parade – after (COA158 Pound family fonds) (fb)

Participation in the 2026 Budget Survey grew by 36%, with more than 1,550 Oxford County residents sharing their input and over 720 comments to help guide the 2026 Business Plan and Budget. Survey results ranked Paramedic Services as the #1 community priority across Oxford. Other top-ranked County services included: • Affordable housing • Municipal infrastructure (roads, bridges, and stormwater) • Long-term care • Waste management (curbside garbage and recycling collection) Most respondents said they would like to see current service levels maintained in these areas. The Draft 2026 Business Plan and Budget will be released on November 7 as part of the County Council agenda package. Download the budget package after that date at www.oxfordcounty.ca/your-government/financial-policy/business-plans-and-budgets/ or on Speak Up, Oxford! Find more budget highlights on Speak Up, Oxford! at www.oxfordcounty.ca/2026budget (fb)