James (Jim) Schmidt

James (Jim) Schmidt has been a printer, publisher, author, firefighter, bandsman, community activist and promoter of his hometown of Ayr, Ontario.

The Ayr News had been purchased by his father and uncle in 1913 and Schmidt began as an apprentice in 1942. In 1968, he became the sole owner, publisher and editor of this independent weekly newspaper. Although Schmidt still has a chair at The Ayr News, the operation of the printing and publishing company is now handled by the family as it enters the second 100 years of family ownership.

Schmidt has served his local community and Waterloo Region. He has been a tireless promoter of enhancements to community services including water and sewage systems, arenas, community centres and parks. A local park bears his name in recognition of his service. Schmidt served as a volunteer firefighter in North Dumfries Township for more than 50 years, including 17 years as Chief.

In 1997 Schmidt authored a book on the history of Ayr and The Ayr News, upon the 100thanniversary of the newspaper and another book in 2013 – 100 Year Trip with the Schmidt Family and the Ayr News Weekly Newspaper. In 2006 he wrote a book on The Ayr Band for its 50thanniversary which he cofounded in 1956.

In 1993 Schmidt was honoured with the Gold Quill award by the Canadian Community Newspaper Association in recognition of 50 years of service, and in 2002 he received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in recognition of volunteer service and community building. On his retirement from the Fire Department he received the Fire Marshal of Ontario 50 year Long Service Award and the Government of Canada Exemplary Service Medal.