Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show
The Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Caradoc Townsend Mutual Insurance, is thrilled to announce the return of the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show to the CIBC Auditorium at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds from Feb. 28 to March 2.
“We are proud to present the second annual show after the success of last year,” said Renee VanKooten, President of the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce in a media release. “This year’s expanded edition will feature over 100 exhibitors, showcasing a diverse range of home improvement solutions and lifestyle inspirations for Norfolk County residents.”
The Chamber’s annual spring show returned in 2024 with a new look and new vibe, said Karen Matthews, Executive Director, Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce.
“We rebranded it as the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show, and really tried to focus on people having the opportunity to fall in love with their houses again,” said Matthews. “So if there are things that need to be done, like upkeeping, or if you’re painting… we’re bringing all those things under one roof.”
It will include vendor booths on everything from plumbing to painting, furnaces, windows and doors to interior design, internet providers… whatever you need for your home, it’s pretty much guaranteed to
On Saturday afternoon, Feb. 22, from 4 to 7 p.m., over one hundred persons, babies to seniors in groups of 24 teams undertook either to walk a 2 km or 5 km cold and windy route in Simcoe starting from and returning to Riversyde 83 on Sydenham Street.
The goal of the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk is to raise resources to help youth, supporting programs which are committed to the help of youth through the development of relationships that nurture the whole person.
On the morning of Feb. 22, Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk had already raised almost $33,000 and more expected soon from those who came for the walk and others willing to donate to the Mission of Youth Unlimited.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Chilly walk raises awareness for hurting, homeless, hungry
CHRIS ABBOTT Advocate Editor
It was going to be a chilly walk and they had chili waiting when they returned, said Eric Haverkamp from Church Out Serving to the 100-plus people walking in Saturday’s Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser in Simcoe, organized by Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk.
Held across Canada for various charities, Coldest Night of the Year walks first started in 2011. Simcoe’s Coldest Night of the Year began in 2019, first from Evergreen Heights, then the Real Canadian Superstore, and now starting and finishing at Riversyde 83.
“It is a great peer-to-peer fundraising campaign and it’s doing a really great job of advocating for the hurting, homeless and hungry in our community,” said
Dan Avey, Director of Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk, noting it is their largest fundraiser of the year.
Saturday night’s event, which had raised more than $34,000 as of Monday morning, was the largest ever in Simcoe in terms of people walking the 2-km and 5-km routes.
“We had a lot of walk-up registrations today, people who wanted to be part of it, but did not fundraise,” said Avey.
Pre-registration was over 100 people, including families and teams.
“We’re probably at 120130 registered walkers, at least.”
Funds raised in Norfolk go to an ongoing Youth Unlimited YFC lunchtime program, with hot lunches twice a week, and the weekly Teen Link Wellness program which teaches youth about mental health, first aid, suicide interven-
tion, healthy relationships, and stress management.
“Our Robinson Street (admin and teaching) location – that’s where we are doing the Teen Link program (12 Robinson) - has truly become a resource for this community,” said Avey. “We’re in the process of looking for other opportunities to teach kids empathy for those that are hurting, homeless and hungry in the community.
“It’s only been opened since August and we have given away over 200 coats out of there,” he noted.
Youth Unlimited YFC, which also operates a youth centre at 32 Union, currently has a staff of four.
With temperatures in the minus double digits Celsius on Saturday, it was close to the actual coldest night of the year for Simcoe walkers. The wind was blowing on their walk up and down Norfolk Street.
“I tell everyone to share whatever they have learned. You want to share how cold it is, and just imagine if you were living on the street.
“It is very fitting because there are people out there that are walking in this… without coats, without shoes, without shirts, and as I am on record saying, ‘We’re all one decision away from being homeless.’ It might take a million other decisions to make it, but it’s that ‘first decision’ that leads us there.”
On Wednesday, Avey had walked around the downtown area with his junior high program, showing them services available in the community.
“And that was colder,” he smiled.
Participants from Open Doors Norfolk walked on Thursday.
“The Lions Club being a part of today really makes me happy,” Avey said to participants, “as well as all the churches.”
Simcoe Lions Club repre-
CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
BOARD OF DIRECTOR OPPORTUNITY
If you are passionate about mental health and addiction wellness and have a track record of Board engagement in business, public or non-profit sectors, we have an exciting opportunity for you to apply to serve on our Board of Directors. Directors are elected for a two (2) year term.
Board members advise, govern, oversee policy and direction, and assist with the leadership and general promotion of South Coast Wellness Addictions and Mental Health (SCW) services throughout the Haldimand and Norfolk counties. Responsibilities include:
• Leading the vision and strategic priorities for SCW.
• Promoting SCW mission and programs to the community.
• Being responsible for the fiduciary and governance oversight of the organization.
Board meetings are held from 5:15-7:15 pm in Simcoe on the second Wednesday of each month, 10 months of the year. Dinner is provided.
Directors must have resided, been employed, or carried on business in Haldimand or Norfolk County for a continuous period of three (3) months immediately prior to election.
South Coast Wellness Addictions and Mental Health
76 Victoria St., Suite 1
Simcoe, ON N3Y 1L5
If you are interested in this rewarding volunteer opportunity, please visit the SCW website to complete an application. www.southcoastwellness.org
Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk’s annual Coldest Night of the Year raised funds for Youth Unlimited programs, and raised awareness advocating for the hurting, homeless and hungry in the community.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Chilly walk raises awareness for hurting, homeless, hungry
sentatives included Lion Rob Goold (president), Lion Gord Rollo (community outreach) and Lion Dave Abbey (past-president), who all walked the 5-km route.
“We went to it last year and this year, and I went to zone (meetings) and tried to challenge more service clubs to be here,” said Goold. “It’s such a great charity.”
“A good part of Lionism is just giving back into your community,” said Abbey. “There is certainly such a big need with the homeless people too.”
“I tried to get the Rotary and Kinsmen to come, too,” said Rollo.
“A year ago we donated money from the club directly to the cause,” Abbey noted, “but this year, this was individuals who got sponsors… so it’s not taxing any of our regular fundraising.”
Many of the local Lions donated funds to walkers, said Rollo.
“I was getting some calls last night!”
The cold temperatures did not seem to phaze the Lions.
“You just get used to it,” said Goold.
“You’re just walking and talking,” nodded Abbey. “Except Rob…”
“I’m a speed walker,” Goold laughed. “I was the first one (5-km) back.
Top individual fundraisers included Eva Dickson, Anna de Rijk, Lisa Cooper, and Suzanne and Dan Avey. Top teams included Ebenezer Youth Group, Norfolk Youth Centre, Citrine Counselling, Chapel Commanders, and First Baptist Frost Bites.
“I want to add my appreciation for everyone that came out today,” said Eric Haverkamp from Church Out Serving. “Homelessness is a really big issue, and growing, so to have so many people in this room have a heart and passion for that cause, and to care and love, and to increase awareness about this whole homelessness issue… thank you for being concerned and participating in events like this, which Youth for Christ has organized, and let’s just keep up the good fight for all the people, all our neighbours, who are homeless.
“We run the shelter, the only (cold) shelter in Haldimand-Norfolk actually,” Haverkamp added. “We feed the hungry and we drop in at the tent encampments in the summertime, and we know homelessness is becoming more and more of a concern. These are people who are losing their jobs, their homes. Economic circumstances are tough right now, so there’s a lot of new homelessness.”
chris@granthaven.com
BOBBI ANN BRADY
Norfolk’s CNOY raises
$33,000
CNOY walkers were incredibly positive on their Cold Night of the Year experience. After the family-friendly fundraising walk, Riversyde 83 Café Eatery supplied the walkers with both hot and cold beverages, and home baked chili and bread rolls that were unbelievably delicious and nourishing.
Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk’s web site is yfcnorfolk. com for more information or on the CNOY sponsor’s web site at cnoy.org/Simcoe.
For both the donors who wish to add donations and youth who are experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness, you can call 226-440-2882 or send an email to dan.a@yfcnorfolk.com and speak to Daniel Avey or Nikita Long.
EDITORIAL
Grant Haven Media partners with Paris Independent Paris’ online newspaper will launch print edition in March
By Stewart Grant FROM THE PUBLISHER'S DESK
“Start the Presses!” was the big headline in the Saturday, Feb. 15 online edition of The Paris Independent, as managing editor Casandra Turnbull broke the exciting news to her hometown that their newspaper would be available for the first time in print format on Wednesday, March 19.
Effective March 1, the Paris Independent becomes the 11th newspaper under our Grant Haven Media banner as we continue to follow our mandate of “restoring local journalism, one community at a time.”
I have admired the work of the Paris Independent for over a year; ever since our company expanded into Brant County in January 2024 with the purchase of the Brant Farms publication. The Paris Independent, like the St. Marys Independent in my hometown, developed locally in response to failures of the media conglomerates to safeguard local news reporting. Three years after St. Marys saw the closure of its Journal-Argus, Paris lost its Star.
Paris Independent founder Chris Whelan wrote in his history column this week about the rich history of journalism in Paris.
“The Paris Star, a stalwart publication, stood as a testament to the town’s commitment to news dissemination… Had fate been kinder, the Paris Star would have celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2025. Alas, the echoes of its presses fell silent in 2020, hushed by the hand of Post-
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
Publisher
Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com
Editor
Chris Abbott • chris@granthaven.com
Graphic Design / Sales Inquiries
Sarah Leavoy • info@simcoeadvocate.com
Business Development
Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com Administration
Jen Gaetan • jen@granthaven.com
Contributors
Alex Hunt, Lisa Timpf, Paul Knowles
36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 info@simcoeadvocate.com | 519.655.2341 | granthaven.com
media.”
Though Postmedia had closed the Paris Star during the pandemic, along with 14 other community newspapers, a grassroots campaign began the following year to fill this void. “Throughout the majority of 2021, our community endured a notable absence of a vital communication channel precisely when it was most needed,” recalled Whelan, who put a call on social media hoping to find like-minded people to help launch a new digital publication. “The outpouring of support was truly overwhelming, notably from key figures such as Casandra, the former editor of The Paris Star until 2011.”
The first edition of the online Paris Independent was launched in September of 2021. For each of the last 180 weeks, Whelan, Turnbull, and the rest of their Paris-based team have put out a digital newspaper, building up a loyal following of over 2,000 readers. Still, an online paper has its limitations. It’s not something that you can see or be aware of when you are walking the streets of Paris and visiting the stores, restaurants, or coffee shops.
Last month, I met with Chris for lunch at the Cobblestone Public House in Paris and suggested that we establish a partnership with the goal of converting the Paris In-
dependent into a print publication so that it may make an even greater impact to its community, with a more visible presence and a powerful new distribution model.
Following our meeting, Chris, who I’ve found quickly to be a kindred spirit, consulted with Casandra who agreed that this was the perfect time to take their newspaper in this direction.
“This was always our end goal,” said Casandra of a print edition. “When we started the Paris Independent, we promised the community that if it was viable, one day we would roll out a print edition. With a strong online presence and digital footprint, it's only natural that we take that next step in growth and publish a weekly edition that will reach stores, businesses and community centres across Paris. Even as the community has adjusted to digital news, we still get the occasional question, 'where can I pick up a copy?' There will always be a longing for a print edition, something tangible to hold in your hands and flip the pages as you digest what is happening in your own backyard.”
The presses will begin to roll soon, with the first print edition being delivered to Paris on March 19, while also being available online at www.granthaven.com.
Some of the Paris Independent team got together at the Paris Inn recently to plan for the first print edition and beyond. From left are George Le Gresley (Sports Reporter), Michelle Malvaso (Photographer), Stewart Grant (Publisher), Casandra Turnbull (Managing Editor), and Chris Whelan (Editor).
(CINDY WHELAN PHOTO)
Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show returns CIBC Auditorium
February 28 to March 2
be there.
The lifestyle element was a natural fit for the three-day show.
“We have the coolest lifestyle ever in Norfolk County, so it gives people the chance to explore some of the options that we have here.”
Matthews noted the appeal of Norfolk’s clothing retailers, and they will focus on that Friday evening with a fashion show coordinated by Cindy Vandestar, who owns two clothing stores in Port Dover.
“There will be fashions there from several local stores,” said Matthews. “And a few booths. Lifestyles is about how you look and how you feel, so we’ll have that. There are so many things to explore that some people don’t necessarily know about.”
Norfolk County booth promoting their tourism app… There will be a theatre booth to announce their new season, and a and much, much more.
Sponsors
The Chamber has extended its gratitude to Caradoc Townsend Mutual Insurance, the event’s title sponsor.
"We are thrilled to sponsor this year's Home & Lifestyle Show, celebrating our community and local businesses while highlighting the best our region has to offer. We can't wait to see everyone there!" said Cheryl Woolvett, Manager of Agency and Business Development.
Additional support comes from RBC and RBC Wealth Management, the presenting sponsors of the event stage, which will feature three days of engaging demonstrations.
“We couldn’t do it without our partners,” said Matthews.
Last year’s vendors were surveyed and 95% of them said they wanted to come back in 2025 because the 2024 event was so successful.
“We rejigged the show layout so we could get more booths in because we had such a demand,” said Matthews.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
Friday, 6:30 p.m. Fashion Show
Cindy Vanderstar of Second to None (Port Dover) presents a fashion show featuring local models dressed in styles from her store and Main Station (Simcoe).
Saturday, 11 a.m. Tiny Homes Presentation & Q&A
Suite Builders will showcase the growing trend of Tiny Homes, followed by a Q&A session with Norfolk County representatives.
“Everyone is looking at those additional dwelling units, whether they can or can’t put them on their property,” said Matthews. “So this is a chance to learn about them and the regulations…”
Saturday, 1 & 3 p.m. Grill
Master Ted Reader
Presented by Aspira Retirement Living, celebrity chef Ted Reader will wow the audience with live grilling demonstrations - one on burgers and another on steaks!
“We have Ted Reader coming in Saturday afternoon – he’s a Grill Master Chef,” said Matthews. “He’ll be showing you how to prep and get things together to make the best burgers and steaks. He’ll go through the different cuts of meat, and the pros and cons of those. It’s going to be interesting.”
Sunday, 11 a.m. Grow Your Own Food
Learn about sustainable gardening from Sarah Judd of Meadow Lynn Gardens.
Sunday is ‘gardening day’ at the show, and Judd will talk about “growing your own food” including how you can get your plants started.
Sunday, 1 p.m. Frankie Flowers Returns!
Thanks to Eising’s Garden Centre, Canada’s favourite gardening expert, Frankie Flowers, will be back by popular demand.
“Back by very popular demand,” said Matthews. “Frankie Flowers, (Frank Ferragine) from City TV, is a gardening expert. He was super popular last year so we brought him back,” said Matthews. “He will be focusing on gardening and trends.
“People that know him, know him and love him. He’s hilarious, and very popular.”
Special Features
Emerging Entrepreneurs Pop-Up Shop – in partnership with MHN Lawyers, young business leaders will showcase their innovations.
Grand Prize Giveaway! Everyone who enters has a chance to win a $2,000 travel voucher for Resorts in Ontario, courtesy of Kate Stratford at South Coast World Travel.
Admission
Admission is $5 per person (kids and students FREE), available at the door. For more information visit simcoechamber.on.ca online.
Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to join them for an inspiring weekend celebrating Norfolk’s best in home, design, and lifestyle.
Showcasing the future of Canadian comedy on stage
Lighthouse Festival is launching its new Play Development Festival, a three-day exclusive event March 3-5, showcasing the future of Canadian comedy on stage.
Taking place at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover, the festival will provide theatre lovers an opportunity to witness brand-new comedic works in their early stages and engage directly with talented playwrights shaping the next generation of theatre.
Patrons will enjoy full read-throughs, followed by behind-the-scenes talk-back and feedback sessions where they can share their thoughts and insights with the creative teams. This festival is a rare chance to experience the evolution of theatre firsthand, meet the writers from the Play Development program, and be part of the creative process.
Festival Lineup
- March 3 (2:30-5:30 p.m.)
Pinkerton Comes to Prospect by Jamie Williams
- March 4 (2:30-5:30 p.m.)
Baby Steps by Matt Gorman
- March 5th (2:30-5:30 p.m.)
Secret Service by Ephraim Ellis
“This is a thrilling new initiative for Lighthouse Festival, and we’re absolutely delighted to invite our audience into the exciting world of play development,” said Artistic Director Jane Spence in a media release. “Not only will our patrons get a first look at these incredible new works, but they’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the process of shaping the stories that will grace our stages in the future.”
By attending, theatre enthusiasts will be among the first to discover and support emerging voices in Canadian theatre. The festival will foster a vibrant, creative environment where patrons can connect with fellow theatre lovers, donors, and artists.
“As our new Play Development Festival, this is a landmark moment for Lighthouse Festival,” said Spence. “We are committed to nurturing new talent, and this initiative is a major step in supporting fresh storytelling and ensuring the continued vibrancy of Canadian theatre.”
To secure a seat, a minimum $50 donation will grant access for one person and a guest. Contributions directly support Lighthouse Festival’s mission to foster new playwrights, fund creative development, and bring fresh voices to the stage. In addition, donors will receive a tax-deductible receipt for the 2025 tax year.
Join Lighthouse Festival in celebrating the future of Canadian theatre at this extraordinary event.
For more information or to make a donation, visit lighthousetheatre.com/play-development-festival/ or contact the box office at 888-779-7703.
LIGHTHOUSE FESTIVAL
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. It strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two towns on Lake Erie, the theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability for all.
‘Great success’ of measles booster clinic offers hope
J.P. ANTONACCI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A measles outbreak in the Grand Erie region shows no signs of slowing, with nine new confirmed cases as of Feb. 20.
That brings the total this year to 57 cases, mostly in unvaccinated children in Norfolk County.
But in a glimmer of hope, a vaccine clinic in Burford on Monday drew double the expected number of residents, suggesting the health unit’s efforts to encourage early vaccination against the highly contagious disease are paying off.
Interim medical officer of health Dr. Malcolm Lock called the clinic in Brant County “a great success,” with 43 people choosing to be immunized against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
“Most of those were children,” Lock told reporters during a conference call. “The expectation was around 20, and we doubled that.”
Health officials say 23 doses went to kids between the ages of one and four, while four infants under a year old got an early booster shot to reduce their risk of contracting the disease.
The strong community response “reflects that at least some of the population are paying attention” to the rare but serious potential health complications of measles, Lock said.
“I think this is an indication that the messaging we’re sending out is having some impact, and it’s good to see that the clinics are well-attended.”
Health Canada has expanded eligibility for MMR boosters for infants between six and 11 months old, ahead of the usual first dose just after the child’s first birthday.
And instead of waiting until they turn four, children can now get a second dose as soon as four weeks after their first shot.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine provides nearly total lifelong protection against infection, health officials say.
Of the nine new confirmed measles cases announced in Grand Erie, two people were in hospital while the rest are recovering at
home.
Walsingham Christian School, a private religious school in Norfolk, made its third appearance on the list of locations where people could have been exposed to the measles virus, which can hang in the air for several hours after an infected person coughs, sneezes or breathes.
The school was a potential exposure site on Feb. 10, with exposure also possible at Norfolk General Hospital in Simcoe on Feb. 14 between 3:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
In an earlier interview, the principal of Walsingham Christian School said the school follows all health unit directives and sends home educational material on the importance of vaccination.
“We have more students sick than are actually confirmed measles cases,” Martin Klassen told The Hamilton Spectator, adding “a majority” of the school’s 175 students are fully vaccinated, while some are missing a second MMR dose.
Health officials say 95 per cent vaccination coverage is needed for herd immunity against measles.
While the school officially was in outbreak, the health unit ordered unvaccinated students whose families decline immunization to stay home during the virus’ 21-day quarantine period after an exposure.
Klassen said at one point, 15 to 18 per cent of the student body was either off sick or in quarantine.
“We are aware that this is very disruptive,” Lock said, adding the health unit tries to make getting kids vaccinated “as easy as possible for the parents” by hosting booster clinics on-site for students and staff during school hours.
For more information about measles, including signs, symptoms, and what to do if you believe you may have been exposed to the measles virus, visit www.bchu.org/ measles or www.hnhu.org/measles.
J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
Weekend Quiz
1. What mathematical holiday is celebrated annually on March 14th? 2. What is generally more powerful: a 12-gauge shotgun or a 20-gauge shotgun?
3. What is the northernmost country capital in the world?
What is the currency of Japan? 5. Who played Amanda Woodward on the TV show Melrose Place?
6. What version of the iPhone is being released this week?
7. How many U.S. states start with the letter A?
8. What Canadian female singer hit the music charts with a cover of John Denver’s hit song “Leaving on a Jet Plane”?
9. What element on the periodic table is represented by the letter K?
10. Who scored the winning goal for Canada at the recent 4 Nations Face-Off final?
Simcoe Lions Club members, from left, Lion Gord Rollo, Lion Dave Abbey, and Lion Rob Goold walked 5 km Saturday evening, helping to raise funds for the annual Coldest Night of the Year event in Simcoe, organized by Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk.
Vandan looks forward to working with Bonnie Crombie; Leader of the Provincial Liberals, on behalf of all Ontarians to;
• Make life more affordable
• Address health care issues and doctor shortages
• Address affordable housing
• Provide a proper education system for all children
• Implement programs for our environment regarding climate change
But let’s not forget: The Ford Government’s ongoing RCMP Greenbelt investigation.
Ford’s recent admission supporting Trump.
By Stewart & Sydney Grant
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
County to consider seeking federal dollars for Port Dover Northwest Booster Station
LUKE EDWARDS Advocate Correspondent
Norfolk is once again running up against a four units as-of-right requirement as it looks to apply for funding from upper levels of government.
Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada recently launched the first stream of its $6 billion Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF). The goal of the fund is to provide financial support for environmental infrastructure in the form of water, wastewater, stormwater and solid waste, which can in turn lead to an increase in housing supply.
According to a report, staff say they believe they can put together a good application and have suggested the Port Dover Northwest Booster Station as an ideal project. However, eligibility requirements include two criteria of note. The first - a requirement to include four units as-of-right - is a familiar one that has hampered funding applications in the past.
“CHIF requires municipal applicants with a population of greater than 30,000 to implement or be in the process of implementing zoning changes that allow four units as-of-right,” the report said. “In the application, if not already implemented, municipalities would further have to specify how they will be implementing the
change.”
This came up during talks of the second phase of the Housing Accelerator Fund. Under that program, there was an exemption opportunity, which Norfolk sought. However, they were unsuccessful, leaving them ineligible to receive HAF dollars.
Staff say there would have to be study and a public process to implement four units as-of-right.
There’s also the possibility that four units as-of-right isn’t as drastic as it sounds.
“Is there enough cushion in the zoning bylaw that people don’t get the impression that every lot in the urban area, residential zone is automatically able to put in four residential units?” asked Coun. Chris Van Paassen, suggesting zoning bylaw requirements such as setbacks, lot coverages and capacity might reduce the number of properties that would be automatically eligible to build four units.
“The answer to the question, directly, I guess, is maybe,” replied General Manager of Community Development Services Brandon Sloan, adding staff will have to do a more careful review to get a better handle on what it would mean.
The second criterion staff raised is the requirement for municipalities with populations larger than 30,000 to put a three-year freeze on development charge fees. As a
single-tier municipality, Norfolk would be exempt from this requirement.
“Notwithstanding, it is important to consider the impact a requirement like this could have if it was placed upon Norfolk,” the report read. “While it is the Ministry’s opinion that costs of development charges are a major driver of the inflation of home prices across Canada, at a municipal level, development charges play a vital role in enabling housing by funding the costs of growth-related infrastructure.”
The current stream of the CHIF program provides as maximum of 40 per cent of the cost of the proposed project. Staff estimate the booster station project would cost a total of $10 million.
“Staff believe this project may be a strong candidate based on the program guidelines because its construction will relieve a holding provision relating to insufficient water pressure and fire flows placed on a nearby draft plan of subdivision, directly enabling 449 housing units,” the report said, though it also pointed out the project is not currently in the approved capital budget.
A second stream through the CHIF is expected, which could provide more enhanced funding. The report said it could provide some municipalities with funding for 73 per cent of the project, though it’s unclear how much Norfolk would be eli-
Land swap gives county better parking in Port Dover
Councillors direct staff
to explore options to mitigate neighbour concerns
LUKE EDWARDS Advocate Correspondent
A proposed land trade will provide Port Dover with a new parking lot, though nearby residents are worried about the impacts it will have on them.
Councillors approved a report that recommended going ahead with a land swap that would see Norfolk County dispose of the land where its Clinton Street parking lot is located, and acquire an ‘enhanced’ parking lot on St. Andrew Street. The approval did come with direction to staff to look for ways to address concerns over noise, lighting and traffic that were brought up by nearby residents.
“(It) would result in the County ending up with a larger and more enhanced municipal parking lot at no additional cost,” said Karen Lambrecht, a realty services specialist for the municipality.
An earlier deputation expressed
some concerns about how it would affect neighbouring property owners. General Manager of Community Development Brandon Sloan said mitigating measures for those concerns would be primarily addressed at site plan control, which the County uses to ensure projects meet certain criteria but which also is not a public process.
“So through site plan you can deal with lighting. You can deal with the landscaping, drainage, how the parking lot is configured, the function of it. If there’s anything about access points, garbage etc., that would follow the site plan process,” he said.
Specifically, Sloan said staff would look at privacy fencing as a main way to address concerns. Ensuring compliance with the lighting bylaw would also help mitigate concerns, he said, and the County could also look at landscaping options.
“I guess the one that may not be directly addressed would be the noise of people closing doors, etc.,” he said.
Coun. Chris Van Paassen put forward a motion directing staff to focus on ways to address the community’s concerns, as well as any others that might come up. Staff already take this approach through the site plan process, but the motion gives a little extra push, and may put neighbours a little more at ease, councillors said.
Under the agreement, the “St. Andrew Street property is being acquired by the County after a fully completed enhanced turn-key parking lot is constructed, to the satisfaction of the County, at the seller’s total expense,” according to the report.
The Clinton Street lot, meanwhile, will be transferred to the private owner in an “as is” condition.
gible for. Should that stream come online, treasurer Amy Fanning said staff would look at much larger projects for consideration.
In addition to requesting endorsement of the booster station, the report also recommended the mayor and/or deputy mayor send a letter to the Federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities that describes the challenges communities like Norfolk face regarding blanket four units as-of-right zoning provisions.
New green space coming to Waterford
LUKE EDWARDS Advocate Correspondent
A new park in Waterford is coming with a price tag no municipality could turn away… free.
The developer of the Villages of Waterford project will be building a green space/park area and handing it over to Norfolk for no cost. According to a staff report presented at the Feb. 11 meeting, the developer has decided against building homes in the southwest corner of the property, and approached the County with the proposal.
The 2.2-acre parcel also includes a small area that has been identified as a former Indigenous campsite that was used to make stone tools. This section is considered “significant archaeological resources that have been identified for ongoing conservation,” according to the report.
Coun. Chris Van Paassen asked if the County could do something to recognize that history, such as a plaque, though CAO Al Meneses said they discussed options with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, who expressed their preference to leave it as green space.
“They have specifically requested there be no plaque there,” Meneses said.
“They like the idea of a passive space.”
The plan for the rest of the area includes a play structure, two benches, two picnic tables, grading and seeding for sections that require restoration in the northwest corner of the park, as well as plugging and burying a drainage pipe in that same area.
All of this will be paid for by the developer.
Chris Van Paassen, Ward 4 Councillor
Heritage association to host pavilion fundraiser in May ‘Buoying up the spirits’ of Port Rowan fishing families
A piece of the area’s fishing history will soon be on public display for all to see.
Norfolk County council approved a request from the Port Rowan/South Walsingham Heritage Association to have them build a pavilion at Port Rowan Lions Park. Once complete, the pavilion will house the Becker Puller, a device invented by a local man and which was once used by people working in the area’s fishing sector.
“It is our hope as a heritage association that the people who use the Lions Park in Port Rowan would gain a greater understanding of this fascinating local history,” said association member Heather Smith in a presentation to council at the Feb. 11 meeting that sought approvals.
Councillors were eager to support the project, not just for the chance to showcase a piece of local history but also because of the price tag associated with the project. Under the proposal, the heritage association would cover all the costs of the capital project. The county would only have to cover the future operating and maintenance costs, as well as insurance. Together, staff estimate it would be less than $1,000 a year.
The association also requested waiving of the building fee permits.
“I just want to tell you this was a wonderful deputation that was incredibly fascinating and really well delivered. And you’ve checked all the boxes because you’re not asking for money and you have a wonderful plan,” said Coun. Alan Duthie.
Invented and patented by Port Rowan’s Charlie Becker, the puller was at one time a popular device used by local shore-based fishing families and businesses to pull in their fishing nets. The device the association hopes to showcase was actually brought in from Gravelly Bay and Smith said is unique in that it remains largely unchanged from its original state.
“It wasn’t used at Gravelly Bay into the present era so it remains very original, it hasn’t been modified very much,” Smith said.
“So this one is quite original, which is great for us.”
Alongside the artifact, Smith said they hope to provide some information to visitors on Becker as well as how his machine worked. Becker had an interesting life beyond inventing his puller. He was the great grandson of a United Empire Loyalist, ran undertaking, furniture and gun repair businesses in the area, and invented other devices, including an automatic weatherstrip for doors, the folding ironing board and a stove pipe damper.
His great aunt was Abigail Becker, known as the Heroine of Long Point, so named because she is reputed to have saved the lives of eight sailors who were shipwrecked during a nasty Lake Erie storm in 1854.
Even before getting approvals and starting the project, Smith said discussions have been met with excitement locally.
“We’re really kind of buoying up the spirit of fisherman families because their history is being celebrated,” Smith said.
Once built, the County will take over ownership of the pavilion, though Smith said the heritage association will retain ownership of the puller. The cost of the project is estimated to be $87,000. The association is targeting funding support from a few foundations and service clubs and have received a letter of support from the Long Point Lions Club.
They’ll also be hosting fundraising events, including one planned for May 31 at the Port Rowan Legion. It’ll include music from local performers as well as a silent auction. There will also be food, including a stew that Smith said is a local delicacy.
DOUGLER STEW
A dougler is a white fish that was caught in seine nets, says Smith.
“It was sometimes cooked in a pot placed in the cooling reservoir of (an engine) used to haul in the nets. It's a vegetable base that is cooked for a few hours and then the cleaned fish is placed on top of the boiling stew only until the fish is cooked. This has been being made by fishermen and their families in Port Rowan for generations.”
According to French Cooking Academy, Fish Dugléré was a classic French fish recipe created by renowned chef Adolph Dugléré in the 1800s. Fish Dugléré is freshly filleted whitefish cooked in a fish stock that may include shallots, onions, carrots, mushrooms, and the fish bones produced during filleting. The sauce includes diced tomatoes and parsley.
LUKE EDWARDS Advocate Correspondent
Ian Bell will be one of the musical acts singing songs about history or fishing during a May 31st Port Rowan/South Walsingham Heritage Association fundraiser.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Illustrations of a machine invented and patented by Port Rowan’s Charlie Becker, the Becker Puller was at one time a popular device used by local shore-based fishing families and businesses to pull in their fishing nets.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Voters crowd the Legion to hear provincial candidates
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce, along with the Delhi Chamber of Commerce and Cornerstone Association of Realtors, hosted a Provincial Candidates Night on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at the Simcoe Legion.
“Debates play a crucial role in allowing us to understand how elected representatives will serve us,” said Renee VanKooten, President of the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce.
Primarily Norfolk County focused questions from the organizers and community were curated for the Haldimand Norfolk candidates, who did not see questions in advance. Each candidate was allowed two-minute introductions, followed by a series of questions with each candidate allowed one minute to answer, followed by an optional 30-second rebuttal or opportunity to add missed information. The event concluded in front of a jam-packed audience with a two-minute closing statements, giving everyone food for thought leading up to the Feb. 27 provincial election.
“Engaging in the electoral process is essential for a strong and informed democracy, and we encourage everyone to take part, ask questions, and most importantly – vote," said Chair-Elect Drew Hemsley, Cornerstone in advance of the Candidate Night.
The full one-hour-and-45-minutes event can be viewed on Simcoe Chamber’s YouTube page (MPP Debate 2025) https:www.youtube.com/live/vEOnOZkWwJc
. Watch it in its entirety, learn what the Haldimand Norfolk candidates stand for and what they will do at Queen’s Park for their riding.
All registered Haldimand Norfolk candidates were invited. Attending were Amy Martin (Progressive Conservative), Anna Massinen (Green), Bobbi Ann Brady (Independent), Erica Englert (NDP) and Vandan Patel (Liberal). New Blue Party candidate Garry Tanchak was unable to attend.
Introductory Remarks
NOTE: Some comments omitted in the interest of brevity. You can watch the Simcoe Chamber YouTube video for all comments.
Amy Martin (PC)
“I believe that this is the most important election in recent memory. With the continued threat of US tariffs bringing uncertainty to our economy and our livelihoods, it’s never been more important to have a strong, stable government fighting to protect Ontario. One with a strong mandate to do whatever it takes to protect our local industries like steel and agriculture that are currently under attack.
“This election is about choosing a local representative, but it’s also about choosing the next government for Ontario, the government that will be making big decisions on things that matter to you including infrastructure, healthcare, energy projects, farm support projects and programs.
“I am committed to fighting for this community. As the Mayor of Norfolk County, I have fostered a strong working
relationship with Premier Ford and the provincial government. Working together, we’ve been able to secure much needed funding for infrastructure projects like the replacement of the Big Creek bridge in Long Point, all the way through to wastewater treatment plant upgrades in Port Dover. But external advocacy by a municipal leader, like myself, can only go so far. Our community needs a representative that is part of the next provincial government so we can deliver on the priorities of Haldimand Norfolk that are important to you all.
“As your MPP, I will bring the same energy that I have applied to municipal politics to ensure our local, unique voice is heard at Queen’s Park, while also helping the Premier protect Ontario.”
Anna Massinen (Green)
“I believe that with the right government, we can have a province that is affordable, and safe, and inclusive. We can have Norfolk County free of urban sprawl, a place that is prosperous – our small businesses are prosperous – where are families can afford to live.
“We have a government now that is squandering your tax dollars on things that you don’t want, things that you don’t need, like highways through the Greenbelt, and mega spas that we probably can’t afford to attend.
“Right now, in Ontario… things are as bad probably as they’ve ever been. We have 81,000 homeless people, we have more people using food banks than ever, we have a mental health and addictions crisis. We could do so much better in this rich province, in this rich country. We need a government that cares about the people – all the people, and not just lining the pockets of developers.”
Bobbi Ann Brady (Independent)
“I commend you all for being part of the democratic process and I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that I have an incredible working relationship at Queen’s Park, not only with the PCs, but with Liberal interim leader John Fraser, many of the NDP members, and of course the Green Party’s Mike Schreiner. Working together is so important to getting the best results.
“Tonight, I am the only candidate on the ballot with 25 years experience and working relationships. I am the candidate who will be accountable to only you, the tax payer.
“Nobody handed me a playbook for tonight, my answers come from 25 years of experience and working alongside you.
For the past two-and-a-half years I have gone to Queen’s Park to speak up for you, and that is a threat to those who don’t want you to know that developers, special interests, lobby and corporate greed are running and ruining our province. We are in an unnecessary $185 million election where tariffs are a distraction.
“Five people have attempted to silence me over the past year – four councillors in Haldimand because I say no to a city of 40,000 at the Nanticoke Industrial Park. And of course, the Mayor, the PC candidate who has shut me out of meetings to make me look insignificant… she wants my job.
“You deserve a champion for you, some-
one who can pull us together, not drive us apart. Power must always be used wisely.”
Erica Englert (NDP)
“You might notice I don’t look like what you would expect a politician to look like. I am a 19-year-old criminology student with green hair. At the same time, I hope you will take the time to listen to what I have to say.
“This election, even though it is a snap election, even though it’s coming from a lot of selfish interests, is still incredibly important to follow. We have felt the impacts of the Ford government’s cuts, and the issues unique to us in rural communities. We are facing the brunt of these cuts. At the same time, our needs are being overlooked.
“Organizing, meeting people, mobilizing at the grassroots level, is what got me into politics. Even in a campus club, in a campus setting, or in organizations such as Pride, things like that, that’s advocacy. That’s what I am. I am an advocate and I am ready to advocate in Queen’s Park.
“If elected, I will continue to advocate for Haldimand Norfolk, for hospitals and long term care facilities funding, to social assistance, to protecting our workforce and beyond. I believe that the small town value of looking out for one another is something to be applied to political conversations and not just personal ones.
“Basic needs and rights are not to be taken away at the whim of a politician, so I will ensure that Ontario reinvests into the systems, institutions and industries that allow us to thrive. I will make sure that Haldimand Norfolk sees palpable change without losing sight of our small town values.”
Vandan Patel (Liberal)
“I am here because I believe in the future of this community, for our families, businesses and farmers. I am coming here to bring your voice to Queen’s Park.
“Agriculture is in my blood. I understand the real challenges our farmers face, and the opportunities. We must grow our local economy.
“Beyond agriculture, I have dedicated myself to public service in the Liberal Party of Canada and as a secretary of the Royal Canadian Legion in Branch 121 Galt. I have personally connected with over 100 million people and also 100 municipalities… I was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Award.
“But above all, I am a father. My daughter is in University of Waterloo, my son in Grade 9. I want them to have the best future… going to strong schools, good jobs.
“Together, we can bring the real challenge to Haldimand Norfolk and I am ready to listen to your needs, get ready for your fights, and under Bonnie Crombie, we can build a better Ontario together.”
Questions
What is your plan to reduce barriers to doing business in Ontario?
“Our small downtowns have been left behind over the years as big box stores have lined the Queensway in places like
Bobbi Ann Brady (Independent)
Erica Englert (NDP)
Vandan Patel (Liberal)
Anna Massinen (Green)
Amy Martin (PC)
Simcoe,” said Brady, suggesting a need for conversations between municipalities, Chambers and the Province with communities to gain insights and build support for development initiatives… and pedestrian friendly downtowns. “First, we need to make our downtowns safe… make sure we have adequate parking, and make sure that parking is free.”
“The big idea is we have so many big box stores, so many chain stores, and they tend to be cheaper and more accessible to people,” said Englert. “How do we mitigate that? How do we make more opportunities for small businesses? We need ways to get pedestrians out, get pedestrians closer together, but also making sure we have supports both in our government and in our society for small business owners starting businesses.”
“Small business is the backbone of our communities,” said Martin, noting the Minister of Rural Affairs came to Norfolk County to announce Rural Economic Dollars. “Norfolk County put that to good use with employee retention programs, and recruitment programs. The (Ontario) government has worked to reduce over $1 billion in red tape since 2018 and created an economic environment for more jobs – 850,000 jobs have come to Ontario since 2018, 200,000 of those came since 2024. Imagine an MPP who could bring 5% of those jobs to Haldimand Norfolk, 10,000 new jobs contributing to our economy… and the basis of this election is about protecting jobs, protecting Ontario, so it’s pretty timely.”
“So in order for our small businesses to prosper, we need to have some growth in our communities, and we can have that small growth in our communities without urban sprawl by developing land that is not being used, industrial land or plazas or warehouses into mutli-storey apartment buildings, creating density,” said Massinen.
Patel said it’s important to build supports, to have the government reach out to small businesses.
A question was asked about tariffs, and the possibility of removing or changing provincial tariffs to improve cross-Canada sales. It was noted there are 32 primary care practitioners in Norfolk County, and about 13,000 people without a medical provider. Candidates were asked for their strategies to increase the number of doctors in the county.
Candidates were also asked how they would ensure the longterm viability of smalltown rural hospitals like NGH, and reduce the strain on the emergency room.
Candidates were asked what they would do to bring significant provincial dollars here.
The urban water project was addressed, along with the development MZO in Haldimand.
Candidates what their priorities would be to make it easier for first-time home buyers. The homelessness crisis was touched on, along with public colleges and international students.
“We are proud of our strong agricultural roots, how do you view the importance of agriculture in Norfolk? And what do you see that Ontario needs to do to support and grow this sector?” candidates were asked.
The 12th question dealt with waiting lists for long term care beds.
Candidates were asked how they plan to measure their success in office if elected.
Concluding Remarks
“I have a deep-rooted passion for all of Haldimand Norfolk, not just one county,” said Brady. “And I know I am the only person up here tonight with that passion that comes from 25 years or working here right alongside all of you. Everything I’ve spoken of here tonight comes from 25 years of experience, not a playbook handed to me by Doug Ford.”
“I hope I’ve shown you my dedication to reinvesting in this province, in this riding and to advocating for our unique rural needs,” said Englert. “From jobs to affordable housing, to doctors and health care professionals, protecting the infrastructure that keeps this province alive is more necessary than ever now.”
“With the continued US tariff threat bringing uncertainty to our local economy and our livelihoods, my commitment to you is clear,” said Martin. “Premier Ford and the next PC government of Ontario will do whatever is necessary to protect people’s jobs. As your MPP, I will make sure Haldimand Norfolk gets the support we deserve.”
Martin said that for the last two-and-a-half years, Haldimand Norfolk has been represented by an MPP who is not taken seriously by decisions makers in the Ontario government.
“She has the worst attendance record out of 124 MPPs, voting only 36% of the time… voting 92% of the time with Liberals and NDPs last year.
“Haldimand Norfolk has been sitting on the sidelines and we have an opportunity to get a seat at the table and ensure that our views and our priorities and perspectives are reflected in the next provincial government,” Martin concluded.
Patel said he wanted to leave the audience with one simple but powerful example.
“Imagine holding one single wooden stick in your hand. It can break easily with just a little break. Now imagine a bundle of sticks, held tightly together, and it is nearly impossible to break,” said Patel. “This is the difference between having an Independent MPP who stands alone and being a part of one strong, united Liberal team. So when you stand together, we have the strength to protect and fight for the 110,000 residents of Haldimand Norfolk region. We can bring real solutions to the challenges we face, whether it is improved health care, strengthening our local economy or supporting our farmers. This election is about choosing a stand, choosing a leadership that doesn’t stand alone., but stands with a team… that will not break under pressure.”
“Doug Ford has wasted $187 million on calling this early election,” said Massinen. “Why do we need this election? He says it’s because he needs a strong mandate so he can protect us from Donald Trump’s tariffs. I don’t think that’s true. I think he called this early election so that he can be in power for four more years to get his agenda done, to build highways that we don’t need, to fund his pet projects… Meanwhile, he is not worried about our problems. He doesn’t care that we have 2.5 million people in Ontario without a doctor. He’d rather privatize our healthcare. He doesn’t care that 81,000 people are homeless. He doesn’t care that our schools are overcrowded, that we don’t have the support we need in mental health, the places, the beds for our seniors…
“He doesn’t care about the environment, he doesn’t care that life is not affordable. He doesn’t care that we are struggling to pay our bills,” Massinen concluded.
chris@granthaven.com
Counting backyard birds is a valuable scientific tool
JEFF TRIBE Advocate Correspondent
Sharron and Richard Skevington find every day a great one to count birds in around their six backyard feeders, whether or not it’s an ‘officially’ sanctioned global event.
“The snow came and the birds came with it,” said Richard, noting a high level of activity as Sharron records around 10 different species daily. “It’s really been great.”
The couple, which has been going through 40 kilograms of mixed, sunflower and Niger seed and suet every two weeks, receives considerable enjoyment viewing a list including blue jays, cowbirds, mourning doves - and the predatory Cooper’s hawk the latter have attracted.
What happens in their suburban backyard is certainly of interest to the Skevingtons. However, when results from like-minded citizen scientists across the globe are recorded, submitted and compiled, a valuable research data bank is created, population trends are revealed, along with potential environmental concerns.
Data is submitted in many ways, at any time, through portals including eBird Canada, a collaborative project managed by Birds Canada. But there are also special events, concentrated efforts bringing the birding community together for the equivalent of an e-blast of information.
The Great Backyard Bird Count (https:// www.birdscanada.org/bird-science/greatbackyard-bird-count) is a global initiative launched in 1998 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society and supported by Birds Canada. Coinciding with Family Day Weekend in Ontario, participants were asked to record birds seen in their backyard or other locations during a minimum 15-minute period between Feb. 14-17, although many - most in fact - go well past that baseline.
In 2024, an estimated 624,000 participants in 210 countries or subregions submitted 384,416 eBird checklists identifying 7,920 species of birds. Canada ranks third in the world behind The United States and India, with 31,151 checklists and 261 species reported.
HAWK EYES
Chad Cornish recorded 34 raptors during his Winter Raptor Survey Sunday, Dec. 22, in conjunction with the Hawk Migration Association of North America (https:// www.hawkmigration.org). Similar to Christmas bird counts, Cornish follows a consistent timeline and route annually, tak-
ing in varied agricultural, lakefront, commercial and urban habitat.
He and wife Kim travel to Port Burwell, Port Bruce, Hawk Cliff, St. Thomas’ outskirts, Dorchester, Belmont, Beachville and back to Woodstock, recording species and habitat details along with GPS co-ordinates for each sighting.
“And you just keep doing that until your route is finished,” said Chad.
A North American initiative, theirs was the only Canadian route this year, down
from three in 2024. They saw six species including 18 red-tailed hawks, which Cornish calls the ‘Swiss army knife’ of raptors.
“They can do it all, they can glide, they can soar, they can hover, they take all kinds of different prey… and they are truly magnificent to watch.”
They also recorded nine bald eagles, two rough-legged hawks, two Cooper’s hawks and two American kestrels, a species of interest due to falling numbers.
“Scientists are not sure why.”
They also spotted a peregrine falcon upon their return.
“Downtown Woodstock,” said Cornish, of a bird which can often be seen perching on the church steeple at Dundas and Mill Streets. “We’ve got one wintering here.”
Raptors are an important part of the eco-system, populations generally on the rise following a DDT ban. Some species are struggling however, due to factors including urban sprawl and habitat loss. They have a hard life, 50 per cent not making it to their second year.
“The number one reason is starvation,” says Cornish.
He also participates in an annual raptor migration site count at Holiday Beach in Amherstburg, one of 300 in North America, as well as other bird counts.
“There are lots of different projects to get involved in if anyone is interested,” Cornish said, citing Project Feeder Watch (https:// feederwatch.org) through Birds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Services Breeding Bird Survey (https://www.birdscanada. org/bird-science/breeding-bird-survey) as two additional examples.
His involvement reflects personal interest and the fact bird population trends can be, quite literally the canary in the coal mine in terms of an environmental warning.
“If something is missing out of the ecosystem, then something else is going to be missing - and where does it end?”
Richard Skevington is a passionate birder and enthusiastic citizen scientist.
Chad Cornish participates in several bird counting events, including the Hawk Migration Association of North America’s Raptor Migration Survey.
This blue jay popped by one of Sharron and Richard Skevington’s six backyard feeders.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
New library roadshow is touring Norfolk
The Norfolk County Public Library’s newest community initiative to promote engagement within its library branches - The Library Roadshow with the CEO – has successfully launched in Port Rowan and Delhi.
Following the Jan. 29 and Feb.18 roadshows, the program’s schedule continues Thursday, March 13 from 5-7 p.m. at the Simcoe Branch; Friday, April 11 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Port Dover Branch; and Thursday, May 29 from 5-7 p.m. at the Waterford Branch.
Inspired by the concept of Antiques Roadshow, the Library Roadshow program offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect directly with Julie Kent, CEO of NCPL, over coffee and conversations.
The plan is to visit each branch twice within the year. At some roadshows, other guests/trustees will join Kent to enrich the discussions, like Kimberly Earls, Chair of the Norfolk County Public Library Board, who will be attending in March and May.
The program was designed for community members to share feedback and ideas about library services… ask questions and explore library initiatives… and collaborate on enhancing the library’s role as a vital community hub.
“Oftentimes, libraries have open houses, and we are one library in the county that has five beating heartsfive branches in those five communities - and each one is unique,” said Kent.
2025 is the second year of a five-year library Strategic Plan. Kent said it’s important to make sure NCPL is responding to the community – they want to make sure the community is aware of the Strategic Plan and how
it is activated in a meaningful way to move not just the mission of the library, but to meet the needs of the community.
Much like uncovering hidden antique treasures, Library Roadshow participants are encouraged to ‘discover the true value of their library.’
“I need to hear from the communities, what their expectations of the library are and to introduce them to the current – and future – library for their communities.”
Since the onset of technologies, libraries are not just ‘repositories for books,’ Kent noted, and have not been for more than 30 years.
“Especially with the (agriculture) business being so technology heavy, we are keeping apace with that to ensure that we have technologies available for both learning, exploring and developing, for all ages,” she said, noting the importance of the expanding MakerSpace Program and computers at libraries.
“We are responding to community needs and changes in how information is accessed, and the format people are becoming more comfortable with... Libraries are ‘change agents’ – we drive change, not react to it. We are in a position to research and understand trends in the community and libraries so that we are responsive. That is where we are moving with long-term plans, and the technology certainly plays a part in that.”
As technology continues to impact libraries, books remain a vital feature.
“They (books) won’t go away,” said Kent. “I don’t think that we will ever be without books, really, at least in my lifetime and maybe my grandchildren’s lifetime. I’m pretty confident. But we do have to have a complement of other ways in which people access their information. For many people, everything is on their phone.”
chris@granthaven.com
Julie Kent, CEO of Norfolk County Public Library.
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Julie Kent, CEO of Norfolk County Public Library, with participants of NCPL’s first Library Roadshow at the Port Rowan branch.
(KAREN HELSDON PHOTO)
Langton Jamboree!
Langton and Area Minor Hockey Association hosted the Langton Jamboree on Saturday for U7 and U8 hockey teams. Shown here are the U8s from Langton (yellow), Tillsonburg (white), Delhi (blue) and Waterford (grey).
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
: Free admission, educational seminars, information snacks and refreshments courtesy of Lifetimes Living Inc. (Tillsonburg ment, Park Place Retirement and Oxford Manor) and Sobeys blood pressure and hearing screening, draw prizes, give -aways active opportunities!
Wednesday, March 5, 9:30 am - 2:30 pm WHERE: Tillsonburg Senior Centre, 45 Hardy Avenue, Tillsonburg
WHO: Open to all seniors and those who want to learn about living Hosted by the Tillsonburg Senior Centre in partnership Older Adult Centres Association of Ontario and d sponsored tario Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility.
WHAT: Free admission, educational seminars, information booths, free healthy snacks and refreshments courtesy of Lifetimes Living Inc. (Tillsonburg Retirement, Park Place Retirement and Oxford Manor) and Sobeys Tillsonburg, free blood pressure and hearing screening, draw prizes, giveaways and unique interactive opportunities!
WHO: Open to all seniors and those who want to learn about healthy, active living
Port Dover Sailors’ Trevor Nunn tracks a Dundas player into the top of Port Dover’s crease.
The eighth-place Port Dover Sailors hosted the first-place Dundas Blues twice on the weekend in Games 2 and 3 of their PJHL South (Bloomfield Division) playoff series. The Blues topped the Sailors both games, taking a 3-0 lead in the series, which continues with Game 4 on Feb. 27 in Dundas. (CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Port Dover Sailors’ Markus Dempewolf clears the zone in the first period Saturday night.
Overnight ice cabins an experience - with fishing benefits
By Jeff Tribe The Lost Tribe
Ask not for whom the bell tolls.
Just get there before the fish is gone.
“Tristan!” I hissed as the pole nearest his bunk jangled connection 30 feet below. “Go!”
Lake Nipissing holds a yearround fishery popular as an ice-fishing destination. Introduced during our son’s five-year educational sojourn in North Bay, we joined those celebrating rather than suffering through extended winter months.
Anglers venture offshore from regions including North and Calendar Bays and along Nipissing’s south shore from January 1st to March 15th. Some hike out pulling sleds with pop-up tents and small heaters, others drive ATVs, snow machines and road-legal vehicles to homemade huts of every description. There’s also a wide selection of day and overnight rental hut or cabin outfitters providing recreational opportunity for locals and visitors alike.
Amy Craft of Craft’s Ice Cabins (249-591-4887, or via their Facebook page) officially joined the latter in January 2024. She, husband Harvey Hughes and Amy’s stepson Jesse Hughes - her ‘main man’ - were involved in the industry years prior to purchasing the
Bear Creek Cottages ice-fishing operation from Terra and Shawn Degagne. The newly-branded Craft’s Ice Cabins continues from the Bear Creek property as a co-operative family enterprise with additional employees. In broad terms, Amy oversees bookings and the business side, Harvey sources lifelong knowledge of the lake in constantly moving cabins to keep clients on fish, and Jesse takes point on day-to-day operations.
A lot of work goes in that people may not see says Amy, whose goal is for clients to be comfortable, on fish and have a great experience. Their customers include families and experienced anglers, but are mostly people seeking a peaceful getaway in a beautiful location.
“And if they catch fish, it’s a bonus.”
Nipissing holds a mixed bag, pickerel topping the list for many, however also featuring pike, muskie, bass, lake herring and growing perch potential. Tactically, Jesse prefers to let live minnows suspended off the bottom do the work.
“I dead-stick (stationary presentation) everything and every once in a while give it a couple jigs."
Freshwater ling or burbot have comparatively recently gained a higher profile in Nipissing. Historically, people considered fish resembling a large - some very large - smooth-bodied mud puppy a ‘trash’ species. That is until anglers noticed one person gathering up discards, and discovered flavour akin to lobster.
Jesse suspends bait six inches above bottom, out of the reach
of mud puppies when targeting the nocturnal feeders, warning of a tendency to spin when hooked, tangling lines around them, and curling up at the hole.
“You don’t know how to get them out because they’re slippery and don’t have scales.”
Smaller burbot fillets are lightly floured, fried with salt and pepper and dipped in butter. Those from fish over five pounds are poached in salt water and then dipped in butter, or alternatively, poached, battered and fried like any other fish.
“It’s turned into a big thing,”
said Jesse.
Our crew was a similarly mixed bag with accomplished angler and nephew Bryan Sweazey, unbridled enthusiasm and hope for ‘at least three fish’ in grandsons Sebastian and Tristan, and someone intrigued by the overnight cabin concept.
The thought of extending Nipissing’s night bite as late as one chose, hitting the morning bite as early as one wished had always been attractive. Doing so within family-friendly heated creature comfort complete with cooking and restroom facilities, without
the hassle of dragging, setting up and breaking down gear a mile or two onto the ice and returning in the coldest of cold, sounded like next-level.
And so it would prove. Howie shuttled us a trio of kilometres or so out onto 24 inches of frozen Nipissing surface inside an enclosed trailer, depositing us at Cabin 12 around 1 p.m. It featured inside fishing holes with covers for when they weren’t in use, six sleeping bunks (Craft’s also has eight-person overnight cabins, slightly roomier and more mod-
Sebastian sets a tip-up rig outside Cabin 12.
Lake Nipissing hosts a wide variety of ice-fishing options, including overnight cabins, which combine creature comfort with a classic winter experience.
Anglers including, from left, Sebastian and Tristan, come to Lake Nipissing in search of pickerel, but may also catch pike, muskie, lake herring and burbot and perch like this one.
Overnight ice cabins an experience - with fishing benefits
ern), a propane stove, battery-powered electric lights, table, chairs and our own ‘ensuite.’ Jesse dropped by, introducing himself, freshening and drilling holes for those who wished to try their luck outside the cabin.
Getting lines in the water we lunched, opened with a jumbo perch and from 3 p.m. onward, enjoyed steady action in gentle waves. Tristan latched onto uncle Bryan’s electronics, the two of them working the cabin’s interior holes while I happily followed Sebastian outside - space to warm up rather than simply thaw out a few steps away. As darkness descended, we joined ranks in the cabin, a pair of tip-ups with warning bells attached to the poles a popular and productive diversion well past a young person’s civilized bedtime.
As the temperature dropped to minus 20, wind howling, Sebastian complained about being too hot in his upper bunk. Mother Nature hadn’t offered up a classic Nipissing sunset, but North Bay’s lights provided a nostalgic tour down memory lane. Wind subsiding, a nearly-full orange moon descending in the
north-west as the eastern horizon crimsoned announced a productive morning bite.
We had come for an experience and got every bit of that. We caught some, missed some, lost some, notably Sebastian the biggest fish of the trip that morning right at the hole. But we smashed through the boys’ pre-trip projection with a feisty pike, double-digits of jumbo perch and over twice that many pickerel. The hit minnows on jigs varied in colour and shape, as well as a plain hook beneath a split shot.
Fully respecting Nipissing’s slot size requirements, we also enjoyed a delicious latenight fish fry, the morning’s planned pancake fest postponed for the simple reason we were too busy fishing to cook.
In the end, Billy or Betty burbot didn’t show up. However, rather than a disappointment, clearly, that represented an undeniable argument to return. Because in closing, the kids had a ton of fun - and Sebastian and Tristan did too.
For a related video, search Lost Tribe Ice Cabin Adventure on YouTube.
Seedy Saturday grows to 50-plus vendors
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
‘Wildly busy’ was a perfect description for the 2nd annual Seedy Saturday in Waterford on Feb. 8.
“I tried very hard to get as many local people as I possibly could,” said co-organizer Jen Thompson, a teacher at Waterford District High School, noting they had just over 50 vendors for the four-hour event, a huge increase from last year’s 10 vendors in the small gymnasium. “And super positive people.
“Go big or go home,” Thompson laughed, estimating about 600 or more people attended. “I am very pleased with how busy it is because when you’re planning something like this, it’s very hard to know how many people are going to come. You think you’ve said something about it (on social media) too many times, but you still get people who haven’t heard about it. So we tried really hard to get it on the radio and in the newspaper…”
“And lots of Facebook, Instagram, social media,” said co-organizer Heidi Mungal from Generations Marketplace.
“It’s creating community,” said Thompson, enjoying the Seedy Saturday atmosphere.
“The networking, the connections, the people…” nodded Mungal, “and just talking around the room.”
Thompson’s connections with Grand Erie District School Board helped them secure space at WDHS, which included four science rooms for a dozen live presentations, and a network of local families.
“And tons of amazing volunteers,” said Mungal.
“People actually travel around for Seedy Saturday events,” Thompson noted. “Having this many vendors is an added bonus. Heidi also incorporated this idea of homesteading, which opened it to weavers, fibre arts guilds, wool products…”
“And lots of presentations,” said Mungal.
“Last year, our main focus was the seed exchange – we had some really generous donations,” said Thompson. “This year, we had a massive seed exchange. When we started, the tables were full!”
“There’s going to be a lot of produce growing in people’s backyards,” Mungal smiled.
“We’re meeting everybody where they need to be, beginner gardeners to advanced, looking to make connections,” said Thompson. “Some of it is very niche, but the people who know, know. Some people are looking for very specific types of seeds, some are just looking to learn a little bit more about cucumbers, tomatoes and stuff.”
WINTER SOWING
Sherry Shrubb was offering native plant seeds at Seedy Saturday for winter sowing projects.
“Everyone chooses a plant that’s best suited for their site,” said Shrubb. “Shady, sandy… you want a plant that’s going to grow, so we choose the seeds together. We take a (plastic) container and fill it
with soil, and make sure it’s nice and wet.
“The bigger the seed, the deeper it goes, and if they’re really tiny, you just sow them on the surface,” said Shrubb, explaining the process to Laurie Daniel from Waterford, who picked up a winter sowing planter with her husband Murray.
Once the seeds are placed in or on the soil, it’s watered and the plastic container is sealed with duct tape, leaving a hole (or holes) at the top for moisture.
“You want to put this outside in the snow in a northeast facing section of your area, protected maybe with some bricks around it so it doesn’t fall over, or in between some shrubs,” said Shrubb. “It has to let in snow and rain. When it gets warmer in the spring… let’s say 10 days or so of warmer weather, you can take the duct tape off and open it up, but… surround it with mesh so it’s protected. Keep it moist so it doesn’t dry out.”
When it gets leaves, it’s scooped out and planted.
“They need to stratify,” said Laurie, who would be winter sowing early everlasting flowers.
“Outside, nature does what nature does,” said Shrubb. “In order for the seed to grow, it has to go through the stratification period – freeze, thaw, freeze, thaw – then it actually grows.”
Impressed with the size and scope of the 2nd Annual Seedy Saturday, Laurie said “I am a gardener, so I am very surprised… I didn’t realize how many different organizations there are. So this is wonderful.”
“We’re local and I didn’t even know a lot of them existed,” nodded Murray Daniel. “It’s amazing.”
You can find Sherry Shrubb on Facebook for more information on winter sowing.
“I have a bunch of things going on, but I’m here today to represent the Pollinator Project,” said Shrubb, noting the project was started by Sarah Judd. “It’s all native plants to provide habitat for bees, butterflies, and pollinators in general. Like the Monarch needs the milkweed, every insect needs a specific plant and they are in decline right now. But if we all choose to plant native plants, or plants like hostas which are not invasive nor native, and provide habitat for bees and butterflies, they will be okay. We will all be okay. We need them, they need us - if we feed them, they’ll feed us.”
WATERFORD BINGO
The next community bingo at Waterford District High School is March 5. Doors open at 5 p.m., games start at 6 p.m. in the large gymnasium. Community members are welcome! Must be 18-plus to play. All funds raised support student extracurricular activities at WDHS, 227 Main Street South, Waterford.
Bingo game booklets are $10 for 10. 50-50 tickets are also available. Shaw’s Ice Cream and popcorn will be available on site.
The final Waterford bingo for the 202425 season is May 28 – mark your calendars.
Chris@granthaven.com
From left, Amy Craft and her ‘main man’ Jesse Hughes of Craft’s Ice Cabins.
Bryan Sweazey checks his electronics while jigging from the comfort of his bunk.
Insects work hard to get their liquid-only meals
LISA TIMPF
Advocate Contributor
With snow and ice piling up, many Norfolk residents are looking forward to springtime.
Attendees at the Norfolk Field Naturalists’ February 11 speaker event had a chance to dream about warmer days as Dr. Brent Sinclair spoke about insects that are much more likely to appear once the snow has vanished.
Sinclair, a Professor in Cornell University’s Department of Entomology, discussed the challenges posed for insects who live on a liquid diet. He also explained some of the ways they overcome those difficulties.
Some insects that rely on liquid diets are ones we admire. Butterflies, for example, are visually appealing and also play a role in pollination. Aphids, leafhoppers, and mosquitos, on the other hand, are less well-liked. Whether seen as friend or foe, as Sinclair’s talk pointed out, insects whose diet is liquid-only can do some remarkable things.
These insects need to take in a lot of liquid to get the nutrients they need. Some must consume many times their body weight. Aphids, for example, drink eight to 32 times their own body weight per day.
This means liquid-diet-reliant insects must be good at separating out water from the nutrients they want to keep. Many insects have a complex arrangement of Malpighian tubules to process liquids.
Obtaining the liquids in the first place isn’t always easy. Butterflies use a straw-like device called a proboscis to drink nectar from flowers. Aphids, which dine on phloem sap, bite the plant, then drink the sap as it is pushed out. Insects that live on sap from the plant’s xylem have developed other methods to extract the fluid they need.
Among the insects drinking from the plant’s xylem are leafhoppers, froghoppers, and spittlebugs. Phloem sap, the aphids’ food source of choice, is under positive pressure, which means aphids merely have to bite into the plant at the right place and sap will flow. Xylem sap, on the other hand, is under negative pressure, which creates challenges.
Froghoppers have overcome this issue by developing a specialized muscular structure known as a cibarial pump, which allows them to create the equivalent of over 100 vacuum cleaners’ worth of suction.
When mosquitos drink our blood, they run across a different problem. Mosquitos are cold-blooded, which means they rely on outside temperatures to control their body temperature. Human blood is at around 37 degrees Celsius. Drinking blood could potentially heat the mosquito up so much that it causes biochemical damage. To counter this, mosquitos have developed “heat shock” proteins to minimize the impact.
Sinclair showed a video that demonstrates another remarkable feature about mosquitos. It may appear, watching one in action, that mosquitos just jab you and start drinking. But in the video, which showed the mosquito’s mouthparts under a microscope, observers could see the insect moving its stylus through body tissues with incredible precision to get to a capillary carrying blood. Only then did it start to enjoy its meal.
Sinclair’s talk provided a new appreciation for how hard insects that live on liquid diets have to work to get their meals. Even if it doesn’t make us feel more charitable towards aphids, leafhoppers and mosquitos, at least we can look at the insects that share our yards with a new appreciation for their marvelous complexity.
The tiger swallowtail butterfly uses a straw-like drinking tube known as a proboscis to sip nectar. (GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO )
Insects like this monarch butterfly use a straw-like drinking tube known as a proboscis to sip nectar. Some other liquid-diet-reliant insects have to work harder for their meals.
(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO )
Old Town Hall is a thriving arts, entertainment centre
hub for all the community to enjoy.
In 1902 the Waterford and Townsend Township Town Hall was built and it has been a cornerstone of our community ever since.
It served as a hub for community life for over a century. It originally served as the administrative centre for the Township of Townsend and it soon became the heart of many local gatherings, concerts and community events.
As happens in many towns and communities, government restructuring in the late 20th century left the future of the building up in the air and undecided. The historic gathering and meeting place needed a lot of restoration work and local government officials made the decision to put the hall up for sale. What would become of the building that served the Waterford and area community for decades?
A group of local residents saw the historic value in keeping the building alive and flourishing, so in 1999, the Waterford Organization for the Restration of the Town Hall was formed. In 2000 they purchased the property for $2. The group later became known as the Old Town Hall Association (OTHA). Their mission was to save the historic building and enhance the community and cultural lives by providing a diverse range of activities and a venue for community events in the restored building. After about five years of hard work and dedicated restoration they were able to open the Waterford Old Town Hall doors to the public as a vibrant cultural
In 2000 the building was designated ‘a property of architectural and/or historic value’ under the Ontario Heritage Act. Fundraising and grant writing were undertaken and the renovations needed were started. Renovation costs were $333,000. A vast number of volunteer hours helped to alleviate some of the costs incurred to bring the building up to the standards of the Ontario Heritage Act.
Thanks to the many volunteers involved it has become a thriving arts and entertainment centre. When you step into the hall you will feel like you have stepped back in time to the early 1900s with much of the original hall lovingly restored whenever possible. The official opening of the renovated hall took place in November 2005 with over 300 people in attendance. In 2008 an elevator was installed to make all levels of the town hall accessible to everyone.
From 2009 until the present, several large building maintenance projects have been completed including replacement of roof tiles, reconstruction of one chimney, replacement of one of the three heating units, a concrete porch floor replacement, some window replacements and masonry repairs. Local artists are able to feature their work in the gallery and you can browse at your leisure. If you see a piece or picture that catches your eye and would like to purchase it, you will find that most, if not all, are for sale. The staff would be happy to help you out with that.
The upper hall, or auditorium, can seat 180 people and has a fully functional stage.
It can be used for theatrical productions, concerts, community events… any number of things. It is available, as well, for rentals and offers a very unique and historic space for private events, meetings… any kind of celebration.
The hall is also known for its weekly events, from Seniors cards each Wednesday afternoon to dance classes, yoga, artist workshops and Town Hall Kids. Are you looking for a good book to read? It just so happens that Old Town Hall also houses a Book Store with a huge selection of gently used books for sale. Monies raised help with the cost of upkeep of the hall. The book store is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2
the selection is huge.
The OTH Gallery is open Tuesday to Friday from 12-4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The volunteer on staff will be more than happy to help you. You can also check them out on Facebook at Old Town Hall (Waterford, Ontario, Canada), on their website at www.oldtownhall.org or email at otha@oldtownhall.org or you can follow them on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. It is always satisfying when we can repair and preserve an important part of local history and Old Town Hall is standing proof of that! It shows us just what we can accomplish when we come together for a like cause. Stop by for a visit!
The Old Town Hall in Waterford.
(BRENDA MOSER PHOTO)
Absolute Respiratory launches Absolute Homecare
Editor
Absolute Respiratory, a leader in home respiratory care in Norfolk and Oxford Counties, is growing with the recent launch of Absolute Homecare in Simcoe.
"Working with home respiratory clients over the last 15 years, it is clear that there are some gaps in our health care system, and that there is a need for comprehensive in-home care," said Lyndsey Ross, founder of Absolute Homecare, in a media release.
"Canadians are living longer, and want to live at home as long as possible. By providing in-home care, we are able to provide our clients with independence, and in-home care eases the burden on Ontario’s LTC system."
Absolute Homecare, which launched in January, provides a variety of homecare services, including PSW Care, Foot Care
Nursing, Respite Care, Exercise Therapy, Wound and Nursing Care, Respite Care, and 24/7 Care.
"Home is home, and we want our clients to live life on their terms,” said Ross. “We provide the care they need with the respect they deserve."
Every treatment plan is personal and confidential, she noted, and Absolute Homecare even handles the billing.
While the homecare services are primarily offered ‘in-home’, respiratory services are a mix of ‘in-home’ and at the office. Absolute Homecare services all of Norfolk County, and they have long-term plans to eventually expand into Haldimand and Oxford.
“It’s needed everywhere, not just here (Norfolk County),” said Ross. “What is funded through OHIP is not enough. There is a need for foot care, there is a need for personal support, for nursing care - your loved one can’t be alone at night,
they want to stay in their home, they don’t want to go to a long term care home, so there is a need for all avenues and areas of health care and in particular, homecare.
Jessica Sibb is the Clinical Nursing Leader and manages daily operations at Absolute Homecare. Sibb has an extensive background in homecare and is excited to lead the team at Absolute Homecare.
"There is such a great need for homecare in our area," said Sibb, "and the line from The Wizard of Oz is right, ‘There IS no place like home,’ and we are here to provide the help you need, at home."
Response from the community has been positive, said Ross.
“Lots of positivity. We provide a high level of care, we have educated, registered, regulated health care professionals. Our (respiratory) patients have come to know us for our high level of care and compassion, so expanding that into our homecare division is a big factor for us.”
It means making sure their nurses are all registered with their colleges. It means their PSWs are only employed after finishing/graduating from an accredited course, and need to belong to the Ontario Personal Support Workers Association.
“We are very particular about who we hire,” said Ross, with the training, culture, personality and environment transmitting to the homecare side.
***
You can learn more about Absolute Homecare (92 Norfolk Street South, Unit C, Simcoe) by visiting their booth at the Norfolk Home and Lifestyle Show at The Aud in Simcoe, Feb. 28 - March 2. You can also email Lyndsey Ross or Jessi Sibb at info@absolute-homecare.com or call them at 519-426-0413.
Absolute Respiratory first opened in Simcoe 15 years ago, and they expanded into Tillsonburg 11 years ago.
Norfolk Community Health and Wellness Fair welcomes all Spring is just around the corner
tients within their homes from nurses and therapists.
affecting your cardiovascular health system.”
Absolute Respiratory and its division branch Absolute Homecare will be hosting a community health and wellness fair on April 5 at the Port Dover Community Centre.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature a variety of different vendors such as Port Dover Senior Centre, Norfolk Hearing Clinic, Norfolk County Fire, Norfolk Family Health Team, and other community participants.
“A five-hour event targeting health and wellness is an amazing thing because everybody who’s coming in wants to be there,” said Lyndsey Ross, owner of Absolute Respiratory and Absolute Homecare.
“Four weeks ago, I knew I was going to do this. I started making a list of the different venues to use and finally settled on the Port Dover Community Centre due to its great location. It is very accessible and it’s the perfect size. Anything that we profit from will be donated to the Student Nutrition program at West Lynn Public School.”
Ross said that the Norfolk Community Health and Wellness Fair will be a free admission event featuring prizes, children’s activities, and immersive hands-on vendor to guest experience. Vendor participants will include chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists and healthcare practitioners.
Absolute Respiratory, which opened in Spring 2011, specializes in providing home oxygen equipment and care for patients who are living with respiratory conditions, such as obstructive sleep apnea. Oxygen and CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is provided for pa-
Ross said that a person diagnosed with a sleep disorder is four times more likely to have a stroke.
“A lot of times when someone is diagnosed with something like high blood pressure, diabetes, and different heart conditions, then the following protocol is to get screened for sleep apnea, because of the correlation when you stop breathing and not getting into deep sleep then it's
Ross is happy when she hears from their patients that they made their lives better and sometimes the end of someone’s life better, as well as establishing connections with people of the community.
Vendors interested in participating in the Community Health and Wellness Fair can contact Absolute Respiratory at 519-426-1113 or email simcoe@absolute-respiratory.com .
We recently introduced you to an amazing, hard working mother and son team – Brandilyn Bassett and Jackson Austin.
This amazing pair have put countless hours of planning, researching and love into raising funds for various causes and/or charities and they are busy preparing for the 2025 season of Oakland Giving Garden. Last season they not only supported several local charities, but Brandilyn and her friend Kristina made the long drive to Boone, NC to deliver hats, coats, gloves, emergency supplies, etc. to victims of Hurricane Helene. They also volunteered to aid in disaster relief clean up while there.
Jackson and his mom have narrowed this year’s list down to six organizations and they are asking for your feedback… they can only help two. The list includes: Pilots4Paws; Hearts to Homes Feline Rescue & Sanctuary; Sato Saved End of the Line Dog Rescue and Rehabilitation; BCC on the Streets – outreach ministry; and Ronald McDonald House Charities South Central Ontario and Home & Heart Community. To make your choices and cast your vote you can go to their Facebook page under The Oakland Giving Garden.
This mother and son duo are an awesome pair and very passionate about helping others. Kudos to Jackson for coming up with the idea for Oakland Giving Garden. Thanks, as well, to Brandilyn for all of her help and support. They will keep you updated on their 2025 plant sale donations. “We appreciate your purchases, comments, donations, follows, likes, shares and prayers… every single one,” said Brandilyn.
Be sure to follow them on Facebook for updates on their 2025 plant sale. Keep up the good work Jackson and Brandilynn!
CHRIS ABBOTT
ALEX HUNT Advocate Correspondent
BRENDA MOSER Advocate Correspondent
Lyndsey Ross, owner of Absolute Respiratory and Absolute Homecare, is dedicated to bringing health and wellness education through community engagement. Absolute will be hosting its first ever Community Health and Wellness Fair at the Port Dover Community Centre on April 5.
Riddles
What can you see in the middle of March and April that you can never see in any other month?
Answer: The letter R
Which crime fighter likes March the most?
Answer: Robin
What falls during March but never gets hurt?
Answer: The Rain
What do trumpet players in a spring parade do?
Answer: March
Why was the sports fan acting so crazy?
Answer: He had March madness!
What month of the year has 28 days?
Answer: All of them!
What month is the best for coffee?
Answer: Feb-BREW-ary
Which type of bow can’t be tied in March?
Answer: A rainbow
Sudoku
PET OF THE WEEK
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Meet our Pet of the Week:
AKA Winnie the Pooh. She is a sweet, 4-year-old Australian Labradoodle. She has never met a treat she didn't like (except for celery). She is the best cuddle buddy and is a firm believer that you must share your pillow and blanket, but she doesn't have to share hers.
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MARCH
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
THURSDAY, FEBURARY 27
Weekly Coffee Break
9:30 a.m
Donations towards our church Wheelchair Accessibility Fundraising.
Everyone welcome!
St. John's Anglican Church Woodhouse, Hwy 24 S. and St.John's Rd, Simcoe
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
AGM - The Norfolk Woodlot Owners Association (NWOA)
6 p.m - 9 p.m
Doors open at 6pm to view displays and visit with 20 woodlot-related organizations and vendors. Meeting is 7 to 9. Special Guest speaker Lesley Sampson, Coyote Watch Canada. Delhi German Home
THURSDAY, MARCH 6
Weekly Coffee Break
9:30 a.m
Donations towards our church Wheelchair Accessibility Fundraising.
Everyone welcome!
St. John's Anglican Church Woodhouse, Hwy 24 S. and St.John's Rd, Simcoe
SATURDAY, MARCH 8
Rock Painting for Grown-Ups
11: a.m - 1 p.m
Unleash your creativity at the Library! Rock painting is a fun and imaginative way to add a personal touch to your garden or surprise someone with a hidden gem along a trail.
Norfolk County Public Library Port Rowan Branch - 1034 Bay Street Port Rowan
MONDAY, MARCH 10SATURDAY, MARCH 15
The Library Super Six: March Break Edition!
Play, create and connect more! See ncp.ca for details.
Norfolk County Public Library
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12
Teen Art Club
4:30 p.m - 5:30 p.m Grow your portfolio, expand your skills, and connect with other teen artists!
Norfolk County Public Library Delhi Branch - 192 Main Street of Delhi
The Simcoe and District March meeting 7:30 p.m
Paul Oliver presentation; “Urban Nature Store”. Admission is free. There will be a light lunch, refreshments and door prizes. More info contact Helen at 226 440 2699 or helenuren@live.ca.
Junior Farmers building
THURSDAY, MARCH 13
Weekly Coffee Break
9:30 a.m
Donations towards our church Wheelchair Accessibility Fundraising. Everyone welcome!
St. John's Anglican Church Woodhouse, Hwy 24 S. and St.John's Rd, Simcoe
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
Celebrate Pi Day (3.14)
6:30 p.m
The Shrubberies will be playing the Riversyde 83 Cafe stage.
An assortment of delicious fruit and cream pies will be available alongside our amazing cafe fare.
83 Sydenham St. Simcoe
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
Science Saturday
1 p.m - 1:30 p.m
Each week, we'll explore cool science topics like physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, astronomy, and more.
Norfolk County Public Library
Simcoe Branch - 46 Colborne Street South Simcoe and Delhi Branch - 192 Main Street of Delhi
MONDAY, MARCH 17
Shine Bright: Diamond Art Workshop for Teens
4 p.m - 5 p.m
Discover the joy of Diamond Art, a relaxing and creative hobby where you craft stunning artwork by placing colourful resin rhinestones on a sticky canvas.
Norfolk County Public Library Simcoe Branch46 Colborne Street South Simcoe
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
Teen Social Night
4 p.m - 5 p.m
Looking for a fun way to hang out, get creative, and game with friends? Whats in store? - Squad up in Minecraft, Roblox, and Dungeons & Dragons - Dive into epic tabletop games & creative challenges - Chat about your favourite books & anime - Meet new people, have a blast, and pick next months theme!
Norfolk County Public Library Port Dover Branch - 713 St. George Street Port Dover
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26
Kanopy After Dark: A Cinematic Escape for Grown-Ups! - ages 18+
7 p.m - 9 p.m
Join fellow film enthusiasts in a welcoming, communal setting for a night of cinematic discovery.
Norfolk County Public Library Simcoe Branch46 Colborne Street South Simcoe
Provide feedback on the Draft Master Recreation Plan
Norfolk County is inviting residents to share their feedback on the Draft Master Recreation Plan, which will be presented to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 4 p.m. in Council Chambers, Simcoe.
The meeting is open to the public and will follow a public hearing format, allowing each speaker up to five minutes to provide their input. Names of speakers will be recorded for the public record.
Following this meeting, the Draft Master Recreation Plan is expected to be presented at the Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, March 11, for further consideration. This meeting provides another opportunity for residents to review the plan, submit comments, and participate through deputations.
For those who are unable to attend the meeting, comments can be provided through the County’s online engagement tool, EngageNorfolk until Sunday, March 9.
With a theme of “Recreation Without Borders,” the Draft Master Recreation Plan aims to shape the future of recreation in Norfolk County by fostering opportunities for leisure, growth, inclusivity, and connection. The plan outlines strategic recommendations for programs, facilities, staffing, and quality-of-life enhancements and will provide a vision and path for the future as the community grows and changes.
Residents are encouraged to review the Draft Master Recreation Plan, which is available at engagenorfolk.ca/recreation-without-borders.
SUDOKU ANSWERS
WE ARE HIRING HIRING
Are you a motivated self-starter with a passion for sales and marketing? Do you thrive in a flexible work environment where you can set your own schedule? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!
Location: Work from Anywhere!
Type: Commission
Schedule: Your Own Schedule
Worship With Us
John’s Anglican Church (Woodhouse) 883 Norfolk St. S, Simcoe Rev Leah Arvidsson www.parishoflongpointbay.com 519-426-4766 Join us for Sunday Worship at 11 am Community Coffee Break Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 am
PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS WITH US! HERE’S HOW:
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Ca ery Hardware & Electric Limited
• Canadian Tire Circle K
• Crompton Home Building Centre
• Dave’s Variety
• Delhi Community Arena Roulston’s Pharmacy
• Tim Hortons Wilkinson’s YIG
COURTLAND_______
• Courtland Bakery Ltd.
• The Simcoe Advocate Community Calendar allows non-profit organizations to promote their free admission community events at no charge. Event listings can include the event name, date, time and location as well as contact information (ie phone number, email address or website).
• If your event is not free admission or you would like to include more details than stated above, the Simcoe Advocate offers the following options for promoting your community events:
◦ Coming Events Word Ad in Classified section (50 word max.) - $10 + hst
◦ Coming Events Boxed Word Ad in Classified section (50 word max.) - $15 + hst
◦ Display Ad - Sizes begin at a Small Classified Display ad (3.3" x 2.5") - $35 + hst Deadline: Monday prior at 3 p.m. Contact: info@simcoeadvocate.com
• Courtland Variety &
Paczki season continues at Courtland Bakery until March 4
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
First introduced in Courtland as a way to boost sales during two of the slowest – and coldest – months of the year, the paczki season continues this year at Courtland Bakery until March 4.
The annual tradition starts at the bakery in January and ends the day before Ash Wednesday, the first day of the 40day Lenten season leading up to Easter. This year Shrove Tuesday - also known as Pancake Tuesday, Fat Tuesday, or Paczki Day - is the fast-approaching March 4.
Emigrants from Poland pronounce the large, pie-filling donuts ‘poonch-key’ or ‘pooch-key’, which they use at Courtland Bakery.
“We’ve been doing this since 2000,” said Courtland Bakery co-owner John Peazel, noting their first paczki season was celebrated along with twin grandsons, who just had their 26th birthdays on Feb. 16.
The bakery itself celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2014 with Mary and John Peazel owning it 37 of those 75 years. The original owners had it 27 years, and there were six other owners in between, all at the same Courtland location, which has been rebuilt and greatly expanded over the years. With an eye on eventually retiring, the bakery has
been listed for sale more than 10 years – at a fair price. Its name is known up and down Highway 3 from Windsor to Fort Erie.
“Highway 3, this is a very good location,” said John. “When we first bought the bakery, the highway count was about 23,000 cars a day. It’s probably 30,000 cars now. That’s why we invested money in that big LED sign outside. I read an article saying that sign should help you increase sales by 10-45% and it does help us.”
People will drive up to several hours to get their paczkis, baked fresh Tuesday-Saturday during the 6-8 week season. You can call the day before your visit to get the ones you like (519-688-2023).
“I’ve talked to so many bakers, January and February is a very slow time and if you need something to bring people in, you need to put up something special. Do this! Last year, I think we sold 28,000 paczkis… which is a lot of paczkis,” John added with a laugh. “It gives your sales at that particular time such a boost.
“I have seen it where we make 200 dozen paczki in a night – that’s a lot of paczkis.”
John said most paczkis sold at grocery stores use ‘donut filling’, which is water, flavour, sugar, and colour.
At Courtland Bakery, they use good quality pie filling.
“We buy the very best pie filling,” he said, “and we make
sure there is a lot of pie filling in there. I want to see a dozen paczki weigh at least five (pounds), but I don’t want to see them weigh seven.
“So we want to put lots of filling in them, and we have about 12 different kinds.”
This year they are actually offering 13 fillings - apple, apricot, banana, blueberry, cherry, chocolate, Holstein, lemon, Nutella, plum, raspberry, strawberry, Venetian –with four different toppings, plain, glazed, sugar and powdered sugar.
Baking is a science, said John, and making the paczki is no different. Machines are used to form the dough, ensuring consistency. The rest is ‘let it rise, fry it, and then fill it.’ It keeps the staff of 29 (six in production), including full and part-time, busy.
Over the years, customers have asked for recipes, and Peazel is happy to oblige… with a condition.
“I say, ‘I sure will!’ We give away all of our recipes, whether you are a customer or another baker. But I’m kind of a funny guy. If someone asks for the cream cheese recipe for cheese crowns, I give them my recipe. It starts off with a 44-pound block of cream cheese. You want to know how to make croissants? The recipe starts with 200 pounds of… I don’t break it down,” he smiled.
chris@granthaven.com
Staff at Courtland Bakery includes from left Kennedy Neville, Rayne Sales, Sherri Rowland, Rachel Robinson, and Madison Altwassen. (CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)