Farmworkers BBQ supports hundreds every week
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
This year’s weekly Farmworkers BBQ in Simcoe, which kicked off in May, has expanded.
Held Thursdays and Fridays in the Trinity Anglican Church hall, hundreds of farmworkers enjoy a free burger meal, socialize, and have access to clothing, gift cards, local services.
“We try to bring in everyone, the migrant workers, who wants to participate. Mainly it’s organized by The Huron Farmworkers Ministry and TNO (The Neighbourhood Organization, but this year, also mental health and other groups want to join in with that adventure,” said Father Enrique Martinez.
“Usually in a week we have Thursday 300 and Friday 300.”
On May 8, the second Friday BBQ, the numbers were increasing, but not yet at peak level.
“This is also kind of a seasonal event,” said Jennifer Rajasekar, The Neighbourhood Organization, which is located in the mall near Giant Tiger. “We are welcoming them, reassure them, show them the resources are here… just a gentle reminder that if you need any support while you are here, don’t forget that we (TNO) are also here.
“It’s a warm welcome in a time, away from their family, when they are going to feel the stress more. This breaks the ice, and supports them in that sense also. This is a second home for them when they are here for the next eight months, six months, whatever the time is. So it gives them that comfort, people they
DCHC says ‘thank you’ to the community
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Delhi Community Health Centre
said thank you to the community Saturday afternoon at its first Community Appreciation BBQ.
“A big thank you!” said Lori Yeo,
Building Administrator, Delhi Community Health Centre.
“It’s community appreciation, because we’re in our 22nd year servicing the community and we just want to give back,” said John Bamford, Board Chair, Delhi Community Health Centre. “Lori had this great
idea of this event and we plan on holding it annually if we can.”
“The plan for today was to just give back to the community that continues to support us,” said Yeo. “It’s about awareness, ‘Hey, we’re still here.’
Norfolk County Ward 3 Councillor
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
From left, Snow Smith, Astrid Smith, Emily Galvao and Moose enjoyed the BBQ lunch Saturday at Delhi Community Health Centre’s free Community Appreciation BBQ. Galvao won the 50-50 draw prize of $425.
Weekly BBQ supports hundreds every week
know, knowing they can trust and come in and talk to them about whatever challenges they might be facing.” The first two weeks are always the most challenging, said Rajasekar.
At the end of the season, there will an appreciation BBQ - appreciation for all of their hard work, late in November.
“The thing we are doing now is trying to make a relation with the workers AND the farmers,” said Martinez. “And through that relation, farmers and workers contact us, not only when they have problems, but for events. That’s what we do. “Also now, we go to the farmers. Last week we went to a farm (Sandy Shores) to see the workers, so
they don’t always have to come here. We have already had a couple more farmers who want us go to their farms.”
At that first visit, they met farmworkers just off the plane. Hungry, in some cases, and sometimes lacking warmer clothes.
“It’s summer in Mexico, but it was 5 degrees here. They don’t realize that. And that’s what we do. We try to make their life a little bit easier.”
“We give them a welcome bag – it has towel, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrush, a pair socks, working gloves, safety glasses…” said Rajasekar. “We talk about their rights and responsibilities while they are here, and how to keep themselves safe.
“Some come with one suitcase for eight months, so how much can they bring?”
Blake Kimarley, from Jamaica, lined up for his free Farmworker BBQ burger meal on May 8 at the Trinity Anglican Church hall in Simcoe. The barbecues, which serve up to 300 people on Thursdays and Fridays, will continue through the summer and fall.
Co-organizers of the weekly Farmworkers BBQ in Simcoe, from The Huron Farmworkers Ministry and The Neighbourhood Organization, are from left Jennifer Rajasekar (TNO), Nalini Pandalangat (TNO), Father Enrique Martinez (Huron Migrant Workers Ministry) and Ricardo Celis (HMWM).
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
DCHC gives back with community appreciation BBQ
Mike Columbus toured the BBQ with his granddaughter, and MPP Bobbi Ann Brady planned to come later in the afternoon, enjoying the free event with hundreds of people.
“This is the first one and everybody working here is a volunteer,” said Yeo. Bamford admitted they weren’t sure in advance how many would come... It turned out to be ‘a lot’ and the Board of Directors were quite happy about that. Wilkinson’s Your Independent Grocer donated all of the food, and volunteers from Norfolk County Fire Department, Station 5 (Delhi) grilled the free hot dogs. Staff from the Delhi Community Health Centre Walk-In Clinic did ‘teddy bear checkups’ for the children.
“The kids love that,” said Bamford and Yeo.
A volunteer from the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 125 in Delhi, did face painting.
There were balloons for the children, bubbles and chalk – a LOT of chalk - for drawing art in the parking lot, and the
firefighters brought one of their trucks for kids to check out.
“We have games, different prizes, a 50-50 draw, silent auction,” said Bamford.
“All of the art was donated for the silent auction,” Yeo noted. “That starts today and is going to finish at our Gala (Sept. 19).”
NHNH Yard Sale to offer great deals, supports residents
From household goods to décor, toys, and hidden treasures, the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (NHNH) Yard Sale on Saturday, June 13, will offer shoppers great deals while helping support the residents who call NHNH home. Whether you enjoy bargain hunting, decorating your home, or searching for unique finds, there will be something for everyone.
The community event will feature a wide selection of gently used items, including kitchenware, games, seasonal decorations, small household items, toys, and more. Funds raised through the yard sale will help support programs, activities, and initiatives that enhance the lives of residents living at NHNH.
NHNH encourages shoppers to arrive early for the best selection, as volunteers continue preparing and organizing donations from across the community.
Community members are also invited to donate gently used items to help support the sale. Donations of household goods, décor, toys, games, kitchen items, and small furniture are welcome.
“The support we receive from the community means so much to our residents, families, staff, and volunteers,” said Linda Schaeffer, Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator. “Events like this help create opportunities for connection, comfort, and meaningful experiences for the people who live here.” The NHNH Yard Sale will take place on Saturday, June 13, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home (at the corner of Elgin Avenue and Robinson Street, Simcoe).
For more information or to arrange a donation drop off, please contact Linda Schaeffer, Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator, at 519-426-0750 ext. 1455.
The Delhi Community Health Centre Board of Directors were all smiles Saturday at their Community Appreciation BBQ. From left are Matt Wilkinson, Dave Carpani, John Bamford, Barb Murphy, Pat Loncke and DCHC Building Administrator Lori Yeo.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Firefighter Shawn Weiler from Norfolk County Fire Department, Station 5 (Delhi), barbecues hot dogs for the DCHC’s Community Appreciation BBQ on Saturday.
Norfolk Councillor Mike Columbus with his granddaughter Marissa Fernandes at the DCHC Community Appreciation BBQ.
EDITORIAL
You deserve policy that delivers more than optics
Haldimand-Norfolk MPP
Bobbi Ann Brady
“In matters of conscience, the law of the majority has no place.” - Mahatma Gandhi.
Public office often comes with pressure to fall in line, to support legislation because it is politically convenient or broadly supported. But when the vote on Bill 9, the Municipal Accountability Act, came up this week, I knew it demanded something different, which was honesty.
Bill 9’s goal was to deal with misbehaving councillors. After scrutinizing the legislation, I concluded if the goals were accountability, transparency, and restoring public confidence, then we as legislators were not being honest about whether it achieved that. It opens the door to council members potentially voting out a fellow elected colleague. That’s not how democracy works. Democracy means at election time the taxpayer decides whether or not to remove politicians.
Those opposed to the bill felt they had won the day when an unanimity vote barrier was included in the legislation. Meaning, for a councillor to be removed, the entire council must be in favour. As many agree, that is difficult, so I question if the process becomes so restrictive that mean-
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ingful action is nearly impossible, are we strengthening accountability and will that misbehaving councillor really be dealt with? The answer is no.
Although I was the lone dissenting vote, I am not alone in my assessment of this legislation. Ontario’s top municipal lawyer calls the bill “fatally flawed.” Some colleagues, who voted in favour, were in the media listing the bill’s shortcomings. I also received plenty of correspondence from elected officials around the province - many females - who agreed with my vote. Those sentiments are on my social media.
A professor wrote to me that my dissenting vote took courage.
“Compliments and thanks! Time will tell that you voted correctly on this issue.”
It’s important to consider how we got here, because chaos in Ontario council chambers is not uncommon. Headlines detail dysfunction, infighting, procedural battles, and escalating complaints between elected officials.
Increased council dysfunction coincides with the province’s 2019 decision to mandate integrity commissioners in every municipality. The road to hell is paved with good intentions. The system often incentivizes councillors to weaponize the process against dissenting colleagues, and sometimes they get help from allies in the community. This monopolizes resources, costs the taxpayer hefty lawyer fees, and accomplishes nothing. Bill 9 doesn’t change that, and in fact might exacerbate the issues.
If I saw these issues, why couldn’t others? I believe they could, but the debate morphed into something different. Bill 9 was introduced to protect all municipal officials, not just women. However, efforts to pass this legislation were led largely by a group dubbed, “Women of Ontario Say No.” The group’s name and implication bring the difficult optics of voting against a bill framed in those terms.
Abuse, violence, and sexual harassment are serious matters and deserve profound consequences, which are issues best dealt with by law enforcement, not left to an integrity commissioner process.
I respectfully ask the handful calling my vote “a sad day for women” to read the bill and examine what it does and equally important, what it doesn’t do.
If this discussion is about protecting women and accountability, did they pay equal attention to the outcome of the vote on Lydia’s Law?
Voting against Bill 9 was not a vote against women. My decision was based on the legislation, not the politics or optics surrounding it. Women deserve meaningful protections, serious responses to abuse and harassment, and effective legislation, not a politically charged bill.
My heart raced realizing I would be the lone dissenting voice, but you elected me to exercise independent judgment and to stand firm when principle demands it. I will not disclose private conversations, but Premier Ford complimented me for standing by my convictions.
I thank the army of constituents who supported me on social media - that makes standing by my convictions easier.
Every Ontarian deserves policy delivering more than optics - Bill 9 fails to deliver and time will prove it.
ONTARIO’S AUDITOR GENERAL HITS THE BOOKS
In a column from earlier this year, I echoed words I’ve been saying since my first election in 2022 “…barriers within our schools are growing faster than our solutions.” And overstretched and underfunded special education sup-
port systems were part of my gripe.
I have been joined in that sentiment by a chorus of people including parents, students, teachers, the Elementary Teacher’s Federation of Ontario (ETFO), and various education stakeholders from across the province. Joining the choir is the Auditor General of Ontario with her recently released Special Report 2026 - Special Education Needs.
The Auditor General, Shelly Spence, confirms what many of us have known for years, Ontario’s classrooms are in trouble.
Spence’s report assessed whether the Ministry of Education and school boards have the tools, procedures, and funding to provide special education programs and services that comply with parameters and meet students’ needs. Unfortunately, her audit saw many students waiting months for specialist assessments, and about a third waiting over a year.
The report also uncovered a lack of standard criteria and guidelines for identifying and supporting students. Sixty per cent of teachers reported they received minimal or no training in the development and implementation of Individual Education Plans. Between 49 and 72 per cent of the time, staff absences and vacancies remained unfilled by qualified individuals. I found it shocking where the report uncovered that students with specials needs were sometimes sent home, or asked to stay home, without schools formally tracking reasons why, how many times it happened, or providing any documentation.
Other points the ETFO drew from the report was 46 of the 72 Ontario school boards together spent nearly $400 million more than their special education funding allocation in 2023-24. And they noted this report is reminiscent of the ETFO’s own 2025 report, Promises Unfulfilled: Addressing the Special Education Crisis in Ontario. That report flagged the “severe and growing gaps in special education funding, staffing, and service delivery.” The ETFO made multiple recommendations to mitigate the problems such as hiring specialized staff, reducing wait times, class size caps, increasing funding to ensure children with special needs are able to access a comprehensive range of special education placements.
This speaks to a point I’ve made multiple times that classroom complexity has far outpaced our support systems. We possess a varied array of learning requirements; however, the number of educational assistants, special education teachers, and therapists has not increased accordingly. A significant number of these well-trained professionals are exiting the field entirely due to exhaustion, leaving those who remain under immense pressure.
This situation impacts every child, not solely those with special needs. The challenges include: educators being compelled to shift from teaching to managing crises, which diminishes instructional time; students who do not have recognized needs experiencing limited academic and social development due to frequent interruptions that hinder their progress; and rising violence in conventional classrooms is fostering an atmosphere that is neither peaceful nor supportive of learning.
If my paragraphs sound familiar, they should. I’m frustrated I’m still saying the same thing since my first election in 2022 that we must re-imagine some of our critical systems. And education professionals and parents and students have been saying it to this government since 2018. Seemingly to no avail. But I’ll keep on top of this issue, and I know I’ll be backed up by a legion of folks who want the best education system we can get. Students deserve nothing less.
Waterford apartment decision shelved until July
A revised development proposal for Leamon Street in Waterford wasn’t revised quite enough for councillors to give it the green light. However, they also didn’t deny the application for a four-storey mixeduse build on the property. Instead, they’ll give the public another chance to offer their input on the updated plan. The decision made at the May 26 Norfolk council meeting does come with some risk in that missed deadlines to make a decision could allow the proponents to appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal and take control out of local hands.
“I would like the community I represent to have a little more opportunity to have some input,” said Coun. Kim Huffman When the application was initially presented in February, it was met with some concern from both councillors and members of the public. At the time, the plan was for a five-storey building that had 44 units, including five affordable housing units, and some ground floor commercial space.
Councillors and residents alike questioned the size of the building, and expressed concerns over traffic, parking, and privacy. In an attempt to alleviate those concerns, the proponents reduced the building to four storeys, which cut the unit count to 39, including four affordable housing
Delhi development spurs school capacity questions
need for new schools in Delhi, Waterford and Simcoe. However, simply being over capacity isn’t enough.
units. This greatly reduced any concerns over shadowing, Vallee Consulting’s Eldon Darbyson said. It also brought many of the special provisions closer to existing limits.
Darbyson also said a reduction in the number of balconies will help protect neighbours’ privacy.
“The applicants took what they heard at the public meeting, they worked with staff. We brought the height down, we’re trying to address parking concerns, a better design, the entrance of Thompson Road is removed and instead of 44 units we’re still able to accommodate 39, including an affordable housing component,” Darbyson said.
But despite the changes, councillors still
weren’t ready to approve it. Huffman said the project adds to a long list of developments the Waterford community has had to deal with in recent years.
“This is a big ask of the community that has already been hit with a lot of development over the term of this council,” she said. Coun. Alan Duthie, likewise, said while he appreciated the changes the proponents made, he was still uneasy with some of the aspects of the proposal, including parking shortages that remained.
The proposal is set to come back to the public hearings committee in July. Before the vote Huffman urged the proponents not to appeal to the OLT before the July meeting.
Early 2026 crime stats revealed at Police Services Board
A plan to bring 57 more housing units to Delhi, on a section of the former railway, is bringing with it questions about school capacity.
Coun. Michael Columbus brought up the issue as Norfolk County councillors voted to support a staff recommendation approving zoning bylaw amendments for the property. During a review of the application, the Grand Erie District School Board noted Delhi Public School is operating at 90 per cent capacity, and “and accommodation in nearby facilities may not be available for all anticipated students possibly requiring temporary facilities or bussing to schools further afield,” the staff report said. Columbus asked staff if they should be meeting with their counterparts at the local school boards to discuss capacity issues.
“The concern is out there that the schools are over capacity,” he said, adding this was not the first report that came before council identifying potential school capacity issues.
Acting director of planning and realty services Alisha Cull told councillors those types of meetings have already occurred, and GEDSB has acknowledged a
“They need to be very over capacity before the board will fund a new school site, but we are having those conversations more so than ever in the past,” Cull said.
School capacity wasn’t the only issue raised regarding the Delhi railway lands development. Technical analysis identified the need for a holding provision to determine water, sanitary and storm service capacity before the project could move ahead. A second issue noted that since the commercial aspect of the property hasn’t been specified, zoning compliance can’t be determined and parking needs can’t yet be calculated.
Most of the technical issues will be dealt with at the site plan stage, while school capacity would be dealt with “by the school board when this becomes clearer,” the report said.
Residents also raised some concerns at a public hearing held earlier this year. They included a potential loss of privacy, the narrowness of the property, and worries about noise and dust during the construction phase.
Those concerns weren’t enough to deny the application, as council supported the staff recommendation to approve it.
Weekend Quiz
By Jake Grant
It’s always important to look at the underlying numbers when it comes to crime stats, Norfolk’s detachment commander said.
Inspector Andrew Tait presented his regular update to the County’s Police Services Board at the May 20 meeting. While violent crime has increased nearly 24 per cent compared to this time last year, the numbers remain slightly below similar reporting for 2024.
“It appears that the largest spike I would say is in assaults and firearm related offences,” he said.
However, with relatively small numbers of these offences, Tait said the percentage increase may make things seem worse than they are. Firearm/assault offences through April have fluctuated between 69 and 99 over the past three years.
“It’s all pretty consistent with what we’re normally experiencing,” he said.
Fortunately, property crimes dropped, down 35 per cent from this time last year, which itself was a small six per cent decrease through April 2024. Tait credited
the community street crime unit for its work focusing on property crimes and drugs recently.
“They’ve done significant work and made a significant impact,” he said.
Those classified as “other crime offences” remained essentially flat, at 253 yearto-date compared to 250 YTD for 2025. One alarming stat is an increase in overdose calls, up to 19 YTD, compared to three last year and eight in 2024. All but two were non-fatal, which Tait said was something of a silver lining. However, he said there’s also plenty of uncertainty, both with the cause of the overdoses and the actual number. It could be a certain kind of drug, or a particularly toxic batch that enters Norfolk. But at the same time, Tait acknowledged the police aren’t always aware of overdoses as some people who overdose may simply be treated at hospital and their stats don’t capture those cases.
“I’m kind of curious to see what the hospital’s numbers are,” he said.
Speeding offences have also more than tripled in the first four months of 2026, surpassing 1,600. Tait said the detachment has put a renewed focus on traffic offences, leading to the increase in speeding tickets.
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
Stepping up for the 26th Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk
The Norfolk County and area community stepped up for the 26th annual Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk in Simcoe on Sunday.
“We’ve got 97 registered walkers, and 13 teams, and as of this morning we have raised $46,752 plus and I am sure by the end of the day it’s going to reach our goal ($55,000),” said David Horton, lead for the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk volunteers, and this year’s top individual fundraiser.
Walkers registered individually and as teams – many returning from past events, and many committing to future MS Walks.
“I think the teams challenge each other,” Horton smiled, nodding toward a room full of walkers at the Simcoe Legion. “They don’t know each other, but they challenge each other to become the top fundraising team, the largest team, or the most spirited team, or something like that. It’s really what makes it special.”
“No matter how move along the path today, you are moving us closer to our single, powerful goal – a world free of MS,” said emcee Robynn Beazley before the 2-km and 5-km walks. “Over the last few decades we have seen extraordinary progress in helping understand, diagnose and how we treat MS. This progress has led to decreased symptoms and to people living longer, healthier lives, giving them more time with family and friends. But we are far from done…”
“It says something about this community when we show up for others,” said Haldimand-Norfolk MP Leslyn Lewis. “It says that when something matters to us, people respond. Across Canada, over 90,000 people are living with multiple sclerosis, and
in our country we are noted as one of the highest MS in the world. That means for many here today it isn’t an abstract concept, it’s personal. It’s a friend, it’s a family member, it’s a parent, it’s a brother, it’s a sister, and it’s a neighbour. MS is so unpredictable. It changes day to day and moment to moment. And yet, what we see here today is something stronger than uncertainty. We see the determination and the support
of the community…”
“It’s so wonderful to see so many familiar faces again for our annual MS Walk,” said MPP Bobbi Ann Brady. “This year’s theme, For the Cause, For the Community, For Loved Ones, truly captures why I am so proud to call this area home. We’ve always looked out for one another
and today is yet another example of that – heart and determination that makes Norfolk County so special.
“I know that so many of us here have a personal connection to this cause,” said Brady. “While the diagnosis of MS may be one of life’s most difficult moments, the true courage lies in facing the daily obstacles that follow, while trying to move forward with a strength and determination that we know so well. So whether you are walking for a loved one, yourself, or someone you’ve never met, you are making that difference. Every step today is a sign of our hope, our strength and our commitment to one another. The steps that we are taking are literally changing lives…”
Norfolk County Deputy Mayor Adam Veri brought greetings from the county council, saying Norfolk County sees all the efforts “that people are putting in to make to make your community better, to protect the people they care about, to help them live a better life, and I’m really grateful and truly proud, and say thank you…”
Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk award winners included Rookie of the Year (Lisa Van Laecke), Biggest Team (Marie’s Walking Wonderfuls), Most Team Spirit (Heart & Soul), Top Fundraising Individual (David Horton), and Top Fundraising Team (Mary Jane’s Marchers).
Randy Halmo, Classy FM, was the event DJ, and Wanda from Effective Fitness led the warmup. Heart & Soul raised spirits with their rendition of Try a Little Kindness by Glen Campbell.
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Nearly 100 people walked in Saturday’s 26th Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk in Simcoe.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Rhyus Reeves to run for Norfolk mayor
Inc Brokerage in 2018.
Reeves has since taken a step back from real estate to spend the past few years homesteading and running a small farm with his wife Andrea and their children.
His career in real estate was marked by "navigating one of the craziest real estate markets after the Covid pandemic.” In 2022, following the pandemic, Reeves sold his shares in the brokerage, stating “my wife and I just wanted a break.”
what they have to inherit from us.
I just feel that we've kind of lost direction. There's a lot of pressure from the province to build houses.. And a lot of people in Norfolk don't want to see it become like a metropolis.”
are costing too much money.”
Reeves believes taxpayers are not “seeing what they're getting. They're just seeing Norfolk County staff being built up.”
Rhyus Reeves, one of five mayor candidates in Norfolk County as of June 1st, is a name that many will associate with real estate, thanks to his 22-year career as an agent, where he began locally in 2004, and eventually as co-owner of RE/MAX Erie Shores Realty
Since then, Reeves has worked alongside his wife to turn a former cannabis farm into their dream homestead. They raise cattle, chickens, and donkeys as well as maintain an impressive garden.
“Obviously, this is what Norfolk's about,” said Reeves. “This recreation, the farming, this lifestyle. I want my children to have this lifestyle. I want all of our children in Norfolk to be proud of
Reeves also believes that there is considerable work to be done in terms of organization, and expenditure waste reduction in Norfolk County. He stated that his plan upon taking office if elected would include “a line-by-line assessment of Norfolk County's management, our programs, our consulting fees, our fleet usage.
“I think we need to really hone in on those kinds of expenditures within Norfolk. We seem to be really top heavy.”
He believes that this method will help to “satisfy a lot of taxpayers so they feel value for where their money goes and not just more and more programs that
Although Reeves does not have previous experience in municipal government, he does not take this as a mark against his campaign as he regards his work experience in Norfolk is relevant to the task at hand.
“I have had my boots on the ground in Norfolk County for 22 years, I don't think they have as much experience knowing Norfolk from every corner like I do. Selling houses, dealing with the everyday people, I think maybe these career politicians tend to get out of touch with the people of the community. I think that what is more helpful is my experience in the community, plus my business experience, from running the best brokerage in Norfolk County, and
having the top agents in Norfolk County.”
Reeves understands that making tough decisions is a part of the role of mayor, and he also maintains that transparency is important in these difficult decisions stating, “I believe in holding people accountable, for their actions and what they do. I believe in being transparent, so the county and the people of Norfolk County understand why we do what we do.”
Reeves is confident in his abilities if elected.
“Everything that I've done in my life, I've given my 100% to and it's succeeded. So I've just looked at this as another challenge, where if I can succeed at this, and stand up for the people of Norfolk, let their voices be heard and feel like their voices are heard. Then I can start to make some change in the right direction.”
LEAH BAUER Advocate Contributor
Rhyus Reeves
Enjoy the Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum
I’ve often found that if you tell people you’re from Waterford their first impression might be there’s just nothing to do here and not much happening. Well, I beg to differ.
There are miles of beautifully maintained trails, deer to feed, quaint shops and antique markets, a local brewery, great fishing spots, friendly people who take the time to stop and visit… so much to attract visitors. With the summer months upon us there’s no better time than the present to check us out.
A favorite spot to visit is the Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum. The museum is located in the ‘old pickle factory’ –as the locals would say – on Nichol Street, Waterford. The history of the building itself makes the facility even more special. Add to that the fact that it is home to reminders of the early days of Waterford… the trains, old Cockshutt farm machinery and an upcoming exhibition titled Forged: Nor-
folk’s Industrial Might… and an afternoon excursion is a must. The upcoming exhibit will run from Sept. 10, 2026 to January 31, 2027. Admission is by donation.
In 2014, WHAM established the Agricultural Hall of Fame awards to ‘recognize individuals whose volunteer and professional contributions have advanced agriculture and rural development locally’. The nomination deadline has closed and the 2026 winners will be honoured and recognized on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 2 p.m. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend. Meet and greet to follow and light refreshments to be served.
Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum is located at 159 Nichol Street and is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation. Be sure to put it on your list of ‘must see’ when visiting Waterford.
Curator James Christison and Assistant Curator Angela Ferreira are more than happy to give you a tour of their facility and to answer any questions you might have about the history of their historic building and exhibits. Mark this one on your list of ‘to do’ for sure.
Council pumps brakes on St. Williams Community Centre and fire hall divestment plan
Two county-owned facilities in St. Williams could stay in municipal hands after council reconsidered a previous decision.
Norfolk Coun. Tom Masschaele requested the reconsideration at the May 26 council meeting, saying new information regarding usage numbers for the St. Williams Community Centre could convince councillors to keep the centre and nearby fire hall. Masschaele said the stats, as well as a petition signed by more than 750 residents, are enough to at least have councillors take another look.
“I am very confident that council will be very receptive to what they (the residents) have developed,” he said.
Councillors made the decision to look at divesting themselves of the properties during a facilities master plan presented last fall. A review looked at more than 120 facilities on 90 properties across the county, with a goal to shrink the county’s portfolio, offering a boost in revenue through sales and reducing the amount needed for capital upkeep.
Staff identified several properties and facilities across its administra-
tion, operations, emergency services, and culture and recreation departments for potential divestment. Councillors at the time voted to remove some from the chopping block, but kept the two St. Williams facilities in the plan for divestment. The reconsideration only opened up the possibility to keep the buildings in municipal lands, as coun-
cillors referred it back to staff to take a look at the new information and report back to council. “We will endeavour to bring that to the next council meeting if we can,” said CAO Al Meneses, though he cautioned it could take longer depending on how complex the new information is and how thoroughly staff need to review it.
Tom Masschaele, Ward 1 Councillor.
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
BRENDA MOSER
Advocate Contributor
Angela Ferreira, Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum Assistant Curator, with a copy of Building History, a project by Norfolk County’s Dean Rainey.
(BRENDA MOSER PHOTOS)
Norfolk’s 2026 Agricultural Hall of Fame awards will be presented at the Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum on Sept. 12, 2 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
Waterford’s second ‘Car Boot Sale’ coming June 13
Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum’s second ‘Car Boot Sale,’ an old-fashioned, English styled flea market, will be held Saturday, June 13, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the museum’s east parking lot, at 159 Nichol Street, Waterford. If you’re a treasurer hunter, start your Saturday morning thrifting outdoors at WHAM – vendors will be selling antiques,
collectables, vintage ‘good junque’ and more. Admission is free.
This is not an event for commercial retailers.
Vendors selling ‘new, used and ancient items’ can book space – approximately 10’x10’ - through a museum vendor application at least three days before June 13 (available at norfolkheritage.ca).
Sand and gravel pit application approved
Norfolk councillors have approved an application that allows a sand and gravel pit to be established on a St. John’s Road East property.
A staff recommendation on the application passed without discussion at the May 26 meeting. The proponents required a zoning bylaw amendment to allow the project, which is planned for a 29-hectare parcel of land in Norfolk County.
There are an estimated 2.7 million tonnes of aggregate on the land, the staff report said.
A section of the property is designated as hazard lands, and it will be excluded from the licence.
Staff identified some concerns, mostly around the property’s entrance and the
NEWSPAPER PICK UP LOCATIONS
SIMCOE__________
• Annaleise Carr Aquatic Centre
• Aspira Cedar Crossing
Retirement Living
• Barnyard Patio & Pub
• Barrel Restaurant
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• Canadian Tire
• Cedar St Food Market
• Cedarwood Village
condition of St. John’s Road East. They have created a development agreement with the owners to address those concerns.
The municipality will receive some money through a fee the owners will have to pay to the Ontario Aggregate Resources Corporation. This will help offset potential costs to the town for roadway needs. Because there’s no building planned, Norfolk can’t charge development fees.
Norfolk could receive anywhere between $3,800 and $61,300 a year, depending on how much is extracted.
In the report, staff indicated the licence allows the owners to extract 325,000 tonnes a year, though the owners expect to extract no more than 100,000 tonnes. At that rate it would take 27 years to be fully depleted.
Retirement Apartments & Nursing Home
• Ferris Funeral Home Limited
• Harmony Pastry Shop & Cafe
Joy Bakery Cafe
• McDonald's - 77
Queensway East
• McDonald's - 160
Queensway East
• My Paint & Décor
Norfolk County Archives Norfolk County Library
Pharmasave Clark's Health Centre
• RE/MAX Erie Shores Realty Inc
• Real Canadian Superstore Queensway East
• Riversyde 83
• Robinson Chevrolet Buick GMC Simcoe Inc
• Roulston’s Pharmacy
• Royal LePage Trius Realty
• Ru ins Pet Store
• Shoppers Drug Mart
• Simcoe Convenience
• Simcoe Little Theatre
• Simcoe Recreation Centre
• Simcoe Seniors Centre
• Sobeys
• Tim Hortons - White Horse Plaza
Tim Hortons - Queensway East
• Walmart Supercentre
WATERFORD_______
• Belching Barista
• Esso
• Foodland Waterford Kerry’s James St. Eatery Minor Bros. Country Living
• Tricenturena Waterford Arena
• Waterford Heritage & Ag Museum
• Waterford Home Building Centre
• Waterford Pharmacy and Health Food
DELHI___________
• 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.
• Courtland Variety & Café
LANGTON________
• Langton Food Market
• Langton Pharmacy
SCOTLAND_______
• Scotland Food Market
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
Michelle Giffin at Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum’s May 9 car boot sale. The second old-fashioned English styled flea market is June 13, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum’s next ‘car boot sale’ is June 13, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Selling hostas and cannas roots at the May 9th sale are, from left, Renee Carpenter, Dorothy Cloet and Nancy Eggett from Norfolk County.
John and Heather Pruim of Woodstock offered a wide variety of games and collectibles at their Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum outdoor flea-market style sale on May 9.
Brad and Heather Ward from Tillsonburg set up their vendor table at the May 9th ‘Car Boot Sale,’ an old-fashioned, English styled flea market at the Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Lighthouse Festival presents Secret Service, July 8-25
World premiere comedy by Canadian playwright Ephraim Ellis
Espionage, pasta, and absolute chaos are all on the menu as Lighthouse Festival launches Secret Service, the third production of its 2026 summer season and a hilarious new Canadian world premiere by playwright Ephraim Ellis.
Running July 8 to July 25 at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover, Secret Service is a fast-paced comedy that blends the highstakes energy of Mission: Impossible with the culinary chaos of MasterChef Canada.
Set inside Toronto’s swankiest Italian restaurant, Secret Service follows Harry Marsden, an eager young waiter who unknowingly stumbles into a covert international spy operation happening right in the kitchen. As undercover agents attempt to carry out a top-secret sting using marinara sauce as camouflage, Harry’s optimism and complete lack of awareness threaten to derail the entire mission.
“This play is outrageously funny,” says Interim Artistic Producer David Leyshon, who also directs the production. “Ephraim has taken the spoof-spy genre and crafted it through a uniquely Canadian lens. Wildly theatrical, with characters straight out of both James Bond and Get Smart, the play is fast-paced, clever and delightfully unpredictable. Audiences are going to laugh from start to finish.”
Leyshon adds, “One of the most exciting things about presenting a world premiere is that audiences are seeing something brand new for the very first time. There’s an incredible energy that comes with discovering a play together in the theatre.”
For playwright Ephraim Ellis, the production is both a love letter to classic spy
thrillers and a celebration of Canadian comedy.“I had a full set of vintage 007 VHS tapes I played ad nauseum throughout my teenage years. I saw Mission Impossible II in theatres four times. Action-packed espionage is a genre I've loved and immersed myself in my whole life - it's been a dream to write something in that vein, even if this outing is significantly sillier than most. Also, and this may come as a shock... but like most actors, playwrights, and other creative professionals, I may have some experience working in restaurants on my resume. Allegedly.
“When I sent my mum an earlier draft of the play maybe a year ago, I was really surprised how much she loved the fact that all the hero spies are explicitly Canadian, rather than working for the CIA or British Intelligence.
I didn't realize it at the time, but I think there's an appetite for stories of Canadian heroes standing on their own two feet and being capable of the same derring-do usually reserved for Americans.”
Cast: The cast of Secret Service features Cooper Bilton as Harry, Janelle Hanna as Viviana Scarlotta, Lisa Norton as Maddy, Stephen Sparks as Nick, and Robbie Towns as Quentin.
Creative Team: Playwright - Ephraim Ellis; Director - David Leyshon; Set Designer - Beckie Morris; Lighting Designer - Steve Lucas; Costume Designer - Alex Amini; Stage Manager - Josephine Ho; Assistant Stage Manager - Jess Gordon.
Tickets for Secret Service are available now at lighthousetheatre.com or by calling the box office at 1-888-779-7703.
Everyone needs a smile
Norfolk County Tim Hortons ‘Smile Cookie’ campaign raises over $75,000 for local hospital foundation
The community has once again supported healthcare in the form of a smile.
Local Tim Hortons, including both Simcoe stores, Port Dover, Delhi and Waterford donated this year’s Spring Smile cookie funds to the Norfolk General Hospital Foundation helping them to raise money for a new Echo machine, a vital piece of equipment for Norfolk General Hospital. From April 27 to May 3, locals across Norfolk County purchased Smile Cookies and each smile sold directly contributed to critical hospital equipment needs. Thanks to community generosity, the Tim Hortons restaurant owners, their staff, and many dedicated volunteers,
the NGH Foundation is one step closer to funding vital equipment that supports hospital staff and patient care.
“Thank you so very much to our community, to the Tim’s owners, their staff and the volunteers who help each and every year - your generosity and hard work amaze us,” said Sarah Muntz-Flowerday, Executive Director of the Norfolk General Hospital Foundation. “Your support of smile cookie week allows us to continue to provide the hospital with the vital equipment needed to care for our families and friends - together we are making a lasting impact on local healthcare one smile at a time!”
‘Fun level’ dart players enjoy the camaraderie
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
One thing stands out at the Simcoe Seniors’ Centre on a Monday afternoon.
Whether it’s cornhole, darts, bingo, cards, billiards… the seniors love their sports and activities.
“Absolutely, it’s the camaraderie,” said dart player Les Vanka as laughter rings in the background during a round of darts.
“We are not what you would call ‘expert level’ darters,” said Vanka. “We are ‘fun level’ darters. We have lots of fun, that’s the whole thing here. So much fun. We have a good, boisterous group here.
Occasionally, someone scores big. They could point to Phil, who scored a 180 a couple of months ago and received a 180 pin for his accomplishment. But that is uncommon.
“Sometimes you have a good day, other days you don’t want to talk about it,” said Vanka. “The odd time someone will have an amazing day, but that’s not every day. It’s not something you can control.” The group keeps track of scoring on a casual basis. If you score 100+, it’s recorded, and after time, they get a ‘prize.’
“It’s a good group of people, we have a lot of fun. Nobody gets overly serious here. It’s more about getting together with the people that you have fun with than the actual darts. And
darts are fun… I enjoy it very much.”
“We’re here to have a good time,” said dart player Guy Myke. “It’s like I tell everyone, if you’re here to play serious darts, this is the wrong place to be.”
The afternoon darts group plays twice a week, Mondays and Fridays. Numbers vary from about a dozen, up to 18-20. Membership at the Seniors Centre is $60/year for anyone 50-and-older. Members are eligible to participate in any activity, as many days as they would like.
“Here, how many changes day to day, people come and go, they might have other things to do,” said Vanka.
“It’s a lot of fun, a lot of fun…” Vanka concluded.
Guy Myke prepares to throw a dart Monday afternoon at the Simcoe Seniors Centre.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Judy Vanka takes aim, ready to throw during a game of darts at the Simcoe Seniors Centre.
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Carolyn Hurnacki and Carolyn Brimmer play the Hand and Foot card game Monday at the Simcoe Seniors Centre.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Luba Vandenberg and Val Pimentel play the Hand and Foot card game Monday at the Simcoe Seniors Centre.
Art is about finding your technique, ‘and doing it’
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
The Creative Arts (painting and collage) group meets Friday mornings at the Simcoe Seniors Centre.
“Sometimes 10-12 people, sometimes more,” said artist (and dart player) Charlie Teeple. Teeple, 85, has been doing art since he was five or six years old.
“My dad taught me, and I kept on going.”
With almost 80 years experience, he knows what he likes, and he’s honed his craft in various mediums.
“They like doing acrylic, I don’t like doing acrylic, so I do my own thing,” Teeple smiled, sharing the art on his cellular phone. “I can do acrylic, but… I like to go around and help people, help them out.
“This one here is all done in ink, the one of the horse, that’s ink. This one’s oil-based colouring pencils. And that one’s just or-
dinary pencil. This one is done with little dots. Eventually, I want to get into something like this… oil pastels on black paper.”
He is fond of his sketchbook, but does not focus on commercial – if someone wants his art he will sell it. Or sometimes give it away.
“I give more away than I sell,” he laughed. He also enjoys teaching children art – their willingness to learn and experiment with new techniques.
“Art isn’t trying to copy somebody else’s technique, it’s getting your own, and do it. Just because I say ‘this is the way I do it,’ doesn’t mean you have to do it that way.”
Other activities at the Simcoe Seniors Centre (182 South Drive) include: billiards, Qigong, walkabout, crafts, line dancing, cornhole, bingo, cards, table tennis, strength training and fitness, yoga, pickleball, table shuffleboard, floor shuffleboard, knitting, and garden and nature.
Charlie Teeple, 85, enjoys his time in the Simcoe Seniors Centre art group, and is an afternoon dart player.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
About 50 people were deep into the bingo Monday afternoon at the Simcoe Seniors Centre. Some days, they can have up to 75 players at their tables.
Simcoe Legion Branch 79 donates to special events
Editor
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 79, Simcoe, recently donated $800 from its poppy fund to Norview Lodge in Simcoe.
“It’s amazing,” said Nicole Tweedie, Supervisor for Programs and Volunteer Services, Norview Lodge. “This is our second year receiving it, and we are very appreciative of it. We are very grateful.”
Norview Lodge is Norfolk County's municipally-owned and operated not-for-profit long-term care home.
“The $800 is used towards special programming,” said Tweedie. “Special events.”
It allows Norview Lodge to book entertainers that otherwise would not be in their budget.
Types of entertainment include a reptile show, the Canadian Raptor Conservancy, and a mobile petting zoo, which is scheduled for their fall Norview Fair.
“Through their gracious donation, that allows us to bring more programming to this home because, realistically, a lot of our residents here are wheelchair bound. So if we can bring this type of entertainment here, then they don’t have to leave the home. We want to bring as much here as possible to reach as many residents as we can.”
Norview Lodge currently has 179 longterm care residents, many of them born and raised in Norfolk County.
“This is a local initiative, giving back to the residents – this is their home, this is their community, for many, many years.”
“We’ll be back next year,” smiled Scott Jenereaux, Branch 79 poppy chairman, noting the poppy fund needs to be allocated to veterans’ benefit. “There are veterans, and veterans’ wives here, currently.
“Everyone loves these shows that they do here. It’s a great benefit to the residents, not just the veterans and veterans’ wives, everybody enjoys it, so that’s a nice thing.”
CHRIS ABBOTT
Norview Lodge recently received an $800 donation from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 79 Simcoe poppy fund, which will be used for special events at the long-term care facility in Simcoe. From left are Norview Lodge recreation therapists Kate Gallant, Pamela Tasane, with Branch 70’s Leesa Maxwell (1st vice-president and poppy committee member) and Scott Jenereaux (poppy chair), and recreational therapists Krystal Warman and Lynsey Sendrowski.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Ken Hewitt running for Norfolk mayor
Since making Turkey Point his permanent residence nearly five years ago, former Haldimand Mayor Ken Hewitt has decided to enter the race to potentially be-
come the next mayor of Norfolk County.
Following his move to Norfolk, Hewitt quickly got involved locally, including initiatives such as President of the Turkey Point Properties Owners Association, as well as his work with businesses in Norfolk County where he acted as a consultant providing group benefit advice, succession planning, state planning, and partnership agreements.
“I think that my strengths are what they are, and that is experience. I think that my business background prepares me well to look at budgets and manage them.”
Hewitt has a passion for his Norfolk community and abilities he believes can be used to benefit the county.
“I’m passionate about my community. I'm passionate about where I live, and I feel I have the necessary experience and knowledge to be able to help Norfolk in the current position that we're in today. I feel that people are struggling to make ends meet and are looking for leaders that can help manage taxes and keep them at a level that is sustainable and predictable.” Hewitt has already begun meeting with local groups and leaders to identify major issues, and continue to establish relationships with constituents.
“I think the numbers speak for themselves,” he said, highlighting the financial numbers over the 12 years he was mayor in Haldimand where they kept taxes on average below two per cent for 12 consecutive years - and increased the
reserves.
“I think that experience speaks for itself, and I think we need some experience to be able to have a steady hand on what's going to happen over the next four years.”
A topic that is high on the list of priorities for both voters and candidates in Norfolk is high taxes.
“I believe that people want sustainable taxes,” said Hewitt. “They want to be able to predict what their taxes are going to be on their annual basis. I can provide that. Make sure that we're not increasing taxes to build up a bank account. Reserves are important, and we do need to provide substantial reserves to protect the infrastructure, however, we also need to be able to make sure that the people paying taxes can also
Doug Brunton is running for Norfolk mayor
When Norfolk County heads to the polls this fall, there will be a few recognizable names on the
municipal election ballot, one of those names being Doug Brunton, who is running for mayor.
Brunton has served as councillor on Norfolk Council representing Ward 5 since 2014.
His decision to run for mayor in 2026 was driven in part by his view that “if you are the mayor, you can get more done.
Brunton believes his extensive experience as both councillor and Public Works Director in Norfolk gives him a good perspective on the issues Norfolk is facing.
“I think there’s a big issue with taxes and water bills. I have some ideas of how to address that. I have worked for the Town of Simcoe as a public works director for my whole career. Because I have
worked in it for so long, I know where to look to reduce things.”
Brunton’s experience in municipal issues includes engineering, waste management, drainage, parks, cemeteries, planning and land development, property acquisition, disposal, financing and budgets.
His experience comes from both sides of the table.
“I have eight years of experience dealing with council as a councillor, and I've had my whole career dealing with council prior to that. I've worked with probably five or six different mayors, and I've dealt with infrastructure. So I've seen both sides.”
Brunton is also convinced of the importance of both agriculture
Multicultural Food Festival
and tourism in Norfolk County. Brunton reviewed his experience in both of these fields, reflecting that “there are two things that are important to Norfolk, agriculture and tourism. I have worked in both. I worked in the U.S. in agriculture when I retired, and I have plenty of ideas in agriculture that I could put forward.”
As one of Norfolk’s municipal representatives on the Long Point Region Conservation Authority Board of Directors (chairperson in 2026), he attributes his knowledge of tourism and the parks to that experience.
Brunton appreciates the time he has spent serving Norfolk as a councillor and his willingness to take the risk of losing his seat is
buy groceries and pay for the daily expenses that they are required to pay for.” As of June 1, there are five Norfolk mayor candidates –Noel Haydt, Doug Brunton, Ken Hewitt, Rhyus Reeves, and Ken Milner. Nomination packages will be accepted until August 21 at 2 p.m. Norfolk County is using a hybrid voting system this year. Monday, Oct. 26 is the in-person election day. Online voting will begin Oct. 9 and continue until Oct. 23. For more information see norfolkcounty.ca/vote/
“I admire everybody who puts their name on the ballot because it demonstrates their conviction. It shows that they're willing to stick their head above the weeds, and take certain public abuse that comes along with that particular territory,” said Hewitt.
influenced by his will to want to get things done as mayor.
“You only get one vote as a councillor, and only one vote as mayor. But the mayor has a significant lead when getting involved in things, and has more sway in how things are done.”
Brunton attaches weight to the fact that he has a considerable experience in Norfolk municipal politics.
“I think I have a little more insight as to what we're going to be dealing with. If I was not on council and I was starting out, I would tell somebody, you’ve got to walk before you run. So learn to be a councillor first before you decide to run for mayor.”
LEAH BAUER Advocate Contributor
LEAH BAUER Advocate Contributor
Ken Hewitt
Doug Brunton
The 2nd annual Multicultural Food Festival is happening Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Delhi Tobacco and Heritage Centre (200 Talbot Road, Delhi). Watch for some of your favourite vendors from last year – and new vendors as well. Also enjoy live entertainment, a kids BBQ, and more. Admission is free for children 10-and-under. A shuttle service will be offered from the Delhi Soccer Club parking lot. Indoor and outdoor seating available at the museum and in the park pavilion. Organized by the Multicultural and Heritage Association of Norfolk.
(FILE PHOTOS)
Kotewicz inspires family and community
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Mary Jane Kotewicz walked in her third Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk on Saturday.
She wasn’t sure if she would be able to complete the 2-km route, but said she would try her best.
“I usually walk about a kilometre, then they push me the rest of the way.”
Kotewicz, raised in Simcoe and currently living in Scotland, has primary progressive multiple sclerosis. PPMS is distinct from relapsing MS because it involves a continuous progression of disability rather than relapses and remissions.
In simple terms, it’s not good.
“But I’m doing good,” Kotewicz smiled.
“I was diagnosed eight years ago, but I’ve probably had MS 15 years, that I’m aware of… it was a long time. The diagnosis was awful, lots of doctors.”
Wearing colourful tie-dye shirts, she was the inspiration for the Mary Jane Marchers team.
“It started out with just five of us, five cousins,” said Kotewicz, who will be 64 this year. “Now we have all our cousins, on the one side of my family.”
Kotewicz said one of the biggest benefits of the MS Walk, in addition to raising funds, is raising awareness.
“I think a lot of people don’t know what MS is. I get, ‘Oh, what’s wrong with your knee?’ They think you have knee surgery, they don’t understand that you have another disease. And I think a lot of people don’t understand MS. It’s
invisible, it’s an awful disease. And I am very fortunate that I am still as good as I am. My mind is good, my eyes are good, a lot of people don’t have that.
“That’s why I walk for this.”
As far as Kotewicz knows, she is the first in her family to have multiple sclerosis. She does know Canada has one of the highest rates of MS.
“And they can’t figure out why. Where (my MS) came from, I have no idea. I have always been very active in the community, as a hockey mom, figure skating board, but now I put my energy here.”
Mary Jane Marchers, as a team, raised more than $7,000 and they were the Top Fundraising Team at this year’s Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk.
“Every year we’ve gone up a thousand dollars, so we’re pretty happy. We’ve had some good sponsors. And everybody works so hard.”
As their aunts and uncles have passed, and there are only a few left, Kotewicz said her cousins have become even closer.
“It’s very nice that we’re still all together.”
Kotewicz, who stopped working about six weeks ago, tries to be an inspiration in her family as she battles MS.
“They (her cousins) see the struggle, they know the struggle, and I keep fighting. They can tell when I’m tired. I try not to say no to anything. I will attempt it.
“I am hoping to keep doing the MS Walk until I can’t anymore. I’m not giving up, because if you give up, you’re done.”
Nearly 100 people walked in Saturday’s 26th Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk in Simcoe.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
625 West St., Simcoe (at the corner of Hillcrest Rd.) simcoelighting.ca
519-428-9927
OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM & SATURDAY 9AM-3PM
grief while building coping skills in a safe and caring environment. There is no cost to families, and snacks and lunch will be provided. Preregistration is required as space is limited. To preregister call 519-410-0881 or visit norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca.
Townsend Lion’s Community Centre | 58 Forest Park Dr., Townsend
FISH & CHIPS
4:15 p.m
The Royal Canadian Legion is hosting a Fish & Chips dinner on Friday, June 5th at the Waterford Legion. Ticket sales begin in person at 4:15 pm. Guests can choose to dine in or take out. One piece of fish is $13.00 and two pieces are $18.00. Cash only. Guests ordering take-out are asked to bring their own bag.
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
SATURDAY, JUNE 6
MULTICULTURAL FOOD FESTIVAL
11:00 a.m – 3:00 p.m
Greek, Korean, Mexican, African, Filipino, Hungarian, Polish, German, Ukrainian, Indian Adults 5$ children 10 and under free. Debit and Cash, purchase tickets, redeem for food. ALL DAY MUSIC Delhi Legion, Multicultural 50/50 draw, cash sales only. 2,500 top prize.
Delhi Museum
THURSDAY, JUNE 11
THE NEXT CHAPTER – ‘LIVING ON’ WIDOWERS
6:00 p.m
Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice warmly invites men who have experienced the death of a spouse or partner to an informal evening of connection, conversation, and support on Thursday, June 11th. Meet other men navigating grief, share interests and experiences, and enjoy light refreshments in a welcoming environment. You may even make a new friend. There is no fee to participate; however, registration is required.
Admission is $15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children ages 6–12, and free for children under 5 years old.
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
FRIDAY, JUNE 19
WATERFORD LEGION QUIZ NIGHT
7:00 p.m
The Waterford Legion invites you to an evening of fun and friendly competition on Friday, June 19. Bring your friends or join a group for a lively Quiz Night filled with trivia, laughter, and community spirit.
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
SUNDAY, JUNE 21
ATHER'S DAY 1/2 CHICKEN DINNER BBQ Serving at 5:30 p.m
Tickets in advance from the Legion Bar. Cost: $20.00 per ticket. There will be a Father's Day Draw and For Men Only Draws.
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
FRIDAY, JUNE 26
WINGS & KARAOKE
Wing sales start at 4:45 - Serving at 5:00 pm Eat in or take out (No Phone Orders) Karaoke to follow in the Club Room. Wings $13.00 /lb | Fries $4.00 | Onion Rings $ 5.00 (CASH ONLY)
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
THURSDAYS IN JUNE
CORNHOLE
7:00 p.m
The Royal Canadian Legion is hosting weekly cornhole nights on Thursdays in June (except the fourth Thursday) beginning at 7:00 pm at the Waterford Legion. Community members of all skill levels are welcome to join in the free fun.
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
EVERY MONDAY & THURSDAY
Spring into the Ingersoll Country Music
Jamboree meeting every other Friday 1-4 p.m. at Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St. S. Ingersoll. Join us, walk ins welcome. Qualifications - love 50-70's country music. Perform, listen, dance & enjoy! May 15 & 29, June 5 & 19.
EVERY FRIDAY EVENING
CATCH THE ACE
4:30 a.m- 7:30 p.m (Draw at 7:45 pm)
Win over $21,000.00 (LIC #RAF 14505443)! Tickets are available for $5 each, 3 for $10, or 6 for $20. Proceeds support the Norfolk Haldimand Hospice, Norfolk General Hospital Foundation, and Rotary Norfolk Youth Scholarships. Simcoe Legion, West Street, Simcoe
THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
LYNN RIVER PROBUS CLUB
10:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m
Our retired and semi-retired members enjoy diverse interest groups, friendship and fellowship. We have interesting speakers at our monthly meetings as well as time to socialise.Current and prospective members are welcome to join us at the Army, Navy & Air Force Club, Simcoe, which is on the corner of Water St. and Culver St. Simcoe. Enter via Culver St. For more information, please visit our website at: lynnriverprobus239.com or email lynnriverprobus239@gmail.com.
SECOND SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH
COURTLAND COUNTRY OPEN MIC JAM Music starts at 1:00 p.m | Dinner at 5:00 p.m All welcome!
Courtland Community Centre | 272 Main St., Courtland, ON
LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH OPEN JAM
Starting at 5:00 p.m (Until Sold Out)
Everyone is welcome to bring an instrument or just come out and listen to the music. Free event For More Information call the Legion at 519-443-5588 or www. teetervillelegionbranch526.ca
The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario
Rainy but successful plant and bake sale in Delhi
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
It was a rainy Saturday morning for the Delhi & District Horticultural Society’s May 23rd annual plant and bake sale, but the plants didn’t seem to mind.
Neither did the horticultural society volunteers, wearing rain gear, or the buyers, which might have been fewer in numbers due to the rain, but were just as enthusiastic.
“People who have come, have bought,” said Brenda Krentz, who leads the plant sale. “I can’t believe some people have got so much this year. And we always have our early people.” Perennials were popular, she said, and inside the Delhi Tobacco Museum & Heritage Centre building the bake sale was also a success.
Maybe the only thing that did not sell as
well this year was the cut rhubarb, which usually sells out early.
“Most of the stuff that we have here has come from our gardens,” Krentz noted. “Some of our friends and neighbours also donated stuff today. Because we’ve grown most of this stuff in our gardens, I think we all get a good deal, which is really nice.”
Delhi & District Horticultural Society meetings are typically held monthly featuring guest speakers, draw prizes, flower competitions, refreshments and fellowship.
The group is involved in community beautification projects, annual flower show, bus trips and, of course, the annual plant and bake sale.
“We’re down in numbers, but we’re striving to keep it going,” said Krentz, calling herself one of the ‘Old Faithfuls.’ “We love it and we’re working hard to keep it going… It is a passion.”
Lorraine Whitlow of Port Rowan looks for plants at the annual Delhi & District Horticultural Society plant and bake sale.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Mike Columbus, Norfolk Ward 3 Councillor, visits with Delhi & District Horticultural Society members Dottie Smith, Angela Moiaert, Donna Koncir, Alice Paret, Agnes Defoort and Betty Smet at the annual plant and bake sale held at the Delhi Tobacco Museum & Heritage Centre.
Delhi & District Horticultural Society member Lorie Dertinger volunteered at the May 23rd annual plant and bake sale.
An award-winning distillery arises from initial failures
OH,PLACESTHE WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
“I failed.” What a depressing idea! But there are some great thoughts about failure that put it in an entirely different perspective. For example, Thomas Edison said, ““I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” And my literary hero, C.S. Lewis, wrote, ““Failures are finger posts on the road to achievement.”
And what, you may ask, does this have to do with travel? Come with me to Saskatchewan, to meet a feisty woman named Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote. Barb and her husband, John Cote, are the founders and co-owners of Black Fox Distillery, located just outside Saskatoon.
Barb will tell you, with lots of witty anecdotes to prove the point, that Black Fox, now a notable success, was born out of a whole series of failures, mistakes, and mis-steps.
Today, locals and visitors alike enjoy the ambience, the events and the products of Black Fox. But it took a while to get here.
John and Barb are fifth-gener-
the original
ation farmers. Their “roots” go back for generations, and they continue to be deeply committed to agriculture in Saskatchewan. Both have studied and consulted on agricultural practices worldwide, and are recognized nationally and internationally for their industry leadership.
Once upon a time, they were grain farmers. But – and this where an Ontario perspective on agriculture may cause some bafflement – they only had 5,000 acres of land, and that was not enough for a sustainable operation.
So they pivoted, sold the 5,000 acres to a much bigger operator, and bought the property that is now home to Black Fox Distillery.
But they didn’t come there with any thought of creating an award-winning distillery. Barb explains that they tried growing vegetables, but that was not a success. They tried fruit, planting
acres of orchards, but that, too, was a commercial failure.
Barb says that they then thought of creating a winery, but there was one hitch: “We don’t like wine.”
And thus, through trial and error, they arrived at the idea of creating a distillery. It’s named for a real black fox, one that took up residence one season on their original grain farm.
And although the idea of a distillery was new, their agricultural philosophy was bred in their bones. They explain: “We are proud to be part of a movement of pioneering craft distillers who advocate for terroir, believe in the provenance of place, and understand the ways in which soil, climate, and topography influence the bounty a land bears.”
They also argue that “ecology and economy can live in harmony.” They state: “Through incorporating environmentally-conscious, efficient systems across our business we pledge ourselves
to a more sustainable way of life.
“From ingredient production to distillation, transportation, packaging, and water conservation, our agronomic practices emphasize environmental stewardship and a love of the land. As its current custodians, we take seriously our responsibility to leave it better than when it came into our care.
“We recognize that each step of the production process has an impact on the land and those who work it. Better soil management leads to more fertile soil, better crops, increased biodiversity, and improved climate regulation.”
The couple brought all of their experience, their education – and what they learned from their initial failures – to the development of Black Fox Distillery. And, Barb explains, this worked almost too well – when they began to produce their whisky, and to win awards, they were accused of being “charlatans”. They are one of only two distilleries in the province making craft whisky from scratch, and some of the “experts” felt that their product was simply too good to come from a fledgling operation.
Barb says that there were two keys to the exceptional quality of their whiskies. First, they used a unique rye/wheat blend, producing an unusually dark whisky. Second, even in Saskatchewan’s climate, the whisky is aged in barrels kept outdoors. The changes in weather actually promote the development of flavours. No one else is doing this.
They couple grow most of their source products right on the property, and use them for their whiskies, gins, and cocktails. They still have fruit, although they don’t grow fruit as an end product. They have a haskap orchard, rhubarb gardens, and are in the process of converting apple orchards into elderflower patches. When we visited Black Fox, we tasted three excellent whiskies, and enjoyed an unexpectedly tasty haskap gin cocktail. We were certainly not the only visitors – the outdoor patio had welcomed a fair number of drop-in customers, including some who clearly knew and loved the place. Black Fox offers a full menu of ways people can enjoy the place. Of course, you can simply drop in. But there are also organized tours, mixology classes, organized tastings, and unusual “u-pick” opportunities – not apples or pears, but flowers (peonies, gladioli and others) and, in mid-September, a u-pick pumpkin patch.
You’re probably not going to travel to Saskatchewan simply to visit a distillery, no matter how much you enjoy whisky. But when you do visit the province –and there are an incredible number of reasons why you should –be sure to include a visit to Black Fox Distillery on your itinerary.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and Past-President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@ golden.net.
Black Fox Distillery co-owner Barb StefanyshynCote.
Award-winning whisky.
Black Fox staffers, ready to make some whisky-loving customers very happy.
Remembering
black fax, which inspired the name of the distillery. (PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
ERNIE
our Pet of the Week:
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MAGICAL SPELLS
whats in your shopping cart?
Weekly Crossword
THE PRODUCE PUZZLE - WHAT'S IN YOUR SHOPPING CART?
Clues
1. Hot beverage brewed from beans.
2. Dairy product often sliced for sandwiches.
6. Tangy yellow condiment often used on hot dogs.
8. Vegetable often mashed and served with gravy.
9. Citrus fruit known for its vitamin C.
11. Crunchy snack often found in a bag.
13. Yellow fruit often found in bunches.
17. Sliced and toasted for breakfast.
19. Seafood often served breaded or grilled.
21. Carbonated beverage sold in cans and bottles.
22. Baking staple used in cakes and cookies.
24. Long grain commonly served as a side dish.
28. Popular pasta shape with a hollow center.
2. Sweet treat baked with chocolate chips.
3. Small orange vegetable popular in lunch boxes.
4. Popular sandwich spread made from peanuts.
5. Soft baked breakfast item often topped with butter.
6. Dairy product poured on cereal.
7. Sweet breakfast topping from maple trees.
10. Grocery department for fresh fruits and vegetables.
12. Sweetener added to coffee and tea.
14. What shoppers push through the grocery store.
15. Sweet spread made by bees.
16. Popular sandwich spread made from peanuts.
Answers found on page 23
spread made by bees.
Across:
3. Popular pasta shape with a hollow center. vegetable often used in salads.
Teaming up to recycle scrap metal in Waterford
5. Tangy yellow condiment often used on hot often found in bunches. dogs. breakfast item often topped with 6. Dairy product poured on cereal.
BRENDA MOSER
Advocate Contributor
the community did a lot of ‘housecleaning’ while helping to support them.
9. Citrus fruit known for its vitamin C. dessert enjoyed on hot days. 10. Dairy product often sliced for sandwiches. vegetable often added to casseroles. 11. Long grain commonly served as a side dish.
12. Sweet treat baked with chocolate chips. beverage sold in cans and
The Waterford Lions, Waterford Firefighters Association, and Quick Lane & Lube are teaming up again to hold their scrap metal collection this year. If you have any old scrap metal, old appliances or unused metal items sitting around collecting dust, you can dispose of them for free and give back at the same time. They will take care of getting rid of it for you. Your donations to their bin, located at Quick Lane & Lube in Waterford, are greatly appreciated and all monies raised
Organizers would like residents to keep in mind that there are certain items that are not accepted (ie. propane tanks, oil, wood, paint cans, glass…). To learn all of the unacceptable items, you can check on Facebook (Waterford Lions Club). Please follow the lists and only dispose of those items listed as ‘Accepted’.
15. Small orange vegetable popular in lunch beverage brewed from beans. boxes. snack often found in a bag.
While saving time and not having the hassle of locating disposal services for your scrap metal items, then transporting them yourself, be sure to take advantage of this service they are nice enough to offer.
16. Vegetable often mashed and served with gravy. sandwich spread made from Seafood often served breaded or grilled. added to coffee and tea. Breakfast food made from rolled oats. department for fresh fruits and Carton item often scrambled for breakfast. Red condiment commonly used on burgers.
For Sale: Shade Trees; Maples, Oaks, Birch, Beech, Honey Locusts, Elms, Magnolia, Hydrangea Tree, Tulip Tree, Crab apples, Ivory Silk Lilac, Chanticleer Pear, Golden Weeping Willows and more. Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarine, Blueberry, Haskap etc.
Lots of healthy strong Spruce, Cedars and White Pine for your privacy hedges and windbreaks. Hundred of flowering shrubs. Reg Hours 7am- 6pm Mon-Sat at Martins Nursery c/o Emanuel Martin. 42661 Orangehill Rd., Wroxeter, ON
JUNE 18
I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi or any pop company. Brewery items - Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, wristwatches, pocket watches, old fruit jars - Beaver Star, Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and signsRed
• 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:
