Simcoe Advocate - March 12, 2026

Council changes approach to MAT proposal

It turns out Norfolk councillors weren’t quite ready to approve an added fee for visitors staying in local hotels and other overnight accommodations.

Councillors at the Feb. 24 council meeting backtracked on a motion they supported at a previous council-in-committee meeting that approved a municipal accommodation tax (MAT) in principle, and laid out some prerequisites before the fee would start being collected. Instead, after a lengthy and convoluted discussion, council narrowly approved a motion from Chris Van Paassen that requests a staff report on the potential implementation of a short term rental bylaw, a detailed business case for a tourism entity that would be involved with the MAT in the form of a municipal development corporation, and deferred the implementation of the MAT until those things have been “dealt with to the satisfaction of council.”

Van Paassen’s rationale was that the previous motion approved at the committee meeting offered an unclear series of steps, comparing it to a farmer out in the fields.

“I don’t start the harvest first. First I prep the land, then I seed the ground, and then I will wait for harvest in the fall,” he said.

“It looks like we got a combine out there first before we got the planter out there and we haven’t even prepped the field yet for the planter.”

However, others pointed out the initial motion pro-

Coldest Night of the Year in Norfolk

program, and raising awareness in the community.

It was Staples’ third walk, Carey’s first.

Lion Jayne Staples and friend Sharon Carey walked 5 km on the Coldest Night of the Year Walk in Simcoe, raising funds for Norfolk Youth Unlimited, including the TeenLink

“It’s all about awareness and raising that awareness,” said co-organizer

Dan Avey from Youth Unlimited.

“There is a need for more emergency housing and more permanent housing as opposed to just emergency.”

“I’m a Simcoe Lion, so I am part of the Norfolk Lion team,” said Staples. “Sharon’s my walking buddy.

We had a great time walking along, waving at cars, being silly.”

“We always have fun together,” Car-

(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)

CHRIS ABBOTT Editor

LUKE EDWARDS Grant Haven Media

Jayne Staples and Sharon Carey walked the 5-km route Feb. 28 during the Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk in Simcoe, supporting Norfolk Youth Unlimited.

Norfolk rallies for Coldest Night of the Year

ey laughed.

More than 100 participants, including 93 who pre-registered, had a choice between 2-km and 5-km routes on Feb. 28. Some also walked off-site.

“We’re walkers, so it (5 km) was good for us,” said Carey.

“Just the last little hill, we felt it,” said Staples. “You’re walking along… and you’re legs got heavy.

Norfolk’s Coldest Night of the Year started and finished at McDonald’s on the Queensway, with the 5-km route turning around at Kingfisher Café on Norfolk Street.

Simcoe Lion Rob Goold power walked the 5-km route, leading the Norfolk Lion team, which included 12 members from the Simcoe Lions, Waterford Lions and Vittoria Lions.

“I went to speak with the Waterford Lions to tell them about this event and said ‘let’s do it,’” said Goold. “And we did it.”

The Lions team raised about $3,500, including donations from the Simcoe, Waterford and Vittoria clubs.

“This event is so heart-warming.”

Although temperatures were in the ‘plus’ range mid-day on Feb. 28, it was getting colder by the hour, expected to drop to -12 C overnight.

MPP Bobbi Ann Brady attended both Dunnville’s first Coldest Night of the Year and the annual event in Simcoe.

“I think that many of us take for granted that we go home to a nice warm house, to a hot meal, and sometimes we lose sight of the fact that there are people in our community who are vulnerable, including our youth, who don’t necessarily have those things,” said Brady. “They face hunger, they face homelessness, and they face a whole lot of uncertainty.

“Dan (Avey) and Norfolk Youth Unlimited - for many years now - have been rising to the challenge of not only supporting and mentoring our young people in Norfolk County, but also providing that much needed hope. Hope that tomorrow might be a different day, and hope that they don’t have to walk that path alone anymore.”

“We have raised more money this year than last year, which is pretty cool, pretty awesome,” said Avey, noting the 2026 event was their seventh year in Norfolk.

“This community has blown me away again, how they wrap around it, like the CUPE (4700) union, they are really onboard with what we are doing. The Ebeneezer Christian Reform out of Jarvis are really supportive of what we are doing.

Lisa Cooper, one of my volunteers, was the top individual fundraiser.”

Youth Unlimited programs include an after-school drop-in program, a lunch program, a youth group in Delhi, a girls group in Waterford, and a summer lawncare program.

New Coldest Night of the Year volunteers

are needed, said Avey.

“I’m definitely looking for other people that want to help rally this cause. We need other people that want to push it further. I believe it has the potential to grow even more.”

(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)

More than 100 people participated in the 2026 Coldest Night of the Year fundraising walk in Simcoe on Feb. 28, supporting Norfolk Youth Unlimited.

Simcoe Lion Rob Goold power-walked on Feb. 28 during the Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser in Simcoe.

Norfolk council changes approach to MAT proposal

vided for all that prep work, and would have been done in conjunction with staff developing the MAT policy.

The initial motion approved at the Feb. 10 committee meeting, put forward by Mayor Amy Martin, included a section that said staff should “not initiate any collections of funds until the Municipal Development Corporation has been established with a governance structure that includes members from the tourism sector as set out in the terms of reference.

“And further that short-term rental policy be created and approved by council, so collection is equal across the sector.

“And further that no dollars be spent until such time as a full priorities list be established and community consultation has occurred on identifying priorities to fund.”

At the Feb. 24 council meeting, Martin said Van Paassen’s new motion was a way to bow to public pressure and scrap the proposed MAT without actually voting against it.

“We’re elected and put in a position where we are supposed to action items, yes or no, one way or another, and the deferral, I believe, is a no and this council just doesn’t have the political will to say it,” she said.

Van Paassen disagreed.

“It lays out a logical series of steps to achieve the goal that we want to achieve,” he said, adding his requests should be something staff can put together quickly and allow them to move forward with a possible MAT.

Part of the issue may simply come

from calling the policy a “tax” and confusion around it, some councillors suggested. A MAT is a fee, typically set around four per cent, for most visitors staying in overnight accommodations. The money collected is then shared between a tourism entity that will use it for marketing efforts and the municipality, which can use the money for any infrastructure work related to tourism. Director of Economic Development John Regan said municipalities have latitude as to what tourism infrastructure is, meaning the money could be used for a lot of different projects.

While councillors described an outcry on social media and messages of concern from residents following the Feb. 10 committee meeting, those who spoke as deputations at the Feb. 24 council meeting all lent their support to a MAT. They said the policy would provide much needed marketing dollars for Norfolk’s tourism industry without putting it on the backs of taxpayers.

“It’s a great place to invest and our visitors make that investment for us,” said Kirby Shieck, president of the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce.

At four per cent, Shieck said the fee wouldn’t dissuade people from visiting Norfolk and staying overnight here, adding at $200 a night, visitors would pay an extra $8 with the proposed MAT.

“The idea that it would stop people from coming here or that’s eight bucks they don’t have to spend somewhere else, that seems hard to imagine that would have a profound effect on anything,” he said.

Coun. Adam Veri also offered his support of a MAT, which has been implemented in 80 municipalities

across the province.

“I have been looking high and low to find any verifiable facts about why it wouldn’t work, and I have not found any and I feel like if there was some kind of real case for it then somebody who’s against this would have found it by now,” he said.

At one point, Veri tried to put forward an amendment he thought would combine Martin’s original motion and take into consideration concerns raised by Van Paassen’s motion. Martin and County Clerk William Tigert ruled Veri’s amendment was appropriate to put on the floor, however, Van Paassen challenged that ruling. Councillors voted in support of Van Paassen’s challenge, meaning the amendment was dropped. They then voted in support of Van Paassen’s motion.

Simcoe Lions ready to host Cabaret and Variety Show

CHRIS ABBOTT Editor

Simcoe Lions Club is presenting its 72nd annual Cabaret and Variety Show, ‘SNL – Simcoe Night Live’ on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18 at Simcoe Composite School.

Both shows start at 7:30 p.m., with the Friday show preceded by dinner.

Music selections will be drawn from 50 years of performances on Saturday Night Live.

“Like last year, we will have skits and songs,” Lion

Terry Sheppard, past-president and show committee member.

“Just about everybody in our club participates in this,” said Sheppard. “It’s a bonding thing for the whole club – and this year we probably have 10 new members. This will be a good way to get involved

and get to know each other. It just brings them into what the club does.

“All the members of our club look forward to it and that shows when we perform it. It’s a show that people in the area look forward to every year and it’s still a success.”

The annual Cabaret and Variety Show is one of Simcoe Lions Club’s major fundraisers.

“People like to know that the money is going right back into the community, in the Simcoe area.”

Individual tickets are available online for the Saturday show ($30) at simcoelions.com (show only).

Tickets for Friday’s show & dinner can be purchased in tables of 10. Contact the club online for information.

“We try to accommodate everybody… and make it a little bit different as the years go by.”

Chris Van Paassen, Ward 4 Councillor

Norfolk County council agreed to transfer a park in Vittoria to the descendants of the Lamport family, who donated the land to the village in 1962. From left are Allan Day, Gertrude Smith, Jane and Jennifer Day and Clair Smith. The Smiths, of the Vittoria and District Foundation, made the initial connection with the family about taking over the park.

(J.P. ANTONACCI PHOTO)

EDITORIAL

Balancing the good and bad emerging technologies

Haldimand-Norfolk

MPP

Bobbi Ann Brady

A few years ago, serving on the Social Policy Committee at Queen’s Park, I scrutinized a labour bill with early references to artificial intelligence. I remember feeling concern. AI was already weaving its way into legislation, yet as policymakers, we were only beginning to understand its scope and implications. So, I researched AI, trying to grasp not just the technology itself, but what it could mean for workers, privacy, and fairness.

This past week, that concern resurfaced during a conversation with a constituent worried about Ontario’s direction using emerging technologies. It brought me back to that committee room - to the responsibility we carry when legislating/regulating innovation. Technology can create opportunity and efficiency, but without oversight and safeguards, it can unintentionally entrench bias and erode protections.

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

Michelle Foster • info@simcoeadvocate.com Business Development

Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com Administration

Jen Gaetan • jen@granthaven.com

Contributors

Lisa Timpf, Brenda Moser, Luke Edwards, Leah Bauer, Paul Knowles

Legislators must ensure innovation never outpaces accountability. Human rights cannot be an afterthought in the digital age; they must be foundational. In an ever-changing world where services, information, and even basic interactions are increasingly delivered through screens, I’m concerned for those who might be left behind.

While technology might be looked at as efficient, it does create barriers for people who rely on human interaction to navigate daily life.

I’ve seen restaurant menus appearing only as QR codes, assuming every person has a smartphone and the comfort to use it. Nearly every institution we transact with has pushed us toward a paperless world. What began as a convenient option has, over time, quietly become the only option. Bank statements, utility bills, appointment reminders all done over the computer.

I find keeping pace difficult, so what about the person who doesn’t own a phone or a computer? What about seniors, low-income people, or those who need or want the reassurance of speaking to another person?

Paper once served as a simple, reliable reminder. It meant we didn’t have to remember passwords or navigate online portals to go about daily life. A statement on the kitchen table was a physical reminder that something needed our attention. Today, with multiple email accounts and dozens, sometimes hundreds, of messages dumping into our inboxes daily, important information can easily get lost in the shuffle. A tangible prompt has been replaced by a digital stream where critical actions can be overlooked or buried in the electronic ether or sent to a junk folder without our knowledge.

Air travel was once a fairly intuitive process where you walked in, approached a counter, and spoke to a human who guided you to your seat. Today, much of that human interaction has been replaced by kiosks, apps, barcodes, and digital boarding passes. For frequent flyers, this may feel routine but for others the process is overwhelming.

In my office, we see the consequences of this "digital first" shift. For example, Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients are forced to use centralized call centres or online messaging rather than their local case manager. We are receiving calls from clients who are justifiably frustrated and feel it unfair to demand people on limited incomes to pay for technology just to access the basic services they need.

I watch this rush toward technology with a bit of admiration but much concern. Our young people are driving innovation forward; however, in moving full speed ahead, I worry we are leaving behind the wisdom of age and experience of those who, ironically, paved the way for the systems we now take for granted. I believe progress must respect the bright techno minds of the day but should never result in exclusion, and efficiency should not mean we erase human connection.

As I mentioned in my recent column, education is foundational for our youth as they work toward future success. Postsecondary education in Ontario is essential to strengthening our labour force and driving economic growth, equipping students with the skills, innovation ca-

pacity, and credentials needed to meet evolving industry demands and compete in a global economy.

On Feb. 12, 2026, the Ford government announced updated tuition and Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) framework, saying the changes would “ensure sustainability for institutions while keeping education accessible.” Unfortunately, that is not how I see these changes impacting our young bright minds of this province. This new model has been packaged to sound like an investment in the sector, but many can see it for what it truly is.

At a time when we are already failing our young people, the new OSAP changes and the removal of the tuition cap create yet another barrier, making education more expensive and harder to access. By capping the grant portion of OSAP from 75 per cent to 25 per cent, students will graduate with significantly higher debt, just as they enter an increasingly volatile and rapidly evolving job market. Premier Ford’s remarks suggesting misuse of OSAP funds are insulting to the many students who already struggle with the anxiety of studies and finances.

These changes also coincide with the end of the tuition freeze that has been in place since 2019, allowing institutions to increase tuition by up to two per cent each year. While this may amount to only an estimated $0.18 to $0.47 a day on average, when combined with the OSAP overhaul, the longterm impact on student debt will be substantial.

To be fair, multiple postsecondary institutions noted during prebudget consultations that many are struggling to stay afloat, and lifting the freeze may help keep their doors open. But we must ask, at what cost?

For years, domestic students have been sidelined in favour of higherpaying international students. Now, with new limits on international enrollment, the Ford government expects domestic students to fill the resulting financial gaps. Rather than addressing longstanding concerns about inflated international enrollment long ago, the burden is now being placed directly on our kids here in Ontario. As the University of Ottawa Students’ Union writes, “It’s not the responsibility of students to pay off the governments’ financial mismanagement.”

Given rising tuition fees and the current economic climate in Ontario, one would expect the government to support students in accessing higher education. Instead, changes to the OSAP framework reinforce the view that postsecondary education is being treated more like a business than a public good. These changes were made unilaterally, without a vote or the oversight of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. It is unacceptable that such significant policy decisions were implemented while MPPs were away from Queen’s Park. Although the Ontario Legislature does not reconvene until March 23rd, I assure you that the Opposition will bring this issue to the forefront once the session begins. I will continue to advocate for our young people and fight for a future where quality education remains accessible to everyone.

With labour gaps across virtually every sector in Ontario – from healthcare and skilled trades to agriculture, manufacturing and tech – this is precisely the moment to be investing in young people, not increasing the barriers in front of them. Jeopardizing the future of students jeopardizes the future for us all.

Local woman experiences unrest in Puerto Vallarta

LEAH BAUER

Advocate Contributor

For decades Puerto Vallarta has been at the top of the list for tourist hot-spots in Mexico. It is a common destination for Canadians to visit to get a break from the winter, relax, and experience a bit of Mexico.

However, on the morning of Sunday, Feb. 22nd this tourist hot-spot became a target for cartel violence.

The violence and the fires came as a response to the killing of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho. El Mencho was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). In a shootout between cartel members and Mexican authorities, El Mencho was wounded and died while being airlifted to a medical facility. In the aftermath of his death, cartel members blocked highways, torched cars and city buses, which led to airlines cancelling flights to Puerto Vallarta.

One of our very own Norfolk County residents found herself in the midst of it all. Amy Rose La Prairie, a local yoga instructor, had travelled to Puerto Vallarta alone to attend a wellness retreat. She jetted off to relax and meet some like-minded travellers.

She woke up on Feb. 22nd, the date of her expected flight home, and sat outside

on her balcony for one last morning tea with a fellow retreat attendee. While looking out over the blue waters she began to notice smoke stacks emerging through the ‘Romantic Zone’ of Puerto Vallarta.

“We started noticing, like smoke stacks across the bay. Initially there was one stack

B&B, which was oddly enough run by a fellow Canadian from Manitoba. The host called her and suggested that for her own safety she stayed put at the Air B&B free of charge for a few extra days.

La Prairie described the situation at the nearby resorts as a bit “dystopic” wherein she was able to hear gunshots, and look at the news and understand that death and destruction was happening right in her area, but business continued as usual. Noting the juxtaposition between what was happening outside and how the pop music and entertainment continued like nothing was happening.

She was very impressed by the strength of the Mexican people.

“The Mexican people are incredibly resilient and hardworking!” she said. “They wanted to see Puerto Vallarta back up and running.”

of thick black smoke,” Amy recalled. “We thought ‘oh that's weird.’ And then we saw another one, we're like, ‘what's going on?’”

She quickly packed her things and went to the front desk where workers in the building alerted her of the situation that was unfolding around them. Amy recalled them saying to her, “we don't recommend you leave. We suggest that you should stay on the property, this has never happened here, but we're getting reports that we should just shelter in place.”

Her immediate concern was her flight home that she was supposed to catch that afternoon.

Luckily, La Prairie was staying in an Air

Across Mexico, schools, workplaces, and businesses shut down to allow people to shelter in place. Puerto Vallarta was no different. La Prairie recounts how grocery stores shut down, and as they reopened she described the scene as “like Covid, everyone was lined up outside of the stores and certain items were completely sold out.”

Luckily, La Prairie made it home safely, a little off schedule, but safe nonetheless. Her safe arrival home was celebrated by everyone, especially her beloved dog Koa. She is now getting back to business as usual which means that her Yoga at the Vittoria Community Centre (35 Oakes Blvd, Vittoria) is back on every Monday night at 7 p.m. The Yoga is a slow-flow class, attendees can drop in and payment is pay what you can!

An image taken by fellow retreat attendees shows how cars were lit on fire causing thick black smoke to rise throughout Puerto Vallarta.

(SUBMITTED PHOTO)

City busses were targeted alongside Puerto Vallarta's picturesque coast, sending a clear message to Mexican authorities

Amy Rose, enjoying the view in Puerto Vallarta before cartel violence changed the nature of her travels.

EV transition must respect rural Canadians

Haldimand-Norfolk MP

Leslyn Lewis

When five auto CEOs warned last year that Canada’s electric vehicle mandate could cause serious damage to the industry, it sparked a national debate. But in rural communities like Haldimand-Norfolk, this conversation has

always been about more than industry profits - it’s about independence and practicality.

The federal government had originally planned to require that all new light-duty vehicles sold by 2035 be electric. The goal was to reduce emissions and position Canada as a global EV leader.

Over the past year, I raised concerns in Parliament that a rigid EV mandate would disproportionately impact communities like Haldimand-Norfolk. Under industry and public pressure, the Liberal government repealed the original mandate and moved to a more flexible strategy, at least on paper. That change was necessary, but it is not enough. Rural life operates differently than life in major urban centres. Families here still face higher costs, longer distances, and limited infrastructure. Flexibility must translate into real fairness on the ground.

In Haldimand-Norfolk, we drive long distances for

work, groceries, school, and medical care. Farmers and tradespeople rely on trucks that can haul equipment and withstand long days. Charging stations are still limited in many rural areas. Cold weather affects battery range. And many families simply cannot afford the high upfront cost of new electric vehicles, even with incentives.

Rural Canadians are not opposed to cleaner technology. In fact, no one understands stewardship of the land better than farmers and rural families. But we also value self-reliance, affordability, and common sense.

A national policy must respect regional realities. That means building rural charging infrastructure before enforcing mandates, allowing flexibility where needed, and ensuring that no family or small business is pushed into unaffordable choices.

The path to lower emissions must never come at the expense of rural Canadians.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

There is a pattern worth recognizing in Norfolk County and once you see it you cannot unsee it.

Block the revenue tools. Oppose the growth. Ensure no significant infrastructure funding finds its way home from Queen’s Park. Then, when council has no choice but to raise taxes to cover the compounding costs of deferred maintenance and unrecovered expenses, campaign loudly against the tax increases you engineered. Claim you are fighting for the taxpayer. Return to Queen’s Park. Repeat.

The Municipal Accommodation Tax was the latest tool to fall. A visitor-pay mechanism - legislated, transparent, restricted by provincial law to a specific purposethat would have removed approximately $25 from every household's levy contribution by recovering it from the visitors who created the cost. Not a new charge on residents. A refund of one they are already paying, buried in the levy with no label on it. It was deferred. Under pressure from voices with financial interests in keeping accommodation costs low that were never disclosed in the context of the opposition campaign.

Meanwhile the unrecovered cost stays on the levy. As visitor volume grows in response to the cheap stay signal, it climbs. It compounds with inflation. It lands on the tax bill of every household - directly, and again through every local business that absorbs the increase

by adjusting their rates and passing it through to their customers. The business owner recovers. The resident on a fixed income absorbs it twice with no margin to adjust and nowhere to send it.

Norfolk was always meant to be a balanced community. Retirement character alongside industrial base. Tourism done properly alongside residential growth. Agriculture alongside broadened assessment. Like a sound investment portfolio, each sector absorbs the shock when another softens. That balance was never built. Growth was consistently opposed. Tools were consistently rejected. Water capacity was never secured. The same voices that blocked development for years now point at the resulting tax increases as though someone else caused them.

A community that puts all its eggs in one vision and calls it protecting rural charm will eventually pay the price of that concentration. Norfolk is paying it now - in taxes, in equity, and in the slow visible decline that tells a market everything it needs to know.

Norfolk's bind was not inevitable. It was engineered. And the cost is being paid by the people who can least afford it and had the least say in the decision.

Gary De Bock

Norfolk County

Our plan to protect Ontario is building new pipelines

As Canada stares down economic uncertainty, we’re ready with a plan to protect Ontario. We’re building to bring opportunity, good jobs and growth home to our province.

That’s how we protect Ontario.

T:12.429"

Local businesses see varied impacts from tariffs

LISA TIMPF Advocate Contributor

In a speech in Calgary in 2025, Tiff Macklem, Governor of the Bank of Canada, discussed the ways in which tariffs and economic uncertainty were taking a toll on the Canadian economy. In that speech, he noted potential impacts like reduced spending, reduced sales, increased costs for individuals and businesses, and other factors.

These impacts have trickled down to the local level, rendering the situation for local businesses challenging.

“I don’t believe there is any business untouched by tariffs and economic uncertainty,” says Karen Matthews, Executive Director of the Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce. “I think the biggest challenge I’m hearing from businesses is that there’s not a lot of stability of pricing.”

The current instability illustrates how delicate trade and economic structures are around the world, Matthews says.

“Canada is moving forward with trade talks with other countries… to open up new trade deals to give us more stability, and that’s important. But we still need to trade with the United States.”

On the plus side, she notes, local businesses don’t have to go it alone. Businesses that are part of the local Chamber of Commerce are also represented by the provincial and national Chamber of Commerce organizations, and these organizations have been very active in working with their counterparts in the United States to strive for greater economic stability. Being a part of the Chamber give businesses “a seat at the table,” Matthews says.

With prices going up, “maybe people are tightening their pocketbooks,” Matthews says. “There are only so many dollars to go around.”

The current economic climate has some unexpected twists, Matthews says. For example, “as larger department stores started to close, people were turning more to fast fashion.” This had a trickle-down effect for thrift stores, because fast fashion “is not really what they are looking for. It shows how a change in the economy affects all of us.”

Lisa Santos, owner of Vintage Hair Studio in Simcoe, has seen the impact of reined-in spending.

“People are not spending the way they used to,” she says. “Everything has gone up, and that takes a toll on everyone’s lives.”

Santos notes that while people still use basic services like a hair-

cut, some of the higher-end services are not being purchased. In talking to her connections within the industry, Santos can attest that the phenomenon isn’t unique to Norfolk. “It’s slow for everybody now.”

“Christmas was pretty good,” Santos says, “but we knew we were coming into the slow season. We had a couple of extra months that were a little slower, but we’re trying to manage.”

One way Santos is addressing the situation is by offering discounts. “We have a referral program, we offer 10 per cent off seniors’ haircuts every day, we have discounts on products. If customers have a budget, we try to work with them.”

Tariffs, Santos notes, “made things difficult in terms of orders. We switched to Canadian-manufactured products where possible. We’ve also been shopping local as much as possible. If everybody does a little bit it makes a difference.”

It doesn’t help that businesses were just getting back on a good footing after getting through COVID. On the other hand, Santos says, “COVID taught me to be prepared. It set that precedent for me. Fortunately, we have amazing clients, and a lot of support behind us.”

Karen Kenney, owner of Paulmac’s Pets in Simcoe, notes that the impacts can be broader than we think.

“In the pet industry, we see more of an impact with the health of the Canadian dollar. Meat commodities are traded in American dollars,” so fluctuations in currency rates affect the bottom line.

In Kenney’s case, the economic situation has been more likely to affect peoples’ choice of pet foods, rather than the quantity purchased. One impact of the political situation is that “people are asking for Canadian-made food.” While this tendency isn’t as prevalent as it was when the “fifty-first state” comments first began, she says customers are “more prone to go to a Canadian product.”

Kenny says the rise of online shopping, especially for dog toys, has also impacted her business. Nonetheless, she notes, “Norfolk County is kind of a strange beast. Because it’s such a rural-based community, people tend to be loyal.” In fact, she has found that “Norfolk County is a fiercely loyal community.”

She adds, “I think small communities want to be able to have shopping choices.” In this case, it’s important “to support those shopping choices. If all you shop is big box stores, then one

day that’s all that will be there.” Stores like hers, she says, “offer something more than the product. We offer service, knowledge, and a personal touch.”

While there are some indications people are reining in on purchases due to the economic situation, there is still a pent-up demand for travel, according to Kate Stratford, president of South Coast World Travel. “After the pandemic, there was a huge increase in the travel industry,” she notes.

Carrie Stratford, co-owner of South Coast World Travel, concurs. “It started as a trickle, but once people got their toes in the water,” demand increased. People who used to take one trip a year, now are taking two, while more frequent travelers are even expanding their wish list.

Both Carrie and Kate have seen an increase in “generational travel,” where grandparents travel with their children and grandchildren. Though the uncertainty of the political and economic situation has held some back from travel, it has spurred others on. “People don’t want to miss that opportunity to make memories and have fun with their families,” Carrie says.

Kate notes that cruises continue to be popular, and Europe is “huge” right now. As well, many people are opting for “bucket list” travel to places like Thailand, Africa, and Australia.

South Coast World Travel has also seen increased demand for travel within Canada, with Newfoundland tour packages, cruises departing out of Quebec City, and the Rocky Mountaineer attracting interest.

During the pandemic, a number of travel agencies closed down. “In our industry, we lost almost fifty percent of the brick-and-mortar (operations) and independent contractors,” Kate says. She notes that this may account for some of the up-tick in demand at the remaining agencies. In addition, the pandemic, Kate notes, proved the worth of travel agents in guiding clients through the need to change plans due to changing world conditions.

One side-effect of both the pandemic and the unpredictability of world events is that travelers have shown a greater interest in insurance coverage, including insurance offsetting any requirement to change travel plans due to unexpected events.

Recent world events like violence in Puerto Vallarta and the conflict in Iran has led to challenges and unexpected circumstances.

“Keeping clients informed and

making sure the experience is what they need it to be” is part of the job, Carrie says.

Brenda Forsyth of Nifty Gifty in Waterford has seen an impact from the economic and political situation. “I believe when tariff info was announced people were leery of what is to come and nervous to spend,” she says. “The start to summer was a bit quieter then usual.”

Despite that, Forsyth notes, “I did have a good holiday season.” However, she noticed that “customers were not spending (money) on bigger decor items for themselves, likely needing those funds for their gift purchases or other (needs). Larger decor items that usually sell well each year, did not.”

Since the threats of the 51st state, and the imposition of tariffs on Canada, there has been discussion in the media about people reducing trips to the United States and traveling within Canada. Forsyth has seen first-hand evidence of this trend.

During the summer, some customers “expressed they were vacationing and choosing destinations within Ontario or within Canada where they normally would be crossing the border. I even had a few U.S. visitors that told me where they were from and said ‘don’t hold it against us’.”

The desire to travel more within

Canada means, “I generally see more people come now in a day than I once did, and many from out of the area, making day trips. Many people are expressing to me that they try to support local, keep it Canadian.”

For her part, Forsyth adds, “if I need anything, supplies and such for the shop, I am keeping it strictly Canadian.”

With most businesses seeing some effect from the changing and sometimes unpredictable economic and political climate, Matthews says it’s an important time to think about shopping local. “The local businesses are the ones that support your sports teams, fundraisers, etc. So it’s a good thing to support them now.”

Matthews notes that the Experience Norfolk booklet produced by the Chamber has been helpful in making guests, and local residents, aware of the experiences, eateries, breweries and distilleries, events, and other attractions located here in Norfolk.

The 2026 version of the Experience Norfolk booklet is in production now, and will be available in “about 100 locations throughout Norfolk,” Matthews says. The library, recreation centre, tourist locations, Chamber offices, and a number of shops will carry the booklet, which is expected to come out “around the first week of May.”

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Brenda Forsyth, owner of Nifty Gifty Norfolk in Waterford, has seen first-hand some of the fallout from the broader economic situation.

Female entrepreneurs share advice, experiences

satisfaction.

According to Canadian government websites, close to one fifth of Canada’s small and medium-sized businesses are owned by women.

With the recent observance of International Women’s Day on March 8, the Simcoe Advocate caught up with some local female entrepreneurs to find out about the ups and downs of business ownership, as well as asking what advice they have for women who are thinking about trying their hand at entrepreneurship.

Karen Kenney, owner of the Paulmac’s Pets franchise on the Queensway in Simcoe, had previous business experience before taking on the franchise in October 2011. Though she’d considered a few options for business ownership, one of the appeals of Paulmac’s Pets was the opportunity for family involvement.

“At the time our girls were 10 and seven,” Kenney says. Paulmac’s Pets was a business “the kids could participate in. They worked here till the end of high school.”

The aspects of owning her own business that Kenney enjoys have changed with time. “At the start, the most enjoyable thing was having the kids involved, and more freedom for scheduling. Fifteen years in, it has changed.” Now that things are more settled, Kenney says, it’s the connection with the community that gives her

One challenge the business has faced is managing growth. “In 2019, just before the pandemic, we did an expansion. Doing the renovations was not easy, and throughout we tried to make sure we served our customers the best way we could.” Getting through that process “was a blip in time” but in the end, Kenney says, it made things better.

Kenney’s advice for anyone thinking of owning their own business is to “take a book-keeping course. If you can’t read a balance sheet, you can get upside down very quickly.”

She suggests “taking some kind of accounting or book-keeping course so you have the basics to understand income statements, profit and loss, and cash flow,” adding, “I’ve seen too many franchisees fail” because they didn’t understand those concepts.

Kenney says it’s important to see obstacles, not as a reason to give up, but as motivation. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, so it’s important to focus on taking “one bite of the cookie at a time.”

Wanda Rowe has owned and operated Effective Fitness for 10 years, after working in the fitness and wellness industry for a decade prior to that. Effective Fitness offers personal training, holistic nutrition coaching, holistic peri- and menopause coaching, and fitness instructing. While Rowe is physically located in Jarvis, she

Local News Lives Here

There was a time when small-town newspapers told the stories that mattered most: the people, the milestones, the challenges, and the triumphs of the community.

At Grant Haven Media, we’re proud to carry on that tradition. Our newspapers are built around truly local content. Written for the community, about the community, by the community.

From council decisions to community events, local businesses to local achievements, we believe every town deserves a strong, independent voice.

Restoring Small-Town Journalism, One Community at a Time.

works in both Haldimand and Norfolk counties.

Rowe was prompted to start her own business by the realization that she had more to offer. In addition, she notes, “I wanted something different - different hours, a different environment, and the ability to truly support people in a more holistic way.”

Flexibility with her time, working in spaces that align with her values, and being able to offer “so much more than traditional fitness” are among the aspects Rowe enjoys about owning her own business. She adds, “I love meeting people where they are and supporting the whole person, not just the workout.”

Making the decision to quit her job was the biggest hurdle Rowe faced in starting her business. In the beginning, business grew through word of mouth, but Rowe adds that “as my services expanded, I had to learn an entirely new skill set, navigating social media and online marketing, which was a learning curve but an important one.”

For those thinking about starting their own business, Rowe notes, “if you have that ‘thing’ you love doing and feel called to share with the world, your niche, go for it.”

“It will be scary, and that’s normal,” says Rowe. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There is so much support available locally. I’m especially grateful for communities like Groundswell Coworking, which provide connection, encouragement, and resources.”

“Starting a business isn’t just about what you do, it’s about who you become along the way. Growth happens personally and

professionally, and that journey is just as rewarding as the work itself.”

Julie Ferris built and opened her dog boarding business County Lane Kennel in 2012, and has been operating for 14 years. Located in Forestville, Country Lane Kennel offers dog boarding and doggie day care.

Ferris notes that she has “always had a passion for animals,” dating back to her childhood. Walking with her German Shepherd on the farm, she would sometimes encounter creatures that required aid, and “even back then I would love to take care of them and nurse them back to health, with the help of my mom and dad.”

Ferris worked for more than 24 years as a PSW. When she opted to retire from that line of work, she was able to transfer the knowledge, dedication, and patience learned in the PSW profession to the world of dog care, coming back full circle to her love of animals.

“Meeting people who have the same passion that I have for their pets” is one of Ferris’s favorite things about owning her own business. She adds, “I love helping and working with dogs who come for their first visit being nervous” and enjoys watching those same guests “flourish into a well-socialized dog who has confidence and loves to come back to visit.”

For Ferris, the ability to work from home is a bonus, as is the opportunity to stay involved with family members, since Ferris’s husband and both of her parents lend a helping hand with Country Lane Kennel. One of the biggest business-ownership hurdles Ferris faced is bookkeeping.

LISA TIMPF

Advocate Contributor

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Julie Ferris, owner of Country Lane Kennel, has come full circle with entrepreneurship, returning to her childhood passion for animals.

Female entrepreneurs share advice, experiences

“Making time for paperwork is hard for me, as I prefer to spend my time with the dogs,” she says. “When I started this business, it hadn’t even crossed my mind that there would be so much paperwork - CRA accounts, HST, payroll remittances, payroll, WSIB, keeping track of receipts, and sales.” Administration work like scheduling for staff and scheduling boarders is also needed.

“Follow your heart and believe in your passion” is Ferris’s advice for women who are thinking of starting their own business. She notes that dedication is needed, as owning your business “is not a 9 to 5 job. It occupies a space in your brain 24/7.”

Being ready to make changes and adjust, and recognizing the value of advertising are also important. “Keep your end goal in sight, and realize that there will be many unexpected steps to get there,” Ferris says, but most importantly, don’t be afraid to “go for it.”

The opportunity to work closer to home, and the ability to give back to the community, were among the reasons Lisa Santos opened Vintage Hair Studio in February of 2020. “I was teaching hair styling at a private college in Brantford,” Santos said, which meant a commute from her home in Simcoe. “As a single mom, I wanted to be closer to my kids.”

Business ownership was a logical step for Santos, whose family had owned businesses in the area. But the timing of the opening brought its share of challenges. “Six weeks later, we had to shut down due to COVID,” Santos says.

Being able to mentor staff and co-op students is one of the aspects of business ownership Santos enjoys. “We have a wonderful team,” she adds.

In addition to running the business, Santos continues to work as a hair stylist, and can’t imagine not doing so. “Hair is my passion,” she says, so she enjoys her time behind the chair. “But with the background from teaching, it’s also great that I can help support other women in this industry.”

The major challenge Santos has faced as a business owner was dealing with the COVID situation. “It was the same as everybody else. We had regulations we had to follow, and we did that to a tee. We got air purifiers, worked at sanitizing everything.”

In fact, even after COVID was over, they continued to sanitize to a high level. “That’s important, because we do offer a personal service.”

Her advice for women who are thinking about entrepreneurship is to pay attention to time management. “At the end of the day we are all daughters, mothers, sisters,” says Santos, alluding to the many roles women are called on to play outside the workplace. “You still have to find time for yourself.”

This can be a challenge, particularly in the modern day when a message might come through your website after hours. “You don’t stop working, even when you go home,” Santos says. “It’s important to set boundaries.” Setting up systems that enable your business to run smoothly without needing your direct intervention can be helpful in time management.

One thing COVID taught Santos early on was “as an entrepreneur you have to be prepared for when slow times come. When

you have a business and have a payroll you need to be prepared, as much as possible” because other people are relying on you.

While there are pressures and challenges,

business ownership is “definitely rewarding,” Santos says. “I do feel proud of what I’ve accomplished and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Karen Kenny, owner of Paulmac’s Pets in Simcoe, says basic accounting know-how is crucial for would-be entrepreneurs.

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

For Lisa Santos of Vintage Hair Studio, the opportunity to mentor others is a perk of business ownership.

(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO)

For Wanda Rowe, starting up Effective Fitness meant she had to learn new skill sets.

Cindy Azzopardi from Simcoe Home Hardware and Dave Carpani, Delhi Home Building Centre, participated in the third annual Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show, hosted by the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce.

(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)

Jeff Ingram from Courtland’s Metal Roof Outlet at the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show.

(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)

Liz Bondy (Simcoe) and Nancy Fehr (Tillsonburg) represented My Paint and Décor at the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show in Simcoe.

(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)

Securing our future as an energy superpower

We’re building the first small modular reactors in the G7 and first large scale nuclear facilities in 30 years.

That’s how we protect Ontario.

T:12.429"

Food Cupboard lends helping hand to community

BRENDA MOSER

Advocate Contributor

When I read of the Waterford and District Food Cupboard Annual Meeting for the year ending 2025, I contacted them and was cordially invited to attend. I have featured the Food Cupboard in a previous column, but I was interested to see how things are going for them in these tough times.

The meeting at their Nichol Street location was well attended by their executive - all volunteers - and their reports were very positive. As I browsed their shelves to check out the stock, I was totally impressed by the selection and quantity of food to choose from. Not only do they offer canned, non-perishable items, but dairy products, fresh in-season produce generously donated by locals, personal care items, ‘treats’ and Tim Hortons baked goods weekly.

Their approach is no discrimination for anyone who comes

through their doors. Volunteers are there to help and will ensure that they leave with a well-balanced assortment of groceries that they can select themselves.

The Food Cupboard has been fortunate in that the Waterford and surrounding areas have always been there to donate either through local food drives, in-store grocery drop-off or monetary donations. They are also lucky to have many volunteers who give of their time to stock shelves, collect donations… whatever needs to be done. Always willing to lend a hand!

They realize that harder times are ahead of them but they will endure with the support they get from the community.

“We will be here for those who may need a helping hand,” said Chair and Food Cupboard coordinator Donna Thompson.

She went on to thank the dedicated volunteers, the community, organizations and clubs, churches and food distributers (Foodland) for their continued support.

“Thank you all for your unwavering dedication,” added

Thompson.

Waterford has done them proud. Keep up the good work and thanks again to the wonderful group of volunteers who are there when needed.

“Empathy is a strange and powerful quality, no script to follow, no right or wrong way to do it. We simply all listen, withhold judgment and communicate to our clients. You are not alone, we are here for you. If we can make one person smile or have a laugh, our time is well spent. We can make a difference.”

If you need their services or would like to donate or volunteer, they are located at 61 St. James Street South, Waterford, rear entrance. Look for the red door! They are open Wednesdays from 7-8 pm so feel free to stop in.

A huge thanks has to go out to the people and businesses of Waterford and area that continue to support our local Food Cupboard. It is greatly appreciated!

Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show helps everyone

CHRIS ABBOTT Editor

Saturday, once again, was the busiest day for the three-day Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show hosted by the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce, Feb. 27 to March 1 at the CIBC Aud, Norfolk County Fairgrounds in Simcoe.

“To me, it’s never about the numbers that come through the doors, it’s about the quality of shoppers that come through,” said Karen Matthews, Executive Director of the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce, who did not yet have a final attendance figure on the Sunday afternoon.

“You will hear vendors say, ‘We appreciate that people know they are coming to this home (and lifestyle) show, so it tends to be home owners that need work done.’ People tend to be coming for specific reasons.

“We’re lucky that this is a manageable-size show, so we can

curate what (vendors) come into the show. We’re not just trying to fill spaces, we are able to specifically look for what we think home owners will want. And it sells out every year.”

Some vendors made sales on site, some took orders for the spring/summer.

“It can be a lot of one-stop shopping here,” said Matthews. “You don’t have to make a lot of phone calls because you’re finding 2-3 roofers or 3-4 window people here. You can go talk to everyone and find out what their schedules are like, find out who is available to install one window or a house full of windows or whatever. It saves you a lot of time and energy.”

Local experts on the Home & Lifestyle stage also presented valuable information on Saturday/Sunday.

“Just from looking at the crowds, the most popular one was fruit tree growing – planting fruit trees and how they can produce fruit.”

For Matthews, the show is a success when the vendors are

happy – and they were already seeing it at the show.

“They are already saying ‘I want to come back next year,’ or ‘I need a double booth next year…

(BRENDA MOSER PHOTOS)

Waterford and District Food Cupboard’s Donna Thompson, Doreen McCracken, Gail Nutley, Allan Hayes, and Carrie Hewitson.

Young entrepreneurs Kcie and Klyn Walker, Bunny Pop Shop, were selling their bracelets at the Norfolk Home & Lifestyle Show.

(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)

Norfolk Music Hall of Fame seeks nominations

Nominations are now open for the Norfolk Music Hall of Fame’s second annual induction ceremony being held on Saturday, May 2.

Founder and President Les Anderson said that Norfolk County is very fortunate to have such a rich history in music that has influenced the music industry worldwide.

“Whether it be musicians, writers, or

builders, we have benefited from their creativity as well as providing us with so many highlights over the past number of years,” said Anderson in a media release.

This was evident in the first annual induction ceremony in May 2025 when the Danko brothers, Rick and Terry, were inducted into the Norfolk Music Hall of Fame along with James Atkinson.

Residents of Norfolk County now have the opportunity to nominate someone for consideration to be inducted into the Music Hall. Nominations must be submitted on the nomination form which is available by sending an email to norfolkartscouncil@ bell.net .

Nominations will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026.

Those selected to be inducted into the Norfolk Music Hall of Fame will be announced in early April. The induction ceremony will take place at Holy Trinity Catholic High School on Saturday, May 2, beginning at 7 p.m. Ticket information will be announced soon.

Plank prepares for Easter

2026 meals

A local woman who loves to feed the people, generously donates the fruits of her labour to any and all.

I introduced you to Lana Plank at Christmas 2025 when she lovingly and painstakingly prepared a mouth-watering, delicious Christmas dinner for literally hundreds of people in the Waterford area. With the help of some volunteers and ‘many hands to make light work,’ she didn’t disappoint.

Well, Plank is at it again for Easter 2026 and you are invited to enjoy a free Ham Dinner, with all of the fixings and trimmings, on Friday, April 3rd. The cost? None whatsoever… as always. It is a free community dinner but donations are always welcome. No one will be turned away.

Lana prepares her food at the Waterford United Church and is grateful for the use of

the facility. Local delivery in and around Waterford is not available, so you are invit ed to pick up your food at the church, locat ed at 135 Main Street, Waterford between 2-3:20 p.m.

She will be delivering to homes in Sim coe. Plank added, “I may not have a lo cation to distribute from (in Simcoe) but know that is a pleasure to deliver to you.”

If you would like a mouth-watering Easter meal with all the fixings you need to RSVP to 226-802-1328 by the end of March so Plank will know how much to prepare. “Volunteers are always welcome to lend a helping hand.”

Plank is a special kind of person and so giving in all that she does. She appreciates any and all help she gets and will ensure that everyone who orders ahead will be in for a delicious treat.

Happy Easter to all and a huge thank you to Lana!

BRENDA MOSER Advocate Contributor

Lana Plank is 'at home' in the kitchen.

(BRENDA MOSER PHOTO)

Ottawa offers superb options for food-lovers

OH,PLACESTHE WE'LL GO

By Paul Knowles

Let’s be honest: Ottawa is to the rest of Canada the way a very spoiled child is to the rest of the family. Ottawa gets way more than its share of good stuff, from museums to art galleries to arts venues and more. It’s the nation’s capital, centre of the country, and it shows.

Now, while that may irk taxpayers looking for cross-country fairness, it’s really good news for tourists visiting Ottawa. In truth, this is one of my favourite cities.

I love the art galleries and museums, the intriguing architecture in the federal government district, the walking areas along the river, the history… and most definitely, the food. Ottawa is without question a destination for “foodies”, with a plethora of restaurants offering unique and delicious cuisine.

On our last visit to Ottawa, we

were able to sample two of the best eateries in the city: Gitanes, at 361 Elgin Street, and Arlo Wine & Restaurant, 340 Somerset Street West. Both have been named among Canada’s top ten restaurants. Since we were staying at the downtown Alt Hotel, both were within easy walking distance. The Gitanes experience is defined as “Fine French dining in Ottawa’s Golden Triangle”. There are two themes here: a superb wine cellar, and French cuisine that features Canadian ingredients – a marriage made in foodie heaven.

The two restaurants have one thing in common: absolutely superb service. The staff are welcoming, friendly, and have somehow combined being attentive and unobtrusive at the same time – no mean feat. Our waiter

starters were mainly priced at $23 to $28; the mains ranged from $40 to $50. There is a $105 tasting menu.

The next evening, after we had spent much of the day strolling the inviting streets of Ottawa, we dined at Arlo. Co-owner and Chef is Jamie Stunt; our host, restaurant manager Simon Hodgson, told us that Chef Stunt has “deep roots” in the Ottawa region; his seasonal menu has been described as “playful and refined.”

the beer. Our mains were Schnitzel and Caesar, and Duck Frites. I had finished off the Cantillon Drogon Lambic, and found that a Cotes du Rhone wine went well with duck. Or, with just about anything, for that matter. The starters at Arlo range in price from $24 to $27; the mains, from $40 to $48.

I love the motto on the bottom of the Arlo menu: “be excellent to each other.” Good advice.

started to present the wine list, and then said, “Maybe you’d like to meet the sommelier.” So we did. Sommelier Bernard Joseph was a gold mine of information and advice and eventually delivered to our table a bottle of Chateau Haut-Segottes Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2018. I could pretend to know how special that is, but all I really know is that it was delicious.

And it paired beautifully with our meals. Between us, we enjoyed Steak Frites (a specialty of the house), a moules and sausage appetizer, a lamb saddle and focaccia bread. Dessert was a Basque cheesecake and (unlikely though this sounds), an absolutely delicious foie gras sundae. Every bite demanded that we savour. It was, in short, a beautiful meal, unique and well presented. The

That also describes the restaurant, itself. One description of the place says, “Arlo feels like a dinner party at a stylish friend’s home.” That’s pretty accurate –when we visited, the place was full, and yet – wonder of wonders – not one person was on a cell phone. People were enjoying food, drink and conversation, not necessarily in that order.

Arlo is known for a wine list thar features rare and unique natural wines, so I was looking forward to a glass of something special. But to my surprise, Simon told me that they also feature some special beers from time to time; he had checked my bio, and discovered that I occasionally write about breweries, and so had brought in a bottle of a “Cantillon Drogon Lambic”, a rare Belgian sour beer. I decided to be polite and sample it – and then continued to sample until the 750-mm bottle was empty. Now, that is exceptional service!

For dinner, our starters were a cucumber and melon salad (which was a work of visual art!), and Scallop Tartare, perfect with

Does Ottawa deserve to be listed among the top “foodie” destinations in the country? Without question. And frankly, if you compare prices with some more “run of the mill” restaurants, you’ll find the quality and superb service at eateries like Gitanes and Arlo make for very good value. Our thanks to Sarah and Vlad of Ottawa Tourism who arranged our very tasty visit.One quick recommendation: after dinner in Ottawa, make your way to a restaurant called the Rabbit Hole (and yes, you should eat there on another evening). But tonight, your destination is the “secret” speakeasy called the Jackalope, hidden below the main restaurant. There, the bartender will craft a unique drink matched to your tastes. You have to ask at the door of the Rabbit Hole, and you will be escorted to the speakeasy, if there is room. Tell ‘em Paul sent you.

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.

At Arlo, it's all about food and conversation – no one was on their phone!

The manager at Arlo had brought in a special beer, just for this writer! Gitanes sommelier Bernard Joseph.

Gitanes features French cuisine using local ingredients.

(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)

625 West St., Simcoe (at the corner of Hillcrest Rd.) simcoelighting.ca 519-428-9927

OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM & SATURDAY 9AM-3PM

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

WAMPUS KAT (WINGS)/ST.PATRICK'S DAY PARTY!

Serving from 5:00 p.m (Until Sold Out) Wings available for purchase. Dress up, and stay and have some fun! Dress up, and stay and have some fun! Music by Eight Miles to Dover!

For More Information call, the Legion at 519443-5588 or Check out our website at https:// www.teetervillelegionbranch526.ca.

The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario

FRIDAY FUN NIGHTS - PI NIGHT

6:30 p.m

with ADAM LIEFL on the Café Stage! ADAM LIEFL is helping us celebrate PI DAY (it’s officially March 14) with lots of fruity and creamy choices of our delectable house-baked PIES! Come and celebrate PI and PIE with us!

Riversyde 83 – 83 Sydenham Street in downtown Simcoe

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

PANCAKE & SAUSAGE BREAKFAST

9:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m

Enjoy fluffy buttermilk pancakes, breakfast sausages, and fruit cocktail.

Dine in or take out — gluten-free available.

Pricing: Adults $15 | Children $10

Hosted by the Marburg Community Association. Serving the community since 1863. Proceeds support the operation and maintenance of Marburg Hall.

Marburg Hall, 1345 Lynn Valley Rd (between Cockshutt Rd & Hwy 6)

SUNDAY, MARCH 15

GAME NIGHT

4:00 p.m – 7:00 p.m

For just $5, enjoy a slice of delicious pizza! (Kids 6 and under eat FREE!) Plus, FREE coffee to keep you energized as you play! We’ll

ST. PATRICK’S DAY BINGO NIGHT

Main Games - 7 p.m

Doors open 5:30 p.m - Early Bird 6:30 p.m Presented by ABEL Enterprises. Concession stand run by Simcoe & District Humane Society. In addition to the usual $3000+ in cash prizes with a jackpot of $1000, players will also receive a ticket on the way in for fun draws featuring prizes from local businesses.

If you or your business would like to donate a prize for the fun draws please email abelfundraising@gmail.com

Simcoe Legion, West Street, Simcoe

TUESDAY, MARCH 17

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARTY WITH OLD BARN DOORS

7:00 p.m to 10:00 p.m

Live music with mix of Irish and Canadianacome sing along! $5/cover in the clubroom of the Simcoe Legion www.simcoelegion.ca

Simcoe Legion, 200 West Street, Simcoe PORT DOVER “IRISH SONGS” SINGALONG

7:00 p.m

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style! We’ll sing favourites like: When Irish Eyes are Smiling, My Wild Irish Rose, The Gypsy Rover, Black Velvet Band, Wasn’t That a Party, The Unicorn, and the ultimate Irish ballad, Danny Boy. Wear your green and bring a friend. Call 416-5051658 for more information. $2 donation at door.

Grace United Church | 18 Chapman St. W., Port Dover

FRIDAY, MARCH 20

TRIVIA NIGHT AT RIVERSYDE 83

7:00 p.m

Test your knowledge at a free trivia night at Riversyde 83 on March 20. The event begins at 7 p.m. at 83 Sydenham St., Simcoe. No preregistration is required — participants can come with a team or join one when they arrive.

LEGION CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW

11:00 a.m- 3:00 p.m

Free Admission

Space still available! Want to book a space? To book contact the legion and leave your name and phone number, or pop in during business hours. www.teetervillelegionbranch526.ca.

The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

WINGS & THINGS PUB NIGHT

Starting at 5:00 p.m (Until Sold Out) Music by Sunset DJ & Karaoke. For More Information call, the Legion at 519-443-5588 or Check out our website at https://www. teetervillelegionbranch526.ca.

The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario

SUCCEEDING WITH SHADE IN THE GARDEN

7:00 p.m

Riversyde 83 Foodhub and South Coast Gardens will host a free presentation titled Succeeding With Shade in the Garden on Friday, March 27. Guests can gather at 6:30 p.m., with the presentation running from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The event will take place in the Great Room at Riversyde 83, 83 Sydenham St., Simcoe. Speakers include Kevin Kavanagh, Dylan Cowan and Sherry Shrubb.

Riversyde 83 – 83 Sydenham Street in downtown Simcoe

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

OPEN JAM

Starting at 1:00 p.m

Last Saturday of every month. Everyone is welcome to bring an instrument or just come out and listen to the music. Free event.

The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

EXPERIENCE FANSHAWE AT OPEN HOUSE

All locations are open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m Meet faculty and current students from all areas of Fanshawe Drop-in and ask about your program interests, career options and becoming a Fanshawe student. Hear from college experts on student life, admissions, financial aid, and more! Explore our campuses at London, Woodstock, Simcoe, St. Thomas, Clinton and Tiverton

MONDAY, MARCH 30

BINGO NIGHT

7 p.m

Doors open 5:30 p.m - Early Bird 6:30 p.m Presented by ABEL Enterprises. Concession stand run by Simcoe & District Humane Society.

Simcoe Legion, West Street, Simcoe

SUNDAY, APRIL 12

SIMCOE SING INTO SPRING CONCERT

2 p.m

Sing Intro Spring - Heart N Soul! Fundraising Concert for St. James United Church Outreach Program. Admission is free but monetary donations will be gratefully accepted. Light refreshments served after concert.

St. James United Church, 150 Colborne St.S.

EVERY OTHER FRIDAY

INGERSOLL COUNTRY MUSIC JAMBOREE

1:00 p.m - 4:00 p.m

In 2026 it’s your fix! 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! February 27, March 6 & 20, April 10 & 17, May 1, 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,

Weekend Quiz

By Jake Grant

1. What actor starred in Ace Ventura?

2. What is the capital city of Iran?

3. What does MAID stand for in medical terms?

4. Which Renaissance artist painted 'The School of Athens' in the Vatican?

5. In 'Children of Men', what event has made humanity desperate?

6. The Danube River flows into which sea?

7. Which hormone is produced by the pineal gland and helps regulate sleep cycles?

8. A Phon is a unit of what?

9. What is the highest-rated daytime talk show in American Television history?

10. What country do the Galapagos Islands belong to?

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

Norfolk County is Next Generation 911 community

Residents of Norfolk County now benefit from Next Generation 911 (NG911), a major advancement in emergency communications technology delivered through Norfolk’s fire dispatch provider, St. Catharines Fire Services.

The successful launch of NG911 by St. Catharines Fire Services enhances emergency call handling for the 36 municipalities it serves across Ontario, including Norfolk County. The Ontario government, through the Solicitor General, has provided $4,016,982 in funding to support St. Catharines Fire Services’ transition to NG911. NG911 represents a multi-stage, transformative upgrade to the traditional 911 system. While the process for callers remains the same - dialing 911 in an emergency - the new system introduces several enhancements designed to improve speed, accuracy, and system resilience, including:

• Quickly providing emer-

gency operators with more-accurate data to help determine the caller’s location and phone number.

• Increasing reliability and cyber security, which are key elements of the new system.

• Providing more backup capabilities should a failure occur within the system.

• Support for future features, such as Real-Time Text and live emergency video calls.

Through its partnership with St. Catharines Fire Services, Norfolk residents now benefit from a modernized emergency communications infrastructure designed to strengthen public safety outcomes. The transition to NG911 does not change how residents access emergency services. In an emergency, dial 911 as always. For more information about fire services in Norfolk County visit norfolkcountyfire. ca.

Experts agree winter was colder, snowier

JEFF HELSDON Grant Haven Media

Those who believe the weather this winter was more like winter used to be would be correct.

“It has been colder and snowier than normal, but many would say it’s just a classic Canadian winter. It’s the way winter used to be,” said Doug Gillham, senior meteorologist at Weather Network.

He admitted winters like the present one are less common, but pointed out 2022 was comparable, and last winter was cold, but not for as long. The winters of 2023 and 2024, however, were milder.

“Winters like this have become less common,” Gilham agreed.

January thaws are common, but this year saw the thaw in the second week of January rather than in the middle of a cold spell, followed by consistent cold from Jan. 18 until mid-February, with the exception of temperatures crossing the freezing line on Feb. 10.

Two cold winters after a couple of mild ones spark debate over whether climate change is occurring. Gilham explained warming goal temperatures have moved the “goal posts” where warm winters will be warmer and cold winters not as cold as it once might have been.

“It certainly doesn’t mean you can’t have a classic Canadian winter. It just means they won’t happen as often and be as severe,” he explained.

Environment Canada meteorologist Steven Flisfeder said December was two to three degrees below seasonal medians, as was January. February was colder than normal, but warmer weather at the end of the month pushed it

closer to normal.

Saying he didn’t have great data, Flisfeder said it did show more snow this winter, with areas closer to Lake Erie getting more snowfall.

Another way to look at the data is the number of Cold Weather Alerts issued by Southwestern Public Health. There were six issued from January to March 2025, but 10 were issued in January and February 2026. The threshold for cold weather alerts is -15˚C without windchill, or -20˚C with wind chill.

Examining this year’s weather from a technical perspective, a weak La Nina current in the Pacific Ocean generated a wavier jet stream pattern over North America. Gilham explained this can make southern Ontario winters either warmer or colder. This year, it disrupted the polar vortex, allowing the coldest air in the hemisphere to move over eastern Canada and farther south. Low temperature records were broken all the way down to Cuba.

The situation in western Canada was different.

“At times, the prairies were severely cold, but also had record-breaking warmth,” Gilham said. “They had a temperature roller coaster.”

The south coast of British Columbia didn’t get much of a winter at all.

After the two mild winters in 2023 and 2024, some Southwestern Ontario residents may have had a false complacency that winter isn’t as bad as it used to be, believing they don’t need snow tires anymore, and making other wrong assumptions. Or, likewise, with the last two winters being cold, they may assume cold winters are back to stay. With two cold winters under our belts, Gilham said not to make assumptions about next year. He again emphasized

not to make conclusions about climate change either. “You can’t take one season in your particular area and say it proves or disproves climate change,” he explained. “Globally, it is warmer overall. You have to look at the big picture long term when you’re talking about the state of the global climate.”

MEMORIES AND MILESTONES

Share them with your local community.

Let us help you honour and celebrate every chapter of life –from anniversaries to obituaries, and everything in between. Commemorate the moments that matter in the

Let us help create a meaningful announcement: info@simcoeadvocate.com

found on page 23

What appears overnight in March, makes the roads worse, but somehow means

Potholes

What returns in March, sings loudly at sunrise, and acts like it owns the neighbourhood?

Birds

What appears when the snow melts, sticks to everything, and follows you into the house?

Mud

What arrives every March and tricks people into thinking winter is over?

One warm day

PET OF THE WEEK

TOPAZ

Meet our Pet of the Week:

Topaz is a handsome brown tabby who made himself comfortable on a neighbourhood back porch, happily showing off his beautiful coat and sweet personality. With a purr as big as his heart, he loves curling up on a lap and soaking up attention. He is FIV/FeLV/HW negative, vaccinated to date, microchipped, dewormed, flea treated, and neutered, and is ready to find his forever home. www.simcoedhumane.ca

Word Search

WEIRD THINGS FOUND IN JUNK DRAWERS

Flashlight

Batteries

Screwdriver

Rubberbands

Thumbtacks

Paperclips

Chargers

Extensioncord

Measuringtape

Envelopes

Scissors

Superglue

Coincollection

Flashdrive

Keychains

Lighters

Magnifyingglass

Nailclippers

Pushpins

Binderclips

Tapeholder

Padlocks

Earbuds

Calculator Junk Drawer

Food insecurity on the rise in Haldimand-Norfolk

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

People are going hungry in Ontario’s Garden, but a lack of food is not to blame.

Many residents in Norfolk County - as well as Haldimand and Brant - cannot afford nutritious food, which can have disastrous long-term effects on their health.

A new report from Grand Erie Public Health says one in four households in the region experienced “food insecurity” in 2024.

That means thousands of people in the agriculture-rich rural area do not have enough money to eat healthy.

The rate of food insecurity in Grand Erie has gone up by seven per cent in just two years, according to the health unit.

That is no surprise to Kevin Ryan, chair of the Port Dover and Area Lifeline Food Bank, where new faces come through the door every month.

“The price of food is climbing up there. It makes a big difference,” Ryan said.

The food bank serves more than 30 clients each week, with more than 100 people registered.

Both numbers are climbing, Ryan said.

“It’s getting to the point where even the working poor are coming,” he said. “People who have jobs, but with the price of food, they can’t make ends meet. So to keep the family fed, they’re using the food bank.”

Seniors also account for a growing segment of the food bank’s client base, Ryan added.

By checking prices in 23 grocery stores last spring, the health unit determined an average family of four has to spend $1,200 per month to stock the fridge and pantry with nutritious food.

But high rents and low social-assistance rates leave many residents falling hundreds of dollars short each month. Unable to afford even basic healthy groceries, they are forced to skip meals and head to the food bank.

Health officials say food insecurity is not just about empty stomachs today.

Laura Goyette, a registered dietician with the health unit, told Grand Erie’s health board that not having enough nutritious food leaves residents more susceptible to chronic heart disease and diabetes, mental illnesses like depression, and even premature death.

Children who grow up without enough to eat have a higher likelihood of being depressed or having suicidal thoughts as adults, Goyette added.

Food banks, community gardens and free meal programs can blunt the sharpest hunger pangs, but the health unit wants municipalities to support “income-based solutions” and “advocate for a stronger social safety net” to lift more households out of food insecurity.

Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady has pushed for higher social assistance rates - particularly the Ontario Disability Support Program - to better reflect the rising cost of living.

“In a part of Ontario that produces so much food, it’s ironic we have an increase in food bank use as well,” Brady said in a statement.

Residents can quickly end up in “financial jams,” Brady noted, whether through job loss, medical emergency or marital breakdown.

“Hunger is a challenge that seems to keep growing in the midst of economic uncertainty, rising food prices, tariff woes, high rents,” she said.

Programs to reduce poverty and get more residents affordably housed leave people the financial breathing room to prioritize healthy eating, the health unit said. Boosting wages, implementing a basic-income program and expanding the federal Canada Child Benefit could help, the report said.

In the meantime, Ryan said food banks

can do more with cash donations than food near its expiry date.

“Money is always better,” Ryan said. “Then we can buy what we want.”

- J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.

S'YDORLACINAHCEMSECIVRESB )9152014-824( moc.lacinahcemsydorb.www

S'YDORLACINAHCEMSECIVRESB )9152014-824( moc.lacinahcemsydorb.www

J.P. ANTONACCI

Kevin Ryan, chair of the Port Dover and Area Lifeline Food Bank, says new faces come through the door every month, including seniors and the working poor.

(.P. ANTONACCI PHOTO)

Hundreds of shade trees, fruit trees, apples, pears, peaches, plums, sweet and sour cherries, apricots, nectarines, blueberries, haskapp grapes, raspberries, elderberries etc. Lots of spruce, pine, cedars for windbreak and privacy hedges. Sizes 1-8 ft. in containers ready to go. Flowering shrubs and much more. MonSat 7:00am to 6:00pm Martin's Nursery, 42661 Orangehill Rd Wroxeter, ON N0G 2X0 (1 Conc. North of Wroexter on Belmore Line)

MARCH 26 APRIL 9 & APRIL 23

About

Simcoe Town Centre 150 West Street, Simcoe, ON

Decorate this Easter picture with your favorite colors, then drop it off at: Winner gets an Easter basket full of goodies! The ballot box is located at our security kiosk in the middle of the

Draw Date: Thursday April 2

Colouring Contest Rules:

1. Contest is open to children ages 4-10. Relatives of newspaper employees or contest sponsors are not eligible to win.

2. Contestants may use crayons, markers or coloured pencils to colour the pictures. Adults may assist in completing the contest entry form, but may not assist in coloring.

Winners will be selected by random draw and will be contacted via phone/email.