Norfolk Hericanes
Sunday’s Norfolk HERicanes U18B hockey playdown at Talbot Gardens in Simcoe was a must win hockey game.
“We needed one point to tie and two to secure first place,” said Hericanes U18B coach Mike Wilson.
On the line was a berth in the OWHA provincial championship tournament.
Norfolk took a 2-1 late in the first period on a penalty shot, after a skater had covered the puck in the crease with her hand, and it proved to be the winner against the six-skater Hamilton Hawks.
“That was a tough one, the girl probably didn’t mean to do that,” said Wilson. “But the refs will call that.”
The Hericanes added a second-period goal, then wrapped up a 5-1 victory with a pair late in the third.
The game had originally been scheduled Friday in Hamilton, but that was forfeited because there were no refs. A protest was launched by another South Division team, and the Norfolk-Hamilton game had to be played last-minute in Simcoe.
“A little bit of drama, fortunately it worked out for us.”
The Hericanes had finished third in the OWH South Division regular season standings with a 9-5-8 record behind Oakville (20-2-0) and Cazenovia-Buffalo (15-7-0). But they were undefeated (4-0-2) in the playdowns.
“We’re very proud of that,” Wilson smiled, not CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
Bobbi Ann Brady has been re-elected as an Independent Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Haldi-
On election night, Feb. 27, Brady was asked what was most important in her Haldimand-Norfolk campaign, and she said it was her message to all voters, “Honesty and integrity always matter.”
When votes were tabulated, Brady had almost two thirds of all ballots from the 2025 Haldimand-Norfolk
riding - 33,669 votes in total. Amy Martin, the PC candidate, had 12,949; Vandan Patel, Liberal, 2,918; Erica Englert, NDP, 2,147; Anna Massinen, Green, 821; and Garry Tanchuk, New Blue, 392.
Brady carried the votes at 36 HN
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Brady wins Haldimand Norfolk riding
ballot boxes, which along with advance polls, gave her 63.65 per cent of the valid votes, and one of the highest margins of victory in the province.
The Progressive Conservatives won a third consecutive majority government – the first time in more than 50 years – taking 80 of 124 ridings.
Brady said she and her team were confident from Day 1 of the 2025 campaign, and right out of the gate people were coming forward to support her.
“I said to my campaign team, this is the first campaign that I’ve ever seen – and I’ve run a lot of campaigns –where people were very, very adamant that I knew how they voted, or how they were going to vote. They were very, very strong in their convictions.”
In her opinion, it wasn’t “if” re-elected, it was “when” she was going back to Queen’s Park for a second term.
“I purposely used that verbiage at the (Simcoe) debate. You’ve got to believe that you can win, that you are going to be the winner.”
Brady said she relied on her experience in the provincial arena.
“Knowing how to build a team, knowing how to surround yourself with good people comes from 25 years of me working at the provincial level. And I’m sorry, a few years at the municipal level does not compare to 25 years in the provincial arena.”
Brady said that she had the help of an excellent staff to deliver her campaign, and shared her thanks at 316 Queensway West, Simcoe, after the election.
“Tonight’s speech was really about the team that came together. My team has significantly grown since 2022 with different people, people who have never been involved politically and lots who have been, but my goodness so many newcomers. And people from different stripes, all parties.
“So my focus tonight was how we can all come together in that spirit of collaboration. We can all have different ideas, but we can kind of meet in the middle and get the job done. And, of course, I just wanted to thank everyone. People who went out there in -15 degree weather, and drilled signs into the ground. People who went door knocking, and walked like penguins on ice to knock on doors.
“It’s the most amazing thing to me that these people would actually do that. But they believe so much in me defending democracy, standing up for what we believe in, protecting our rural way of life, that they did those things in -15 degree weather. And to me, that’s just tremendous.”
As an Independent MPP, Brady successfully persuaded her constituents that an Independent does not require a role within a political party.
“In 2022, I really battled that whole ‘we don’t really understand an Independent… we don’t understand what an Independent can do.’ It took so much time to explain it,” said Brady. “The difference this time around, they had seen for two-and-a-half years what an Independent could do, and they told me they liked that. They liked the fact that I could go to Queen’s Park without being under someone’s thumb, without Premier Ford telling me what to do or say.”
Brady stressed ‘honesty and integrity’ would continue in
Haldimand Norfolk.
Many of her campaign events were ‘grassroots,’ she said, including meetings in barns with 50-60 farmers.
“Last night we were at a little café getting together, and that’s what politics looked like when I started in 1999. It wasn’t tightly controlled photo ops where they have the big PC backdrop – that’s not what grassroots politics looks like. THIS is what grassroots politics looks like,” she said, looking around the room.
Former MPP Toby Barrett, who had stepped down in the spring of 2022 after serving the local area for 27 years as a PC, called it a ‘grassroots party of 110,000.’
“That party showed itself strong tonight,” Brady nodded. “If only other Independents would try it. If only we had 15 Independents sitting in the Ontario Legislature. It would be incredible.”
- with files from Chris Abbott
Bobbi Ann Brady poses with some of her supporters after the Feb. 27 election. (CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Brady celebrates win in Haldimand-Norfolk
The candidate who received the most votes in the 2025 provincial election was not a party leader or a high-profile cabinet minister.
That distinction went to Bobbi Ann Brady, Ontario’s only Independent MPP and the talk of Haldimand-Norfolk.
Most political observers and polling websites predicted a tight race in the rural riding on the shores of Lake Erie. Instead, it was a rout.
Brady took home 33,669 votes, or 63.65 per cent of all ballots cast in Haldimand-Norfolk - the fourth-highest vote share of Ontario’s 124 ridings.
She soundly defeated her five challengers, more than doubling her vote total from her first win in 2022 and leaving Progressive Conservative runner-up Amy Martin some 20,700 votes behind.
That was the second-largest margin of victory in the province.
The first woman elected as an Independent in Ontario’s history, Brady was one of only seven candidates in the province to clear the 30,000-vote threshold.
She credited her “monumental victory” to the “courage” of residents willing to vote outside the party system.
“Here we are, ordinary people who have all done the absolute extraordinary. And not only have you done it once, but you’ve now done it twice,” Brady told cheering supporters on election night.
A successful Independent candidate is “really rare” in Ontario, said Shanaya Vanhooren, a PhD candidate who studies provincial politics at Western University and lives in Norfolk.
“And usually when you have someone running as an Independent, it’s because they’ve been pushed out of their party,” Vanhooren said.
Brady’s repeat win was only the third for an Independent candidate in Ontario since 1930. And the last time an Independent was elected without having previously run under
a party banner was in 1905.
“That should be recognized. It says something,” said Dan Nagy, whose former gun store in Simcoe was home to Brady’s campaign office and her victory party.
“It tells people in Toronto you don’t have to follow the status quo,” Nagy said.
Brady, a self-described fiscal conservative, was not un-
BOBBI ANN BRADY HALDIMAND-NORFOLK MPP
I want to thank the 33,669 people in Haldimand-Norfolk who have once again put their trust in me as their representative at Queen’s Park. Haldimand-Norfolk continues to be bold and courageous, and therefore I will continue to be bold and courageous by asking the tough questions on your behalf, and fighting for you, the taxpayer, each day no matter where I go.
Together, we will continue to make differences so badly needed in Ontario. I offer my
and
known to voters prior to first running for office. She spent 23 years as executive assistant and campaign manager for Haldimand-Norfolk’s former Conservative MPP, Toby Barrett, and she was also president of the local riding association.
Barrett tabbed Brady as his successor, but after an ac-
Newly re-elected MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, right, poses for a selfie with supporter Adam Hagen of Norfolk on election night at Brady’s campaign headquarters in Simcoe.
EDITORIAL
Balanced approach to funding recreation investments
DREW HEMSLEY
Chair-Elect Cornerstone Association of REALTORS®
On Tuesday, March 11th, the Norfolk County Council was scheduled to consider a Draft Master Recreation Plan that could significantly impact our communities' future recreation facilities, programs, and services.
The bold report proposes several changes to improve our parks and recreation spaces to benefit our current residents and attract newcomers to Norfolk County. However, as members of the Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® who live and work here, we are deeply concerned about the proposed funding mechanisms, particularly those that could place additional financial burdens on homeowners and potential homebuyers.
One of the most talked-about proposals is decommissioning and repurposing local arenas (Talbot, Langton, Port Dover, and Waterford) to make way for a new quad facility in a central location. Other investments include up-
dating tennis courts, constructing pickleball courts, adding outdoor fitness options in parks, building gravel cycling pathways, and creating new soccer fields.
While many of these investments could enhance the quality of life in our local communities, the question of how to fund them is critical. As the report outlines, potential funding sources include property tax increases, new development charges, a county-wide recreation surcharge, a new 2% housing tax on all new homes, or an additional recreation tax on top of the standard land transfer tax.
The Cornerstone Association of REALTORS® is aware of the affordability challenges many residents and businesses face in Norfolk County. Adding new taxes and fees, particularly on new homes and homeowners, risks further exacerbating these challenges. The cost of living is already high for many families, and these additional burdens could push the dream of homeownership further out of reach for those trying to enter the housing market. New housing taxes would likely have the unintended consequence of stalling housing development and reducing the supply
of homes at a time when housing shortages are already a concern.
Instead of relying on new taxes and fees to fund the plan, there are other ways to fund the recreational upgrades that could help keep Norfolk County affordable. Rather than taxing homeowners and increasing the cost of new housing, we encourage the County to focus on fundraising and public-private partnerships, provincial and federal grants, reasonable user fees, tapping into tourism revenue, and phasing in the plan at a speed that aligns with current budgetary resources.
Ultimately, while we support improving recreational amenities and services in Norfolk County, we must fund projects that minimize financial strain on homeowners and hopeful homeowners alike. In a time when housing affordability is already a significant issue, increasing taxes and fees should not be the solution. Instead, a more balanced approach involving creative funding strategies will ensure that Norfolk County remains a vibrant and affordable place to live, work, and play for years to come.
Much can change, or not, in a month
Haldimand-Norfolk
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It is always incredible what can transpire within a month’s time. Onetwelfth of a year has just passed in the blink of an eye with some significant changes and on one front, no change at all.
Let us start with the latter – on January 28th Premier Doug Ford decided to thrust Ontarians into a winter snap election on February 27th using the excuse he required a clear mandate from the people of Ontario to deal with tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump.
I did not believe that was the reason a month ago, and I maintain my position today that the Premier had a clear mandate with a super majority government not set to expire until June 2026. Ford called the election, I maintain, for two reasons. The first, to beat the federal government to the polls because a change at one level usually results in a change at the other. Secondly, I am certain the Premier was desperate to secure his party another four years in office before the results of the RCMP criminal investigation into the Greenbelt scandal become public.
Now that we have that out of the way, let us look at what changed at the polls – in short, the answer is nothing! The NDP lost one seat but will remain the official opposition once the Legislature resumes; the Liberals gained five seats, returning them to official
party status; the Greens retained two seats and of course, we all know what happened in Haldimand-Norfolk. As for the PCs, they won 80 seats, adding one more than they had before the snap election was called. This bolsters my idea that this snap election was never about obtaining a clear mandate.
Another thing this election will not change is my ability and my will to represent the people of Haldimand-Norfolk in the most honest and genuine way. Thank you to the over 33,000 people across the riding who marched to the polls to protect the independent voice and to also defend democracy. In 2022, our independent campaign won by just over 2,000 votes – in 2025 our independent voice won by over 20,000 votes and represents the highest vote percentage in Ontario. Your courage continues to amaze and inspire me.
I look forward to continuing to represent you all for the next four years. I hope together we can bring back grassroots politics, something that has fallen by the wayside over the past few years as major parties control local functions from downtown Toronto.
One of my first orders of business when I return to Queen’s Park (we are awaiting word on when that might be) is to put rural Ontario and agriculture back on the map. Now, more than
ever, we need a strong voice in agriculture as a trade war ensues.
We know the agriculture industry has weathered many storms, economic threats, and uncertainty. Farmers get up every morning and farm and many farmers I have spoken to over the past few days are taking the wait and see approach with the hopes cooler heads will prevail. But what if they do not?
It is that time of the year when farmers are ordering seed and fertilizer and planning for the planting season and must decide on how many workers they may require. And if these items are not a problem in the coming weeks, as they are produced in Canada, the markets for the end products like wheat and soybeans could be problematic down the road.
A global marketplace means that the trade war is not only about the relationship between Canada and the U.S. anymore but with countries like Brazil, Russia, and China.
Regardless of what happens on the tariffs front, providing stability for our farmers for the good times and bad is paramount. We can delve into what that stability encompasses in a future column. In the meantime, you can send your thoughts to me at babrady-co@ola.org.
- Bobbi Ann Brady is the MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk
Brady celebrates win in Haldimand-Norfolk
rimonious nomination process prompted Brady to run as an independent, she edged out the party’s hand-picked candidate — then-Haldimand mayor Ken Hewitt - by 2,000 votes.
This year, some local Conservatives complained the riding association only sent the call for nominations out to 100 party members and held interviews when two of the four applicants - including former Norfolk County mayor Kristal Chopp - were out of the country.
The opaque nomination process prompted one member of the riding association’s executive committee to quit in protest and endorse Brady. Chopp also became a vocal backer of Brady’s campaign.
Parties that meddle in the nomination process “so their preferred candidate can win” run the risk of angering their erstwhile supporters, Vanhooren said.
“It seems in this case, that’s exactly what happened,” she said, explaining voters were “galvanized (by) the perception that local democracy is being thwarted.”
“That seems to be an underlying theme in the riding - ‘We’re not going to be told who to vote for, or who our candidate is,’” Vanhooren said.
Brady garnered support from across the political spectrum and in every corner of the far-flung riding.
“It was a real blowout, and I don’t think anyone expected it to be,” Vanhooren said.
Thanks to the riding’s highly motivated citizenry, voter turnout hit 54.77 per cent, making it the third-highest tally in Ontario and well ahead of the provincial mark of 45.5 per cent.
Historically, Haldimand-Norfolk sees voter turnout “within a couple percentage points” of the provincial rate, Vanhooren said.
“But then in this election, we see this 10 percentage point gap, which is crazy,” she said of local participation in a rare winter election that elsewhere in Ontario had “so few people paying attention.”
Fighting the party machine
Incumbents typically have a target on their back, but Brady managed to run as a plucky underdog in what she styled as a “David and Goliath” fight against the PC party machine, which launched a full-court press to wrest back the riding.
A plethora of Conservative MPPs visited Haldimand-Norfolk for funding announcements and photo ops with Martin before the election was called, and several high-profile ministers went door-knocking with the mayor.
An attack ad from the Martin campaign questioning Brady’s voting records and conservative bona fides fell flat.
“Even though she’s the incumbent, Brady is able to position herself as an underdog because she’s an independent who’s not being tied to a party,” Vanhooren said.
“She also has this image of being disliked by Doug Ford, and she capitalizes on that.”
The premier taunted Brady during question period last April, telling the rookie MPP she would be out of a job after the next election.
Instead, Brady was elected with a stronger mandate than Ford, who received 59.3 per cent of the vote in his riding of Etobicoke North, which has roughly the same population as Haldimand-Norfolk.
Some disgruntled local Conservatives defected to Team Brady, but many left-leaning residents also checked the box beside her name.
The NDP lost over 4,000 votes this year in Haldimand-Norfolk when compared to 2022, with the Green Party coming up roughly 1,000 votes short of its previous tally.
Some of those voters were enthused by Brady’s advocacy for the riding at Queen’s Park, while others voted strategically to block the PC appointee.
Janet Hough of Caledonia told The Spectator she voted for Brady “to block Ford.”
“Bobbi Ann wouldn’t have been my first choice, after 24 years with Barrett,” said Hough, who would have normally voted NDP “on principle,” but said Ford’s assault on the health-care system motivated her to cast her lot with the Independent.
While Hough doubts Brady can sway provincial decision-making, she enjoys that the rookie MPP “seems to have gotten up Ford’s nose” in the legislature.
The case for Independents
There is a certain freedom in running as an Independent, Vanhooren said. While party-affiliated candidates have more resources and campaign staff, they are also ordered to stick to party messaging.
“Independents don’t have to vote with a party,” Vanhooren said. “They can focus
more on the local issues and raise these issues when they have the opportunity to speak in question period.”
That is good for democracy, says Alex Marland, a political-science professor at Acadia University who studies the role of independents in the Canadian political system.
During a campaign event with Brady in Jarvis called “Democracy in Peril: The Case for Independents,” Marland said the vast majority of candidates run out of a genuine desire to help their communities, but the party system “really constrains their ability to represent Canadians.”
Party staffers keep a close watch on what politicians say and post to social media, making candidates “afraid to do anything,” Marland said.
Spots on the ballot — and in cabinet — go to politicians “who didn’t cause trouble and are not going to rebel,” he added.
Brady agreed that under the party system, candidates have to “check their personality at the door” in service of being a “party messenger.”
“The most beautiful opportunity that the people of Haldimand-Norfolk gave me in 2022 was the ability to go to Queen’s Park and still be Bobbi Ann Brady,” she said at the Jarvis event.
“As a result, you get the most raw, honest reputation that any community in Ontario has.”
Brady said her focus as a political staffer and now as MPP is “doing right” by her constituents, not regurgitating talking points or making “safe” choices with an
eye to the next election.
“You have to have compassion, you have to have empathy, you have to listen to people,” Brady said.
Marland said the party system helps keep ideas and politicians organized, but legislatures also benefit from having independent members who “bring fresh perspectives” and can cross party lines.
“Every legislature needs a Bobbi Ann Brady,” he said.
During the campaign, Martin argued the riding would have a stronger voice, and get more funding, by having an MPP in government.
Brady countered that not only has funding not declined during her time in office, but the government is paying more attention to the riding to woo voters.
She touted her ability to “ask the very tough questions” of government while working with politicians from every party, repeating her mantra that “there is no monopoly on a good idea.”
Ontario’s lone Independent MPP proved her win three years ago was no fluke of circumstance. She struck a hopeful tone on election night, telling her supporters her resounding win represented “the triumph of hope, unity, and the collective power of our great communities.”
“Honesty and integrity always matter,” Brady concluded.
J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
County secures $1.7M grant for Delhi Main Street project
LUKE EDWARDS
Advocate Correspondent
Upgrades to a section of Main Street and Crosier Street in Delhi will be going ahead with the help of some provincial dollars.
Norfolk staff informed councillors at the Feb. 25 council meeting that the municipality was successful in its application for funding through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, and will be receiving nearly $1.7 million to fund the Delhi project, which will see improvements along Main Street and Crosier Street that brings both up to urban standards.
The provincial fund is meant to support projects that will help bring development to
municipalities. Norfolk previously received $16 million through the program’s Housing-Enabling Water Fund stream.
Staff said they chose this particular project for several reasons, mainly surrounding its project readiness and its ability to support approved development in Delhi.
“We thought this probably had the best chance at securing funding because it was supported by our ISMP (integrated sustainable master plan) and our active transportation strategy as well as bordering approximately 400 approved units of draft plans of subdivision,” said senior financial analyst Jared Carter.
Coun. Michael Columbus agreed.
“It will certainly improve the development
in the southwest corner of Delhi,” he said.
To allow the funding to go through, staff sought council’s support to add the project to the approved capital budget. All told the project’s price tag is pegged at just over $3.2 million. The remaining cost will be funded through development charges, though with the current state of the Roads and Related Development Charge Reserve Fund, some of the project may have to be paid for through debt. Regardless, that wouldn’t affect the net levy requirements, the report said, since the debt payments would be paid for by development charges.
Carter said the plan is to get the construction tender out early next year.
Students inspired by Career Coaching presentations
LEAH BAUER
Advocate Correspondent
Holy Trinity High School hosted a Career Coaching event for Grade 9 and 10 students on March 4.
The students had the opportunity to engage in small group sessions that were said to be “engaging and thought-provoking, providing students with an understanding of local in-demand careers.”
There were a variety of impressive and compelling speakers who worked to inform the young students while also providing inspiration as they prepare to start considering potential career paths.
It is one thing to learn about potential career paths from quizzes, or online videos in Careers and Civics class, but it is another and definitely more inspirational thing to learn about the different jobs from people who have first-hand experience.
The presentations and presenters all came from the local area which made the event that much more relevant. It provided students direct access and contact to career opportunities that are available within the community.
Organizer Carla Aitken stated that this “added a layer of meaning and impact that truly resonated with the students.”
The presenters had diverse backgrounds in their expertise and experience, which made for a well-rounded and informative event for the students. There were a number of representatives from manufacturing trade industries including Tiger Cat Industries and Toyotetsu. For those who were not as interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades there were also presenters from different sectors
such as public administration, finance, economic development, and everything else in between. The owner of Joy Bakery and Cafe, Joy E. Allgood, was even in attendance bringing the perspective of a small business owner to the students.
Overall, the event was incredibly beneficial, offering valuable insights and practical advice that will shape the career decisions of the Grade 9 and 10 students at Holy Trinity. It was a day filled with inspiration, guidance, and a real sense of future possibilities.
Staff, students and organizers would like to send their deepest appreciation to all of the presenters who took time out of their busy schedules to come and guide the students as they prepare to make major life decisions.
Mike Columbus, Norfolk County Ward 3 Councillor
Music students hear from presenters at Holy Trinity Catholic High School’s Career Coaching event on March 4. Local
Martin is grateful for support during election campaign
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Amy Martin, the Ontario PC Party candidate in Haldimand Norfolk, said she was both grateful and proud after the Thursday, Feb. 27th Ontario election.
“The results are in and, while they are not what we hoped for, I still stand here completely filled with gratitude and pride,” said Martin in front of a full house of supporters at Capitol 33 in Delhi.
Independent candidate Bobbi Ann Brady won the Haldimand Norfolk riding with 33,669 votes. Martin tallied 12,949 votes; Vandan Patel, Liberal, 2,918; Erica Englert, NDP, 2,147; Anna Massinen, Green, 821; and Garry Tanchuk, New Blue, 392.
“First things first, congratulations are owed to Bobbi Ann Brady in the successful re-election of her campaign here in Haldimand Norfolk,” said Martin.
“And while we may not have won this election, we ran a campaign that mattered. This campaign stood for something and it will be remembered. Over the last month we knocked on over 15,000 doors. We spent time where it mattered most – with the hard-working folks of Haldimand Norfolk, at their doorsteps, listening to them.
“We fought, we showed up, and again, while those results may not have gone our way, I wouldn’t change a single thing. This campaign gave a voice and a vision to a request for a better future for Haldimand Norfolk, and that is admirable at the very least.”
Martin thanked her core campaign team for their dedication, support and grit, and the riding executive for ‘holding the line,’ and holding the association together.
“Because of that, we were able to put up a fight. We stand here today because you were the glue that kept us together.
“To every single volunteer who door knocked, phone called, put out a sign, drivers who drove people to the polls… and so many others, you made our presence felt across this riding.”
It was something to be proud of, said Martin.
“Campaigns take a toll on everyone, and no one knows that better than family members who stand by and watch. My mom started door knocking with me in -20 de-
gree weather, and from there she ran the phones, the finances and she fed the team. My in-laws came by almost every other day with sweets and treats. All three of my siblings have stood by me throughout every single campaign and have always been in my corners. And my husband encouraged me to run.
“While we may not have won, we didn’t go down without a fight. We stayed above board, we put in the work, we held the line on our messaging, and we gave folks a choice at the ballot.”
Martin said that while she respects the decision of the electorate, “We won’t go away. We were born and raised here, we live here, we love it here. We will continue to advocate for Haldimand Norfolk and we will continue to push for progress and progression that we know is possible, and we know that we deserve.”
The Ontario PC party won 80 seats at Queen’s Park, followed by the NDP at 27, the Liberals 14, Green 2, and the Haldimand Norfolk Independent, Bobbi Ann Brady.
“To the team that will form government, congratulations,” said Martin. “We know that you will continue to work hard for all of Ontario, and for the residents of Haldimand Norfolk, and I will be here to support you in any way that I can.
“So tonight, we do not hang our heads or walk away discouraged. We stand proud of the campaign that we ran and the work that we committed. This was an honourable campaign and I’d like to thank each and every one of you for the role that you played. Thank you Haldimand Norfolk, the work continues tomorrow.”
On Feb. 28, Norfolk County announced Martin, who took a voluntary unpaid leave of absence to focus on her campaign, has resumed her full duties as Mayor following the provincial election results.
In a media release, it was stated, “Norfolk County appreciates the support and understanding of its residents during this period and looks forward to continuing its work under Mayor Martin's leadership. Norfolk County also congratulates Bobbi Ann Brady on continuing as our local Member of Provincial Parliament and wishes her success.”
chris@granthaven.com
Weekend Quiz
By June Grant
1. Which country has the highest life expectancy?
2. What is the most common surname in Canada?
3. How many minutes are in a full week?
4. What is the 4th letter of the Greek alphabet?
5. How many dots appear on a pair of dice?
6. What is acrophobia a fear of?
7. December 26 is known by what name in Ireland?
8. Where would you be if you were standing on the Spanish Steps?
9. Which is the only continent with land in all four hemispheres?
10. What is the tallest type of tree?
John B. Lee strives to create melodic poetry
“Easy on the ears and easy to read”
ADVOCATING FOR AUTHORS
By Dick Bourgeois-Doyle
Port Dover’s celebrated poet John B. Lee writes with his ear.
No. He doesn’t stick a pencil in it and turn his head at right angles to the paper. He tests his work against the standard of its sound.
“I always read what I'm writing back to myself out loud,” John says, adding that he is looking for specific, melliferous qualities. “To see if it's euphonious.”
Regarded among Canada’s leading poets, John is a three-time Poet Laureate whose work has garnered many, many prestigious national and international recognitions. These include the People's Poetry Award and the CBC Literary Award, both of which he has won twice.
He says a euphonious quality is the aspiration of modern poetry. It contrasts with the staccato, rhythmic form of what many might consider traditional verse.
While he still appreciates the value of the traditional forms, he strives for works that are both easy on the ears and easy to read. John’s poems are not crafted with meter and rhyming patterns, but rather to flow.
“When it works, you don't stumble when you read it aloud,” he says but adds that good poetry needs more. “(It shows in) the combination of the beauty of the vowels and the euphony of the consonants.”
John calls it “Dictionary Music” because it is melodic and can draw upon the whole lexicon, every word in the English language as well as words that a writer invents or borrows from other languages.
Close to 100 published books carry John B. Lee’s name as an author or editor. Many are, of course, poetry collections but they also comprise works of non-fiction. The former include two recent publications, That’s not You
and A School called Normal. The latter is exemplified by a 2023 biography of controversial War of 1812 figure Joseph Wilcocks.
The recent poetry collections are inspired, in part, by memories of rural schools in the 1950s, high school days, and years in front of classes. With a graduate degree in education and 14 years experience as a teacher, John remains comfortable with students of all ages. He has lectured at universities and colleges in Canada and abroad as well as serving as a Writer-in-Residence and Visiting Professor. While students at this level might appreciate his lessons on the craft of writing, others know the poet for something other.
“When I go into elementary schools or Kindergarten,
I have so much fun,” says the poet and children’s author who plays the guitar, writes songs, and sings.
Although Lee feels we too often underestimate the capacity of younger students, his Wilcocks biography, King Joe, might not fit all elementary school sensibilities. It touches upon grisly elements of Upper Canada history including linkages to the bloody Ancaster Assizes trials that brought hung, drawn, and quartered penalties for condemned traitors. Wilcocks was sentenced in absentia and eventually fell in battle around Fort Erie.
John B. Lee was drawn to this story for two reasons. One was the complex forces that led Wilcocks to change sides and earn the label of traitor. The other was the association with Peacock Point, the location of Lee’s family cottage. The Point’s namesake and his son were both implicated in the treason episode with the younger Peacock facing the agonies of the Assizes.
“Names are like a little thread, you pull it and you see what's behind it,” John says in describing how he became drawn into the Peacock story and then that of Wilcocks.
King Joe is informed by original research and a history lover’s quest for truth. But it also shows the poet’s touch in its vivid description of events and the humanity behind them.
To acquire that poetic skill, John B. Lee says a writer needs to learn the craft through study of the masters. With that, inspiration and creativity can flow. His own early heroes were Dylan Thomas, Irving Layton, and Leonard Cohen.
“If you practice it long enough, and your models are people like Thomas,” he says. “You will recognize someday that you are doing it intuitively and creating that music.”
And at that point, you will be writing with your ear.
- Dick Bourgeois-Doyle
CELEBRATING LOCAL AUTHORS
John B. Lee and his writing group meet at 1 p.m. on the first Thursday each month at the Lynnwood Arts Centre. Anyone is welcomed to attend. Look for his books at Beach Reads Bookshop or the Norfolk County Public Library. For the podcast interview in full, check out https:// doverwrites.blogspot.com
Waterford Branch library prepares for grand reopening
The Norfolk County Public Library has announced its newly renovated Waterford Branch is one step closer to reopening and the Waterford Leaf, NCPL’s temporary location at the Waterford Arena, closed its doors as of Wednesday, March 5.
“We know how important the Waterford Branch is to our community,” said Julie Kent, Norfolk County Public Library CEO in a media release. “This renovation aligns with our strategic plan’s vision to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where everyone can connect, learn, and grow. Our staff continue to work tirelessly to create an inviting, modern, and inspiring space, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back very soon!
Norfolk County Public Library is asking for the community’s cooperation during the transition period. The Waterford Branch remains closed and is currently an ‘ac-
tive construction zone.’ For everyone’s safety, do not visit the grounds or attempt to enter the Waterford Branch until NCPL officially announces that it is safe to do so.
“While we do not have an official reopening date just yet, we are incredibly excited to welcome the community back soon for a grand re-opening gala, anticipated in April! Stay tuned for updates on ncpl.ca and our social media channels as we prepare to unveil a refreshed Branch designed to inspire and serve the Waterford community for years to come."
Additionally, no library materials are to be dropped off, returned, or left at either the Waterford Arena or the Waterford Branch during the construction period. All returns should be made at another Norfolk County Public Library Branch, or patrons can hold on to their items until the Waterford Branch reopens. Late fees incurred
during the closure will be waived within the first week of reopening.
The Norfolk County Public Library team is hard at work behind the scenes, coordinating with movers and staff to transport materials from the Leaf and setting up the newly renovated Waterford Branch with fresh shelving, furniture, technology, and more.
“We know how important the Waterford Branch is to our community,” said Kent. “This renovation aligns with our strategic plan’s vision to create welcoming, inclusive spaces where everyone can connect, learn, and grow. Our staff continue to work tirelessly to create an inviting, modern, and inspiring space, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back very soon!
“Thank you for your patience and support – we can’t wait to celebrate with you!” Kent concluded.
John B. Lee (DICK BOURGEOIS-DOYLE PHOTO)
Offering hope for stray and surrendered cats
Purrfect Companions of Norfolk Cat Rescue and Adoption facility
LISA TIMPF Advocate Contributor
Life hasn’t always been kind to the cats who currently call the Purrfect Companions of Norfolk Cat Rescue and Adoption facility home, but you’d never guess that from taking a first-hand look.
Large habitats, equipped with comfortable beds, line the walls of the main area at the shelter at 19 Brantford Road, near Delhi.
Though the cats are secured in their habitats at night, during daytime hours it’s a different story. Cats who get along with others, and have no underlying health issues that would preclude mingling, wander freely in a large room. Here, they avail themselves of climbing posts, tunnels, and toys. Those who don’t have free run loll contentedly in spacious facilities with their own amenities.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Purrfect Companions with founder and president Brenda Cameron. As we walked through the “general population” area of the shelter, cats peered down curiously from atop the bank of habitats, or reached out an inquisitive paw as we passed. At ground level, the bolder ones strolled over to rub themselves against my leg. Clearly, if you can’t have a home of your own, there are worse places you could be.
As noted on their website, Purrfect Companions is a group of local citizens that have come together to help the many stray cats and kittens in Norfolk. The group is dedicated to finding loving homes for the cats in their care.
But that’s not always possible. Not all cats that come through the doors are adoptable. Some are too feral to adopt out, even after socialization efforts. Senior cats are tough to find new homes for, as are cats with feline leukemia or feline immunodeficiency virus. These cats are still provided a quality of life at the Purrfect Companions facility, with the chronically ill quarantined in their own special areas as needed.
Currently, Purrfect Companions has over 500 cats in its care. Just over 300 of these are in foster homes, while 243 are housed in the shelter. Right now, they aren’t able to accept any cat surrenders, though Cameron is hoping that adoptions will ease some of the congestion.
Those adopting a cat from Purrfect Companions will get an animal that has been spayed and neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, flea-treated, and microchipped.
Adoption fees vary, with price breaks for senior cats or multiple adoptions. In a good month, Cameron notes, they might average one adoption per day, or slightly higher.
Though Purrfect Companions has been registered as a charity since March 3, 2015, Cameron’s cat rescue history goes back another decade, dating back to discovering a litter of kittens near her home and helping them find homes. In the early days, she paid a lot of costs out of her own pocket.
Now, with an organization formed and others to help with the burdens, things are better. Still, the stress of “seeing things nobody should have to see” when it comes to neglect or injury takes its toll. Cameron notes that Purrfect Companions fills a gap in the community, as there are no local municipally-funded animal control services for cats except in the case of risk to the public posed by an aggressive animal. Purrfect Companions does not receive municipal funding, relying on donations to pay the bills.
Fighting back against a tide of surrendered and stray animals, it might be hard to keep the faith. But the numbers support the notion that Purrfect Companions is making a difference. In 2024, Purrfect Companions arranged for 595 cat adoptions. That’s almost 600 cats that could have ended up with a worse fate.
On the flip side of that number, they took in 722 cats in 2024. Cameron admits that in the ideal world, you’d see as many cats
going out the doors as come in. The reality is that the rising costs of pet care are leading more people to surrender their cats to the shelter. This, Cameron notes, is particularly true for cats that fall ill with an expensive-to-treat malady. She’d love to see a low-cost vet clinic in the area for people who have financial issues.
High costs place one more barrier to spaying and neutering, practices which prevent feline population explosions, particularly among stray cats or cats who are allowed outdoor time. Cameron is expecting spring to bring the usual surge in kittens and pregnant females. That’s a concern, because the rescue facility is already bulging at the seams.
Purrfect Companions relies on fundraising and donations. They apply for grants where they can, do publicity events and online auctions, and have fundraising events and a fundraising committee. When unexpected costs crop up, like a recent high vet
bill for a new intake, Cameron gets the word out on the Purrfect Companions’ Facebook page. She’s been astounded by the generosity from the community in support of the organization, for which she is deeply appreciative.
The facility is run with the aid of volunteers. Helpers willing to work cleaning shifts, which take place in mornings and evenings, are desperately needed. Purrfect Companions could also use more drivers to chauffeur cats to vet appointments. Volunteer application forms are available on the Purrfect Companions website, as is information about adoptions and fostering.
Like many local volunteer organizations, Purrfect Companions operates quietly in the background, fulfilling a compassionate mission by improving the quality of life for Norfolk’s felines. Seeing the comfort with which the feline residents loll on their bedding, one can’t help but think the effort is appreciated.
While some of the cats currently at the Purrfect Companions shelter prefer solo accommodations, others like to cuddle with a pal.
(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO)
Brenda Cameron, founder and president of Purrfect Companions of Norfolk Cat Rescue and Adoption, cuddles with one of the 243 cats currently at the shelter.
(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO)
A cat-themed mural graces one of the outside walls of the Purrfect Companions of Norfolk facility near Delhi.
(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO)
Annual Norfolk Musical Arts Festival senior competition
On Thursday, Feb. 27, 100 parents, friends, music teachers, guests, adjudicators, festival board members and Rotary Club members attended the Norfolk Musical Arts Festival’s best four musicians’ performances of the instrumental arts in memory of Dr. Peter F. Barrett at St. James United Church in Simcoe.
The performers, chosen from Feb. 24-26, included piano players from First Baptist Church candidates selected by piano adjudicator Amber Morphy, from 82 piano musician attendees that impressed the large audience with their proficiency and preparedness. All 82 piano attendees were assessed individually regarding their work by Morphy.
The piano winners were: Phuoc Lam Dao, Fantasia quasi-Sonata by Franz Liszt; Hannah Martin, Wedding Day at Drolshagen by Edvard Greig; Laura Nyburg, I Leap through the Sky with Stars by Alexina Louie; and Sadiha Sanjida, L'Egyptienne by Jean-Philippe Rameau.
The five best vocal arts winners, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Simcoe, in English Speech Arts were chosen from their Colborne Village United Church venue on Wednesday, Feb. 26, selected by English Speech Arts adjudicator Patti Townsend.
The English speech arts winners were: Kiana Littlemore, Marriage is an Economic Proposition by Greta Gerwig; Maggie-Dylan Norton-Shebib, A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Act 1, Scene 1 by William Shakespeare; and Oli-
ver Tilson, Dear Evan Hansen by Steven Levenson.
The vocal arts winners were: Narissa D’Agostino, She Used to be Mine by Sarah Bareilles; Jessica Kennedy, “In My Deams” from Anastasia by Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty.
Andy Blackwood, Chair of the 39th Annual Norfolk Musical Arts Festival, commented that this year’s affair had grown by 50 more participants (to about 1,050 total), or five per cent more new total performers from last year. During the COVID epidemic, participation had become smaller but there has been a good return, or improvement in the last year, of performers and public attendance which makes the music festival much more attractive to the musicians and the public.
DOUG GOODHUE
The choir from James Hillier School at the Norfolk Musical Arts Festival.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Thursday, Feb. 27 was the festival's senior competition including piano, vocal and speech arts. Participants included participants, back row, from left Hannah Martin (piano), Sadiha Sanjida (piano), Matthew Dao (piano), Oliver Tilson (English speech arts); and front row, from left, Nerissa D'Agostino (vocal), Jessica Kennedy (vocal), Kiana Littlemore (English speech arts), Maggie-Dylan Norton-Shebib (English speech arts) and Laura Nyburg (piano).
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Christopher Edwards, Norfolk Musical Arts Festival board member and presenter of the Instrumental Arts award, on the left, with Laura Nyburg.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Country Home Candle – local and proud
The sign outside Country Home Candle says a lot about the business. Shop Local.
When Nicole and Shaun D’Hulster purchased Country Home Candle from Karen and Peter Northgraves in 2021, they had no prior plans to be candle makers.
“We drove by, saw the for sale sign, and kind of half-jokingly said, ‘let’s go check it out.’ We put an offer on it… and here we are.”
They took a one-week vacation and Peter gave them a rundown on how everything worked.
“He (Peter) left the door open for questions and anything we needed,” said Nicole.
“They didn’t leave us high and dry,” said Shannon VanDeByl, Nicole’s long-time friend who joined the Country Home Candle team in a multi-role capacity.
“He’s always there if we need him,” said Nicole.
“And still is today,” Shaun nodded.
“I think they liked that it was still going to be a family-run, family-oriented business,” said Shannon. “The same values – you were going to continue their legacy.”
“We didn’t have to touch their formulas, he had it nailed down for 30 years (1991-2021),” said Nicole.
There have been some tweaks, however, here and there. Last January, they launched air fresheners. And they try to come up with a new candle fragrance or product, usually twice a year, spring/summer and fall/winter.
Twenty-four new air freshener fragrances were introduced, all of which are available at their retail location on Middleton Church Road (at the corner of Hwy 3 between Courtland and Delhi), through their online store, or a vast coast-to-coast network of retail partners who sell Country Home Candle products in their stores.
“It’s never an easy decision,” said Nicole. “We do try to base some of our decisions off what our customers
are asking for. We also look at what’s trending, fragrances and colours.”
“We’re very passionate and we’ve been supporting Shop Local and Made in Canada before it became trendy a month ago,” Shannon noted.
“And we’re pretty passionate about our long-time customers.”
They have a small but mighty staff of six, including full and part-time, and their products are made at their Norfolk County site.
Every year they try to match the No. 1 star, Grandma’s Kitchen, an all-time legend at Country Home Candle, both in candles and now air fresheners, too.
“It’s a fragrance that I think Peter started from Day 1 and it’s the top seller, by far,” said Shaun. “So, we are always trying to grab that next Grandma’s Kitchen, get to that level.
Peter nailed it when he brought that fragrance out.”
The exact recipe of their flagship is closely guarded, but it has a ‘baking
fragrance,’ said Shaun. “It’s basically a mixture of fragrances.”
Last spring they launched Lavender Sandalwood, which in one year has become their second-best seller, even topping favourites like Apple Jack and Maple Syrup.
“It’s climbing, but it will never touch Grandma’s Kitchen,” Shaun laughed.
“It’s been around for 30 years, it’s the comfort candle,” said Nicole.
Purchased during the pandemic, there were some high highs for the growing company, said VanDeByl, and some low lows early on, including supply chain challenges they faced and overcame.
“But we get through,” said Shaun. “What is Nicole’s saying?” smiled Shannon.
“It’ll all work out,” said Nicole. “That’s my famous quote. And it does, it always works out. We always get it done.”
Shaun and Nicole D’Hulster have owned and operated Country Home Candle, west of Delhi, since 2021.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
‘No looking back’
LISA TIMPF Advocate Contributor
A number of Norfolk businesses are owned and operated by female entrepreneurs.
In honour of International Women’s Day, held March 8, the Simcoe Advocate contacted a few of them to talk about their businesses, their biggest challenges, and advice for those who aspire to follow in their footsteps.
Speech Hens, which has been operating at their Argyle Street facility in Simcoe for five-and-a-half years, is coowned by Laura Downey and Marianne Ward. The company specializes in speech therapy, literacy, and a range of other services for all age groups, including adults.
Downey and Ward started the business to bridge a gap in the community, as there were no other private services of this sort in the area.
“We’ve had a wait list since the day we opened,” Ward says.
One of the features both Ward and Downey like about owning their own business is the ability to customize their programs to best meet the needs of the client.
Their road hasn’t been without challenges.
“We opened our doors six months before the pandemic,” Downey says. “We had to switch to online services. Then when restrictions were lifted, we had to use masks, visors, and personal protective equipment.”
Ward and Downey also note that recruitment is another issue.
“There’s a shortage of workers in this field in rural areas,” Ward says. “It’s one of our biggest hurdles.”
To combat this problem, Speech Hens has done ad campaigns to recruit workers.
“We’ve tried to play the long game,” says Downey. “We take on co-op students, volunteers, and placements from universities.”
When it comes to advice for female entrepreneurs, Downey suggests that it’s important to build connections.
“There are lots of free resources out there that we didn’t necessarily know about.”
Ward agrees that networking is important.
“Meeting people face to face, in female entrepreneur
for Norfolk female entrepreneurs
groups, you can hear about opportunities like grants and funding resources. Take any opportunity to get out there rubbing shoulders with other entrepreneurs.”
***
Ashley Ferrell, owner of Polished Paws Dog Grooming, came by her profession naturally.
“My mom is a dog groomer,” Ferrell says. “I’ve always been an animal lover, and from a young age I was around her business. I got to witness the joy of working with animals from a young age.”
Polished Paws is located just outside of Langton, and has been in operation for about a year-and-a-half. Asked what she liked most about owning her own business, Ferrell noted that “the opportunity to feel proud about what I do,” is an important factor. “It’s a cliché, but it’s also nice to make my own schedule.”
She also feels good about the level of trust owners, and their pets, place in her.
“I have a lot of dogs that come in that are nervous, and it feels good to have them trust me.”
Ferrell says her biggest hurdle was taking the first step. She had to accept that, “I was going to be uncomfortable for a little while. I had to build the courage to take the leap and go all-in.”
Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is “Don’t be afraid to start. Now that I’m comfortable with everything it’s the best thing I’ve ever done. Give yourself a good plan and mentorship and don’t be afraid to go for it.”
Speech Hens owners Laura Downey (centre) and Marianne Ward (to Downey’s right) stand with staff members in front of their Argyle Street, Simcoe facility. Downey and Ward founded Speech Hens to address a gap in the community.
(HAMILTON HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO)
Ashley Ferrell, who operates Polished Paws Dog Grooming, comes by her profession honestly. A long-time animal lover, she is shown here with her dogs Vinny (left) and Paisley.
Sandra Aultman operates Bee at Home, which offers personal services for seniors including home organization, meal preparation, laundry, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, errand running, and other day-to-day tasks. She customizes her offerings to the client’s personal preferences and needs.
Aultman worked in roles managing clinics and businesses for other people, with long hours, lots of responsibility, and little chance of advancement.
“I wanted to be more fulfilled with what I did all day,” Aultman says. “If I was tired, I wanted it to be from doing something useful for people, where I could see I was helping them.”
She decided to start her own personal services business, Bee at Home, in 2023 in the Ottawa area where she was living at the time.
“My clients have told me that I make a difference in their lives, which is most fulfilling. Providing care to seniors in their homes, making them more comfortable, and bringing peace of mind to their families is also fulfilling,” Aultman says. “Knowing you’re doing what you want to do is exceptionally satisfying. It’s freeing not to have the ‘Sunday blues,’ as one friend says.”
A few months ago, Aultman relocated to Norfolk County. She had established a solid client base in the Ottawa area, and reached the point where she was turning people away. Now, she’s faced with the challenge of building a new clientele locally. However, she’s firm in her belief that the service she offers is important for both clients and their families.
Aultman’s advice to female entrepreneurs: Give it a shot.
“It’s always worth a try. You never know when you will bring joy to clients and yourself.”
Nifty Gifty Norfolk started up in October 2016. The store, located on Alice Street in Waterford, is a curated artisan shop that offers home décor and a wide variety of gifts, all handmade by local makers.
Nifty Gifty’s current owner, Brenda Forsyth, started out as an employee. The shop was initially opened by Robin Reitz of Ritzy Cakes, also located on Alice Street. Reitz, Forsyth notes, “saw a need for local artisans to have a venue to showcase their handmade creations.”
Reitz hired Forsyth to run the store.
“It was a dream job, as I really enjoy retail, working with the public, and meeting so many creative people,” says Forsyth. Four years in, she was given the opportunity to take over Nifty Gifty.
“It was a fairy easy decision to make,” Forsyth says, noting that she “loved the atmosphere.”
“I enjoy coming in to work each day. I refer to the shop as my home away from home.”
Personal satisfaction is a big motivator.
“The more effort I put into the business, the more successful I will be. I enjoy being creative and changing things along the way to better suit the business.”
The store also supports other female entrepreneurs.
“Several artisans within this shop are women running their own individual small businesses,” Forsyth says.
Despite the positives, it hasn’t always been easy.
“I took the store over during COVID times,” Forsyth says. Dealing with restrictions on being open and closed was a challenge. But encouraging people to shop local and support their neighbours gained some traction.
Her advice for female entrepreneurs is multi-pronged.
“Research the costs associated with your specific business,” Forsyth advises. “Prioritize time management, embrace challenges, and maintain a confident mindset.” But with all that said, it’s also important to “balance work and personal life.”
Brenda Forsyth, owner of Nifty Gifty Norfolk in Waterford, stands in front of the store, which at the time was decorated for Pumpkinfest 2024.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Sandra Aultman of Bee at Home offers personal services for seniors. Having relocated from the Ottawa area, Aultman is currently trying to build a new client base in Norfolk County.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Norfolk Hericanes U18B charge into provincials
ing the top two South teams in playdowns - Norfolk and Stoney Creek - advance to U18B provincials. “The girls did well.”
The HERicanes organization will be sending four or their five B/BB teams to the April 11-13 provincial tournament in the GTA area, including the 18BB, 15B and Senior teams.
“That’s a really good showing, outstanding,” said Wilson. “It’s great, especially for a small centre. We go to a lot of centres like Stoney Creek, St. Catharines, Oakville, and they have A, AA, BB… they’ve got hundreds of girls that try out. We have ‘who shows up.’”
It will be an exciting tournament, he said.
“Two of our girls have never been to provincials, so this will be a great chance for them to play for a championship in their final U18 year. One has been a Hericane pretty well all the way through.
“I’d like to think our chance is as good as anybody… you had to win your way there. We have a good, competitive team. There should be some good teams there, so it all depends if you show up and play your game. We just have to play our game plan.
The girls are going to give it all they can, try their best, try to make Norfolk proud.
“We’re proud of everyone here,” Wilson concluded, “and we’re excited for the challenge.”
chris@granthaven.com
The Norfolk HERicanes U18 B girls qualified for the 2025 OWHA provincial tournament, April 11-13 in the Toronto area, with a 5-1 must-win against Hamilton in Simcoe on Sunday.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Vintage jacket donation sparks trip down memory lane
When Nancy Hewitson, owner of The Family Closet, a second-hand store in Delhi, reached out to the Norfolk County Sports Hall of Recognition with an offer, she started a chain of events that ended with a reunion of sorts.
Among the donations dropped off at The Family Closet was a brown-and-white jacket with sports crests sewn on it. The crests suggested that the one-time owner had been a woman who was active in athletics in the 1950s. One of the crests was for “WOSSA A District Champs SHS Basketball 1953-54,” while another said “Simcoe Girls Basketball League 1956-57.” Crests from other sports achievements were also sewn onto the jacket.
Hewitson reached out to the Sports Hall to offer the jacket, free of charge. It was an offer the Hall gladly took up, with the idea of using the jacket in a display. But first, they had to learn more about the jacket’s background.
The “SHS” on the crest suggested that the one-time owner had attended Simcoe High School, as it was then known. The No. 6 sewn on the jacket provided a further clue. In-
formation collected by Sports Hall Board members suggested that the jacket had once been owned by the late Merilyn Fletcher (Merilyn Ward, at the time she attended SHS).
But the story doesn’t end there.
With an assist from individuals at the long-term care home where Merilyn had resided, Board members were able to get in touch with some of Merilyn’s relatives. Since it was clear that the jacket had sentimental value for family members, the Sports Hall members decided to pass it on to them.
The jacket got a chance to revisit the scene of past triumphs, with Sports Hall Board members Gord Rollo and Jean Montgomery posing for a photo with Fletcher’s son Ward and granddaughter Tasha in front of a display case holding pennants and photos from Simcoe’s victorious high school teams.
Ward, Tasha, and Jean, with the jacket in tow, also visited the Sports Hall inductee displays, which included a photo of the 1953 Simcoe Stars baseball team. The 1953 Simcoe Stars, who won the 1953 Ontario Women’s Softball Union’s Intermediate AA title, were inducted into the Sports Hall in 1998. Merilyn, an accomplished athlete, was a member of the 1953 Stars team.
Ultimately, Fletcher’s family decided to offer the jacket to Simcoe Composite School for a display. Though the Sports Hall didn’t end up using the jacket in their own display area, there’s still plenty to look at in the Hall’s physical location on the pool deck of the Simcoe Recreation Centre. In addition to plaques celebrating past inductees, the area has displays featuring the Class of 2022 and 2023 Sports Hall inductees. Former Calgary Stampeder Shane Bergman’s jersey, game footballs, and other artifacts are available for viewing, as well as numerous baseball and hockey mementos celebrating the accomplishments dual-sport athlete Barry Boughner. Displays highlighting the achievements of Shirley Shaw, Special Olympics organizer and long-time coach of the Simcoe Seals, and the late Paul Smithson, a standout curler who also contributed countless volunteer hours with the Simcoe Curling Club, are also located on the pool viewing level.
Hericanes U15B girls qualify for provincials
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
A 5-1 win Sunday has lifted the Norfolk HERicanes U15B girls into the OWHA provincial hockey tournament.
“That punches our ticket to the provincials,” said Norfolk U15B girls hockey coach Bernie Gillis after a convincing OWHA South Division playdown victory against the visiting Hamilton Hawks, noting the Hericanes needed to win their last two round-robin playdown games to qualify.
The Hericanes defeated Niagara Falls 5-1 Saturday in Port Dover. After trailing 1-0 early, Norfolk turned it around and started playing ‘Hericanes hockey’ in the second and third periods, said Gillis, pressuring the puck, and playing a little more physical.
“It allowed them to get back into their game mode and we just over-pressured (Niagara Falls) for the last two periods.”
The Hericanes’ offence was on fire to start the first period Sunday afternoon at Talbot Gardens, scoring four goals in the first five minutes en route to a 5-1 win over Hamilton.
“They have been playing hard all year,” said Gillis, praising the U15 Hericanes. “We made promises at the beginning of the season that we would practice the way we play, which has really helped. When they get into game mode, they’ve been used to it all year long because they practice that way. They do everything 100 per cent and it allows them to play a full 32 minutes of hockey, as opposed to 10-15 minutes here and there.”
During pre-season dryland training and team bonding, the team had talked about
their goals for the 2024-25 season. The majority of them wanted to play a physical game of hockey, win more games than they did in 2023-24, and qualify for the provincials.
“So this was their goal all year long,” said Gillis, “to make it to this level.”
The OWHA provincial tournament, for all levels, is April 11-13.
“It’s based pretty much through all the GTA, so some of our (Hericanes) teams will be playing in Markham, Mississauga, Brampton… it’s all over the place.”
Also qualifying in their respective divisions were the Hericanes’ U18BB, U15B and Senior teams.
“We’ve told the girls from Day 1 that they are one of the best teams in Ontario. They just have to have that mindset. Expectations for provincials? In all honesty, if they compete
the way they have… win, lose or draw, I’m a happy coach.”
Gillis noted the U15B team is young – only six of their 17 players are second year.
Making it to provincials was the expectation – anything beyond this point, at the tournament, is exceeding that.
“Whatever they do from here on out is just icing on the cake.”
The Hericanes U15B girls reached the finals of the 43rd Annual Walter Gretzky Tournament, hosted by the Brantford Girls Hockey Association Feb. 20-23, reaching their division finals against Chatham-Kent.
“Every tournament we’ve been in, we’ve done really well – finals, semifinals – so we’ve seen some of the better teams out there, and we hold our own against them.”
chris@granthaven.com
A vintage sports jacket was recently reunited with family members. The jacket belonged to Merilyn Fletcher (then Merilyn Ward), who was a member of the Simcoe High School women’s basketball team which won the WOSSA A title in the 195354 season. Posing with the jacket in front of a trophy case at Simcoe Composite School are from left Gord Rollo and Jean Montgomery, members of the Norfolk County Sports Hall of Recognition’s Board, and Merilyn’s son Ward and granddaughter Tasha.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
LISA TIMPF Advocate Contributor
A vintage sports jacket once owned by Merilyn Fletcher (nee Marilyn Ward) was recently reunited with family members. Pointing to a plaque commemorating the 1953 Simcoe Stars women’s provincial championship softball team, which Merilyn was also a member of, is Merilyn’s son Ward (left side of photo). Also in the photo are Merilyn’s granddaughter Tasha (centre) and Norfolk County Sports Hall of Recognition cochair Jean Montgomery (right).
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Navigating measles outbreak, vaccine hesitancy
J.P. ANTONACCI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Norfolk County and West Texas are more than 2,300 kilometres apart, but they have a common problem.
Both rural communities are grappling with measles outbreaks predominantly infecting unvaccinated children within religious groups that are historically mistrustful of public health.
The outbreak in Texas reached 159 cases as of Tuesday and claimed the life of a schoolaged child late last month.
In Norfolk, 79 people have contracted measles since the first case was announced Jan. 10. Some children have been hospitalized.
Health officials in Texas say the virus is largely infecting children in rural Mennonite communities with low vaccination rates. A history of persecution by the state left more traditionally conservative Mennonites mistrustful of government, including health authorities.
While Norfolk officials have not identified Mennonite communities by name, the local health unit, Grand Erie Public Health, has five private religious schools, three church-affiliated youth clubs and a church in Courtland on a list of potential exposure sites.
The church and most of the schools are in western Norfolk and cater to Old Colony or Old Order Mennonites - colloquially known as Mexican Mennonites because their Low German-speaking members moved north to Canada from Mexico in the 1950s.
Dr. Malcolm Lock alluded to vaccine hesitancy in that part of the county during a media briefing last month.
“There are communities down there that don’t really vaccinate their children as well as we would like,” said Lock, who was Grand Erie’s interim medical officer of health until his death on Feb. 25.
“I think a lot of this depends upon their belief system and the system that they live in,” Lock added.
Many of the religious schools with confirmed measles cases border Southwestern Public Health, which is dealing with its own outbreak, exacerbated by Norfolk residents working, studying, attending church and seeking medical care in Oxford County.
“Measles doesn’t respect borders or boundaries, and we have significant mobility between our regions,” Dr. Ninh Tran, Southwestern’s medical officer of health, told reporters last month.
That reality was illustrated in January when two Norfolk residents later confirmed to have measles went to a sports tournament in Newmarket while infectious, leading to exposure warnings for an arena and hotel in that city.
On Thursday, Tran said the outbreaks in Grand Erie and Southwestern are “directly connected” to measles cases in other regions, with possible links to exposures in Windsor-Essex and Niagara.
Love thy neighbour
Virtually all major Christian denominations - including most Mennonites - have no issue with their members being vaccinated.
But there is a stubborn strain of vaccine hesitancy among some conservative groups whose believers eschew medical science altogether.
“(Vaccine hesitancy) is not a general phenomenon in Christian churches, nor even within certain segments of Christianity,” said Luke Janssen, a professor emeritus in the department of medicine at McMaster University
Dr. Malcolm Lock died Feb. 25 while serving as Grand Erie’s interim medical officer of health. Lock spent his final months in public health managing a measles outbreak in Norfolk County that is predominantly affecting unvaccinated children.
and host of the podcast “Recovering Evangelicals,” which explores modern issues like vaccination through a Christian perspective.
“It’s not a policy that any given denomination would have,” said Janssen. “If anything, it comes from the bottom up. It’s a grassroots thing rather than a top-down thing.”
Grassroots opposition to vaccination is more common in member-led Protestant churches which lack the centralized authority of the Roman Catholic Church, whose adherents look to the Vatican for direction, Janssen explained.
Despite reading his Bible cover to cover while completing a master’s degree in theology, Janssen says he has not found a scriptural justification for refusing vaccination.
“I’m quite familiar, and I can’t think of a verse that I could bend to say ‘this is why we don’t take vaccines,’” he said.
There is a good reason for that, said Tamille Richardson, associate pastor at Evergreen Heights Christian Fellowship, a Mennonite Brethren church in Simcoe.
“Vaccines didn’t exist when scripture was written. So whenever a Christian, personally or as a church, is discerning how do we understand this, there’s always a step of interpretation.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic - when some believers leery of vaccines looked to religious leaders for guidance - Mennonite Church Canada published an open letter saying nothing in the Bible or church teachings could support their members refusing to be vaccinated on religious grounds.
“The command to love God and love our neighbour is paramount. Vaccinations allow us to live out this command,” church leaders wrote, noting vaccination helps protect society’s vulnerable.
Richardson said most members of her church turn to doctors and public health experts rather than clergy for advice on vaccination, an approach she encourages.
“But there are people within our church who would feel convicted not to receive vaccines, and our goal is to be a community that makes space for everyone,” she said.
Despite there being no formal interdiction from the church against vaccination, Mennonite communities with an arm’s-length relationship with public health authorities are less likely to be fully vaccinated against childhood diseases.
Other Christians hesitate to get immunized because some common vaccines - including chickenpox, hepatitis A and the rubella por-
tion of the MMR vaccine - contain live viruses grown in cells that are descended from the cells of fetuses aborted in the 1960s.
The MMR vaccine does not contain any parts of the fetus, but the virus contained in the vaccine is grown in cells that have replicated from the original fetal cells used decades ago, with each new generation of cells frozen until needed.
The Catholic Church and other major religious organizations have studied this process and deemed it acceptable for believers to receive vaccines containing viruses grown in this manner. But Janssen has spoken with Evangelical Christians who were “absolutely opposed to the COVID vaccine” due to the influence of the Christian right in the United States.
“It was a Trumpian thing, a political thing, but it was also an uninformed religious viewpoint,” he said.
When talking with Christians on that end of the ideological spectrum, Janssen resists the temptation to preach science. Instead, he asks questions about their assumptions and calmly dispels misconceptions like the thoroughly debunked belief that vaccines cause autism.
“One of the lessons we’ve learned is you really won’t get far just stating facts to people. Or less so shouting facts,” Janssen said.
Richardson also prioritizes listening over persuasion in her conversations with church members concerned about vaccination.
That approach reflects the Mennonite philosophy of being “peacemakers in a polarized world,” she said.
Measles in schools
By law, students in all Ontario schoolsincluding private religious schools - must be immunized against a host of childhood diseases, including measles, unless they are granted an exception on medical or philosophical grounds.
Just over 1,500 Grand Erie students face suspension on March 25 because their families have not submitted proof of vaccination or a valid exemption. The health unit has scheduled vaccine clinics during March break to help students catch up on needed shots.
Vaccination rates at private schools are harder to pin down, Lock said, noting some administrators are “reluctant” to release students’ names to the health unit due to privacy concerns.
Not knowing who has shared a classroom or school bus with students who have measles compounds the challenge for health officials trying to trace contacts and contain in-school outbreaks, he explained.
Since some families in the affected communities lack computers and access to traditional media, health units in Norfolk and Oxford tailor their outreach so educators and church leaders “can relay that message in their own language and their own media to their members,” said Tran.
Educators at Walsingham Christian School, an Anabaptist school in western Norfolk that has navigated a measles outbreak, sent home literature from the health unit about the importance of vaccination and what post-exposure treatment is available, along with holding a meeting with parents to make sure everyone understood the situation.
Principal Marten Klassen said his school advises students with potential measles symptoms to stay home to stop the spread and “be respectful of one another.”
“We can always catch up on knowledge and learning,” Klassen said.
The principal said “a majority” of the school’s 175 students have at least one MMR dose, and the health unit held vaccine clinics at the school so students and staff who were missing doses could get caught up.
The school and its affiliated church have no formal objection to immunization, leaving the choice up to individual families, Klassen added.
“Our church, our ministry, doesn’t specify vaccination at all. They don’t, and we wouldn’t, ban it,” he said.
“They wouldn’t encourage people not to get vaccinated. None of that stuff.”
Broader risk
Besides the potential for serious and lasting harm to those infected with measles, the spread of the highly contagious virus through an unvaccinated population poses a broader societal risk.
A person with measles can walk through a grocery store and an unvaccinated baby or immune-suppressed cancer patient who breathes the same air can get sick, even several hours after the person with measles has left.
And students in a poorly ventilated classroom who catch measles from a classmate can bring the virus home to their undervaccinated relatives.
Experts say a community must have a vaccination rate of at least 95 per cent to achieve herd immunity and keep the virus from spreading.
But vaccine uptake is lagging in Haldimand-Norfolk, where 88 per cent of sevenyear-olds and just 76.2 per cent of 17-yearolds were vaccinated against measles as of the 2023-24 school year, according the heath unit.
Measles was declared eradicated in Canada in 1998 due to widespread vaccination - but falling immunization rates, coupled with the rise in new cases, has that status in jeopardy. Whatever the current confirmed number of measles cases in Norfolk, health officials say the real number is likely much higher due to the reluctance of some residents to seek medical attention.
“Our contact tracing is limited to those that we know of. My suspicion is there are many more cases out there that we are not being informed of,” Lock said.
That has experts bracing for more serious outcomes as the outbreak nears its third month.
“Measles is far from a harmless childhood infection,” said Dawn Bowdish, a professor of medicine at McMaster.
The virus kills immune cells and eliminates “immune memory” in the body, wiping out the protective effect of past vaccines and leaving kids vulnerable to other illnesses, Bowdish told The Spectator.
“Children who’ve had measles can have more infections for up to five years,” she said, urging parents to get their children vaccinated as soon as possible.
“Of all the vaccines that we have, the measles vaccine has saved the most lives by far,” Bowdish said.
“As a parent, I understand that people are trying to parse all the information they have at hand to make what they feel is the best decision for their children. But the risk of hospitalization for measles is very high. And I can’t imagine that’s something any parent would want to risk.”
J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
Tundra swan migration is an incredible journey
SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO OUTDOORS
By Jeff Helsdon
The mysteries and splendor of spring migration never cease to amaze me.
Seeing clouds of ducks darken the sky as they lift off the water leaves me in awe each time I witness it. On a quiet day, the whirring of the wings of a large flock can be heard from a few kilometers away. But, while this
en masse spectacle is a sight for the eyes and ears to behold, the voyage of tundra swans is more magnificent.
Tundra, or whistling, swans are slightly smaller than Canada’s other native swan, the trumpeter swan. Both tundra and whistling swan apply to the swans that migrate through Southwestern Ontario, and have interesting stories behind them.
The term whistling swan was first coined by Meriweather Lewis, of the famed Lewis and Clark duo that explored the American west, for the whistling noise made by the bird’s wings while in flight. More than 220 years later, that name stuck, as well as the term ‘whistler’ which I have heard some locals use.
Tundra swan is a more recent name that was given to the whistling swan, and also encompasses the Eurasian Bewick’s swan. Both are now considered the same species. They are not to be confused with the invasive mute swan, which is native to Eurasia.
Tundra swans can be seen in
both the spring and fall. In Southwestern Ontario, the birds first appear in the Long Point area, but spread out slowly in smaller groups, gradually moving north as the snow recedes and waste agriculture crops become available to feed on. This provides a longer-lasting opportunity for viewing.
Swans congregate at the Aylmer Wildlife Management Area where viewing platforms are constructed. It’s not uncommon to see flocks of these birds feeding on fields outside Tillsonburg, or flying overhead while driving country roads.
Then, as temperatures warm, the swans edge northwest, often stopping in Lambton County before heading across Michigan and Wisconsin, the Prairie Provinces and then turn their migration north beyond on the tree line.
The migration of tundra swans is an incredible journey. The majority of the birds winter around Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, North Carolina and Virginia. Taking wing in late winter, their
6,000-km journey into the high Arctic begins. In this case, high Arctic means at the top of the Canadian mainland, along the Arctic Ocean in the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Quebec. Often this journey takes two to three months.
After reaching their breeding grounds, the swans mate, rear their young and then start the journey south again in September.
Breeding in the high Arctic where there aren’t a lot of people, little was known about the migration routes until about 25 years ago. The few tidbits about the route and timing was derived from observation of birds with necks collars with numbers and letters.
That changed when Dr. Scott Petrie started at the now-defunct Long Point Waterfowl. He used satellite transmitters to gain insight into the tundra swan’s voyage, its timing, layover points and end destinations.
As an area reporter, I wrote several stories on this research,
Zumbathon to raise funds for Tumaini Children’s Foundation
LEAH BAUER Advocate Correspondent
Tanzania is a country in Eastern Africa, home to the highest point in Africa (Mount Kilimanjaro), the birthplace of Freddie Mercury (Zanzibar) and perhaps most notably also a country with inhabitants who have strong ties to the Norfolk community.
Tumaini (which means hope in Swahili) was founded right here in Norfolk County in 2019 and since then they have worked tirelessly to bring support to children and families in Tanzania. More specifically to an impoverished area of Mount Meru, Tanzania.
The focus of the Tumaini Children’s Foundation is to provide opportunities, access to education, healthy food, health care, and safe housing to impoverished individuals in Tanzania.
On March 29, you have the opportunity to support this amazing local grassroots charity at their Zumbathon event! The Zumbathon takes place at the Norfolk (Delhi) Soccer Club at 547 Main St., Delhi on Saturday, March 29 from 1-3 p.m. Five different zumba instructors have donated their
time and Norfolk Soccer has donated the space.
Donations from Final Touch Fitness, Phoenix Framing and Stain Glass, Final Touch Hair Care and Spa, Tan to Perfection, The Country Fork, My Top Drawer, and Little Local Delhi will be part of the raffle and door prizes. If you purchase your tickets before March 20, you will be entered into an early bird draw!
There will also be a small Tanzanian Market Table that offers handmade goods from the Maasai Market supporting local artisans there.
Leslie Butler, the Executive Director of Tumaini Children's Foundation, noted the immense generosity the people of Norfolk County have shown to Tumaini, and the tangible positive impact these donations bring.
Tumaini is a volunteer-run organization and they appreciate any and all donations. They are proud to share that 96 cents to every dollar donated goes directly to providing healthy food, education, and shelter to those who need it.
The funds raised from the Zumbathon will go towards the monthly food budget to feed the children
who stay at the Tumaini home in Tanzania, as well as the children, and the Bibi’s (Bibi means grandma in Swahili) in the local community.
Butler concluded with a compelling note about the importance of charity in these turbulent times.
“It is important for everyone to help one another, and to stand up for the good in human nature, and if you can give; this is a great cause. We are transparent, we are grassroots, we are based in Norfolk County, and we make a difference in those individual lives.”
If you cannot attend the Zumbathon, any donation to Tumaini is appreciated and goes a long way. You can donate anytime on their website!
To get your tickets send a $25 etransfer to donate@tumainimeanshope.org. You may also get tickets at the door. For more information contact sharon@tumainimeanshope.org .
For more information about Tumaini Children’s Foundation and how you can become involved go to www.tumainimeanshope.org or contact leslie@tumainimeanshope.org
gaining insight into these birds. Tundra swans were captured with rocket nets, weighed, sexed and other criteria recorded before a satellite transmitter was surgically implemented and the bird released.
This was an expensive process and Petrie appealed to the community to help by sponsoring a swan. I was part of the Long Point and Area Fish and Game Club when members decided to support the cause, fondly naming our bird Harriette after long-time president Harry Stark. The public could log onto a web site to watch the journey of the swans.
Seeing one of these birds up close and personal was an experience I will never forget. At 1.2 to 1.4 meters in length, the tundra swan is not a small bird. It’s wing span is over two meters, or seven feet.
Each time I see a tundra swan, I fondly recall how fortunate I was to see these birds up close and gain insight into their incredible journey.
Norfolk Musical Arts Festival
Brownyn David singing The Wind by Cecil Sharman.
Uke’n Do It performs Somewhere Only We Know by Tim-Rice Oxley.
Norfolk Strings Community Orchestra.
Rachel Nichol performs Watch What Happens by Alan Menken.
Christopher Clarke gives a show-stopper performance of The Chill by Lindsay Price.
Nathan and Reece Garbedian play Tag, You’re It! by Wynn-Anne Rossi on the piano together at the Norfolk Musical Arts Festival highlights and award ceremony on March 4.
Preston Lall on the piano performing Positively Swinging by Christopher Norton.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Brian Woolley, right, of the Port Dover area was presented with the Long Point Conservation Authority’s Conservation Stewardship Award by authority chairman Dave Beres at the group’s annual meeting. Woolley has done
ronment,
Joan Norman of the Vittoria & District Foundation presents Juli Proracki, treasurer of the Norfolk Musical Arts Festival with a cheque for sponsorship of the venues for the 2025 festival.
The Norfolk Musical Arts Festival would like to thank the Belous Private Wealth Management Group for their sponsorship of the Feb. 24-27 annual festival in Simcoe. Visit the website for details (www.nmaf.ca).
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Bunnies, stallions and a sweet, secret recipe
OH,PLACESTHE WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
When I thought about Vienna, Austria, the first things that came to mind were Mozart, waltzing, heavy baroque architecture, and a strange obsession with coffee and pastries. What I didn’t think about were bunnies, and horses. But bunnies were the first residents of Austria’s capital city that we encountered after disembarking from our river cruise home away from home, the Viking Var.
There is a berm between the Danube docks and the city streets, and that berm is highly populated with extremely cute, small rabbits. To be honest, I think we smiled more as we strolled the paths along the berm than at any other time in the city – although we did, indeed, enjoy our visit to Vienna.
And horses? You may remember that Vienna is home to the Spanish Riding School and its white, Lipizanner stallions. A walking tour through the heart of Vienna included a visit to the stables, but before that, we were delighted when several of the majestic horses, with uniformed riders, cantered by, within arms-length of us on a busy Vienna street.
So, between the bunnies and the
stallions, we’d already had a pretty good day, before we even started to soak in the majesty, the music –and the obsession with cake – that is Vienna.
Many visitors come to Vienna just for the music. After all, this city was home to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn, and was also a frequent host to Beethoven, Schubert, Strauss, and many more classical composers.
The city’s claim to musical fame is never subtle; as you walk around Vienna, you will inevitably encounter dozens – literally – of Mozart look-alikes, all selling tickets to one of the innumerable concerts performed on a daily basis. Some are great, some perhaps not so much. It’s helpful to get some local guidance on this. If you happen to be on a river cruise, like our great Viking experience, an excellent concert will be one of the special excursions offered to its guests.
A side note: you may not even have to leave the ship. On our cruise, one of the on-board, evening features was an excellent performance of classical and operatic music by a talented quartet of local musicians. That became a unique experience when I was recruited to act as the love interest of one of the female singers. I was required to be silent but react appropriately to her declarations of love – and eventual abandonment of me. I am not sure I have yet recovered from the emotional trauma.
While great musicians definitely made their mark on Vienna, there is no doubt that the city, today, owes almost everything to a European dynasty – the Hapsburgs. The Hapsburgs ruled over a central and eastern European empire for 650 years – from the 13th century to the end of World War I.
A fun fact: Danube expert Isis-Sybille Frisch told us that the family carried the aristocratic designation, “Von Hapsburg”, but was
forced to drop it when bearing an aristocratic name was made illegal, at the conclusion of World War I.
But Hapsburg descendants continue to have influence throughout Europe, including in the United Kingdom, where King Charles is a direct descendant.
But Frisch underlined the importance of the Hapsburg legacy when she said, “In Vienna, there’s no escaping them!”
That’s especially evident when it comes to the architecture of the city – the imposing baroque buildings come from an era in the Hapsburgs’ history beginning around 1699, when the Hapsburgs defeated the Ottoman empire. Frisch told us that the end of that war freed up financial resources, which were immediately put to use creating landmarks like the Hofburg palace, in Vienna’s inner city, and the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace, enlarged to its present enormity by the famed Empress Maria Theresa, in 1750.
The building didn’t stop with baroque – there are remarkable examples of neo-Renaissance and Gothic-Romanesque creations, as well, none of them small or delicate. This is a city whose masters intended to make a statement, and make it big.
But there is a more relaxed side to Vienna, and that brings us back to the coffee and cakes. Vienna’s café society has flourished for more than 300 years. The cafés serve a selection of coffees that even Starbucks might envy, but the real stars of the show are the pastries – apfelstrudel, Linzer Torte, and especially that amazing Viennese culinary creation, Sachertorte, invented by Franz Sacher in 1832.
The Sachertorte recipe is still a carefully guarded secret. If you search for the recipe on line, the official Sacher website will only supply an “Approximate recipe”, which includes chocolate, vanilla, eggs, butter, sugar, and apricot jam. You might produce something
approximating Sachertorte, but it won’t be the real thing – Franz Sacher’s heirs make sure of that. For the real deal, you’ll just have to go to Vienna, and relax in a café where locals read newspapers, sip coffee, and perhaps enjoy a string quartet before heading out to walk the imposing streets of one of Europe’s architectural masterpieces.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@golden.net.
Roman ruins are revealed in the heart of the city.
Classical music is everywhere in Vienna – even on the Viking Var, the author's home away from home on the "Romantic Danube" cruise.
The quayside in Vienna boasts an unexpected group of bunnies!
The Hofburg Palace, in the city centre.
A impromptu encounter with Lipizanner stallions as they cantered down busy Vienna streets.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTO)
A unique fishing experience off the coast of Trinidad
The Lost Tribe
By Jeff Tribe
The stingray came up off the bottom as dead weight.
That was, until it saw the boat.
“Let it run!” interjected captain Richie Rampersad, as if there was any choice. Hand-bombing as we were, there was no rod tip to keep up, no drag to hum as line stripped. Instead, I controlled the run of thick monofilament as best I could, understanding better how much power a muscular fish shaped like a streamlined sail could generate, as well as why my more experienced shipmates were wearing finger protection.
We were ‘banking’ or bottom fishing at a depth of 70 feet in the Gulf of Paria, off the northwest coast of Trinidad. It was a trip years in the making, originating via an excursion out of Cozumel, Mexico. The fishing was good there, said our boat captain, but the real action was off the coast of Venezuela, which a quick check of the map revealed was adjacent to Trinidad.
“Does anyone in your family fish?” I asked our ‘Trini’ son-inlaw Arnold.
This past summer, his father Reynold declared we had talked long enough, and invited me along for a 10-day trip to the island na-
tion - family fishing included. A world-class fishery lies off Trinidad’s north coast, anglers pursuing tuna, blue marlin, sailfish, tarpon, wahoo, barracuda, grouper and American snapper among other species. This day, we were aboard Rampersad’s 30-foot ‘Sailing On’ off of Chaguaramas for a family excursion organized by Arnold’s cousin Rendell. We lay in waters protected from a wind warning along the northern coast by Chacachacre, Hueyvos, Monos and Gaspar Grande Islands.
Rampersad has been accompanying his father Michael fishing since he was a baby. During the week, the two operate a family-owned body shop, but ‘Saturdays are for fishing’ with groups including nephew Brandon and Richie’s daughter Celine.
Rampersad offers a monthly charter to help keep his boat in the water, connecting with Rendell through Richie's brother-in-law.
“Everyone enjoys it,” said Rampersad, who had been fishing the entire night before taking us out. He trolls for kingfish and other larger species, but prefers banking’s mixed bag.
“I like to go and pull my fish with my hands.”
We planned on leaving San Fernando at 5 a.m., but a delay, the logistics of several parties arriving from various points of the compass and a quick stop for doubles and aloo pie meant we were pulling out of La Soufriere Marina a little later than hoped - no worries, we were on ‘Trini time.’ Three generations of Sooknanans were aboard including patriarchs Reynold, enjoying his first fishing trip, Manchoon, whose foundational passion for the sport has spread, and Junior, a long-time scout leader rising at 3 a.m. to prepare pilau. Five cousins, three of their children and a pasty Canadian who had been made to feel like family from the moment he landed, rounded the crew.
Richie’s twin 250-horse out-
boards hastened the scenic fivemile trip to the fishing grounds, passing ocean-going vessels in beautiful sunshine en route, Trinidad’s capital Port of Spain visible to the south. Checking his GPS, Rampersad anchored in depths from 40 to 80 feet, moving when action slowed.
Richie set to work filleting and slicing herring to bait a pair of single, barbed hooks - tipping the top one with shrimp - above a lead sinker, ‘drop-shotted’ to the bottom. In theory, one let the lead weight sit and set the hook as biting fish pulled away. In practice, I noticed Richie giving his line an occasional jig, cousins Nick and Rendell illustrating a deft touch by reading a tentative bite 70 feet below and setting hooks, skills observed if not replicated.
The gulf proved a proverbial box of chocolates, producing ‘white salmon’ (big-scale salmon), bluefish (anchoo), shark, ‘white fish’ (a generic term covering a variety of species), lane snapper and ‘red fish’ or red snapper, that along with grouper, is Richie’s favourite.
“All the snappers, I like all the snappers.”
We also pulled in small, silvery fish and a prehistoric-looking thing from underneath a derelict wreck, a collection of sea snakes and a variety of catfish small and large. A larger catfish species is good eating when three toxic bone-like barbs are removed, a dangerous and delicate operation.
Rampersad uses his ‘most important tool’, a metal de-hooker to safely return undesirables. Fear one might fly 4,000 kilometres and get skunked was relieved with a willing salmon, a variety of other fish following, catfish and sea snakes included. Setting the hook on a red snapper capped a quest also featuring battles with a trio of sting rays.
“They’re very strong,” said Richie, a definite understatement.
He opened the throttle as we headed back to the marina at the
end of a long, productive and enjoyable day. We had experienced Trinidad’s two seasons, ‘dry and rainy’, enjoying a swim and feasting on delicious homemade pilau while anchored along Scotland Bay’s beautiful shoreline.
A couple of coolers of mixed catch were aboard, along with memories of a uniquely enjoyable
outing. If you ever get the chance to hook up with the tropical warmth of a Trini fishing trip - and the people you’ll get to share it with - don’t hesitate to say yes to what will be a wonderful experience. You can bank on it.
For a related video, search ‘Lost Tribe Trini Fishing Adventure’ on YouTube.
Rendell Sooknanan shows off a ‘red fish’, the preferred ‘banking’ catch.
Baked red snapper, rice and beans courtesy of ‘Aunt Hannah’ along with a side of her homemade lime pepper sauce.
Sailing On captain Richie Rampersad (left) and Jareem with a ‘white fish.’
Manchoon, fishing here with Port of Spain in the background, is the acknowledged fishing patriarch of the Sooknanan clan.
‘Everyone is like family’ at Mike’s Delhi Submarine
WHAT'S FOR DINNER NORFOLK COUNTY
By Ian Milmine
“If someone gives you an egg, give them back a chicken.”Mike Mouskos.
Step through the doors of Mike’s Delhi Submarine, and you’re instantly welcomed with the warm, familiar greeting, “Hello, my friend.” It’s a simple phrase, but one that embodies the heart and soul of this iconic sub shop, and beloved institution in Norfolk County for nearly five decades.
Mike Mouskos was born on the island of Cyprus on March 6, 1951. Growing up on a farm, Mike was accustomed to hard work from a very young age. During an era when starting work
at a young age was essential to supporting one's family, this became the foundation of his dedicated work ethic.
In 1968 at the age of 17, Mike joined the Cyprus National Guard where he completed his two years mandatory conscription. Six months after completing his service, he was engaged to his longtime love, Mary Miltiadous. A year later they would leave their home and move to Kitchener, Ont., where they lived with his sister Koulla. They married on April 21, 1974, and just a few months later in July 1974 disaster would strike. Turkey would invade Cyprus, a heavily Greek island, and
his parents would lose their farm during the invasion. His parents then had to flee to Canada, where the family would reunite and start their new beginnings.
Mike would work for his sister on Sundays at her shop in Woodstock, where he was making a familiar menu. A random customer came in for a sub on a Sunday in 1977. Upon finishing his sub, he approached Mike and told him, “It was the best sub he ever had in his life”. The stranger went on to encouraged Mike to open his own shop in Delhi. The very next day Mike and his brother would travel to Delhi in search of opportunity.
A store front sat vacant at 105 King Street, Delhi. Mike called the owner and asked to see the shop and inquired about renting the space. The owner came over to the shop to greet Mike and his brother and to give them a tour of the place. The owner at the time being Greek, gave Mike a break on the rental cost. Originally asking $500 a month, the owner only charged Mike $300. Without hesitation the 24-year-old signed a five-year lease the same day.
He went home to tell his wife the good news - they were opening a sub shop in Delhi.
With a menu inspired by his sisters’ successful shop in Woodstock, Mike would bring the same style shop, dedication to community and service to Delhi. Bringing affordable food that stood apart from what was locally available, Delhi Sub would start its humble journey to becoming the iconic shop it is today. Working with his wife and mother at the shop for many years, he would eventually start a family. His son went on to marry Nancy, who has been working along side Mike for the last 22 years.
Mike’s dedication is legendary. In 48 years, he has never missed a day of work. He is there to open the door in the morning and lock it up at the end of the night. The shop used to operate seven days a week and they only took vacation once a year. Now they close on Sundays so they can spend a day with their families.
Mike never got the strangers name, but he would like to thank him for his encouragement to become an entrepreneur. It was his words that brought Mike to Delhi to open his shop.
Delhi Sub is more than just a business - it’s a Norfolk County institution, built on hard work, resilience, and an unwavering passion for serving the best subs around.
And it all started with hard work, a dedication to family, and one customer’s unforgettable compliment.
Ian Milmine is the Facebook administrator for What’s For Dinner Norfolk County. To share your feedback on his monthly Norfolk column - or ask him questions – email Ian at imilmine@hotmail.com
Serving subs, burgers, fish and chip, souvlaki and more, you can find something for everyone here at very affordable prices. Whether it’s a quick lunch, take out or dine in, this iconic shop is still rooted in its origins of “everyone is like family, and we take care of our family.”
The menu at Mike’s Delhi Submarine includes subs, burgers, fish and chip, souvlaki and more.
Riddles
Who's St. Patrick's favorite superhero?
Answer: Green Lantern!
What kind of spells do leprechauns use?
Answer: Lucky Charms!
Why do people wear shamrocks on St. Patrick's Day?
Answer: Real rocks are too heavy!
What do you get when you cross a four-leaf clover with poison ivy?
Answer: A rash of good luck.
Why did the leprechaun go outside?
Answer: To sit on his paddy-o.
Why do leprechauns recycle?
Answer: They like to go green.
How is a good friend like a four leaf clover?
Answer: They’re hard to find.
What type of music do leprechauns love?
Answer: Sham-rock and roll.
PET OF THE WEEK
PICKLES
Meet our Pet of the Week: She is a black and white tuxedo cat. She is playful and very mischievous and loves to play with other pets in the home.
Word Search
ST. PATRICKS DAY
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
MONDAY, MARCH 10SATURDAY, MARCH 15
The Library Super Six: March Break Edition!
Play, create and connect more! See ncp.ca for details.
Norfolk County Public Library
THURSDAY, MARCH 13
Weekly Coffee Break
9:30 a.m
Donations towards our church Wheelchair Accessibility Fundraising. Everyone welcome!
St. John's Anglican Church Woodhouse, Hwy 24 S. and St.John's Rd, Simcoe
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
Celebrate Pi Day (3.14)
6:30 p.m
The Shrubberies will be playing the Riversyde 83 Cafe stage.
An assortment of delicious fruit and cream pies will be available alongside our amazing cafe fare.
83 Sydenham St. Simcoe
St. Patrick's Day Party
7:30 p.m
Music & light snacks. Hotdogs available for purchase. For More Information call, the Legion at 519-443-5588 or visit www.teetervillelegionbranch526.ca
The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
Science Saturday
1 p.m - 1:30 p.m
Each week, we'll explore cool science topics like physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, astronomy, and more.
Norfolk County Public Library
Simcoe Branch - 46 Colborne Street South Simcoe and Delhi Branch - 192 Main Street of Delhi
MONDAY, MARCH 17
Shine Bright: Diamond Art Workshop for Teens
4 p.m - 5 p.m
Discover the joy of Diamond Art, a relaxing and creative hobby where you craft stunning artwork by placing colourful resin rhinestones on a sticky canvas.
Norfolk County Public Library Simcoe Branch46 Colborne Street South Simcoe
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
Teen Social Night
4 p.m - 5 p.m
Looking for a fun way to hang out, get creative, and game with friends? Whats in store?Squad up in Minecraft, Roblox, and Dungeons & Dragons - Dive into epic tabletop games & creative challenges - Chat about your favourite books & anime - Meet new people, have a blast, and pick next months theme!
Norfolk County Public Library Port Dover Branch - 713 St. George Street Port Dover
FRIDAY, MARCH 21
Join us for a friendly game of DARTS
7 p.m
Registration at 6:45. Everyone is Welcome. Draw for partners.
The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526
3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26
Kanopy After Dark: A Cinematic Escape for Grown-Ups! - ages 18+
7 p.m - 9 p.m
Join fellow film enthusiasts in a welcoming, communal setting for a night of cinematic discovery.
Norfolk County Public Library Simcoe Branch46 Colborne Street South Simcoe
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
OPEN JAM
1 p.m - 10 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
Experience Fanshawe College’s 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
Waterford Foodland welcomes the Poiriers
If you’ve stopped into Waterford Foodland lately you may have seen a couple new faces. Matt and Jamie Poirier are the new owners and they are fitting into their new surroundings quite well.
I guess you could call them ‘the new kids on the block’. So welcome to you both!
“I was born in Hamilton but grew up in Port Dover. Jamie grew up in Toronto,” says Matt. “I met Jamie when I was working for Sobeys in Oakville. I guess you could say the rest is history.”
The Poiriers are not new to the grocery business or to Sobey’s. “I’ve been a part of Sobeys since I was just 17 years old,” said Matt.” I was a Meat Department Manager for 19 years. Sobeys offered a FIT program – Franchisee In Training – so I decided to take it.”
Since then, Poirier has had franchises in Caledonia, Ingersoll, Elmira and Cayuga. Jamie was doing forensics for Intact Insurance but decided to join Jamie in the grocery business in 2018.
“We discussed having a store together so Jamie gave her job up... she kind of got ‘thrown into the fire’ but we’ve found a way to make it work,” said Matt. “We had Ingersoll and Elmira both at the same time but we were separated a lot of the time. We had three-and-a-half years left on our franchise in Ingersoll when we sold it and 18 months left at Elmira. Add three girls (ages 7, 11 and 15) to the equation and the decision to sell became a bit easier.
“We’re quite happy having just one store and we love the Waterford community. I got to know the former owner, John VanDam, and a lot of the staff here knew me. We took over Feb. 2nd and got right in here to see what we needed, what we had and what we want. We’re loving it here... we’re closer to home and my ‘pipe dream’ is to one day have a property on the edge of town... I’m a real outdoor person,” said Matt.
He also explained that living closer to his work would be more convenient.
“If an alarm should go off I would be a lot closer... we need to have a contingency plan.”
Running a store is more than just slapping groceries up on a shelf.
“We want to live up to how John ran the
store... I looked up to him.”
They are always ready to serve the community.
“We want to hear from the customers to let us know what they want and we will look for it... we have resources to locate products. We are also ‘local proud’ and believe in supporting as many Canadian companies and products as we can. Look for the ‘Local Support Canada’ signs on the shelves and the Canadian flags in their flyers. Don’t be shy... if you don’t see what you’re looking for just ask us and we’ll try our best to get it. We are always wanting to evolve.”
Waterford Foodland employs about 75-77 employees with each department having two or three full-time staff.
“Next year will be our first full-fledged Pumpkinfest and I’m looking forward to being a part of that. I hope to be a part of a lot of things going on in the community and to actively be a part of this town.”
The Poirier family is a perfect fit for Waterford and to date they say they have been welcomed by everyone. The small-town friendly feeling and their welcoming staff will make your next trip to the grocery store a pleasant experience.
BRENDA MOSER
Advocate Correspondent
Matt and Jamie Poirier are the new franchisee owners of Waterford Foodland.
TRAVEL PRESENTATION COSTA RICA Group Tour
9-days departing from Simcoe on January 22, 2026
Includes: local airport transfers, 14 meals, fully escorted, sightseeing cruises/tours, zip line, beach bungalows
Tuesday, March 25
2 pm - Port Dover Grace United Church, 18 Chapman St. W.
5 pm - Simcoe
South Coast World Travel, 61 Robinson St.
RSVP to janice@ketchen.net 416-505-1658 or 519-426-2144
RIVERSYDE 83'S COMMUNITY KITCHEN
SANDWICH ODYSSEY - Join Chef Elliot, Riversyde 83's very own Red Seal Chef, in the Community Kitchen. Cooking experience is not necessary. Class 1 - Mediterranean flavours
THURSDAY, MARCH 20, 2025 - 11 am to 2 pm Class 2 - German cuisine
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 2025 - 11 am to 2 pm To register, email churchoutserving@gmail.com. The cost of each class is $56.50. Classes are limited to 10 participants.
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)
WE ARE HIRING HIRING
JOIN OUR TEAM AS A NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE!
Are you a motivated self-starter with a passion for sales and marketing? Do you thrive in a flexible work environment where you can set your own schedule? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!
Worship With Us
Location: Work from Anywhere!
Type: Commission
Schedule: Your Own Schedule
St. John’s Anglican Church (Woodhouse)
About Grant Haven Media: At Grant Haven Media, we are committed to delivering top-quality news and information to our readers. As a leading newspaper company, we take pride in our dedication to journalistic excellence and community engagement. As we continue to grow, we're looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our dynamic sales team.
If you are interested, contact If you are interested, contact Heather Dunbar at: Heather Dunbar at: heather@granthaven.com heather@granthaven.com
883 Norfolk St. S, Simcoe Rev Leah Arvidsson www.parishoflongpointbay.com 519-426-4766 Join us for Sunday Worship at 11 am Community Coffee Break Thursdays, 9:30-11:30 am
Deadline: Monday prior at 3 p.m. Contact:
• The Simcoe Advocate Community Calendar allows non-profit organizations to promote their free admission community events at no charge. Event listings can include the event name, date, time and location as well as contact information (ie phone number, email address or website).
• If your event is not free admission or you would like to include more details than stated above, the Simcoe Advocate offers the following options for promoting your community events:
◦ Coming Events Word Ad in Classified section (50 word max.) - $10 + hst
◦ Coming Events Boxed Word Ad in Classified section (50 word max.) - $15 + hst
◦ Display Ad - Sizes begin at a Small Classified Display ad (3.3" x 2.5") - $35 + hst
