New Veteran's crosswalk for Simcoe
With her son Nolan at her side, who recently returned from a 13-month deployment that included eight months overseas in Latvia, Stephanie Johnston came to Norfolk County Council with a simple request.
She said she was willing to raise the money herself to fund a veteran’s crosswalk for Simcoe, and just wanted the County’s permission to have it installed.
Councillors granted that permission, but also offered up the money for the military tribute.
“We’ll look after this first one,” said Coun. Chris Van Paassen as he put forward an amendment to a community-led initiatives report on Johnston’s plan to install veteran’s crosswalks across the county. The County will instead fund the first crosswalk itself.
The tribute is a personal one for Johnston. Not only is her son a service member, but she’s also the great granddaughter, granddaughter, daughter, and niece of men who have served in the military.
“A veteran’s crosswalk is a visible and long-lasting tribute to all the men and women who have served our country and our community. It also serves as a reminder of their sacrifice, courage and commitment,” she said.
Johnston said she began working on the project shortly after Nolan deployed.
Installation of a crosswalk could cost as much as
Where Stars Still Shine at SLT
of nostalgia - runs Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 28 at 2 p.m.
Are you ready to see the stars shine at Simcoe Little Theatre?
The SLT 80th anniversary show, Where Stars Still Shine, filled with music, laughter, and nostalgia – a lot
The production celebrates many highlights of plays, musicals local celebrities and stories that have brought the community together Simcoe Little Theatre over the last
80 years.
Where Stars Still Shine, written and directed by Jan Rainey, assisted by Dave Kent, with stage manager JP Cullen, choreographer Naomi Auld, and musical directors Tony and Michelle Proracki, will put smiles on the faces of new and long-time the-
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Rehearsing for Simcoe Little Theatre’s 80th anniversary show opening number.
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
SLT 80th anniversary show promises ‘best of the best'
atre patrons. Audience clapping and singing are encouraged.
It promises to be a walk down memory lane and a look at the bright future of Simcoe Little Theatre.
“We kind of made it into segments, highlighting holiday shows, the female performers, male performers, comedy… it’s divided into sections,” said Rainey. “Together, with Dave, myself and the musical directors, selected the music.”
They are all alumni, said Rainey. Some go back as far as 30 years performing, or more, and some current Young Theatre Players.
The show will be presented in a format similar to Emmy and Tony Awards with
host and hostess, and guest presenters introducing each segment.
It’s a blend of music and acting, said Rainey, and it will run just over two hours (with an intermission).
“It’s a lot of what I would call entertainment, focusing on music from the best musicals we’ve done, and pulling out excerpts from plays.”
“Jam-packed with non-stop excitement,”
Kent smiled.
“It definitely looks back and talks about the history of Simcoe Little Theatre, and celebrates, we think, the best of the best of volunteer-run theatre,” said Rainey.
Tickets can be ordered through the SLT website (simcoelittletheatre.org) or by calling the box office (519-583-0505).
Wilson Drive will get a Veteran’s crosswalk
$20,000, money Johnston was willing to raise with the help of the Norfolk Community Foundation.
The first crosswalk is planned for Wilson Avenue at the Carillon Tower, itself a tribute to those who died in the First World War. She hopes to eventually get five installed throughout each of Norfolk’s urban communities.
There’s a bridge replacement project being undertaken in the area, with staff committing to having it wrapped up in time for Remembrance Day. While that leaves a tight timeline, General Manager of Public Works Andrew Grice said they’ll try to also get the crosswalk installed in time for Remembrance Day.
NEWSPAPER PICK UP LOCATIONS
SIMCOE__________
• Annaleise Carr Aquatic Centre
• Aspira Cedar Crossing Retirement Living
• Barnyard Patio & Pub
• Barrel Restaurant
• Bubbles Laundry
• Canadian Tire
• Cedar St Food Market
• Cedarwood Village Retirement Apartments & Nursing Home
• Ferris Funeral Home Limited
• Florian Clinic & Day Spa
• Harmony Pastry Shop & Cafe
Joy Bakery Cafe McDonald's - 77 Queensway East
• McDonald's - 160 Queensway East
• My Paint & Décor
Norfolk County Archives Norfolk County Library Pharmasave Clark's Health Centre
• RE/MAX Erie Shores
Realty Inc
• Real Canadian Superstore Queensway East
• Riversyde 83
• Robinson Chevrolet Buick GMC Simcoe Inc
• Roulston’s Pharmacy
• Royal LePage Trius Realty
• Ru ins Pet Store
• Shoppers Drug Mart
• Simcoe Convenience
• Simcoe Little Theatre
• Simcoe Recreation Centre
• Simcoe Seniors Centre
• Sobeys
• Tim Hortons - White Horse Plaza
• Tim Hortons - Queensway East
• Walmart Supercentre WATERFORD_______
• Belching Barista
• Esso
• Foodland Waterford Kerry’s James St. Eatery Minor Bros. Country Living
• Tricenturena Waterford Arena
• Waterford Heritage & Ag Museum
• Waterford Home Building Centre
• Waterford Pharmacy and Health Food
DELHI___________
• Ca ery Hardware & Electric Limited
• Canadian Tire
• Circle K
• Crompton Home Building Centre
• Dave’s Variety
• Delhi Community Arena
• Roulston’s Pharmacy
• Tim Hortons Wilkinson’s YIG
COURTLAND_______
• Courtland Bakery Ltd.
• Courtland Variety & Café
LANGTON________
• Langton Food Market
• Langton Pharmacy
SCOTLAND_______
• Scotland Food Market
A veteran’s crosswalk is being planned for Wilson Avenue at the Carillon Tower in Simcoe.
Charly Buck rehearses for the Simcoe Little Theatre’s 80th anniversary show, Where Stars Still Shine, June 26-28.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Norfolk Night Market – vendors, music, workshops
The Norfolk County Agricultural Society welcomed the community to the Norfolk Night Market on June 5 and 6 at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds in Simcoe.
More than 50 local vendors, artisans, makers, food vendors, community organizations, and local beverage producers were on site for two evenings of shopping, live entertainment, family fun, creativity, and connection.
"The Night Market has become much more than a shopping event," said Angela Hogeveen, General Manager of the Norfolk County Agricultural Society, in a media release. "It's a place where people gather, discover local businesses, enjoy great food and entertainment, and spend qual-
ity time together. We are proud to create an event that celebrates community while supporting local entrepreneurs and artists."
This year's Night Market also featured hands-on workshops including wood painting and stained glass experiences led by local artists and makers.
Participants had the opportunity to learn new skills while creating something unique to take home.
Proceeds from the event directly support the Norfolk County Agricultural Society and help fund community programming, facility improvements, agricultural education, preserve agricultural traditions, and future events at the fairgrounds that bring Norfolk County together.
227 Main Street of Delhi, Delhi, ON Monday to Sunday | 8 a.m. - 8 p.m
Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, family picnic, or gathering with friends, Wilkinson's Your Independent Grocer has everything you need to make your celebration memorable.
Wishing our customers, neighbours, and community a safe and happy Canada Day!
Hounds of Erie staff Holly and Matt had a friendly cornhole rivalry going at the Norfolk Night Market. Who won? You’ll have to ask them at Hounds of Erie Winery.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Carol and Doug Williams of Waterford enjoy food from Forkin’ Perogy, one of many food vendors at the June 5-6 Norfolk Night Market.
Two weeks left to have your say on the future of Nanticoke and taking care of business
Haldimand-Norfolk
Bobbi Ann Brady
History doesn’t lie, but rather records the consequences of the choices we make.
With a little research, examples from across North America abound as to what happens when major development gets ahead of infrastructure. One just needs to look west where during the Fort McMurray oil sands boom, accelerated growth saw thousands of new residents in a short period of time. Although homes were initially built gradually, eventually roads, healthcare services, schools, emergency services and municipal infrastructure desperately struggled to keep pace. The pace of growth ultimately outstripped infrastructure planning.
The region of Fort McMurray grew from about 37,000 people in 1996 to nearly 80,000 ten years later. For comparison’s sake, according to the Census of 2021, Haldimand County is just over 49,000 people. The proposal from Empire Communities could see 15,000 homes built over the coming years. Assuming 2.5 people per household, 15,000 homes could mean 37,500 new residents to the Nanticoke area. At three people per household, that number reaches 45,000 new residents, which nearly doubles the county’s population.
Let me be clear: I am not opposed to growth, but I am cautious about promises that development will stop at a
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certain point. Once a large development is established and homes are selling, the momentum for continued expansion becomes real. I believe the communities of both Haldimand and Norfolk should understand not only the proposal on the table, but the precedent it might set.
Over the past four years, the proposed city at Nanticoke has been the topic of conversation nearly everywhere I go. People are not shy about raising infrastructure concerns, nor should they have to apologize for wanting to protect the quality of life generations have worked hard to build. I want to protect that too! Haldimand-Norfolk is home to practical people who cannot be convinced prosperity is measured by the number of homes or people. Rather, you believe prosperity is found in things like good jobs, protected farmland, quality healthcare and effective education.
Highway 6 is already a leading source of frustration in the area as it relates to safety and congestion. It is reasonable to expect more affordable housing at the industrial park could attract buyers from larger urban centres, with many continuing to commute to jobs outside the county. Thousands of additional daily trips will place immense pressure on an already chaotic highway.
While Empire Communities claims it will install a $60$80 million wastewater treatment plant without the help of the taxpayer, I assure you any upgrades to roadways; building of schools, medical centres; hiring of police and paramedics will fall to the taxpayer.
So far, four Haldimand County councillors have spoken for the people of Haldimand County with respect to this proposal. Meanwhile, Norfolk County Council has largely sat idly by, despite the significant impact this proposal could have on the area. I am encouraged to see candidates seeking election in October bringing this issue to the forefront and giving voice to the concerns of Norfolk taxpayers.
The power is now in your hands. It is time to show the Ford government that the community of Haldimand-Norfolk is not a willing host for a city at Nanticoke. I maintain, democracy works best when people stand up, participate, and let their elected leaders know where they stand. Now is the time to do exactly that by inserting your comments at: https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/026-0451 - please note the deadline to comment is July 3rd.
History doesn’t lie. Time and again, history has proven when growth outpaces infrastructure, communities bear the cost. Responsible planning means learning from the past, not repeating it. Next column, I’ll dive into what history tells us about the ‘rust belt.’
TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS
March 23rd to June 2nd served as the bookends to a brief but busy legislative session at Queen’s Park.
As your independent voice at the Legislature, I am proud of what we accomplished during those short weeks. Most importantly, these achievements are not mine alone - they are yours as well. Whether through emails, phone calls, meetings, community events or chance encounters, your input helped shape the questions I asked, the motions I ta-
bled and the positions I took on your behalf.
On March 26th, the government kicked things off with its 2026 Ontario Budget. Overall, I wasn’t particularly tickled by it; I was looking for affordability measures to help you through these economically challenging times but there wasn’t much in the way of easing the pressure on household finances. But they did listen to those of you who signed my petition and others in opposition who had been calling for a reduction in the Small Business Tax Rate (SBTR). Our small businesses needed that shot in the arm and let’s hope Ford keeps reducing the SBTR.
On April Fool’s Day, knowing the Ford government was fooling no one with its posturing on the ineffective and costly federal gun buyback, I stood during Question Period demanding Premier Ford back up his tough talk with real action to protect law-abiding gun owners like Alberta and Saskatchewan. I also launched a petition urging the same thing. Almost two months later, seems like they heard me: the Ontario government joined the fight asking the Supreme Court to declare the gun program unconstitutional.
The Ontario government clearly heeded my 2024 and 2025 motions to cut teachers college to one year from two. This will save students tuition money and get qualified teachers into classrooms faster, which is currently a dire need.
I’ve been urging the government to limit foreign ownership of farmland, especially in my role on the government’s Finance Committee. This is also one of the main thrusts of my colleague Mike Schreiner’s and my Bill 21, Food belt Protection Act, 2025. Interestingly, the government introduced Protecting Ontario's Food Independence Act, 2026 (POFIA) to limit foreign ownership of Ontario farmland. I recently attended a technical briefing on the bill where I was disappointed to learn that all the details on how they will restrict foreign ownership are yet to be developed. I am suspicious POFIA was tabled so that the government can dismiss Bill 21. Time will tell.
Another win was in May when the folks across the aisle heeded my 2024 and 2025 motions to increase the Ontario HST New Home Rebate to reflect 75 per cent of the HST based on the first $1 million of a new build, rather than the $400,000 threshold. Buyers can now receive a combined federal-provincial rebate of up to $130,000 for new homes priced up to $1 million. For homes up to $1.5 million, the maximum rebate is $130,000, it then scales down for properties up to $1.85 million.
You and I have had some wins at Queen’s Park over the past couple of months. As I said at the start, your advice and guidance informed much of my output. I will keep listening and acting accordingly.
Norfolk’s 2026 Multicultural Food Festival
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
It was a busy day Saturday at the 2026 Multicultural Food Festival at the Delhi Tobacco Museum and Heritage Centre on June 6.
“It’s a great day,” said festival co-organizer Judy Schaeffer from the Multicultural and Heritage Association of Norfolk. “Our mandate, really, is to get people aware of the growing diversity in our community. So we want to make sure people enjoy various foods, visit the Tobacco Museum, and consider joining Multicultural (MHAN). We need more members, new young members to be able to sustain us.”
The Deconinck family of Delhi introduced festival-goers to Indian cuisine, one of the outdoor vendors this year.
“We have buttered chicken, we have chick peas and puri (fried roti), and this year we have vegetable pakoras (fritters),” said Perry Deconinck with his wife Kimmi and family.
“They (organizers) wanted to represent India and they chose us,” Perry smiled. “I know how to cater and do this part, and she knows how to cook the Indian food.
“I hope we get even more people this year, but honestly, the weather forecast scared us a little bit. They asked us if we wanted to move inside, I said ‘If it rains, yes, hold a spot for us.’ If it’s nice, we’d like to stay outside.”
Last year’s Multicultural Food Fest had about 650-700 people.
“This year we have a few new vendors,” said Schaeffer, noting the addition of African cuisine. “We have two Filipino vendors this year – Lola Letty from Port Dover and Springroll Fantasy.”
Indoors, the Delhi Hungarian Hall, German Home, and Polish Hall all participated.
Other vendors included a multicultural barbecue, Sweet Darlings Coffee and Bites (Korean), La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant, and Ukrainian perogies.
The desserts – a wide variety - were donated by the community.
“We had more this year than last year,” said Andrew Moore, curator of the Delhi Tobacco Museum and Heritage Centre.
“And the weather today is supposed to get better and better.”
“We also have live music,” Moore noted. Jim Hooft performed indoors, and outdoors were Traci Kennedy, Nolan Gibson and JP Reimens.
The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 125 Delhi, partnered with the Multicultural and Heritage Association of Norfolk to run the 50-50 draw.
New this year, a free shuttle service was offered to the festival from the Delhi Soccer Club.
“We didn’t realize we were going to have 650-700 people here last year and we because it’s the 2nd annual, we knew parking was going to be an issue,” said Moore. “Murphy’s (Funeral Home) was generous enough to give us their parking.”
“A big thank you to Don and Rebecca Murphy, allowing us to park at the funeral home’s (nearby) triangular parking lot,” Schaeffer nodded.
“We have about 20 Multicultural & Heritage volunteers, too,” said Moore. “Without them, it couldn’t happen.”
“And we have a number of student volunteers,” Schaeffer added.
Delhi Hungarian Hall at the Multicultural Food Festival in Delhi on June 6.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Traci Kennedy of Woodstock performed at the Multicultural Food Festival.
MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, centre, at the 2026 Multicultural Food Festival.
Kyle and Erin Fish, with daughter Persephone, at the Multicultural Food Festival.
Annelise Franklin, festival co-organizer Judy Schaeffer, Andrew Moore and Alfredo Guidolin at the June 6th Multicultural Food Festival in Delhi.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR - Nanticoke MZO proposal
Haldimand County Council voted three times to support the Empire Homes application for a land rezoning through the Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) process. Haldimand County has finished its work on this matter and the process is entirely in the hands of the provincial government.
The key details of Empire's proposal for Nanticoke include:
• 1,700 hectares (4,200 acres) of total land area.
• 1,010 hectares (2,500 acres) or 60% of the total land area used for residential development with the potential for 15,000 residential units (since revised down to 10,000) and 40,000 new residents (new estimate = 26,000).
• A total of 2,000 (15%) of the new residential units would be dedicated to affordable housing.
• 690 hectares (1,700 acres) or 40% of the total land area used for employment development with the potential to bring 7,500 to 11,000 jobs.
• The potential for an additional 7,000 to 8,000 commercial retail and service jobs to support the new community, intermixed within the residen-
tial and employment areas.
• 40 hectares (100 acres) of waterfront lands to be dedicated to Haldimand County for recreational development (such as parks, trails, etc).
• The development of a new wastewater treatment plant which could also accommodate/service the communities of Hagersville, Jarvis and Townsend in the long term.
• The extension of natural gas infrastructure and capacity to the area.
• MZO approval would allow for the start of a comprehensive local planning review to ultimately decide if the proposal should move forward.
The Big Lie…
• A CITY OF 40,000 WILL SUDDENLY APPEAR - There will not be and cannot be a city of 40,000 plopped on the doorstep of Norfolk County in the next few years.
At the best rate of development of new housing in Haldimand County (currently averages 319 houses across the WHOLE County), building 15,000 houses would take over 50 years or longer, given the economy and competition.
• LACK OF WASTERWATER TEATMENT - The proponent, Empire
Homes, has publicly stated they will invest over $100,000,000 to build a wastewater treatment plant in addition to the infrastructure related to potable water, roads, and other requirements required to develop the lands.
• LACK OF MEDICAL SERVICES –
The Haldimand Norfolk Brant Brantford Health Unit governs the health care in the Counties and continually monitors and adjusts the needs of the citizens. Currently, there are three hospitals in Haldimand and Norfolk to serve a population of approximately 117,000. There are 63 primary care doctors combined. The broader medical workforce across both counties also includes eight midwives, 60 paramedics, and hundreds of nurses, pharmacists, specialists, and allied professionals operating through the regional hospital networks.
• LACK OF POLICE SERVICES –
The OPP contract is NOT controlled by Council and the existing Police Services Board cannot dictate service levels or costs. Police service will be increased only as needs become apparent such as through pop-
ulation growth.
• DIRTY HOUSES - Only some existing houses on the east side of the steel company get periodic siding washed. The prevailing winds are from the west, so the statement that new houses in the development would need cleaning is patently false and a scare tactic. Additionally, with the closure of the OPG site, the cleaning of the small number of houses has decreased. The presentation to Haldimand Council by Empire Homes clearly outlines that the construction will be on the west extremity of the property with a large buffer of commercial and light industry between the current heavy industry and the proposed houses.
• SUMMARY
The MZO proposal ticks all the policy boxes, and more, of the Provincial government – housing, jobs, infrastructure and investment.
Dennis Travale | Simcoe
Laurie and Cindy Smith of La Salette at the Multicultural Food Festival, enjoying pierogies.
Desserts, desserts, and more desserts.
The Delhi Polish Hall at the Multicultural Food Festival.
A community Ukrainian food vendor at the Multicultural Food Festival.
Multicultural Food Festival co-organizer Jon Kloepfer and volunteer Chris Byer.
The Deconinck family at the Multicultural Food Festival. (CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Subdivision proposed in southeast Simcoe
LUKE EDWARDS Grant Haven Media
Another piece of the growth plan for Simcoe is starting to come into focus.
LIV Communities presented a plan for their parcel of land in the southeast corner of the town at the June 2 Norfolk County public hearings meeting. Their proposed subdivision would include somewhere between 268 and 509 residential units when finished, including a mix of single detached homes and street townhouse units.
The developers will require a zoning bylaw amendment to allow their proposal to move forward.
Robert McQuillan, a senior planner with the Biglieri Group, said the section of Simcoe is slated for future growth, and their proposal fits in with existing plans.
“We feel it creates a connected community here in Simcoe and we’re happy to bring it forward today,” he told councillors.
The Grand Erie District School Board has identified a potential need for an elementary school in the area, and McQuillan said they envision it being located in the central part of the property, next to planned parkland.
This property is one of three major developments planned for the area. Others include Woodway Trails and a development by Calibrex. At a meeting held earlier this spring, councillors heard of the challenges of a quad-party servicing agreement for a sanitary sewer outlet between the three developers and Norfolk County.
“Do you see the outlet for the sanitary sewer to our treatment plant, do you see that being resolved soon?” asked Coun. Doug Brunton.
“I think there are ways that it can be resolved but there are further discussions that need to take place between ourselves and the neighbours,” replied Ben Jones, director of land development at LIV Communities, adding the quad-party agreement isn’t the only option.
“We believe there’s a variety of servicing solutions that could be brought forward but the preferred solution is something that will need the consent of our neighbours,”
he said.
There’s a lot to be done beforehand, but Jones said construction on the homes could begin as early as 2029, “if the stars align.”
With a potential school block, Coun. Alan Duthie said he wanted to ensure there was plenty of parking.
“If there is a school block that’s required, you’ll meet and hopefully exceed requirements there?” he said.
McQuillan told the councillors they’ll consider the comments as they do further planning for a potential school block.
Residents did raise some concerns at the hearing. One of their biggest was traffic and safety issues that already exist along Decou Road. They described a couple dangerous spots, including one near the trail crossing, where pedestrians and cyclists can often be found.
Others expressed concerns about water and wastewater effects from the development. McQuillan said the goal is not to affect neighbours.
“We’re creating a connected community for not just our future residents but the residents in the broader area as well,” he said. No decisions were made at the meeting. Staff will now take into account the community comments and prepare a recommendation report.
Weekend Quiz
By Jake Grant
Scotts Canada expansion approved in Delhi
‘In desperate need of storage’
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
Known for helping others grow plants, Scotts Canada has been so successful they’ve asked for permission to grow their own facility in Delhi.
And they’ll be able to do just that, thanks to Norfolk councillors approving a zoning bylaw application for the property on Talbot Road.
“They’re in desperate need of storage,” said ward Coun. Michael Columbus, pointing out the Delhi facility employs about 70 people and can have as many as 90 trucks coming in and out of the business every day.
Scotts Canada sought the zoning bylaw
amendment to allow them to build an expanded storage facility on the property. As business has expanded in recent years, the company has been forced to rent storage space, which is becoming increasingly expensive.
“This is a better long-term solution for them,” said Mike Crough, a planning consultant with Arcadis.
A 6.7-hectare portion of the property is being rezoned to allow for the storage yard. A holding provision has been attached. It’ll be removed once an archaeological assessment is complete.
The proposal was both presented in public hearing form and approved during a subsequent special council meeting held on June 2.
Stormwater among concerns over Fernwood proposal
concerns.
How will cars get in and how will water get out?
Those were two of the key questions councillors and residents had about a proposed 68-unit development on Fernwood Drive in Simcoe. Proponents presented the new plan to the public and councillors at the June 2 public hearings meeting.
Situated on property that was the subject of an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal in 2020, the new proposal contains an overall similar unit total, with 68 units proposed instead of the previous 67. However, the new owners are seeking a zoning bylaw amendment to reflect the newly proposed building forms, which includes 14 semi-detached dwellings and 54 group townhomes.
GSP Group’s Craig Rohe said the new proposal is meant to fit in better with the existing neighbourhood.
“Providing a little bit of a better transition with the existing single detached dwellings to the east,” he said.
However, two main concerns came up among councillors and residents. The first had to do with stormwater drainage.
“It’s a little mind boggling what they want to do with this piece of land,” said Coun. Doug Brunton.
“To take all the stormwater to the west, in my opinion, is not appropriate.”
With elevation changes and a stormwater plan that goes against the natural flow, Brunton was among a few that raised
Rohe said there is existing capacity in stormwater infrastructure to the west. He also said the property will have to be raised, which would offset some of the elevation differences.
The second concern was access. Neighbours said they have already experienced challenges with the lone access being Fernwood to Thomson Road.
“A few years ago there was a fire on Thomson Road and with all of the emergency vehicles it blocked the entire road leading into our subdivision,” said resident Charlotte Morgan.
Coun. Alan Duthie said it is “absolutely paramount” that a second access is created.
“It’s a bit of a maze getting over there at this moment,” he said.
Most pointed to an access to South Drive as the logical choice. Staff said it’s a discussion they’ll still have to have with the developers.
Rohe acknowledged it as a possibility down the road.
“There is a future extension possible for South Drive which we’ve left an allowance for in the southeast corner of the site,” he said. Rohe said the current owners took over following the bankruptcy of the previous owner since they were the ones that held the mortgage.
They’ve since developed this new condo plan as their vision for the property. The old plan was for 67 units in the form of street townhouses and fourplexes.
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
Alan Duthie, Norfolk Ward 5 Councillor
T:7"
Ace the Norfolk County Agricultural Society mascot.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Adam Liefl of Waterford performs on the Norfolk Night Market stage on June 6.
Visitors at the June 6th Norfolk Night Market at the fairgrounds in Simcoe were able to browse indoor and outdoor vendor tables.
Ron and Louanne Matthews, on the left, and Gloria and Larry Cowan, on the right, settled in to listen to the live entertainment Saturday at the Norfolk Night Market in Simcoe.
Steven Matzig of Simcoe rides ‘the saddle’ Saturday at Norfolk Night Market.
Short-term rental, accommodation tax bylaws approved
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
There may yet be tweaks to come, but Norfolk County councillors have approved staff recommendations to develop a shortterm rentals (STR) bylaw and a municipal accommodation tax (MAT).
The contentious issues got approval at the June 11 council-in-committee meeting. With the vote, short term rental operators will need to begin registering their properties on Jan. 1, 2027 with a six-month timeline to get registered. The MAT, a four per cent fee charged to visitors staying in hotels or other STRs, will start getting collected on Jan. 1, 2028. A municipal development corporation (MDC) will be used for tourism governance and destination marketing. Both policies faced stiff opposition, which led to several discussions around the council horseshoe in recent months.
Coun. Adam Veri, one of the more vocal supporters of the MAT, said sometimes councillors need to make a decision based on what they believe is right, regardless of what they’re hearing in the community.
“I’m behind it because our businesses
need it, our communities need it, our residents need it,” he said, adding despite opposition to the MAT, many of the people he talked to were supportive of the projects the added revenue could support.
Coun. Chris Van Paassen opposed both the MAT and the STR bylaws, pointing out several typos and inconsistencies between the two related policies. Additionally, these policies are adding another layer of bureaucracy, he said, pointing out that specifically for an STR, a potential operator already has to ensure they conform with a long list of municipal and provincial regulations.
Meanwhile, Coun. Tom Masschaele supported the STR bylaw for what he said were health and safety reasons for operators, users and neighbours. However, Masschaele wasn’t supportive of the MAT at a time when costs are rising elsewhere.
“I don’t know if I’ve actually heard from an operator who supports the municipal accommodation tax, at least in the Long Point and Port Rowan area,” he said.
“People are spending an extra $40 to put gas in their car, they’re spending a lot of extra money for groceries. I’m just not sure that in this uncertain and difficult economy
that any kind of new tax is a good idea.”
However, supporters countered that the MAT will actually alleviate pressures on local taxpayers by shifting the financial burden of destination marketing and related tourism costs to the people who are visiting Norfolk and away from the residents.
“If there’s an opportunity given to us by the Province of Ontario to generate some revenue, you would be a fool not to take it,” said Coun. Linda Vandendriessche.
Revenue generated from the MAT will be split between the Municipal Development Corporation, which will use it for marketing, and the County, which can use it for tourism related infrastructure.
Staff have been supportive of the policies when bringing forward previous recommendation reports, and remained so at the June 11 meeting.
“These three initiatives (STR, MAT and MDC) create a dedicated self-sustaining visitor economy program that gives us the tools to market this community as a destination and invest in the infrastructure that supports tourism and regulates a sector that has been operating without oversight,” said Stephanie Potter, manager of corporate initiatives.
There is still some time for councillors and staff to address the typos and inconsistencies Van Paassen mentioned, as the bylaws have to come back to a regular council meeting.
Alternatives to inter-urban water supply taking shape
With a need to increase drinking water capacity in the coming years, Norfolk staff are continuing to look for alternatives to the costly inter-urban water supply project.
In an update to council at the June 11 council-in-committee, staff provided some of the more cost-effective options the County may consider. The most pressing area is Simcoe, where growth estimates suggest its water supply system could hit its firm capacity in 2027. However, Waterford and Delhi aren’t far behind, and are expected to require upgrades by the late 2030s.
“As the community continues to grow we will need to expand these systems to meet our growth targets,” said Andrew Grice, general manager of public works.
Staff provided several potential options, though Grice said at this point the preferred route for Simcoe would be to advance the Bloomsburg well field with a future connection to Waterford.
“That way the system will be able to provide both Simcoe and Waterford as they grow,” Grice said. The project wouldn’t completely solve the issue but could give them an extra four or five years.
Alongside that plan the County could look at expanding well yields at existing facilities. Grice said investigations show strong capacity at the Chapel Street and Northwest wells.
Other options for Waterford include additional wells on existing sites or new wells on new sites.
Research into options for Delhi aren’t as far along as Waterford and Simcoe, Grice said. The biggest challenge for Delhi is having a single, shallow aquifer. A new municipal well was highlighted as the preferred solution.
Recent and ongoing upgrades at Norfolk’s two lake-based systems in Port Dover and Port Rowan mean those communities most likely have capacity up to 2051.
Grice said work is continuing on the options and alternative solutions, and he expects to be back before council early in the new term.
“So while we’re not done yet, I would say we’re very optimistic with the options we have in front of us. Will we have a system as robust as the inter-urban water supply with this? Absolutely not, but will it meet our needs and be functional? Absolutely,” he said.
While cost estimates are preliminary, staff see the alternatives for Simcoe and
Waterford potentially costing $33 million, while Delhi may cost somewhere in the neighbourhood of $18 million. And while that may be a lot of money, it’s a far cry from what an IUWS system could cost. The full project is estimated to come in at $550 million in today’s dollars, with $130 million for the first phase alone.
Council has approved IUWS, but it’s contingent on receiving 66 per cent external, which continues to seem unlikely to happen, staff say.
Keeping the alternatives below $54.9 million would allow the County to proceed immediately without going over and above currently forecasted rate budget increases.
“Rates could still increase further if other pressures arose, or if alternatives were pursued but IUWS ultimately advanced at a later date. Conversely, rate trajectory could decrease if the alternatives were substantially cheaper than the IUWS plans and those IUWS plans did not proceed,” the report said.
Coun. Chris Van Paassen suggested some of the proposals in the report, namely the Bloomsburg-Simcoe-Waterford connection, could be done with IUWS in mind.
“If we connect from Bloomsburg to Simcoe and to Waterford, and you size that so it will hook on to the inter-urban water sup-
ply, if that ever comes to fruition, it’s not wasted money,” he said.
While Waterford has a lot of water, Van Paassen said a lack of redundancy is a risk should something happen to the existing supply.
He said Tillsonburg’s facing similar problems, and perhaps the two municipalities could work together on a solution.
Adam Veri, Norfolk Ward 6 Councillor
LUKE EDWARDS
Grant Haven Media
Chris Van Paassen, Norfolk Ward 4 Councillor
Historical Woodlawn still draws people
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
The 50th anniversary of Woodlawn’s restoration in Otterville was commemorated on June 6 with a very successful community High Tea.
Organized by the Woodlawn committee, and supported by the South Norwich Historical Society, the first sitting was booked solid, and although the second sitting was not as busy, they were pleased with the turnout.
It was an opportunity to showcase the historical octagonal building, raise some funds, and get out the fine china.
“The building needs a little bit of freshening up after 50 years,” said Gail Lewis, noting as soon Woodlawn was operational as an adult community centre it was turned over to the Township of Norwich, and is managed by a Woodlawn committee of council.
“So the reason we’re doing this (High Tea) is to generate a little bit more money, other than rentals, and we don’t have to go to the municipality for everything… and we have a nice community event.”
In the early years, a seniors club met at Woodlawn. Today, it is a rental facility, popular for family events including anniversaries, birthdays, showers and small weddings, as well as corporate meetings.
“The historical society meetings are all here, too,” Lewis smiled.
The single-storey, octagonal house was originally constructed by Thomas Wright in Milldale in 1861. Located on Lot 7, Concession 8, in the former Township of South Norwich, it was built on the banks of Wright’s mill pond.
“Between Norwich and Otterville… it’s just a sign on the highway now,” Lewis noted. “It fell into severe disrepair after the
Wrights, and in 1976 the committee had it moved here. It had to be cut into three sections to move.”
Woodlawn has hosted the Ontario Heritage Trust, responsible for protecting, preserving and promoting the province’s ‘built, natural and cultural heritage,’ and Lewis said they agreed the structure is an ‘architectural gem.’
Wright was influenced by an 1853 book by Dr. Orson Fowler from New York State, who praised the attributes of octagonal buildings.
“It’s more friendly because there are no long corridors, it just flows from room to room easily,” said Lewis. “It’s easier to heat from the centre. And it’s kind of a forerunner of solar, in that it benefits from the sun’s rays all throughout the day.”
The best thing about an octagonal building, she said, is that you gain about 20 per cent more floor space – compared to square or rectangular buildings – with the same amount of building materials.
Woodlawn’s floor plan was modified when it moved to Main Street West, Otterville. Originally, there was an everyday kitchen/eating area, four small bedrooms, and a formal parlour.
Today, it has two main rooms, plus the entry room and kitchen area.
“An increase in community events is vital to communities, especially small communities, to network together, to have a sense of place, instead of just being a bedroom community. These community buildings are what draw people together.”
Woodlawn also helps generate tourism, which benefits the municipality.
Geographically, South Norwich Historical Society encompasses Otterville, Springford, New Road, Hawtrey, Rock’s Mills, Rosanna, and more.
“We are a very busy historical society,”
said Lewis, noting they lease the Otterville Mill from the township. “We also operate the Otterville Mill (Main Street West) and this historical society has taken that from a derelict building into the beautiful building you see today.
“We have a summer student, and it’s going to be open Saturdays until mid-August.” On the same property as Woodlawn is the Otterville Railway Station Museum, which was expanded four years ago.
“Our summer student is in the Station today,” Lewis noted. “We have an office, accessible washroom
and kitchenette, so we can have a curator. Because without a curator, you are not really (an official) museum.”
March 10-24, 2027
The Art Expressions exhibition at Lynnwood Arts includes art created using a variety of media. Several pieces featuring white charcoal on black paper, like Amber Ryckman’s artwork shown here, are included in the exhibition.
(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTO)
Enjoying their High Tea at Woodlawn’s 50th ‘restoration anniversary’ in Otterville on June 6 are from left Angela Moyaert, Mae Leonard and Betty Smet.
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Former RCMP Staff Sergeant Keith Milner to run for mayor
the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. He then moved to Saskatchewan where he wrote his final high school exams from the barracks at just 19.
His career with the RCMP kept Milner busy and mobile - he lived in Saskatchewan for six years, but moved back to Ontario after being transferred to London. Milner then began his training in political intelligence which brought him to Toronto for 16 years. He worked for the RCMP for 39 years and since then he has moved back to Port Dover where he owns Bronte Shore Yacht Sales.
Another candidate has filed to run for mayor of Norfolk County.
Keith Milner, a Port Dover local and a former RCMP Staff Sergeant has stepped into the 2026 municipal election race.
Milner grew up in Port Dover, and was attending Port Dover Composite School when he joined
He believes that this experience, with a combined passion for his community, makes him the right candidate to represent Norfolk County.
“I'm a disciplined individual. I started training when I was 19 years old. I learned discipline. I learned responsibility, and I learned respect for the people.
I've done uniform policing, I've done drug squad. I've political intelligence.”
Milner said he has “always been interested in politics” and his background in political intelligence with the RCMP proves that to be true. His interest in municipal government stems from his discontent “with the way our money is spent.”
Canada Day
are many volunteer organizations working in the Downtown, they would like some help, but the funds are not going to infrastructure, they are going to salary.
“Council got millions of dollars to address this problem and the first thing they did was hire four people. I don’t think hiring more people is the answer.”
“We are spending way too much money on projects that do not necessarily benefit Norfolk County,” he said. “The money is not being watched carefully, and as a result, the taxes are going up, but we are not seeing the return on value.” Milner has many issues and concerns with how things are currently being handled throughout Norfolk. When honing in on Downtown Simcoe he stated, “I think we need to use the funds to better address the situation that we have downtown, we need to redirect that money. There
If elected, Milner also hopes to improve co-operation between our Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady and the municipal government.
“The fact that we had no co-operation, between municipal and provincial government is concerning. Bobbi Ann Brady should not be excluded, she should be included. She is our voice in Queen’s Park, and we lost that co-operation, not through Bobbi Ann but through our own municipal government.”
A contentious issue headed into this fall municipal election
is housing development in Norfolk County, as well as the MZO controversy in Nanticoke. While not in Norfolk, the MZO has led community members to raise concerns of potential impact on nearby Norfolk communities. Milner did not shy away from this subject stating, “What’s going on right now is not sustainable. Norfolk needs reasonable and responsible growth without outside influence.” As of June 15, the list of mayoral candidates in Norfolk includes former Councillors Noel Haydt and Doug Brunton, former Haldimand Mayor Ken Hewitt, and local real estate agent Rhyus Reeves.
Nomination packages will continue to be accepted until August 21, 2026, at 2 p.m. The clerk will review and certify the nominations by 4 p.m. on August 24, and will post them publicly thereafter. The Municipal Election is scheduled for Oct. 26, 2026.
Fire at Simcoe encampment damages former Tim Hortons building
J.P. ANTONACCI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A fire at a homeless encampment outside a shuttered Tim Hortons in downtown Simcoe destroyed the entrance to the abandoned building early on Tuesday, June 9.
Norfolk County Fire said the alarm sounded around 12:45 a.m., with firefighters finding a “well-involved” fire at the front entrance of the Water Street building.
“Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control, preventing it from spreading throughout the structure and saving the building from a total loss,” Assistant Fire Chief Dave Puype said in an email.
Firefighters searched the building to make sure no one was inside, and no injuries were reported.
In an email to The Spectator, Deputy Fire Chief James Robertson confirmed the fire started outside the building at the site of the encampment.
The exact cause of the fire is tougher to pin down given the contents of the encampment were “heavily damaged,” Robertson said.
“Encampments are often makeshift, constructed of flammable materials and can change configuration over time, which can make it challenging for investigators to accurately reconstruct conditions prior to the fire,” he said.
A burnt mattress was among the charred remains of the encampment strewn about the parking lot of the Water Street property. The smell of smoke hung in the air as caution tape around the perimeter kept pedestrians from the former coffee shop’s flame-blackened front facade.
Damage to the building is estimated at
$150,000. A hair salon attached to the former restaurant had a sign in the window saying the business was closed for the day due to the fire.
The fire investigation continues, with the OPP reviewing nearby surveillance footage, Robertson said.
“At this time, the fire is not being treated as suspicious, although that could change should new information come to light,” he said.
Tim Hortons closed its Water Street location in early 2020 after more than 30 years in business. An encampment popped up in recent months, with nearby business owners reporting drug use at the site and police being called to the area on several occasions.
Norfolk County told the Simcoe Reformer the county’s homelessness prevention team was “working closely” with local law enforcement to offer housing and social services support to residents of the encampment.
A municipal notice taped to a window cited the property owner for failing to adhere to the county’s lot maintenance bylaw.
The building is owned by TDL Group, which franchises Tim Hortons locations in Canada.
TDL Group did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The fire was “not a surprise,” said Josh Parsons, head of a citizens group called Simcoe Strong that focuses on beautifying and revitalizing downtown Simcoe.
“This is what systemic failure looks like,” Parsons said in a Facebook post, referencing the lack of capacity both locally and in nearby cities like Hamilton and London to treat the addiction and mental-health needs
of unhoused residents.
“What remains is a population of people without adequate care in a county that has some of the highest rates of youth addiction in Ontario, and no safe consumption services, no comprehensive localized support infrastructure and intervention that arrives too late, if at all,” he said.
“In the meantime, a building burned.”
Parsons called on elected officials to
commit to tackling the complex problem of harm reduction through “youth intervention, housing (and) wraparound support.”
“There is no version of this that is quick or easy or cheap,” he said.
- J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
LEAH BAUER
Advocate Contributor
Keith Milner
An overnight fire at a homeless encampment outside a shuttered Tim Hortons in downtown Simcoe caused an estimated $150,000 in damage to the building’s exterior.
(J.P. ANTONACCI PHOTO)
Happy Canada Day from your curling family!
Wishing you a day full of pride, joy, and great shots—on and off the ice!
www.simcoecurlingclub.ca | info@simcoecurlingclub.ca
Canada Day Canada Day in Port Dover
Canada Day is fast approaching. In Norfolk County, the place to be is Port Dover where there will be activities all day long on July 1st where the Port Dover Lions and Port Dover Board of Trade are promoting ‘fun for the whole family.’
• At 9 a.m., it’s the Kinsmen Soap Box Derby, on Main Street in front of The Arbor.
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• At 11 a.m., head down to the Harbour Basin to watch the Parade of Boats.
• Dog lovers will want to see the annual Dog Contest at 12 p.m. in Powell Park.
• The highlight of the day for many Canada Day enthusiasts is the massive 2 p.m. Calithumpian Parade on Main Street and St. George Street. Get their early – parking spots fill up quick.
• Later in the day, there is a concert at 7:30 p.m. and new Bouncy Castle Kidzone.
• Canada Day concludes with fireworks at 10 p.m. at the Lions Silver Lake Park.
Are you ready for Canada Day? In Norfolk County, the place to be is Port Dover where there will be activities all day long on July 1st where the Port Dover Lions and Port Dover Board of Trade are promoting ‘fun for the whole family.’ They include a soap box derby, parade of boats, dog contest, parade, concert and fireworks.
(FILE PHOTOS)
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Long Point Biosphere monitors, protects turtles
It’s turtle egg-laying season
Advocate Contributor
Turtle egg-laying season is underway, and local populations of Map, Blandings, and Snapping turtles have begun to emerge to lay their eggs all across Norfolk County.
For Lauren Nightingale of Long Point Biosphere Reserve this means that she is ‘living off of coffee’ as she works long days to ensure turtles inhabit our local ecosystems for decades to come.
Nightingale directs the Turtle Recovery Program of the Long Point Biosphere Reserve. During egg-laying season, Nightingale works tirelessly to conserve and support eggs, as well as adult turtles. Lauren does not act alone, she has volunteers throughout Norfolk County that aid her in protecting and monitoring turtles in hatching season.
Local turtle populations are threatened by habitat loss as well as by being hit on the road by automobiles. The loss of an adult turtle can have major repercussions for turtle populations. For reference, a snapping turtle must be around 20 years old before they are able to reproduce. The slow breeding of turtles makes it highly likely that a turtle will die before being able to reproduce.
\According to Turtle Guardians (a helpful online resource), a snapping turtle will have to produce 1,000-1,500 eggs in order to replace itself. In other words, only one out of 1,000-1,500 snapping turtles will live to adulthood.
Long Point Biosphere Region partners with Long Point Eco-Adventures and EcoKare International to improve the odds with their Turtle Hatchery program. The goal of the turtle hatchery is to reduce turtle nest mortality through egg incubation.
Nightingale, a trained professional in turtle recovery, does not advise that everyone attempt to interfere with turtle eggs, hatchlings, or adult turtles.
“If you see a turtle, while you may want to do something with it, the majority of the time it is best to leave it alone.”
Nightingale said it is common to see tur-
tles crossing the road, and in these cases she advises concerned community members to prioritize their own safety.
“You can save a lot more turtles when you are alive and well as opposed to risking your life on the road to save just one.”
In most cases she advises ‘allow the turtle to cross under their own power’ but she said, “if you have a snow shovel, and the confidence, it could be possible to guide the turtle in the direction it is going.”
For hatchlings, Nightingale advised that if they are any bigger than a toonie, then leave them alone, and don’t intervene any more than simply getting them across the road like you would with an adult.
“If they are about the size of a toonie, this is a hatchling that is trying to make it to water for the first time, and they do not know where the water is. It is possible that you can give them a hand to a nearby water area, but do not drive them, and ideally the water would be within a kilometre.
“Ideally, it would not be open source water. It would be preferable to bring the turtle to somewhere with vegetation so the turtle has a chance to hide from predators. Water with vegetation such as bulrushes, lily pads, or even just muck gives them a better chance at survival.”
Nightingale noted that the Front Road area is the most heavily populated with turtles and hatchlings, however turtles can be spotted anywhere.
“Anywhere along the lakefront is a huge hot spot, but it could be anywhere in Norfolk County. Turtles will be moving between irrigation ponds, so it could be in the middle of only farm land, and you can see turtles crossing the road.”
When you see an adult turtle in circumstances such as this, she says that “the turtle has lived there, that turtle will know where all of the ponds are. You don’t have to help them, just get them across the road in the direction that they are headed.”
Nightingale is almost at capacity for the eggs that will be a part of the 2026 turtle hatchery program at Eco-Adventures. While she cannot accommodate every turtle egg in the hatchery, she recommends
placing a nest protector cage over the nest once the mother has finished laying and has left the eggs. This protects the eggs from predators, and thus gives them a better chance at survival.
Turtle egg-laying season will continue
for the rest of June, and hatching is likely to begin in August. When you come across a turtle on the road, on your property, or in public, it is important to be mindful of both your safety, and what is best for the turtle.
LEAH BAUER
Lauren Nightingale, director of the Turtle Recovery Program with Long Point Biosphere Reserve, works to monitor turtles during egg laying season. Nightingale was inspecting which direction this Map turtle was headed.
(LEAH BAUER PHOTOS)
The roads of Norfolk are filled with turtles emerging to lay their eggs. Their preference to lay eggs in roadside gravel often brings the mother turtles close to dangerous cars.
Art Expressions exhibition showcases student creativity
LISA TIMPF
Advocate Contributor
Mixed media, acrylic on canvas, oil on canvas, and even paint and marker on shoes are among the works included in the Art Expressions exhibition on display at Lynnwood Arts until Saturday, June 20.
“Art Expressions: A Celebration of Youth Creativity” features the work of local high school students from the Grand Erie District School Board and the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District School Board.
The exhibition displays artwork created by students from Grades 9 to 12 attending Delhi District Secondary School, Holy Trinity Catholic School, and Valley Heights Secondary School.
As the exhibition’s description notes, the works are “bold, brilliant, and deeply personal,” with pieces reflecting the students’ “unique perspectives, passions, and voices.”
Works include self-portraits, still life, landscapes, and
clay sculpture pieces, and show an impressive level of technical competence as well as creativity.
Lynnwood held an opening event for the exhibition on Saturday, May 9. Though curator Chelsea Brant could not attend the opening, Lynnwood’s director Carole Aeschelmann provided some remarks on her behalf.
Brant’s comments praised the artists’ diversity of ideas and willingness to explore a wide range of media. She also noted that the lessons learned through making art extend far beyond the classroom, and encouraged the artists to continue to stay connected to Lynnwood.
Art teachers from each school selected the pieces to be included. Lynnwood’s curator then determined how best to display the pieces for the exhibition.
The Art Expressions exhibition is on display until June 20 at Lynnwood Arts, 21 Lynnwood Avenue, Simcoe. Lynnwood Arts is open Wednesday to Friday 12-4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Haddasah Unger’s acrylic on canvas piece “Clocks” is included in Lynnwood’s Art Expressions exhibition. The exhibition displays works created by area high school students.
(GINETTE PIEPER PHOTOS)
Abigail Unger’s “European Robin,” an acrylic on paper piece, is among the artwork featured in Lynnwood’s Art Expressions exhibition.
Marissa Sims’ mixed media on board piece is one example of the “colour wheel” artwork included in the Art Expressions exhibition on display at Lynnwood Arts until June 20.
Natalie Parker’s oil on canvas piece is included in the Art Expressions exhibition. The exhibition, which features the work of local high school students, is on display at Lynnwood Arts until June 20, 2026.
Samantha Rixmann’s oil on canvas painting is among the works on display at Lynnwood Arts. Lynnwood’s Art Expressions exhibition spotlights the creative talents of local high school students.
100 Women Who Care Norfolk gives back to ag workers
workers adapt to the changing Canadian seasons and living conditions.
Huron Farmworkers Ministry was recently the successful recipient of $19,100 from 100 Women Who Care Norfolk.
Huron Farmworkers Ministry was born from a simple but profound Christian calling: to accompany migrant agricultural workers with dignity, compassion, and respect while they live and work in Canada, often far away from their homes and families for many months at a time.
These men and women make an invaluable contribution to our agricultural communities and to the food security of our country. Behind every harvest there are human stories of sacrifice, courage, faith, and perseverance. The Ministry will use these funds to help the Norfolk farmworkers with essential daily needs such as nutritious food, seasonal clothing, hygiene products, winter jackets, sweaters, T-shirts, blankets, and other necessities that help
Each Thursday and Friday the Ministry provides community meals to the migrant agricultural workers at the Trinity Anglian Church in Simcoe.
Father Enrique Martinez emphasizes, “These gatherings offer a place where workers from different farms can come together to share experiences and build friendships.
Coming together regularly helps to positively support the workers with emotional and mental well-being. We strive to make the farmworkers feel that they are valued members of our community. A simple gesture such as “hello or hola” can make the workers feel welcome and appreciated in the Norfolk community.”
Since 2014, 100 Women Who Care Norfolk has donated more than $780,000 to 48 charities helping thousands of Norfolk residents. More information can be found at www.100womenwhocarenorfolk.com.
Salvation Army hosts fundraising food drive
Volunteers and employees of the Salvation Army Simcoe held a fundraiser at Sobeys on Saturday, May 30th to help to keep the shelves stocked at the local food bank.
Sobey’s works alongside the food bank to provide essential food donations all year long. Donations provided by Sobeys include pre-packaged bags of essentials customers can purchase in the store. These donations are then collected by The Salvation Army, and given to those in need.
Local Salvation Army Lieutenant Josh Edwards expressed how needed these donations are in the summer months, “we see an increase in the community members which rely on the food bank during the summer.”
Edwards attributed this increase partly due to “children being home from school, and needing more food.” The summer months can affect families who may rely in
part on school food programs for portions of their children’s diets.
In addition to the greater need for food, this is also the time of year when the shelves at local food banks begin to become empty.
“In the summertime there is a greater need for supplies, but the needs of the community are not matched by the food donations coming in during this time of year as most of our donations come in the winter and fall,” said Edwards.
Any and all food provided is very appreciated by both the team at The Salvation Army, as well as community members who use the foodbank. The May 30th fundraiser made a note of requesting canned pastas and peanut butter. These items are useful as they provide sustenance but do not require a full kitchen for preparation. This benefits those who may have precarious living situations and inconsistent access to a kitchen.
If you missed the fundraiser at Sobeys, donations are also accepted at The Salvation Army office in Simcoe at 184 Colborne Street North, Monday-Friday.
Fourth annual Hike for Hospice draws big crowds
Silver Lake Park in Port Dover was full of eager hikers as the fourth annual Hike for Hospice in support of Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice (NHCH) brought hundreds of community members together on Sunday, June 7.
Funds raised at the Hike for Hospice go toward the construction and eventual running of the hospice, which will be the first of its kind in Haldimand-Norfolk, as well as ongoing bereavement and grief support for community members affected by loss.
Andrea Binkle, Executive Director of NHCH, noted that some of those in attendance may have “already received some of our services” or potentially, “they have received services from the neighbouring hospices.” Binkle believes that experiences with NHCH services, or seeing the work of other hospices, motivates people.
“We want a dignified death for everybody, and the participants today likewise want a good death for everybody.”
This year's event brought out 340 hikers, with over 100 registering for the event that morning. The combined effort raised $27,000, along with an announcement that
an anonymous donor gave $1 million to support the cause.
Over 30 volunteers worked to make sure that the Hike for Hospice went smoothly. Binkle said preparations began all the way back in January.
The purpose behind the hard work and effort of the volunteers, organizers, and participants was not lost on MPP Bobbi Ann Brady, who told the gathered crowd at the start of the event, “It's more than just raising money. It's about making sure families can spend precious moments together and continue to make memories.
“To the organizers, volunteers, sponsors,
donors, and every single one of you who are lacing up your shoes, I extend a heartfelt thank you. You are helping turn a longheld dream into a reality that will last for generations to come.” Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice touches the community in many ways, including through bereavement support for adults, children, as well as anticipatory grief support further information about groups and events can be found online at: https://norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca/bereavement-support/. All information about NHCH, making donations, and upcoming events can be found at: https://norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca/.
KATHY CASKENETTE
For the Advocate
Pictured from left are Maria Ena Mairena, Andrea Sepulveda - HFM Simcoe, Sue Goble, Beth Redden, Michelle Grummett - 100 Women, Amanda Longmoore - HFM Board member, Father Enrique Martinez, Diana Rueda – HFM Coordinator, and Kathryn Duwyn – 100 Women Who Care Norfolk member presenting $19,100 from 100 Women Who Care Norfolk to Huron Farmworkers Ministry.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
LEAH BAUER Advocate Contributor
From left, Tina Rigglesford, Salvation Army Lieutenant Chesney Edwards, and Lieutenant Josh Edwards greeted customers at Sobeys with lemonade and friendly smiles as they hosted their May 30th food drive.
(LEAH BAUER PHOTO)
LEAH BAUER Advocate Contributor
The unusual contrasts in Monac
OH,PLACESTHE WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
The Principality of Monaco is truly a country of contrasts. But those contrasts don’t fit into the usual categories implied by that cliché. This is not a place of disparity between rich and poor, nor a country with a variety of striking landscapes.
The contrasts here are perhaps unique to this tiny nation. We encountered them as we were hosted on a Mediterranean Sea cruise aboard the Viking Sea, one of Viking’s small, ocean-going vessels.
First of all, there is no contrast between rich and poor, here, because to live in Monaco, you have to be rich. Our guide simply stated, “So many millionaires and billionaires are living here!”
As we explored Monaco on foot, our guide explained that virtually all the workers commute from somewhere else. About 40,000 arrive each morning, and return home, outside the tiny nation’s borders, each night.
That number of commuters presents one of the contrasts– because the out-of-country workers slightly outnumber the people
who actually live in Monaco, a nation with a total population of only 39,000.
It gets odder – of those 39,000 people, only 9,000 are passport-carrying citizens. The rest are “residents”, people who have demonstrated they have sufficient financial assets to live in this country.
This is an independent nation with a population only slightly larger than the city of Stratford, Ontario. To carry on that comparison for a minute, Stratford, an important Canadian tourist attraction, draws about 600,000 visitors a year. Monaco’s annual visitor count reaches seven million.
Some of those visitors arrive on mega-yachts. Others arrive in the kinds of automobiles that cause gearheads to do triple-takes.
Many are taxied in – but by helicopter – from nearby Nice airport. Nice, of course, is in France, but that’s not surprising, because
Monaco covers only 2.2 square kilometers. So, if you are standing anywhere in Monaco, and looking up at the hillsides above the country, you are looking at France, or, to the immediate east, at Italy.
Monaco is the second-smallest independent nation in the world (only the Vatican is smaller), but there are four administrative districts in this 2.2 square kilometer place. The most famous of which is Monte Carlo, home to the Monte Carlo Casino, which draws heavy-duty gamblers from all over the world, and features in many movies, including James Bond epics.
But here’s another unique thing in this country of contrasts –while the 30,000 “residents” are welcome to gamble in the casino, the 9,000 citizens are forbidden to do so. Which seems to suggest there may be an inherent caution about gambling in this country
edge that while Albert and his wife, Charlene, Princess of Monaco, have twin children, he is also the admitted father of two other children, born to two other women.
And when it comes to the twins, another contrast is apparent. This apparently modern country, which hosts Formula One race cars, and sundry state-of-the-art mega-yachts, is run on rules that date back to the Middle Ages. The twins are Alexandre Grimaldi and Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, but the heir to the throne is inevitably Alexandre, because when it comes to royalty in Monaco, males rule. (And neither of Albert’s other two children should even dream about inheriting the throne because in this uber-conservative Roman Catholic nation, that is unthinkable.)
which is built on that very thing.
And that is the truth – there is no income tax in Monaco. The country runs on the income from the casino, as well as value added tax (a hefty number when visitors number in the millions).
That hasn’t always been the case. Monaco has been ruled for seven centuries by the Grimaldi family. They conquered it, and have run the nation ever since.
At times during those centuries, the country verged on backruptcy. But in 1865, the royal family founded the casino – and in doing so, solved the nation’s money problems in perpetuity.
Today’s ruler is Prince Albert II. And therein lies another intriguing contrast. Albert, and virtually all Monégasques (the name for citizens) is devoutly Roman Catholic. In the heart of the community – discreetly distant from the casino but near the royal palace – is the modern, Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate. Pope Leo XIV, made an apostolic visit to Monaco earlier this year. So, Monaco is Catholic to its core.
And yet it is common knowl-
Let’s go back to the cathedral, and to Albert’s daughter, for a moment. Because the girl’s middle name is no accident – her grandmother was the legendary Hollywood star, Grace Kelly, who left her thriving acting career while still in her 20’s to marry Prince Ranier III. They were Albert’s parents.
Both are buried in the cathedral. Visitors can stroll behind the high altar, to view a semi-circle of Grimaldi family tombs, the latest being those of Grace, who died in a car crash in 1982, and Ranier, who passed away in 2005.
We pondered, for a moment, this contrast between the glamour of Hollywood and the antiquated medieval reality of this unusual country. And then we strolled to a scenic lookout to view $500-million yachts and the route of the Monaco Grand Prix. And we quickly realized: there is no other nation like this on the face of the earth.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and Past-President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@ golden.net.
A statue of the late Prince Grace, in the beautiful gardens dedicated in her honour.
The Monaco Grand Prix runs beside the harbour; stands are set up along the route.
Although its population is small, Monaco's area is even smaller, so the streets are typically narrow and crowded.
The marina in Monaco hosts multiple mega-yachts. The famed casino is the building with the arches and the dark roof, above the right-hand boats.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
625 West St., Simcoe (at the corner of Hillcrest Rd.) simcoelighting.ca
519-428-9927
OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM & SATURDAY 9AM-3PM
7:00 p.m
Riversyde 83 Friday Nights at the Café welcomes Serena Reimer of Serena Reimer Nutrition on Friday, June 19 at 7:00 p.m. for a free wellness presentation, Are You Metabolically Healthy? Building Habits That Transform Health. Attendees will learn about the connection between nutrition and overall wellness, how food can support the body's natural healing processes, and practical ways to build healthy habits that promote strength and long-term health.
Riversyde 83 | 83 Sydenham Street, Simcoe
SATURDAY, JUNE 20
U E LOYALIST DAY CELEBRATION
11:30 a.m - 4:00 p.m
The Grand River Branch United Empire Loyalists' Association of Canada invites everyone to "CELEBRATING YOUR U. E. LOYALIST ANCESTRY". A special celebration and research day will include a potluck luncheon, presentation of certificates, displays, book sales, researching opportunities and a flag raising. Everyone is invited to attend and participate in this very special event.
Walsingham Hall, 2070 Main Street | Walsingham, ON
SUNDAY, JUNE 21
FATHER'S DAY 1/2 CHICKEN DINNER BBQ
Serving at 5:30 p.m
Tickets in advance from the Legion Bar. Cost: $20.00 per ticket. There will be a Father's Day Draw and For Men Only Draws.
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford FRIDAY, JUNE 26
WINGS & KARAOKE
Wing sales start at 4:45 p.m - Serving at 5:00 p.m
Eat in or take out (No Phone Orders) Karaoke to follow in the Club Room. Wings $13.00 /lb | Fries $4.00 | Onion Rings $ 5.00 (CASH ONLY)
Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford ICE CREAM BINGO
7:00 p.m Riversyde 83 Friday Fun Nights presents Ice
NANTICOKE COMMUNITY HALL VENDOR EVENT
10:00 a.m – 3:00 p.m
Shop local and support local at the Nanticoke Community Hall Vendor Event! Browse a variety of vendors both inside and outside, discover great deals at the community yard sale, and bid on unique items in the silent auction. FREE ADMISSION. Donations to the Hall Fund are happily accepted. For a day of shopping, bargains, and community spirit, everyone is welcome!
Nanticoke Community Hall | 38 Rainham Road
MONDAY, JULY 13
DELHI & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY - ANNUAL POTLUCK SUPPER
8:00 a.m - 5:00 p.m
Monday July 13th/26 at the gazebo behind the Delhi arena (new location). Set up at 5:30 pm. Bring your favourite dish to share, plate and utensils. Also, a special thank you to those who weathered the rain from our community and surrounding areas for supporting the society's plant sale. Very much appreciated.
Gazebo behind the Delhi arena (new location)
TUESDAY, JULY 14
DELHI & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY - GREENHOUSE & GARDEN CENTRE TOUR
5:00 p.m
GREENHOUSE & GARDEN CENTRE tour at Creek View Acres, on Johnson Rd., Brantford, Ont. Tuesday July 14th/26. Meeting at the Delhi Friendship Senior Centre at 5:00 pm. Car pooling available. For more info call Alice @ 519-879-6770.
Meet at the Delhi Friendship Senior Centre
THURSDAYS IN JUNE
CORNHOLE
7:00 p.m
The Royal Canadian Legion is hosting weekly cornhole nights on Thursdays in June (except the fourth Thursday) beginning at 7:00 pm at the Waterford Legion. Community members of all skill levels are welcome to join in the free fun.
INGERSOLL COUNTRY MUSIC JAMBOREE
1:00 p.m - 4:00 p.m
Spring into the Ingersoll Country Music Jamboree meeting every other Friday 1-4 p.m. at Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St. S. Ingersoll. Join us, walk ins welcome. Qualifications - love 50-70's country music. Perform, listen, dance & enjoy! May 15 & 29, June 5 & 19.
EVERY FRIDAY EVENING
CATCH THE ACE
4:30 a.m- 7:30 p.m (Draw at 7:45 pm)
Win over $21,000.00 (LIC #RAF 14505443)! Tickets are available for $5 each, 3 for $10, or 6 for $20. Proceeds support the Norfolk Haldimand Hospice, Norfolk General Hospital Foundation, and Rotary Norfolk Youth Scholarships. Simcoe Legion, West Street, Simcoe
THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
LYNN RIVER PROBUS CLUB
10:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m
Our retired and semi-retired members enjoy diverse interest groups, friendship and fellowship. We have interesting speakers at our monthly meetings as well as time to socialise.Current and prospective members are welcome to join us at the Army, Navy & Air Force Club, Simcoe, which is on the corner of Water St. and Culver St. Simcoe. Enter via Culver St. For more information, please visit our website at: lynnriverprobus239.com or email lynnriverprobus239@gmail.com.
SECOND SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH
COURTLAND COUNTRY OPEN MIC JAM Music starts at 1:00 p.m | Dinner at 5:00 p.m All welcome!
Courtland Community Centre | 272 Main St., Courtland, ON
LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH
OPEN JAM
Starting at 5:00 p.m (Until Sold Out)
Everyone is welcome to bring an instrument or just come out and listen to the music. Free event For More Information call the Legion at 519-443-5588 or www. teetervillelegionbranch526.ca
The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario
I
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LENNY
Lenny is an 8-month-old Golden Retriever with a fun-loving, energetic personality. He loves people of all ages, gets along well with other dogs, and enjoys playtime, cuddles, and making new friends. Because of his puppy enthusiasm, a home with older children would be ideal. Lenny is smart, eager to please, and has been responding well to training in rescue. He is looking for a committed family who will continue to provide guidance, structure, and training as he grows into an amazing companion.
www.petfinder.com
Word Search
CANADIAN ICONS
CANADIAN ICONS
TRUE NORTH TASTES
1. No-bake dessert named after a city in British Columbia
2. Prairie fruit used in pies and jams
4. Popular dessert at Canadian family gatherings
5. Key ingredient in poutine
6. Popular Canadian potato chip flavour
9. Cheese commonly produced in Canada
10. Essential topping for poutine
12. Breakfast favourite often topped with maple syrup
14. Sweet dessert wine produced from frozen grapes
15. Grain traditionally harvested in parts of Canada
17. Buttery cookie often enjoyed with tea
3. Popular Canadian appetizer or brunch item
7. Fried pastry treat often enjoyed at festivals
8. Tree featured on Canada's flag
11. Fish harvested on Canada's coasts
12. French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds
13. Tart stalk used in pies and crisps
16. Sweet Canadian topping made from tree sap
19. Tart berries often grown in Canada
20. Dumplings enjoyed by many Canadian families
21. Summer vegetable often served at barbecues
23. Chip flavour that combines several seasonings
24. Classic Canadian pastry with a sweet filling
Answers found on page 27
No-bake dessert named after
Prairie fruit used in
Popular dessert at Canadian family
gatherings French fries topped with gravy and cheese ingredient in poutine
Popular Canadian potato chip flavour
Cheese commonly produced in Canada
Essential topping for poutine
Breakfast favourite often topped with maple syrup
Sweet dessert wine produced from frozen grapes
Grain traditionally harvested in parts of
Buttery cookie often enjoyed with tea
Canadian topping made from tree sap
For Sale: Shade Trees; Maples, Oaks, Birch, Beech, Honey Locusts, Elms, Magnolia, Hydrangea Tree, Tulip Tree, Crab apples, Ivory Silk Lilac, Chanticleer Pear, Golden Weeping Willows and more. Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarine, Blueberry, Haskap etc.
Lots of healthy strong Spruce, Cedars and White Pine for your privacy hedges and windbreaks. Hundred of flowering shrubs. Reg Hours 7am- 6pm Mon-Sat at Martins Nursery c/o Emanuel Martin. 42661 Orangehill Rd., Wroxeter, ON
HIRIN
I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi or any pop company. Brewery items - Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, wristwatches, pocket watches, old fruit jars - Beaver Star, Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and
• 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).
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