It wasn’t a decision councillors were happy to make, but at the same time, it could have been a lot worse.
“We have to unfortunately swallow this very difficult pill,” said Coun. Tom Masschaele at the Oct. 31 Norfolk County budget meeting, before councillors approved the 2025 water and wastewater rate budget, which will see the average household in Norfolk pay an extra $14.08 a month for water.
“No one’s happy about this but it is our responsibility to make tough decisions,” said Mayor Amy Martin, who called it “the price of neglect” and result of years of not investing in infrastructure like they should.
Significant capital cost requirements are driving the increases. Even with rate increases, staff and councillors have acknowledged that Norfolk can handle the hundreds of millions of dollars in capital projects that’s going to be required for water and wastewater over the next decade.
The level of capital investment required for water/ wastewater cannot be accommodated without the support from higher levels of government,” said Amy Vesprini, supervisor, financial initiatives and planning for the county, referring to Norfolk’s need to get financial support from upper levels of government.
Despite the doom and gloom, the report was, in a sense, a good news item. Thanks to the $16.5 million grant the county received through the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund earlier this year, staff was able to substantially reduce the proposed increase on the wastewater side.
“While rates will still increase in the long-term due
the map. I always say, ‘you’ve got to sell yourself.’”
Everyone is always welcome at Army Navy Air Force #255 in Simcoe.
That is the message Bruce Wilson, President of ANAF 255, wants to share with residents of Norfolk County.
“Everyone,” he stressed.
That is one of the reasons they try to keep their monthly meals - open to the public - at a reasonable cost.
“I know we can charge more (than $14) for a fish dinner, but you know, it’s not always about making money. We do have the dinners to raise funds, but the other reason is to get people in here. We want people to
know we are here, that we exist. All I’m trying to do is promote ourselves – we have to get it out there.”
Army Navy Air Force #255 first formed in Simcoe in 1936, at a small house on Kent Street. But ANAF’s origins go back to 1840 when Queen Victoria gave a charter to an Army-Navy Veterans in Canada unit in Montreal. The organization added air force during the Second World
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Norfolk water bill is going up $14.08 a month
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 to inflation and other major wastewater capital projects creating debt pressures, over the next three years staff anticipated that a 9.4 per cent reduction in future increase requirements can be achieved (in contrast to the previously communicated rate forecast),” a report on the grant said.
That’ll likely be cold comfort for the ratepayers, and the increase was still a hard one for councillors to accept. Alan Duthie asked if there were any opportunities to find more savings.
“It’s really difficult to grasp,” he said.
General manager of corporate service Heidy VanDyk, said staff went over things line by line and considered every option possible. She pointed out the operating side is actually seeing a decrease.
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manufacturing industry and instructing at Conestoga College in the Hearing Instrument Specialist program. Debbie’s comprehensive experience and dedication is reflected in her exceptional hearing health care.
“I am quite confident that they (staff) have done a very thorough review,” she said.
“I have a great deal of confidence in the process… Where cost savings could be found, they have been found.”
CAO Al Meneses said staff and council must continue to push upper levels of government for more financial support.
“We have to continue to deliver that message loud and clear,” he said.
“There’s no getting away from the fact we’ve got aging infrastructure, we’ve got a massive amount of assets in our water/ wastewater inventory that needs to be replaced.”
The estimated $14.08 a month increase is based on a standard average of 12 cubic metres per month. Vesprini pointed out different households use different amounts. Smaller homes with fewer people could use less. For instance, Vesprini said she averages around six cubic metres. The staff proposal includes a net outflow of money from the reserves. That’s been a trend for a couple years, said Jacob Graham, supervisor, financial initiatives and planning, who cautioned against continuing that trend for too long.
And with current trends, Norfolk could soon hit a notorious milestone in Ontario.
“Without monumental changes to funding for rate related capital projects, Norfolk County may become the municipality with the highest rate debt outstanding per capita across the entire province,” he said.
Norfolk Coun. Tom Masschaele, Ward 1
Norfolk raises $500K for mammography machine
The head of the charitable wing of Norfolk General Hospital knew Norfolk residents cared about women’s health. But even she was surprised by how quickly the community raised $500,000 to buy a high-tech mammography machine for the Simcoe hospital.
“This is significantly quicker than we thought we were going to be able to,” said Emma Rogers, CEO of the hospital foundation, noting the fundraising campaign started in April.
“It was really incredible to see what happened. This really was community-led and supported.”
The hospital announced on Oct. 11 the new X-ray machine will be delivered early next year.
“Our new mammogram system features 3D imaging, providing a clearer and more detailed view of breast tissue, allowing for earlier detection and reducing the need for repeat tests,” hospital spokesperson Aaron Gautreau said in an email.
With the new system, the hospital can offer “less invasive” biopsies and provide more services in-house, letting patients stay close to home, Gautreau added.
Norfolk General’s current mammography machine is 16 years old and nearing the end of its life, Rogers said. But the hospital will use both “for as long as we possibly can” so more patients can be screened.
“With the screening age dropping to 40, for right now, we’re going to be able to have at least two mammograms running at the same time,” said Rogers.
“It’s going to allow us to early detect
breast cancer in a larger population.”
Norfolk General performs an average of 3,600 mammograms per year through the Ontario Breast Screening Program, and that number is expected to grow now that the province has expanded access to younger women.
“The sooner that we can get these women through our four walls, the sooner we’re going to be able to help support them,” Rogers said, noting one in eight Canadian
County’s non-union staff to get 3% pay bump
Advocate Correspondent
To keep up with the rising cost of living, Norfolk’s non-union staff will be getting a three per cent pay bump in the new year.
Norfolk County council approved a report at a special council meeting held Oct. 31 that recommended the pay increase, which aligns with the three per cent costof-living increase unionized staff are receiving.
Norfolk’s Talent Management Strategy sets a target of having Norfolk County in the 60th percentile of employee pay levels, relative to an approved comparator group.
“In order to maintain competitiveness with other municipalities, Norfolk County needs to ensure we are approving economic increases that reflect our desire to reach the 60th percentile as approved in the Talent Management Strategy,” the re -
port said.
Nearby municipalities have approved, or are considering, non-union cost-of-living increases in the range of two to four per cent. Haldimand has approved a 3.5 per cent raise, while Elgin and Oxford counties are projecting increases of three per cent.
According to the report, the adjustment “results in an expense increase of approximately $562,000 in the 2025 Levy Operating Budget and $44,000 in the 2025 Rate Operating Budget.” Around $31,000 of the increase occurs in fully funded departments, and the report notes the levy impact may be further reduced by partial funding and cost share agreements.
Non-union positions include the senior leadership team, departmental and operations leader positions, as well as some human resource staff.
women are diagnosed with breast cancer and early detection significantly raises the odds of survival.
That reality prompted individuals, corporations, service clubs and all three levels of government to contribute to the new machine, Rogers said.
“Supporting women’s health was at the forefront and a priority for a lot of people here. This is showing our community that when we rally together, we can really up -
lift this hospital.”
Residents previously contributed to a new CT scanner in recent years, among other specialty equipment not funded by the province.
“That is a big piece that we really need to debunk - we are still reliant on community support, especially for equipment, because government actually doesn’t fund that,” Rogers said. “So we cannot exist and provide these services without our foundation and without our supporters.”
J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
Twilight Quilters
LUKE EDWARDS
J.P. ANTONACCI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
(NORFOLK GENERAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION PHOTO)
Norfolk General Hospital president and CEO Todd Stepanuik, far left, with hospital staff at the hospital foundation’s inaugural Heart of Health Care gala in April, a fundraiser for the new mammography machine.
Norfolk General Hospital Foundation CEO Emma Rogers.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
The Twilight Quilters of Norfolk County - a group of very talented and generous women - donate fabulous quilts to Indwell residents in Simcoe. “The quilts mean so much to the tenants,” says Jean Montgomery. From left are Robert Leonard, Indwell tenant; Diane Luke, Twilight Quilter; and Montgomery, Indwell staff.
Dancing around politics with Americans
By Stewart Grant
It’s been over a year since I’ve set foot in the United States, but last week Laurie and I attended a travel industry event in South America that was comprised of about 70% Americans and 30% Canadians.
There wasn’t much political talk on this trip. Everyone is gen-
enjoyed a wonderful sightseeing day with a couple from Michigan and another couple from Tampa. These were four of the nicest people that we could ever hope to meet. One of the gentlemen is not only a travel agent owner but also a pastor. At lunch, he opened the door to a political discussion by
and gave an example of how I worried about the U.S. pulling out of NATO and how that could affect Canada at some future point.
The table seemed to agree that NATO was a good thing, and our Tampa friend said, “Yeah, I don’t think he [Trump] would really do that, it’s a lot of bluster with him.” He added that Trump had been President once before and everything hadn’t fallen apart.
“He won’t have any guardrails this time though,” I replied. “All those people who kept him in line last time won’t be there this time around and he’ll surround himself with yes-men.”
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“He will still have to get things through the Senate and the House,” the Tampa man replied. I thought about pursuing it further by saying that Trump could circumvent those checks by issuing Executive Orders, but decided it was enough. The Michigan man also resigned, saying that he already voted anyways.
We then talked generally about
the election impacting the travel industry, as they are finding that some of their clients are pushing back their decisions until after the votes are counted. I joked, saying, “Maybe you’ll see a surge of people wanting to buy one-way tickets to Canada.”
Overall, we had a nice and pleasant conversation, and while we soon shifted to other topics like family and vacations, I couldn’t help but privately assume that our new friends probably voted for team “R” like they probably have done in the past. After all, Fox News has warned them about the dangers that Kamala Harris, and the millions of dangerous illegal immigrants, would inflict on the nation.
At dinner earlier in the trip, we sat with a couple from Florida (formerly from Indiana) who felt they were in a safe space speaking with two Canadians and shared their fear and distaste regarding a possible Trump presidency. They talked about the abortion issue and how it worried them. They
also talked about January 6th and how Trump was a threat to democracy.
Our third and final political discussion was on a shore excursion in Brazil with five Canadians and two Puerto Ricans. The woman representing Puerto Rico tourism was telling us all about the positive attributes of their region and I joked that “wow, it sounds much nicer in Puerto Rico than that comedian at the Trump rally made it out to be a few days ago.” Despite being a representative of Puerto Rico, she had not heard of the controversial comments. Everyone gets their news from different places I suppose.
Although political discussions were rare at the travel industry retreat, the few that we had reinforced the fact that this is a truly divided country, with people basing their voting decisions on completely different information, or in many cases lack of information.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Norfolk County’s financial history from 2001
How the county got into its current
I read that Norfolk County Council has asked staff to develop a detailed report regarding the county's fiscal circumstances and how they arrived in their current financial bind.
I can answer that question without incurring staff time and expense; too few tax/ratepayers to service a large geographic area. The population of Norfolk County is roughly 65,000 and the size of Norfolk is about 1,600 square kilometres of land.
Norfolk County has never had the financial resources to properly service its tax/ratepayers adequately. Simply put, if you live in a more compact area it costs less to provide municipal services. You tell me which of these two examples would be cheaper and more efficiently operated? 1. A municipal water and sewer system in a single municipality servicing some 100,000 people, like the city of Brantford, or 2. A municipal water and sewer system servicing five separate systems for only about half the population of the county or about 32,000 people as exists in Norfolk?
financial bind
Another example, when the municipality went from being a two tier regional system to a single upper tier system, staff across the county were paid at different levels. You can guess that wages did not go down to the lowest levels but in fact went up to the highest. Levels of service were different throughout the county and again which way did they go? You guessed it, up.
Simcoe’s standard of urban road construction included paved roads, water, sewer, drainage, curbs, sidewalks, trees and streetlights whereas in other urban communities this standard was lower in many cases. But after amalgamation all urban road standards increased to the same level of Simcoe. This has been a factor in contributing to much higher costs for urban road reconstruction and added to the road reserves being in the red. There are many other examples showing why Norfolk County is always behind the financial eight ball.
The general public absolves themselves of any responsibility for higher costs resulting from their demands for municipal services. But when a
new rule or regulation is implemented by the federal, provincial or local government generally it adds more cost; the need for another employee to administer it and increased costs to provide the new service.
The structure of Norfolk County needs to be reviewed since its creation over 23 years ago. Once again the province needs to be involved but this time designed to work and not pit one ward against the other. When you always have too few dollars in a one-size fits all budget you end up having ward councillors fighting for their slice of the pie which has become slimmer every year.
There is no sense in blaming anyone for the operational structural design of Norfolk. If the Council is serious about reducing costs, servicing the community properly, becoming more efficient and effective in the use of both tax and rate dollars then options for a new structure must be assessed. It won’t be fixed by navel gazing.
Peter Black, Norfolk County resident
Delhi BIA’s 9th annual Halloween Walk of Treats
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Oliver and Emmy Halashewski, and Haliey and Renee Edwards picked up Halloween treats during Delhi BIA’s annual Walk of Treats. Max and Andi Lauzus dressed up as Sonic and a witch for Delhi BIA’s 9th annual Halloween Walk of Treats on Oct. 26.
Colson Demoor popped up in Delhi for Delhi BIA’s 9th annual Halloween Walk of Treats.
Eddie Owen got a taste of Halloween during Delhi BIA’s annual Walk of Treats.
Alyjah Webb attended Delhi BIA’s Halloween Walk of Treats as a bumblee. More than 40 Delhi locations handed out treats on Oct. 26.
Midway provider announces new ticket system for 2025
the business.
World's Finest Shows will make the jump from paper to electronic ticket systems for the 2025 season.
Barry Jamieson, president of World’s Finest Shows, based in Nanticoke, is looking forward to the change and believes the new systems will bring a simpler approach to the ticket selling game for midway rides.
“The customer will be able to upload as many ride credits as they want on their attractions card and they can take that to the ride they want,” said Jamison. “Ride operators swipe the electronic cards, and the rides accept the credits. There will be no more ticket sellers. We’ve seen this system around and now we are going to get involved in it.”
Barry says that working with two sons and grandsons is the most rewarding experience for him working as a premier midway owner.
Barry’s sons Patrick and Stacey Jamieson are tasked with taking over the business once Barry retires soon and plan to uphold their father’s vision and keep things the same for the most part.
Patrick Jamieson says he’s ready to take on the mantle along with his brother and looks forward to what the future holds for
“Coming to Norfolk County Fair, we moved 44 semi loads. It’s a challenge to open for Tuesday morning but we uphold that date,” said Patrick. “The preparations are made around two to three weeks in advance, taking 28 hired trucks to move the show down to Simcoe.
“One of the most rewarding aspects I get from this job is seeing the kids smile. Those smiles and the enjoyment they get from this show is the highlight.”
Patrick’s 18-year-old son, Parker Jamieson, has been helping run the operation for his entire life and says he’s learned many skills and plans to continue working with his family for the foreseeable future.
Barry has also been in the business his entire life with his longtime friend and business partner, Jim Conklin of Conklin Shows, who passed away in March 2023.
“It was a big shock when I lost Jim. He was a different kind of guy and was always thinking of stuff nobody would have thought of,” said Barry.
Barry says that he owes a lot of his knowledge and expertise of midway operation to Conklin who also mentored him for many years.
World’s Finest Shows travels and works with over 50 shows a year and will continue to innovate their attractions and rides to keep people entertained.
ALEX HUNT
Advocate Contributor
(ALEX HUNT PHOTO)
World’s Finest Shows rides in storage.
Patrick and Parker Jamieson of World’s Finest Shows.
Loading up some of World’s Finest Shows’ historic trucks.
(ALEX HUNT PHOTO)
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
World’s Finest Shows has been an integral part of the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show for decades.
Hats for Kids project continues in Norfolk
info@simcoeadvocate.com
Hats and hats and more hats filled Maryanne Kersten’s basement.
Her pool table was full of hundreds of mittens of all sizes.
Hats for Kids women have brought in what they made during the year from Oct. 1, 2023 to Oct. 1, 2024. In total 1,561 hats and 664 mittens. And 100 baby hats made by Rosemary Erdelac.
The hats and mittens have been bagged and sorted for boys and girls, and are ready to be delivered to local schools and organizations as soon as it gets cold.
Contributors included Mary VanOoteghem, Gaynor Wood, Dianne Kersten, Simone Coppens, Juliet VanLeuvenhage, Jackie Wulleman, Dorothy VanHooren, Maryanne Kersten, Rosemary Erdelac, Darlene Casier, and Jan Grinceicius.
Doreen has retired from making mittens, says Maryanne Kersten, and Hats for Kids will miss her and her wonderful mittens.
“Thank you!”
Anyone that would like to knit mittens for school children would be most welcome, she added.
Margaret is still making crochet lap blankets from small leftover balls of wool. These go to the nursing home or to people who are sick at home. If you know someone who needs one, ‘please let us know’ (email maryannekersten@icloud.com).
“Many thanks to Catholic Women’s League in Langton for their donation towards wool,” says Kersten. “To the people who help us with wool, we thank you. It really helps to keep this project going.
“To the ladies that knit for this project, we change from year to year as they get older, but 15 years and they are still knitting.
“Also for the teacher and people who help out delivering to the school, bags of hats and mittens, we thank you too.
“Have a great day year everyone and stay warm.”
Norfolk County introduces new speed limit areas
ADVOCATE STAFF
info@simcoeadvocate.com
Norfolk County is committed to enhancing road safety and ensuring a consistent driving experience for all residents and visitors.
New speed limits are coming to the following areas:
• Long Point: All streets will have a speed limit of 40 km/h, unless otherwise posted. The Long Point Causeway will remain at 50 km/h.
• Erie Boulevard, Long Point: 40 km/h from the May long weekend to Labour Day (tourist season) and
50 km/h from Labour Day to the May long weekend (off-season).
• Villa Nova Road, Bealton: From Norfolk County Road 19 to 400 meters south, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
• Cockshutt Road, Bills Corners: From 400 meters north of Concession 6 Townsend to 500 meters south of Concession 6 Townsend, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
• Ireland Road: From Lynn Valley Road to St. Johns Road, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
• Main Street, Rockford: From 260
meters north and 800 meters south of Concession 11 Townsend, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
• Mill Pond Road, Vittoria: From Vittoria Road to 1,600 meters south, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
• McDowell Road, Bill’s Corners: From 350 meters west of Charlotteville East Quarter Line Road to 250 meters east of Bill’s Corners Road, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
• Norfolk Highway 59, South Middleton: From 150 meters north of 3rd Concession STR to 400 meters south of Middleton-North Walsing-
ham Townline Road, the speed limit will be 60 km/h.
The speed limit changes take effect when signage is posted. The new by-law replaces all previous by-laws setting speed limits within Norfolk County.
Requests by members of the public to change the posted speed limit are referred to the Norfolk Road Safety Committee for initial review and discussion. To learn more or make a request, visit service.NorfolkCounty.ca. For a complete list of all roads and their respective speed limits, visit NorfolkCounty.ca/Roads.
Get ready Waterford… here comes Christmas
BRENDA MOSER
Advocate Corrospondent
The town of Waterford has survived another successful Pumpkinfest!
A huge thank you goes out to the Waterford Lions and all of the community members who stepped forward to volunteer their time to continue this long- standing tradition. From set up to take down, help was always there to lend a hand. It was truly a great weekend and the crowds were indicative of that. Next year’s preparations will begin in the new year but until then, thank you for a job well done!
With that being said, it’s on to the next community project at hand!
With Christmas just around the corner the Waterford Chamber of Commerce has also been busy. Plans for their Starlight Shopping Days are well under way and will be held Thursday, Nov. 14, and Thursday, Nov. 21, from 5-8 p.m.
A number of merchants will be offering some great gift ideas for everyone on your list. Vendors will also be at the Museum on Nichol Street.
Chamber businesses will be running their own ‘specials.’ Drop in to Kerry’s St. James Street Eatery for free hot chocolate and popcorn,
courtesy of Waterford Chamber of Commerce, before you head off to do some shopping. You should receive a flyer in the mail to enter draws at participating stores. This ‘passport’ will have special words from local stores, and it’s up to you to find the snowflakes with these words on them and fill in your passport. Hand in your completed form to Kerry’s for a chance to win some great prizes.
Kerry added, “We’re hoping to promote and support local businesses. You will be able to buy all of your Christmas presents without leaving town… and don’t miss Golden Pond’s special Christmas tree light up! It is breathtaking.”
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Busy making hats and mittens this past year for Hats for Kids in Norfolk County are: (back row) Mary VanOoteghem, Gaynor Wood, Dianne Kersten, Simone Coppens, Juliet VanLeuvenhage, (front row) Jackie Wulleman, Dorothy VanHooren, and Maryanne Kersten.
Not in the photo are Rosemary Erdelac, Darlene Casier, and Jan Grinceicius.
Alzheimer Society is there to help
Help is just a call away.
That’s one of the messages that Madison Brown, education coordinator for the Alzheimer Society Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk Regions, wants to get out.
“I believe that a lot of people don’t reach out because they don’t know what help they need,” Browns says. “But just call, and we will help you figure it out.”
Dementia is a relevant topic in Norfolk County. The risk of contracting dementia doubles every five years after age 65. Perhaps because a number of people choose to retire in the area, Norfolk skews higher than the Ontario average when it comes to the percentage of the population age 65 and older.
According to the 2021 Census, Brown notes 26% of Norfolk’s population was 65plus, compared to the Ontario average of 18.5%. Currently, 8.7% of the age-65 population has dementia. As this group ages, it’s predicted that the percentage will increase to 13.2% by the year 2050.
What all of this means is that education and support for individuals with dementia, and their caregivers, is vitally important.
The Alzheimer Society offers three basic “pillars of support” in the community, according to John Cullen, Communications Specialist for the Alzheimer Society
of Brant, Haldimand Norfolk, Hamilton, and Halton. These pillars are education, counselling and support, and health and wellness.
On the education front, Brown goes into
the community to retirement homes, community groups, churches, first responders’ units, and anyone else who wants to request a presentation to better understand dementia.
Among the most pressing topics in the public presentations, Brown notes, are providing information about risk factors for dementia, how to address these risk factors, and the difference between normal aging and dementia.
“Minor changes in memory and cognitive function” are normal as we age, says Brown.
“Most people get worried when they start forgetting things,” she notes, but there are specific indicators that the individual may be experiencing more than the normal changes that come as we get older.
Education on a variety of topics about dementia is offered in-person, or via Zoom, at various times of the day. While Zoom sessions were particularly helpful during Covid, Brown sees the value of being physically out in the community.
“Within Haldimand-Norfolk, a lot of people tend to prefer in-person sessions. Internet access might be a barrier to some, and we’re trying to ensure everyone can access the information.”
Among the key messages Brown tries to get across are “Number one, it’s possible and attainable to live well with dementia. Two, it’s never too late to consider ways to improve our brain health. And three, caregivers are not alone in their journey.”
“It’s really easy to feel like you’re on an island,” Brown says of caregivers. “But really, we’re just a cluster of islands. There are some universal experiences, and we can reach out and lean on other people. The more we talk about (dementia), the less scary it becomes.”
The Alzheimer Society offers support for caregivers, including counselling. There are also support and social programs for those with dementia, including art programs and a social café. Exercise sessions like Sit to be Fit, a low-impact workout available at a number of locations, encourage seniors to stay physically active, a factor in reducing the risk of dementia.
Though the Alzheimer Society receives some government funding, they also fundraise to support their service offerings. Cullen notes that the biggest fundraiser is usually the Walk for Alzheimer’s, with the next such event scheduled May 24, 2025. There are 29 different Alzheimer Societies across Ontario, Cullen notes, and they all hold the walk on the same day, at different venues.
Cullen says anyone who wants more information about the Alzheimer Society’s programs or services is welcome to visit the web site, stop by the Simcoe office, located at 645 Norfolk St. N., or give them a call. The Simcoe office has information pamphlets in a variety of languages besides English, including Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, and others.
Brown notes that often people wait until the breaking point before they reach out.
“One of the things we hear most often is ‘I wish I had come to you sooner.’” She encourages people not to wait until that point. “You don’t need to know what you need. Just reach out and we will help you.”
LISA TIMPF Advocate Contributor
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
While Zoom sessions continue to be one method of delivering information, education coordinator Madison Brown notes the importance of getting out into the community. Here, Brown (right) and Susan Cheeseman, a volunteer coordinator with the Alzheimer Society, staff an information table.
Creative Expressions art classes for persons living with dementia and their care partners offer the opportunity to develop new skills, while also improving concentration and memory. Creative Expressions is one of many programs offered through the Alzheimer Society.
Children carve pumpkins, learn fire safety
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Delhi Firefighters Association presented its 8th annual Halloween Open House on Oct. 26.
The fire hall was buzzing with spooky games, fire truck tours (including Station 1’s aerial truck), face painting, obstacle course, fire safety education, music, and of course, pumpkin carving.
“A lot of pumpkins,” laughed Norfolk County Fire Department assistant fire chief James Robertson. “It’s an ‘open house / pumpkin carve.’ It’s a community event, and it’s not just us, we have a lot of our community partners here today… paramedic services, OPP, Norfolk County Library, Norfolk 4-H Club, and Delhi District Secondary School cheerleaders who are doing the facepainting.”
Everything was free, said Robertson, including the (donation) barbecue and photo booth. Sparky the Fire Dog made an appearance every hour during the three-hour
event.
“Last year we had 620 people – that was our highest year.”
By 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 26, he estimated about 400 had visited the hall.
“We love the community engagement, opening our doors to the public, letting them see what we’re all about. And giving back to the community as well. It’s definitely a growing event.
“Everyone loves it. A lot of (firefighting) families chip in too, spouses, children. My children are running around today doing what they can.”
The open house meshed well with the Delhi Business Improvement Area’s 9th annual Walk of Treats, which included more than 30 locations for trick-or-treating children to collect treats.
“A lot of them come over here (Argyle Avenue), you can see them in costumes. It’s good that we’re not competing with each other, we’re building on different events.”
chris@granthaven.com
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
An excited Eli Wardell climbs aboard a fire truck during the annual Delhi Firefighter Association Halloween Open House at Station 5 on Oct. 26.
Hazel Holbrook, dressed as Scooby Doo, prepares her pumpkin for carving at the annual Delhi Firefighter Association Halloween Open House.
Young pirate Lucas Cowan helped carve a pumpkin with Kelly White at the Delhi Firefighter Association Halloween Open House on Oct. 26.
William Greathead of Delhi tries to get a better look at Sparky the Fire Dog, Oct. 26 during the Delhi Firefighter Association Halloween Open House. The event also featured spooky games, face painting, an obstacle course, and fire safety education.
Simcoe BIA’s annual Treats in the Streets
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Grayden and Adelyn Land visited Spectrum Gymnastics on Robinson Street for Downtown Simcoe BIA’s annual Treats in the Streets. More than 700 children participated in the Halloween trick-or-treating event.
Elizabeth Asselin, Ryelea Bird, Mary Stoner and Kitty Stoner joined the trick-or-treating fun during the Downtown Simcoe BIA Treats in the Streets event on Oct. 26.
Rory Berkel was prepared to go through doors Oct. 26 collecting treats during Simcoe BIA’s annual Treats in the Streets.
Briar, Calder and Parker Fehrman dressed up for Downtown Simcoe BIA’s annual Treats in the Streets on Oct. 26.
Stephen and Stephanie Khalla from The Creative Bru-tique were handing out Halloween treats Oct. 26 during the Downtown Simcoe Treats in the Streets. The Creative Bru-tique’s grand opening is Nov. 23.
Sophia and Izzy Morgan were trick-or-treating Oct. 26 in downtown Simcoe. Sixty businesses were ‘on the map for the annual Simcoe BIA Halloween event.
Wishbone brewery is a welcome addition to Waterford
BRENDA MOSER Advocate Correspondent
In the early 1900s the Dominion Telephone Company was erected at the corner of Alice and St. James Streets in Waterford, but the business was to be short lived.
The 100,000 square foot building was one of the finest in this area of the country but the people of Waterford would be disappointed when, in 1912, the Corporation of the Village of Waterford foreclosed on the Company. It remains, to this day, known as ‘the Old Dominion Telephone Co. building.’ But it was the foresight of one local businessman, who saw past its history, to realize the potential it had.
Tyler Ferguson and his wife Ashley came from Brant County and have lived just outside of Waterford for the past seven years. Ferguson spent almost 10 years working in automotive sales and decided that a change was due, and so Wishbone Brewing Company was born.
“Waterford was close to home and needed a brewery. I home brewed for a while and wanted to take the passion to the next level and create a fun, welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy good craft beer,” said Ferguson.
That decision was one of the best he could have made in life and has proven to be a huge success.
Having purchased the old Dominion Telephone Co. space, Ferguson converted it to a top-of-the-line brewery, tap room, bottle shop and gathering spot.
“There are many challenges to opening a brewery. It’s a wild ride and not for everyone. I was fortunate to have a great support system and mentors along the way to help carve my dream into a reality,” said Tyler.
The brewery, tap room and bottle shop opened its doors to the public in July 2021 and their success has continued to grow.
Recently the brewery won two awards at The Canada Beer Cup held in Vancouver.
“We received a gold medal for 2 The Moon Double Hazy IPA and silver for
sible in local events such as the Norfolk County Fair, Eat & Drink Norfolk, Pumpkinfest and The Fairgrounds Festival. We also travel throughout Ontario to the I Heart Beer & Taco Festivals during the off-season.”
Tyler admits that possible future growth locations and organic growth is always on his mind as they grow.
“Waterford has treated Wishbone with so much love and with open arms and we work really hard to keep these relationships strong while giving our best efforts to make world class beer and provide a fun and safe environment for the community.”
Tyler.
Wishbone offers live music every Friday from 7-9 p.m., various rotating Saturday events that include Open Mic Night and karaoke and their ever-famous Sunday Trivia at 6:30 p.m. Tyler himself personally makes the questions from scratch each week and is the host of the event as well. It has become a very popular event in the region.
“We always participate as often as pos-
A successful business such as Wishbone Brewing Company relies on great staff as well, and Ferguson is lucky to have a great staff of his own. Kudos to his head brewer Nick Lang and his front-of-house staff Valerie Cardinal and Taylor Peekstok. Should you need a little something to nibble on, they offer tasty charcuterie boards with such snacks as soft pretzels, sausage rolls, Jensen cheese and curds, locally sourced meats, pressed pizza… your traditional brewery snacks. Their hours are Thursday from 1-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 12-10 p.m. and Sunday 12-9 p.m. Always on tap and always served at Wishbone Brewery is a welcoming, friendly environment where good friends can meet, sit back, relax and enjoy some great brew, food and company. Congratulations on your success… it is well deserved.
Yard Sale Cream Ale. This was our 3rd medal win for national awards this year,” said
Tyler Ferguson serves Waterford resident and band member Sean McNamara at Lounge 5 during the Norfolk County Fair. McNamara had just finished playing a set at the Lounge.
Patrons enjoy a cold beverage at Wishbone Brewing Co. in Waterford.
Expert, trusted service from Delhi Fowers & Gifts
Delhi Flowers and Gifts, located at 167 and 169 Main Street, Delhi, celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024.
With three decades servicing a small town – and a much wide area – with fresh and artificial flowers for all occasions, along with plants, plush toys and giftware, there have been generations of customers. It’s a special moment when someone says, ‘You did my wedding, and now you’re doing my kids’ proms.’ Or when you do flowers for a baby boy or girl, and years later, it’s their graduations and weddings.
“People know us and they want us to do their flowers,” said Joyce Verbrugge, owner.
“It means so much getting flowers, it means someone is thinking of you.”
The busiest day of the year is always Valentine’s Day, she said. Mother’s Day and Easter are busy weeks, and the Christmas season lasts one-anda-half months. Of course, year-round there are anniversaries and baby occasions, funerals and flowers and gift baskets for illnesses.
“It’s always been Flower and Gifts, because you might send a dozen roses and chocolate, or you might send a bouquet and teddy bear…
“You never know from day to day how busy it’s going to be. I can come to work in the morning and there’s nothing on the board, and then all of a sudden there’s 10 phone calls.”
They also provide a floral service for out-of-town customers through the FTD and Teleflora network. It could be from Toronto, Vancouver, or even Australia or Great Britain.
Many customers like to visit in-person, but for convenience many also use their online service. Verbrugge stresses it’s important to go through their website (delhiflowers.ca), or call them directly at 519-582-8246.
Unauthorized distributors have been known to take online orders through international websites, sending the order to Delhi Flowers and Gifts and charging inflated fees for that service.
“If you go to my website, send the order straight to me, you eliminate all those people – and the extra costs. They can call at 8 o’clock at night, and I’ll still answer (519-428-4005).
Verbrugge has guides – with names and colours – to assist those who are not familiar with flowers.
Customers can browse from dozens of catalogues for inspiration and ideas, finding something traditional, or something unique. Flowers are shipped to Delhi Flowers and Gifts on a regular basis – two trucks arrived last Thursday.
“Sympathy is our biggest thing here… I think it’s the biggest (instore supply) in Norfolk County, nobody’s got this much stuff in their store. We have these stone toppers here, for cemeteries, and quite a few people come from Toronto because they don’t do them there. And next year they’ll come back for more – re-
peat customers.
“I order the flowers, and they bring them in the next day. We’ve got four different designers here, two on call if I need them.”
Verbrugge tries to source local flowers whenever she can. In the summer, there are sunflowers, dahlias, gladiolus. In the spring, a grower south of Simcoe supplies tulips. Many lilies – white, pink and orange – are grown just outside Delhi. She buys potting plants in Waterford.
Delivery is a major facet of the business for a company that employs five, including a driver, who was making seven deliveries last Thursday.
For Christmas and Valentine’s Day, they bring the staff up to at least 1112.
“On Valentine’s Day there’s like four drivers and 10 people working in the store.”
Some ornaments and gifts for Christmas are already in their showroom, but it won’t be long before Christmas stock fills shelves. By mid-November, many people decorate outside their homes, said Verbrugge.
Delhi Flowers and Gifts relies on four expert floral designers, with more on call for busy seasons.
Waterford’s Remembrance Day begins with parade
Branch 123 padre Rev. Alan Burr.
Waterford and its surrounding area are invited to a Remembrance Day service at the cenotaph on Main Street on Nov. 11. The annual Remembrance Day parade starts at the Tricenturena Waterford Arena, about 10:30-10:35 a.m., heading to the cenotaph in front of the Old Town Hall. It will be led by the Paris Port Dover Pipe Band, followed by the Waterford Branch 123, Royal Canadian Legion colour party, military personnel, and anyone from the community who would like to join the five-minute march.
The ceremony at the cenotaph typically begins about 10:45 a.m. with welcoming comments from Branch 123 president Ian Simpson focusing on the importance of Remembrance Day. Usually about 100120 people attend, he said.
Wreaths are laid following a prayer from
“At 11 a.m., everything stops, and we do our lowering of the flag, the two-minute silence, the Rouse (Reveille) and the Lament (Last Post), then we carrying on laying the wreaths,” said Simpson.
The ceremony ends with the Benediction and Closing Prayer from the padre.
The Legion then invites the community to a short service at the Veterans Plot at Greenwood Cemetery on Thompson Road East.
“It’s something we as a Legion do because that’s where the majority of our veterans are laid. Then we come back to the Branch (for lunch).”
Branch 123’s colour party will split up to visit two schools in the morning – Waterford District High School and St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Elementary School - before the cenotaph service, and two later in the afternoon – Boston Public School and Bloomsburg Public School. Students
Construction & Renovations
New Homes, Interior Upgrades, Additions & More
Mark Acton Construction Ltd. is based in Simcoe, Ontario and services Norfolk County for all types of residential and commercial construction and renovations, including:
• New home construction – Custom home & cottage construction.
• Kitchen & bathroom renovations – Important interior renovations.
• Interior painting – Professional painting in a timely fashion.
• Fence & deck construction – Lounge in peace and privacy
• General construction and contracting services – Stairs, railings, additions and extensions and more!
“That’s an important part of what we do. It’s important to us that we get our schools involved.”
All of the veterans – and the publicare invited to a Remembrance dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 6, gathering around 5 p.m. with dinner served at 5:30 p.m.
“It’s not just for veterans,” Simpson noted.
Dignitaries and veteran’s spouses are invited to Branch 123’s honours and awards night on Nov. 16. chris@granthaven.com
from Waterford Public
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Waterford’s Remembrance Day service takes place Nov. 11 at the cenotaph in front of the Old Town Hall on Main Street.
Army Navy Air Force 255’s ‘keeping it fresh’
War.
Today, Army Navy Air Force Veterans in Canada has 21 units in Ontario, including Simcoe, and 62 in seven provinces across Canada, as well as related units in the United States.
“We’re always going to be a veterans’ club, but we’re looking for people that recognize our veterans and know that they need help. It’s also a place of camaraderie and friendship. I am here for the people, I am here for the veterans. If I see somebody that needs something, they’re going to get it.”
Wilson has been president of ANAF 255 - Simcoe for the past dozen years, and
ANAF member for 44 years, following in the footsteps of his father, Bruce Wilson Sr., who was president for two terms.
“My heart is dedicated to this ANAF family.”
Regular 19-and-older visitors to ANAF 255 are encouraged to become members – it’s $46 for a membership to join their ‘family.’
“Everybody is welcome,” Wilson added. “And the door is always open (during business hours). We’re open year-round, except Christmas. You do not have to be a veteran, or associated with a veteran in your family, to be a member here. A lot of people, for different reasons, think they are not eligible. But anybody can join.”
ANAF is not affiliated with the Royal Canadian Legion, he noted.
“We are all here for the same purpose, we just wear different uniforms. We’re all volunteers.”
Located at 53 Water Street, regular hours are 2-8 p.m. Monday, Thursday, Friday; 3-8 Tuesday and Wednesday; and 1-6 Saturday and Sunday.
“Once people get in and see ‘the look,’ they like it. We keep it fresh. We’re going for a different look, like the bar stools –they’re unique. And we’re going to have a standup bar here, made of the same stuff. We’re trying to make it more appealing.”
REMEMBRANCE DAY
ANAF 255 will be participating in Simcoe’s Remembrance Day service on Monday, Nov. 11. The community is invited to
gather for 10:40 a.m. at the Carillon Tower.
ANAF 255 will be open by noon that day, and a free lunch will be served around 3-3:30 p.m., continuing a long-time tradition that in past years included visits to the Simcoe Armoury, then the Branch 79 Royal Canadian Legion for light lunch and camaraderie.
“I will be making chili, hamburg soup (old-style soup he learned from his grandfather), and we’ll have cold cuts, salads here – and everyone is welcome.”
***
Fundraising dinners include a fish and chips dinner - or half-chicken dinner - the first Saturday of the month, 3-6 p.m. On Nov. 2, they served about 70-80 people. They have a spin-the-wheel meat raffle on Saturdays.
On the third Thursday every month, they have a wing night, 4-7 p.m. ($12/ pound of wings).
And every third Sunday there is an allyou-can-eat breakfast/brunch ($14 adults/ teens, 12-under $5, and under 5 free) from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
“There’s everything – you can have eggs any way you want them. Home fries, beans, peameal bacon, bacon, sausages, pancakes… you won’t go away hungry.
“We get a pretty good turnout. Summertime is always slow. Fall, winter, spring is your busy times. We’ll have anywhere between 110-130 people. It’s all open to the public.
“I love to cook, so I end up cooking,” he laughed. “Next Saturday (Nov. 9), the
Gentlemen of Harmony are here after their (Simcoe Composite School) show and they want chili for 60-70 people –they love my chili, so I’m going to have to make a double batch. I try to help our ladies auxiliary as much as I can.”
On Friday, Dec. 6 there will be a turkey/ ham raffle starting at 7 p.m. Tickets have been reduced from $2 to $1. There will be a light lunch after the raffle.
“We donate those profits to the hospital.” ANAF 255 (7,300 square feet) also does hall rentals for special occasions, including weddings, birthday parties and anniversaries, celebrations of life, as well as regular meetings (free for non-profits like Special Olympics).
“Everyone is welcome,” Wilson concluded.
chris@granthaven.com
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Army Navy Air Force 255 volunteer Kelton Ernst delivers an order of fish and chips on Saturday, Nov. 2.
Remembrance Day in Delhi
ABBOTT Editor
Do you have your poppy?
In Delhi, The Royal Canadian Legion, Major Walter Barnard Branch 125 began its in-person ‘tagging’ campaign on Nov. 2. It will continue on Nov. 9.
“We’re doing well,” said Trudy Ingraham, Branch 125 poppy chair. “We’ve had a little bit more volunteers than we’ve had a couple other years in the past. We’ve got lots of locations that are working with us to get our canvassers out there.”
Legion Branch 125 volunteers will have poppies at 10 locations throughout town on Nov. 9.
“It’s going well today,” she nodded. “10 locations, that’s great for a small town.”
REMEMBRANCE DAY
Delhi’s Nov. 11 Remembrance Day service officially starts at 10:45 a.m. at the cenotaph, located at King/James Street. There will be a two-minute silence at 11 a.m., followed by the laying of wreaths.
“I found today, in our memorabilia display downstairs, a Remembrance Day program from 1951, so yes, it goes back a lot of years here.”
This year, more than 75 wreaths will be laid – including those laid before the service – by businesses, dignitaries and those honouring veterans.
“Usually it’s a family member laying the wreath for a veteran,” said Neil MacIsaac, who was canvassing Saturday in front of the LCBO.
“We had a good turnout at the cenotaph last year – there had to be at least 100 people last year.”
TEETERVILLE
The Royal Canadian Legion in Teeterville, Wagner Memorial Branch 526, will hold its Remembrance cenotaph service and parade on Sunday, Nov. 10, at 3890 Teeterville Road.
Parade fall-in at the Women’s Institute Hall is 1:30 p.m., marching to the Legion by approximately 1:45 p.m. The service will be held at the cenotaph upon arrival. All are welcome. chris@granthaven.com
CHRIS
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Neil MacIsaac from the Major Walter Barnard Branch 125 was canvassing for poppies Saturday in Delhi.
Major Walter Barnard Branch 125’s colour party was preparing for Remembrance Day with a Nov. 3 practice session at the Delhi cenotaph.
Mannix Dellaire manned the Legion Branch 125 vendor booth on Saturday Nov. 2.
A collection of local short stories of remembrance
V-E Day in Simcoe
May 1945
After more than five and a half years, residents of Simcoe and district ‘gave vent to pent-up emotions… in a spontaneous celebration of V-E Day,’ reported the Simcoe Reformer in May 1945.
The local celebration was considered the greatest since the Nov. 11, 1918 Armistice was declared.
“Spreading with the rapidity of a forest fire, the celebration got underway at 3 o’clock on Monday afternoon, heralded by the bell at Trinity Anglican Church, followed by a blast of factory whistles and car horns. In no time at all, the downtown streets were a mass of seething humanity. People of all ages and all walks of life jammed the sidewalks and street intersections, riding in every type of vehicle imaginable.”
Throughout the afternoon, the town
was a bedlam of noise and gaiety – and it continued for hours. By 4 o’clock, however, many left the streets to attend services in their respective churches.
By 6 o’clock, there was a let-up as many in the carnival-like crowd began to weary.
At 8, there was a solemn air at a community service held in the Armouries with about 500 in attendance.
The Victory in Europe Day celebration continued downtown afterwards, but was halted by a heavy downpour about 10 o’clock.
The next day a military parade was staged from Wellington Park through the town and back to the park where a brief service was held. The two-day celebration concluded that night with a Victory Dance in the Armouries.
Norfolk jam for Britain
December 1945
The story of Norfolk Jam for British Children actually began at the Toronto Exhibition in 1939, reported the Simcoe Reformer.
A member of Marburg Women’s Institute, attending a luncheon on Farmers’ Day, got the idea to make jam for British children out of fruit that was going to waste.
A committee was formed, Port Dover’s Institute joined in the project, and all other Institutes in the county were asked to help.
The co-operative program soon resulted in 5,000 pounds of jam reaching Glasgow that Christmas and another 5,000 pounds reaching Lancashire soon after. The Red
Cross shipped the remaining 1,500 pounds to the Women’s Voluntary Services in London.
By the spring of 1940, Provincial Institutes and the Red Cross were making inquiries about the Norfolk jam project, which led to a new Jam for Britain campaign. Ontario Institutes provided fruit, sugar, recipes and supervision, while the Ontario Red Cross supplied tins, labels and transportation.
The original committee included a group of Port Dover men, along with Mrs. TB Barrett, Mrs. JG Patterson, Mrs. LW Challand, Mrs. M. Woodger, and volunteers from 30 Women’s Institutes.
Norfolk County gave much to nine Victory Loans
December 1945
It was reported in December 1945 in the Simcoe Reformer that one of Norfolk County’s outstanding contributions to the war effort was ‘without a doubt the splendid achievement of nine Victory Loan Campaigns.’
Nine campaigns during the Second World War raised $22,216,250 within the county. Subscription targets were reached in every time, and in two campaigns – the seventh and ninth – Norfolk County was the first in the province to ‘go over the top.’
The Reformer reported the success of the local Victory Loan Campaigns was due entirely to the excellent teamwork of the salesmen in eight division of the county, coupled with untiring efforts of a county-wide volunteer organization, headquarters and staff.
From loan to loan, the county objective was increased as the demand for more war supplies became imperative.
“Notwithstanding the increases, Norfolk citizens responded nobly and co-operated in keeping the country’s excellent war record intact,” reported the Reformer.
Delhi Red Cross formed in 1939
December 1945
It was in October 1939, just one month after Germany declared war, that Delhi – with the community already well-represented in the armed forces – marshalled its forces for ‘war work’, which included the organization of a Red Cross Society.
The first meeting was held in the town hall with approximately 100 enthusiastic persons in attendance. GG Kent was the first president and TG Spencer was secretary until 1943. JP Dougherty was the first treasurer.
From 1939 to 1945, seven Red Cross campaigns were conducted in Delhi with total collections of $53,442.10, reported the Simcoe Reformer. In 1941, the amount of $10,376 was nearly double the previous year. That number was matched by donations in 1943.
WOMEN’S COMMITTEE
At the same time, a women’s work unit was organized for sewing, knitting and hospital supplies.
Mrs. J. Walter Barnard, wife of Captain JW Barnard, was the first convener of sewing and Mrs. Bruce Dick, convener of knitting.
With many willing workers offering their assistance and many of them sewing or knitting for the first time, a lot of extra work was entailed in filling quotas ordered by Red Cross Headquarters. The local Kinsmen Club offered their club
room free of charge on Wellington Street and the first tables were card tables placed together. The building was doubled in size with annex in 1940 and ‘cutting tables’ were introduced, with racks and shelves to hold supplies, and finished products ready for shipment.
The knitting and sewing committees combined in 1943. Auxiliaries were set up in Lynedoch (contributing 2,281 articles of sewing, including 44 ditty bags), Courtland, which sewed at their community hall, and Rhineland, which sewed from their homes or the basement of the Rhineland church.
The Red Cross purchased four sewing machines, and extra machines were loaned by members.
The true value of lives
November 1945
“Today the thoughts of many in our Empire are turned to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Westminster Abbey; to the memorial of one, unrecognized, of all that mighty army who died doing their duty,” said Capt. Rev. CC Mixer in a November 1945 Simcoe Reformer.
A solemn Sunday morning service of remembrance was held Nov. 11, 1945 at the Norfolk War Memorial honouring those who gave their lives in the first and second World Wars.
“On his grave are these words. ‘The Lord knoweth them that are his.’ Though each one may be unknown to men, yet each is known to God. The knowledge of the world and the knowledge of God are two very different things. So with remembrance. Earthly remembrance, because of the relentless passing of time,
finally fades away. God’s remembrance is continual and so is His care.”
Countless thousands died during the Second World War, he said, some of them known to those at the 1945 ceremony who remained precious memories. To the world at large, they were unknown individually. As a unit, unknown, but a vast array of heroes.
“Remembrance Day reminds us then of the true value of true men and women,” Mixer stated. “From the standpoint of the dictators, a human life is worth its fighting or working power, and when his usefulness is gone, he can be eliminated if convenient. From this country’s point of view, the value of each of us is our contribution to the common life… our material and moral worth, and the quality is of vital importance as the country’s strength is that of each of its sons.”
Timeless Quotes for Remembrance
For the Fallen
September 1914
“They went with songs to the battle, they were young. Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow. They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted. They fell with their faces to the foe.
“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”
- Robert Laurence Binyon
‘What is our aim?’
May 13, 1940
“You ask, what is our aim? I can answer in one word: Victory. Victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory, however long and hard the road may be; for without victory, there is no survival.”
- Winston Churchill
In Flanders Fields
BY JOHN MCCRAE
‘This was their finest hour’
June 18, 1940
“Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties, and so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and its Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, “This was their finest hour.”
- Winston Churchill
‘With the utmost vigour’
June 25, 1940
“We shall prosecute the war with the utmost vigour by all the means that are open to us until the righteous purposes for which we entered upon it have been fulfilled.”
- Winston Churchill
December 27, 1945
“There are many families in this country who have suffered the loss of their best and bravest. I realize how little words can accomplish to ease the rankling and enduring pain. And yet, I do so firmly believe that it is not the length of a man’s life which counts, but what he accomplishes in the time at his disposal. On that basis, there should be no mourning for those who will never return, but much quiet pride in the fact that they gave all to save the world from a tyranny worse than death.”
- General HDG Crerar, Commander of the Canadian Army Overseas
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
Raiders lift AABHN football trophy
Delhi District Secondary School Raiders football team was ‘firing on all cylinders’ winning the 2024 AABHN championship in Simcoe Nov. 2.
“This was an amazing crowd,” said Darryl Smart, presenting the AABHN Non-CWOSSA football trophy after Delhi defeated Simcoe Composite School 45-0. “It’s awesome to see a great game and a great crowd like this on a beautiful day. Congratulations to both teams.”
The final result was night and day from the Mud Jug three weeks earlier when SCS defeated Delhi 24-17.
“It was our mindset,” said Delhi centre Carson McKie. “We went into this game knowing we had it. We were a little hesitant for the Mud Jug game, but we practiced for this. Today we knew that (win) was going to be the result from the beginning.
“I love it – it was good,” McKie smiled.
“Right off the kickoff, getting that fumble, that’s when I knew we were locked in,” said Delhi Grade 11 quarterback JD Zurby, who was very frustrated at the 2024 Mud Jug not being able to play the second half. It didn’t help that a year before SCS had won the Mud Jug 48-0.
“Watching my team get beat, I thought about that every night since that game, and I just wanted to get it back.”
Zurby said the team gained momentum defeating Caledonia’s McKinnon Park 35-6 in the semifinals.
“We were thinking, ‘Let’s just go get this.’”
Delhi Grade 11 receiver Memphis Becker had two interceptions Saturday, and one touchdown.
“We all came to this game very motivated,” said Becker. “We knew we had it in
us to win the championship, we just had to keep pushing at practice, lock it in.”
Delhi scored a decisive touchdown on the final play of the second quarter, taking a 21-0 lead into the half.
“We knew the game was never over until it was over,” said Becker. “But that touchdown gave us a lot of momentum.”
Delhi’s Hudson Zantingh scored two touchdowns, including one ‘pick six’ from an interception. It was Zantingh who delivered the late second-quarter touchdown, wide open, catching a bomb from Zurby at full speed.
“It felt really good, I was pumped to catch that.”
The difference Saturday, said Zantingh, was defending against Simcoe’s run.
“They ran the ball hard, but we contained them today.”
Communication seemed to be an issue, said Simcoe’s Chris Heard. And dealing
with Delhi’s blitz.
“At least five guys coming, it was two on one. We tried to adjust, but it was too late,” said Heard.
The pressure Delhi was able to put on Simcoe quarterback Andrew Fekete Saturday resembled pressure the Sabres put on Zurby earlier at the Mud Jug.
“They learned from us,” said Heard. “They made the changes they needed to make.”
It might have been overconfidence, said Simcoe’s Amario Knight.
But SCS coach Marc Bertrand did not agree.
“We had the best week of practice leading up to this,” said Bertrand. “At the end of the day we’re going to have to go back and look at the film and just see where we failed to execute. Delhi definitely came in and fired on all cylinders and we just didn’t manage to get it done.”
After a 38-36 win over Pauline Johnson, Bertrand said overconfidence was not an issue.
“We had three serious practices this week and I am surprised by the score.”
Fekete, who was injured in the first quarter, continued to play until the end of the third quarter, with the game out of reach, when he was sidelined to give their backup experience.
“I was running out, got 11 yards, and it was just a late hit while I was down,” said Fekete. “I love this sport, there’s no quit in a championship game.”
The Sabres quarterback said the home team did not react well to certain plays, did not transition, and there were moments of confusion.
“I didn’t have space to run at all. As soon as it was snapped, it was two seconds and I’m getting hit. Your wide receivers need a release and they need a break. They’re not open in two seconds. It’s hard to create separation when you have very little time.
“Nothing was really working from the get-go and it’s hard to run an offence when nothing’s working. Down so much at the beginning, we went straight to ‘we need points and we need them fast.’”
Fekete said the Sabres could still hold their heads high after a five-game undefeated regular season – and the Mud Jug. “Hell of a season, this is a great team,” Fekete concluded. “I was happy to play with every single player on my team. Leading this team has been my favourite thing… and high school football coming to an end for me, it’s just so sad.”
Fekete has been invited to Queen’s and Guelph university football camps.
“They start right after this – we’ll be starting in November training for Brantford.”
chris@granthaven.com
CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Norfolk Chaos Volleyball Club
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Norfolk Chaos Volleyball Club held an ‘in-house’ scrimmage tournament Saturday at Simcoe Composite School to prepare for upcoming playoffs. The 14U and 15U girls teams were in the gym Saturday afternoon.
Halloween Sk8tacular features ‘tricks for treats’
ADVOCATE STAFF
info@simcoeadvocate.com
The local 100% Skateboarder Sk8club Ontario chapter recently held its 2nd Annual Halloween Sk8tacular Tricks for Treats, Oct. 19 in Port Dover.
“It was a huge success,” says president Brian Timmons. “Lots of fun for all, trick or treating for the kids, skate events with lots of prizes awarded, and best costume contest for adults and children.”
Entrants were required to bring in non-perishable food items to benefit the Port Dover Food Bank to skate.
Sponsors included MyFM 98.9, Port Dover Maple Leaf, Grand River Skate Shop and many more.
“We would like to thank everyone that came out to skate and show support for their wonderful community,” said Timmons.
(SUBMITTED PHOTOS)
100% Skateboarder Sk8club Ontario chapter held its 2nd Annual Halloween Sk8tacular Tricks for Treats, Oct. 19, in Port Dover.
NEWSPAPER PICK UP LOCATIONS
SIMCOE__________
• Barnyard Patio & Pub
• Bubbles Laundry
• Canadian Tire
• Carr Aquatic Centre
• Cedar St Food Market
• Food Basics
• Great Canadian Superstore
• Kaley’s Restaurant
• McDonald’s
• Norfolk County Archives
• Norfolk County Library
• Peavey Mart
• Petro Canada
• Pharmasave
• Pioneer Gas
• Riversyde 83
• Roulston’s Pharmacy
• Ru ins Pet Store
• Shoppers Drug Mart
• Simcoe Convenience
• Simcoe Recreation Centre
• Simcoe Seniors Centre
• Sobeys
• So Mexican Eatery
• Tim Hortons
• Walmart WATERFORD_______
• Belching Barista
• Esso
• Farmer Joe’s Bakehouse
• Foodland Waterford
• Green House Makers Market
• Home Building Centre
• Kerry’s James St. Eatery
• Minor Bros. Country Living
• Tim Hortons
• Tricenturena
Waterford Arena
• Waterford Antique Market
• Waterford Heritage & Ag Museum
• Waterford Pharmacy
DELHI___________
• Canadian Tire
• Circle K
• Dave’s Variety
• Home Building Centre
• Home Hardware
• Roulston’s Pharmacy
• Tim Hortons
• Wilkinson’s YIG LANGTON________
• Langton Food Market
• Langton Pharmacy
COURTLAND_______
• Courtland Bakery Ltd.
• Courtland Variety & Café
The quest for the holy puffin
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
I will admit, it’s not up there with Indiana Jones’ quest for the Holy Grail, or even Monty Python’s hilarious attempt at the same feat, but it was truly a quest, nonetheless, and it did take years, and I finally realized my goal, which King Arthur never actually managed to do.
The object of my search was not a sacred vessel; it was a small, multi-coloured bird. To be specific, a puffin.
I have long wanted to see a puffin in its natural setting. It became something of an obsession. Over the years, I have visited a number of places that promised puffin sightings. I visited my sister who lives in St. Anthony, on the northern tip of Newfoundland. I saw whales and icebergs and guillemots. I even patted a beluga whale that had come into a small outport and was hanging around the docks (until a whale scientist told us to leave the whale alone), but no puffins.
I travelled to Ireland three times and hung out on the Atlantic coast at astonishing places like the Giant’s Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher. I saw plenty of posters advertising the availability of puffins, but no puffins.
I visited Yarmouth and the Acadian Shores region of Nova Scotia and fell madly in love with the whole area. It quickly became
one of my favourite destinations in the world, except no puffins.
I have spent a lot of time in much-loved Cornwall, England, exploring coastal towns like Fowey, Marazion and Mousehole (pronounced Mawzel), travelling by boat along the shore, enjoying amazing destinations like Saint Michael’s Mount and Tintagel, but no puffins.
So, when I started to plan my trip to St. John’s, Nfld., earlier this year, I was determined not to get my hopes up. After all, every one of those places I have visited boast about their population of puffins. Every one of them post pictures of these cute, little birds. Every one offered nothing but disappointment to me.
So, I was not optimistic.
What took me to St. John’s was the annual conference of the Travel Media Association of Canada. At these events, we work hard – really – but our hosts also treat us like royalty. One of the features of the conference was an afternoon whale-watching trip with O’Brien’s Boat Tours.
I was pleased about this because, first, who doesn’t want to see whales and second, one of the O’Briens who own the boats is Con O’Brien, also lead singer of the Irish Descendants, a wonderful Newfoundland band that I brought to this area twice when I
was executive director of a local arts festival.
So, it would be fun. But I did not get my puffin-oriented hopes up.
We headed out on the sea, bound for Witless Bay – an interesting name for a destination for writers, bloggers and public-relations professionals.
Perhaps an hour into the voyage, I spotted a couple of small birds floating on the waves. Could they be? Yes! I was actually seeing my first two puffins. I was very excited and then I realized I was actually seeing my first 200,000 puffins or so. The air was filled with oddly shaped, brightly coloured little birds. They were fishing, they were flying, they were floating, they were pooping on or near us; they were making an aged and jaded travel writer very, very happy.
The O’Brien trip was terrific. In addition to literally thousands of puffins, we saw lots of other sea birds – guillemots (old hat to me, of course), terns, kittiwakes, murres. They were interesting, of course, but they meant little to me because I was watching puffins.
On the trip back, we also saw whales. I enjoyed that too, but I have to confess I was still savouring the puffin sightings. After all, I had been years on the quest!
A few days later, I was part of a small group of travel journalists who got to tour the Irish Loop –the part of Newfoundland nearest St. John’s. We stayed in terrific accommodations at Cliff’s Edge Retreat, overlooking Witless Bay.
As I stood on my balcony taking in the amazing view, I realized I was yet again spotting puffins swimming near the shore and darting through the air. This time, it felt like they had come to
me. Clearly, the puffins understood how hard I had worked to establish first contact and they were now feeling a bond with me.
Or maybe the attraction was the fish they were feeding on in Witless Bay.
Witless Bay, by the way, is a well-protected ecological preserve, so it is guaranteed that if you go there at the right time (I was there in June), there will be all manner of seabirds, as well as whales and perhaps icebergs.
I have found that Newfound-
land and Labrador is high on many travellers’ bucket list, and Canada’s newest province deserves to be. So, do go, and if you go, be sure to say hi to the puffins for me.
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.
A quartet of quirky, charming puffins. Photo courtesy Destination St. John's.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
A puffin in flight.
(PHOTO BY UCEPHOTO) Thousands of puffins and other seabirds in flight.
The view of Witless Bay from Cliff's Edge Retreat.
Local singer hits new career highs
JEFF HELSDON Advocate Correspondent
Olivia Mae Graham hit new career highs in 2024 with her new song Boots rocketing to 100,000 social media views in just one month.
Released in August, it quickly had 86,000 views just on YouTube alone. Calling it “pretty spectacular,” Graham said this was a great performance for an independent artist in such a short time frame.
“It normally takes a longer time to build that,” said Graham. “When we released Red Rose, it took three months to reach that.”
Since the release of Boots, Graham has been doing radio interviews with independent stations in Alberta, Quebec, Saskatchewan and Ontario.
“Being based in Ontario, it’s cool my song is being played across the country,” she said.
With local country stations owned by Bell, Rogers or Corus, getting air play is a tougher challenge, but Graham is working on that.
Terri Clark
“It was a dream come true,” Graham said when interviewed a few days after opening for Terri Clark on July 18. “I woke up the next day and it was like a wild dream I had, but there were pictures on Instagram.”
Calling Clark an inspiration in her career, Graham said Clark paved the way for females in Canadian country music. A Frogmore resident, Graham was doing a photo shoot for her next song when she received a message asking her to be Clark’s opening act. Her mother was with her.
“I just screamed and said, ‘Mom, I just got asked to open for Terri Clark,’” Graham recounted. “She slammed on the brakes and we were both screaming.”
Graham had contacted Burning Kiln months earlier in hopes of being able to perform. She has been practicing the last six months, with hopes of being able to take the stage before her idol.
“I look at it as stepping stones,” she said. “For this one, I looked at it that if I
don’t open for Terri Clark, I am still making music. It’s really cool to put in a lot of work the last couple of years and having the Burning Kiln team and Terri’s team recognize I was ready.”
With only one day to practice, Graham started to get nervous.
“I always get nervous but everything was on in my nervous system,” she said.
“I still had the jitters but I walked on the stage and all the nerves were gone.”
After the Terri Clark performance, Graham opened for James Barker Band at the Norfolk County Fair.
***
At the age of four years old, Graham knew she wanted to be a singer.
“My mom asked why and I said I have a lot of songs to sing.”
She started taking music lessons from Tillsonburg/Glen Meyer music teachers
Alison and Darren Schott. After graduating from Valley Heights Secondary School, Graham studied music at university and built up a network on the recording side.
Each of her songs has a story and are building blocks. Red Rose, Mean Girls, and I Can’t Move all have more than 40,000 views each on YouTube. The latter song “changed the needle” for Graham. She was balancing a full-time job and a music career, but the success of “I Can’t Move” led to a big decision.
“I left the job I was working and now’s it’s full tilt,” she said. “It’s gone crazy but it’s the crazy I asked for.”
In addition to YouTube, Graham says she has had incredible support on Amazon, Spotify and Apple Music.
Video Series
A new YouTube video series called The Music in Between has also kept Graham busy this summer. In this series, she shares her journey of life, her daily routine of writing songs, practicing, and the ride to the Terri Clark Show. She also started a fan club called The Mae Flowers.
Watch Graham’s website, https://www. oliviamaegraham.com for updates or follow her on social media.
Celebrate the holiday season with Olivia Mae Graham
ADVOCATE STAFF
info@simcoeadvocate.com
Olivia Mae Graham, a beloved Norfolk singer-songwriter, is “coming home for Christmas” with an intimate Dec. 1 holiday concert that promises to share the warmth and joy of the season.
Fans can look forward to an unforgettable performance at The Carriage Hall in Tillsonburg as Olivia lights up the stage, blending her original music with holiday classics in a heartfelt show that brings everyone closer.
This special concert will feature Olivia’s festive single, "Alone Tonight," a song celebrating the spirit of the holidays and the importance of togetherness.
"This song is all about the little things that make the holidays special - watching the snow fall, singing along to favourite carols," says Olivia, who has had a whirlwind year opening for Canadian icons
Terri Clark and the James
"No matter where life takes me, Christmas is about being with those I love, and it’s my hope that this season, no one feels ‘alone tonight.’”
Get your tickets ($20) online at www.oliviamaegraham.com/event-details-registration/olivia-mae-graham to join her on December 1, and experience an afternoon filled with heartwarming music, community spirit, and holiday cheer. Tickets are on sale now - don’t miss your chance to celebrate the season with Olivia Mae Graham.
Doors open at 1 p.m. and the show starts at 2 p.m. You can join the ‘Mae Flower Community’ for Olivia updates (https://www.oliviamaegraham. com/), and visit her YouTube channel to catch her series, “The Moments In Between (TMI),” where she opens up about life on the road, navigating the music industry, and staying grounded.
Olivia Mae Graham opened for Canadian country star Terri Clark at Burning Kiln Winery earlier this summer.
Barker Band.
BELLA
Meet our Pet of the Week: Bella, a lively 5-month-old kitten who was rescued outside Waterford Home Building Centre. After dodging everyone, she finally bonded with her new owner, Victoria Bezzo. Originally thought to be a boy and named "Steve," it was soon discovered that Bella was actually a girl! In this photo, she’s totally exhausted from her "hard work" of unfolding Bezzo's laundry. Don’t be fooled by her relaxed pose though— Bella is usually full of crazy energy!
REMEMBRANCE DAY
Holiday cheer on the farm
BRENDA MOSER
Advocate Correspondent
Generations Marketplace is celebrating the Christmas season and they are inviting everyone to drop into their farm at 200 Conc. 13, Townsend during their Christmas Open House, Friday, Nov. 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
You can enjoy a warm beverage and seasonal treat while you browse and shop what their amazing artisans are offering. You can also shop the homemade preserves and pasture-raised meats. You’re sure to find something for those on your Christmas list.
If you have children, you may want to sign them up for one of their Homesteading classes. On Nov.23, they will be hosting a burlap wreath class, and on Dec. 14 they will be working on handmade crafts and gifts. Classes are open to children ages 6-14 years, run from 10-11:30 a.m. and are just $25+tax.
Generations Marketplace offers a wide range of classes for all ages, young and not so young, throughout the year so be sure to check out what they offer. You can do this by going to their website at www.generationsmarketplace.ca.
A walk about the farm, regardless of the season, is always interesting and Farmer Heidi is a great guide.
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Trinity Church 80 Colborne St. S. Simcoe
Saturday November 23, 2024 10 am to 2 pm
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Bake Table, Gourmet Deli, Puzzles, Games and Books, Raffle table, Handmade items, Jewellery, Christmas Table, Downton Abbey Table Silent Auction
Hot Lunch served 11 am to 1 pm
CARILLON BELLES CHORUS TRIVIA NIGHT
Friday, November 22, 7:30pm
Immanuel Christian Reformed Church, 95 Oak Street, Simcoe, accessible entrance to Hall
The Carillon Belles are hosting a Trivia Night!
Come join the Chorus for a fun evening of trivia and musical entertainment.
$15.00 per person admission. Tickets may be obtained by contacting Janet Lala at 519-583-0514
lalaandgal@gmail.com or Sharon Jeffries at 519-4285298 sbjeffries96@yahoo.com
MUDMEN at LaSalette Historic Church
88 LaSalette Rd - LaSalette
Sat Nov 16 - doors open 6:30pm concert 7pm
Advance tickets $35 at the Door $40
Call/text Lori 519 -718- 0006 for tickets
An evening of music and entertainment at a beautiful event venue with amazing acoustics!! Cash Bar
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
Frosty Fair
8:30 a.m. - 12 noon
Penny Table, Blind Auction, Baked goods, knitting, Surprise packages and more. Come out and enjoy. All welcome.
St. James United Church 150 Colborne St. S. Simcoe
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER
The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526 - Darts
Starting at 7:00 pm
Join us for a friendly game of DARTS. Registration at 6:45. 519443-5588 or www.teetervillelegionbranch526.ca 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17
The Wagner Memorial Teeterville Legion Branch 526
Christmas Craft & Vendor Show 11:00 am- 3:00 pm
Free Admission. 519-443-5588 or www.teetervillelegionbranch526.ca 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
Simcoe Seniors Centre 2nd
Annual Christmas Bazaar and Craft Sale
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Free Admission with 40 plus Vendors
Simcoe Recreation Centre 182 South Dr, Simcoe
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
Display Ad - Sizes begin at a business card size for $35 + hst Deadline: Monday prior at
Coming Events Boxed Word Ad in Classified section (50 word max.) - $15 + hst
Simcoe Lions Club cleans lighthouse
ADVOCATE STAFF
info@simcoeadvocate.com
On Saturday, Sept. 28, Simcoe Lions Club’s dedicated Hands-On Committee, led by Chair Mike Edmonds, rallied a small but mighty group of Lions members to tackle a much-needed project – cleaning up the iconic Lions Lighthouse.
“This prestigious structure symbolizes our commitment to the Lions mission of eyesight, and it certainly deserved a little TLC,” said Simcoe Lions Club’s Dave Abbey.
Joining Edmonds were Lions Chuck Fox, Dennis McArthur, Abbey, and Pat De Ruiter. Armed with 4,000 litres of wa-
ter and a powerful pressure washer, generously provided by Lion Mike Timmerman, the team got to work blasting away the mold and algae that had accumulated over time in the park.
While the size of the lighthouse was daunting, the group remained undeterred and made impressive progress, successfully removing a significant amount of buildup on the beloved landmark.
“A heartfelt thank you to all the Lions involved in this initiative,” said Abbey.
“Your hard work and dedication to maintaining our community’s icons do not go unnoticed. Together, you exemplified the spirit of service that our club stands for. Great job, everyone!”
Hearing healthcare is not one-size-fits-all, by listening to our clients and asking questions, we can recommend the right solutions for your unique hearing and financial needs. Katie Koebel, Audiologist & Senior Manager,
A team of volunteers from the Simcoe Lions Club recently cleaned the lighthouse
