Goderich Sun July 9, 2026

Goderich Sun

Huron County Economic Development Plan

Huron County Council recently approved the Huron County Economic Development Strategic Plan 2026-2030.

This establishes a five-year framework for the region’s economic development work and a 10-year vision for growth, investment, and business support.

Priorities are built on the department’s core service areas including investment and industry development, tourism and local food, and the Local Immigration Partnership.

According to the Huron Chamber of Commerce, the plan provides important context for ongoing work with members and municipalities.

“Our work is naturally connected to the County’s work in many areas, especially where business conditions, workforce needs, investment and community development overlap,” said Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce.

“A clear County plan helps partners understand where those points of connection exist and where collaboration can be most useful.”

Huron County Council also discusses the importance of the Port of Goderich.

The plan identifies logistics capacity as one of Huron County’s strengths, including the Port of Goderich, rail access, road connections and proximity to larger urban markets.

Carmichael says the Chamber will review the plan with attention to areas most relevant to members.

In dire need of resurfacing, the Goderich track will be restored and enhanced following a successful fundraising initiative by the Goderich Track Rebuild Committee over the past few years.

According to the committee, this project will not only improve safety, but also accessibility, and will include the installation of a more durable polyurethane surface and the creation of a high jump area.

Based on the recent tender closing, the total estimated cost of the project is over $800,000.

“Our fundraising committee is so excited to see this project finally starting to come to life,” stated Corey Boyle, member of the fundraising committee.

“We are so grateful to all who have supported us so far. There are many large fundraising initiatives ongoing in the Goderich community, so we don’t take lightly the generosity of those who have donated to us over the past few years.”

According to Avon Maitland District Secondary Board (AMDSB) the project will begin in the coming weeks, thanks in large part to the fundraising efforts of the school community, fundraising committee, and the board’s contribution of capital funds.

Goderich track restoration project given the green light

The fundraising project is still in need of donations, says Boyle. Upwards of $200,000 is still needed in order to fully support the project.

The committee will continue to post on its social media pages about upcoming fundraising efforts or updates.

Zehr’s Goderich will host a barbecue on August 1 and September 5 to raise funds for this project.

Any donations to this project can visit the Canada Helps page, linked on the committee’s Facebook account.

Donations can also be made by cash or cheque and sent to GDCI. Cheques should be made out to AMDSB with GDCI Track Rebuild in the memo.

The GDCI track was completed in the 1980s, and now after nearly 50 years of use,

the track will be restored and enhanced.

The track, originally resurfaced in the early 2000s, is frequently used for school, regional and district track and field meets.

With this upgrade, the track and sports field could provide students and the community a place for recreation and sport for the next 50 years.

Since the last update on this project, the committee has provided a list of most recent donors:

Walmart, Goderich - $1,000

Hogervorst family - $5,000

Madge family (in memory of their daughter Harlyn) - $1,000

Barb and Richard Ottwell - $5,000

Domino’s Pizza, Goderich - $1,000

Goderich Lions Club - $7,000

Blyth Lions Club - $300

GPS School Council - $1,124

Pickleball tournament proceeds organised by Sarah Bender - $3,000

Waste Management - $1,100

Jeffries family/Tim Hortons - $1,000

Bluewater Body and Fender - $5,000

Compass Minerals and Unifor 16-0$4,000 (in addition to previous $5,000 donation)

Trevor Bazinet - $1,000

Boston Pizza, Goderich - $260

Sommers Brothers Construction - $1,000

Goderich Slo-Pitch League - $500

Chamas family - $1,000

Brittany Baechler - $1,000

Woodbine Pork Inc. (the Kraft family)$1,000

The Sutherland family - $1,000

Dames Rocket - $1,000

ContinuIT Corp - $2,500

Volleyball tournament – second one or-

ganised by Jaclyn Nutma - $1,510

Dave, Richard and Wendy Million (in memory of their late wife/mother Ruth)$1,500

Goderich Oldtimers Soccer Club - $1,500

George Gould and family (in memory of their late wife/mother Margaret Kovacs, who was the top fundraiser in the track building program of 1977, and also the number one female to complete the 10k run and always proud that Goderich could host track and field events) - $5,900

Rick and Mandy Regier and family$1,000

Race Huron - $500 (in addition to previous donation of $2,100)

Rexall, Goderich - $500

Township of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh (ACW) - $3,050

Ground rules for election season: Debate ideas, not people

Municipal election campaigns have a way of bringing out both the best and the worst in our communities. Unfortunately, it often doesn't take long for the worst to surface.

As I sat down to write this editorial, I couldn't help but think back to one I wrote more than 20 years ago. Different election. Different candidates. Same disappointing behaviour. It seems some things never change.

Every election season begins with optimism. Candidates step forward, residents become engaged and important conversations begin about the future of our communities. Before long, however, the conversation too often shifts from policies and ideas to personal attacks, rumours, online insults and attempts to tear others down. It doesn't have to be that way.

If you support a candidate, tell us why. Explain what qualities make them a good fit for council or mayor. Share examples of their leadership, their community involvement or their vision for the future. Give readers a reason to support them.

What you don't need to do is attack someone else. Building one candidate up should never require tearing another candidate down.

We've all seen political advertising that spends more time criticizing the opponent than explaining why someone deserves your vote. Those ads rarely persuade anyone. More often, they leave people shaking their heads at the negativity.

The same principle applies here.

As your community newspaper, we welcome letters endorsing candidates. We believe readers benefit from hearing why residents believe someone is qualified to serve. Healthy debate is part of democracy.

What we will not publish are letters that exist primarily to insult, shame or slander another candidate. Disagreement is inevitable. Hate is not.

Criticism of policies, voting records or public decisions is fair game when it is factual and respectful. Personal attacks, unfounded allegations, character assassination and hateful rhetoric have no place in these pages.

That is not censorship. It is editorial responsibility.

Grant Haven Media has always believed our role is to encourage informed discussion, not amplify division. There is already more than enough anger circulating on social media. Our newspaper will not become another platform for it.

The same goes beyond letters to the editor.

Let's put an end to vandalizing campaign signs. Let's stop hiding behind keyboards to spread rumours or at-

tack neighbours because they support a different candidate. Let's resist the temptation to stir up outrage simply because it generates attention.

It is tacky. It is unnecessary. And quite frankly, our communities deserve better.

Whether you agree with them or not, every person who puts their name on a ballot is making a significant personal commitment. They are volunteering countless hours, opening themselves and their families to public scrutiny, and stepping into one of the most challenging and often thankless roles in local government.

That alone deserves a basic level of respect.

Over the next three months, voters will have important decisions to make. Those decisions should be based on ideas, qualifications, experience and vision, not who can deliver the sharpest insult or the loudest accusation.

So here are our ground rules.

If you want to endorse a candidate, we'll gladly publish your letter, provided it meets our usual standards. Tell readers why that person has earned your support. Let their strengths speak for themselves.

But if your goal is to spread hate, launch personal attacks or use our pages to settle political scores, your letter won't appear in this newspaper.

The campaign trail doesn't have to become a mud pit. Let's prove that respectful debate is still possible.

Choosing Grace: The lightness of summer

selves spending that time with family and friends. Even when our schedules are full, there’s something about summer that invites us to breathe a little deeper.

July opens the world a little wider, as the days stretch long and the heat finds us.

The evenings glow soft and golden helping us to slow down after long days of sunshine, heat and swimming time.

Life seems to move at a gentler pace, and we find our-

Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!

Publisher

Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com

Editor

Kathleen Smith • kate@goderichsun.com

Graphic Design / Sales Inquiries

Sarah Cairns • info@goderichsun.com

Business Development

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Contributors

Annette Gerdis, Tanya MacIntyre, David Yates, Paul Knowles, Brittany McKay, John Miner

36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 info@goderichsun.com | 519.655.2341 | granthaven.com

Maybe it’s the heat or maybe it’s the light. Maybe it’s just the way the lake looks on a calm morning, a sheet of glass, mirroring the sky, or the sound of children laughing somewhere on the street nearby.

Summer has a way of reminding us that not every moment needs to be productive. Lazy days allow us to cele-

brate our beautiful country and take in a baseball game. Some moments are meant to be savoured whether it’s a slow walk, a quiet coffee or tea on the porch or a conversation that lingers long after the sun has set.

This month let’s make room for another sunset, music, another coffee on the porch and rest.

Let’s look for joy that doesn’t need to be earned and the simple grace of being exactly where we are.

Gateway receives $15,000 from Lions Club Goderich to support student employment and rural health

ALEXA HUGILL Sun Contributor

The Lions Club of Goderich presented Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) board members and staff with a donation of $15,000.

This generous donation will allow Gateway CERH to support its initiatives and invest in the next generation of rural health leaders by providing students with valuable employment and experiential learning opportunities.

It will also enable Gateway CERH to continue advancing rural health research across our local communities.

Gateway CERH sincerely appreciates the ongoing support of the Lions Club of Goderich, which has been a valued donor for many years.

Their contributions play a vital role in supporting local students and the Gateway CERH initiatives they work on.

For more information about Gateway CERH please visit, https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/.

By choosing Ontario foods, you’re getting delicious,

AMGH staff celebrate halfway mark in Magnetic Moments campaign to bring MRI machine to Goderich

GODERICH SUN STAFF

info@goderichsun.com

Another milestone has been achieved in the Magnetic Moments campaign, as Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) staff and volunteers gathered celebrate reaching the half-way mark of their $6.5 million fundraising goal.

According to AMGH Foundation, less than seven months into the campaign, service clubs, individual and corporate donors and municipalities have stepped up to bring an MRI machine to Huron County.

“It’s been phenomenal to watch the progress on this fundraising campaign, and what a motivated and generous community we have showing up with such strong support for this MRI,” admitted Dr. Tiffaney Kittmer, Magnetic Moments campaign chair.

To date, the total raised is $3,507,539.

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NOTICE TO GDCI GRADUATES

The AVM J. A. Sully and Goderich Royal Canadian Legion Branch 109 (Lancaster) SCHOLARSHIP

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 109 Goderich invites you to apply for the above named scholarship if • you are a GDCI graduate with high standing and • have completed one full academic year at a Canadian university in Medicine, Dentistry or Engineering, or if you have completed two years in any Honours course at a Canadian university as an undergraduate.

Application forms may be obtained in person at the Goderich Legion or by contacting the Guidance Office at GDCI. The scholarship has a value of $2,000 and the deadline to submit your application is July 31, 2026

Completed applications can be dropped off or mailed to the Goderich Legion, Attention: Scholarship Committee Chair, 56 Kingston St, Goderich, ON N7A 3K4.

Note: If closed, phone the Legion at 519-524-9282 to arrange a date and time to pick up or drop off your application.

up.

Gerrit Dykman inducted into the OSA Hall of Fame Gateway making sense of mental health in rural areas

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Gerrit Dykman recently received word that he was inducted into the Ontario Shuffleboard Association’s (OSA) Hall of Fame under the Special Award category.

Over the years, Dykman has been a tremendous asset to the shuffleboard community and a dedicated promotor of the game.

According to the nomination written by Dotty who serves on the OSA Board of Directors, Dykman began playing in Florida approximately 15 years ago and has continued his involvement in Goderich.

Over the years, Dykman has organised two OSA tournaments in Goderich and has contributed to many other OSA events.

He has participated in six ISA tournaments, including travelling to Texas a week early to assist with tournament set-

Similarly, Dykman attended a CNSA tournament in Nova Scotia, and arrived days in advance to help prepare for the event.

During the COVID-19 pandemic when indoor facilities and clubs were closed down, Dykman helped install four courts in a friend’s barn so players could continue to compete.

Last summer, Dykman brought templates to the club in St. Mary’s and assisted with repainting the courts, which enabled the club to host a tournament.

He currently serves as a board member with the OSA and as a director with the Canadian National Shuffleboard Association (CNSA).

“I believe Gerrit is a highly deserving recipient of a Special Hall of Fame Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport of shuffleboard,” wrote Dotty.

SHOP LOCAL.

A Goderich-based organisation continues to take great strides in dealing with mental health in the farming community in rural southwestern Ontario.

Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) is headed by Seaforth area’s Gwen Devereaux, who has known through her years of nursing and her extensive medical career that mental health in the farming and agricultural community, is something that is often overlooked.

Devereaux and her husband are also farmers in Huron County, and she believes the stigma attached to mental illness, keeps those who really need to understand what they are going through from accessing nearby resources.

Gateway was founded in 2008, as a notfor-profit organisation with a charitable status, governed by a volunteer board of directors.

Since its inception, Gateway has been committed to provide valuable resources and support to rural communities, addressing their unique healthcare needs and challenges, versus enabling rural citizens to take control of their own health.

Gateway’s mission is to improve the health and quality of life of all rural residents, through research, education and communication.

The organisation continues to foster the growth of the rural economy, through partnerships with five local academic and research centres and seven area hospitals.

Gateway understands the pressures, stress and isolation that a farmer can experience throughout their life.

Tom Melady, a farmer from near Dublin was open about what he went through in his past in a recent interview.

He said he had an episode of depression

during a severely stressful cropping year in 1992, and although he says his experience was 34 years ago, he knows the same stresses exist today.

Finances, market uncertainty, human relationships, overextending, loneliness, and cropping pressures – all these create uncertainty, and a load of stress for farmers.

As a friend of Devereaux, Melady said she helped him through his difficulty with conversation and understanding.

Devereaux also rallied farming friends to help him through it, and with her farming experience and a nursing profession, she has brought this knowledge to Gateway. In turn, this has brought focus to many rural health issues that may have been overlooked in the past.

“Farming can be very stressful at times, and when farmers recognise that stress, they and those around them can develop strategies to ease that pressure, put on themselves,” said Melady.

When Gateway began the Farmer’s Safety and Well-Being Program, it also developed SHED Talks (Sustaining Healthy Farms Through Empowerment and Dedication).

These SHED Talks project focuses on building connections and empowering an agricultural community in Huron and Perth counties.

Further, it focuses on the goal of reducing social isolation and lessening the daily stressors that farmers experience.

As the federal and provincial governments have realised the importance of dealing with rural mental health, Gateway has also received $100,000 through the Canadian Cancer Society and MaRs Discovery District Rural and Remote Cancer Screening Challenge.

More information is available at gatewayruralhealth.ca

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority honours Conservation Foundation with Decade Award

For work completed since 1970s, during Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority’s (ABCA) 80th anniversary year, ABCA’s Foundation received a Decade Award.

This award recognizes contributions to the watershed community, since ABCF’s inception in 1974.

“This year, during ABCA’s 80th anniversary, it is a wonderful time to honour ABCF for more than 50 years of work in the watershed community,” said Ray Chartrand, ABCA Chair.

“Thanks to the current and former ABCF Board of Directors and thanks to dedicated volunteers and generous donors, the Conservation Foundation has fostered partnerships and supported positive community action for more than five decades.”

The ABCF is a community organisation and corporation with its Board of Directors as set out in the Province of Ontario Letters Patent. The Foundation is distinct from ABCA but the Foundation shares, with ABCA, the values of protecting water quality, soil health, and enhancement of habitat for all living things.

The Foundation works with conserva-

tion authorities and the community to help foster partnerships and support action to improve watersheds for healthier communities and healthier people.

“On behalf of the current and past directors of the ABCF board, I am honoured to accept this special Decade Award in honour of the Conservation Foundation’s work since 1974,” Charles Miner, ABCF Chair said.

“What we have accomplished has been achieved thanks to the dedication of hard-working volunteers and the generosity of the people in this watershed community who donate and who support our work and our fundraising events.”

ABCF has established commemorative woods and supports accessible trails, wetlands and natural areas, promotes conservation area improvements, and conservation education.

The ABCF facilitated creation of the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy, which is governed by its own volunteer Board of Directors, in the historic area of the Huron Tract.

During its anniversary year in 2026, ABCA is presenting Decade Awards to honour deserving recipients for each decade of the conservation authority’s histo -

ry.

went to member

Huron Chamber launches Huron Accolades to celebrate local businesses and organisations

Recently the Huron Chamber of Commerce launched Huron Accolades, a new community recognition platform to give residents and visitors any easy way to share great local experiences.

This platform builds on the Chamber’s 20-year history of celebrating local excellence through the Spirit of Success Awards. The platform is designed to celebrate the businesses and organisations that make Huron County such a strong place to live, work, visit and do business.

“Huron County is full of businesses and organisations doing excellent work every day, and we wanted to make it easier for

people to recognise those moments when they happen,” explained Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce.

According to Carmichael, Huron Accolades gives people a simple way to share their love for local business.

Whether someone received outstanding service, enjoyed a memorable meal, found the perfect local product, worked with a helpful contractor, they can send an accolade and tell that story.

Carmichael explains that the platform is designed to support both recognition and visibility.

“Huron Accolades gives the public a simple way to say, ‘that was great’, while also giving local businesses meaningful

testimonials they can share and celebrate,” Carmichael added.

When a business or organisations receives an accolade, it can be shared on social media or websites as a testimonial.

Carmichael explains that for small businesses, that kind of authentic community feedback can be especially valuable, reinforcing trust.

In addition to serving as a public recognition tool, every accolade may also support a nomination consideration for local award programs including Spirit of Success Awards.

Carmichael adds that a few words of appreciation can become both a testimonial for the business and a potential step toward broader community recognition.

This new platform is part of the Chamber’s wider effort to encourage people to shop local and support businesses throughout Huron County.

“Shop local is not only about where people spend their money,” said Carmichael. “It is also about how we talk about local businesses, how we recommend them to others, and how we celebrate the people behind them.”

The process is simple. Visit Huron Accolades, indicate the business or organisation you want to recognise, and share a few words about what made that experience stand out.

Visit https://huroncc.awardify.io to send an accolade.

Huron County Museum celebrates 75th anniversary

around the collection of Jo -

With a vision to preserve and share the rich history of Huron County through his extensive collection of artifacts, Mr. Neill’s museum was far ahead of its time, and on July 4 the museum celebrated its 75th anniversary. When most museums were strictly ‘hands-off’, he created a museum filled

with hand-crafted models that visitors are still encouraged to try out today.

This milestone anniversary provided an opportunity to honour Mr. Neill’s legacy while celebrating the museum’s ongoing role in preserving the stories, traditions and heritage that define Huron County’s unique rural character.

“We are proud to celebrate this important milestone and to honour the vision of Joseph Herbert Neill,” said Elizabeth French-Gibson, Senior Curator.

“For 75 years, the museum has connected people with the stories that have shaped our community.”

Goderich Celebrates Canada Day 2026

It's so hot, I just saw a bird blow on a worm before he ate it.

Safe travels to those brave enough to face the 400 highway series to relax by a lake for a few days

Huron Survey: Launch of aging in place

ALEXA HUGILL

Sun Contributor

Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) is inviting adults aged 55 and older living independently in Huron County to participate in the Aging in Place – Huron Survey, a new pilot research initiative designed to better understand the experiences, needs, and priorities of older adults in the community.

As Huron County's population continues to age, more people wish to remain in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. However, the ability to age in place is influenced by many factors, including access to healthcare, transportation, social connections, housing, technology, and mobility.

Understanding these experiences is essential to ensuring that rural communities

can continue to support healthy, independent ageing.

The Aging in Place - Huron pilot program was inspired by the World Health Organization's Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) framework, which recognizes that healthy ageing extends beyond medical care.

The framework focuses on helping people stay healthy and independent by supporting key areas like mobility, cognition, vision, hearing, nutrition, and emotional health. It also considers support in a person’s environment and community that helps them stay connected and live independently.

By adopting this holistic approach, Gateway CERH aims to better understand the realities of ageing in Huron County and identify opportunities to support older

adults in living healthier, more independent lives.

The Aging in Place – Huron survey will gather information directly from older adults about their daily experiences, the challenges they face, the support they currently use, and the services they would like to see available in their communities.

The findings will help inform Gateway CERH's future research while contributing to a stronger understanding of the needs of older adults across Huron County.

The information collected will also help identify opportunities to provide new initiatives and support that enable people to remain healthy, independent, and connected as they age.

Participation in the survey is voluntary, and all responses will remain confidential.

The survey is open to adults aged 55 years and older who live in Huron County. Gateway CERH encourages all eligible residents to participate and invites family members, caregivers, community organizations, and local partners to help share the survey throughout the county.

Your voice has an impact in Huron County. By participating, you are helping to fuel important research that can help create a healthier, age-friendly community in the future.

For more information about Aging in Place - Huron, please visit https://www. gatewayruralhealth.ca/aging-in-place-huron

For more information, contact: Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health at info@gatewayruralhealth.ca or 519-6121053.

Starter Company Plus 2026 intake opens July 1

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Starter Company Plus is a competitive program that draws strong interest each year.

The program’s training and support equips entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and coaching to help them launch, grow, or purchase a small business.

Participants also have a change to receive a grant of up to $5,000.

Aspiring and established small business owners in Huron County are invited to apply for the 2026 intake of the Starter Company Plus program, opened July 1.

“This program gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to step back from day-to-day operations and focus on growing their

business,” explained Brittany Wise, Manager of the Huron Business Centre.

“Through training, mentorship, and practical planning tools, participants gain the confidence and knowledge needed to make informed decisions and support long-term success.”

Applications are reviewed as they are received, and selected applicants may be contacted by a Business Advisor for an interview to discuss their application and suitability for the program.

According to Wise, the program’s training and support components will run from September until November 2026.

Sessions will be offered on business planning, financial forecasting, marketing and more. Participants will also receive personalised one-on-one business advi-

sory support from experienced local business advisors.

“Each year, Starter Company Plus attracts entrepreneurs who are ready to take the next step in launching or growing their business,” added Tricia Denomme, Business Advisor with the Huron Business Centre and lead Advisor for Starter Company Plus.

“The program provides participants with valuable guidance, practical feedback, and business planning support to help them refine their ideas, strengthen their operations and move forward with confidence.”

To qualify for grant consideration, participants must complete a Business Plan Package, which includes a business plan, detailed cash

Canada Fiction Fest celebrates Canadian storytelling

festival that ran from June 21 until July 4.

Fear writes two series, with a third beginning this summer, all published by Level Best Books.

Bringing together 121 authors from 11 provinces and territories, Canada Fiction Fest offered a two-week celebration of Canadian storytelling.

This free, national online book festival was created to showcase Canadian fiction writers and help readers discover new voices from across the country.

Featuring a virtual author showcase along with 36 live online events, including readings, panel discussions, author conversations and genre-focused sessions, the event provided a platform to give Canadian fiction writers more visibility.

Canada Fiction Fest is a platform to connect readers with Canadian authors.

While the publishing landscape continues to evolve, many authors – particularly debut, independent and midlist writers – must find creative ways to build readership and reach new audiences.

Canada Fiction Fest highlights the depth and range of fiction being written in Canada, especially in a market often overshadowed by the larger American publishing industry.

As an author from Wellington County, Ivanka Fear was part of the group of 121 authors involved in this virtual

As a Canadian author it’s important to Fear to feature settings that inspire her and showcase the Canadian geography and identity.

“I think readers appreciate seeing places they are familiar with in books,” explained Fear.

“Using locales I know as a starting point to create my setting makes it more authentic, but because it is fictional, it allows me creative freedom.”

Fear is a Slovenian-born, Canadian author who has been writing novels ever since retiring from teaching.

With her latest mystery novel ‘How Deep is the Body’, Fear masterfully blends domestic drama with criminal intrigue.

Set against the stark, unforgiving Canadian winter, the landscape itself becomes a character – cold, isolating and filled with secrets.

“Having so many Canadian authors in one spot highlights the amazing talent we have right here in our own country,” said Fear.

“With so many books published each year, it’s difficult to stand out, and a venue like this joins together people

flow projections, SWOT analysis, and other key planning tools.

As part of the final stage, applicants will deliver a 10-minute pitch to an external Grant Review Committee for a chance to receive a grant of up to $5,000.

The program welcomes entrepreneurs of all ages and stages, offering support tailored to their business goals.

Not all applicants will be contacted or accepted.

To be considered, interested entrepreneurs must submit a completed application by 4 p.m. on July 31.

To learn more about the program visit www.HuronCounty.ca/economic-development

By Jake Grant

What is the birthstone of July?

What is the fictional island in Mamma Mia called? 3. What is the capital city of Australia?

What do you call a beginner surfer?

What is the Italian name for ice cream? 6. What '80s girl band sang “Cruel Summer?”

7. What summer seafood is now a delicacy but was once considered “poor man’s protein?”

8. Which Harry Potter character died on the beach?

9. The person in charge of officiating a baseball game is called what?

10. What is the standard distance for Olympic target archery?

A history of Goderich: From 1840s to 1850s

Founded in 1826 by Dr. William ‘Tiger’ Dunlop and The Canada Company, the settlement of Goderich was soon a bustling urban centre for the Huron Tract by the 1840s and 1850s.

With a population of about 1,000, agriculture had evolved beyond the pioneer stage at this point in Goderich’s history.

Although limited services were provided for the immigrants who settled the town, a road network was soon laid out to open the interior and connect the Huron Tract with other settlements in what was known as Upper Canada.

The 1840s brought rapid development, a result of immigration trends and soon the Huron Tract area had two flourishing towns, Goderich and Stratford.

Through the 1830s and 1840s, Goderich grew into an agricultural settlement, and while the harbour served local needs, it did not yet have substantial importance.

During the 1830s Goderich expanded with the construction of homes, commercial buildings, and public infrastructure.

Thomas Mercer Jones, another Canada Company administrator, built the Park House mansion around 1839.

The 1840s brought rapid development, a result both of general immigration trends and new Company leasing policy.

By 1846, the town had a functioning harbour, though docks were in poor condition, and a lighthouse was under construction.

By 1850, roads connected Goderich to Wilmot Township and London, which helped facilitate trade and further settlement.

Research indicates that the Canada Company built piers to protect ships in the harbour between 1830 and 1850.

At that time, the harbour served local needs but had not yet expanded to serve substantial commercial importance.

The Goderich lighthouse, the first on the Canadian side of Lake Huron, opened in 1847, with a tower and the keeper’s house.

The downtown Square was designed and developed between 1840 and up until the mid 1890s, and in its early days, contained the main office of the Canada Company, which helped develop the area.

The design of the square is attributed to John Galt of the Canada Company, inspired by ancient Roman city plans.

The downtown core of Goderich was designed to suit the local geography and inspired by the first century BC city planning concepts of the Roman Architect Vitruvius. His designs were the inspiration of similar centralised town plans in Europe.

The Square’s ordered symmetry is centred on an octagonal shaped public space known locally as ‘Market Square’ or ‘Courthouse Square’ for having been the site of a market since the 1840s and the location of the County Courthouse since 1857.

Eight radiating principal roads stem

from the central square in alignment with the eight points of the compass and is a contract to the more standardised grid-pattern design of many North American settlements of this period.

The Huron County Gaol was erected between 1839 and 1841, features an octagonal central block, to ensure constant supervision of prisoners.

Construction of this prison with its thirdfloor courtroom enabled Huron to qualify as a district separate from London, with Goderich as its seat.

Throughout its history, the gaol housed inmates for crimes from misdemeanours to criminal convictions, including prisoners who were hanged for their crimes of murder. Men, women and children all spent time in the gaol.

The railway arrived in June 1858, and a grain elevator was erected in 1859.

It wasn’t until the 1850s and 1860s when Great Lakes shipping expanded.

Harbour Hill was graded in 1850 just as fishing became an important part of the community, and the pier was soon lined with fish shanties.

The town was growing and becoming cultivated.

Once officially named a settlement and taking shape through laying the foundations of streets and the square, the area soon faced elections in 1835 and 1836 and proved as a test to the loyalists and the radicals.

In both elections, two candidates vied for support of the same 60 voters.

Although there were over 4,000 inhabitants in the Huron Tract by 1835, only freehold British male subjects over 21 were entitled to vote, which kept the num-

ribbons in their bonnets as Union Jacks floated from nearly every corner of town.

His arrival was heralded by cheering supporters at Feltie Fisher’s Steamboat Hotel on the river flats and then taken to the hustings on the Goderich Square.

Despite three days of voting, Captain Dunlop was declared the winner with 35 votes to Van Egmond’s 25.

This defeat drove Van Egmond into the arms of radicals.

Despite a lacklustre career in his first year of politics, in the second election of 1836, Dunlop issued a loyalty manifesto asking voters to support their King, country, laws, liberties, and everything freemen hold sacred, as well as denouncing those wishing to sever Canada from the Crown.

For Van Egmond, this second election was a humiliating political disaster, reviled as a traitor.

He died in a York gaol within a year and a half awaiting trial for treason on his part in the 1837 rebellion.

Voters in Huron proved they were loyal to the Crown, as it rejected radicalism in both elections and continued to attract loyalists to immigrate from England.

During the first half of the 19th century, Canada became known as the land of hope, as everything was new, and moving forward.

ber of eligible voters to just 60.

According to historian Yates, electors had to travel to Goderich from all over present-day Huron and Perth counties to declare their ballot. The future of the province was at stake as these elections became tests of the Huron Tract area’s loyalty to the Crown.

In 1835, it was ruled that the Huron Tract was entitled to send its own representative to the Upper Canadian Legislature in York.

In the 1835 election there were just two choices – Tory or Reformer.

In the previous year, 45-year-old Captain Robert Dunlop, Royal Navy war hero and brother of Dr. William ‘Tiger’ Dunlop, was chosen as the Tory champion.

He campaigned on his loyalty to the Crown, rather than defend the Canada Company’s incompetence.

For Huron Reformers, their choice was Anthony Van Egmond, who emigrated to Upper Canada from the Netherlands in 1828.

According to Yates, no other family worked harder to open the Huron Tract than the Van Egmonds, and in 1829, Susanne Van Egmond harvested the first wheat in the Huron Tract.

Van Egmond and his sons constructed major portions of the Huron and Lond Roads to allow access into the new settlement.

However, the cash strapped Canada Company refused to honour its agreement to pay cash for Van Egmond’s labour, giving reason to hate the system.

On election day, June 29, 1835, Captain Dunlop was paraded into towns by his mostly Scots supporters who wore blue

In a letter written by Catherine Parr Traill, she describes Canada as a land with constant excitement on the minds of emigrants, particularly in settled townships where the arts, sciences, agriculture, manufacturing industries were advancing.

Once townships were developed and roads connecting the settlements were created, there was a wave of British migration to Canada in the 19th century. Between 1815 and 1850 Canada received almost one million settlers.

In what was once the wilderness, and eventually laid out into townships, the Huron Tract area continued to develop, and Goderich alongside it.

Despite hardships, industry continued to develop in the area and loyalist immigrants stayed faithful to the Crown and rejected the radicalism that was broadening across other colonies.

As a result of the lifework of the men who opened the roads, felled the trees, built the farmsteads, tilled the fields, and reaped the harvests, and of the women who made the homes, bore and nursed the children, and ennobled domestic life in the Huron Tract, the area continued to thrive and develop.

From a howling wilderness prior to The Canada Company surveying the area, to a cultivated and developing society during the 1830s and 1840s, Goderich was finally incorporated as a town in 1850.

This is an ongoing series of historical features to tell the story of Goderich, in each issue of the Goderich Sun, from June 2026 until June 2027, in anticipation of its bicentennial.

Historical events that made

Goderich: Searching for oil, finding salt

a fine flake salt. However, as wood fuel was consumed the cost escalated.

Even though dazzling white salt from Goderich outclassed the more famous English salt by winning first prize at the 1867 Paris Exhibition, mass production of salt in Goderich did not begin until 1880.

In September of 1858, James Miller Williams discovered oil while attempting to drill a water well in the Ontario town of Oil Springs, in Lambton County.

The discovery of oil brought hundreds of speculators and workers into southwestern Ontario, and many profitable refineries were started in nearby towns such as Petrolia.

With oil excitement at its height, a company was formed in Goderich by local merchants and politicians with the intent of striking oil.

The Goderich Petroleum Company secured $10,000 in capital and contracted local mill owner Samuel Platt to oversee the drilling process.

Platt contacted and hired Peter MacEwan to perform the actual drilling. As a chief driller, MacEwan had successfully drilled over 20 oil wells since 1861 and was well known for his experience.

On November 17, 1865, drilling commenced on the north bank of the Maitland River in what was then known as Maitlandville, or present day Saltford.

Platt and MacEwan drilled to a depth of 686-feet but failed to strike oil.

The Goderich Petroleum Company had exhausted its funds and the investors decided to abandon the project.

The local municipal council, optimistic that striking oil was still a possibility, offered up to $1,500 to anyone who would drill to a depth of 1,000-feet in search of the black gold.

Platt and MacEwan continued, and after 102 days of drilling, were compensated for their efforts.

The joint stock company known as Goderich Petroleum Company that funded the drilling efforts, changed their name to the Goderich Salt Company.

They began to market salt to buyers predominantly in Chicago and Milwaukee throughout the early months of 1867.

The company saw huge profits during the first year of production, and shareholders were paid a 51% dividend.

Production facilities were soon built and by 1872 the facility was producing 21,000 barrels of salt annually.

Workers placed rows of 100 cast iron kettles, carrying 120 to 140 gallons of pumped brine each, on wood-burning furnaces. This evaporation process produced

To streamline the process, mine managers replaced the shallow steel pans with kettles and introduced coal. Still the process proved too expensive and the salt too coarse.

By 1910, managers modernized operations with the vacuum pan process, consisting of one vertical steel tank with internal heating tubes conducting steam. This cost-effective operation produced granular salt crystals widely used for table salt.

Surprisingly, mining directly in Goderich didn't occur until the late 1950s. Engineers finished construction of a mine shaft in 1959 so miners could descend almost 550 meters to crush rock salt for winter roads and water softeners.

A second shaft became operational in 1968, and a third shaft was added in 1983. Since then both the Goderich evaporation and the Goderich salt Mine have both operated in the Town of Goderich.

Compass Minerals’ Goderich salt mine, located 1,800-feet under Lake Huron, is the largest underground salt mine in the world. The mine is as deep as the CN Tower in Toronto is tall. It has operated since 1959 and was acquired by Compass Minerals in 1990.

The rock salt produced at the mine is used to keep citizens in North America safe as they travel through winter snow and ice.

The salt is shipped to hundreds of communities around the Great Lakes and along the St. Lawrence Seaway. Some of the salt is trucked to the Compass Minerals plant less than four kilometers away, to be packaged for distribution and sale at retailers in North America.

The salt is also sold in bulk to manufacturers that make plastics, detergents, disinfectants, and other important products.

The Goderich Evaporation Plant uses mechanical evaporation, the plant produces high-purity, fine- and coarse-grained salt products in packages and in bulk for commercial, agricultural, and industrial applications.

The plant also packages rock salt from the mine that is used for de-icing and water conditioning.

The salt mine is currently owned by Sifto Salt and its parent company Compass Minerals.

The Goderich salt mine is the largest underground salt mine in the world.

The mine extends for three kilometres from the shoreline under Lake Huron and produces nine million tonnes of salt a year.

Goderich Legion Branch 109 celebrates a century of service, remembrance and community

SMITH Editor

Founded in 1926 following the First World War, the Royal Canadian Legion was born through the amalgamation of several veterans’ organisations.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 109 in Goderich was officially chartered in 1926.

It served as an organisation to welcome home veterans returning from war, including the Second World War and provided a place of camaraderie, remembrance and support.

Over the past 10 decades, Branch 109 grew alongside the Goderich community and what began as a place for veterans to gather has evolved into a vibrant community space that welcomes everyone while honouring and supporting veterans.

Throughout its history, Branch 109 has remained committed to preserving remembrance traditions through annual ceremonies, educational initiatives and support of local schools and youth programs.

“Most importantly, Branch 109 strives to provide a welcoming space where friendships are built, volunteers make a difference, and community connections continue to grow,” said President Randy Carroll.

“Today, the Legion remains a place where generations come together, honouring the past while building connections for the future.”

Branch 109 supports the community in countless ways including annual Remembrance Day ceremonies, advocacy for veterans and their families, financial support for

local initiatives, youth programs and scholarships, fundraising events, programming for seniors, weekly social activities, Café 109, support for local charities and service clubs and partnerships with businesses and organisations throughout Huron County.

In a message from President Randy Carroll, he explains that for generations Branch 109 has stood as more than a building, but also a place of remembrance, fellowship, service and community.

Carroll says this anniversary gives the community the opportunity to look back with pride on the stories, photographs, milestones and memories that have carried Branch 109 forward through the decades.

“Every event held, every poppy distributed, every veteran supported, every volunteer hour given, and every act of kindness has added another chapter to the legacy of Branch 109,” explained Carroll.

To commemorate this historic milestone, Branch 109 will host its ‘We’ll Meet Again’ Centenary Gala on Friday, July 17.

The Legion will be transformed into a 1940s wartime dance hall, complete with live swing music by the Lighthouse Swing Band Orchestra.

Vintage vehicles, historical displays, period-inspired décor will assist with the Legion celebrating the people who shaped Branch 109 over the past century.

The event aims to honour not only veterans, but volunteers, members and community supporters who helped make Branch 109 what it is today.

Celebrations are also for the 100th anniversary of The

Royal Canadian Legion. Branch 109 has proudly carried that mission forward, rooted in the values of service, remembrance and community.

From Branch 109’s members, to Ladies Auxiliary, volunteers, staff, community partners and supporters, the dedication over the past 10 decades has allowed Branch 109 to preserve its traditions while growing and adapting for the future.

“As President, I am proud of what this Branch has accomplished, but I am even more excited about what lies ahead,” added Carroll.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten, and that our veterans continue to be supported and that Branch 109 remains a strong and welcoming part of the Goderich community for generations to come.”

The Centenary Gala ‘We’ll Meet Again’ is on Friday, July 17 and will include a champagne reception, cocktail hour by Part II Bistro, professional reception photography, Lighthouse Swing Band Orchestra, dancing until midnight, and Second World Was displays.

For more information follow Goderich Legion on Facebook, or email goderichlegion@gmail.com

Canada Fiction Fest celebrates Canadian storytelling

who love reading and provides that personal touch of being able to get to know the author better.”

Although Fear changes the names of towns and fictionizes them, readers will recognise places such as Goderich in Cold Query, book three of Blue Water Mysteries.

Book four, Deep and Deadly Secrets, which is coming soon, takes place on Lake Huron as well, and book five, coming out next year, is also set on the lake and in a town much like Goderich.

“My books will appeal to those who enjoy a good mystery story, or a psychological thriller, or domestic suspense,” added Fear.

This event provided a chance for readers and authors to connect without leaving their home, making it accessible for everyone.

Many viewers tuned in to the author readings and panels during the event.

Well-known, best-selling, big-five published authors have advantages of having their books on all shelves and a large marketing team and budget to help promote them.

Majority of authors do not fall into this category.

Meeting other readers and authors is a big part of book promotion for Fear, who is doing an extensive book signing tour this summer and she hopes to attend the Goderich Sunday Market a few times.

“I’m grateful to the libraries and stores that carry my books and invite me in for an event,” added Fear.

“I also much appreciate the local media that is willing to promote Canadian authors and books.”

Fear recommends new authors to join in events such as Fiction Fest, as being part of a writing community or group is crucial in a profession where authors often work in isolation.

“This was my first author panel, and with it being virtual, some of the pressure of a live event was alleviated,” Fear added.

“It’s a perfect venue for debut authors as well as multi-times published writers.”

Fear’s newest releases include Deep and Deadly Secrets and book four of Blue Water Mysteries are scheduled to be available soon.

Public Meeting concerning a Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (File Z02-26) affecting the Town of Goderich

TAKE NOTICE that Council of the Corporation of the Town of Goderich will hold a public meeting on August 10th, 2026, at 4:00 PM in the Goderich Town Council Chambers to consider a proposed Zoning By-law Amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act.

Purpose and Effect

The purpose of this amendment to the Town of Goderich Zoning By-law is to allow for the raising and keeping of hens on residential zoned properties in accordance with the requirements and restrictions of the Town’s Animal Control By-law. The Town’s Animal Control By-law has been reviewed separately to permit the raising and keeping of backyard hens under certain requirements and restrictions. This Zoning By-law Amendment is of a housekeeping nature to implement these changes. This amendment applies to the general provisions of the Town of Goderich Zoning By-law and therefore across the entirety of the Town however, hens will only be permitted on residentially zoned properties if the requirements of the Town’s Animal Control By-law are met.

Any Person may attend the public meeting and/or make written or verbal representation either in support or in opposition to the proposed zoning by-law amendment.

Members of the public do not have the right to appeal the decision; only the applicant, the property owner, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, a specified person under the Planning Act or public body that has an interest in the matter, may appeal the decision. Please refer to the County of Huron website for details about appeal rights: https://www.huroncounty.ca/planning-appeal-information

If you wish to be notified of the decision of the Town of Goderich on the proposed zoning by-law amendment, you must make a written request to Andrea Fisher, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk at the contact information below.

Additional Information relating to the proposed zoning by-law amendment is available for inspection during regular office hours at Town Hall; 57 West Street, Goderich ON, www.goderich.ca, 519-5248344 and the County of Huron Planning and Development Department 519-524-8394 x3.

Council meetings are being held in person, with electronic attendance options. Persons wishing to participate in the planning process may send their comments, questions or concerns via email to Hanna Holman, Planner, at hholman@huroncounty.ca (519-524-8394 ext. 3). Please provide comments by July 28th, 2026, to allow them to be incorporated into the staff report and the agenda. Please refer to the file number in all correspondence. Comments will become part of the public record on this file.

If mailing comments, please address to:

Andrea Fisher, Director of Legislative Services/Clerk, Town of Goderich

57 West St. Goderich ON; N7A 2K5 (519) 524-8344

Dated at the Town of Goderich this 9th Day of July 2026

Anyone For Books offers a space to discover and reconnect with the joy of reading

KATHLEEN SMITH Editor

After a rewarding career as a professor at Conestoga College, Dubravka Bright decided that retirement was the perfect time to turn a lifelong passion into something to share with others.

Anyone For Books is Bright’s newest venture, a business opening in Goderich. This new business offers a carefully curated selection of new and used books, along with book-themed gifts and merchandise for readers of all ages.

“Reading has always been an important part of my life, and opening Anyone For Books is the realisation of a dream that combines my love of books, learning and community,” shared Bright.

“What began as a personal hobby has grown into a bookstore where I hope people will feel welcome to browse, discover and reconnect with the joy of reading.”

Choosing Goderich to open a business was an easy decision for Bright, as she admires the community’s welcoming spirit and vibrant downtown.

Wanting to create a space that adds to the town’s unique character, Bright remains hopeful that Anyone For Books will give both residents and visitors another reason to explore, linger and enjoy everything Goderich has to offer.

“Whether someone is searching for a favourite author, looking for their next great read, or shopping for a unique gift for a fellow book lover, I hope they’ll find something special,” added Bright.

As someone who believes in lifelong learning and wellness, Bright is also excited to expand what the store offers soon.

Having recently become a certified yoga instructor, Bright will soon introduce yoga classes beginning in September.

“My vision is for Anyone For Books to become a place that nurtures both the mind and the body and is a welcoming space where people can enjoy the benefits of reading, mindfulness and movement,” Bright explained.

Plans for Anyone For Books also includes a variety of community events that bring people together through a shared love of books and learning including a book club, meet-the-local-author events, and wellness workshops.

“I want Anyone For Books to be more than a place to shop,” added Bright.

“I hope it becomes a gathering place where people can connect, discover new ideas, and build lasting friendships.”

For more information visit anyoneforbooks.com or head to Anyone For Books located at 21 Victoria Street South in Goderich (Entrance on St. David Street).

Goderich Sun

4Ts golf tournament raises $30,000 for AMGH’s Magnetic Moments MRI Campaign

GODERICH SUN STAFF

info@goderichsun.com

In its inaugural year, the Tata’s and Testicles Golf Tournament (Four Ts) brought a golf tournament to the region that raised awareness and funds for both breast and testicular cancers.

Funds raised during the tournament were donated to the new MRI Suite at the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital

(AMGH) in Goderich.

With 128 golfers, the co-ed golf tournament at Goderich Sunset Golf Course raised $26,000. Truly Nolen surprised the 12 committee members and its volunteers, with a Community Impact Sponsor donation of $4,000, bringing the total raised to $30,000.

All proceeds from the tournament have been donated to the MRI campaign.

The day will also included games, a

50/50, a raffle and a silent auction, accompanied by live entertainment by local band Happy Jack, while participants sipped on a drink from tasting sponsors Cowbell and Triple Bogey.

Dana Morgenroth, Co-chair of the tournament says the committee plans on hosting another tournament next year on June 5 at Goderich Sunset Golf Course.

“We felt our tournament was so successful, our committee wants to continue to

support the Magnetic Moments campaign and the AMGH Foundation,” said Morgenroth.

“We truly appreciate all involved this year. We couldn’t have done this without the golfers, the volunteers, all local businesses and donors and sponsors.”

To participate, volunteer or donate please contact 3TSTournament@gmail. com or follow the tournament on social media.

Blyth Festival review: Sisters of ’78 is an authentically Canadian story about standing up for what’s right

GALEN

Regional Editor

I had never heard of the Fleck strike of 1978 in Centralia before walking into the Blyth Memorial Community Hall on opening night of playwright Kristen De Silva and director Mary Francis Moore’s Sisters of ’78 on June 12.

But by the time I walked out, I was hoarse from cheering for the basic labour standards the women of the Fleck Manufacturing Plant fought so hard and risked so much for – standards they ultimately won – and from singing along to the phenomenal classic-rock soundtrack from the late ‘70s this particularly moving story was set to.

This play was fantastic from start to finish. The set was a thing of theatrical magic, capturing the factory floor with its large and dangerous machinery, dirty industrial windows and a locker room away from the prying eyes of management. The factory also transitioned perfectly into a smalltown bar where the women who worked at Fleck – which produced automotive wiring assemblies in the ‘70s – would meet to voice their frustrations with working conditions, plan union meetings and strategies, and blow off steam.

A separate piece of the set, a kitchen plucked straight from the late ‘70s with its bright-yellow wallpaper and garish green furniture, was built so it could spin in and out of view of the audience, making the scenes featuring Maeve (Madison HayesCrook), Andrew (Aiden Altow), Margaret (Cara Hunter) and Christine (Gloria Garratt) feel seamlessly woven into the narra-

tive fabric of this production.

The use of recorded radio-style programming not only offered a natural way to explain much of the historical context needed to place the story at a very specific time in Canadian history when women were still treated as second-class citizens, it also opened the door to the use of some of my favourite classic-rock songs of the decade during scene and set changes.

I definitely didn’t notice the stagehands at work while I sang along to Kansas’ “Dust in the Wind,” among other tunes of the time.

The acting in this production is top-

notch. The women, of course, are the stars of the show, and each of them brings something different to the story, from Hayes-Crook’s ability to portray Maeve’s growing dissatisfaction with her marriage to Andrew and her increasing motivation to fighting for what’s right, to Shelayna Christante’s portrayal of the naively hilarious Angie, the youngest worker of the group who stands toe to toe with her sisters and bravely puts her life on the picket line for their collective rights.

Even Shaina Silver-Baird as Laurie – the one union hold-out who suffers the wrath of her co-workers for not joining their

Goderich Duplicate Bridge Club Results

Robert McFarlane directed the club on June 23: NORTH/SOUTH:

1st – Doug Elliott and Virginia Elliott – 65.18%

2nd – Penny Peters and Joan Lounsbury – 63.99%

3rd – Mary Lynne Telford and Bill Hansen – 53.87%

4th – Susan White and Theresa Cundy – 53.28% EAST/WEST:

1st – Joyce McIlwain and Alje Kamminga – 61.38%

2nd – Bob Dick and Keith Allen – 53.70%

3rd/4th – Cal Scotchmer and Evy McDonagy with John Archbold and Pamela Raab – 50.53%

Robert McFarlane directed the club on June 30: NORTH/SOUTH:

1st – Doug Elliott and Virginia Elliott – 65.90%

2nd – Margaret Blackie and Murray Blackie – 53.02%

3rd – Mary Lapine and Joan Lounsbury – 50.64%

4th – Michele Hansen and Greg Bowman – 49.57%

5th – Penny Peters and Connie Adams – 49.49% EAST/WEST:

1st – Tom Rajnovich and Shirley Thomas – 67.80%

2nd – David Elston and Trudy von Wistinghausen –60.84%

3rd – Pat Lewington and Brenda Blair – 52.98%

4th – Cal Scotchmer and Evy McDonagh – 52.72%

Goderich Sun

Tim Hortons (Highway 8)

Tim Hortons (Five Points) Canadian

Southbridge Goderich

cause – offers an important counter-point to the notion of unionizing at that point in Canadian history and the risks is poses not just to the women who joined the union, but to their families as well.

By far, the most stirring performance in the production, in my opinion, is that of Alyssa LeClair as Joyce, the fearless and unwavering union leader who delivers stirring speeches that motivate her fellow plant workers to continue pushing for better, regardless of how many cold, blustery days they spend on the picket line, or how many of them are arrested and threatened by local police.

And while the true antagonists in this story are the plant owners, politicians and local police leadership who allow the illegal threats of violence and union-busting to take place, we as an audience need real, onstage characters to root against.

Those characters come in the form of Lumpy (Geoffrey Pounsett), the slimy, underhanded and sexually aggressive factory manager, and Andrew, Maeve’s demanding, disrespectful and cheating husband.

Both Pounsett and Altow do an admirable job portraying men in positions of power who can’t seem to even consider allowing the women around them to gain the basic rights and freedoms they already enjoy. I can’t recommend enough that you see this play. It’s an important story from our country’s history that not only reminds us how far we’ve come with women’s and workers’ rights, but also how far we still must go to find equity.

Sisters of ’78 runs on the Blyth Festival’s Margaret Stephens Stage until Aug. 9.

5th – Lyalle Meldrum and Steven Watson – 47.70%

The Goderich Duplicate Bridge Club meets every Tuesday at 12:45 p.m. at the Christian Reform Church, Mill Road, Goderich.

If interested in playing, the club welcomes new members. If you have a partner, you can simply arrive to play if you need a partner, the club will do its best to find someone from the spare list.

For more information, please call Club President: Michele Hansen 519-441-3275.

The Goderich Duplicate Bridge Club's Website is https://bridgewebs.com/goderichbridge/home.html

Pick Up Locations

Maitland

Huron

Huron

Goderich

Blyth Festival review: Dry Streak brings all that smalltown Saskatchewan charm with some fun twists

GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor

If you’ve ever been curious about what it’s like living in small-town Saskatchewan, playwright Leeann Minogue and director Kate Lynch’s production of Dry Streak this season at the Blyth Festival might be the play for you.

Having lived and worked in isolated towns and villages in the middle Prairie province for a year and a half at the beginning of my career, I can tell you this play and this season’s production get it right. The traditional parents, the emphasis on farming, family and community, the only bar in town where everyone drinks a little more than they should, and the newspaper owner who also serves as mayor and an insurance salesman – it’s all there.

Dry Streak tells the story of a family farm struggling to grow anything during one of the hottest, dryest summers on record in 1988. Eldest son, John Richards (Adrian Shepherd-Gawinski), returns home from working in Calgary to work on the farm, and brings with him his new girlfriend, Kate Allen (Brontae Hunter), a worldly, highly educated, punk-rocker vegetarian who is eager to learn the trade of farming and help out where she can before leaving with John on another globetrotting adventure.

While John’s mom, Olive Richards (Robin Craig), and his siblings, Denise Smith (Hallie Seline) and Charlie Richards (Cameron Laurie), are warm and welcoming to Kate despite a few misgivings

from Olive about the pair “living in sin,” his dad, Peter Richards (Benedict Campbell), finds he has nothing in common with her and butts heads with John over what he sees as Kate taking John away from the family farm for good.

A drunken, offhand comment by Kate about running naked down Main Street when and if the community ever gets some much-needed rain is blown out of proportion by the town’s mayor and newspaperman, Rob Armstrong (David Kirby),

and ultimately turns into a fundraiser to rebuild the town’s beloved and ageing arena. Without giving too much away, Kate ultimately earns the respect of Peter and the whole town and decides to stay and help John and Peter run the farm.

This play is full of surprises, the most exciting of which involves Olive’s character arc and her growth. While she starts as a rather traditional housewife, serving her husband and worrying what the members of the United Church Women group might

think about her son’s new girlfriend, her relationship with Kate allows her to see a world outside her community and try new things she never would have considered previously.

For me, the onstage chemistry between Hunter and Craig as Kate and Olive forms the emotional core of this production, as their characters are ultimately responsible for repairing the relationship between father and son and saving the town arena – along with some help from Denise and Charlie for the latter. Both Kate and Olive learn from one another and grow as a result – two very rewarding and well-portrayed character arcs.

I also enjoyed Campbell’s performance as Peter, a generational farmer who relies on his family’s support, and is often disappointed, as he tries to save the family farm amid potentially the most stressful growing season he has ever endured. The character of Kate offers a perfect counterpoint to Peter’s traditional way of life, allowing Campbell to deliver much of this production’s humour.

I should also compliment the design team on the set for this production. Between the “antique” kitchen and the small-town Main Street backdrop, I truly felt transported back to my days as a cub reporter in Saskatchewan – so, well done! This play is well worth a trip to Blyth this summer.

Dry Streak runs on the Margaret Stephens Stage at the Blyth Community Memorial Hall until Aug. 16.

Invasive Plants: Species that can damage property and infrastructure

SANDELOWSKY and HELEN VAREKAMP

Sun Contributors

By now many of our readers are well aware of the damage invasive plants can cause and the costs associated with eradication. As a country, Canada has pledged to reduce the spread and introduction of invasive species by half by 2030. Since gardening is the primary pathway for their introduction, we, as individuals, can take responsibility and provide our support by choosing not to buy invasive plants, to remove them from our gardens and to learn more about their impacts.

Today we focus on risks invasive plants pose to infrastructure, such as fire, erosion, drainage systems and property values. Invasive plants damage property and infrastructure while increasing the risk of fire and erosion and even reducing property values:

Knotweed roots are so strong that they can damage pavement, building foundations and drainage systems by growing through existing cracks and expansion joints, forcing them wider over time and potentially compromising structural integrity. Their dieback in winter also leaves

streambanks and slopes bare, increasing erosion.

Japanese Honeysuckle can smother groundcover vegetation, reducing root mass that holds soil in place and making slopes more prone to erosion.

Some invasive plants sold as ornamentals pose a fire hazard. For example, Chi-

nese Silvergrass forms dense, dry stands late in the season that can ignite easily.

The same is true for Phragmites.

Callery Pear forms dense thorny thickets, has brittle branches prone to breakage, and produces foul-smelling flowers.

While in Canada invasive plants are not yet widely recognized by the public

as a property deterrent, some buyers may be discouraged by the cost and effort required to remove species such as Knotweed or Buckthorn once they understand the scale of the problem. In the U.K. you are legally required to disclose the presence of Knotweed on your property when selling.

Invasive plants can also damage green infrastructure —which is the vegetation and soils that naturally manage stormwater, filter pollutants, and maintain air quality—by displacing deep-rooted native plants, reducing soil stability, and altering water flow and nutrient cycles.

Other invasives, such as Yellow Flag Iris spread so rapidly and have such a dense root system that it may obstruct waterflow in drainage systems.

The above is only a fraction of the documented impacts. Whether or not this feels personally relevant, the evidence is clear that invasive plants from the horticultural trade impose significant costs on nature and on our economy. As a gardener, please choose your plants wisely and consider becoming a supporter of the Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation—it’s free! – www.ccipr.ca.

Trail Talk: Nighttime walks reveal the glow of the fireflies

I had a few more surprises on the trail.

On Thursday, June 25 I was joined by Anne and Rick on a hike from Londesboro Road towards River Line on the Maitland Trail. Shortly after we started back the forecasted light rain started and soon a fawn followed Rick for a short way along the trail. I have never before heard of this happening, though many years ago a deer followed me back to the house.

On Canada Day after the Goderich parade, I stopped at Jenkins to move a couple of kilometre posts to be more in line with the latest GPS measurements of the Maitland Trail.

On the way down the laneway from Jenkins, I saw a Spicebush Swallowtail mud puddling. Later as I started to hammer in the 9 km post, a Polyphemus moth landed on the ground in front of me. Polyphemus moths have a wingspan from 10 to 15 cm; they are slightly smaller than Cecropia moths (13-18cm) and the uncommon Imperial moth (8-17cm).

The females emit pheromones to attract male who can fly for miles to reach a female. The adult moths are mostly nocturnal and will become active at dusk and throughout the night in search of mates.

After moths mate, the female spends most of the remainder of her life laying eggs, while the male may mate several more times. Adults of this family of moths have reduced mouth parts so they do not eat and only live as adults for less than one week.

People have differing memories about Canada Day.

One of mine is from several years ago when I took my dog Chewy out for a walk at nighttime to get away from the noise of fireworks and I saw a great display of fireflies.

This year I have seen fireflies around this time, recently one firefly was close to the window and particularly bright.

Canada Day is also the time I see Michigan Lilies in bloom. There is a great display of them at the Clinton Conservation Area just after crossing over the Bayfield River.

Some species of butterfly have quite a variation in the time when I first see them in a year, and other species seem to have a constant time.

One of these is the Northern Pearly-Eye, which was first seen June 21 in 2024, June

28 in 2025 and on June 29 this year. Similarly, this time of year there are Great Spangled Fritillary, and European Skippers flying around, but the Hobomok Skippers, Little Wood Satyrs and Common Ringlets are becoming uncommon. I notice that thanks to the Maitland Trail volunteer maintenance crew, the long grass on much of the Maitland Trail is being kept in check.

NOTES:

Saturday, July 11 at 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - BRVTA outing Admiral Bayfield walk in Bayfield lead by David Yates. Meet at Clan Gregor Square.

Sunday, July 12 Hike at 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. - Meet at 80842 Sharpes Creek Line to carpool to River Line. This section has many parts with views of the Maitland River and has several significant hills. Expect to take about 2.5 hours.

For more information and to confirm your attendance, please contact Patrick Capper at pcapper99@gmail.com. This is a level 3 hike at a moderately fast pace.

Saturday, July 25 at 11 a.m. - The monthly Mindfulness Walk and Forest Therapy. Meet at the Millenium Trail in Goderich, Nelson Street entrance. Designed for those who want the benefits of meditation but prefer to move.

We’ll be moving slowly and silently together for 20 minutes to the first river lookout where we’ll stop to chat about the benefits of mindfulness and forest thera-

py, enjoy the beautiful vistas of the Maitland River, and head back to the entrance - maybe hug a tree on the way out. Please leave your pets at home; dogs are already very zen.

For more information and to confirm your attendance, please contact Tanya at redroofrecovery@gmail.com or text 519616-3636. This is a level 1, slow paced meditative walk.

Sunday, July 26 at 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.Canoe/Kayak/Paddleboard. Arrive at East Street Cider with your equipment ready

for a short shuttle, very likely to the mouth of the Maitland River. Paddling location will be determined closer to the date as conditions become predictable.

The trip is suitable for people who have experience in moving water (Class 1) or waves in Lake Huron and can provide their own boat and safety gear. Swimming is likely. This is a co-promotion event with East Street Cider.

You can register with either organization. Maitland Trail registrants must sign the annual MTA online waiver. For more information and to confirm your attendance, please contact Con Melady at 519530-8998.

NOTE that the Maitland Trail between Londesboro Road and Little Lakes Road remains closed due to a landslide.

September 22- 23 Maitland Camino is getting close to being fully booked.

EVENTS:

Tuesday Trompers meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesday to hike for about an hour. If you wish to be on this email list, send an email to mta@maitlandtrail.ca

Midweek hikers meet at 9 a.m. and hike for 1.5 to 2 hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact Patrick Capper at pcapper99@gmail.com

LIFE hikers meet every Friday for a hike of about 1.5 hours, with a choice of pace, striders moving a little faster than the strollers. The hikes now start at 9a.m. and can be joined through ONE CARE.

Physiotherapy: Disembarkment Syndrome

In your life, have you ever stepped off a boat, off a flight or out of the car after a long ride and felt like you were still moving?

Typically, for most, this sensation of bobbing, floating, or swaying dissipates quickly, but for some it can linger.

If you do not readapt to the stationary ground

quickly, you may have what is called disembarkment syndrome.

This is a rare neurological disorder in which you experience constant perception of motion, like being on a boat.

This swaying or bobbing feeling typically eases when you are in motion, like on a swing or in the car.

Though it can occur spontaneously, post surgery or childbirth, typically it occurs after a long period of travel.

Other symptoms may include feeling unsteady, anxiety, fatigue and many more.

In most cases of disembarkment syndrome, the symptoms will improve on their own within 24 hours.

If they persist, you should follow up with your doctor who should run a series of tests first, as disembark-

ment syndrome is typically a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning everything else has been ruled out.

If symptoms continue to last for more than a month you will likely be referred to a vestibular physiotherapist.

A vestibular physiotherapist will prescribe various exercises to work on retraining your brain tailored to your specific symptoms. Exercises will also include balance training and exercises for your eyes. Typically, symptoms will improve within a few weeks but for some it can last months to years.

Remember if you experience a new onset of dizziness, especially if it is lasting longer than 24 hours, you should reach out to your healthcare provider.

Melayna Sager is a PT at Physiotherapy Alliance Goderich

Ask the Vet: Don’t get ‘ticked off’ this summer

Ticks seem to be everywhere, so how can I protect my pets and my family?

The number of ticks and their range have expanded dramatically in the past 10-15 years, increasing the risk of serious diseases in pets and in people.

Fortunately, we can take steps to reduce these risks while still enjoying the great outdoors.

What are ticks and how do we get exposed?

Ticks are ground-dwelling arachnids that feed on blood. They’re often found in long grass, wooded areas and leaf litter, but can quite happily live in people’s yards and gardens.

They wait on the tips of blades of grass or shrubs for a passing host to come by (this is called questing). Attracted by body heat, movement and carbon dioxide, they’ll climb onto the host and start looking for a spot to bite and feed.

Why are ticks dangerous?

Ticks aren’t just a gross annoyance. With even one bite, they can spread serious diseases to us and to our pets such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and others.

As the tick feeds, the bacteria it’s carrying passes into the bloodstream of the host. Because the risk of infection increases the longer the tick feeds, prompt detection and removal of ticks is vital.

Clinical signs of tick-borne diseases can take days to months to appear - a detailed discussion on these is beyond the scope of this article, so contact your vet, your family doctor or the public health unit for more information.

While tick-borne diseases in cats currently seem to be rare in Ontario, tick prevention is still essential for them (see below).

Ticks are only active in the summer, though…right?

Unfortunately, no. Different tick species have different peaks of activity throughout the year, but some, including the black-legged tick (a.k.a. deer tick) that carries Lyme disease are active whenever the temperature is above 0°C, even in the winter. Year-round tick prevention is key.

How do I protect my pets?

Tick prevention is a multi-layered approach:

Daily tick checks: Do a headto-tail scan by running your hands thoroughly over the whole body, parting the hair to see the skin. Then double-check areas where ticks like to hide - eyes, eyelids, inside the ears, neck, under the collar, legs, armpits, groin, feet (top and bottom), between the toes, tail. Ticks are very small and can be easy to miss, even in a short coat. Immature ticks can be smaller than a poppy seed and some adults are smaller than an apple seed before they feed. If you see a tick, remove it (see below).

Because ticks are easy to miss, it’s critical to use a tick prevention product for all dogs, all cats that spend any time outdoors and indoor cats with a canine housemate. Many different tick prevention products are available, so talk to your vet about the best option for your pets. Stay away from “natural”, “holistic” etc. products and homemade tick repellants - they don’t work. Despite the internet testimonials, there is no actual evidence to show effectiveness. You don’t want to risk your pet getting sick or bringing a tick into the house.

Use caution if you use an overthe-counter flea/tick preventive: some OTC products are highly toxic to cats so read the label carefully. Talk to your vet before applying anything to your cat, or if you have cats and dogs, as your vet might recommend separating them for a while after using an OTC product on the dog. No OTC para site product protects against heartworm (another serious par asite), so talk to your vet about heartworm prevention to make sure your pet is fully protected.

While these steps will give you the best protection possible, nothing is 100 per cent effective at stopping disease transmission, so make sure to have your vet screen your dog for exposure to tick-borne diseases yearly.

If tick-borne dis eases are rare in cats here, why do they need tick preven tion?

Quite simply, to protect the rest of the family. Cats can groom unattached

ticks off their fur, causing them to fall off in the house.

Unattached ticks can also drop off on their own or be transferred to people or pets that weren’t in the environment where the tick was picked up.

How do I protect myself?

If you will be in tick-contact risk areas:

• Prevent access to your skin by wearing long sleeves and pants and closed-toe shoes. Tuck your shirt into your pants, and your pants into your socks

• Wear light coloured clothing (to spot ticks easily)

Wear permethrin-treated clothing

• Use insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin on clothing and exposed skin

• Stay on cleared paths and trails and keep children and pets on paths

• Don’t use trails created by animals, as ticks are often found along them

Before you come inside:

• Check yourself and your clothing (visit canada.ca/lymedisease for a how-to on doing tick checks in people)

• Check all outdoor gear (backpacks, etc.)

• Check your pets

Reduce tick habitat around your home:

• Ticks like cool and humid environments. Keep the grass trimmed to a practical height,

to encourage air flow and reduce their attractiveness for both ticks and wildlife.

• Create a distinct boundary between wooded/brushy areas and the part of the yard where the family spends time.

• Deer and small mammals can bring ticks to your property. Make your yard less inviting to these critters by managing food sources and hiding places.

How do I remove a tick on me or my pet?

Check out the Public Health Agency of Canada’s YouTube channel for a video showing you how to do this:

1. Wear gloves to prevent disease transmission through breaks in your skin. Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth until you have washed your hands.

2. Use a tool such as finetipped tweezers, a tick twister, tick key, or a finetooth comb to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.

3. Don’t touch the tick’s body as pressure on the tick’s body can cause bacteria to be released

4. Pull the tick straight out with steady, even pressure. Maintain steady pressure if the tick does not release immediately; it may take a minute or two to get the tick to let go. Twisting or jerk-

of infection.

5. Don’t use home remedies such as coating the tick in petroleum jelly or grease or touching the tick with a hot match. They don’t work well, and can cause the tick to salivate, increasing the chance of disease transmission.

6. After removing the tick, thoroughly disinfect the bite area and your hands with soap and water.

7. If possible, take a picture of the tick and submit it to etick.ca to identify it and submit a tick sighting report for tick monitoring data collection

Note: Watch out for nipples or skin tags. Every vet has seen patients whose owner mistook a nipple for a tick and tried to remove it - if you’re not sure that it’s a tick, check with your vet.

By staying informed and taking some simple precautions, you can protect your family and furry friends. Summer in Huron County is too short as it is- don’t let ticks stop you from enjoying it! So, keep up with those daily checks, stay protected, and have a safe, wonderful summer.

Do you have a question about pet care? Send it to reception@ clintonvet.ca and it may be featured in a future column.

Dr. Sophie Farrell is a veterinarian at Clinton Vet Services

Doug Brown

Chris Christoforou

Steve Condren

Wally Hennessey

Carl Jamieson

Paul MacDonell

Mike Saftic

John Campbell

Bill O'Donnell

Ron Waples

Dave Wall

Grey Matters: The hidden health secret seniors are rediscovering – friendship

ANNETTE GERDES, Sun Contributor

We often hear about the importance of eating well, exercising, drinking enough water, and getting proper sleep. Researchers are increasingly discovering another powerful factor that affects healthy aging and that is friendship.

In fact, studies now suggest that loneliness and social isolation may impact health as much

as smoking, obesity, or inactivity. While that may sound dramatic, it highlights something many seniors already know deep down: life simply feels better when it is shared.

What is interesting is that friendship changes as we age. In younger years, friendships often revolve around work, raising children, busy schedules, or social obligations. But in retirement, friendships become more intentional. We begin choosing people who bring comfort, laughter, encouragement, and peace.

Science is backing this up.

Researchers have found that strong social connections can help:

• Reduce stress and anxiety

• Improve memory and brain function

• Lower blood pressure

• Encourage physical activity

• Reduce risk of depression

• Improve recovery after illness

• Increase overall happiness

and longevity

It turns out that a good conversation over coffee may be healthier than we once realized.

One of the biggest challenges for seniors, however, is that friendship can become harder later in life. Retirement changes routines. Adult children become busy. Friends move away. Some seniors lose spouses or lifelong companions. Without realizing it, isolation can quietly begin to creep in.

The good news? Meaningful connection does not always require large groups or busy social calendars. Often, it starts with small moments.

A quick chat in the hallway. Sitting with someone at lunch instead of eating alone. Joining a card game. Attending an exercise class. Calling an old friend just to say hello. Even brief interactions can improve mood and create a sense of belonging.

Interestingly, one of the newest

trends among seniors is the rise of “micro-communities.” These are small groups formed around shared interests rather than age alone. Walking clubs, puzzle groups, gardening circles, book clubs, coffee meetups, pickleball, crafting afternoons, and volunteer teams are helping seniors reconnect in fun and meaningful ways. Also, retirement homes are a great alternative to social activities and meeting people.

And perhaps the most surprising part? Friendship keeps the brain active.

Conversation requires memory, attention, listening, emotional response, and quick thinking all things that stimulate the mind. Laughing with others also releases feel good chemicals that reduce stress and help improve emotional well being.

Technology is helping too. Many seniors now stay connected through video chats, group texts, online games, and social

Better Mental Health: Just put it on my tab

Most of us know what it feels like to carry an ever-growing list of burdens: financial pressures, relationship struggles, an unexpected diagnosis, workplace stress, aging parents, children or grandchildren who need us, and just the relentless pace of modern life.

Our nervous system may be reacting automatically - shaped by years of experience, stress, and old emotional wounds.

We can’t always choose what lands on our doorstep, but we can choose how we answer the

door.

Few people understood this better than the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Two-thousand years ago, Marcus ruled one of the most powerful empires in history - a time that was marked by plagues, famines, floods, wars, political upheaval, and unimaginable loss.

Marcus possessed wealth, influence, and authority beyond what most of us can only imagine. Yet history remembers him not for indulgence, but for his remarkable wisdom.

His private journals, now known as Meditations, reveal something unexpected. Rather than celebrating his power, Marcus continually reminded himself to become more patient, more disciplined, and more resilient.

He understood that the greatest battle was rarely against invading armies. It was the battle within - a battle against fear, anger, ego, and the tendency to react impulsively when life became difficult.

That perspective was shaped

by Stoicism - a philosophy that teaches us to distinguish between what we can control and what we can’t control. Instead of wasting precious energy resisting reality, Stoic wisdom encourages us to meet life with courage, acceptance, and purpose.

Every generation has faced its own version of uncertainty. While the circumstances change, human experience does not. We all encounter seasons when life seems determined to test us.

My Philosopher Dad used to say, "Life is a tough teacher because we always get the test before the lesson."

Imagine receiving bad news for the fiftieth time and just simply responding, "All right...just put it on my tab."

Not because the problem doesn’t matter.

Not because suffering should be minimized.

But because resisting reality often just creates more suffering. Acceptance is not surrender. It’s the moment we stop arguing with what already exists, and begin asking, "What is the

next best thing I can do?" This “next-step-strategy” can help shift you from helplessness toward possibilities.

When we stop demanding that life be fair, we can stop wasting energy, wishing things were different and start investing that energy in changing our attitudes.

Every challenge asks something of us. Sometimes it asks for patience. Sometimes courage. Sometimes humility. Whatever the lesson, life seems less interested in punishing us than in inviting us to grow into a wiser version of ourselves.

So, when the next difficulty arrives, you might simply smile and say, "Put it on my tab." Not because you enjoy hardship, but because you trust your capacity to grow through it.

That kind of resilience doesn't appear overnight. Like any worthwhile skill, it develops through awareness, patience, and practice.

That's the heart of my MIND MOJO programs - combining mindfulness with practical cognitive behavioural strategies

media. Grandparents are sending memes, joining Facebook groups, and texting grandchildren more than ever before. While technology can never replace in person connection, it can certainly help bridge distance.

One of the healthiest things we can do this summer may not involve a gym membership or a strict diet. It may simply involve reaching out.

Invite someone for coffee. Sit outside together. Share stories. Attend an event. Reconnect with an old friend. Sometimes the smallest invitation can make the biggest difference not only for others, but for us.

As we age, we often discover something important: happiness is less about having more, and more about feeling connected.

Maybe that is the real secret to healthy aging after all.

Annette Gerdes is the General Manager at the Goderich Place Retirement Residence

to help people regulate stress, strengthen emotional resilience, and build better mental health.

Serenity isn't found in a life without waves. It's found when we learn - one wave at a timehow to surf the ups-and-downs of all the waves of life. Eventually, we become stronger surfers - with practice, patience, and persistence.

When you're ready to become a stronger surfer, I'd love to hear from you.

Email me at mentalhealthfitnessalliance@gmail.com.

Tanya MacIntyre is a Certified CBT Specialist, Mental Health Fitness Trainer, and owner/operator of Red Roof Recovery (RRR) and its training division ~ Mental Health Fitness Alliance (MHFA).

DISCLAIMER: This content is not intended to constitute, or be a substitute for, medical diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard advice from your doctor, or delay in seeking it, because of something you have watched, read, or heard from anyone at RRR or MHFA.

OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: Learning on the job at a chef’s table in Grenada

Chef Janice hands me an apron, a large, very sharp knife and a cutting board. “Chop this onion,” she says.

Fast forward a few minutes. Chef Janice examines my work, and I fail. “No, chop it much finer than that.” Lesson learned.

I was standing behind the chef’s table at the Mount Cinnamon Beach and Wellness Resort in St. George’s, Grenada. I was invited to Grenada as a member of an eight-person group of Canadian travel journalists.

To tell the truth, I probably should not have been included on the trip because places like Grenada like to introduce new travel media to their destination, and when it comes to this wonderful island in the east Caribbean, I am not new.

This was my third visit to Grenada and I hope it won’t be my last.

In my job, one should be focused on new, international destinations, I suppose, but there is a short list of amazing places that I would love to return to again and again. Ireland, for example. The southern tip of Italy. South-west England. And Grenada is definitely on that list.

So, when they invite me, I go. But while there, I figure that I should do

my best to find new and different experiences to write about.

Being a sous-chef to Chef Janice fits that category perfectly. Food is an increasingly important element of travel anywhere in the world. More and more people are building travel itineraries around opportunities to enjoy local cuisine. Others may not make food number one but still want to experience local food and drink.

It’s the opposite of what may still happen in large, all-inclusive resorts where they offer food they think their guests – especially Americans – are comfortable with.

I don’t want “comfort,” I want “authentic.”

When our group arrived for our visit to Mount Cinnamon, the chef’s table was set for the eight of us. Our host asked, “Would anyone like to assist the chef?” Two of us immediately raised our hands and

were designated sous – or maybe something lower than sous – chefs for the duration.

We stood behind the chef’s table, which was spread with an amazing array of ingredients. Some were obvious – large, freshly caught filets of fish (which turned out to be Mahi Mahi), the aforementioned onions, garlic, tomatoes, lettuce. But then there were the many ramekins filled with colourful and aromatic spices.

That made sense. Grenada brands itself as “the spice of the Caribbean.” Later in our visit, we toured the Belmont Estate, known for fantastic chocolate, but where our guide, Kelly, began at a table laden with about three dozen kinds of fruits, nuts and spices, all grown commercially on the estate.

Just as the national symbol for Canada is the maple leaf, Grenada’s symbol is nutmeg, the signa-

ture spice of the island.

So, while my colleague and I were assigned the more easily identified elements – onions, garlic, tomatoes – Chef Janice added a delicious and mysterious mix of spices to the food we were preparing. After I was released – we won’t say fired – from my culinary duties, and had enjoyed the amazing meal we had prepared, I checked out the menu in the adjacent restaurant. The list of ingredients in the various dishes was mouthwatering: toasted coconut, rosemary, chives, chili oil, ginger, passionfruit, citrus, capers, thyme, cilantro, lemon, turmeric aioli, lime, tamarind chutney, mango, mint, parsley, basil, cinnamon and more, virtually all fresh from the island. And these are just the seasonings that accent the main ingredients!

The meal I – well, mostly not I – eventually served started with a

very tasty Callaloo Soup. Callaloo is a leafy plant; the green soup included coconut milk, garlic, onion, chili peppers and pinches of sundry amazing spices from the magic ramekins.

The main course was grilled Mahi Mahi garnished with tomato, onion and pineapple salsa, sauteed local vegetables (including chunks of yellow pumpkin) and twicebaked potatoes. I was involved in all of this but, shall we say, my learning curve was a factor. I was cautioned not to over-stir the vegetables, and when it came time to plate the meal, I forgot to start with the lettuce leaf that was supposed to be under the veggies. So, I got that one. A victim of my own incompetence.

Though as I enjoyed every single bite of an amazing meal featuring fresh, local, Grenadian ingredients and unique tastes, I did not feel at all victimized. Mostly, I felt lucky.

Local spices, fruits, vegetables and seafood are in evidence everywhere in Grenada, from the restaurants and pubs to the stalls in St. George’s Market to the hillsides where what might appear to be forests are actually orchards where foods like nutmeg or papaya grow on trees that shelter the soil beneath them, where other foods and spices grow.

There are lots of reasons to visit Grenada – more about this in coming months – but for any visitor, the amazing local cuisine should be high on your list.

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.

COMING EVENTS

GODERICH CHESS CLUB

On Tuesday evenings from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Goderich Library in the activity room.

This club warmly welcomes all chess enthusiasts of any age to join. Whether a seasoned player or a newcomer eager to learn the game, this is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of chess.

Participants may come and go as they please during this timeframe.

Admission is free.

Equipment will be provided.

SMART RECOVERY MEETINGS

Hosted every Sunday from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. at Red Roof Recovery.

ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE

Join in on Mondays from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the God-

erich Library. Make friends and practice speaking English while talking about culture, family, food, movies or anything you would like. Hosted by the Huron Welcome Hub for Newcomers.

GODERICH READS BOOK CLUB

Join this book club that meets every two weeks at the Goderich Legion and come work with a variety of books. There are nearly 170 members online and a core group of locals who come out to in-person meetings at Café 109. Upcoming meetings:

July 13, July 27 and August 10 – The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters (new selection)

Break until September 14 with new selection TBA. Contact head of book club Holly Smith: 519-630-3962 for more information.

BIA FARMERS’ MARKET

Every Saturday until October 10, from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.

BIA SUNDAY MARKET

Every Sunday until October 11, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

BIA THURSDAY EVENING CONCERT SERIES

On Thursdays from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the Courthouse Performance Stage.

Aug. 2 – Huron County Honour Band

Aug. 9 – No band concert – Celtic Festival

Aug. 16 – Lighthouse Swing Band

Aug. 23 – Ayr-Paris Community Band

Aug. 30 – Jellybean Blue

TIM HAWMAN BRINGS NORTH SHORE SOLITUDE TO GODERICH CO-OP GALLERY

Landscape painted, Tim Hawman, will be July’s guest artist at the gallery. The artist’s exhibition will open at the beginning of July. All are invited to come and welcome the artist and enjoy his new series of artwork.

WAKE UP WEDNESDAY AND CAFÉ 109

On Wednesdays at Goderich Legion at 9 a.m.

July 15 – Home care regulations.

July 22 – Medical assistance in dying.

July 29 – Protection against scams.

BEHIND THE BARS

Starting on Thursday, July 2 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. at Huron Historic Gaol.

Tuesday and Thursday evenings in July and August. Last entry at 8 p.m.

This is an immersive tour experience that gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about life at the gaol.

Join in this weekly celebration of music, community and the simple joy of coming together.

Every Thursday night at 7 p.m. the majestic Courthouse Performance Stage comes alive. Admission is free.

CIRCLE CITY CRUIZERS

On Wednesday, July 8 at 6 p.m. at Goderich Main Beach. Join in on the Summer Beach Car Cruise.

SUNDAY CONCERTS AT HARBOUR PARK

Beginning on Sunday, June 28 at 7 p.m., hosted by the Goderich Laketown Band, share the joy of music for various Sundays this summer.

Concert schedule:

July 12 – Stratford Concert Band

July 19 – Kincardine Community Concert Band

July 26 – Goderich Laketown Band

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Saturday, July 11, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Carlow Masonic Hall

Serving Sausage, Eggs and Pancakes with Juice and Coffee

Adults $12.50, Children 7-12

$7, 6 and under no charge

Proceeds for Community Events

Interact with actors portraying past inmates and staff who lived and worked at the gaol between 1841 and 1921. Pre-purchase tickets online to avoid disappointment. Tickets are available at the door as space permits.

PIPING DOWN THE SUN

Starting on Friday, July 3 at 8 p.m. at Rotary Beach, the Goderich Celtic Blue Highlanders will once again pipe down the sun on Friday nights in Goderich.

The event runs on Friday evenings from July 3 until August 24. The event is fun for all ages and is a free event.

GODERICH SUMMERFEST AND RIBFEST

From Thursday, July 9 at 6:30 p.m. until Sunday, July 12, come celebrate the summer of 2026.

New this year – a three day ribfest.

Taking place again at the Courthouse Square park, come take part in the summer festivities all weekend long. Thursday, July 9 – Pub Night. Beer gardens open at 6:30 p.m.

Friday, July 10 – Rib fest and beer gardens open at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 11 – Rib fest and beer gardens open at 11 a.m. Open until 1 a.m.

Sunday, July 12 – Rib fest and beer gardens open at 11 a.m. Rib fest and beer gardens open until 7 p.m.

Cash bar and great food all weekend.

Contact: goderichkinsmen@hurontel.on.ca

Why did the sun go to school? To get a little brighter!

What do you call a snowman in the summer? A puddle!

Why do fish swim in salt water? Because pepper water makes them sneeze!

What do you get when you cross a beach with a garden? Sand-whiches!

Why did the ice cream truck break down? It had a rocky road!

What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing—it just waved!

Why are frogs so happy in summer? Because they eat whatever bugs them!

What kind of music do planets listen to during summer? Neptunes!

Why did the watermelon have a big wedding? Because it cantaloupe!

What do you call a lazy day at the beach? Shore relaxation!

Why did the sunscreen get promoted? It always had people covered!

CLASSIFIEDS

REIS, EVELYN

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Evelyn Mae (McCabe) Reis, on Monday, June 29, 2026. She passed peacefully, surrounded by the love and presence of her children.

Evelyn is now reunited with her cherished husband, Jack who she has missed dearly over the past 10 years. Together, they shared 63 beautiful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, family, and lasting friendships.

Evelyn was a devoted and loving mother to Susan Reis of Goderich; Mary Anne and Peter Nichol of Listowel; Jacqueline and Ron Martin of Listowel; and John and Michelle Reis of Ottawa. She now shares a long-awaited reunion with two of her infant triplet children, James Donald and Margaret Catherine.

Evelyn was a proud and beloved “GMA,” fondly remembered for her famous “grandma scoops,” and will be lovingly missed by her grandchildren: Brett (Sarah), Mackenzie (Kelsey), Blake (Alicia), Ted, Malory (Corey), Jackson (Courtney), Maggie (Steven), Holly (Eric), and Avery. She was also a treasured great-grandmother to Wren, Lawson, Cal, Tripp, Laine, Reis, Tate, and Lennon.

Born in 1934 in Goderich, Ontario, Evelyn was the daughter of the late Dorothy (Bell) and George McCabe. She is lovingly remembered by her brothers, with whom she shared a special bond: Don and Joan McCabe of Collingwood, and Larry and Denise McCabe of Goderich. She was predeceased by in-laws Marion and Harold Warren, and Bill and Beverley Reis and Helen Drennan. She will also be fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews.

Evelyn was a strong and devoted presence in both her family and community. Deeply involved in her church, she served in many roles at Knox Presbyterian Listowel over the years, including elder, secretary, and Sunday school teacher. She formed lasting friendships through her ladies’ group which brought her great joy and companionship. She also enjoyed many happy times with her McLaren Ave. neighbours, sharing laughter and good conversations with her cherished “wine-o’’ group. Her years at Wallace Public school were marked by meaningful friendships and a deep sense of care for both colleagues and students. She would fondly remark “they went to Wallace School” reflecting her pride in that chapter of her life.

Ev and Jack deeply treasured the many friendships they cultivated over the years in both Goderich and Listowel. Above all, she loved her family deeply. She was a devoted and enthusiastic supporter of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, taking great joy in their lives and accomplishments. She will be missed beyond measure.

A private family service will be held to celebrate and honour her life well lived. Interment in Fairview Cemetery, Listowel. Our family are deeply and eternally grateful for the care and love mom received while at Royal Terrace, where she was treated with warmth, dignity, kindness and compassion. In lieu of flowers, donations to honour Evelyn may be made to the Knox Presbyterian Memorial Fund, Royal Terrace Resident’s Council or to the charity of one’s choice, and may be made through Eaton Funeral Home, Listowel. Online condolences may be left at www.eatonfuneralhome.ca

OBITUARY

BRUNO FRANCIS LAPAINE

Bruno Francis Lapaine died peacefully on June19th 2026, after a lengthy illness. He was born on Aug. 17, 1937 to Felix and Mira in Idrija Slovenia, which at the time was part of Italy. He and his parents emigrated to Canada in 1951. He married Mary Elizabeth Curry in 1959 and they had 3 children; Michael (Lucie), Sonja(Pat) and Gregory. Bruno had a gregarious personality which made him the consummate salesman. His successful, diverse career spanned real estate (Alexander and Chapman), hospitality (Bedford Hotel) and international sales of heavy equipment (Champion and Timberland). He spoke several languages and, through is work, travelled to dozens of countries which provided endless entertaining anecdotes of his adventures. His endless energy put him at the center of any social occasion, and he approached any new endeavour, such as cooking, and woodworking, with exuberant passion. His Bolognese sauce was frequently requested by his friends and family.

The family is eternally grateful to Dr. Peel, Dan Barsky and their team, the Palliative Care Outreach team (Kiera, Shelley and Brooklyn) for all the compassion and care they provided to Bruno.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, his 3 children, 8 grandchildren, the Lapaines – Pierre (Sari), Andre (Nicole), Maja (Connor); Sarah, Sydney (Martin), Isabelle, the Plunketts – Amanda (Andrew) and Matthew (Rosa), 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Bruno is also survived by his in-laws Joan (David) Perham, Fran Hilton and Ed (Jennie) Curry. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son in law Robert Plunkett, his grandson Jeffrey Plunkett, and his beloved dogs.

Visitation was held from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday June 24 at St. Peter’s Church in Goderich, eulogies were presented at 10:45 a.m. and funeral mass followed at 11:00. Interment Maitland Cemetery. Reception was held at the Maitland Golf Course. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations be directed to Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Foundation - MRI campaign in Goderich.

SIBERIAN HUSKIES FOR SALE. – Home of Disney

“Snow Dog.” Over 60 years experience. Colour choices. Vaccinated. Micro-Chipped. Intelligent. Excellent temperament. Loveable companion pets. BOARDING for all breeds. Pet supplies. OKIOK KENNEL, 35619 Salem Rd., Parkhill (near Mt. Carmel). 519-294-0494 No Texts.

WANTED TO BUY – All collectibles including sports cards, beanie babies, Funko pops and stamps. Highest prices paid. Free appraisals.Are you downsizing or need an estate clean out? We can help. We are at the Pinery Market at Grand Bend every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call or text Stan anytime 519-868-3814.

OBITUARY

May 28th, 1932- June 24th, 2026

On June 24th, 2026 in Clinton, ON, Rowena Martha Hoy went home to be with God in her 95th year, happily reunited with her husband and daughter. Rowena was born May 28th, 1932 in Kincardine the youngest of 7. She grew up in Kincardine, but moved to Goderich when she married her husband, Mervyn, where they raised their family. Rowena was a long-time member of the Bethel Pentecostal Church. After her youngest child started school, Rowena went to work at Maitland Manor Nursing Home for 18 years as a nurse’s aid. She was a devoted and loving mom and a doting grandma, great-grandma and great-great-grandma. She never met a baby or child she didn’t love cuddling and the feeling was mutual. Rowena will be missed so very much by her children Janette and Laverne Felkar of Gowanstown, Corinne and Larry McNeil of Goderich, George and Jane Hoy of Dungannon, Bonnie Bowman of Goderich, Cheryl and Dave Martin of Goderich, Faith and Bill Blaney of Bayfield and Greg Potter of Hanover, as well as 15 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Mervyn, her daughter, Judy Potter, her son-in-law, Brian Bowman, as well as her parents, Edith Miller and John Hartwick, step-father, George Dixon, sisters Charlotte, Marie, Caroline and Mildred, brothers Robert and Miller, mother-inlaw Ida and father-in-law Arthur Hoy and many cherished brothers and sisters-in-law. Until we meet again, rest well in Jesus’ arms. Visitation took place on Monday, June 29th, 2026 at McCallum and Palla Funeral Home, Goderich from 12:00- 1:00 pm, Rowena’s funeral followed at 1:00 pm. Rowena will be laid to rest alongside her husband at Colborne Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rowena’s memory can be directed to the Menesetung bridge. Family and friends may sign the book of condolences at www.mccallumpalla.ca.

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 7 a.m.- 6 p.m. Mon-Sat at Martins Nursery c/o Emanuel Martin. 42661 Orangehill Rd., Wroxeter, ON

CAMPFIRE WOOD Seasoned hardwood, bagged and ready for your summer enjoyment. $7.00/bag $20/3 bags $30/5 bags. Face cords available. Call or text for pick up. Delivery available in the Goderich/Point Farms/Bayfield area. Jim 519-301-1395

HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY’S 2026 GARDEN TOUR

On Saturday, July 11 the Goderich District Horticultural Society (GDHS) will host its 2026 Garden Tour from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Rain or shine.

This non-profit group takes care of several flower beds around Goderich and hold several events.

The money raised at this tour is spent on plants for these gardens and to support other community groups that work hard to make Goderich the Prettiest Town in Canada.

Advance tickets are available at Bees Knees, Schaefer’s Ladies Wear and the Goderich Tourist Information Centre. Tickets are $10 per person.

For more information contact: betty.hendriks@bell.net

PANCAKE BREAKFAST IN CARLOW

On Saturday, July 11 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Carlow Masonic Hall.

Serving sausage, eggs, and pancakes with juice and coffee. Adults $12.50, children aged 7-12 $7, and children under the age of 6 are free. Proceeds for community events.

BLOOD DONATION CLINIC

On Thursday, July 16 from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Columbus Centre on Parsons Court.

‘WE’LL MEET AGAIN’ CENTENARY GALA

On Friday, July 17 from 8 p.m. until 12 a.m. at the Goderich Legion.

THE TOM PETTY EXPERIENCE

In Memory of Leslie and Mary Schultz

When we come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for us, remember the love that we shared, and that will comfort thee.

Love Mary and family

Coming

Display

On Saturday, July 18 at 6:30 p.m. at The Livery. Full Petty Fever brings the hits of Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and the Traveling Wilburys to the stage.

ROCK AND ROLL NIGHT AT BOSTON PIZZA

On Saturday, July 18 from 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. at Boston Pizza.

Join in an unforgettable evening of music as ‘No Expectations’, the dynamic band from Bruce County takes the stage playing favourite rock classics from the 90s back to the late 60s.

HURON BJJ SUMMER CAMP

Beginning on Monday, July 20 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Huron BJJ on Anglesea Street in Goderich.

Join in the fantastic experience open to both members and non-members.

Held all week from July 20 until July 24.

SENIORS MENTAL HEALTH SEMINAR

On Thursday, July 23 from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. at Goderich Place.

Topic: Anxiety and Panic Attacks.

Guest Speaker: Frances Taylor, RN, MN from Huron Perth Seniors Mental Health Services.

Space is limited, so please RSVP at activationgp@hurontel. on.ca

Admission is free.