Simcoe Advocate- May 21, 2026

Grace period approved for waste cart exchange

LUKE EDWARDS

Grant Haven Media

Norfolk residents will have a chance to test drive their new waste carts when the county moves over to its new collection program later this year.

Eventually those who wish to exchange their carts for a different style will have to pay a $50 fee, however, for the first six months they’ll be given the opportunity for a free exchange after councillors included an amendment to a staff report at the May 12 council-in-committee meeting.

“We’re asking the municipality to go through a significant amount of change, I think there should be a little bit of grace and a little bit of leeway to allow them to get used to it without slapping on another fee right away,” said Coun. Alan Duthie, whose friendly amendment to offer a six-month grace period received approval from his fellow councillors.

Beginning in September, Norfolk will be moving to a new waste collection system. Highlights include the introduction of a new weekly organics program, and biweekly garbage collection using new automated collection bins.

There are different options for waste collection bins, including a downsized style. The standard waste bin for residents is 240 litres, which is about three to four standard garbage bags. The organics bins are 120 litres, and residents can opt to downsize their waste bins to the same 120 litre size.

Farms and participating commercial locations will receive a standard 360-litre waste bin alongside the

Join the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk

Dave Horton acknowledges there has been a personal need in his desire to organize the local Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk, although he admits it is time for him to step back as the lead.

“My wife, Judy, has had MS (multiple sclerosis) for 47

years,” said Horton. “She has done remarkably well. “We have had others who have been helping out with the walk, probably as long or longer than I have. I first came as a walker, registered, and realized that I needed to be more involved. This is our 26th year, this year.”

One of the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk committee members has MS, he noted. Another has a very good friend who has MS. One is the daughter of someone who has

Simcoe-Norfolk’s annual MS Walk is led by volunteers

MS.

“It’s just important to us,” said Horton. You can learn more about MS at mscanada.ca with links to an Intro to MS, Managing MS, Finding Support, MS Research and how to Take Action.

“We find out what kind of research is being done, and we rely on MS Canada to continue to give us support services to those with MS, as required.”

The Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk on May 31st is one of the few volunteer-led MS walks in Canada, Horton noted.

“We are kind of fortunate that we have a small group that can put together a Walk like this.”

MAY 31st MS WALK

Check-in on May 31st will start at 9 a.m., or even a bit earlier, at the Simcoe Legion,

200 West Street. Opening ceremonieswith dignitaries - will start approximately 10:30 a.m., then warmup, followed by the official start of the walk at 11 a.m.

“We have a face painter and some outdoor games this year (cornhole) that adults and kids can get involved with,” said Horton, chair of the Grand Erie chapter of the MS Society of Canada and organizer of the 26th Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk. “And there’s a pet station as well – if anyone brings their dog, there will be an actual station set up for them at the Legion.”

Participants have the option of walking 2 km or 5 km.

“The 2 km is 1 km out and 1 km back –we have a turnaround point.”

As of Mother’s Day, about 60-plus walkers had pre-registered, so far committing to more than $20,000 in donations. Organizers hope to be around 100 people by May 31st. The Simcoe-Norfolk target is

roughly $60,000 by the end of the day (officially $55,000, set by the MS Canada Toronto office).

“Of course, they are hoping that we are going to exceed it again this year. I was amazed how much we actually made last year.”

In its first 25 years, nearly $1 million was raised.

The morning starts with a light breakfast (donated coffee and food). The Kaley’s Restaurant food truck will be on site to serve participants sausages and burgers after the walk. There will also be other donated food, including pizza from Domino’s.

“People won’t go home hungry, for sure,” Horton laughed.

A pre-walk MS fundraiser brunch was held at Kaley’s Restaurant in Simcoe.

“This was a fantastic day,” said Horton

on Mother’s Day, noting funds raised go to the Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk. “We had 57 registered, plus walk-ins, which is great, and we’ve been very busy ever since about 9 o’clock.”

Three local MS Walk committee volunteers, with some training, were kept busy serving food to assist Kaley’s owner (Kaley Horton) and staff.

“They just love doing it, and they are so good at it!” smiled Dave Horton, who was able to spend his morning greeting customers and thanking them for coming. “Same as last year, all they needed was just a little refresher. They are so good and just busy, busy, busy.

“You get a day like today and it makes all the difference. Hopefully on Walk Day, everyone is going to go home ‘smiling’… and tired. We’re looking forward to good weather and a good turnout.”

Lester hopes to reach milestone in MS fundraising

CHRIS ABBOTT Editor

Nancy Lester has participated in MS Walks for the last 27 years. This year her goal is to raise $10,000 in MS Walk donations by May 31st, and surpass the $250,000 fundraising mark over the 28 years.

“I’m going to get on the phone and get around the next couple of weeks and work on it pretty hard,” said Nancy, who will be walking 2 km with husband Larry Lester in this year’s Simcoe-Norfolk MS Walk.

Nancy, originally from Simcoe, acknowledges that her fundraising success is a result of the generosity of the community and area businesses that have supported her over the years.

KELSEY’S FUNDRAISER

To celebrate her achievement, as well as to say

thanks, Kelsey’s Roadhouse in Tillsonburg will be hosting an event Thursday, May 27 from 4-10 p.m.

On the 27th, Kelsey’s will be contributing 20 per cent of all sales toward the MS cause. There will be live music by Fred Hodgson along with draws and prizes. Everyone is invited to join the fun.

“I think the event at Kelsey’s will be good for me,” said Nancy, who plans to be there the full six hours. “A lot of people who usually donate to me, have not yet. So I’m pretty confident I’ll be able to make it.”

Nancy has been joining Simcoe’s MS Walk the last three-four years.

“I just think it’s nice to meet people on a common ground. Either they are fighting MS or somebody they love... So you meet a lot of people and I enjoy that. That’s what I like

about it the most.”

Nancy, who will soon be 75, was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 47.

“I was in really bad shape at that time. Then, of course, they’ve got a lot of medication you can take – they’ve been making strides. It certainly helped me. My reasoning (to join her first MS Walk in London) was to fight back… and hope that there are medications, and eventually a cure. Canada has one of the highest rates of MS in the world.”

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, resulting in physical and cognitive symptoms. Nancy has relapse-remitting MS.

“It can be up and down. You can have a bad spell and sometimes you get over it, or it progresses.”

If she reaches the

$250,000 mark this yearand she is truly hopeful –Nancy says she will ‘retire’ from annual fundraising. It should be noted, donations can still be accepted up to one month after the walk.

“To be clear, I’m not stopping in MS Walks, I’m just not going to reach out to a lot of people (for donations),” she laughed. “I’m 75, so I think I’ll calm down a bit.”

Residents can switch carts in the six months after launch

120-litre organics bin. They’ll be able to downsize to either of the smaller waste bin options.

Residents and businesses are required to confirm their selection by June 12. However, the new grace period will give them a chance to switch their choice free of charge if it turns out their initial selection doesn’t suit them.

“I feel we need at least a six-month trial on it,” said Coun. Linda Vandendriessche, adding there are many older and rural residents with longer driveways who are unsure which bins will be best for them.

kitchen container for organics. There’s no grace period for those containers. County staff said they’re uncertain how much the grace period for the waste bins will cost the municipality since there’s no real way to know how many requests will be made. The $50 fee is meant to offset the cost to the municipality.

The grace period isn’t meant for people who damage or destroy their bins through negligence.

Beyond the waste bin fees, the county is also implementing a $10 fee for those who wish to purchase an additional

The move to biweekly garbage collection and weekly organics collection is being made to divert waste away from landfilling. Landfill space in the province is rapidly disappearing and tipping fees are only expected to increase, so staff say diverting as much as possible from the landfill benefits everyone. Organics programs also offer environmental benefits.

The new program launches Sept. 28. For more information on the new program, visit norfolkcounty.ca/wastechanges.

Tragic drownings near St. Williams

LEAH BAUER

Advocate Contributor

On May 11, 2026 the bodies of a 7-yearold child and a 53-year-old adult from Norfolk County were found deceased in Lake Erie near St. Williams, wearing life jackets. The bodies were reportedly discovered by a passing boater, and then recovered by the Coast Guard.

OPP West Region Sgt. Ed Sanchuk delivered the news of this immense tragedy to the community in his West Region public Facebook video, expressing his deep condolences, stating “As a father, I can’t imagine what you’re going through.”

The community has rallied around this family with hundreds of people commenting, expressing sympathy and prayers for those affected. As members of a lakeside

community, the collective empathy felt for those affected by drownings and water-related tragedies cannot be understated.

Tragedies such as this serve as a grim reminder to the community that accidents can happen even to experienced boaters, swimmers, and fishermen. Norfolk Water Safety Promoters Keaira Muntz-Foerster and Rachel Toft described how “promoting boating safety, especially during this time of year is essential. Instances like these serve as important reminders to thoroughly prepare and consider all safety measures before heading out on the water.”

The pair also mentioned how the cold weather and lake temperatures can add increased risk to lake related activities.

“While wearing a lifejacket is of upmost importance, it is not the only factor to consider. Unpredictable conditions on

open water can quickly lead to dangerous conditions. In particular, cold water poses a significant, and often underestimated, risk. The temperature of the water is a vital factor to consider before going boating. This is included in the important step we suggest all boaters take before boating: check the weather, make a plan.”

This year Lake Erie experienced its deepest freeze in 30 years, with ice coverage reaching approximately 96% in February. Cold water temperatures early in the season is a factor that causes increased risk every year, though this year the threat is that much higher.

Muntz-Foerster and Toft believe that water temperature should be at the top of boaters' minds when they head out on the water. “Checking the weather and making a plan before boating should always in-

Photography, recording meetings likely to

as they follow certain conditions.

ther an agenda.

It now appears recording at Norfolk County meetings will be open to everyone, though councillors returned the issue back to staff over some confusion regarding the potential requirement for media accreditation.

Following a presentation earlier this spring from Port Dover Maple Leaf reporter David Judd regarding rules prohibiting the use of photography and audio/video recording devices at council and committee meetings, council requested staff review the policy and look at allowing members of the media to photograph and record meetings. When staff returned with a report at the May 12 council-in-committee meeting, they offered three options: allow anyone to record with no conditions, allow anyone to record but include conditions aimed at reducing interruptions, or maintaining the prohibition. Staff recommended the option that allows media and members of the public to record, as long

However, a draft document that included potential conditions also made reference to requiring members of the media to register for accreditation, leading councillors to question the point of forcing accreditation to allow reporters to do what any member of the public will be allowed to do.

“If they’re not going to get special treatment out of going through the paperwork process, why do it?” asked Coun. Chris Van Paassen. Unless accreditation came with special privileges, Van Paassen said it made no sense.

By and large, councillors seemed to agree that allowing members of the media to record meetings made sense. However, some were still uneasy with the move to open it up to anyone. Coun. Kim Huffman said she was under the impression staff would be implementing a policy that only allowed accredited media professionals to record and photograph. She had fears over bad faith members of the public taking a snippet of a meeting out of context to fur-

However, others pointed out meetings are already streamed online through YouTube and with modern technology those bad faith actors don’t need to record a meeting in person to cause damage.

“We live in a free and democratic society and the public should have access to council meetings, council proceedings in a free and fair and reasonable manner,” said Coun. Tom Masschaele.

“I have to assume positive intent until I am proven otherwise.”

Other conditions included in the draft document included restricting flash, lighting and sound amplification devices if they disrupt meetings, operating recording equipment from a fixed location once the meeting starts and keeping aisles or access points clear.

It also included references to respecting the privacy of those who aren’t actively participating in the meeting and avoiding any behaviour that could distract councillors, staff or presenters.

The chair of the meeting would have the

clude considering water temperature - not just air temperature. Even on warm sunny days, early in the season, open water remains extremely cold. This can lead to cold shock and hypothermia which can impair breathing, moving, and decision-making within minutes. Many individuals underestimate how cold the water truly is and how quickly it can affect the body. Despite rising air temperatures, the water temperatures can remain dangerously low, making cold water a critical factor in boating, and open water safety.”

The tragic loss of two lives has left an immense impact on the Norfolk community. As friends, neighbours, and community members alike continue to offer support to the grieving family, many are also being reminded of the danger and unpredictability of open water.

ability to force a person to stop recording if they break the rules, or ask them to leave the chambers altogether.

EDITORIAL

Auditor General of Ontario hits the road

Ford government out of touch with Ontarians

Haldimand-Norfolk

MPP

Bobbi Ann Brady

Since being first elected in 2022, I’ve heard plenty of concerns from you about trucking accidents.

So, it was gratifying the Auditor General of Ontario’s (Shelley Spence) latest round of Special Reports, released May 12th, contained within it a full report entitled Large Commercial Truck Driver Licensing. And looking at her report and poking around the media for their take, her findings were unnerving.

The Auditor General’s report finds Ontario's oversight on the training and licensing of commercial truck drivers is falling short, resulting in a concerning number of unqualified drivers on the road. She emphasized various issues, revealing some career colleges are skimping on both training hours and essential skill development, all while facing minimal scrutiny from two provincial ministries.

Her findings showed six unregistered private career colleges were conducting driving tests and issuing training certificates, despite lacking required authorization. The Auditor General made 13 recommendations to improve the situation, to which the province has agreed.

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To get a fix on training quality, last year the Auditor sent undercover students to those six training providers for sixmonth programs. Turned out two of the private colleges provided only 59.5 and 81 hours of the 103.5 required training hours. Additionally, some students lacked instruction in crucial driving techniques such as making left turns at major intersections, reverse parking, and emergency stopping.

The Auditor qualified these findings cannot be blanketed across all of the province, but they serve as a red flag. But who among us hasn’t heard stories about this issue? Ms. Spence emphasized the need for regulatory controls to ensure students are receiving the necessary training. That’s on the government.

I’m not surprised that between 2019 and 2024, the Ministry of Colleges identified three registered private career colleges altering student training records; four lacking evidence of students completing required components; and, three failing to teach all mandated elements of the training program. Ms. Spence discovered that as of March 2025, 54 of the 216 registered private career colleges providing entry-level commercial truck training had never been inspected by the Ministry.

And like police services in the past who couldn’t or didn’t share information between themselves, her report pointed out the Ministry of Colleges does not have a process in place to regularly share inspection information with the Ministry of Transportation, which is responsible for enforcement.

Additionally, neither ministry monitored the training outcomes for commercial truck drivers, such as road test pass or fail rates, post-licensing driving infraction rates, or collision rates, according to the report. The report further revealed that truckers' driving tests did not assess all highway maneuvers at highway speeds.

The Ministry of Colleges and Universities has recognized the failure to uphold the integrity of the post-secondary system is unacceptable.

In a separate development, some of my NDP colleagues took a road trip to the Manitoba border and back to highlight driving dangers, particularly in winter, and they attributed the problems on northern roads to training and licensing gaps, as well as infrastructure deficiencies.

Eighteen-wheelers are a critical part of our economy, keeping goods moving and shelves stocked, but they are also massive vehicles travelling our highways day and night. That is why government has a responsibility to ensure the safety not only of the drivers behind the wheel, but of every family sharing the road with them. The travelling public - parents driving back and forth to hockey arenas and soccer fields, shift workers commuting before sunrise, and people simply trying to get home safely at the end of the day - deserve confidence that our highways are safe. Road safety is not about choosing one over the other; it is about recognizing that everyone on our roadways has a right to make it home safely.

***

The spring session of the Ontario Legislature feels very short - likely because it is. But it is also short on substance, unless you believe democracy works best when voices are quieter, scrutiny is limited, and debate is rushed.

On May 7, Bill 101, Putting Student Achievement First Act, 2026, received Royal Assent. The legislation ushers in sweeping changes to Ontario’s education system, concentrating more power at the provincial level, reducing the role of locally elected school board trustees, and expand-

ing standardized student assessments.

What is perhaps most remarkable is not only the scope of the changes, but the speed at which they were made. Legislation that fundamentally reshapes public education moved from introduction to Royal Assent in less than a month.

As a member of the government’s Finance and Economic Affairs Committee I was called to an in-camera meeting to set dates and times for public consultations on Bill 105 - Protecting Ontario’s Workers and Economic Resilience Act, 2026. This is normal procedure, but what was particularly alarming was the government’s decision to give the public just a six-hour window to contact the Clerk’s Office and register to appear before committee. Consultations scheduled a week away were effectively closed off in a matter of hours.

That does not signal a government eager to hear from Ontarians. It suggests the presenters were already lined up and that broader public input was viewed as an inconvenience rather than an essential part of the democratic process.

The legislative sessions at Queen’s Park are becoming shorter and shorter, allowing the Ford government to ram through large volumes of legislation in compressed periods of time, limiting consultation and minimizing meaningful pushback from the opposition benches. That should concern every Ontarian, regardless of political stripe. It also steadily chips away at the ability of individual MPPs to do the job they were elected to do. Fewer sitting days mean fewer opportunities for members to ask questions, raise concerns on behalf of their communities, and place issues on the public record through statements and debate. Democracy is not strengthened when scrutiny is reduced.

Quite frankly, I find this as troubling as the Ford government’s well-documented spending problem, despite this is the guy who built a brand on being the one who was going to stop reckless spending and corrupt politics.

Premier Ford talked a great game when he was working to win the 2018 election and his platform looked like a return to common sense and fiscal conservatism. Here’s a quote: “When I am elected premier, I will stand up for all Ontario taxpayers and eliminate the per-vote subsidy given to political parties in Ontario. This will save taxpayers millions of dollars each year.” That gravy train has not been parked.

Ontarians are scrimping and saving while navigating the affordability crisis. The gravy train became the gravy plane. Your pilot Doug Ford went ahead with the flip-flop purchase/sale of a $28.9 million jet, coming on the heels of announcing the expansion of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. We are all tightening our belts and grappling with an affordability crisis while Ford burns through money quickly. Billions of dollars for controversial projects and political priorities. Take the billions tied to Ontario Place and the Therme spa. Plus, billions more for Highway 413 amidst environmental and fiscal worries. The hundreds of millions to accelerate alcohol sales in convenience stores while emergency rooms close across rural Ontario. And epic announcements about tunnels under the 401 before Ontarians even know the true cost.

I believe the Ford government has become disconnected from you. It is time to implement practical policy that puts more money back in your pockets, while also getting our critical public services back on track through reimagining and reform.

Norfolk to take another shot at BYOA rules

Grant Haven Media

County councillors weren’t quite ready for last call on a staff recommendation regarding bring-your-own-alcohol rules for outdoor events in the municipality.

Instead, they referred a report in the consent agenda back to staff to provide some more information and allow for a more fulsome discussion at the next council-in-committee meeting in June. Staff were recommending to keep restrictions in place, despite provincial changes that made it possible for municipalities to allow bring-your-own-alcohol permits for outdoor events.

“I think it needs to come back to the council table for a full discussion,” said Coun. Kim Huffman. As of April 30, organizers of certain outdoor cultural or community events could apply for a BYOA permit, “provided the municipality first authorizes alcohol consumption

in public spaces and designates eligible events,” the staff report said.

Given a lack of new enforcement powers or risk-mitigation tools that come with the new rules, staff recommended against allowing BYOA permits.

Existing controlled alcohol service environments that come with licenced events help manage consumption and reduce the risk of over-intoxication, the report said.

“The absence of these controls may increase the potential for over-consumption, disorderly behaviour, impaired driving, youth access and related enforcement challenges,” it said. “Increased liability and insurance exposure, higher operational demands on multiple municipal departments, and potential additional pressures on public spaces and neighbourhoods.”

Coun. Alan Duthie said he wanted to get more insight on input and who the county consulted before making a decision.

Ontario Parks leads Turkey Point tree replanting

LUKE EDWARDS Grant Haven Media

New native trees and shrubs being planted at Turkey Point are primarily a restoration effort and should not impact beach access or recreational areas.

Marie Steiner, a divisional coordinator in the office of the CAO, provided information to Norfolk council at the May 12 council-in-committee meeting after public questions arose from the work that began last month. Since it is led by Ontario Parks and classified as a minor project, limited information was shared to the public and municipality, though those with questions are encouraged to reach out to Ontario Parks.

“The purpose of the planting is ecological restoration specifically replacing na-

tive trees and shrubs lost due to storms, erosion and natural decline, stabilizing the shoreline with deeper rooted vegetation, and supporting long term resilience to high water levels and storm events,” said Steiner.

“Ontario Parks has confirmed this work is not intended to reduce beach access or change how recreational areas are used.”

According to the county’s information report, tree loss has affected about three kilometres of Turkey Point Provincial Park beachfront.

Residents with further questions can contact park staff by email at turkeypoint@ontario.ca or by phone at 519-4263239. Alternatively, residents may contact the park superintendent, Jeff Pickersgill, by email at jeffrey.pickersgill@ontario.ca or by phone at 519-426-5938.

Weekend Quiz

By Jake Grant

1. An educated guess made at the start of an experiment is called what?

2. What does VHS stand for?

3. Which celebrity has fulfilled the most Make-A-Wish requests?

4. The Dead Sea is located between which two countries?

5. An orca can also be called a what?

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New naming policy seeks to clear up confusion

LUKE EDWARDS

Grant Haven Media

What’s in a name? Well, in Norfolk at least, there’s plenty of potential for confusion.

A new policy approved at the May 12 council-in-committee meeting seeks to end that confusion, as town staff are bringing together rules for similar but different naming conventions.

The new rules seek to clarify the purpose and process for naming, as well as the difference between commemorative naming and sponsorship.

“The purpose of the policy today is to ensure some clarity, consistency and fairness about the naming of public places and recognizing contributors in Norfolk County,” said Brian Geerts, director of Parks, Recreation and Culture.

Norfolk has had a sponsorship and naming rights policy since 2007, that did not

include any formal policy for commemorative naming.

“Over time, this gap has resulted in confusion between commemorative recognition and sponsorship agreements, particularly where both involve signage, naming, or public recognition of individuals or organizations,” a staff report said.

The new policy contains criteria and process for commemorative naming, including suitability criteria. Council will also provide final approval for commemorative naming of major assets, with staff having approval authority over minor assets. And there are now “clear revocation provisions to address reputational risk or material changes associated with a namesake,” the report said.

Naming for roads and streets will remain outside this policy, as will objects like memorial benches, core services buildings like EMS buildings and libraries, and cemeteries.

6. What archeologist discovered King Tuts tomb?

7. How many times zones are there in Canada?

8. What year did Leonardo DiCaprio finally win his first Oscar?

9. Before Tokyo became the capital city of Japan, where was the capital located?

10. How many syllables are in the word Mississippi?

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Backhouse Mill: Repairing an iconic Norfolk landmark

LEAH BAUER

Advocate Contributor

Whether you are a history buff, a fan of scenic nature, or just someone who grew up around the area, it is likely that you have heard about the Backhouse Mill.

The Backhouse Mill has been an important and cherished landmark in Norfolk for centuries. While the Millhouse was retired from its original duty of providing the community with flour in 1956, its legacy and importance continues nonetheless. In 1998 the Backhouse Mill was designated a National Historic Site since it is one of Canada’s oldest, still standing, water-powered grist mills.

These past weeks Backhouse Mill has been competing in The Next Great Save, in hopes to earn a grant which would give them $50,000 towards structural repairs. While they were unable to acquire the $50,000, Backhouse Mill received thousands of votes proving its importance to the Norfolk community. According to Long Point Settlers, an impressive collection of the history and settlement of Norfolk County compiled by R. Robert Mutrie, the Backhouse family originated from John Backhouse, who left his native England in 1793. Originally, he spent a few years in New York and New Jersey, then moved north to the Niagara region before arriving in the Long Point Settlement near Walsingham in 1798.

As an early settler, Backhouse used his land in Walsingham to build a water-powered grist mill in 1798. The mill was the first in the township, and played a crucial role in providing flour to the community during and after the War of 1812. The significance of the mill was heightened by the fact that it was one of the few mills overlooked by the American Brig. General Duncan McArthur during his 1814 mill-burning raid.

who grew up going to Backhouse Mill will quickly recall. As the story goes, other mills in the area were being burned in the infamous war campaign which aimed to interfere with Canadian provisions by removing the ability for self-sufficient flour production. As Major of the 1st Norfolk Militia, Backhouse stationed himself in Turkey Point with “two or three hundred militiamen.” It is “alleged by the old settlers” that Backhouse prevented a landing of the Americans at Fort Norfolk (a small fort in the hills of Turkey Point) by “making a vain display of his bright red uniform on the heights above, while the enemy was approaching the fort.”

While the lore surrounding why the Backhouse Mill survived is largely a mix of hearsay and local pride, there is one thing that is impossible to debate; Backhouse Mill is one of the oldest and best-preserved water powered mills in Canada, making it very historically significant.

Today, Backhouse Mill is a historic site, and it is visited by hundreds of people every year for the iconic War of 1812 reenactments at Backus Heritage Conservation Area, as well as for a variety of other tours and events.

Chloe Anna, curator for the Long Point Region Conservation Authority, and Jessica King, the Marketing and Social Media Associate, highlighted the importance of the Backhouse Historic Site, stating the Mill “showcases the incredible family legacy of the Backhouses. In our community the mill represents the hardworking local residents and their resilience during times of trouble.”

This legacy lives: “Today it is a major piece of our historic village where we host programs, tours and community events.”

al assessment done at the end of 2025” which revealed the Mill had severe structural damages. This means that tours are no longer possible inside the Mill that houses “technology that is over 200 years old.”

Long Point Settlers reiterates the common story those

Chloe, Jessica, and the team at Long Point Region Conservation Authority, are working tirelessly to find ways to keep this important historical building preserved for generations to come. They described how they “had a structur-

To counter this, LPRCA has been applying for various grants, including The Next Great Save, a contest that did not prove successful for the attainment of a grant, but did demonstrate the special place this historic building has in the hearts of thousands of people in Norfolk. Those interested in making a donation towards the Backhouse Mill, and the Long Point Region Conservation Authority’s goal of fixing the structural issues can make a donation online at: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/144784.

Simcoe plant and garage sale features ‘variety’

CHRIS ABBOTT

Editor

A steady stream of plant enthusiasts visited Simcoe and District Horticultural Society’s annual Plant & Garage Sale on May 9, featuring 18 vendors in the Norfolk fairgrounds parking lot.

“Fantastic variety,” said Bill Yeager, a lifetime horticultural society member. “Dozens and dozens of varieties.”

Located on Culver Road (near Townsend Butchers), Yeager said he would continue selling plants through the spring.

“People come year after year and we talk plants. Plant people like to talk plants. And if anybody drops by in the next couple of weeks, they will see tons of stuff they don’t see anywhere else. I try to keep prices ridiculously low.”

“Most plants are $2, except for Hostas, they’re $5, and Solomon Seal, they’re $3,” said Susan Davidson, talking with a customer at her table. “The lilacs, they’re $1… or free, whichever you choose.”

Davidson, from the Vittoria area, did note ‘everything’s late’ this year due to colder-than-normal spring temperatures.

“Well, it’s been late getting out into the garden. A lot of the Hostas have been late opening.”

Despite cool temperatures, sales were brisk Saturday morning.

“Oh my goodness, yes,” said Anne Roberts from Port Dover, selling most of her plants, including almost all of the pollinators.

“We seem to be doing pretty good,” said Helen Uren, president of the Simcoe and District Horticultural Society, pleased to see ‘hundreds of people.’

“We’ve had a lot of people today, it’s been very successful. I think maybe the best because we’re selling a lot of stuff.

“It’d be nice if it was a little warmer,” she added with a smile. “We’ve had such cold weather, this is not too bad.”

Cold, but not the coldest spring that gardeners have weathered over the decades and decades of the horticultural society’s history.

“They’ve been having plant sales from probably 1896,” Uren noted. “We are 130 years old. And we’ve always had plant sales.”

The plant and garden sale has been held at the Norfolk Fairgrounds for the past 10 years.

“We have 18 vendors, I think, who rent for $10. And I’m not going to increase it because I’d rather more people are here, as opposed to charging more and getting less.

I want it to be a community event… and it looks like we’re doing pretty good.”

The horticultural society operated five tables Saturday with members donating plants and garage sale items.

“Some stuff I’ve never seen before,” Uren said. “We’re pretty happy with that.”

Simcoe & District Horticultural Society meetings are the second Wednesday of the month, 7:30 p.m. at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds’ Junior Farmers building, 172 South Drive, Simcoe. Meetings are held in

March, April, and September to December. The website is gardenontario.org/site.php/ Simcoe. They can also be found on Facebook (@simcoehort) and Instagram. Email simcoehorticultural@gmail.com for more information.

Annual dues are $10 per person or $18/ family. Numerous local garden centres offer a 10% discount to members.

Horticultural society events include garden tours, bus trips, and an annual flower show (August 8th this year).

Friends of the Library supports new Sensory Room

The Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter recently donated $5,000 to the Norfolk County Public Library to support the development of a new Sensory Room within the Hazel B. Race Children’s Programming Room at the Simcoe Branch.

The new Sensory Room is being created as an inclusive, welcoming space designed to support library visitors with sensory processing needs. The space will offer calming, interactive resources and experiences that encourage comfort and engagement, and will contain equipment that stimulates or calms the senses.

“This generous donation from the Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter helps us create a space where visitors of all abilities feel supported, comfortable, and included,” said Julie Kent, NCPL CEO in a media release. “We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing dedication and support the Friends groups provide to our Library system and community, and we sincerely thank the Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter for helping bring this meaningful project to life.”

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute toward this very important fundraising, and we'll keep up the good work with our group!” said Diana Dale, Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter.

Development of the Sensory Room is in its beginning stages with additional up-

dates to be shared as the project progresses.

This is the second major contribution from the Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter in recent years. In 2025, the group raised and donated $5,000 to support the library’s Mobile Maker Cart initiative, helping bring MakerSpace technology and hands-on learning opportunities into the community through visits to

New timeline for Waterford road, infrastructure projects

LUKE EDWARDS Grant Haven Media

A collection of road projects in Waterford is being rejigged to minimize impact to the nearby elementary school and arena.

Road and infrastructure rehabilitation projects planned for Leamon, East Church and West Church streets will take place over the next two years, though a staff report recommended changes that allow crews to complete work during the summer months that would otherwise impact school staff and students, and those going to the arena.

“Thank you very much for relooking at this and making sure it was really conducive to the community and its needs,” said Coun. Kim Huffman, after staff introduced the report at the May 12 Norfolk council-in-committee meeting.

The new plan will see the work on Leamon Street done in phases. This year the plan is to perform work from Nichol Street to West Church Street, and finishing off the stretch to Thompson Road in 2027.

Work on West Church Street from Washington Road to Main Street will

also be moved up from 2027 to this year. East Church Street work from Main Street to Duncombe Road is slated to be completed next year.

“This significantly improves our ability to complete the works in and around the school during the summer months,” said Darnell Lambert, director of engineering and asset management for Norfolk.

Funding for the Leamon Street project, at $5 million, was included in the 2026 capital budget. The 10-year capital plan included just over $3.7 million in funding to be part of the 2027 budget for West Church and East Church streets. Changing the scope and timing doesn’t affect budgeting, the report said. Some money budgeted in 2026 will be held until 2027, but otherwise the county will be spending the same $8.7 million for the projects over two years that was originally planned.

Lambert said the goal for this year’s work is to have substantial completion in time for Waterford’s Pumpkinfest in October.

“Let’s hope for good weather so we’re all ready for Pumpkinfest,” said Huffman.

schools, organizations, and events across Norfolk County.

“We've had lots of fun raising funds through our book sales and A Christmas Carol and our Lunch and Learns,” said Amanda Van Schyndel, Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter.

The Friends of the Library groups play an important role in supporting library

programs, collections, spaces, and initiatives through fundraising and community advocacy.

Anyone interested in joining the Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter or learning more can contact the group at folsimcoebranch2@gmail.com.

For more information about the Norfolk County Public Library, visit ncpl.ca.

Silver Spokes roadside clean-up

Local singer nominated for four awards Olivia Mae Graham to perform at CMAO show

JEFF HELSDON Grant Haven Media

“Have boots will travel” is the chorus in Olivia Mae Graham’s song Boots that brought her to the Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAO) awards last year as a nominee for Breakthrough Artist of the Year. Little did she know her boots would be traveling in an upward direction, and the speed she would be going.

Graham is nominated for four awards this year for her new album Nobody, and her team for another two. She will also be one of nine performers taking to the stage for the awards show on May 31 at the Port Credit Memorial Arena.

The awards show tops off what has been a fast-paced couple of years for the young singer. She opened for Terri Clark at Burning Kiln, played at the Norfolk County Fair as the opener for the James Barker Band in 2024, and just recently released her first album Nobody.

The awards nomination process began in February and moved to a final ballot, the results of which were announced March 31.

“It’s been a couple of months of wondering and waiting,” she reflected in a recent interview.

Graham is again nominated for Breakthrough Artist of the Year, an award that an artist can be nominated for twice in their career. She is nominated for Female Artist of the Year, which is a huge testament to her talent, but having her debut album nominated for Album/EP of the Year was ‘over the top.’

“I’m so proud of this album,” she said. “To see it in that category, I cried. I didn’t think that was going to happen.”

She was also nominated for Music Video of the Year for Nobody.

Nobody producers Jay Allen and Aaron Murray were nominated for Record Producer of the Year, and her guitarist, Nolan Gibson, is nominated for Musician of the Year.

Graham said the nominations were “cool, mind-blowing”, but more was to come. With her direction up, the boots went to the accelerator when she was asked to perform at the awards show.

“When I asked to perform, this is everything I have ever dreamed of,” she said. “For me, that was a real cool milestone.”

The Norfolk County artist will be one of nine performers for the awards show.

“With the amount of people nominated, getting on the awards show is a pretty big thing,” she said.

One thing that’s different for Graham is she is an independent artist and has no record label backing her.

“It’s cool when you don’t have a record label behind you, and you hit those milestones. I’m just proud of the team I’ve been building,” she said.

Performing at the CMAO awards is more than just another performance. Graham plans to sing a new song from her album, which hasn’t been released yet, and will release it that day. She is aware the audience will be country music fans, including

a large contingent from this area, but also radio station executives and people a budding singer wants to make a good impact on.

“For me it’s a one-stop shop for a good impression,” she said.

With the awards finalists announced, and the performers listed a week later, it’s been a “whirlwind” for Graham. She has been having frequent media interviews, including an on-air interview with Country 107, which was special to her because she had grown up listening to the station.

Her success is much wider spread than this area though - it’s global. Nobody was released Canada-wide, in Australia, and the United Kingdom. She has done interviews with stations across the country and in Australia. Another interview was with Michelle Lee from a Nashville radio station. This was the first American station playing Nobody, and Lee told her, “Your music needs to be the center of everybody’s day.”

“Those kind of comments mean the world to me,” Graham said. “I’ve been writing songs forever. When people connect to them like that, we’re doing our job right.”

Graham has also been overwhelmed with messages of support from her friends, neighbours and local fans.

“To have a community rally around you is the coolest thing ever,” she said.

Saying it’s been a real tsunami of emotions in the past few weeks, Graham drew the analogy, “Sometimes it’s easy to wallow in sadness; we never wallow in happiness.”

Community for Graham means both Norfolk and Tillsonburg. She grew up in Norfolk, and identifies with both communities. Her connections run deep to both.

Saying she was singing before she was talking, Graham started taking music lessons when she was four from Alison and Darrin Schott, who lived around the corner from her. This couple is highly regarded as music teachers, based at the Roosevelt Dance Hall south of Glen Meyer at the time.

“How wild was it - I grew up in the middle of nowhere, and lucked into the most incredible music teachers in the middle of nowhere,” Graham said. “They’re the reason I know anything about music at all. I owe them the utmost credit.”

Alison is assisting her with her stage look for the awards performance.

With the performance at the CMAO awards being a pinnacle she has worked towards, preparing for that night has been her focus. She recalls shopping for a dress for the performance.

“My mom and I went shopping a few weeks ago when all of this got announced,” she recounted. “We scoured the boutiques, and found the perfect outfit for the awards weekends. For me, that’s when it became real.”

But, instead of buying the dress on the spot, she walked out of the store and sat in the car with her mother, still overwhelmed with the idea of performing at the awards, saying she couldn’t believe it was real.

“She said, ‘Honey, it’s already real,’”

Graham said of her mother’s response. And then, there’s the boots: Graham had to have a new pair for the show. Tillsonburg line dance teacher Lena Kovacs is helping with customizing the look of both the boots and Graham’s entire outfit for the evening. The budding young singer teased that hanging around with a line-dancing teacher may have rubbed off, and it may

show through in some manner in the future. The question on many fans' minds is if there will be a summer tour to support the album, to which Graham responded, “There’s no slowing down over here. We’ll definitely be planning more shows. I always say it’s one song, one show, and one fan at a time has always been my philosophy.”

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Native plants described as nature’s best hope

Norfolk Nature speaker event focuses on pollinator plants

LISA TIMPF Advocate Contributor

Pollinators play an important role in nature, in gardens, and in agriculture. But thanks to climate change, habitat destruction, pesticides, and other factors, pollinators are showing declining numbers. Fortunately, incorporating pollinator plants into gardens and landscapes can help.

Kevin Kavanagh and Dylan Cowan of South Coast Gardens were the featured presenters at Norfolk Nature’s May speaker event, held at the Simcoe Recreation Centre May 12. In their talk, Kavanagh and Cowan provided information about incorporating pollinator-friendly native plants into gardens.

Pollinators come in a variety of forms, says Kavanagh. Though bees and butterflies may be the first creatures that come to mind, beetles, flies, hornets, wasps, and moths can also serve as pollinators.

Birds like orioles, hummingbirds, and some finches, as well as mammals like bats and small rodents, may also pollinate plants. Some pollinators are nectar specialists, while others are pollen specialists.

Native plants - plants that have historically grown wild in a particular area - are important for pollinators because they have forged ecological relationships that have been functioning for thousands of years.

Though the term “pollinator plants” may bring flowers to mind, Kavanagh notes that trees and shrubs can also attract pollinators.

Some plants have evolved to attract specific pollinators, Kavanagh says. For example, red columbine is well-suited to draw ruby-throated hummingbirds, with its blooming period timed to provide a critical source of nutrients for the birds.

Closed bottle gentian, which has dark blue flowers, is adapted for bumblebees. Bumblebees are one of the few insects strong enough to crawl into the closed flower, where they drink nectar and, at the same time, deposit pollen.

Certain plants, like goldenrod, asters, perennial sunflowers, coneflower, lupins, sneezeweeds, bergamots, and mountain

mints, are referred to as “keystone species” because they support many different species of wildlife.

Kavanagh notes the importance of including plants with a variety of flowering periods. For example, asters and provide needed food for late-season pollinators.

While many of us enjoy watching bees and butterflies visiting flowering plants, shrubs, and trees on our property, some plants are designed to appeal to other creatures. Pawpaw trees, for example, attract carrion flies, blow flies, scorpion flies, and beetles.

The Magnolia Acuminata, also known as the cucumber tree, is one of the oldest trees on Earth. The cucumber tree is Ontario’s only native Magnolia species, and Norfolk County and the Niagara Region are the only locations in the province where it occurs naturally.

As one of the oldest trees on Earth, Kavanagh says, the cucumber tree evolved before butterflies, so its pollination relies entirely on beetles, who crawl into the buds before the flowers open.

Though many native plants are helpful for pollinators, their benefits go beyond flowering season. Many perennial plants offer seeds eaten by birds.

Plants like the spicebush provide fruit for migrating thrushes, while also serving as a host plant for spicebush swallowtails and the spicebush silk moth. Hackberry and button bush, as well as trees like oaks, cherries, and maples, also support numerous species.

In the talk, Kavanagh addressed three myths about native plants. First, though some assume native plants should be easier to grow than non-native plants, that’s not necessarily true. It’s important to match plants to the habitat you have in your yard, because some plants need specific conditions to thrive.

Secondly, some believe that plants always behave the same way in our gardens as they do in nature. Again, that’s true only if we replicate the conditions they naturally experience. If you take a native plant and give it fertilizer or more water than it’s

used to getting ‘in the wild,’ it may respond differently than it would out in nature.

The third myth is “if it’s wild looking, it must be a native plant.” This, Kavanagh says, is a common misconception. Many weeds that are ‘wild looking’ are not native plants, and native plants tended properly won’t necessarily be wild-looking.

In matching your conditions to plants, Kavanagh says the ‘plant selector’ feature at BirdGardens.ca can be a useful tool.

“It gives you a basic search that matches what you are looking for,” he notes.

Nature’s best hope, says Kavanagh, is the movement toward including native plants in the garden, because areas that lack native plants become like an ‘ecological desert.’

“Even a few small things can help,” he says. “Nature is so stressed and under so many pressures.”

Even if space constraints mean you have to plant in a container, prairie plants like Virginia Mountain Mint, prairie smoke, and stiff goldenrod will survive in a pot.

Though the pollinator plants talk was Norfolk Nature’s last speaker event until the fall, a number of field events, including moth-watching, identifying wild edible plants, and listening for whip-poor-wills, remain on the schedule in the coming months. For more details, see the Norfolk Nature website, https://norfolknature.org/.

Columbus to retire from municipal politics

When his daughter was just learning to talk, Michael Columbus remembers getting ready one evening to head out and the toddler asking: ‘Is daddy going to another meeting?’

That daughter now has her own career, working municipally in neighbouring Haldimand County. It shows just how long Columbus’ political career has spanned. But in a few short months, the Ward 3 Norfolk councillor won’t have to trudge off to any council meetings or read any lengthy agenda packages.

Towards the end of the May 12 council-in-committee, Columbus announced his intention to leave politics following this fall’s municipal elections. Columbus has been a Norfolk councillor for 26 years, and spent 14 years before that with the previous Delhi Township council.

Columbus told his council colleagues he’d been quietly contemplating his future in politics for a while, and had begun receiving questions from the public. Initially he thought he’d make a decision later, but in the interest of fairness to others who may choose to run, he decided to announce his decision now.

“It’s time to move on,” he said, before receiving a standing ovation from those around the horseshoe, a rare occurrence in any council meeting.

“I want to thank the residents of Ward 3, Delhi-Windham, for the privilege and the pleasure of serving as their Ward 3 councillor.”

In a followup interview, Columbus said 40 years is a long time to do anything, let alone be in politics. However, he also suggested a recent rise in political nastiness at the municipal level pushed him to consider retirement.

“It’s getting really bad,” he said, adding false and negative attacks online have gotten out of hand.

Still, Columbus said he’ll look back fondly on his time in politics and will miss the job. He said he always enjoyed the meetings and working on major issues for his ward and Norfolk as a whole.

And given the long career, there were many issues. He came from a family that paid attention to local politics and Columbus recalled following his parents’ lead and taking an interest early on.

Coun. Alan Duthie, who typically sits to Columbus’ left in meetings, was equally full of praise.

“I think you’ve done an absolutely admirable job and this community and your ward is all the better for it,” he said.

Coun. Linda Vandendriessche said Columbus has been a great mentor to newer councillors and that his departure will be felt.

“It’s a better place with you here than not,” she said. Others, like Coun. Chris Van Paassen, said they got to know Columbus outside the political sphere first. Van Paassen met Columbus through their connections in agriculture - Van Paassen’s a farmer and Columbus worked for the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairsbefore joining municipal politics.

“Not once have I ever questioned his knowledge, his history, the facts that he brings forward and the help he was giving us young fellas in both of those lines of work,” he said.

Over the years he remembers some of the big events, like the Delhi diaper fire, which spanned three days and required support from local business Vanden Bussche Irrigation to get under control.

He also remembered pushing to keep the local Delhi tobacco warehouse open, the controversy that came with the arrival of wind turbines, the recreational hub project that never materialized, and Forestry Farm Road gas wells, which still haven’t been fully resolved.

Throughout it all, Columbus said he tried to remain focused on leadership and community commitment. He recalled his motto that he used for campaign material: “Hands-on councillor who leads from the trenches, and always has his ears to the ground and eyes to the future.”

Following the surprise announcement, council colleagues took turns thanking Columbus for his service and contributions.

“Class act, what a great example you’ve set,” said Coun. Adam Veri, who chaired the May 12 meeting but has spent most the past few years sitting next to Columbus at council.

“Sitting next to you for the first three years has been helpful, lots of great insight, and I appreciate it.”

Columbus offered some advice for those eyeing a role on local council that could be summed up mostly with two words: integrity and communication.

“You have to have integrity right off the bat,” he said. “Go door-to-door as much as possible…(and) return calls and emails.”

Columbus will remain on as councillor until after the municipal elections set for Oct. 26.

Honda GDR Fox introduces its 2026 motocross roster

CHRIS ABBOTT Editor

Honda Canada GDR Fox Racing Team introduced its 2026 lineup to a packed room of motocross media on Tuesday, May 12.

Round 1 of the eight-stage Triple Crown Series kicks off June 7 at Wild Rose MX in Calgary, followed by races in Manitoba (June 14) and Quebec (June 28), before arriving at Gopher Dunes, near Courtland, on July 5.

After competing on the home track, the Honda Canada GDR Fox Racing Team will continue racing in New Brunswick, Ottawa, and back to Quebec before concluding at Walton, Ont.

There will be three divisions – 450 pro, 250 pro and WMX (women’s). Factory-backed and privateer teams compete under the same banner for team championships and individual point championships.

The GDR (Gopher Dunes Racing) team, sponsored by Honda Canada and Fox Racing, will have four riders competing this year – 28-year-old Dylan Wright, winner of five national titles, in the 450; Hannah Cole, racing in the WMX; Dylan Rempel, from Aylmer, a five-year 250 veteran on the national circuit; and Braxton Zeitner, a 15-yearold from Mission, BC, who will make his full national tour debut this summer.

Zeitner, a 10-time amateur champion, was heavily recruited by Canadian teams, ultimately signing a contract with GDR.

“It’s a huge jump from last year and it’s a big opportunity, for me to show what I can do and just prove myself to everyone,” said Zeitner.

To prepare for his first 250 season, graduating from super mini, Zeitner ramped up his off-season training.

“It was a sweet winter, it was definitely different from every other year. I learned a lot from everyone down there, from my teammates, everyone honestly. It was a grind… and I definitely got a lot better.

“It was a lot of fun,” he added. “You’ve got to make everyday fun.”

Zeitner said he is enjoying his time in Norfolk County.

“It’s super sweet because I have the whole team backing me up, and I have a track, basically, right in my front yard. It’s a lot of fun.”

Zeitner said his goal is to win this summer, while keeping it fun, keeping it light, getting used to the bike, and improving himself.

Cole, from the Halifax, Nova Scotia area, is known as a top Atlantic Canada racer.

“It’s definitely a big change for me,” said 20-year-old Cole, based at Gopher Dunes MX this summer. “It’s been great being here with the team, and the support of the team is unreal, so it gives me a lot of confidence in my riding to be here. It makes it fun having more people to ride with –it’s a good time.

“It’s honestly unreal to be here, me and my dad have done this for so long, and my mom, of course. It’s just really surreal… and I am super excited to be with the team

because I have so many more opportunities here. I can ask for help and it’s just the support and the knowledge around the team is what really stands out to me, because it gives me a lot of confidence in what I’m doing, too.”

The Women’s MX will be part of the national afternoon program this year and broadcasted on TV.

“It’s definitely growing and I think we’re heading in a good direction,” said Cole, who finished third in the series last year and expects to be back on the podium this summer.

Last year was a breakout year for 18-year-old Rempel, winning his first national race at Gopher Dunes while racing on a KTM team based in Quebec. This year, he’s wearing Honda GDR Fox gear after signing a new contract for the 2026 season.

“After last season, Derek (Schuster) and Ryan (Lockhart) called me just randomly out of nowhere, and said they wanted to work something out. I liked the deal and now I’m here,” smiled Rempel, second in the 250 series. “I’m excited. The bike’s really good and I’m having lots of fun.”

Riding with Wright has been something Rempel grew up with. “He’s always been here (at Gopher Dunes), so we always rode together, even when I was on 85s.”

Rempel said winning at Gopher Dunes was ‘really cool.’

“I grew up 20-25 minutes from here, so to win at this this track was pretty cool. Obviously it’s a tough track but we work hard all winter for this.

“I wasn’t even the fastest, I mean they passed me, but then I just got them back.”

“It’s always fun to have new teammates and new blood under the (Honda GDR Fox) tent, to hang out with and just get to know everybody,” said Wright.

“Massive changes this year on our program, obviously. (2025) was not a banner year… and I told Derek stuff’s going to have to change.”

Wright’s input was accepted, and they got to work in the fall of 2025 – making suspension/chassis and engine changes to his bike, and his riding strategy.

“I think it’s going to pay off. The winter goes smoother when you have a good fall, too. I think we’ve got an awesome package this year, and it makes me excited.

“When you come into your veteran years – I’m not getting old, but I’m getting ‘older’ in our sport – it gives you that extra motivation… and if something goes bad, it’s probably on me this year,” he smiled. “Because I kind of called a lot of the shots… I think it’s trending forward and I’m really happy with the crew we have.”

Wright, who splits his time between his home in Quebec and a trailer at Gopher Dunes, said it’s not added pressure to win, but there could be pressure if things ‘do not go well.’

“Assuming everything goes well, you get the personal gratification of like, ‘Hey, I made the right choice.’”

Waterford wins cheerleading competition

CHRIS ABBOTT

Editor

The gap from first to fourth was close, but the Waterford District High School cheerleaders finished on top at the May 6th Norfolk Invitational Cheerleading Competition in Waterford.

The four-school competition included full stunt cheerleading with tosses, pyramids, cradles, rolls and twists on full mat floors, in a gymnasium filled with enthusiastic spectators.

Second last year after winning the inaugural Norfolk championship, Waterford Wolves kicked off the event, performing the first of two cheers.

“I feel really good about both of ours,” said Waterford’s

Aurora Duesling, a fourth-year cheerleader. “We were all very confident, very together. The team hype-up was there.”

“Yeah, I think it went a lot better than we thought,” laughed teammate Taylor Brown, also in her fourth year. “We saw all the other teams and everyone did such a good job… we were really scared.”

After a short intermission, the teams returned for the second cheer (repeating the first cheer). Duesling, Brown and Herron said team energy remained ‘high’.

“Everyone was so supportive…” said Brown.

“And I think that really showed on the mat,” Duesling nodded.

“I think the amount of competitions that we’ve been to and all the feedback we got, we all learned something and

it all led to this moment,” said fourth-year teammate Grace Herron.

After the Norfolk County Fair competition, Waterford’s cheer team grew.

“We had a lot of people come in for tryouts after the fair,” said Duesling.

“We’ve changed a lot of things too,” said Brown. “Yeah, so it’s definitely growing,” said Duesling. “ And hopefully next year it will grow more.”

“After a win, we always get a lot of people wanting to come be a part of the team,” said Brown.

Delhi Raiders were second, Simcoe Composite Sabres third, and Valley Heights Bears fourth.

There’s always ‘room to grow and improve in cheer’

CHRIS ABBOTT Editor

Alison High, Valley Heights Secondary School principal and cheerleading coach, received special recognition May 6th at the Norfolk Invitational Cheerleading Championship in Waterford.

A long-time cheer coach, High will be retiring this year from her administration position at VHSS, but plans to continue coaching the Bears... at least for one more year.

“I’m retiring from work, not cheer,” High smiled. “I’ll coach for another year, for sure.

“What I love about the sport is that it is the epitome of team sport. You can’t just pull one person out and have things be the same. There’s no subs in cheerleading. So you have to develop the relationships between your athletes, the trust has to come – that part of it is so huge.”

And those elements take a long time to build.

“There are entry points for every different level of cheerleader. Not everyone on the floor can do a standing back tuck – and that’s okay. You can find a place for everybody, for everybody’s strength, on the team, and I love that.

“I love being able to watch them grow. Them come in Grade 9 and they’re new and they’re nervous, and to watch them go through the years and then when they graduate… they take more away from this than I think we even know. Just in terms of

friendships, the relationships, conflict resolution, all of it.

“So I think that’s what I love about it.”

The growth in the team from their first performances at Langton and Houghton fairs, to the Norfolk County Fair, then a new routine for the Norfolk Invitational, was truly impressive. The routine had pace, energy and sizzle.

“I was pretty proud of them,” High nodded. “The growth we saw… there’s no end to it. It’s pretty awesome. And I like that because nothing is ever really ‘finished.’

There is always room to grow, there is always room to improve, and I like that.”

The VHSS cheer team, which had about 20 members at the Norfolk Fair, grew to 29 for the remainder of the season, with 28 on the floor in Waterford.

“And nine of my girls played a soccer game at 2 o’clock this afternoon. So they had soccer from 2-3:30, came in, wiped the mud off, then cheered.

“That’s cheer and that’s what I love about it.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

teetervillelegionbranch526.ca

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

PLANT & BAKE SALE

8:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m

Delhi & District Horticultural Society is having its annual Plant & Bake Sale on Saturday May 23rd. Great selection of perennials and homebaked goodies.

Delhi Tobacco Museum & Heritage Centre MATINEE

4:00 p.m - 8:00 p.m

Featuring The Band Jasmine T. Food Available from 4 pm to 6 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Royal Canadian Legion - Waterford 223 Nichol St. NORFOLK PATHWAYS FOR PEOPLE –SPRING TRAIL CLEAN-UP

9:00 a.m – 11:00 a.m

Help clean up our trails while enjoying the outdoors at the Norfolk Pathways for People Spring Trail Clean-up on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Volunteers will meet at the Argyle St. parking lot along the Norfolk Sunrise Trail in Simcoe. Recommended supplies include gloves, a garbage picker, pail, and reflective vest if you have them. Garbage bags and a dumpster will be supplied by Norfolk County. For more information, visit norfolkpathways.ca.

Norfolk Sunrise Trail | Argyle St. Parking Lot | Simcoe, Ontario

SUNDAY, MAY 24

SIMCOE SPLASH PAD BOTTLE DRIVE

10:00 a.m – 2:00 p.m

The Simcoe Kin Club will be in the parking lot near the TD Bank on the Queensway collecting donations of empty alcohol bottles/cans and pop cans to help save the Simcoe Splash Pad. Businesses, retail outlets, restaurants, service clubs, and other facilities that sell alcohol and/or pop are also encouraged to save their

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

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27

THE NEXT CHAPTER – ‘LIVING ON’ WIDOWS

6:00 p.m

Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice warmly invites women who have experienced the death of a spouse or partner to an informal evening of connection, conversation, and support on Wednesday, May 27th. Meet other women navigating grief, share interests and experiences, and enjoy light refreshments in a welcoming environment. You may even make a new friend. There is no fee to participate; however, registration is required. To register, call 519-410-0881 or email info@ norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca.

2183 Highway 3 East | Jarvis, Ontario

FRIDAY, MAY 29

WINGS & KARAOKE

4:45 p.m – Wing Sales Begin 5:00 p.m – Food Service Starts Featuring Karaoke in the Club Room. Wings $13.00/lb • Fries $4.00 • Onion Rings $5.00 Cash Only. Eat in or Take Out (No Phone Orders)

Royal Canadian Legion - Waterford 223 Nichol St.

DIY LAUNDRY SOAP

6:30 p.m

Riversyde 83 – Friday Fun Nights invites you to come and learn how to make your own laundry soap on Friday, May 29. This free event is easy and fun, with advance registration required by May 27. To register, email churchoutserving@ gmail.com.

83 Sydenham Street in downtown Simcoe

SUNDAY, MAY 31

BRANT MEN OF SONG CONCERT

The Brant Men of Song are hosting the concert this year as part of their 65th Anniversary of the men's choir on Sunday, May 31st. There will be 6 male choirs at the Sanderson Centre

3RD ANNUAL COMMUNITY BBQ

11:30 a.m - 2:30 p.m

St. Peter's Lutheran Church is opening its doors, and its parking lot, for a free "We Love our Neighbourhood" BBQ on Sunday, May 31. You are warmly invited to begin the day with a worship service at 10 AM, followed by the BBQ from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM at 155 Colborne St. N. Join us for hot dogs, refreshments, ice cream, a bouncy castle, and games and activities for children. All are welcome. Email stpetersnorfolk@gmail.com if you have any questions.

St. Peter's Lutheran Church | 155 Colborne St. N.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

SHISH KEBOB SUPPER

Ticket Sales Start - 5:00 p.m Supper is served at 5:30 pm $ 14.00 a person (cash only). Dessert is included.

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

CHILDREN’S BEREAVEMENT DAY PROGRAM

9:00 a.m – 5:30 p.m

Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice is hosting a Children’s Bereavement Day Program on Friday, June 5th (PA Day) for children SK to Grade 8 who are grieving the loss of a loved one. This supportive day program helps children connect with others experiencing grief while building coping skills in a safe and caring environment. There is no cost to families, and snacks and lunch will be provided. Preregistration is required as space is limited. To preregister call 519-410-0881 or visit norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca.

Townsend Lion’s Community Centre | 58 Forest Park Dr., Townsend FISH & CHIPS

4:15 p.m

The Royal Canadian Legion is hosting a Fish & Chips dinner on Friday, June 5th at the Waterford Legion. Ticket sales begin in person at 4:15 pm. Guests can choose to dine in or take out. One piece of fish is $13.00 and two pieces are $18.00. Cash only. Guests ordering take-out are asked to bring their own bag.

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

SATURDAY, JUNE 6

MULTICULTURAL FOOD FESTIVAL

11:00 a.m – 3:00 p.m Greek, Korean, Mexican, African, Filipino, Hungarian, Polish, German, Ukrainian, Indian Adults 5$ children 10 and under free. Debit and Cash, purchase tickets, redeem for food. ALL DAY MUSIC Delhi Legion, Multicultural 50/50 draw, cash sales only. 2,500 top prize.

Delhi Museum

THURSDAY, JUNE 11

THE NEXT CHAPTER – ‘LIVING ON’ WIDOWERS

6:00 p.m

Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice warmly invites men who have experienced the death of a spouse or partner to an informal evening of connection, conversation, and support on Thursday, June 11th. Meet other men navigating grief, share interests and experiences, and enjoy light refreshments in a welcoming environment. You may even make a new friend. There is no fee to participate; however, registration is required. To register, call 519-410-0881 or email info@ norfolkhaldimandhospice.ca.

2183 Highway 3 East | Jarvis, Ontario

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

SUNDAY BRUNCH

9:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m

The Royal Canadian Legion is hosting a Sunday Brunch on Saturday, June 14th from 9:00 am until noon at 223 Nichol Street in Waterford. Admission is $15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children ages 6–12, and free for children

under 5 years old.

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

FRIDAY, JUNE 19

WATERFORD LEGION QUIZ NIGHT

7:00 p.m

The Waterford Legion invites you to an evening of fun and friendly competition on Friday, June 19. Bring your friends or join a group for a lively Quiz Night filled with trivia, laughter, and community spirit.

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

SUNDAY, JUNE 21

ATHER'S DAY 1/2 CHICKEN DINNER BBQ

Serving at 5:30 p.m

Tickets in advance from the Legion Bar. Cost: $20.00 per ticket.  There will be a Father's Day Draw and For Men Only Draws.

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

WINGS & KARAOKE

Wing sales start at 4:45 - Serving at 5:00 pm Eat in or take out (No Phone Orders) Karaoke to follow in the Club Room. Wings $13.00 /lb | Fries $4.00 | Onion Rings $ 5.00 (CASH ONLY)

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

THURSDAYS IN JUNE

CORNHOLE

7:00 p.m

The Royal Canadian Legion is hosting weekly cornhole nights on Thursdays in June (except the fourth Thursday) beginning at 7:00 pm at the Waterford Legion. Community members of all skill levels are welcome to join in the free fun.

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

EVERY MONDAY & THURSDAY

SIT & FIT

Starting at 12:00 pm (45 minutes in duration)

A FREE light exercise program. Organized & run by the Alzheimer Society. Come on up to the and join in the fun!

Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford

EVERY OTHER FRIDAY

INGERSOLL COUNTRY MUSIC JAMBOREE

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

Spring into the Ingersoll Country Music Jamboree meeting every other Friday 1-4 p.m. at Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St. S. Ingersoll. Join us, walk ins welcome. Qualifications - love 50-70's country music. Perform, listen, dance & enjoy! May 15 & 29, June 5 & 19.

EVERY FRIDAY EVENING

CATCH THE ACE

4:30 a.m- 7:30 p.m (Draw at 7:45 pm)

Win over $21,000.00 (LIC #RAF 14505443)! Tickets are available for $5 each, 3 for $10, or 6 for $20. Proceeds support the Norfolk Haldimand Hospice, Norfolk General Hospital Foundation, and Rotary Norfolk Youth Scholarships.

Simcoe Legion, West Street, Simcoe

THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH LYNN RIVER PROBUS CLUB

10:00 a.m - 12:00 p.m

Our retired and semi-retired members enjoy diverse interest groups, friendship and fellowship. We have interesting speakers at our monthly meetings as well as time to socialise.Current and prospective members are welcome to join us at the Army, Navy & Air Force Club, Simcoe, which is on the corner of Water St. and Culver St. Simcoe. Enter via Culver St. For more information, please visit our website at: lynnriverprobus239.com or email lynnriverprobus239@gmail.com.

SECOND SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH

COURTLAND COUNTRY OPEN MIC JAM Music starts at 1:00 p.m | Dinner at 5:00 p.m All welcome!

Courtland Community Centre | 272 Main St., Courtland, ON

LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH OPEN JAM

Starting at 5:00 p.m (Until Sold Out)

Everyone is welcome to bring an instrument or just come out and listen to the music. Free event For More Information call the Legion at 519-443-5588 or www. teetervillelegionbranch526.ca

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

It’s not only about the onions

OH,PLACESTHE WE'LL GO

By Paul Knowles

You could easily get the impression that, in Tropea, it’s all about the onions. Well, that’s not the whole story – but the onions do play a big role in this lovely Italian sea-side town.

We were in the southern tip of Italy – Calabria – on a Senior Discovery Tours visit. It was a great trip – so good, that we have arranged to repeat the tour next year, with a group of friends! So obviously, there were more attractions than just onions.

However, the Tropea onions are actually world-famous among foodies. We first learned about them in the Calabria episode of Stanley Tucci’s television series about food in Italy. He visits Tropea, which is on the western, Terranean Sea coast of Calabria (his ancestral home), and among other taste delights, he eats a sweet, red, Tropea onion like an apple, and claims to enjoy it.

If that makes Tropea sound like a slightly quirky destination, so be it. But I would not have missed it for the world.

Let’s leave the onion fields for a

moment, and take in some other, also quirky, features of the town.

The cathedral, for example.

I know: I can hear some of you jaded travellers moaning, “Not another cathedral!” And we all know the sentiment.

But the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Romania has at least one feature that I will admit, I have never encountered elsewhere. Mounted inside the main doors, one on each side, are unexploded World War II bombs. The fact that they landed near the cathedral, but did no damage, is credited as a miracle to the Madonna, and celebrated by the prominent presence of these devices (now disarmed, thank goodness) inside the cathedral.

The cathedral is genuinely ancient; it was built in 1160, and is dedicated to the Virgin of Romania, patron saint of Tropea. The church design shows Arab and Byzantine influence, and pride of place, behind the altar, is given to

a 13th century Byzantine icon of the Virgin of Romania. Not only is the Madonna credited with the miracle of the unexploded bombs, she also is deemed responsible for saving Tropea from earthquakes, plagues, and other natural disasters.

The shops of Tropea have an ambience all their own. Several feature very large displays of miniature figures and buildings, showing life from ancient times, and illustrating crafts that have been lost to history. These displays fill the entire wall space in some shops, and there is no charge to see them – although donation boxes may be in evidence.

Almost every store has a display, for sale this time, of bugeyed, large-nosed ceramic faces guaranteed to ward off the evil eye. I don’t know if they work; I do know they are guaranteed to make you smile. They’re hilarious.

The town itself has its own

ditional stop at Pizzo, another seaside town half an hour north of Tropea. There, while there is a castle with an intriguing history, and more beautiful views, the highlights were two culinary experiences.

First, we went to a pizzeria for a plethora of genuine Calabrian pizza. The servers just kept bringing pizzas to the table, one kind after another – a delicious, simple Margherita pizza, then ham and mushroom, followed by a veggie version with zuchinni, eggplant and more. But the two signature choices were an ‘nduja pizza (‘nduja is a spicy, spreadable pork and chili pepper sausage unique to Calabria), and a tuna and Tropea onion pizza.

unique beauty – narrow alleyways hung with flower baskets, ancient archways and doors, shops with their displays spilling out onto the street. In one such store, the shopkeeper spoke not a word of English – and I have no Italian past “vino” – but he still managed to sell me a jar of bruschetta spread, and another of a “mousse” made from – you guessed it – Tropea onions.

Better yet, as an inveterate collector of wildly coloured and patterned socks, I was thrilled to find a reddish-purple pair illustrated with – yep – onions. I wear them with pride.

Tropea is right on the sea, and the town offers some spectacular views of the Mediterranean (The Terranean Sea is just one section of that larger ocean). The view includes the sight of the active volcanic island, Stomboli, which rises as a nearly perfect triangle out of the sea.

Our day trip included an ad-

They were amazing. We were stuffed to the gills. And then they took us for tartuffo – two kinds of gelato moulded around a chocolate centre, covered with cocoa and nuts. Turned out, we weren’t all that full, after all.

Tropea and Pizzo, like Calabria in general, is a very unspoiled part of Italy. Local customs, legends, and culinary traditions have survived here, largely intact. But these are seafront communities, with lovely beaches, and our guide admitted that “In summer, Tropea is very, very crowded.” But in the shoulder seasons – the long Spring and Fall of southern Italy – the tourists are largely absent, but the wonderful features remain, and are readily available to delight visitors like us.

And as I mentioned, we are going back.

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.

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WITH DOUBLE LETTERS

Weekly Crossword

THE PRODUCE PUZZLE - SNACK TIME

Clues

6. Sweet fluffy campfire treat

7. Long salty twisted snack

9. Puffy cheesy corn snack

11. Cream-filled snack cake

15. Crunchy chips often paired with salsa

16. Dried grapes snack

19. Flavoured corn chip for dipping

20. Tiny colourful chocolate candies

22. Frozen fruity treat on a stick

24. Chewy fruit-flavoured candy

Fizzy sweet canned beverage

Crunchy salted potato snack

Sweet pancake syrup flavour

Soft baked chocolate chip treat

25. Buttered movie theatre snack

Answers found on page 24

Waterford Lions sponsor June 13th Touch-A-Truck

BRENDA MOSER

Advocate Contributor

The Waterford Lions are inviting kids of all ages to join them at their upcoming Touch-A-Truck event on Saturday, June 13. This year it will be held downtown at the Waterford parkette on Alice Street – right beside the Golden Pond. The 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. handson family event is a one-of-

a-kind experience and one that the kids – young and old – are sure to remember. Not only will there be fire trucks but some ‘big rigs’ used to service their vehicles, assorted trucks, along with farm machinery… big farm machinery. Best of all it is a free event and nowadays there aren’t too many places where you can take the whole family, have a great time and see

some really ‘neat’ vehicles. Bring the kids along and let them ‘run wild and satisfy their curiosity’.

While you’re there you can enjoy a hot dog, cool off with a cold drink and have a freezie. Donations for the refreshments will be accepted, with proceeds going to a local charitable cause. A perfect way to spend an afternoon of family fun while letting your children see closeup the shiny trucks and (with permission) to even touch the vehicles. Our Waterford Lions are a great group of dedicated volunteers who work to provide Waterford with special events while promoting their club and the great things that they offer people – young and old – free events that serve to teach as well as entertain. Be sure to stop by and join them!

For Sale: Shade Trees; Maples, Oaks, Birch, Beech, Honey Locusts, Elms, Magnolia, Hydrangea Tree, Tulip Tree, Crab apples, Ivory Silk Lilac, Chanticleer Pear, Golden Weeping Willows and more. Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarine, Blueberry, Haskap etc.

Lots of healthy strong Spruce, Cedars and White Pine for your privacy hedges and windbreaks. Hundred of flowering shrubs.

Reg Hours 7am- 6pm Mon-Sat at Martins Nursery c/o Emanuel Martin. 42661 Orangehill Rd., Wroxeter, ON

JUNE 4 & JUNE 18

JULY 2 & JULY 16 & JULY 20

I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi or any pop company. Brewery items - Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, wristwatches, pocket watches, old fruit jars - Beaver Star, Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and signsRed Indian, Supertest etc. Any small furniture. If you are moving or cleaning out stuff please contact me – 519-570-6920.

A SAFER ONTARIO MEANS