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Seven candidates running for Norfolk mayor J.P. ANTONACCI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Norfolk County residents will be spoiled for choice in this fall’s municipal election. A last-minute entrant brought the total number of candidates running for mayor in the rural county to seven. Ken Gilpin, a Simcoe resident who ran for the People’s Party of Canada in the 2021 federal election in Haldimand-Norfolk, filed his nomination papers to run for mayor on the last day for potential candidates to register. Gilpin joins a crowded field featuring several mayoral candidates with political experience. Doug Brunton and Adam Veri currently sit on council, representing Simcoe and Port Dover, respectively. Brunton is a two-term councillor who was previously head of public works for the Town of Simcoe. Veri, a community organizer, is in his first term on council. Norfolk native David Finch, a spiritual-care provider and registered psychotherapist, was a threeterm councillor in Grimsby, first elected in 2000. Noel Haydt represented the Port Rowan area on council from 2014 to 2018. The business owner who fell short in a bid to return to council in a 2021 byelection - has been publicly endorsed in his mayoral bid by former Norfolk mayor Kristal Chopp. Former three-term Haldimand County mayor Ken CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
Huron Farmworkers Ministry hosted its annual Farmworkers AppreciationDay in Simcoe on Thursday, August 27. Games included a ‘catch the prize’ activity.
Huron Farmworkers Ministry says ‘thanks’ CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Huron Farmworkers Ministry hosted its annual Farmworkers Appreciation Day in Simcoe on Thursday, August 27.
“It’s an appreciation day to say thank you to our international workers who are here from their own countries, away from their families, away from home,” said Nancy Barwick, Huron Farmworkers Ministry’s secretary of the board.
“So this provides them with a little bit of extracurricular, a good meal, some fellowship. They can get together, chat, and have a fun time.” Also on site at Trinity Anglican Church, TNO (The Neighbourhood Organization), a supporter of HuCONTINUED ON PAGE 2
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate
Appreciation Day for international agricultural workers CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
ron Farmworkers Ministry with an office in Simcoe, is vital, she added. “The workers’ mental health, and physical health, is also a big part of our ministry,” said Barwick, nodding toward a booth set up by the Agriculture Wellness Ontario (Canadian Mental Health Association), which provides assistance to international agricultural workers. “We’re here to show people who we are, and we’re really proud to help them. Really proud.” International Agricultural Workers enjoyed a free meal – similar to meals available Thursdays and Fridays from May until October – music, games, draws prizes and camaraderie. A number of donated bicycles were on site, available to anyone in need of extra mobility.
“They can take one,” Barwick nodded. “To them it represents freedom. It’s probably one of the most important donations, the bicycles.” Huron Farmworkers Ministry hosts free weekly meals for international agricultural workers Thursdays/Fridays in Simcoe, 4-8 p.m., from the start of the season in May/June until late fall. It starts slow, but during peak harvest season they can get up to 400 per day. “We try to do healthy menus,” said Diana Granobles (diana@cmhabhn.ca), International Agricultural Wellness Outreach Support Worker and coordinator of the Thursday/Friday meals. “Rice, chicken, beans, pork or beef… always we have salad as one of the sides. “We also try Mexican food – most of them are from Mexico. Also, many here are from Colombia, so we make a lot of soups.”
Norfolk will have new mayor after 2026 election CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Hewitt is running to lead Norfolk. The former Hagersville resident now lives in Turkey Point. Hewitt finished third in his quest to continue as Haldimand’s mayor in 2022, a few months after he ran provincially as the Progressive Conservative candidate in Haldimand-Norfolk and lost to independent candidate Bobbi Ann Brady. In the 2025 federal election, Hewitt ran as a Conservative in the Hamilton Mountain riding but lost to Liberal incumbent Lisa Hepfner. He recently resigned as a member of the Ontario Land Tribunal to run for mayor in Norfolk. Retired RCMP staff sergeant Keith Milner has not held elected office but touts his experience in law enforcement and as a business owner in Port Dover as qualifying him to lead Norfolk as mayor. Realtor Rhyus Reeves registered to run for mayor but withdrew his candidacy. “I think it’s good that we have a lot of interest,” Norfolk-based political scientist Shanaya Vanhooren said of the seven-person mayoral field. “It is crowded, but I think it remains to be seen who the more fringe candidates are and who the more serious candidates are,” Vanhooren said. “We know that anyone who’s an incumbent or has name recognition in the community is likely to benefit.” The mayor’s chair became vacant when Mayor Amy Martin announced in May she would not seek re-election after she and her husband welcomed their first child. Norfolk will therefore have another new mayor following single terms in office for Martin, Chopp and Charlie Luke.
FEWER WOMEN ON THE BALLOT That all seven mayoral candidates are men reflects an overall dip in diversity on the ballot in Norfolk. During the 2022 municipal election, one-third of the total candidates - 10 of 30 - were women. This year, just eight of 33 total candidates - roughly a quarter - are women. Vanhooren, who studies municipal government at the Canadian Municipal Barometer, said a survey of municipal politicians in Ontario conducted by her organization found harassment - especially online - to be “the biggest barrier” to people thinking of entering politics, particularly women and visible minorities. In Norfolk, seeing the sexist vitriol directed at Chopp and Martin during their terms in office “can make you think twice about running for council,” Vanhooren said. There are guaranteed to be at least three new faces around Norfolk’s council table after the election on Oct. 26, with Veri and Brunton running for mayor and Delhi-area councillor Mike Columbus retiring after a 40-year career in municipal politics. After several months passed with only one candidate registered in four of Norfolk’s seven wards, a flurry of late entrants ensured there will be competition in all wards. Norfolk residents can hear from the seven men who would be mayor during debates at the Delhi German Home on Sept. 30 at 7 p.m. and the Port Dover Community Centre on Oct. 13 at 7 p.m. J.P. Antonacci is a Local Journalism Initiative Reporter based at the Hamilton Spectator. The initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
They also host special events for IAW holidays. “Many of them are here for eight months, doing the same, so this gives them something different.” Huron Farmworkers Ministry • Spiritual and emotional support through visits, prayer and caring conversations in English and Spanish. • Meals and social gatherings at Trinity Anglican Church in Simcoe, Thursdays and Fridays 4-8 p.m. • Emergency support available by phone (548-881-5614).
tional support. TNO – The Neighbourhood Organization • Helping migrant workers to access accurate information and available services – supports include health, legal and social services. • Increasing education and empowering migrant workers. • Services available in several languages, including English, Spanish and Patois.
Canadian Mental Health Association Brant Haldimand Norfolk • Workshops about wellness and adjusting to live in Canada. • Tools to deal with stress, sadness and emotional changes • Private emotional support available online. • Referrals to 24-7 medical and emo-
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
International Agricultural Workers enjoyed a free meal, music, games, draws prizes and camaraderie on August 27, hosted by Huron Farmworkers Ministry at Trinity Anglican Church in Simcoe.
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September 10, 2026
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Grow and Gather Second Bloom moves to new venue CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Grow and Gather – Second Bloom is coming to Simcoe, Sept. 19, at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds. It’s a one-day ‘giveaway’ event, organized through a team partnership that includes Church Out Serving, Second Harvest and local farms. It aims to improve food security in Norfolk County and reduce food waste. Bring your own bag and load up with fresh vegetables and fruit donated by many Norfolk County farms and farmers from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the building next to the curling club. Most food will be indoors, and some tents/skids outdoors. “It’s the second year this has been done, and it’s going to become an annual event,” said Virginia Lucas, a director at Church Out Serving, and part of the Grow and Gather organizing team. “It’s a collaboration hosted by local farmers, in partnership with Church Out Serving and Second Harvest, to gather produce from local farmers and give it away to the general public – people living with food insecurity, but also others… anybody actually. Anybody can come, it’s open to everyone. “It’s a free event. And it will probably
be bigger than last year… it’s a growing event, literally,” she added with a laugh. Last year’s inaugural event in Delhi gave away bins of apples, pumpkins, squash, onions, cabbage, sweet and russet potatoes, zucchini, eggplant, sweet corn, and multiple varieties of tomatoes and peppers… and more. All donations go through Church Out Serving (designated to Grow and Gather) - they can give charitable receipts. Church Out Serving has a very large volunteer pool, but they are also accepting volunteers who register through their Grow and Gather website (growandgather.ca). “We’ve had some experience promoting through other not-for-profit and service agencies that help people with food insecurities, so we are sort of tapping into different groups of people that could benefit. We’re really trying to promote it through a lot of the agencies and organizations that help with food security… and also offering them an opportunity to set up a booth on the day of, so that we can connect people to service providers. “I think the beauty of this event is that it’s ‘community caring for community.’ It’s local area farmers giving back to their own community, and helping to support where there’s an area of need, and just to be generous. That’s what Norfolk is about actually, it’s beautiful.” Grow and Gather is providing free transportation to the event through Ride Norfolk. There will be three routes in Simcoe, and one loop to Delhi. See the website for route times and locations. “So there is, hopefully, more opportunity to help people get to the event if they don’t have a vehicle.”
(FILE PHOTOS)
Grow and Gather – Second Bloom is coming to Simcoe, Sept. 19, at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds, from 9-3. It’s a one-day ‘giveaway’ event with produce donated by local farmers. Bring your own bag.
Bobbi Ann Brady MPP, HALDIMAND-NORFOLK 519-428-0446 | 905-765-8413 babrady-co@ola.org
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September 10, 2026
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Simcoe Advocate
EDITORIAL
What’s behind ballots in Haldimand-Norfolk? Haldimand-Norfolk
MPP
Bobbi Ann Brady As I travel across Haldimand-Norfolk, the conversation inevitably turns to the October 26th municipal election. People ask me what I have seen, what I think, and sometimes, who I believe should lead our communities for the next four years. I will always give people my honest opinion even if it’s uncomfortable. After all, I have spent the past four years listening to constituents, working with municipal councils and watching how decisions are made that directly affect the people I represent. But there is a great deal of misinformation circulating online about my involvement in this election. Ironically, some have even suggested that because I am your Member of Provincial Parliament, I should somehow surrender my rights as a citizen to have an opinion, participate in my community, or speak freely about the issues that matter to me. I find that notion both troubling and revealing. Being an MPP does not make me less of a citizen. It does, however, give me a front-row seat to the consequences of municipal decisions and I believe you deserve an honest conversation about what I have witnessed. Off the top, there have been rumours circulating that I am somehow part of a network organizing a slate of candidates across Haldimand and Norfolk. Quite frankly, I simply do not have the time, nor the interest, to be doing such a thing. My focus is on my work at Queen’s Park and on Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
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representing those who elected me. When it comes to this municipal election, I am particularly invested in my own ward, where I have legitimate concerns about the quality of representation and conduct of the sitting councillor. Those concerns are based on what I have personally witnessed and experienced over the past four years, and I am quite prepared to speak honestly about them. That is not the same thing as running a slate or orchestrating an election campaign. I believe voters are perfectly capable of doing research, which I suggest you do, and making decisions based on facts, performance, and conduct. I have met with the majority of candidates running in both counties and, regardless of whether I believe someone is a strong contender, I have been gracious and generous with my time and advice. The fact that candidates seek me out, respect my experience and value my opinion is heartening. To me, it demonstrates that they want to have a constructive working relationship with their MPP and want what is best for their community. Of course, there are candidates who have not requested a meeting with me, including some who have been openly critical of me – not my policies or my record, but me personally – both online and around council chambers. That is their choice, just as it is my choice to be open and honest about what I have witnessed and experienced. I have also learned that a coordinator of a few campaigns in both Haldimand and one in Norfolk, who hails from Dunnville, has been joining community organizations in Norfolk. That is not normal, and it raises legitimate questions about the connections and coordination taking place across our entire riding. I would suggest to voters that you do your own research all the while keeping your eyes wide open with respect to candidates but also to networks that truly do exist and the motives behind them. As we move closer to October 26th, I am certain I will have conversations with many of you. For now, ask questions, follow connections and decide for yourself what you make of it.
GREEN PLATES, GRAVEL ROADS, RURAL WAYS When you live in rural Ontario there are things you understand a little differently. You understand a trail isn’t simply a line on a map, but rather a pastime for families, an opportunity for tourism and therefore an economic driver. Beautiful Haldimand-Norfolk has a tremendous network of trails and rural roads enjoyed by ATV and off-road enthusiasts. In Haldimand alone, the Haldimand Area ATV Club maintains more than 50 kilometers of mixed trails. Mother Nature can be tough on trails, so it is the work of volunteers who put in countless hours to maintain the system. And of course, without the landowners providing access it would all be a moot point.
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Cooperation is largely what keeps a trail system healthy and that’s why I believe we need to tread carefully when we talk about licensing, regulation or access. Regulation should make our communities safer but should not unnecessarily make it harder for responsible people to enjoy our rural way of life. Both can exist. Almost two years ago, I wrote about the Ontario Federation of All Terrain Vehicle Clubs (OFATV) and their efforts to implement a OneTrail permitting system. The goal was to create a unified trail network for ATV riders in Ontario that would promote rider safety, improve trail maintenance and strengthen local economies through tourism. Over the past two years not much has changed, but those goals remain just as important. Conversation is happening and through recent constituent meetings, including discussions with the Ontario Federation of Trail Riders (OFTR), I’ve heard growing concerns about how Ontario’s regulatory framework for offroad vehicles is working - or isn’t working - under the Highway Traffic Act. While provincial rules have evolved, some local bylaws have not kept pace, creating confusion and unintended barriers for riders trying to follow the rules. Ontario’s shift from an optin to an optout model for greenplated offroad vehicles on municipal roads has only added to that confusion. Riders may be compliant in one municipality and unknowingly in violation in the next. This patchwork of rules also makes it more difficult for municipalities to draft clear bylaws and places an added burden on enforcement agencies. Most importantly, inconsistent rules can have the unintended consequence of undermining safety. That is why I have brought forward a motion at Queen’s Park calling on the Government of Ontario to amend the Municipal Act, 2001, in consultation with the Ministry of Transportation. The goal is to reduce the patchwork of municipal bylaws governing offroad vehicles by establishing a consistent provincial framework for the operation of ATVs, ROVs, UTVs, and offroad motorcycles on municipal roads. This doesn’t mean taking control away from municipalities. Local governments would still have the ability to set reasonable exclusions for safety, seasonal conditions or environmental protection. What it does mean is, wherever these vehicles are permitted, the basic rules would be consistent, covering things like speed limits, licensing, insurance, helmet use and lane positioning. Clear rules make things safer. They make compliance easier. And they help communities benefit from outdoor recreation without unnecessary confusion or conflict. As more people head outside in the summer, getting this right matters. Responsible riders deserve rules they can understand, municipalities deserve clarity, and everyone deserves a system that puts safety first. I would love to hear more opinions and ideas from the ATV and off-road enthusiasts out there. Feel free to contact me at 519-428-0446 or babrady-co@ola.org.
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Simcoe Advocate
September 10, 2026
Langton Fair’s family fun returns Sept. 16 CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
Big traditions continue this year at the 136th Langton Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 16. The Langton Fair has been a mid-September event for generations, but this year it’s ‘early’ due to the late Labour Day and elementary students returning to school Sept. 8. “The schools don’t have a lot of time to prepare this year,” said Carol Overbaugh, president of the North Walsingham Agricultural Society. “It’s just one of those years.” The traditional parade kicks off the fair at 11 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies at the Langton Lions Community Sports Complex, near the pavilion, which includes bicycle rodeo award presentations. “The fire trucks are going to lead us in the parade again,” said Overbaugh. “We’re hoping for good weather and good crowds.” There will be a baby show at 12:30 p.m. inside the arena, an outdoor nail-driving competition – with children and adult divisions - starting at 12:45 p.m. and a tobacco hand tying at 1:15 p.m., both near the stage. The junior talent contest is 1:30 p.m. inside the arena - another great tradition going back many decades. “We’re going to carry on with the tobacco tying as long as we can,” said Overbaugh, hoping to see some new teams join
Carol Overbaugh, opening the 2025 Langton Fair, has been president of the North Walsingham Agricultural Society for more than 20 years.
the fun this year. Kids will enjoy inflatable games, and there will be food trucks to experience fair food. The Langton CWL will host a lunch in the community centre, a great opportunity to buy lunch and catch up with old friends. In the arena, Eva sells homemade pies, chili, and sandwiches at the Langton Fair table. Norfolk County Library sets up games for kids in the baseball outfield or soccer fields. The car show is always popular. Plaques are awarded for best tractor and car in the parade. Parade participants, as well as the public, can vote for their favourites. A special ‘Young Farmer’ addition will be featured during this year’s opening ceremonies. “Daryl Granger, who did the documentary Young Farmer, his nephew (Roman Boyd) goes to Sacred Heart School. I thought what better chance to promote agriculture, plus Roman being the star of this documentary – both his brother and sister had a big part in it as well. So I asked Daryl if he would officially open the fair. “The whole school (Sacred Heart) went to see the movie, except the Kindergarten, I think back in June.” As young as he is, Roman has a long history participating at the Langton Fair. “Oh my, yes,” Overbaugh laughed. “Ever since the children were born. Since they were little they brought in wagons of fruit and vegetables from the farm – they’d make four or five trips to the truck with their wagon to get all the stuff! The Boyds are very, very supportive of the fair and we are always very appreciative of that. It’s great they did that. “All three of them came to the daycare ((Norfolk Little People’s Daycare) when they were little, and they entered things in the fair. Even when they were little, they’d be dragging that wagon with lots of fruits and vegetables and stuff.” Fruits, vegetables and related entries were up again last year, said Overbaugh. “They were very good last year, so we were very pleased with that. The tables were pretty much full, children’s and adult sections. They can enter flowers, baking,
Nail driving is a popular event at the Langton Fair for both children and adults.
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(FILE PHOTO)
Tobacco hand tying continues every year at the Langton Fair. Organizers are hoping to see some new teams join the regular returnees.
preserves – all that stuff – although the preserves are mainly done by adults. “We’re hoping it’ll be the same this year,” said Overbaugh, who fondly remembers her mother, who while looking after six kids and feeding a crew of 40 during tobacco harvests, entered everything she could in the fair. “She would say every year, ‘Oh it’s just too much,’ but we would hear the clanging pans and she would bake for every single category in the fair book – tarts, pies, cakes, everything. And she canned for every single entry. You name it, she canned it, all summer. She’d tag them and take them to the old community centre, and she’d just make the deadline before the judges started judging. “One year she would win most points, then the next year Mrs. Barker from Courtland would win most points. They kind of went back and forth. She enjoyed the com-
petitiveness and she loved to bake and she loved to can, so she would just ‘go for it.’ I don’t know how she did it, looking after all of us and the harvest gang, but she did it.”
The fruit and vegetable tables were almost full last year, and Langton Fair organizers are hoping for the same on Sept. 16.
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September 10, 2026
Norfolk County Ribfest
Simcoe Advocate
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise members Jim Simpson, Kate Stratford and Paul Macko were selling raffle tickets at the Norfolk County Ribfest on August 30. This year Rotary Sunrise raised $2,900 at the ribfest, including pre-sales.
Jody Dawdry from Crazy Canuck Smokers, based in Brantford, works on an order of ribs Sunday, August 30 at the 2nd Norfolk County Ribfest at the Norfolk County Fairgrounds in Simcoe. Steady rain Sunday provided a challenge for this year’s ribfest, but there was a great crowd Saturday night.
Cole McCarty of Jack the Ribber was just as enthusiastic on a rainy Sunday afternoon as he was during great weather Friday and Saturday at the 2nd Norfolk County Ribfest.
Connor and Camryn McDougall at the Norfolk Ribfest in Simcoe, August 30. Three rib vendors were on site.
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Simcoe Advocate
September 10, 2026
Simcoe Lions chicken BBQ returns ‘with a bang’ CHRIS ABBOTT Editor
With an eye on the sky, Simcoe Lions Club hosted a Chicken BBQ fundraiser on Saturday, August 22 in downtown Simcoe. More than 500 chicken dinners were sold, prepared on their barbecue in the parking lot of Riversyde 83, for both ‘drive through’ patrons and the Argyle Street festival goers from 4-7 p.m. It was held in partnership with the Simcoe BIA, who helped provide the Argyle Street venue, the band (Sharp Dog), and the inflatable company. “The Simcoe BIA have been wonderful co-coordinators,” said Lion Sarah McLaughlin, chair of the Chicken BBQ com-
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mittee. It might be considered the first annual – with a bit of a festival flair and a new coordinator - but it was actually the return of the Simcoe Lions barbecue after a lengthy hiatus. Art With Heart Studio provided free face painting, Andy the Balloon Guy was on site, and they had inflatables. “I wanted a kids friendly event,” said McLaughlin. “This is our first chicken BBQ in many years.” All the funds raised stay in the community. “We’ve got a lot going on,” McLaughlin nodded. “We’ve got Wellington Park (pavilion) coming up – we have promised a phased project there. And beyond that, we donate to a ton of local initiatives. We support minor sports, young theatre and professional theatre as well. There are also outlets like Haldimand Norfolk REACH, who operate the Child Nutrition Network (breakfast and snack programs).” Despite the rain, she said the community was very supportive. “We had a little bit of a downpour, just before, about 10 minutes, then just a little bit of a downpour during… then it was clear.”
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(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTOS)
Simcoe Lions Club’s Chicken BBQ fundraiser on August 22 sold tickets for more than 500 chicken dinners.
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate
Ag Robotics Demo Day showcases technology AMANDA NELSON Grant Haven Media
(BRENDA MOSER PHOTOS)
These are some of the entries displayed at the Waterford & District Horticultural Society’s annual Flower & Vegetable Show held at Waterford United Church. Flowers can brighten anyone's day... or stormy night. A big thank you goes to Dianne Elliott for judging the entries. Congratulations to all winners. Be sure to check out the Society’s community beds at Bloomsburg and the Waterford Ponds. The work of the Society’s volunteers to maintain these beds is greatly appreciated. They are also thankful for the help and support they have received from Norfolk County. Take time to stop and smell the flowers!
The 2026 Ag Robotics Demo Day was held July 22 at the Ontario Crops Research Centre, a University of Guelph research station, near Simcoe. The field demonstration event brought together farmers, researchers, agri-businesses, students and government staff from across Southwestern Ontario. It was organized by the AgRobotics Working Group in partnership with the University of Guelph and Innovation Farms Ontario. Small and large-scale companies from across Ontario demonstrated new and emerging robots, autonomous tractors, drones, precision-weeding tools and other agri-technology equipment in working crop fields rather than in a trade-show setting. Norfolk Drone Services, a company that provides aerial spraying, spreading and mapping services for agricultural, landscaping and industrial applications, was among the exhibitors. Owner Justin Schieck gave attendees a demonstration of the company’s spray technology and explained how drones can help farmers save time and reduce operating costs. He said drones can also be used when crop canopies become too high for conventional equipment or when soil conditions are too wet for field traffic. “Once a canopy gets high, you can’t really spray beans or corn because it’s too tall,” he said. “In the fall, I really see drones tackling the heavy cano-
pies where you’re not getting that 25 per cent loss from driving over your beans.” Finite Robotics owner Matt Stevens presented the company’s robotic fruit-thinning technology, which is designed to help fruit growers automate labour-intensive orchard tasks such as fruit counting, crop-load measurement, tree-health monitoring and yield estimation. “Each arm has a camera with two eyes on it,” he said. “It’s looking at the tree. It’s figuring out exactly how many fruit there are. It’s sizing every single fruit. It’s doing a cluster analysis and then it’s determining which ones it needs to remove. It does that in about 100 milliseconds, so 10 times a second, and then it reaches out and it cuts off the fruit.” Stevens said orchard growers are facing labour shortages and rising labour costs, and that Finite Robotics is developing robotic and AI-based systems to reduce the amount of manual scouting and monitoring required in orchards. Another highlight of the event was Ecorobotix, which demonstrated an AI-guided spraying system designed to reduce the use of plant-protection products and fertilizers. Company representatives said the technology can reduce input use, labour requirements and spray drift. They discussed examples in which growers significantly reduced water use during spraying operations and emphasized the importance of low-
(AMANDA NELSON PHOTOS)
The NAIO Oz Robot works in a demonstration field, showcasing its ability to sow, mark rows, cultivate and weed in market gardens and specialty crops. The demonstration was part of Ag Robotics Demo Day, held July 22 at the Ontario Crops Research Centre.
The Ecorobotix ARA demonstrates its AI-powered precision spraying technology, which can reduce the use of plant protection products and fertilizers by up to 95 per cent while saving farmers time and money.
ering production costs for Ontario farmers. The event was intended to give producers an opportunity to see emerging agricultural technologies operating in real field conditions and to speak directly with developers and researchers.
Historic Dominion National Convention
A dedicated delegation of Royal Canadian Legion members from Norfolk County recently made the journey to Winnipeg for a truly historic gathering: the 50th Dominion Convention, held in the very city where the organization was born, coinciding with its monumental 100th anniversary. Representing Legion Branches in Delhi, Port Dover, Simcoe, and Waterford, the Norfolk members joined over 1,000 delegates from across the country for a week of collaboration, celebration, and important national policymaking. While it was the first Dominion Convention for many in the Norfolk contingent, all brought extensive experience in grassroots Legion work to the table. The biennial convention served as a powerful reminder of the organization’s enduring impact. Presentations highlighted major milestones achieved during the centenary year, including an influx of more than 100,000 new members nationwide. Discussions also spotlighted the hundreds of thousands of dollars raised in direct support of Canadian veterans through impactful initiatives like Operation Leave the Streets Behind and Operation Service Dog. Beyond fundraising, the event emphasized youth engagement, community support, and a renewed dedication to the promotion of Remembrance. Attendees also
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
Norfolk’s delegation representing Delhi, Port Dover, Simcoe and Waterford Legions at the 50th Dominion Convention - Bonnie Kirk, Branch 123; Stephanie Allen, Branch 125; Walter Breen, Branch 158; James Christison, Branch 79; Jacquie Barnett, Branch 123; Gord Barnett, Branch 123; Sharon Anderson, Branch 123; and Katie Graham, Branch 79. (Absent for the photo: Trudy Ingraham, Branch 125; Neil and Cindy MacIsaac, Branch 125; and Ian Simpson Branch 123).
paid tribute to the over 300,000 volunteers who power the Legion from coast to coast to coast.
The historic week featured several high-profile guests. Among them was the Honourable Philip Astor, grandson of Field
Marshal Earl Haig - the man who helped establish the Royal British Legion in 1921 and traveled to Canada in 1925 to lay the groundwork for what would become the Canadian Legion. Delegates were also treated to the presence of living history: 105-year-old Second World War veteran Len Van Roon, who landed on Juno Beach during the first wave of D-Day, and 99-year-old Second World War veteran Una Golding, who remains active with the Peterborough Legion and its executive. A major highlight for the Norfolk representatives was witnessing the national launch and unveiling of the Royal Canadian Mint’s new commemorative centenary toonie. The coin features a poignant design of a Legion member offering a poppy to a child, alongside the Latin inscription “We Will Remember Them.” The coin's artist, Ukrainian born Canadian Vladyslava Pashchenko, was on hand for the debut and addressed the crowd on how important the Legion’s youth programs had been to her. For the Norfolk delegation, the trip home marked not only the end of a milestone convention, but a reinvigorated commitment to serving veterans and keeping the flame of remembrance alive in their local communities.
Birdtown jamboree
(FILE PHOTO)
Music lovers will want to be at Homegrown Hideaway, 524 St. Johns Road East, near Port Dover for the Birdtown Jamboree, Sept. 11-13.
The annual Birdtown Jamboree returns Sept. 11-13 at Homegrown Hideaway, 524 St. Johns Road East, near Port Dover. “We raise money for children’s music and arts initiatives in Norfolk County,” said Tony Duclos in a Facebook promotional video. “Looking forward to people coming out to this year’s event.” For a full list of bands, see the Bird-
Simcoe Advocate
town Jamboree – Cornstock Facebook page. On Friday (7:30-11 p.m.) it’s the Erie Boys, Honey Static, Labelled by Heat, and The Echelon. Saturday’s full day of music entertainment runs from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., kicking off with opening ceremonies with the Young Theatre Players Crew. Saturday’s schedule includes Lilly Deming, The Catarino Brothers, Maddie and Paul, The Happy Few, Octane Therapy, Sharp Dogs, Purple Jelly, Jeremy and Tyrone, Ryan and Friends, Rick Mercer and Ron Harten, Tonestarz, Trouble by Design, Ron Robertson Band, Over Soul Drift, and Lower Ground. Sunday music, from 11-6, includes Kathy Tyrell and Friends, Dover Creek Duo, The Rutter Boys, Courtney and the Stray Cougars, Old Barn Doors, Amber Banks and Nolan Gibson, Route 6, Huzzah, and Eric Brousseau and Company. Look for the Art Guitar Auction – it’s worth checking out. There is also a silent auction. Licensed beer garden by Wishbone Brewing Co. Admission is $10 for Friday’s show, Saturday/Sunday $20 per day or $30 for a weekend pass. A weekend pass for 18 & under is $15, and children 12-and-under free. Bring your lawn chairs and settle in for some good local music while supporting children/youth music and arts initiatives.
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September 10, 2026
Norfolk has talent Norfolk Has Talent is returning for its 8th season after an eight-year hiatus. The 2026 Live Stage Showcase is Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, to be held in the Simcoe Composite School Auditorium. For seven seasons, Norfolk Has Talent proudly featured performers from the local
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1. Who plays the piano in Charlie Brown?
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traditionally kept by monks in the Swiss Alps to find lost travelers? 7. How many members does the South Korean band BTS have? 8. What are baby goats called? 9. What ball has 32 panels? 10. A pantheon is a temple dedicated to who?
This week’s answers are found on pg. 23
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September 10, 2026
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September 10, 2026
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Old Town Hall awarded $158,900 OTF grant
Local MPP Bobbi Ann Brady recently met with representatives from the Old Town Hall Association (OTHA) in Waterford to celebrate a $158,900 Capital Grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant will fund the restoration and repair of the 124-year-old heritage building’s roof. The restoration will protect the integrity of the heritage-designated building while continuing to offer valuable services and events such as arts programming which fosters a sense of connection, growth and support among all residents of Waterford and area. The announcement was made in conjunction with Summer’s Last Waltz, a free community musical celebration held yearly at the Old Town Hall. “I love when historic buildings have the duality to tell stories from our past and yet remain relevant to our day-to-day lives in the present,” said Bobbi Ann Brady, MPP for Haldimand-Norfolk, in a media release. “Using OTF funding to repair and restore the roof of this wonderful structure means it can continue being a testament to our history while providing cultural events and
programs for everyone in the Waterford community for decades to come.” The Old Town Hall Association acts as stewards of this heritage building on behalf of the Waterford community, maintaining its character and preserving its place in Waterford history. The mission of the Old Town Hall Association is to enhance the community life and the cultural lives of Waterford and the area people by providing a diverse range of activities and a venue for community events in the restored former Waterford and Townsend Township Town Hall. The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. In 202526, OTF invested nearly $107 million into 746 community projects. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
From left are Michelle Swyers, Director, Old Town Hall Association; Kim Huffman, Norfolk Ward 7 Councillor; and Bobbi Ann Brady, MPP Haldimand Norfolk, celebrate a $158,900 Capital Grant that The Old Town Hall association in Waterford received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation.
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New exhibit opens at Waterford museum BRENDA MOSER Advocate Contributor
I’ve often found that if you tell people you’re from Waterford their first impression might be there’s just nothing to do here and not much happening. Well, I beg to differ. Miles of beautifully maintained trails, quaint shops and antique markets, a local brewery, great fishing spots, friendly people who take the time to stop and visit… so much to attract visitors. A favorite spot to visit is the Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum. The museum is located in the ‘old pickle factory’ – as the locals would say – on Nichol Street, Waterford. The history of the building itself makes the facility even more special. Add to that the fact that it is home to reminders of the early days of Waterford and Norfolk County… the trains, old Cockshutt farm machinery, and new exhibition titled FORGED: NORFOLK’S INDUSTRIAL MIGHT, which will run from Sept.
10, 2026 to Jan. 31, 2027. Admission is by donation. In 2014 WHAM established the Agricultural Hall of Fame awards to ‘recognize individuals whose volunteer and professional contributions have advanced agriculture and rural development locally.’ This year’s inductees will be honoured on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 2 p.m. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend. Meet and greet to follow and light refreshments to be served. Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum is located at 159 Nichol St. and is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation. Be sure to put it on your list of ‘must see’ when visiting Waterford. Curator James Christison and Assistant Curator Angela Ferreira are more than happy to give you a tour of their facility and to answer any questions you might have about the history of their historic building and exhibits. Mark this one on your list of ‘to do’ for sure!
(CHRIS ABBOTT PHOTO)
There is a new exhibition at Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum titled Forged: Norfolk’s Industrial Might. It will run from Sept. 10, 2026 to Jan. 31, 2027. Admission is by donation.
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate
Supporting habitat for wildlife $256,700 OTF grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)
From left are ALUS Norfolk’s OTF Grant Recognition Event (Sept. 2) participants Bobbi Ann Brady, MPP Haldimand-Norfolk; Stephanie Giles, Program Director, ALUS Norfolk; Elaine Gosnell, landowner and ALUS participant; Dave Gosnell, landowner and ALUS participant; Shelley Bentley, Mayor Haldimand County; Ron Niville, Partner Advisory Committee (PAC) Chair, ALUS Norfolk; Melissa Collver, Grant Review Team member, Ontario Trillium Foundation; and Cathy Blott, Project Coordinator and Liaison, Haldimand Stewardship Council.
nature-based solutions alongside food and fibre to help minimize biodiversity loss. Nature-based projects such as wetlands, grasslands and tree & shrub plantings, keep lakes, rivers and streams clean, provide food and shelter for wildlife, and better prepare communities for extreme weather events. The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF)
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balance of agricultural and nature by actively organizing and participating in community-developed, farmer delivered projects that focus on restoring and managing ecosystems on marginal and ecologically sensitive agricultural lands. ALUS is a charitable organization that envisions a future where all farmers and ranchers produce ecosystem services from
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Haldimand Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady recently met with ALUS Norfolk to hear more about the $256,700 Grow Grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to support the establishment of 30 acres of grassland habitat on six Haldimand farms. The project will empower farmers to restore marginal land for habitat conservation in Haldimand County. “Protecting arable farmland and habitat conservation are two of my passions,” said Bobbi Ann Brady, Haldimand-Norfolk MPP in a media release. “This worthy OTF Grow Grant will be a force of good as it helps expand grassland initiatives in Haldimand County.” The Grow Grant allowed ALUS Norfolk to expand grassland projects from exclusively Norfolk County into a new geographic location; the neighbouring county of Haldimand. Partnership from Haldimand Stewardship Council facilitated connections and expertise which resulted in tributary buffers, erosion control projects and corridor development. Stephanie Giles, ALUS Norfolk’s Program Director, says “This funding has been crucial to the success of delivering the ALUS program in Haldimand County. We are pleased to report that we have already established over 17 acres of restoration projects in partnership with Haldimand Stewardship Council, with an additional 15 acres in queue for 2026 and 2027. OTF’s support is helping foster knowledge, strengthen collaboration and create a greater environmental impact on the ground across southern Ontario.” ALUS Norfolk supports the important
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Simcoe Advocate
September 10, 2026
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(JEFF HELSDON PHOTOS)
Sunny weather was on tap for the 25th anniversary edition of the Bayfest parade in Port Rowan on Sunday. Usually the largest draw of the Bayfest weekend, there was also a Kim Mitchell concert on Saturday night, a variety of activities and contests for young and old alike and superb meals served by local groups. Sunday was capped off by a fireworks display.
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Homick, Buelow open Junior Grand Prix season JEFF TRIBE Advocate Contributor
Summer Homick and Nick Buelow’s International Skating Union (ISU) season-opening Junior Grand Prix Ice Dance bronze medal in Xi’an, China, August 20-22 represented success in both ‘journey’ and ‘destination.’ A podium finish was where the pair wanted, virtually needed to further their shared goal of qualifying for the Junior Grand Prix series championship this December. The mental resilience they showed in order to move up two positions and achieve that goal indicated less obvious but equally crucial progress. “It was a good start for our season and testament to our mental game,” said Homick. “It’s a big testament on how we can compose ourselves.” It was a short off-season for Homick and Buelow. Their 2025-26 campaign finished at world championships the first week of March in Tallinn, Estonia. Beyond guest ap-
pearances in skating shows, they enjoyed a short break, but were quickly back on the ice training for this year’s programs: a rhythm component skated to Prince’s Wow and Kiss, and their free dance set to Evita. In a sport where a full year of training culminates in a few short minutes on the ice, there is scant opportunity to ramp up as the season progresses. “You want to be ready right away, basically,” said Buelow. “You just have to be ready to go out there and do your thing for those five minutes. “You don’t have time to be nervous.” They opened with a strong 131.07-point gold medal finish at the 2026 Nextgen Competition at the Slush Puppy Centre in Gatineau, Quebec, July 17-18. Homick and Buelow headed an all-Canadian field with ice dance pairs from Quebec, Audra Gans and Danil Park, and Laurence Briere and Earl Jesse Celestino, finishing second and third, with 127.95 and 127.28 points respectively. Xi’an represented Homick and Buelow’s first international event of the season. It is one of seven Grand Prix competitions leading up to the series final, scheduled for Dec. 10-13 in Chongqing, China. Teams typically accumulate points through two of seven events, with the top six
qualifying for the final. “Our hopes and dreams are to get to the junior grand prix final,” said Homick. Those hopes and dreams got off on the wrong skate, so to speak, with the loss of their luggage - including their skates - en route to Xi’an. “That was a bit of a mess - a frantic disaster,” said Homick. With Skate Canada working behind the scenes, their luggage was tracked down. But the time it took cut their pre-event practice in half, down from an expected two full days to one. The setback was compounded by what Buelow called ‘a bit of a shaky start’ to their rhythm dance program. “We weren’t ‘into the ice,’” he said, a differentiation they use from skating ‘on top’ of the ice. “We’re not skating like sticks on top of the ice,” Homick explained. “We’re into it and in control.” The second half of their rhythm dance was ‘strong and into the ice’ the way they wanted to skate, Buelow continued, but a couple of small errors left them sitting in fifth CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
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Summer Homick and Nick Buelow got their junior ice dance season off on the right skate with a Junior Grand Prix ice dance bronze medal at Xi’an, China.
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Simcoe Advocate
September 10, 2026
A wickedly good bluefin tuna adventure
15
Long Point’s Will Bouck now hauls in Nova Scotia bluefin instead of Inner Bay ‘smallies’
The Lost Tribe By Jeff Tribe Big-game rod bending in a tight arc, I braced my feet on the chair rail and hung on for dear life, thankful it was attached to me and I to the boat. Unseen, the bluefin tuna headed straight down into 20 fathoms of Atlantic Ocean, 300-pound test monofilament line screaming off the massive big-game reel. You can read all the articles you want. And watch every video you can find. But nothing, absolutely nothing, will prepare you for the adrenaline rush of a 500-pound fish making a run. “The power, the sheer fight in the fish is unbelievable,” said Tuna Fever Fishing Charter First Mate Ken Snow in the aftermath, pointing out reels are set for between 35 and 40 pounds of drag. “And they’re just screaming the reel. “And then when you’re trying to get it back… man against
Long Point native Will Bouck now fishes for bluefin tuna in Nova Scotia.
beast, this is literally man against beast.” For associated video, search Tuna Billy Jeff Tribe The Lost Tribe on Youtube or copy and paste the following URL: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=jsv9I8zV2Z4
I was in better hands than the tuna, aboard captain Billy Bond’s custom-built 38-foot Cape Islander Melissa and Papa III, christened after his daughter and her nickname for his father. A lifelong resident of Canso, Bond got his first fishing licence at the
Will Bouck (left), originally from Long Point, battles a Nova Scotia bluefin tuna under the watchful eye of first mate Ken Snow (right).
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTOS)
age of 13. His 50-year career on the water spanned smelt, mackerel, cod, snow crab and shrimp, before a current focus on lobster and tuna. Years ago, tuna were considered a nuisance, unintentional bi-catch in nets. But in the 1970s, a small market developed, says Bond. Asian and other buyers eventually lined up on the wharf to bid on freshly caught and cleaned fish with prices running from $20 to as high as $55 a pound. He purchased his tuna licence later, which today means one to two tags per year. Fish are now sold through buyers, and Bond recalls a ‘prime’ specimen dressing out at 330 pounds going for $12.50 a pound earlier this season. That multiplies to a good number, until you factor in overhead, $2 per litre diesel fuel and crew wages, or the fact additional tags purchased from other fishermen come at a cost of $2,000 per. “Guess what, we’re doing it for fun,” laughed Bond. “That’s what we’re doing, because we like tuna fishing.” The practical season for bluefin off Canso is spring, summer and fall, around winter migration for spawning. Ninety per cent of
fishermen are cooperative, helping each other locate fish which can be found a mile offshore or 20 miles out. “It’s a big ocean,” said Bond. “It’s hit and miss, but normally we do all right.” In his mind, bluefin tuna are the most beautiful fish in the ocean, large, powerful, graceful and aerodynamic, like bullets going through the air, except through the water. “They’re a big fish, it’s a big game. You’re not playing with a little trout in a lake.” A 500-pound tuna will give a good fight, five or six good runs, some of them outlasting heavier fish in terms of time taken to get them to the boat. But there was the estimated 1,100 pounder which Bond and Snow fought for six-and-a-half hours, only to have it snap a brand-new line, right alongside. “Got him up, had a look at him, that was about it,” smiled Bond, adding with a laugh, “and then I cried for two hours.” ‘Fifteen or 20’ years ago, he entered the charter business. Bond has appeared on The Discovery CONTINUED ON PAGE 16
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate
An estimated 500-pound bluefin tuna breaks the surface close by Tuna Fever Charter Boat Melissa and Papa III.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTOS)
From Long Point to fishing for bluefin tuna CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Channel (Catching Monsters), Fishing Canada and also visits the Toronto Sportsman’s Show annually. He has two booking agents and clients can also schedule trips directly through his website: https://www. tunafeverfishingcharters.com/ or connect via his email bill.bond62@ outlook.com or phone number 902366-2934. Tuna tactics include trolling sets of rubber squid on a steel bar, one
‘stinger’ with a hook trailing the rest. “That’s pretty much it, the weakest guy gets it,” explained Bond, who trolls mostly in the fall. This day, we began a drift over the point of an underwater shoal ‘eight or nine miles’ offshore with presentations of live mackerel. Two lines held circle-hooked swimmers on the end of six-foot fluorocarbon leaders. A third illustrated Bond’s preferred method, a skillful and well-practiced kite/second line combination taking
Tuna Fever Charter Captain Billy Bond adjusts his fishing kite.
the bait 10 metres off the starboard side and holding it on the surface. Obviously, one is there for tuna but the overall experience of embarking from a maritime wharf, passing lighthouses, other vessels, finding a whale or two if you’re lucky, is not to be understated. A hook-up with a six-foot blue shark proved an added bonus, if unwelcome for the crew. They have a habit of rolling when hooked, tangling themselves in leader, line and CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
An estimated 500-pound bluefin tuna passes close by Tuna Fever Charter Boat Melissa and Papa III.
Simcoe Advocate
September 10, 2026
Battling a tuna is a mental and physical game CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16
hook. “He wraps it up, bites it off and everything’s gone,” explained Bond. This time, the trio managed to cautiously and safely extricate the hook, photo ops included. There’s also the chance to hang out in the open Atlantic with experienced fishermen who happen to be Maritimers. This is Nova Scotia after all, where when my wife got hung up on the side of the road, six vehicles stopped to help, converted a tie-down strap into a makeshift tow rope and had her back on the road before you could say ‘ceilidh.’ Great place, great people. Snow, who returned to his father’s native Nova Scotia from the Barrie area at 11, operates his own lobster boat. He joined Bond tuna fishing and acts as auxiliary captain when he’s unavailable. “I don’t know if we’ve caught a thousand,” said Snow. “But it’s been hundreds.” The third crew member, Will Bouck, is a Long Point, Ontario native who grew up fishing for trout and salmon on Lake Ontario, and perch, pike and bass on the inner bay, trolling little perch Rapalas with his dad Larry on sand flats out of Old Cut. “Deadly, deadly,” said Bouck. “There wasn’t a bass opener we didn’t come home without our limit.” He has been in Nova Scotia for five years, fishing for four, and with Bond for three, for both lobster and tuna. “Straight adrenaline from the second you get hooked up,” said Bouck of the latter. “The adrenaline rush and just the size, the size of them when they come to the boat.” We were comparing notes on sea duck hunting on small,
Long Point native Will Bouck has traded battling Inner Bay smallmouth bass for Nova Scotia bluefin tuna with Tuna Fever Fishing Charter captain Billy Bond.
rocky Nova Scotia islands to Long Point, and checking out a massive non-typical buck on Bouck’s phone, when as it does, calm turned into chaos. “Oh, oh, oh!” Snow exclaimed, indicating a pole on the port side, which had abruptly done a 180-degree turn. “Hooked up!” It was an organized chaos, other poles quickly reeled in to avoid tangling, the ‘fish on’ model tied off with a rope (one does not wish to lose a $3,000 reel, $1,000 pole and $500 worth of line), before being carefully moved and anchored in the port position on the stern where Bond could see runs unfold and drive in response. Snow placed himself in between, anticipating and communicating with the captain as Bouck took point on the pole, an efficient partnership reacting in a hurry. “You go from zero to 60 faster than a Ferrari,” Snow laughed. In general, when the tuna ran, Bouck watched the reel peel. When it paused, he would recover line with his gloved, left hand and reel with his right. And when it ran toward the boat, he reeled like a madman. Guided by he and Snow, as well as his own experience, Bond expertly steered the boat to keep the line clear, while also strategically, encouraging the tuna’s natural tendency to go deep, a vertical hook-up having better odds of staying put than a shallower angle. Battling a tuna is a mental as well as physical game. “Find your zen, your calm spot,” Snow explained. Bouck spoke to getting past that first adrenaline rush, controlling one’s breathing and ‘getting back on.’ “You get fighting a fish, it doesn’t take long to wear yourself out. We always tell you just take your time, deep breaths and reel the fish in when he lets you. Because when he first hooks up, he’s just going peel line and run, run, run, run.” After several powerful runs, the fish entered the finishing phase, a ‘death circle’ near the surface, showing ‘colour’ while lying on its side. It’s a critical period, tuna trying instinctively to chafe the line on the keel or propeller, says Bouck. “They’re really smart, they know how to get underneath the boat and break themselves off.” Twenty-five minutes after Snow’s initial cry, an estimated 400-pound ‘butterball’ lay alongside the boat. On this catch-and-release trip the fish’s health was paramount, line holding a biodegradable hook quickly snipped, tuna
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returning to the depths. Having expected to be only an observer, a second hookup provided an unexpected opportunity to be shepherded and assisted through a turn on the back end of the pole by Bouck and Snow. No, I did not find my ‘zen.’ And yes, I did wear the ‘wussy’ tag for reeling with both hands. But I’ll happily take it for an experience which can only be described as indescribable in terms of sheer elemental power and adrenaline, a greater understanding of Earnest Hemingway’s classic novel. We headed back from a great eight-hour journey, photos and video captured, a bucket list item checked, an opportunity I never expected, shared. It was difficult to adequately express ‘thanks’, save for the deep understanding in one for whom the experience never gets old. “They’re just an amazing fish to catch,” Bond concluded. “It doesn’t matter how many years you’ve been at it, it’s still exciting to catch one.”
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTOS)
Long Point native Will Bouck.
An interloping blue shark was safely and successfully unhooked, gear intact.
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Email to inquire: info@simcoeadvocate.com SPONSORED BY
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OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM & SATURDAY 9AM-3PM SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 WATERFORD LEGION FUNDRAISER FOR THE NORFOLK-HALDIMAND HOSPICE
Dinner from 4:00 p.m - 6:00 p.m Menu: Beef Brisket, BBQ Chicken, Smoked Mac & Cheese, Veggies and Bun. Cost: Advance tickets $35.00 per ticket At the door: $40.00 per ticket Admission only: $10.00 per ticket. Live Music: From 3 - 6 pm: The Atkinson Brothers Band 6 - 8 pm Wild High Band and 8 - 10 pm Street Survivors. Tickets can be purchased in the Club Room at the Legion Waterford Legion 223 Nichol St. OUTDOOR FALL MARKET
9:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m. The St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Women’s League is hosting a Fall Market Local vendors include garden flowers, local fruits and veggies , home baking , tasty treats, crafts , home treasures and outdoor décor. Come enjoy the colours and flavours of fall, discover something special and support out local community. We look forward to seeing you there. Parking lot at 165 Thompson Rd., Waterford SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 2ND ANNUAL PORCH MUSIC
Event runs from 1:30 to 5:00 p.m A FREE community concert featuring live music, local food & drink, family fun and community events across four amazing venues in New Hamburg. The Waterlot – Main Stage | Imperial Market Patio | Puddicombe House | LYNC Station BRUNCH
9:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m. $15.00 Children 6-12: $8.00 Under 6: Free Waterford Legion 223 Nichol St. ST. MARY'S CEMETERYDECORATION DAY AND MEMORIAL SERVICE
2:00 p.m Luncheon to follow at the Army, Navy, Air Force Club, 53 Water St., Simcoe. Donations welcomed for the upkeep of the Cemetery. 271 Fourteenth St. West, Simcoe. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 FREE LUNCH & LEARN
11:30 a.m. – Doors Open 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Presentation
Guest Speaker: Dr. Alison Malo Haldimand-Norfolk’s Coroner Learn about the Coroner’s office, the death investigation process in Ontario, when an autopsy is required, and more. Open to your questions! Bring your own lunch. Beverages & sweets provided. Fundraiser: Blind Date with a Book Donations Welcome Contact Friends of the Library Simcoe Branch Chapter at folsimcoebranch2@gmail.com for more information.
46TH ANNUAL NORFOLK COUNTY TERRY FOX RUN
Registration begins at 10:00 a.m Event begins at 11:00 a.m You can register at terryfox.org - runsite is Norfolk County. Lions Park | 75 Davis st E. Simcoe FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 WINGS & KARAOKE
Norfolk County Public Library – Simcoe Branch (Lower Level)
Begins at 4:45 p.m. Cost: Wings: per lb. $15.00 Onion Rings: $6.00 Fries: $5.00. Karaoke to follow in Club Room
DELHI & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETING
Waterford Legion 223 Nichol St.
7:30 p.m Guest Speak - Dylan Cowan who works closely with Kevin Kavenaugh at South Coast Gardens. TOPIC: Growing Flowers and food together. All welcome to join us. Delhi Senior Friendship Centre | 418 Queen Street (Enter at rear parking lot off William St.) WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 136TH LANGTON FAIR ANNOUNCEMENT
136th Langton Fair will be held on Wednesday September 16, 2026 at the Langton arena. Parade will begin at 11 am with opening ceremonies to follow. CWL luncheon at the Langton Community Centre. Also Baby Show, Talent Show, Tobacco Tying Contest and Car and Tractor Show! Also exhibits for Preserves, Baking, Homecrafts etc For adult and student prize lists call or text Carol 519-875-2973 or Susan 519-427-6314 Langton Arena THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 CLASSIC AUTO SHOW
Event runs from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Simcoe Heritage Friendship Festival Classic Auto Show at Lynnwood Park features classic cars, trophies, draws & prizes, a food truck, music by DJ Randy Halmo and more! $20 registration | 220 dash plaques | 150th car wins a special gate prize Lynnwood Park – Simcoe, Ontario OCTOBER 6 - OCTOBER 12 FAIR PARKING
Help support St. James United Church 150 Colborne St. Simcoe by parking for a $5.00 donation at the Church. Just a short walk to the fairgrounds. Oct. 6-12. 150 Colborne St. Simcoe SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24 BOO BASH HALLOWEEN BREAKFAST
SENIOR'S FALL HOEDOWN
Event runs from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy a spooktacular familyfriendly Halloween breakfast at the Waterford Legion Branch 123! Adults $15 | Children $10 | Under 5 years FREE
Waterford Legion 223 Nichol St.
Advance tickets only. Contact Renee at 226-5671026, Linda at 416-270-9885 or Trish at 548722-0163.
2:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m. Please call Sharon at 519-443-7567 to reserve a spot. This is a free activity Totally Fall, with lots of food and fun!
SEPTEMBER 18 & 19 FREE CLOTHING GIVEAWAY
Friday - 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday - 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. St. James United Church, 150 Colborne St. S., Simcoe SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Waterford Legion Branch 123
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
Simcoe Advocate the and join in the fun! Waterford Legion | 223 Nichol Street in Waterford
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 THURSDAYS CORNHOLE
7:00 p.m.
September 10, 2026
Join in this free activity. Thursdays (except the 4th Thursday)
Masonic Hall | 190 Thames St. S. Ingersoll
Waterford Legion 223 Nichol St.
Join a 100-year-old, community-focused club dedicated to supporting Norfolk youth, scholarships, the arts, and local and international initiatives. Mondays | 11:45 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Bi-weekly in July & August. Enjoy lunch, interesting speakers and great fellowship! Email: simcoe.rotary.club@gmail. com Come see what Rotary is all about!
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
EVERY OTHER FRIDAY INGERSOLL COUNTRY MUSIC JAMBOREE 1:00 p.m - 4:00 p.m Every other Friday, 1-4pm be fall-ish and come to the Ingersoll Country Music Jamboree at Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St. S. Ingersoll. Join us, walk ins welcome. Qualifications - love 5070's country music. Perform, listen, dance & enjoy! September 4 & 18, October 2, 16 & 30, November 6 & 20, and December 4.
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ROTARY CLUB OF SIMCOE
Simcoe Legion | 200 West St. Simcoe
BINGO PRESENTED TO YOU BY ABEL ENTERPRISES Various Dates: Monday on September 14, 28, October 5, 19, November 2, 16 & 30, December 7, 21, 2026 January 4, 18, Feb 1 & 15 & March 1, 15, 29, 2027 Doors open at 5:00/Early bird 6:30/Main Games begin at 7:00. Concession goodies sold & provided by Simcoe & District Humane Society Come support your local non-profits. Thank you
Homick, Buelow win Xi’an ice dance bronze CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14
position heading into the following day’s free dance portion. Their training helped prepare them for the challenge to come, both on-ice and additional sports psychology work to support their ‘mental game.’ “It’s always better to have more tools in your toolbox,” said Homick, who beyond that more formal work, says she and Buelow are able to rely on each other. “We both kind of recognize when the other is getting a little stressed out,” he said, noting their response tends to be situational and based on their own unique approaches. “I’d say Nick is the calmer one out there,” Homick credited. “When I get riled up, he looks at me and says, ‘Just breathe.’” Conversely, Buelow leans into Homick’s commitment and determination. “Summer is super committed, that’s always the word that comes to mind,” he said. “She’s bringing ‘Let’s get going’ energy and really gets me up.” Following the challenges of a stressful night where sleep proved difficult, and being the first team to hit the ice following warmup, the pair responded with exactly the kind of performance they needed. “We just laid it out on the table,” said
Homick. “We just had to skate well.” Settling in right away, they brought the program they needed to perform, getting them where they needed to be. Their 87.74-point free dance score brought their final total to 143.68, lifting them from fifth past a pair of American competitors and ultimately into third place. “I think we represented ourselves really well and came off as a very strong team,” Homick assessed. Overall, all things considered, the competition was a productive and also enjoyable experience. Chinese fans are a joy to skate in front of, she said, appreciation extending to seeking autographs and photos, some bringing photos of them to sign. “You feel like a celebrity,” Homick laughed. “It made us feel the love, that’s for sure.” The pair is looking forward to its next grand prix event, the fifth of seven scheduled, in Batumi, Georgia, Sept. 24-26. A potential appearance in the final, Canadian championships, and worlds are also on their competitive radar. “Every year we’re trying to push ourselves further and further,” Homick summed up. Missions accomplished both in and away from the ri
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(ZHE JI - INTERNATIONAL SKATING UNION/INTERNATIONAL SKATING UNION VIA GETTY IMAGES)
Summer Homick and Nick Buelow relied on both their physical and mental training en route to a Junior Grand Prix ice dance medal in Xi’an, China.
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate
Why the world comes to Stratford
OH, THE
PLACES WE'LL GO
(STRATFORD FESTIVAL PHOTO)
Michelle Bardach, brilliant understudy as Portia in “Something Rotten”.
By Paul Knowles As we sat in the Festival Theatre, waiting for the lights to dim, I found myself wondering about the hundreds of people sitting around us. Where were they from? How many had travelled north across that now-controversial border? It’s easy to forget that familiar old Stratford is one of the key tourist destinations in Canada. But it certainly is, with multiple thousands of visitors coming to the community every season. Once the play started – that fantastic, hilarious, energetic musical called “Something Rotten” – those thoughts disappeared, as I surrendered to the sheer delight of the performance. But a few days later, the question popped back into my head. So I went to the source. I emailed Stratford Festival publicist Helena Turpin, and asked two questions: “Where do Stratford audiences come from?” and “How many tickets does the theatre sell?” I found the answers fascinating, and I decided to share them
(ANN BAGGLEY PHOTO)
Marissa Orialo as Ariel with members of the company in “The Tempest”.
with you, including a full list of the nations represented in those audiences. The answer to the second question is uncomplicated. In 2025, the Festival sold 482,000 tickets. Many of those are to locals, but that also represents a heck of a lot of tourists. And I find the information about where these people come from to be very interesting. Helena told me that my question about country of origin was not something she has seen before, and that she was intrigued by the data she accessed through the online ticketing system. She called the findings, “interesting and inspiring”. I agree. So here, stats and trivia lovers, is a full list of the countries from whence came Stratford Festival attendees this year. Top two, not surprisingly, are Canada and the United States – still sharing culture despite all the controversy.
After that, Helena shared the list in alphabetical order. People came to Stratford from Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Japan, Malawi, The Netherlands, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Panama, Peoples' Republic of China, Portugal, Qatar, Singapore, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. And while the theatre is undoubtedly the biggest draw, there is so much more about Stratford to enjoy. This summer, we have attended outdoor concerts, we have picnicked beside Lake Victoria, we have dined in local restaurants, relaxed in pubs, and enjoyed walks along the water, parks, and streets boasting amazing front yard gardens. And, we have attended plays. The two most recent we took
in have reminded me of the sheer excellence of Stratford theatre. This was most obvious because, in the case of both plays, somebody didn’t show up. The plays were “The Tempest”, and “Something Rotten”. Both are on the classic thrust stage of the Festival Theatre – and two more different uses of that space cannot be imagined. Both are brilliantly staged, with great performances. But some of those performances were especially noteworthy because they were carried off by understudies. Most impressive was the work of Ben Carlson in The Tempest. Carlson, who usually plays a lesser character, was elevated to the leader role of Prospero, because he is understudy to Geraint Wyn Davies, who was unavailable. I don’t know about you, but when I see that dreaded slip of white paper tucked into the play brochure, announcing an understudy, I feel let down. Wrong. Carlson was amazing. He carried of his new duties flawlessly and convincingly. His interactions with Marissa Orjalo, who played the exotic spirit Ariel, were emotionally moving. Altogether an amazing accomplishment. You might think that the Tempest – Shakespeare’s final play
written solely by the bard – and Something Rotten, a musical written only a decade ago – would have nothing in common. Essentially, that’s true. Except for the whole understudy thing. Because again, when we saw this terrific musical, one of the lead roles – Portia – was played by an understudy. And again, Michelle Bardach, stepping into the role, was amazing. No offense intended to the usual actor, but I can’t imagine a finer portrayal of the character. Something Rotten is actually “something unusual”, in that it was presented at Stratford only two seasons ago. But it’s back and I’m glad – it has become one of my favourite musicals ever. The entire cast is terrific (including the astonishing dancers, put through their paces by the great Donna Feore, who both directed and choreographed the play). And I confess a special affection for Dan Chameroy, who plays the entirely outrageous Nostradamus, and my friend Steve Ross, whose Shylock comes to a much better end than Shakespeare ever imagined. I’m going on at this length about understudies because I think this is strong evidence of the excellence of productions at Stratford. This quality is maintained without missing a beat. And quality is the reason people have come from 30 countries or so to our part of the world. Now that fall is upon us, we locals still get the opportunity to take in some of the finest theatre in the world. The Tempest is on stage through October 24; Something Rotten runs through October 31. 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.
(DARIANE SANCHE PHOTO)
Members of the company, Something Rotten, including Dan Chameroy, third from left.
The classic Festival Theatre.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTO)
Simcoe Advocate
Riddle I can be sharpened, but I am not a blade. I can leave a mark, but I am not a footprint. I may be held tightly when an answer is uncertain, and disappear little by little the more you learn.
September 10, 2026
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PET OF THE WEEK
Nominate your Pet of the Week by emailing info@simcoeadvocate.com
ZALEY Meet our Pet of the Week: Pretty and petite, ZALEY was the smallest of her litter. Although she loves to romp & wrestle with other kittens, Zaley is a very gentle girl. Initially shy with strangers, once she is comfortable Zaley shows her playful, fun and affectionate personality. In a calm and patient home Zaley will blossom and be an amazing pet. ZANI, her foster "brother" & ZALEY, have become close companions now that their siblings have all been adopted. and would both benefit if adopted together. They have recently moved from their foster home to our shelter location.
Answer: A Pencil
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September 10, 2026
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Simcoe Advocate
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4. A smooth-skinned fruit that can be purple, red or yellow
2. A colourful vegetable that can be sweet and crunchy
8. A small blue fruit often added to yogurt or cereal
3. A green vegetable made up of small tree-like florets
9. Young soybeans commonly served in their pods
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10. A creamy green fruit often spread on toast
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crisp vegetable often sliced into lunchbox unds
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13. A tropical fruit with a prickly exterior and spiky crown 16. Crunchy green pods that can be eaten whole 17. A melon with orange flesh and a netted outer skin 18. An orange vegetable often cut into sticks for dipping 22. A white vegetable with tightly packed florets 23. A refreshing fruit with a green rind and juicy interior 25. A small fruit that usually has a pit in its centre
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September 10, 2026
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Across: A crisp vegetable often sliced into lunchbox 4. A smooth-skinned fruit that can be purpl rounds red or yellow 2. A colourful vegetable that can be sweet and 8. A small blue fruit often added to yogurt o Email to inquire: info@simcoeadvocate.com crunchy cereal 3. A green vegetable made up of small 9. Young soybeans commonly served in the tree-like florets pods 5. Small round fruits that are easy to pack by 10. A creamy green fruit often spread on toa the handful 12. A yellow fruit that comes in its own natur I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca 6. Cola, A smooth-skinned relative of the peach wrapper A citrus fruit known for its bright colour and 13. A tropical fruit with a prickly exterior and Pepsi or any pop company. Brewery items -7. Kuntz, juicy segments spiky crown Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, 10. A crisp fruit often packed whole or sliced for 16. Crunchy green pods that can be eaten w wristwatches, pocket watches, old fruit jars - Beaver school 17. A melon with orange flesh and a netted Star, Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and 11. signs - green that can be added to wraps A leafy outer skin Red Indian, Supertest etc. Any small furniture. and sandwiches 18. An orange vegetable often cut into sticks A sweet fruit with a rounded bottom and for dipping If you are moving or cleaning out stuff please14. contact 1.
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WANTED
FUNERAL SERVICES
me – 519-570-6920.
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TRAVEL PRESENTATIONS
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SPECTACULAR SCANDINAVIA Norway, Sweden, Denmark 15-day Group Motorcoach Tour Departing from Port Dover/Simcoe July 9 – 23, 2027 Includes: local airport transfers, airfare, 20 meals, deluxe accommodations, fully escorted, sightseeing, cruises, train rides
Tuesday, September 22nd 2:00 pm - Port Dover Grace United Church 18 Chapman St. W. 6:00 pm - Simcoe South Coast World Travel 61 Robinson St. Seats are Limited: RSVP to janice@ketchen.net 416-505-1658 | 519-426-2144
PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS WITH US!HERE’S HOW: Deadline: Monday prior at 3 p.m. | Contact: info@simcoeadvocate.com • The Simcoe Advocate Community Calendar allows non-profit organizations to promote their free admission community events at no charge. Event listings can include the event name, date, time and location as well as contact information (ie phone number, email address or website). • If your event is not free admission or you would like to include more details than stated above, the Simcoe Advocate offers the following options for promoting your community events: ◦ Coming Events Word Ad (50 word max.) - $10 + hst ◦ Coming Events Boxed Word Ad (50 word max.) - $15 + hst ◦ Display Ad - Sizes begin at a Small Classified Display ad (3.3" x 2.5") - $35 + hst
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September 10, 2026
Simcoe Advocate