Local News Headlines
Overnight barn fire in Waterford causes $1M loss
Two barns were destroyed in a late-night fire on Concession 10 Townsend on Thursday. Norfolk County Fire Department responded to the blaze just after 11:30 p.m., with assistance from two Haldimand County fire stations. The barns, which were unoccupied at the time, contained items valued at approximately $1,000,000. The...
Dec 20, 2024
Jagmeet Singh to vote no-confidence against Liberal government
Canada may be heading into a federal election sooner rather than later. This morning, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh announced that he would be putting forth a vote of no-confidence towards the Trudeau government, saying that the Liberals have failed Canadians in a number of regards. The Liberal government had survived previ...
Dec 20, 2024
$4,000 boost for Norfolk hospice: Rotary Club steps up
The Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice has received a generous $4,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise. This contribution will fund new signage for the hospice's capital campaign, which aims to raise awareness and support for building a dedicated hospice facility in Norfolk County. "We are deeply ...
Dec 20, 2024
Think you can make a difference? Haldimand Norfolk Liberals want you
The Haldimand Norfolk Provincial Liberal Association is looking for a candidate. We spoke with Vice President Peter Black about the search, and he is asking residents to consider answering that call. Interested potential Haldimand Norfolk Liberal Candidates may contact Peter Black, Search Committee Chair, confidentiall...
Dec 20, 2024
OPP Project Atlas tackles cryptocurrency scams in Ontario
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is stepping up efforts to combat a growing threat: cryptocurrency investment scams. The new initiative, known as Project Atlas, is a specialized task force focused on preventing fraud linked to cryptocurrency investments, a problem that has left many victims with significant financial lo...
Dec 20, 2024
$100K grant boosts Victim Services' safety and expansion efforts
Victim Services Haldimand Norfolk New Credit (VSHNNC) has received a $100,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant to enhance community support. Local MPP Bobbi Ann Brady joined the organization on Tuesday to celebrate the funding, which will drive a four-year strategic plan, improve cybersecurity, and expand servic...
Dec 20, 2024
COMMUNUITY SPOTLIGHT: Celebrate Christmas dinner with Church Out Serving
For the past four years, Church Out Serving has hosted a Christmas dinner and festive gathering for those in the community. Those who are in danger of going hungry on Christmas Day or have no one to share the day with are welcome to attend for food and fellowship. Eric Haverkamp notes the importance of the day. To regi...
Dec 20, 2024
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Dream Lottery winners announced: Life-changing prizes in support of health care
The Dream Lottery has announced its top winners, supporting health care foundations in London. The draw took place on December 17th, at the Royal Oak Dream Home in Thorndale. Robert and Maria Craig of London, won the grand prize. Their prize options include a Royal Oak Dream Home valued at $1,453,000, a Ritz Carlton Ya...
Dec 19, 2024
Century home destroyed by fire in Waterford: Smoke alarms save lives
A devastating house fire broke out at a century home near Old Highway 24 and 11th Concession Townsend in Waterford on Wednesday at around 4:45 p.m. Flames were visible through the roof when firefighters from five Norfolk County stations arrived. Two occupants were home at the time. One was treated for smoke inhalation ...
Dec 19, 2024
The Norfolk County 48
Here's what's going on in Norfolk County over the next 48 hours. Stuff to do: Today: The last Simcoe Farmers Market of 2024 is this Thursday. They will be doing a Vendor Draw, so while shopping make sure to put your name in. Christmas music will be playing that day as well. The Market's next day open will be January 9t...
Dec 19, 2024
Vanthuyne Jewellers shines with generations of craftsmanship and innovation
Whether it's a symbol of love, a family heirloom, or a marker of life's milestones, jewelry tells a story that lasts a lifetime. No one knows this better than Bob and Cheryl Vanthuyne, of Vanthuyne Jewellers in Simcoe. They have been a trusted name in jewelry since 1976. As Cheryl explains, Bob is a second-generation o...
Dec 19, 2024
Kim Rent honoured with 2024 Kelly Currie Nursing Excellence Award
West Haldimand General Hospital (WHGH) has announced Kim Rent, a Registered Practical Nurse in the Ambulatory Care and Perioperative Department, as the recipient of the 2024 Kelly Currie Nursing Excellence Award. Kim, who joined WHGH in 2016, was recognized for her compassion, dedication, and commitment to exceptional ...
Dec 19, 2024
Holiday hazard: Keep your Christmas tree safe from fires
You've chopped down the beautiful green tree and have it on display at home. It looks beautiful, but under certain conditions, it could just be a form of kindling. Also, take it from uncle Lewis, do not smoke near the tree. Written by Matt Leblanc
Dec 19, 2024
Holiday crackdown: Norfolk OPP charges 5 in Festive RIDE blitz
Norfolk County OPP are ramping up enforcement as part of the Festive RIDE campaign, an annual initiative to remove impaired drivers from Ontario roads during the holiday season. Since December 13th, five individuals have been charged in separate incidents. In Port Dover, a pickup truck driver collided with a parked veh...
Dec 19, 2024
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Arcady presents Handel's Messiah
A special night in Waterford. The concert goes from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. You can read more here: Written by Matt Leblanc
Dec 19, 2024
Theodore TOO partially sinks in St. Catharines port
One of the most recognizable ships in Canada has had a rough start to the winter season. Theodore Too, a small tugboat known for its smiling face and bright red hat who had visited Port Dover in the past, took on water while tied up at the dock at Ontario Shipyards in St. Catharines. On Instagram Theodore posted: "...
Dec 18, 2024
Norfolk General Hospital secures funding for physician recruitment, council voices reservations
Norfolk County Council agreed to provide Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) with $100,000 for doctor recruitment, despite some concerns from councillors. NGH CEO Todd Stepanuik and Physician Recruiter Carolyn Beam presented a deputation to council, outlining past strategies for attracting doctors to the area and emphasizin...
Dec 18, 2024
The Norfolk County 48
Here's what's going on in Norfolk County over the next 48 hours. Stuff to do: Tomorrow: The last Simcoe Farmers Market of 2024 is this Thursday. They will be doing a Vendor Draw, so while shopping make sure to put your name in. Christmas music will be playing that day as well. The Market's next day open will be January...
Dec 18, 2024
Turkey Talk Line offers up tips for Christmas dinner - How do you properly thaw a turkey? Tips for first time hosts?
Cooking can be stressful, especially if it's your first year hosting a Christmas dinner. Thankfully, help is just a phone call away with Butterball's Turkey Talk-Line. Each year, 52 food professionals are trained to handle these calls, with their preparation starting as early as October. Mary Alice also shared some mem...
Dec 18, 2024
With snow in the forecast, GEDSB reminding parents of school and bus cancellation procedures
It's the last week of school before the Christmas break, but when they come back, it could look a bit more like winter. The Grand Erie District School Board is putting out a reminder to parents and caregivers regarding school closures. The decision to cancel school or buses will be made the day of by 6:30 a.m. Due to t...
Dec 18, 2024
Ontario launches 2025 Fight Against Invasive Phragmites
The Ontario Phragmites Action (OPA) program has opened the 2025 Invasive Phragmites Control Fund (IPCF) for proposals. The fund, supported by an $11 million investment from the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, aims to help communities like Norfolk County tackle the spread of Phragmites, a destructive invasive pla...
Dec 18, 2024
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: New affordable student housing opens in Simcoe
The Haldimand Norfolk Housing Corporation (HNHC) is proud to announce the grand opening of its Affordable Student Housing project in Simcoe. Developed in partnership with Fanshawe College, Norfolk County Council, and the Service Manager, the project has transformed two social housing units at 77/79 Oakwood Avenue into ...
Dec 18, 2024
Cayuga man faces several charges related to sexual assault
A 31-year-old Haldimand County man is facing sexual assault charges. Late last month, police launched a historical sexual assault investigation, where it was reported that several sexual assaults took place from May to November of this year. 31-year-old Joseph Caruso of Cayuga has been charged with: Sexual Assault (thr...
Dec 17, 2024
Norfolk County Archives puts history at your fingers tips as the digitize local newspapers
A new online database puts a lot of local history at your fingertips. The Norfolk County Archives has launched their new online newspaper database. Since 2022, the Archives team have been digitizing local newspapers using advanced scanning technology, scanning over 60,000 pages of local newspapers. The database offers ...
Dec 17, 2024
With chaos in Ottawa, the country's Premiers come together to show "Team Canada" approach
While chaos took place in Ottawa, all 13 of the country's premier came together for a press conference to show a "Team Canada" approach. The premiers said the federal government needs to do a better job of working with them on how to combat these tariffs and said there will be a premiers' mission to Washingto...
Dec 17, 2024
Terry Fox set to appear on next $5 bank note
Terry Fox is set to appear on the next $5 bank note. Fox is set to replace Sir Wilfrid Laurier. Laurier will now move to the $50 note. It was not revealed what would be happening with William Lyon Mackenzie King who is currently on the $50 bill. In 2020 the Bank of Canada held public consultations, and Fox was among ei...
Dec 17, 2024
Final Farmers' Market of 2024 is this week
The last Simcoe Farmers Market of 2024 is this week. They will be doing a Vendor Draw, so while shopping make sure to put your name in. Christmas music will be playing that day as well. The Market's next day open will be January 9th. Written by Matt LeBlanc
Dec 17, 2024
Mail service resumes today, expect delivery delays for the rest of December going into January
Mail service resumes today. Canada Post says it will be on a first-in, first-out basis as they start working through the mail and parcels trapped in the system since the strike began on November 15th. Service guarantees are suspended as the company ramps up operations. Canada Post says Canadians should expect delivery ...
Dec 17, 2024
Freeland resigns and slams Trudeau's "costly political gimmicks", LeBlanc sworn in as new finance Minister
Dominic LeBlanc, a longtime ally of Trudeau, has been sworn in as the new finance minister. LeBlanc, who has known Trudeau since childhood, has been a trusted figure in the cabinet and was recently involved in drafting a major border security plan to address U.S. concerns about drugs and migrants. Chrystia Freeland's r...
Dec 17, 2024
Government releases fall economic statement - highlights investments in child care and dental care but comes with higher deficit
Chrystia Freeland's surprise resignation as Canada's finance minister has added political drama to the federal government's latest fall economic statement, which reveals a $61.9-billion deficit for 2023-24. Freeland announced her decision on social media just hours before the statement's release on Monday, leaving Gove...
Dec 17, 2024
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: The mild weather won't last forever - make sure you are ready for winter weather out on the roads
One thing that goes hand in hand with winter weather is cars breaking down - and they always seem to do so at the worst time imaginable. If you're out driving around, CAA suggests that you always keep an emergency kit in your car in case you break down somewhere. Kevin Puckett from CAA says there's a few things that yo...
Dec 17, 2024
The Norfolk County 48
Here's what's going on in Norfolk County over the next 48 hours. Stuff to do: Today: ABEL Enterprises Special Edition Bingo Night! In addition to the usual over $3000 in cash prizes with a jackpot of $1000, players will also receive a ticket on the way in for fun draws featuring prizes from local businesses. The doors ...
Dec 16, 2024
Bring in non-perishable food items or toiletries and have your fines waved this week at the NCPL
It's Fine Free Week at the Norfolk County Public Library. From December 16th to the 21st, Library users can clear overdue fines by donating non-perishable food items or toiletries. These items will be distributed to local food banks and the Little Free Pantry initiative. Fees for damaged or lost items are not eligible....
Dec 16, 2024
A special night on the ice in Port Dover
A big crowd showed up the 2nd Annual Luke Johnson Teddy Bears for Hope game yesterday in Port Dover. A special ceremony took place to honour Luke and retire his #2 jersey from Port Dover Minor Hockey. Luke's #2 banner now hangs high in the Shipyard as well. The Port Dover Sailors lost in overtime 7-6 to the Glanbrook R...
Dec 16, 2024
Transforming lives: Meet Holmes House's new addiction psychiatrist
Norfolk General Hospital (NGH) and Holmes House in Simcoe have welcomed Dr. Tanya Hauck as their new Addiction Psychiatrist. Dr. Hauck specializes in treating concurrent disorders-when addiction and mental health challenges occur together. These issues require specialized care, as individuals with substance use disorde...
Dec 16, 2024
A Healthy Holiday season - What to do when those snide comments about food come out during Christmas dinner
"Are you having another plate?" "Is that all you're eating?" "A vegetable wouldn't kill you." Those lines are dropped at many gatherings over the next two weeks. While some can shrug them off, for others, it's a punch to the gut. Dietitian Emily Szatrowski says many people struggle with th...
Dec 16, 2024
HN Housing Corporation and Fanshawe College bringing affordable student housing to Simcoe
A ribbon cutting ceremony is taking place tomorrow as new Affordable Student Housing has been announced in Simcoe. It's part of a partnership between the Haldimand Norfolk Housing Corporation and Fanshawe College. Two legacy social housing units on Oakwood Avenue in Simcoe will now be student housing. The housing for u...
Dec 16, 2024
It's back to work at Canada Post on Tuesday
Canada Post will resume operations at 8 a.m. local time on Tuesday, Dec. 17, after the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) ordered striking workers back to their jobs. Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon directed the CIRB to intervene if no deal was reached before the end of the year. After two days of hearings, the ...
Dec 16, 2024
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Festive RIDE program kicking into high gear in Norfolk and around Ontario
The Festive RIDE campaign is kicking into high gear as we approach Christmas and New Years. The Festive RIDE campaign is an annual police enforcement and education initiative aimed at taking impaired drivers off Ontario roads during the holiday season.
Dec 16, 2024
Teddy Bear Toss: Sailors hit the ice for Luke Johnson tribute
Get ready for an action-packed Sunday at the Port Dover Arena! The hometown Sailors face off against the Glanbrook Rangers at 2 p.m. in the highly anticipated Teddy Bear Toss game, honouring the late Luke Johnson. Fans are encouraged to bring teddy bears to toss onto the ice when the Sailors score their first goal. All...
Dec 13, 2024
Canada steps in to resolve CUPW and Canada Post dispute
The ongoing conflict between the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) and Canada Post has reached a critical stage, causing major disruptions across Canada. Essential services, including parcel deliveries for medications and official documents, have been affected, impacting small businesses, charities, seniors, and ...
Dec 13, 2024
A REMINDER: The Grinch is coming to Jarvis tomorrow
The Jarvis Light Up ULTIMATE Fireworks & Carnival takes place tomorrow. Elf Lisa Nigh says it's a fireworks display you won't want to miss. To read more about the Jarvis Light Up and the Grinch, you can hear our extended chat with Nigh here. Written by Matt LeBlanc
Dec 13, 2024
Bikers are set to flock down to Dover despite the cold weather
It's a chilly Friday the 13th. Despite the weather, there will be bikes from all over Ontario still braving the trip down to Port Dover today. Gamble added you can't control other drivers behaviours on the road, but you can always control yours. Written by Matt LeBlanc
Dec 13, 2024
Ford Government introducing Legislation to allow police and municipalities to crack down on homeless encampments
Ontario is introducing legislation that will help municipalities clear homeless encampments out of public parks and spaces. Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Paul Calandra said the government has heard concerns from the public. An additional $75.5 million will also be invested toward homelessness prevention progra...
Dec 13, 2024
Norfolk OPP, Paramedics, and Fire Department teaming up for Holiday Food Drive
The Norfolk OPP is working side by side with Norfolk County Paramedic Services and the Norfolk County Fire Department for their Holiday Food Drive. The event will take place at the Real Canadian Superstore tomorrow (Saturday) from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Shoppers will have the opportunity to purchase pre-made bags o...
Dec 13, 2024
GST holiday kicks off on Saturday
The federal government's GST holiday kicks in tomorrow (Saturday) The tax break applies to goods including prepared foods and restaurant meals; children's clothing; diapers; footwear; car seats and toys; print books and newspapers; and Christmas trees. Small retailers say they're preparing as best as they can for what ...
Dec 13, 2024
Three projects being looked at for Amplify Norfolk funding - two concerts and a big wrestling event
Although council will need to confirm their decisions next week, three projects in the county received preliminary approval in council chambers for the 2025 Amplify Norfolk program. These three projects were shortlisted by council from a longer list of proposals, though not without some debate. Two of the approved even...
Dec 13, 2024
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Keeping things calm and cool for the kids this Christmas
Celebrating the holiday season can be merry and bright when it's managed right. Occupational therapist Nicole Captain says this can be a stressful times for kids but you can manage by keeping things simple, sticking to structure, by going back to basics and by being flexible.
Dec 13, 2024
No road closures, big crowds: Stay safe at Port Dover's Friday the 13th
Visitors heading to Port Dover for Friday the 13th tomorrow are being urged to stay safe on the roads as cold weather sets in. While colder months usually bring smaller crowds, drivers should still expect heavier traffic in and around Port Dover. Motorcyclists and drivers are reminded to follow all traffic laws and rem...
Dec 12, 2024
Spot the trouble: Inspect Christmas trees for invasive bugs this season
The holiday season is here, and the Invasive Species Centre is urging everyone to check their natural decorations, such and Christmas trees and wreaths, for invasive pests, egg masses, and plants. Christmas trees should be inspected for pests and egg masses laid by the invasive spongy moth and spotted lanternfly. Spong...
Dec 12, 2024