Event Year: 2025

In the dynamic landscape of business, the spark of innovation often finds its brightest glow among the young and ambitious minds shaping the future. Recognizing the immense potential and entrepreneurial spirit within the community, Bruce Telecom proudly sponsors The Young Entrepreneur Award at the Kincardine Chamber Awards, presented by the Kincardine Chamber of Commerce at the Ainsdale Golf Course in Kincardine.

The Bruce Telecom Young Entrepreneur Award is a special recognition, designed to honor individuals under the age of 35 who have not only ventured into the world of entrepreneurship but have demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, innovation in business skills, proactive employee and customer relations, and community leadership.

As a local telecommunications company that is invested in community growth and development, Bruce Telecom sees the importance of nurturing the next generation of business leaders. By sponsoring the Young Entrepreneur Award, we aim to celebrate and support the innovative minds who are making a significant impact on the local business landscape.

This year the nominees for this award were:

Jocelyn Leidy
Jocelyn Leidy is a passionate music educator and performer with eight years of experience, teaching over 60 students weekly at her two studios in Kincardine and Ripley. She founded Jocelyn Leidy’s School of Music five years ago, growing it from just 12 students into a thriving community hub offering lessons in multiple instruments. Jocelyn is deeply committed to fostering confidence and musical skills through tailored lessons and community performances. Her dedication to accessible music education and community involvement has helped nurture the next generation of local musicians.

Olivia Hinchberger
Olivia Hinchberger is the owner of Word Squirrel Books. After surviving a stroke at 23 that left her visually impaired, she turned adversity into motivation, demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and strong leadership in building her business. Since opening her store in 2025, Olivia has innovated by creating inclusive community programs, hosting free book clubs and author events, and fostering meaningful customer relationships that prioritize connection and accessibility. Her proactive approach to business and community engagement exemplifies true entrepreneurial spirit, showing that success comes from dedication to community and serving others.

Schooner Events
Schooner Events Incorporated is a locally owned business featuring a catering company, a food truck for public and private events, and Schooner’s Bodega Café in Ripley. After more than a decade in the hospitality industry, the founders channeled their passion for great food, community, and connection into building their own venture. Schooner Events has quickly become a local favorite, known for creating a welcoming space and memorable experiences. Their journey reflects dedication, creativity, and a strong belief in following your passion—even when the path is uncertain.

This award is about recognizing the dedication, passion, and community-minded spirit that young entrepreneurs bring to their ventures. Bruce Telecom understands that building a successful business goes beyond financial achievements; it encompasses creating a positive workplace culture, fostering strong customer relationships, and contributing meaningfully to the community. The winner of this years award was Schooner Events

Founded in 2015, the Bruce County Playhouse is a not-for-profit professional summer theatre company dedicated to fostering young talent and to producing and promoting excellent theatre that provokes, inspires and entertains the people of Bruce County.  We believe that a community with a strong artistic voice makes for a stronger community.

Again this year, Bruce Telecom is proud to be a sponsor of the Playhouse as it creates meaningful connections with our Bruce County communities and surrounding areas.

We were thrilled to attend opening night at the Bruce County Playhouse for the gala performance of The Beaver Club!

This laugh-out-loud production followed four distinctly different women in their sixties as they set off on a road trip from Toronto to Dildo, Newfoundland. What starts as a simple journey quickly turns into a hilarity-filled adventure, with plenty of unexpected detours along the way. With lots of time together on the road, the women reflect on their pasts, navigate their presents, and dream about what the future might still hold.

Through madcap moments, shared stories, and a few heartfelt surprises, secrets emerge and friendships deepen. The Beaver Club is a wonderful reminder that no matter your stage in life, new beginnings are always possible and that a strong circle of friends can help you overcome just about anything.

You can visit their website to see all their upcoming live performances and to purchase tickets.

On Friday, July 18, 2025, Bruce Telecom was proud to support and take part in the 17th Annual Community Living Kincardine & District (CLKD) Charity Golf Classic. Once again, the tournament exceeded expectations and showcased the incredible spirit of our community.

It was a fantastic day filled with sunshine, laughter, great food, prizes, and meaningful fundraising. With 116 golfers on the course and more than $21,000 raised, we are incredibly grateful to the community sponsors, participants, and supporters who helped make the day such a success.

As a long-time supporter of this event, Bruce Telecom has proudly sponsored the putting contest for many years and it’s one of our favourite parts of the day. Working alongside members of Community Living to run the contest is always a blast and a highlight for our team, filled with smiles, friendly competition, and plenty of fun on the green.

As the largest fundraising event for Community Living Kincardine & District, the Charity Golf Classic plays a vital role in supporting essential programs and services. Over the past 17 years, this event has helped create opportunities that build independence through social and life skills, job readiness, employment support, and more. Funds raised this year will go directly toward enhancing programs for people with developmental disabilities, individuals aged 55+, and everyone supported by CLKD.

At Bruce Telecom, we are proud to stand alongside Community Living Kincardine & District and our fellow community partners in supporting initiatives that strengthen inclusion, opportunity, and connection right here at home.

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, Bruce County Comicon took over the Southampton Coliseum and Annex — and what an incredible day it was. As one of the main sponsors, Bruce Telecom was proud to support and take part in Bruce County’s biggest pop culture event, welcoming fans of all ages for a full day of excitement, creativity, and community connection.

With over 25,000 square feet of shopping and entertainment space, the event was buzzing from start to finish. More than 200 vendors filled the venue, offering everything from comics, collectibles, and vintage toys to video games, art, sports cards, and trading cards. No matter your fandom, there truly was something for everyone under one roof.

Bruce County Comicon proved once again that it’s an event designed for the whole family. Fans enjoyed meeting celebrity guests, checking out incredible displays from professional cosplayers, snapping photos, and spending time in the free play arcade. Local food vendors kept attendees fueled throughout the day, adding even more community spirit to the experience.

One of the most memorable highlights for us at Bruce Telecom was having a special visit from the Optimus Prime replica truck at our Tiverton Bruce Telecom building. Built with legal permission from Hasbro, this incredible project is led by Joe Fiduccia, an ordinary dad with an extraordinary goal: to inspire his son, and others, to believe that dreams are possible through hard work, and to always have the courage to rise up against bullies and self-doubt.

Optimus Prime and Joe have traveled all across North America, appearing at events, raising tens of thousands of dollars for charities, and granting unforgettable VIP experiences through private wishes. Their mission goes far beyond pop culture, they are dedicated to empowering students and spreading a strong anti-bullying message around the world, using an iconic character that generations continue to look up to. It was an honour for Bruce Telecom to be part of sharing that message with our community.

At Bruce Telecom, we believe in supporting events that bring people together, celebrate creativity, and make a positive impact in our communities. We’re proud to have been a main sponsor of Bruce County Comicon 2025 and to help keep our community connected, whether through technology or shared experiences like this one.

If you want to learn more about the upcoming 2026 Comicon event, you can visit their website here: https://www.brucecountycomicon.com/

The first Lake Huron Fishing Club fish enhancement project was the construction of a Chinook salmon production facility in the Town of Port Elgin. To fund the construction and ongoing operation of this facility, the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby was established in 1983. Now in its 41st year, the derby has grown into a highly anticipated multi-day event and a cornerstone fundraiser for the Lake Huron Fishing Club.

Over the years, the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to support two fish hatcheries operated by the Lake Huron Fishing Club, as well as a variety of community and conservation initiatives.

The 2025 Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby was held from July 25 to August 3, continuing its strong tradition of participation and community support. Approximately 1,400 tickets were sold for this year’s event, reflecting another successful year for the popular derby.

Garrett Billing of Pike Bay set the early pace on the first day of the derby, catching a 19.04 lb, 37-inch Chinook Salmon within the first hour and a half of competition. The fish was weighed in at the Lion’s Head Marina weigh station and remained the largest salmon recorded at that location throughout the derby. Billing also claimed the daily catch prize for July 25, 2025.

The overall winning salmon of the 2025 Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby was weighed in at Wiarton. Dave Wolley secured first place with a 20.86 lb, 36.25-inch Chinook Salmon. The award for Biggest Trout went to Jonathan Dow, who caught a 23.28 lb, 35-inch Lake Trout, weighed in at Kincardine.

Bruce Telecom was proud to be a silver sponsor of the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby and the sponsor of the internet and phone lines at the derby weigh stations, helping ensure reliable connectivity throughout the event. Bruce Telecom is pleased to support this long-standing local derby that gives back to both the community and Lake Huron’s fisheries.

For more information about the Chantry Chinook Classic Salmon Derby and upcoming events, visit their website.

At Bruce Telecom, we were proud to support the 2025 Kincardine Home and Garden Expo as the event’s Internet Sponsor, helping keep the community connected throughout a very successful weekend at the Davidson Centre.

Nearly 2,000 people attended the Expo, which took place April 26–27 and was hosted by the Kincardine and District Chamber of Commerce. The strong turnout highlighted the community’s interest in home improvement, local business, and regional growth.

The event showcased about 40 exhibitors on the arena floor, featuring everything from blinds, appliances, and furniture to decks, irrigation systems, siding, and landscaping solutions. An additional 25 exhibitors filled the gymnasium marketplace, offering arts and crafts, specialty treats and spices, as well as information from a number of community groups and organizations.

A new highlight this year was the Saturday Speaker Series, which included informative presentations from Bruce County on Additional Residential Units, Small Meadows Community and its proposed tiny home development in Kincardine, the Kincardine Environmental Action Network, and Kincardine Fire and Emergency Services. These sessions encouraged important conversations around housing, sustainability, and community safety.

As a locally rooted company, Bruce Telecom was thrilled to be part of an event that supports local businesses, fosters innovation, and strengthens community connections. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the 2025 Kincardine Home and Garden Expo such a memorable success.

Crime Stoppers is a community-based program that combines the police, media, and members of the public in a co-operative effort to solve crime. Crime Stoppers encourage members of our community to call their toll-free 1-800-222- TIPS, (8477) phone number or submit a secure web tip with information about any crimes that have been committed or are about to occur, including the whereabouts of wanted persons, stolen property, or illegal narcotics. This information is forwarded anonymously to investigators who then respond directly back to Crime Stoppers of Grey Bruce.

In today’s interconnected world, effective communication is paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities. Bruce Telecom has been a sponsor of this organization for years now by supplying their internet and wireless services. This local community organization not only showcases the company’s commitment to social responsibility but also highlights the numerous benefits it brings to the community it serves. By maintaining the infrastructure and capabilities of Crime Stoppers, Bruce Telecom is actively investing in a safer and more resilient community. This sponsorship directly contributes to the efficiency of Crime Stoppers Grey Bruce, helping prevent crime and brings perpetrators to justice.

Visit their website today for more information about their organization.

Each summer, the Kincardine Lighthouse Blues Festival transforms our lakeside town into a hub of incredible live music, community spirit, and good vibes and this year was no exception! Bruce Telecom was proud to once again serve as the headline sponsor for the 2025 festival, celebrating one of Kincardine’s most anticipated weekends of the year.

From July’s sunshine to the sounds of blues filling the streets, this event truly captures what makes our community special. Connection, creativity, and local pride.

The Lighthouse Blues Festival isn’t just about amazing performances on the main stage behind the Bruce Steakhouse (though that concert is always a highlight!). It’s also about the free events take place throughout the weekend — from pop-up performances and jam sessions to family-friendly fun that welcomes everyone downtown to take part in the celebration.

On the Saturday of the event, Bruce Telecom joined in the excitement at the street festival where our team spent the afternoon connecting with residents and visitors alike. We handed out some free goodies, shared a few laughs, and enjoyed being part of an event that brings people together. We also had a free face painter for the kids to come get some fun designs and enjoy the day with a creative design on their face.

As a proudly local company, supporting the Lighthouse Blues Festival is our way of giving back to the community that supports us all year long. It’s always inspiring to see downtown Kincardine buzzing with music, smiles, and hometown pride. It’s a reminder that when we come together, great things happen.

You can check out all the information regarding the Kincardine Lighthouse Blues Festival on their website

At Bruce Telecom, we believe in the power of connection—whether it’s through fast, reliable internet or through meaningful partnerships that strengthen the communities we serve. That’s why we’re proud to be a sponsor of PRANCE (Pegasus Riding Association Nurturing Challenged Equestrians) in Port Elgin.

PRANCE is a non-profit organization that provides therapeutic equestrian programs for individuals with physical, emotional, and developmental challenges. For over 25 years, PRANCE has been a beacon of support in Bruce County, helping people of all ages build confidence, physical strength, and emotional well-being through the healing power of horseback riding.

Their dedicated team of volunteers and certified instructors work with specially trained horses to create a safe and supportive environment where riders can thrive. The programs at PRANCE go beyond riding—they offer a sense of inclusion, connection, and purpose. Horse-back riding has long been recognized as a therapeutic treatment with many physical, cognitive and social benefits. This is why Bruce Telecom sponsors this program yearly. They offer a multitude of different programs with amazing benefits for everyone.

Just like PRANCE, Bruce Telecom is rooted in the values of community, connection, and care. As a local communications provider, we’re not just here to deliver phone, internet, and TV services—we’re here to invest in the people and places that make this region strong.

Supporting PRANCE means supporting a healthier, more connected community. Their work fosters relationships, promotes well-being, and empowers individuals who face unique challenges—all things we believe in deeply.

Every year, McDonald’s Canada franchisees and crew across the country celebrate McHappy Day, an annual day of community giving in support of Ronald McDonald Houses and other local children’s charities.

McHappy Day continues to play a large role in providing Ronald McDonald House Newfoundland and Labrador with the funds needed to support our House and the families they serve. Since McHappy Day was first celebrated in 1977, McDonald’s Canada, its franchisees and generous guests, have contributed nearly $66 million for Ronald McDonald Houses and local Canadian children’s charities.

This year, Bruce Telecom donated a raffle bag and had staff volunteering at the Kincardine McDonalds location in support of McHappy Day. We want to say thanks to Connor, Maria, Kayla, Shannon, Teri and Michaela for volunteering their time for the day to help out. In Kincardine, the event included a wheel of prizes, 50-50 draw, raffle, book sale and yard sale with all the proceeds going towards McHappy Day!

The annual fundraiser in Kincardine raised $20,000 for Ronald McDonald House in London.

Every year, Bruce Telecom is a proud Platinum sponsor of the Southampton Marine Heritage Festival. This three-day annual festival celebrates the rich Marine History in Southampton on the shores of Lake Huron. The event includes Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre tours, a Bike Rally, a Ghost Walk, a Pancake breakfast, Children’s Gold Hunt, and the highlight Cardboard Boat races. There is also a fire fighters fish fry, children’s entertainment, and live music all weekend long! This free family festival is hosted by volunteers from the Marine Heritage Society and Propeller Club of Saugeen Shores.

Bruce Telecom takes part in the Gold Dig contest for the kids. The beach is lined with gold nuggets and they must find as much gold as they can in their time limit. After their competition, each kid gets their gold nuggets weighed, which then based on the weight of gold collected they get an awesome prize along with a certificate signed by Captain Wayne Sparrow!

We are proud to sponsor such an incredible weekend in Southampton, Ontario. We are also so thankful not only for the festival for giving us the opportunity, but also to all the other sponsors that contribute to the event in order to keep the festivities free for all to enjoy. Without the support of everyone, it wouldn’t be possible!

We are always so excited to join and support this event yearly to support the Southampton community and have some fun while we do it!

You can check out their website for more information on the festival!

At Bruce Telecom, we believe that supporting our community means more than just delivering reliable internet, phone, and TV services—it means showing up, giving back, and celebrating what makes our towns unique.

That’s why we’re proud to once again be a sponsor of the Kincardine Scottish Festival—one of the region’s most vibrant and cherished summer events. The Kincardine Scottish Festival is a celebration of culture, tradition, music and community. They also showcase local talent and attract visitors to our towns, and give us all a reason to come out, connect and celebrate.

Our sponsorship goes beyond monetary support. Bruce Telecom provides free public Wi-Fi throughout the festival grounds, helping visitors stay connected as they capture and share their experiences. Whether you’re snapping a photo of the pipe bands, posting a video of the highland dancers, or finding your way around the festival map- we have you covered.

We also offered dedicated Wi-Fi for vendors, so local businesses and artisans at the festival could stay connected and process digital transactions smoothly all weekend long. Supporting the economic success of our local vendors is a priority for us, and we’re proud to play a small role in helping them thrive at this amazing event.

We are so grateful for the organizers, volunteers, performers and everyone who works hard every year to bring this incredible event to our small community. We are proud to be a small part of it.

Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, performers, and everyone who helps bring this incredible event to life. We’re proud to be part of it.