The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) is excited to announce that following the success of their “Off the Wall” style fundraiser in 2021 they are bringing it back for Summer 2022 with the theme of “Year of the Land or Lake”.

The BCA is calling on artists for submissions of a donated 12” x 12” painting for this annual exhibition. Artists are asked to email Hello@bayfieldarts.ca for more details and a Submission Form.

“In 2021, we held our first very successful event. We received donations of over 50 paintings and welcomed close to 350 visitors during this two-day event. We listened to our artist and guest suggestions and have made some exciting changes for 2022,” said Leslee Squirrell, president of the BCA.

“Year of the Land or Lake” is a fundraising event for the BCA with proceeds from ticket sales supporting the organization’s programs and activities. This is accomplished through the sale of four ticket categories, each with a specific time slot for selection of a painting “Off the Wall” beginning with the Golden Ticket.

The event takes place over two or more days. Day one offers the general public an opportunity to view this collection of donated works at no charge. An exclusive reception will be held for Golden and Silver Ticket holders. The paintings will be available for online viewing in a printable exhibition guide which features information about the event, images of all artwork and an artist introduction.

When asked, why should artists donate their works to this cause, Squirrell said, “We rely on charitable donations, grants, workshops and events to make our success possible. Bayfield is a resort town on Lake Huron. We attract a large number of local residents and vacationing visitors from all over Canada and the USA. This exhibition is an opportunity to have wonderful exposure for your work while helping the BCA in its endeavor to become a leading visual art centre in rural southwestern Ontario.”

The BCA is a registered charity committed to furthering the appreciation of the visual arts, one experience at a time..

FOOD BANK SHARES MORE THANKS

Assisting people in the community facing food insecurity is a year-round commitment for the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) but the volunteers don’t do it alone.

“The generosity of our community is indeed impressive,” said Terry Henderson, president of the BAFB Board of Directors. “We are so very blessed to live in this caring part of the world!”

This week, Henderson would like to send a major shout out of thanks to the congregation of Trinity St. James Anglican Church, for continuing to graciously host the food bank.

“BAFB is now completely a community run charity service, yet Trinity St. James kindly continues to house us at absolutely no cost. We are most extremely grateful for this generous sharing of their facility,” said Henderson.

Henderson would also like to offer a note of thanks to the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre, whose assistance each month is essential in providing a full variety of foods for the BAFB clients, especially the fresh produce, dairy products and meats.

For anyone who would like to support BAFB with a monetary gift, there are a few options available. Cheques can be mailed to: Bayfield Area Food Bank, 10 Keith Cres., Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0. An e-transfer can be made through BAFB’s gmail account: bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com or a donation can be received on-line through the www.canadahelps.org website. All donations of $20 or more will be receipted for tax purposes. BAFB is a registered charity with CRA. Anyone who would like a receipt, is asked to ensure that their name and address are clearly provided along with the donation.

Anyone in need of assistance at this time, is asked to please reach out through either an email to bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com or phone/text 519 955-7444. All enquiries are handled with complete confidentiality.

Collection bins for non-perishable items can currently be found on the north porch by the Parish Hall at Trinity St. James Anglican Church and in the foyer of the Bayfield Public Library on Main Street (during opening hours). The library is the best place to donate if items are in danger of freezing, as the donations are kept indoors until a BAFB volunteer can collect them.

SPOONER’S LANE LIGHT TUNNEL SPARKS MARRIAGE PROPOSAL

After three years of planning, Central Huron’s Community Improvement Co-ordinator, Angela Smith finally turned on the lights in Clinton’s Light Tunnel on New Year’s Eve and it immediately garnered the attention she hoped it would.

“The public absolutely loves it and after being on for only two days, a young man proposed in the Spooner’s Lane Light Tunnel! It was a magical scene. He staged it with pillows and blankets on the park bench, candles added to the ambiance! Thank goodness we had a light dusting of snow to make it perfect!” said Smith. “I understand that the bride-to-be had no idea and was completely stunned. The groom had seen my post on Facebook about the tunnel during construction, and then the follow up announcement that the lights had been installed and presumably thought it would be the perfect place to begin the next leg of their journey together.”

The newly engaged couple are Spencer Yearley and Amber Weber, of Exeter. Yearley enlisted the help of his future mother-in-law to stage the surprise proposal.

The Spooner’s Lane Light Tunnel was constructed by Wozniak Welding in Vanastra. Funded by Central Huron, Huron County Economic Development and My Main Street (Fed Dev and Canadian Urban Institute).

Currently, the metal structure is covered in Christmas lights but next month Smith is hoping to install interactive LED lights. This will allow the colors to change for special holidays such as, pink for Valentine’s Day, green for St. Patrick’s Day and red for Canada Day.

“There are many options in lighting technology that I am exploring,” said Smith. “One that is intriguing is that as you walk through the tunnel the lights will change as you go, change to the beat of music etc.”

Smith envisions the tunnel being used as a location for special occasions or a photoshoot spot.

And might a certain couple choose to have an intimate wedding there as well? The newly engaged Yearley and Weber haven’t ruled it out as a location and Smith who recently got licensed to perform weddings is certainly open to the idea!

Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) and Huron County Library are pleased to co-sponsor the Winter 2022 “Virtual Saturdays at the Library” speaker series

All are welcome to join the ZOOM meeting on Saturday, Jan. 22 at 10:30 a.m. The January speaker will be Constable James Stanley, OPP. His topic will be “Don’t be the Next Victim” and will cover such issues as trending scams, common scam techniques, how to detect a scam, and what to do if you become a victim.

Savvy con artists are creating more and more sophisticated scams designed to trick unsuspecting and trusting victims into giving them money. Examples include: phishing emails and texts, fake online shopping ads, prize notifications, and emergency scams among others.

Constable Stanley is the Community Safety Officer/Media Relations Officer for the Huron County OPP Detachment. He has been in policing for twenty-one years. Prior to his policing career, Constable Stanley was with the Canada Border Services Agency in Windsor, ON.

Constable Stanley’s message should be of great interest to many in the community.

Anyone wishing to participate in the ZOOM meeting is asked to pre-register by clicking on the link provided on the FOBL website: www.fobl.ca

SAMMIE HOPING FOR LIFE INDOORS

Don’t let the picture fool you, he’s bigger than he looks! Sammie was found wandering in one of the parks and kind residents were feeding this very hungry boy. They grew concerned for him as the weather turned colder and he was trapped, neutered and given all his age-appropriate shots. It was at this time that his caregivers realized he wasn’t interested in living the life of an outdoor cat anymore. As a result, they brought this very loveable character to the Rescue. He has adjusted well and loves being petted.

Volunteers believe that this sweet boy has known people and may have had a home in the past but for whatever hand fate has dealt him he found himself outside, luckily, he wandered into the right place and met the right people. A shout out from the Rescue volunteers this week to Chris for getting one more, sweet baby off the streets!

Sammie has adjusted well and loves being petted. He is not intimidated by the other cats at the shelter but would very much like his own family and his own home.

Please email for more information, bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com, if you have room in your home for Sammie.

The adoption fee is now $200. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Donations are also always appreciated. E-transfers can be sent to the Rescue’s email or email to arrange for a drop off or pick up of donations. Cheques can be mailed to Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines, P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.

WATER DAMAGE

Just before 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15, Huron Hospice experienced a burst water pipe which caused significant damage to the residence located just west of Clinton. Although the cause has not yet been determined, it appears that the cold temperatures may have impacted the sprinkler system water line. The local fire department arrived very quickly and assisted with the immediate cleanup.

Within 24 hours, Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth received the three residents who needed to be transferred from Huron Hospice. An assessment of the damage has begun so that reparation can be completed as soon as possible. The affected areas include a resident bedroom, kitchen, hallways and the great room. At this early stage, it is unknown when the residence will be fully functioning again, but the team at Huron Hospice is committed to a speedy repair so that they can return to providing compassionate care, close to home.

Executive Director, Willy Van Klooster said, “We wish to thank the Central Huron Fire Department, Rotary Hospice of Stratford Perth, and our dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Their immediate response in our time of need shows that we truly live in a compassionate community.”

OPTIMIST CLUB

People often ask if they can add an engraved brick to the path around the Splash Pad in Clan Gregor Square and members of the Optimist Club of Bayfield are pleased to announce that there is further opportunity to have a name added to the circle in 2022.

The engraved pavers in Clan Gregor Square are a reminder of how great area residents and visitors are when it comes to supporting such projects as the Playground and the Splash Pad.

“In Memoriam” stones for loved ones as well as “just because” stones can be ordered with the work being done on site later in 2022 using the same two brick sizes that are already installed around the Splash Pad. The cost of these engraved bricks will be medium, $90; and large, $110. The plan is to have the bricks engraved in late May just prior to opening the Slash Pad.

Anyone with an interest in adding a brick can contact Mike Dixon via email at mikedixon@tcc.on.ca or by calling 519 955-5254 for further information.

PODCAST SERIES

To inspire travel and recall memories along Ontario’s West Coast, Mandy Sinclair launched an eight-part podcast series entitled, “Postcards from Huron County” yesterday (Jan. 11). New episodes of the podcast will be released every two weeks until Apr. 19.

Host and recently-returned local, Sinclair, has created an eight-part podcast series that takes listeners on an intimate journey to Huron County, traditionally the territories of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee and Neutral peoples. Each episode delves into an aspect of the heritage and often lesser known history of the area as told to Sinclair in conversation with historians and community members who have a close connection to each subject.

Guests and topics featured in the series include Jenna McGuire on the Historic Saugeen Metis; board members sharing memories from their years volunteering with the Clinton Spring Fair; Sinead Cox speaking about the Home Children; David Yates on prohibition in Huron County; and a director and local who inspired characters in the Blyth Festival’s Wing Night at the Boot.

“I grew up in Huron County and, after spending time in Morocco, returned to the area in July 2020. I began exploring the region’s nature trails and cycling through its small communities. As a naturally curious person, questions about the area’s history started to emerge. By chance, I stumbled upon a sign indicating the way to the Point Farms Hotel at Point Farms Provincial Park. The hotel’s immensity and former glory days amazed me, but I left wanting to know more – who stayed there? Where did they come from? What did they do while there? What did they eat? And, so began the idea for Postcards from Huron County.”

People are invited to preview the trailer of Postcards from Huron County on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts and Stitcher. One link to the trailer can be found here: redcircle.com

Postcards from Huron County is made possible with funding from the Huron Heritage Fund and Community Futures Huron – Community Projects Initiative and the support of Clint Mackie, Andrew Bouck, Nick Vinnicombe, and Mark Hussey at Faux Pop Media.

LIFE AT THE RINK

The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena will be closed from now through to Jan. 26 respecting the current lockdown currently in effect.

“We look forward to reopening and getting back together as a community,” said Jeff Kish, director of Marketing for the Bayfield Community Centre.

Visit www.bayfieldcommunitycentre occasionally to get new updates please.

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the congregation of Trinity St. James Anglican Church in Bayfield has decided to move services back online for the foreseeable future.

To learn more visit trinitystjamesbayfield.ca

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

In their efforts to promote community well being, the Session of Knox Bayfield have decided to resume online-only worship services.

All are invited to join them on Sundays at 11 a.m. on ZOOM.

The Session will reassess the situation in February.

To learn more visit pccweb.ca/knoxbayfieldpc/ for a ZOOM link, a link to the Knox YouTube page or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KnoxBayfield.

Rev. Lisa Dolson will be leading a new Book Study on Tuesdays at 2 p.m. starting Feb. 15th. The book discussion will be on the book, “The Women of the Bible Speak: The Wisdom of 16 Women and their Lessons for Today”, by author Shannon Bream. Please contact the minister at 519 955-2158 or revlisa.knoxbayfield@cloud.com, for the ZOOM link.

UNITED CHURCH

The Church Council of St. Andrews United Church in Bayfield has decided that the church facility will be closed to all groups and activities until the end of the month at which time ongoing closure will be re-evaluated based on public health information at that time.

This is an attempt to be pro-active, while protecting the health and well being of their congregation and their community, in the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the new Omicron strain of the virus.

SUMMER JOBS

Member of Parliament for Huron-Bruce, Ben Lobb invites local businesses and organizations to apply for funding under the Canada Summer Jobs program. Applications close on Jan. 25th. Those interested can apply online through Service Canada: www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-summer-jobs.html

This past year saw over 300 summer employment positions created by 224 successful applicants in Huron-Bruce. Applicants for 2022 should receive word about their funding starting in April.

WORLD WETLANDS DAY OBSERVED FIRST WEDNESDAY IN FEBRUARY

Property owners in Ausable Bayfield watersheds, and people from around the world, are completing projects to protect and enhance wetlands and reduce flooding.

Every year, on Feb. 2, the world observes World Wetlands Day. The theme for World Wetlands Day in 2022 is “Wetlands Action for People and Nature”. This year’s #WorldWetlandsDay focuses on taking actions to protect and restore wetlands.

“Community members who wrote our local Conservation Strategy gave us a vision of healthy watersheds where our needs and the needs of the natural environment are in balance,” said Wetlands Specialist with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), Angela Van Niekerk. “This year’s World Wetlands Day theme of taking action for people and nature reflects that balance of human needs and the need to build and enhance our natural green infrastructure including wetlands.”

Looking ahead to World Wetlands Day, ABCA has prepared a new, short video. The video is on the ABCA YouTube channel at this link: youtu.be/368i87R3QoM. This new video shows volunteers Pat Heffernan and Renee Sandelowsky, of Bayfield, helping to clean out and maintain wood duck boxes on a cold, windy winter day at Huronview Demonstration Farm near Clinton.

Wetlands are lands that are wet for all or some of the year. They support water-loving plants such as Cattails, Sedges, Rushes, Blue Flag Iris, Willows, and Dogwoods. Wetlands filter water and remove contaminants. Wetlands benefit water quality and also water quantity. Wetlands capture water when there’s too much water on the landscape during flooding and runoff and release water gradually when water is needed during times of low water and drought. Wetlands also capture carbon. Wetlands provide habitat for waterfowl and for more than 600 species of plants and animals. They are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems in the world.

The World Wetlands Day awareness work is organized by the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands. The day has been celebrated since 1997, when it was first established. The day also marks the anniversary of the Convention on Wetlands which was adopted as an international treaty in 1971.

This World Wetlands Day, people might consider managing water on their property. Water running off of land during storm events contributes to downstream flooding and erosion. There are ways to manage stormwater to limit flooding and erosion. On agricultural land, owners could consider cover crops to improve filtration, pasture strips around woodlot edges, berms, and ponds or buffer strips with native plants, trees or shrubs.

If people live in a village or town they could consider soakaways, rain gardens and disconnecting downspouts. Take a look at the downspouts’ fact sheet ‘How to Get Disconnected’ (from Credit Valley Conservation, Region of Peel and Mississauga). The fact sheet is available for free download on this web page: www.abca.ca/community/raingardens/

Individuals can also support local wetland enhancement through a donation.

To find out more about stormwater management improvements and wetlands, and projects people can do to enhance them, visit ABCA’s wetlands page, on the abca.ca website, at this web page: www.abca.ca/wetlands Anyone with wet areas on their property are invited to contact ABCA staff for a site visit. To contact staff about technical expertise and grants which may be available to help with potential projects visit the staff contact page here: www.abca.ca/contact/staff

IMPROVED WEBSITE LAUNCHED BY HURON COUNTY LIBRARY

The Huron County Library is thrilled to announce the launch of its new and improved website.

Located at HuronCountyLibrary.ca, the new site features a fresh new look and feel that fully reflects the vibrant community spaces patrons find in the 12 library branches located throughout Huron County.

Some key highlights of the new website include:

•  A seamless online browsing experience between the website and the new online catalogue: huron.bibliocommons.com
• Improved navigation for easier access to the Library’s branches, services and collections.
• An online events calendar to quickly find upcoming programs and events: www.huroncountylibrary.ca/events/
• A new blog written by Library staff on a variety of topics to keep patrons better informed: www.huroncountylibrary.ca/stories/
• A mobile-friendly interface that allows for easier site navigation from any device.
• An accessible platform that is welcoming and inclusive for all site visitors.

“We are very excited to launch the new online home for the Huron County Library,” said Director of Cultural Services and County Librarian, Beth Rumble. “The new and improved site will help us to better connect and engage with the community, while making it easier for visitors to find and to access all that the Library has to offer.”

The new site also makes it easier to ask questions and leave comments through the new online contact form and the Huron County Library welcomes feedback as staff work to improve the online library experience. The form can be accessed here: www.huroncountylibrary.ca/contact-us/

HPPH NOW USING PROVINCIAL VACCINE BOOKING SYSTEM

Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has shifted online vaccine appointment booking to the Provincial Vaccine Booking System.

“I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while our staff transitioned online booking to the provincial system,” said Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth, Dr. Miriam Klassen.

• Individuals are now able to book their first, second, or booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine online at covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/.
• Appointments can also be made by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre 1-833-943-3900 (open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• Alternately, residents can continue to call the HPPH booking line, 1-833-753-2098, Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Moderna continues to be provided to individuals over the age of 30. Individuals, including children ages five to 11, will get the recommended vaccine for their age group.

HPPH mass vaccination clinics are also beginning to provide walk-in opportunities for select clinics.

Walk-ins are welcome at the following clinics this week:

• Wednesday, Jan 19: Stratford Rotary, noon to 6 p.m.; and Goderich Memorial Arena, 1 – 7 p.m.
• Thursday, Jan. 20, Friday, Jan. 21 and Saturday, Jan. 22: Stratford Rotary and Goderich Memorial Arena, both locations 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Other walk-in opportunities will be shared on their website at www.hpph.ca/vaccinebooking and through their social media channels.

HPPH thanks Huron Perth residents for their enthusiasm. As of Jan. 9, nearly 46 per cent of those aged 18 years and over have received a booster dose. This includes about 85 per cent of individuals aged 80 and over, and 83 per cent of individuals aged 70-79. More details can be found on the HPPH vaccination coverage dashboard.

Evidence continues to show that people who are unvaccinated are at much greater risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 infection. The 20 per cent of the population that is not fully vaccinated are overrepresented when it comes to hospitalizations, ICU admissions and deaths. Since April 1, 2021, 81 per cent of Huron Perth residents treated in hospital for COVID-19 were not fully vaccinated. In the same time period, of all Huron Perth residents who have died as a result of COVID-19 since that time, 69 per cent were not fully vaccinated.

“We urge everyone eligible to get vaccinated as soon as they are able,” said Dr. Klassen. “Vaccination is our best layer of protection against COVID-19, especially for our most vulnerable community members.”

Partners in Huron Perth continue to provide as many COVID-19 vaccinations as possible. Clinics are open to eligible individuals aged five and older for first and second doses, as well as to those eligible for third/booster doses. For a complete list of third/booster dose eligibility, please visit: www.hpph.ca/thirddose. All clinics provide a family-friendly environment.

As in-person learning is resuming, parents are encouraged to get their children aged five and older vaccinated.

Pregnant individuals may walk in to any HPPH clinic for vaccination; no appointment is needed. HPPH does not require a note from a primary care provider, obstetrician or midwife.

Select local pharmacies also continue to offer COVID-19 vaccines. A complete list is available at covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations.

Anyone who may have COVID-19 symptoms or are isolating because of an exposure, please do not come to a clinic but reschedule the appointment.

“FACES OF HOMELESSNESS” A ZOOM EVENT TO RAISE AWARENESS

In communities across Perth-Huron and beyond, the issue of homelessness has become more visible as the pandemic continues to impact the lives of vulnerable people. To help raise awareness and deepen local understanding of this pressing issue, United Way Perth-Huron’s Social Research & Planning Council (SRPC) is holding a ZOOM event entitled, “Faces of Homelessness” on Jan. 27

“Homelessness is an incredibly important issue in our communities,” said SRPC Director Joelle Lamport-Lewis. “We wanted to create an event that really humanizes the issue for people and gives them the information they need to understand more about what those experiencing homelessness go through on a daily basis.”

Faces of Homelessness will feature three different components for attendees of the virtual event that will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Keynote speaker Leah den Bok will share stories and photographs of the people experiencing homelessness she has met in major cities around the world with a special emphasis on how COVID-19 has increased the struggles of already vulnerable people. A fashion, beauty and portrait photographer, den Bok’s book entitled, “Nowhere to Call Home: Photographs and Stories of People Experiencing Homelessness, Volume Four” was recently published by Europe Books. To view some of her work and learn more about the event, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.

Attendees will also get a sneak peak at the documentary, “Us & Them”, following co-director Krista Loughton’s 10-year journey exploring the worlds of four people struggling with homelessness — Dawnelda, Stan, Eddie and Karen — who she attempts to help. After the preview of Us & Them, there will be a panel discussion moderated by Beth Blowes and featuring local experts; Erin Schooley, County of Huron Social and Property Services; Grant Martin, City of Stratford; Cody Cunningham, Family Services Perth-Huron; Kate Ballagh-Steeper, Lakeshore United Church and Cheri Leyten, Huron Turning Point.

To attend, RSVP by emailing lthomson@perthhuron.unitedway.ca or call the United Centre in Stratford at 519 271-7730 or 1-877-818-8867.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY FOR FESTIVALS AND EVENTS OPEN NOW

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson is encouraging local festival and event organizers to apply for the provincial government’s newly announced Reconnect Ontario fund.

The province is investing $20 million to provide support to municipalities and festival and event organizers that are creating innovative ways to help Ontarians reconnect with their communities once it is safe to do so.

“While we all have been impacted by the pandemic, tourism, sporting and cultural events have been especially hit hard,” Thompson said. “That’s why this program is important to help them continue to operate and celebrate together with the community.”

Funding may be used for eligible expenses such as programming and production, promotion, mobile applications and website development, and implementation of health and safety measures.

Thompson said that by providing continuing support to festivals and events through the Reconnect Ontario program, the province is delivering a much-needed boost to help maximize the growth and competitiveness of Ontario’s tourism sector as it begins to recover from the ongoing economic and societal effects of COVID-19.

The program aims to support innovative events in Ontario that will:

• offer safe experiences that encourage people to travel locally, participate and rediscover the beauty and diversity of all that Ontario communities have to offer
• draw tourists and local visitors, whether in-person or virtually, through innovative programming, and generate positive economic impact for the local community, the region and the province
• provide job opportunities for Ontarians, particularly in the tourism, culture and entertainment sectors

Continued investments through Reconnect Ontario will provide vital support to ensure the long-term success of the province’s festival and event sector, while helping organizers deliver safe, innovative experiences that allow people to reconnect with their communities, Thompson said, adding that prior to the pandemic, every $1 of provincial funding invested through Celebrate Ontario (the model for the Reconnect Ontario program) resulted in almost $21 of visitor spending.

To be eligible, an event must:

• take place between Apr. 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023.
• occur in the province of Ontario (if an in-person event) or be produced in Ontario (if a broadcast or virtual event).
• be open to the public at large without membership in a club or group.
• follow all municipal and provincial guidelines, including health and safety guidelines.

Program guidelines and application form can be found online at www.ontario.ca/page/available-funding-opportunities-ontario-government. The 2022 application period is now open, and applications will be accepted until Feb. 2 at 5 p.m. EST.

“This is a short window to apply, that’s why I wanted to bring it to everyone’s attention,” Thompson concluded.

COVID-19 PHYSICIAN CLINICAL ASSESSMENTS BY APPOINTMENT

The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance’s (HPHA) COVID-19 Assessment Centre is now offering physician clinical assessments.

Previously, patients attending the Assessment Centre could access a physician for clinical assessment following their COVID-19 test. With testing guidance changes, the Assessment Centre is adapting to enable patients, who do not currently qualify for COVID-19 testing, to still access the physician for a clinical assessment only appointment. Appointments must be booked in advance. Walk-in appointments will not be available.

So how do you know when you need a COVID-19 clinical assessment? The province has recently updated its online screening tool to help determine whether you should stay home and isolate or seek treatment. You can use this tool to guide a self-referral for a clinical assessment appointment, or you can be referred from your primary caregiver and services like Telehealth.

COVID-19 Clinical Assessment appointments are for anyone experiencing high risk symptoms. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms is advised to immediately call 9-1-1 or visit the nearest Emergency Department. Those experiencing mild symptoms, who are otherwise healthy, are asked to manage their symptoms at home.

If you have any one of the following high-risk criteria you should book a Clinical Assessment Appointment. (Note: COVID-19 testing is only available to those who qualify, per new testing guidelines. This appointment is a clinical assessment appointment with a physician not a COVID-19 test.)

High risk criteria, includes, fever for five or more days; mild to moderate breathing difficulty; and poor drinking or dehydration. A child who is three to six months old with any symptom (infants less than three months old please call your primary care provider or attend your closest emergency department).

If you have any severe symptoms you should seek immediate attention at your closest emergency department. Severe symptoms, include, moderate to severe difficulty breathing or shortness of breath; new onset of loss of speech or mobility, or confusion; and chest pain.

Clinical Assessments are available Monday through Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Here are some helpful tips for booking a COVID-19 Clinical Assessment:

• Use the online booking tool to book your appointment. It’s quick, easy to use, and means you won’t have to wait on hold to speak to someone. This link is also available on HPHA’s website at www.hpha.ca
• If you don’t have access to a smartphone or computer, appointments may also be requested by phone at 519 272-8210 Ext. 2747.
• Please remember that appointments are required, walk-ins cannot be accommodated

Things to know when attending a COVID-19 Clinical Assessment appointment at the HPHA COVID-19 Assessment Centre:

• Enter the Stratford Rotary Complex at the Community Hall Entrance and follow the signs to Hall D where the Assessment Centre is located.
• Please follow all precautions including wearing a mask, physical distancing and frequent hand hygiene. Please note, once you enter the Assessment Centre, you will be asked to remove your personal mask and will be provided with and must wear a disposable medical grade mask.
• The time of your appointment is the time you should arrive at the Assessment Centre.

For more COVID-19 updates and information, follow the HPHA on Twitter or Facebook, or visit their website at www.hpha.ca.

PUBLIC HEALTH

The Huron Perth Public Health website is updated regularly with confirmed case counts received.

“Our online case reporting is not a real-time tool but is meant to keep the community informed on trends we are seeing,” explains Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Miriam Klassen.

For the latest statistics on COVID-19 cases in Huron and Perth Counties and also the per centage of people vaccinated please visit: www.hpph.ca

STILL ALICE

This February, the Goderich Branch of the Huron County Library and the Alzheimer Society of Huron County are revisiting “Still Alice”, the now classic book about living with Alzheimer’s Disease written by Lisa Genova and published in 2007.

Participants will be gathering online at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 2 to discuss the book as well as have a brief question and answer time with Jeanette Sears, the Public Education Coordinator at the Huron County Alzheimer Society. Books and book club sets are available through the Huron County Library. Register online at bit.ly/3EmBrEs.

Written in first person from the point of view of Alice, Still Alice candidly describes the impact the disease is having on her brain. Initially, Alice is poignantly aware of her changing abilities in how she navigates her world, her career choices, and her relationships. As time goes on, the text of the book shows her world becoming smaller, more selective, more manageable, heartfelt – and still, enduringly, Alice. Alzheimer’s disease affects the whole family, and Still Alice realistically depicts a family grappling with tough emotions and loss. Sometimes they aspire to their best selves, sometimes their losses feel unsurmountable.

The organizers picked this story knowing that it is already a familiar one. Anyone who read the book or saw the movie fifteen years ago, may find that it resonates differently now compared to then. People’s perspectives may have changed as they, their family and friends are fifteen years older.

CONSERVATION AWARD

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) has recognized outstanding achievements in conservation, each year since 1984, with conservation awards. Past award winners have included rural landowners and residents, agricultural producers and farms, service clubs, community organizations, companies, nature groups and municipalities.

The local conservation authority is inviting the public to nominate a person, business, farm, community group, or organization in 2022 for the Conservationist of the Year Award. People may nominate someone for the award until Feb. 24.’

To submit a nomination, visit abca.ca for the nomination form at this web page link: www.abca.ca

“There are many local stewards helping to protect and enhance our local watershed resources and this award is one way we can say ‘Thank you’ for those positive stewardship actions,” said General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer of ABCA, Brian Horner. “We have been pleased to recognize many deserving recipients over the years. We know there are many others deserving of recognition as well.”

Individuals, organizations or companies who either reside in, or have completed conservation work in, the ABCA area are eligible to win the Conservationist of the Year award. Current ABCA staff members and directors are excluded.

The Conservation Award acknowledges one individual or group per year who demonstrates positive conservation principles. The nominee must have undertaken conservation efforts over a number of years showing long-term benefits for nature and society. Examples of conservation work include: improving local water quality; conservation farming; reforestation; conservation education; providing wildlife and fish habitat; and promoting awareness and action for soil, water, and habitat.

ABCA presents the winner with a hand-crafted gift and makes a donation towards a tree and plaque at a Commemorative Woods site maintained by the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation.

COUNTY BUDGET

The County of Huron believes engagement with residents is important as it prepares the 2022 budget. Huron Residents can learn more about the County’s annual budget process by visiting huroncounty.ca/treasury/budget.

“County Council and staff remain committed to providing quality services to residents and making Huron a safe, welcoming and affordable community,” said Warden Glen McNeil. “I wholeheartedly encourage residents to visit Huron County Connects and learn more about Huron’s budget process.”

As part of the annual budgeting process, all County departments draft and review their annual budget estimates under the strategic priorities set by County Council. At Council’s initial review of the budget, the draft budget is also made available to the community, who are encouraged to stay informed. After the public has had a chance to engage, Council again reviews and debates, before final approval of the budget is made.

Huron County Council’s budget session is scheduled for Feb. 9 (virtual). Council meeting agendas and livestream video access information is available online: agendas.huroncounty.ca

Please note that council meetings can only be viewed live and video recordings are not cached as per County policy. Stay informed on the County of Huron’s 2022 Budget process by visiting
huroncountyconnects.ca/budget-2022.

ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS MONTH

January is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

People are invited to get started addressing their concerns about dementia by improving their knowledge on the subject by participating in free, online winter education sessions offered by the Alzheimer Society of Huron County.

Every January the Alzheimer Society of Huron County offers free education sessions to help people answer their most pressing questions. These online education opportunities are also commitment free – anyone can register for one – or all of them.

People can register for these Winter 2022 programs on the Alzheimer Society of Huron County’s Education Hour page at https://bit.ly/3Fvrois. They can also register by contacting the Alzheimer Society using the contact numbers provided above or by emailing admin@alzheimerhuron.on.ca

The sessions include: Dementia 101, Cargiver Resources, Dementia Basics and Memory and Aging.

Dementia 101 presents a general overview of dementia, what to expect, and where to turn. It is a starting point. This is the best option for anyone who is only able to attend one of these dementia education sessions.

Caregiver Resources will help clarify where to turn and what resources are available in Huron County. A First Link® Navigator will be there to answer questions.

The Dementia Basics Series is comprised of four, free, one-hour sessions designed to answer people’s most frequently asked questions. This series will be offered on Thursdays in January and February at 1:30 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. The dates and topics are: Jan. 20, 10 “Warning Signs – Should I be Worried?”; Jan. 27, “Types of Dementia”; Feb. 3, “Brain Changes – 8 As of Dementia”; and Feb. 10, “Communication Tips”.

The Memory and Aging™ course is a four-week course for anyone interested in finding out more about age related memory changes, brain health lifestyle choices and the practice of new memory strategies. While this course ordinarily has a workbook fee, the Alzheimer Society of Huron County is offering it free this February. Participants will be meeting on ZOOM from 10 a.m. to noon on the following Wednesdays: Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23.

Please reach out to the Alzheimer Society of Huron County to access needed help at the contacts listeda above. Support, knowledge and community changes everything.

COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR WALK

United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is encouraging residents to bundle up and raise money for the third annual Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk in Goderich, a family-friendly winter fundraising event for local individuals experiencing homelessness, hunger and hurt.

“We’re very happy to welcome CNOY back again this year,” said UWPH Goderich & Area Community Committee Chair Beth Blowes. “Funds raised address real challenges in Goderich and area around the issue of chronic homelessness. Based on the success of the past two walks, our community truly understands how important this issue is. We invite everyone to join us in working to raise $94,000 in support of our most vulnerable residents.”

By walking, participants will better understand the experience of being on the streets during a cold Canadian winter while raising funds to aid UWPH’s local work in support of the Huron Homelessness Initiative in Goderich. The initiative includes programs such as the Huron supportive housing worker, shelter for women, children and youth and temporary emergency shelter during the cold months.

This year’s Goderich walk includes a COVID-safe, outdoor event on Saturday, Feb. 26, and a virtual option to walk any time, any distance during the month of February. The in-person walk begins at 5 p.m. and features a two or five km circuit around Courthouse Square. Participants raising over $150 — $75 for youth under 18— receive a CNOY toque. To register as an individual or team, visit cnoy.org.

Last year’s all-virtual CNOY raised $92,492 during the month of February thanks to the efforts of 232 walkers, 44 teams and 1,421 donors.

CONNECTEDNESS COACHING

People are invited to enhance their personal resilience, and discovering how to lead and support others on their own journey to rediscover their resilience.

The Connectedness Coaching team, in partnership with the McKay Centre for Seniors, would like to announce a sponsored virtual workshop series, “Reconnecting Seniors with Resilience in Huron County”, with a choice of offerings in February or March 2022. The workshop should equip older adult Huron County residents, service providers and community volunteers with the knowledge and tools they need to enhance their resilience. This educational offering is also the level one training required to become a Resiliency Trainer.

The schedule is as follows:
February Workshop Offering – Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1 p.m. (Feb 1-3, 8-10, 15-17)
March Workshop Offering – Mondays and Wednesdays at 1 p.m. (Feb 21-23, Feb. 28-March 2, March 7-9)

Additional benefits to attending the workshop series include: a three-month subscription to an online knowledge hub, a journal to capture the participant’s learning journey, access to a facilitator guidebook and additional resiliency training (free admission to a Connectedness Coaching Workshop Series). Please visit empowerresilience.eventbrite.ca to register. Call-in options, technology mentorship and tablets are available to support participants in their journey with us. For more information contact Sarah Versteeg, Connectedness Coaching’s Program coordinator, at sarah@gatewayruralhealth.ca.

Reconnecting Seniors with Resilience in Huron County (RSR) is a train-the-trainer adaptation that engages and empowers resilience through a modified version of Seniors Action Quebec’s resilience education and Connectedness Coaching. RSR is hosted in collaboration with the MacKay Centre for Seniors, Connectedness Coaching Service Providers, and Seniors Action Quebec, and is funded by the Seniors Community Grant Program 2021-22.

REMEMBER THIS

The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 3,000 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.

“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.

In anticipation of the Chinese New Year, on Tuesday, Feb. 1st, we are exploring the Museum’s collection of Chinese cultural items…

PUPPET

PARASOL

This is a collapsable Chinese parasol. It has a bamboo frame and handle; with a steel band halfway along the handle. It features a white silk top with pink embroidered flowers.

This parasol was brought from China by Charles Wurtle as a gift for his daughter.

FAN

WINTER IN BAYFIELD
MOTHER NATURE CREATES ALLURING IMAGES

PHOTOS BY JACK PAL 

There is nothing like a good Arctic blast of cold air to allow Mother Nature an opportunity to create gorgeous works of art – water, wind and snow her mediums of choice.

This week, we are reposting a message from the Municipality of Bluewater with regards to the winter phenomena currently being created along the Lake Huron shorelines, This phenomena, known as shelf ice, can prove to be quite dangerous.

The Municipality of Bluewater is reminding residents and visitors to enjoy the lake from a distance.

As ice forms on the lake, it constantly breaks up, refreezes, and gets pushed toward the shoreline, forming ice shelves that can stretch several meters out into the lake. It appears almost as an extension of the shoreline in some places and is very appealing to the adventurous walker or photographer.

However, these surfaces are not safe to walk on.

Unlike the ice that forms over bodies of standing water, ice forming over the Great Lakes is thinner and less stable because the lake is always moving beneath it. What appears to be thick, stable ice, can hide large cracks or caverns. One wrong step and individuals can find themselves falling through the cracks and getting trapped in the caverns or plunging into the frigid waters. Hypothermia can set in within minutes if the temperatures are cold enough. Depending on conditions, it can be difficult for rescue crews to respond.

As beautiful as these natural phenomena are, it is far better, and safer, to enjoy them from the shore.

Editor’s Note: Bayfield photographer Jack Pal captured these mesmerizing images on Jan. 8-9, ever mindful not to venture where he shouldn’t.