The Bayfield BreezeIssue 658 Week 08 Vol 13
February 15, 2022
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LIFE COMES FULL CIRCLE FOR POTCAKE PUPPY
When one hears the words “St. Lucia”, thoughts are drawn to images of beautiful sandy beaches, azure blue seas, and fresh tropical drinks. A true paradise. For one litter of tiny puppies who were born on this lush and beautiful island, life did not exactly start in a state of paradise.
Just over a year ago, four puppies were discovered by a St. Lucia passerby in a cardboard box discarded into a ditch. They were in a very poor state, suffering from mange, and were covered by maggots. The passerby had good intentions and doused the pups with insecticide, but this only made the situation worse. Thankfully, he brought the litter to a local woman, Sue Reed, who nursed them back to health. The puppies were malnourished and required extensive veterinary care for their skin conditions.
The Caribbean Islands have many stray and unwanted dogs and it would not be uncommon to find abandoned puppies. These mixed breed canines are known as “Potcake Dogs”. Their name comes from the old custom of feeding them the caked-on remains at the bottom of a pot of rice. The dogs have a common ancestor and generally have smooth, short coats that can be black, tan, white, or golden brown, or even a mixture of all these colors. Their faces tend to be long and they usually have cocked ears. They are known to be incredibly energetic and friendly despite the difficult living conditions they endure as strays.
Reed is a volunteer with a rescue agency known as “the Bruno Project”. This group has a Canadian affiliate and regularly airlifts puppies and dogs to Canada where they are taken in by foster dog parents until permanent homes can be found. In addition to arranging the immediate care that the puppies needed in St. Lucia, Reed also provided names for them, and so it came to be that little “Elijah” ultimately found his way to Waterloo where he was placed with a foster family.
Meanwhile, back in Bayfield, Ian Burness and his wife Jenny were adjusting to life without a canine companion. Ian is quite a familiar figure to most of the residents in Bayfield. He was often spotted walking his beloved dog, Lou, about the village where he would stop to chat with whoever was up for a conversation. Lou was a gentle giant and was easily recognizable by his somewhat crooked leg. Sadly, time took its toll and Ian lost his companion a couple of years ago.
Eli sporting the typical colors and conformation of a “Potcake Puppy”. (Submitted photo)
Last Spring, Ian was hoisting a pint at The Albion Hotel and just happened to run into a friend of his from Waterloo. It was the very same person who had become Eli’s foster guardian. They briefly discussed whether Ian and Jenny would ever consider adopting another dog. The woman then asked Ian to step outside for a moment. In a scene he will never forget, Ian saw a tiny puppy face peering out from under his friend’s coat. Ian and his friend then spent some time at his home becoming acquainted with the young pup. Needless to say, both he and Jenny were smitten and a decision was made to adopt Eli.
Eli is now just over a year old. Ian says that his transition has been amazing. He slept through the night right from the day he arrived. He is a very calm and friendly dog and loves to meet people on his walks. He can be a bit shy though, and likes to make the first move when encountering a new friend. Anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting Eli can attest to the fact that he is likely the best-behaved pup in Bayfield.
When asked what the greatest reward was in adopting Eli, Ian states that the companionship is “priceless”. Going out every day for two good walks has greatly improved Ian’s lifestyle. He also enjoys more social activities as people love to stop and chat with him about Eli’s journey. Jenny is a member of a “Potcake Puppy” Facebook group and these folks schedule an annual re-union in St. Catherines of the dogs that found new homes in Ontario thanks to the Bruno Project. Of course, COVID had put a halt to this activity, but Jenny vows to make it there next year.
While in the midst of compiling Eli’s story, word came that he and Ian had escaped the cold Canadian winter and were enjoying a sunny vacation in Myrtle Beach. One particular photo, shared on Facebook, showed Eli frolicking on a sunset shore with gentle waves lapping about his paws. It seems that the young dog’s life has come full circle and he is now truly enjoying a life of paradise. Not bad at all for a “Potcake Puppy”.
“Bayfield People and Canine Community, Inc. (Bayfield PACC) is a registered not-for-profit in Ontario with a volunteer executive management team and volunteer board of directors. Bayfield PACC is supported by an active group of responsible dog owners and volunteers in the community and by like-minded friends of Bayfield PACC on Facebook and Instagram. For more information please visit: www.bayfieldpacc.com“
CANDLELIT WALK TO BENEFIT BAYFIELD’S CHILDREN’S ROOM
On March 26th at dusk, volunteers from the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA), will start lighting almost 200 candlelit lanterns on the Taylor Trail in Varna. The goal is to create an enchanted path where every flicker of light will evoke the memory of a loved one.
Kevin Kale (left) and Paul Hagerty have been keeping busy manufacturing lanterns for the upcoming Candlelit Walk in support of Huron Hospice. (Submitted photo)
Preparations for this fundraiser for the future Children’s Room at Huron Hospice started soon after the Ontario Government announced that they would match all funds raised for the Huron Hospice’s Capital Campaign.
Organizers note that a great deal of creative thinking has gone into developing the Candlelight Memorial Walk, ensuring that it will be “COVID safe”.
The event will appeal not only to participants who want to experience the magic of the nighttime forest but also to those individuals and families who can’t attend but want to express their love while contributing to a worthwhile cause.
This will be a self-guided walk and can be done any time between 7- 9 p.m., although members of the BRVTA, and a team of Bayfield volunteers, will be on hand to make sure everyone is safe. A dedication Ceremony will be held and filmed at 8 p.m. at the beginning of the trail and posted on the Huron Hospice website.
Participants are asked to make tax deductible donations from $30, $50 to $100 to light a memorial candle. For more information and to donate, go to www.huronhospice.ca/events or by calling Dave Gillians at 519 565-5884.
The Taylor Trail head can be found at the Varna (Stanley) Complex, 5 km east of Bayfield on the Mill Road. Please, no pets at this event.
BAYFIELD READS COUNTDOWN ON
The countdown is now on for Bayfield Reads! This tradition corresponds with CBC’s Canada Reads. Just as they will do on the National level, Bayfield will choose their winner for this annual event determining the results with the help of a slate of local defenders.
The Village Bookshop invites everyone to join them for Bayfield Reads on Sunday, March 27 starting at 3 p.m. on ZOOM.
This year’s books and defenders are: “Five Little Indians’ by Michelle Good, defended by Abby Armstrong; “Scarborough” by Catherine Hernandez, defended by Sally Leitch; “What Strange Paradise” by Omar El Akkad, defended by Rachel Rishworth; “Life in the City of Dirty Water” by Clayton Thomas-Müller, defended by Duncan McGregor; and “Washington Black” by Esi Edugyan, defended by Ralph Blasting.
CBC shared, “In these days of isolation, we’re exploring stories that inspire readers to reflect on community and who we are in the world we live in.”
In the weeks leading up to the event, The Village Bookshop will reflect on community by sharing a synopsis of this year’s books as well as introducing the local defenders. Visit their website villagebookshop.ca for more information.
BONNIE SITTER NEXT SPEAKER AT SATURDAYS AT THE LIBRARY
Bonnie Sitter (Submitted photo)
The 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, Feb. 26 at 10:30 a.m. The February speaker, Bonnie Sitter, will introduce participants to a little-known piece of Ontario history. Her latest book, “On the Wright Track: Memories from C.P.R. School Car #2”, tells the story of Ontario’s school railcar program through the recollections of four members of the Wright family. Their father, Bill Wright, taught in the railcar that travelled between Chapleau and White River. The book details the challenges and rewards of living and teaching under such unique circumstances.
Sitter lives in Exeter and is a retired travel agent who went on to study photography and then began publishing her own books. These include “Onions and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes”, which is now being developed into a play for the Blyth Festival. Sitter is currently working on a book about Clinton local Fred Sloman, of the School on Wheels, and is hoping to publish the book in 2022.
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
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
CENTRE FOR THE ARTS
John Rishworth (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) is excited to announce they have an Executive Director effective Feb. 1st.
“I am pleased to announce John Rishworth as BCA’s Executive Director. John is taking the helm at an opportune time, as we emerge from the pandemic and look to the future,” said Leslee Squirrell, BCA president. “John brings more than three decades of experience working in marketing, communications, fundraising events and leadership development, most recently as Vice President Business Development at Infinity Communications.”
“I’m excited to be starting this position,” said Rishworth. “This opportunity gives me a chance to work in Bayfield where I can match my love for Bayfield and Lake Huron with my passion for the the community with the Bayfield Centre of the Arts in furthering their mission”.
Rishworth’s charitable experience as a founding board member of Lake Ontario Waterkeepers, combined with his positions as Director of Marketing & Fundraising at Big Brothers and Manager of Communications with Covenant House Toronto will inform his approach to help advance the vision of the BCA.
Rishworth, and his wife, Denise, are seasonal residents of Bayfield with deep roots in the village. He was a part-owner/ operator of The Albion Hotel in the late 1980s.
“John is approachable and well known. A fun and sincere person who represents all that we at the BCA believe in. We are looking forward to his help in these un-precedented times as we navigate the BCA mission to advance the arts in Huron County” said Squirrell.
LIFE AT THE RINK
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is open once again! Thank you to everyone for their patience.
“We are pleased to announce your Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is back to full operations now that the COVID lock down is over,” said Director of Marketing, Jeff Kish.
Kish went on to say that he is also pleased to share that Wade Berard Plumbing has sponsored a Family Day (Feb. 21) Free Skate from 1-3 p.m. and that the arena is also back supporting their regular community sponsored free skating programs.
These community sponsored free skating programs are: Moms and Tots and Seniors on Mondays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.; Kids Shinny also on Mondays, 7-8 p.m.; and Public and Family Skate on Sundays, 1-3 p.m.
The Bayfield Community Centre’s management team continues to work hard to ensure COVID safety procedures and protocols are maintained. Safety for the community is priority one. Masks are required while in the Community Centre and can be taken off once on the ice.
“While we are filling up the Arena with teams and tournaments there is still plenty of available ice times – check out our online events schedule for available ice times and book some fun time for your family and friends,” said Kish.
Check the events schedule for available Ice times and community sponsored free skating by visiting www.bayfieldcommunitycentre.ca
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Trinity St. James Anglican Church in Bayfield will be returning to in-person services this Sunday, Feb. 5, in addition to their regular Wednesday morning services. In keeping with COVID-19 protocols worshippers must pre-register to attend the services that begin at 11 a.m and 10:30 a.m. respectively.
In light of the ongoing pandemic, those wishing to attend will be required to observe public health measures such as, wearing a mask and maintaining a safe physical distance from other worshippers.
To pre-register please contact the church warden, Godfrey Heathcote by calling 519 565-5824 or via e-mail at godfrey.heathcote@dal.ca
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Knox Presbyterian Church, Bayfield is extending their “Online Only” Sunday Services to Feb. 28.
People are invited to join the congregation on ZOOM each Sunday at 11 a.m., or watch the service later, on YouTube. Knox’s Sunday ZOOM services can also be accessed on the “Bayfield Activities” site.
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.
ADOPT-A-BFF
Butch (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has helped hundreds of feral and abandoned cats find their forever homes but many are still waiting.
Butch is the Adopt-a-BFF cat of the week.
This little ragamuffin showed up on someone’s doorstep last week looking for a warm place to be and something to eat – he was skin and bones. A kind woman took him in, filled his belly, warmed him up and gave him lots of cuddles. He was then surrendered to the Rescue and will be heading to the vet later this week.
Upon close inspection it appears Butch has a damaged eye that will likely need to have surgery. Volunteers note that they have had four kittens come in, in the last few weeks all needing major eye surgery. This generally happens because they were mauled by something in the wild but for at least two of the more recent intakes it was due to ulcerated eyes where the infection was too severe to be fixed by medication alone.
Despite his eye difficulties, Butch is a happy, lively, little guy who really loves to sit in a lap and puuurrr…
If your heart is melting for Butch please email for more information bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com.
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.
GATEWAY LECTURE SERIES CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY
Dr. Craig Hudson M.D. (Submitted photo)
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) provides a free one-hour health lecture at noon on the first Tuesday of each month. These lectures are presented by one of the Gateway Rural Research Chairs, who are, for the most part, University Professors or Practicing Health Professionals or both.
Gateway is proud to announce that the lecture series is now celebrating its one-year anniversary! They are also proud to have been able to mount this lecture series with the wholehearted support of, and participation by, the Rural Research Chairs at Gateway. People attend these lectures from around the world and Gateway is pleased that its message is resonating everywhere.
Gateway is appreciative of the sponsorship support by businesses, individuals and granting organizations in the community.
Each lecture is comprised of a 30 to 40-minute lecture followed by a panel discussion of the topic under discussion.
Promoting healthy communities and healthy individuals therein have been the overriding theme of these lectures. Perfect attendance at each semester is rewarded with a diploma. Participants can ask questions online during the lecture and the panel will try to address those directly.
Gateway Vice President and Research Chair, Jay McFarlane provides the tech ability that makes these “ broadcasts” work.
Gateway is cognizant of the fact that the Pandemic has been a significant burden in many ways for the entire community. Gateway’s mission is to improve the health and quality of life of rural residents through research, education and communication. Through this lecture series, they attempt to support their rural community and others with an interesting, topical and open discussion of health issues each month.
On Feb. 1st, Gateway’s Chair of Rural Mental Health, Dr. Craig Hudson M.D., spoke about insomnia, the value of sleep to mental health, and some of his research on pumpkin seeds grown in Southwestern Ontario. These pumpkin seeds have very high levels of tryptophan which is beneficial to sleep and helps the brain and body get to a relaxed and sleep receptive state.
Dr. Hudson is a psychiatrist, medical researcher and entrepreneur. With Dr. Hudson were panellists Lynne Harris, retired social worker and Patricia Robinson, nurse practitioner from the Maitland Valley Family Health Team. Gwen Devereaux, Gateway president, acted as moderator.
Insomnia and sleep issues are common throughout society. Much research and counselling continues into helping those who are afflicted with this problem to find solutions and to getting to sleep and having a restful night leaving them fully functional during the day. Poor sleep quality or complete lack of sleep can lead to serious health issues. Creating a good sleep habit is the goal of all health practitioners who are faced with patients who suffer from insomnia.
Patients who suffer from insomnia have troubled nights trying to get to sleep or staying asleep. Lynne Harris discussed the anxiety that these patients can have during the day; the mental connection to their bed and bedroom can lead to anxiety because they associate it with “this place of discomfort”. Patricia Robinson reviewed her experience with patients who suffer from insomnia.
Questions from participants asked about the benefits or harm that can come from using cannabis products to help with sleep and about the effects of aging on sleep quality.
Gateway takes pride in delivering knowledge, studies and informational segments within their rural community to promote healthy living and lifestyles. For more information about this ongoing monthly lecture series, visit www.gatewayruralhealth.ca
HURON PERTH OMICRON UPDATE
As the Province continues its cautious approach to Reopening Ontario, Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) thanks residents for their continued kindness towards others during this Omicron wave.
“Indicators such as hospitalizations and ICU admissions are improving across Ontario,” said Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth, Dr. Miriam Klassen. “Public health measures in place during this Omicron wave are working, but virus transmission is still high. This has been an incredibly challenging time for many, and we would all like the pandemic to be over. I appreciate all of the efforts that residents have made and continue to make, to support one another. By continuing to follow public health measures, we can protect our healthcare system, protect our most vulnerable citizens and continue the successful reopening of public settings.”
On Jan. 20, the Province announced its plan to gradually lift public health restrictions, while maintaining protective measures, over the next few months. Some measures were eased Jan. 31, and others are set to follow Feb. 17 and March 1.
In-school learning resumed Jan. 17. In Huron Perth, absenteeism monitoring in schools and childcare has not shown any concerning trends to date. In addition, the reopening of schools to in-person learning has not had a significant impact on community transmission or hospitalizations. The number of active outbreaks in highest-risk settings, including long-term care homes and hospitals, has declined. On Jan. 19, HPPH reported 17 active outbreaks; as of Feb. 9, there were six active outbreaks.
At the same time, during the Omicron wave, there has been a steady number of hospitalizations. Sadly, 16 Huron Perth residents have died due to COVID since Jan. 1st of this year. HPPH sends condolences out to the families and friends of those individuals.
During these difficult times, HPPH thanks residents for continuing to follow public health measures to protect themselves and the community. Vaccination remains the best defence against COVID-19. Individuals who are not vaccinated remain at much higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. Currently in Ontario, the rate of COVID-19 patients in hospitals is six times higher among unvaccinated individuals compared to those with at least two doses of vaccine. The rate of COVID-19 patients in ICU is almost eleven times higher. HPPH urges everyone eligible to get vaccinated as soon as they are able.
As of Feb. 6, HPPH and partners have administered 288,980 vaccine doses in Huron Perth. Eighty-four percent of Huron Perth residents aged five and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, and 80 percent are fully vaccinated with two doses. In addition, nearly 60 percent of residents aged 18 and older have received three doses of vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccination clinics are returning to smaller communities in Huron and Perth throughout the month of February, in addition to the Goderich and Stratford clinic locations.
All clinics are family friendly and welcome eligible individuals ages five and up. If families are having trouble getting to a vaccination due to lack of transportation or childcare, they can call HPPH at 1-833-753-2098 or email vaccinebookinghelp@hpph.ca. For questions about the vaccine itself, parents and guardians can call their child’s primary care provider. In addition, parents can contact the SickKids COVID-19 Vaccine Consult Service to book a confidential phone appointment with a SickKids paediatric Registered Nurse through www.sickkids.ca/vaccineconsult or by calling 1-888-304-6558.
Due to a more stable supply of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in Ontario, HPPH mass vaccination clinics can once again provide either mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) to adults aged 30 and older.
Appointments are no longer required to attend HPPH vaccination clinics; eligible individuals can walk-in to any clinic for a first, second or third/booster dose. Booked appointments are still available for those who wish to schedule an appointment in advance, and will continue to take priority at clinics.
To see the latest vaccination opportunities and upcoming clinic dates and locations, visit www.hpph.ca/GetVaccinated.
Those eligible can book an appointment through:
• the provincial booking system online at covid-19.ontario.ca/book-vaccine/
• the Provincial Vaccine Booking Line at 1-833-943-3900 (open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
• the HPPH booking line at 1-833-753-2098 (open Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)
CONSERVATION DINNER AUCTION MOVING ONLINE FOR YEAR TWO
The Conservation Dinner Committee is bringing back the online auction for the second year in a row. The charitable fundraiser went virtual for the first time in 2021 and it was a success in raising $40,000 for conservation projects in local communities. The Committee has decided to return to the online format for 2022.
The 2022 #VirtualConservationDinner online auction is to begin on Thursday, March 31 and will end on Thursday, Apr. 7 at 9 p.m. People may find out more by visiting abca.ca and conservationdinner.com or by calling 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.
Dave Frayne is Chair of the Conservation Dinner Committee. He said the committee had hoped to hold the dinner and auction in person this year but there is uncertainty during the current pandemic about whether a large in-person event could take place in April. He said the committee decided unanimously that it is prudent to return to the online auction format for 2022.
“We were so pleased by the community’s support of our first online auction last year and we hope donors and bidders will be just as generous in 2022,” he said. “We did look forward to meeting in person but since we don’t know what things will look like in April it’s safer to join together virtually this year in support of projects in our local communities.”
The Conservation Dinner is a partnership of the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) and Exeter Lions Club. This dinner and auction charitable fundraising event started in 1990. Net profits are split evenly between community conservation projects of the Foundation and community conservation projects of the Exeter Lions Club. The event has raised more than $1.255 million for the community over more than 30 years.
Even when large in-person events are not possible the need to raise funds remains, according to the Dinner Committee Chair. The Conservation Dinner fundraiser supports needed projects, by Exeter Lions Club and ABCF, in local communities.
The Exeter Lions Club has been a partner for more than three decades in the Conservation Dinner. The Exeter Lions Club, chartered in 1937, is part of the world’s largest and most active service organization. It is a group of service-minded men and women banded together to do things which cannot be done by individuals working alone. The club has actively fundraised for projects including development and maintenance of South Huron Trail, MacNaughton Park, and other nature and conservation projects. These are just some of the examples of their service in action.
Projects supported by the Dinner include community work by the Lions Club and community work by the ABCF. These projects, supported by auction sponsors and donors and bidders and volunteers, are many. They include parks and conservation areas; accessible nature trails in Bayfield, Clinton, Parkhill, Lucan, Arkona, Exeter, and Varna; outdoor nature education; a $1,000 student environmental bursary for students in local communities; a summer job at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority for a senior secondary school student; turtle monitoring in Port Franks and Ailsa Craig; aquatic habitat studies in Old Ausable Channel at Grand Bend; and others.
The Exeter Lions Club plans to bring back the popular 50-50 draw in 2022 for the fourth year. When tickets are available for this fundraising activity, the website link to purchase tickets online will be posted here: conservationdinner.com/50-50/ The draw had a record prize of $6,300 in 2021.
Last year, the Dinner Committee partnered with participating local restaurants, for the first time, in a “Dining for Your Community” effort. Families could purchase their own ‘conservation dinners’ from participating restaurants during the week of the auction. This allowed them to support community projects, and their local businesses, in the process. Organizers hope to bring back this dining venture for 2022. The committee invites local restaurants to take part. To learn about Dining for Your Community and to watch for 2022 restaurant partners visit this web page: conservationdinner.com/restaurants/
Last year, for the first time, the Dinner Committee hosted two live TV broadcasts to kick off and cap off the auction week. The Committee plans to bring back these popular livestream broadcasts in 2022. People may watch for details on this web page: conservationdinner.com/livestream/ The broadcasts will be scheduled for March 31 and Apr. 7, both at 7 p.m.
To learn more about the online auction visit this web page: conservationdinner.com/online-auctions/ A link to the online auction will be posted on this page when the online auction begins on March 31.
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
OUTBREAK OVER
On Feb. 12, an outbreak of COVID-19 at the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) – Clinton Public Hospital was declared over by Huron Perth Public Health. The outbreak had been declared on the Inpatient Unit on Feb. 3 after four cases of the virus were identified.
“Upon declaring the outbreak, immediate precautions were implemented, including prevalence testing in team members and patients,” said President and CEO of HPHA, Andrew Williams.
In total, two patients acquired the virus while in hospital, along with two team members.
As there have been no further cases associated with this outbreak, the Inpatient Unit has been reopened to admissions and transfers. Family and Caregiver Presence on the Unit has also been restored. Full guidelines can be found on the HPHA website at www.hpha.ca.
“While this outbreak is over, we can’t stress enough the importance of getting your COVID-19 vaccine and continuing to follow public health measures,” added Williams.
Appreciation is extended to the HPHA team and regional partners for their dedication to safe and compassionate care. Appreciation is also extended to the community for their support of outbreak measures.
FEDERAL NEWS
On Feb. 7, Conservative Member of Parliament for Huron-Bruce, Ben Lobb, tabled Bill C-234, Act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act (qualifying farming fuel). This legislation will exempt farmers from paying the Liberal carbon tax on natural gas and propane used for farming operations.
The Liberal carbon tax will reach $170/tonne by 2030. Bill C-234 provides farmers with relief by extending the exemptions to include grain drying and housing livestock. This is a crucial change, as these activities are not optional for farmers.
In January, the Parliamentary Budget Officer found that Bill C-234 will save farmers over $1.1 billion over the next 10 years. For farmers that have dealt with unpredictable weather conditions and global trade wars, this will be a much-needed relief and a necessary change for farmers and producers.
“Many farmers in Huron-Bruce and across Canada grow crops that must be dried in a grain dryer. Many raise livestock that must be kept warm through our country’s harsh winters. These activities are crucial to farmers’ ability to keep food on Canadian’s tables. They should not have to pay a carbon tax,” said Lobb.
To learn more visit: Office of the Parliamentary Budget Officer.
HURON COUNTY MUSEUM
The Huron County Museum is pleased to welcome Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers, who will bring her site-specific art installation #HopeAndHealingCanada to the Museum on Feb. 17.
#HopeAndHealingCanada is a series of temporary site-specific art installations created by Chambers, who uses knit and crochet pieces constructed from red yarn to illustrate the connections between all. She also uses the work to promote dialogue about decolonization and reconciliation between Indigenous, Inuit and Métis peoples and settlers.
“I believe collectively we must remain hopeful to heal. There is still so much that connects us to one another, and I am hoping that the pandemic has made that more apparent to everyone,” said Chambers, who has been creating these installations across the province at historical sites, museums, and other public spaces since July 2021. Each piece is constructed reusing red yarn from previous installations. “I want to illustrate the temporary nature of our lives, of our struggles and our achievements. The string represents the connectivity between each other and our environment as it will also not last forever.”
Chambers will be onsite at the Museum on Feb.17 and the public is welcome to watch the creation process, which will take place outdoors in front of the log cabin. The final installation will be available to the public until March 6. Please note that the installation will be moved indoors in inclement weather, resulting in capacity limits and masking requirements.
“The Huron County Museum is very happy to bring Tracey-Mae’s important work to Huron County,” said Senior Curator Elizabeth French-Gibson. “Welcoming such installations supports the Museum’s on-going work to expand its exhibitions by sharing more diverse stories that have not always been historically presented.”
To learn more about the project, visit: traceymae.com
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.
UNITED WAY
After a year away due to COVID-19, United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is proud to announce the recipients of Youth in Action Grants for 2021-22.
“We were inspired by the quality of applications,” said UWPH Director of Governance and Community Impact, Megan Partridge. “It’s obvious the pandemic hasn’t dampened the spirit of local youth when it comes to creating projects that will have a positive impact on their community. This year, we awarded $8,000 in grants and we’re looking forward to seeing the results.”
Youth in Action grant recipients represent a variety of focus areas and communities across Perth-Huron. The projects receiving funding are:
- Be Kind Campaign will help promote diversity, equity and inclusion for all groups, especially the LGBTQ2S+ community (Mitchell District High School).
- SDSS Naturalization Project aims to create a self-sustaining semi-wild nature area where students and teachers can learn outdoors (Stratford District Secondary School).
- Expression Express — The Art Cart will be available for all students to access art materials they may not be able to buy themselves. Art is found to be a positive way to express feelings and relieve stress for students who may not be interested in other extra-curricular activities such as sports (Stratford District Secondary School).
- F.E. Madill You Matter Student Wellness Seminar aims to better equip students to advocate for their own mental health, provide support to peers and improve overall wellness (F.E. Madill Secondary School).
- Mental Health Workshop will educate students about mental health, teach them skills to deal with stresses and talk about the importance of asking for help (St. Marys DCVI).
- Student Career Guest Speaker will share strategies with students around planning their lives, how to be successful and more (St. Marys DCVI).
- St. Marys Pride Sidewalk will help the project team paint a crosswalk near the school with a Pride flag with the aim of helping the LGBTQ2S+ community feel more welcome and promote inclusivity (St. Marys DCVI).
UWPH Youth in Action Grants are an opportunity for youth to access up to $1,000 to develop and implement projects addressing important issues in their communities. To be eligible, the project must be planned by youth aged 14 to 25, clearly engage their peers in Perth and Huron Counties and have an adult trustee over the age of 25.
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.
Family day is Feb. 21st, in light of the upcoming holiday, we took a scroll around the family portraits offered as part of the Museum’s collection…
ARMSTRONG-CAMPBELL FAMILY
This framed black and white formal studio photograph of the Armstrong-Campbell Family was taken about 1904 by photographer, N.B. Henry, Clinton, ON.
A list of family members in the photograph is glued to the back of the frame. FR (l-r): Hessie (Mrs. James Scott, Blyth, ON); Bertha (Mrs. Edward Houghton, London, ON); and Elizabeth (Mrs. John Laird, Hartford, Con, USA). MR: Minnie (unmarried, London, ON); James (Veterinary Surgeon, Gorrie, ON); Grandmother Janet (Campbell) Armstrong (Bayfield, ON); and Edith (Mrs. William Pollock (Bayfield, ON). BR: Andrew (Seaforth, ON); Mary (Mrs. Samuel Montgomery, North Dakota, USA); William (Physician, Mitchell, ON); Nellie (Mrs. (Dr.) McAsh, Tara, ON); Malcolm (Physician, Tara, ON); and Archibald (on the old homestead, Bayfield).
The frame is made from dark brown wood with carved flourishes; gold stamped-metal corner brackets amd gold painted trim detail.
MASON FAMILY
This black and white mounted photograph of a family of five including, father, mother and three children was taken around 1900. The photograph is stamped on the bottom and the left corner reads “H. R. Brewer, Blyth, Ont”.
Those in the picture are identified in a handwritten note on the image’s back: “Ben Mason, Harriet Mason, Eddie Mason, Fanny Mason and Harvey Mason”.
This photograph is part of a collection of the Gray family and their descendents: the Mason, Manning and Watson families. These families lived in the Blyth/Londesboro area.
MANNING FAMILY
This black and white photograph of five people was taken in the 1880s at the H. Foster Studio in Clinton, ON. The photograph is printed on thick cardstock with the studio title along the bottom.
Handwritten in blue ink on the back reads: “John Manning and Martha Cottel, and family”.
This photograph is part of a collection of the Gray family and their descendents, the Mason, Manning and Watson families. These families lived in the Blyth/Londesboro area.
BAYFIELD RIVER VALLEY TRAIL ASSOCIATION
WEATHER COOPERATED FOR WINTER HIKE IN VARNA
PHOTOS BY DON MUNRO
A Winter Hike was held on the Varna Nature trails on Feb. 12 and as evidenced by the photos this hike truly lived up to its name.
Hikers of all ages enjoyed a snowy, guided walk on the Taylor Trail and Mavis’ Trail. The Taylor Trail is an easy one km loop through the woods, while Mavis’ Trail is a more challenging 2.5 km circuit to the Bayfield River.
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) will offer four more hikes from now through March 26th. All hikes are open to the public and pets on leash with no pre-registration required unless otherwise noted. On the trails, masks are optional when distanced and the vaccination status of hikers is not checked. For more information on any event, contact hike coordinator Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or 519-525-3205.
Windmill Lake Farm will be the location of the next BRVTA hike on Saturday, Feb. 19 where participants can learn about “Tracks in the Snow” What ran through this field: rabbit? deer? Sasquatch? Starting at 11 a.m., Windmill Lake Farm owner George Ebers and co-leader Peter Jeffers will take participants on a tour to identify tracks of the animals that are active in winter. Meet and park at the Windmill Lake parking lot, 35957 Bayfield River Road. The hike will cover about 3-4 km and last about 90 min. This is a natural trail with gentle inclines; watch the weather and dress accordingly.
Celebrate BRVTA’s third annual International Women’s Day (IWD) Hike and the 111th IWD by joining in a hike along Bayfield’s Woodland Trail on Sunday, March 6th. IWD celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The hike will begin at 2 p.m. with hike leaders Annerieke VanBeets and Ralph Blasting. They will stop along the way to share stories of how Canadian women have contributed. Friends, partners, families, and individuals of all sizes, shapes, and gender identities welcome. The hike is 3.5 km and will last about 90 minutes. The Woodland Trail has some steep inclines and challenging passages, and may still be icy in March. Participants are asked to meet/park at the David Street trail head. A map can be found by visiting: www.bayfieldtrails.com/woodland-trail
On Saturday, March 19, community members are invited to join Denise Iszczuk, of the Ausable-Bayfield Conservation Authority, to explore the functions of the Morrison Reservoir one of the area’s most attractive hiking routes, during the “All About the Morrison Reservoir” hike. The hike will be about 2.5 km and last about 90 minutes. Families and youth especially welcome. Participants are asked to meet/park at 71042 Morrison Line, at the pavilion. A map can be found at abca.ca/conservationareas/morrisondam/.
A special “Candlelight Memorial Walk” has been scheduled for Saturday, March 26 starting at dusk along the Taylor Trail in Varna. The BRVTA members in collaboration with Huron Hospice and other Bayfield volunteers will create an enchanted walk through the beautiful 1 km Taylor Trail, starting at 7 p.m. For more details please see the article posted earlier in this issue of the Bayfield Breeze.
BRVTA) maintains seven recreational trails and sponsors, as is shown above, over 20 guided hikes each year, giving residents of all ages and fitness levels the opportunity to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
The Bayfield Trails are managed entirely by volunteers and are paid for by community donations and annual memberships.
“We are extremely grateful to those of you who are supporting the trails by taking out an annual membership,” said Helen Varekamp, membership coordinator. “If you have been enjoying the trails but have not made this contribution yet, we hope that this will be the year you will decide to do so.”
Membership contributions allow BRVTA volunteers to keep the trails open, covering expenses such as, materials and tools, programming, training, signage and insurance.
“As a member you will receive invitations to participate in all organized hikes, as well as an opportunity to join the hiking buddy program. You will also receive invitations to the Columbia Sportswear discount store and the monthly electronic newsletter. Best of all, you’ll be helping us keep the trails open for everyone, every day of the year,” said Varekamp.
Annual memberships are an affordable $20 for individuals or $30 per family. Becoming a member is easy; select whichever option works best.
Online memberships can be made at www.bayfieldtrails.com/membershipsdonations.
Alternatively, payment can be sent by e-transfer to bayfieldtrailsassociation@gmail.com or a cheque can be mailed to Bayfield River Valley Trail Association, P.O. Box 531, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.
Whichever payment is chosen members are asked to provide their contact information, so BRVTA can keep everyone informed of new events!
Submit Your photo
Email your photo in Jpeg format to hello@bayfield-breeze.com with the subject line Subscriber Photo of the Week. or…Upload your photo to Flickr.
I am looking for the Bayfield that is a delight to the eye – please share photos with a touch of whimsy, beauty, humor or a sense of fun. If you are to include people in your photos be sure to have their permission to publish their picture on-line and also send in their names and where they are from. And don’t forget to tell me who took the photo for proper credit to be issued.
SUBMISSIONS
Melody Falconer-Pounder
Thank you to everyone who reached out last week to congratulate us on the new website. Most of the comments had one thing in common – that it is so easy to read! And as that was one of our goals we truly appreciate the positive feedback.
Issues are now also easy to print for those folks who still love to read a newspaper in that way. The print option is also good for those without computers that have kind neighbors who print off and share the issues with them and I do know of some people who do that.
So how does it work? Check under the teaser image on the Masthead for a little green button that says, “Print PDF”. Once clicked it takes you to a PDF of the issue with a print option. Click on the print button. If we take Issue 657 as an example, you will see that last week’s issue was the equivalent of 29 pieces of paper. Yikes! Don’t worry you don’t have to print it all, you have the option of printing only the sections you wish. When scrolling over the PDF, a transparent yellow box with a little trash can appears over the content. You can click on that and it will remove the section covered by the transparent yellow box so that you don’t have to print it.
This is just another way that we hope will make our issues easy to read and accessible for all. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.