The Bayfield BreezeIssue 668 Week 18 Vol 13
April 27, 2022
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STAIRWAY REOPENS
The Pioneer Park Association recently announced that the Pioneer Park stairs are now once again open so that visitors may access the beach from the park, and Lake Huron has generously offered up some sand to accommodate a beach area as well. The stairs had been closed for about a year to allow work on a major bank erosion project as well as fundraising needed to complete the stair reconstruction. (Photo by Bud Robinson)
HOME AND GARDEN SHOW THIS WEEKEND
The Bayfield Lions Home & Garden Show is back, Apr. 29 to May 1st, at the Bayfield Community Centre. The Show is returning after two years of “COVID-interruptus”. Prior to that, the annual Show had run every April for over 20 years.
The largest and most successful spring expo along the Huron coast offers free admission for all, although a donation to the Bayfield Area Food Bank is greatly appreciated. Those who attend also have a chance to win some pretty fabulous door prizes – a Gas BBQ donated by Bayfield Garage and gift certificates from Bayfield Foodland.
Over 70 exhibitors will be featured in the show which will run Friday, 5-9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Home and Garden Show regularly welcomes over 2,000 visitors who enjoy the displays set up by a wide array of exhibitors. The exhibitors’ areas of expertise include: lawn and garden, home décor, landscaping, porches and decks, windows and doors, renovations, home comfort, leisure pursuits, health, travel, investment and insurance, real estate and so much more.
A unique component of this Home and Garden show are displays set up by local community groups to promote their mandates and potentially recruit new members. And always a highlight for the younger set, a talented clown will be on hand offering face painting.
And for those who work up an appetite walking around the exhibits there is a food booth. It is an attraction in and of itself with a selection of delicious lunches, snacks, beverages and a variety of pies and other desserts – all for modest prices.
People are encouraged to mark their calendars, inform their family and friends and bring the kids. All who attend are sure to find something of interest. For more information on the show or to become an exhibitor, visit www.BayfieldLions.ca
MAJORITY OF LITTER FOUND ALONG HIGHWAY
Members of the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association and community volunteers took part in a village clean up on the afternoon of Friday, Apr. 22. This Litter Hike began and ended at Clan Gregor Square. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) extends a heartfelt thanks to the community for pitching in once again to clean up the streets of the beautiful Village of Bayfield.
After two years of organizing this event virtually, this year BRVTA members were able to make it a safe and in-person effort. A good number of participants came to Clan Gregor Square on Earth Day, Friday, Apr. 22, selected an area on the map, and headed off with their garbage bags.
Though quite a bit of garbage was collected – especially along Hwy 21 – some litter walkers commented on how clean the streets were.
“By doing this every year, the community becomes aware of the need, and many people pick up trash on a daily basis when out walking,” commented Helen Varekamp, an organizer of the event.
The Trail Association thanks the Municipality of Bluewater for providing garbage bags and accommodating their disposal.
“If you were unable to attend the event this year, we encourage you to go out and clean an area of your choice any time this spring!” concluded Varekamp.
The BRVTA next hike will be with special guest Robert Tremain who will take participants on a guided wildflower hike on Saturday, May 7.
Tremain, former director of the Lambton Heritage Museum as well as a wildflower enthusiast, will point out some of the wide variety of forest plants and flowers in the diverse environment known as Naftel’s Creek Conservation Area. Hikers are asked to meet at the Naftels Creek Conservation Area, located off Hwy 21 just north of Kitchigami Road, at 11 a.m. A map is available here for Naftel’s Creek . The trail is an easy natural path with some bridges and boardwalks. Participants are asked to dress according to the weather and wear sturdy shoes. This hike will be about 3 km and last about two hours. No pre-registration necessary and no dogs please.
Looking ahead, Avid birder George Ebers will lead a Birdwatching Hike at Windmill Lake Farm in search of spring birds at this unique area surrounding a 40-acre lake. This hike set for Sunday, May 15 is open to BRVTA Members only and there is a limit of 20 participants. No dogs please. Those who take part are reminded to bring their binoculars on the hike that will commence at 8:30 a.m.
Hikers are asked to meet and park at the Windmill Lake Farm 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; participants are advised to watch the weather and dress accordingly.
To pre-register for the Birdwatching Hike please contact Ralph Blasting by email at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or phone 519 525-3205.
For more information on any event, contact hike coordinator Blasting using the contact info listed above.
And a reminder, hikers should be aware that the Woodland Trail will be closed from Apr. 25 to May 31 for turkey hunting season. For the safety of all please do not use the Woodland Trail during this time!
BOARD MEMBERS NEEDED FOR ARTS CENTRE
“Are you looking for a way to connect with the Bayfield community? Did you recently move to Bayfield, Goderich or Huron County and want to join an organization to create new connections while contributing to the community? Or have you recently decided to change (things) up a bit and do something new?” asked Leslee Squirrell, president of the Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA).
The BCA is a not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to education and participation in the visual arts for the general public – through the power of creative workshops and classes, public events, exhibitions, fundraisers, art installations and more.
There is currently an exciting opportunity to become part of this newly established arts organization as the BCA is recruiting Board members.
The organization is looking for members from across Huron County with diverse backgrounds and perspectives (business, teaching, politics, health, arts, trades, sciences, financial, legal etc) who are interested in volunteering their time and sharing their expertise to help the BCA.
Applicants need not be from the arts community but only possess a willingness to actively participate and help organize, ideate for new events and utilize their personal community connections. Being a part of the BCA Board will allow individuals to experience the opportunity to shape the future of visual arts and culture in the region.
“Help us tell the story of our community’s evolution through art and contribute in creating a positive vision for the future,” said Squirrell. “As a Board member you will experience a welcoming engagement with art that you will want to share with friends and family. A shared sense of pride in the cultural contributions of artists from our region. A convivial and professional group of Board colleagues who are passionate about the BCA and the arts in our region.”
Applicants should possess the following qualities and skills:
- Willingness to promote the Arts in the community
- Ability to access local knowledge, skills, resources, organizations, and networks
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Progressive values of social inclusion, diversity
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to initiate and maintain effective partnerships
Successful applicants will be asked to participate in nine monthly Board meetings of 1.5 hours in length (in-person and virtual) and to sit on one working Board Committee addressing BCA operational needs.
Want to know more before applying? Email at hello@bayfieldarts.ca. Interested applicants are asked to please contact John Rishworth at jrishworth@bayfieldarts.ca.
SO MUCH CUTENESS SHOULD BE ILLEGAL
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has helped hundreds of feral and abandoned cats find their forever homes but many are still waiting.
The Adopt-a-BFF cat of the week is Opal and her two precious kittens.
Two of the newest boarders at the Rescue are a sassy, little duo who came in with their gorgeous Momma Opal. The kittens, believed to be male, are full of vim and vigor and thus have been named such! They are ready to get into everything they can. They are thought to be about eight-weeks-old, so it will be another month or so before they can be vetted, and then they will be looking for forever homes. In addition, their Momma Opal has adopted four, three-week-old, orphaned kittens and is currently feeding them as well. Opal will also be looking for a home to retire to from the stresses of parenthood once all these kittens are weaned.
If you have been waiting to adopt a kitten or a cat, now is the perfect time! Please email bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com for more information.
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.
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Opal's kittens: Vigor and Vim.
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Momma Opal trying to fit in both lunch and a nap while her kittens, and her adopted kittens, are snoozing. (Submitted photos)
BYE BYE BAILEY
The Bayfield Bridge was opened to two lanes earlier in April and the dismantling of the temporary Bailey Bridge is now progressing. Although the bridge is now open the construction project is estimated to continue until August. Once the Bailey Bridge is removed the construction of the pedestrian walkway will begin. People should expect that the bridge moves to single lane traffic occasionally until the work is completed. (Photos by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Harbor view of the disappearing Bailey Bridge.
RECREATION MASTER PLAN SURVEY
The Municipality of Bluewater has launched an Online Survey to receive input from the community!
Bluewater is interested in individual households’ use of parks and recreation facilities, participation in programs and activities, and opinions on the need for future services in the Municipality. The survey takes less than eight minutes and is open to the public until May 18.
Additionally, a phone survey is being conducted where 250 randomly selected households will receive a call. Oraclepoll Research will be conducting the telephone surveys and if someone receives a call, Bluewater asks that they take the time for this important phone questionnaire. The Municipality wants to hear from residents, either way!
The Recreation Master Plan will help guide Council and staff in the provision of recreation over the next 15 years. This includes parks, trails, waterfront, programs, culture, and service delivery. Let the Council know opinions on the need for future services in the Municipality so they can create a successful Recreation Master Plan.
Community outreach continues online via the Community Consultation Hub, hosted by Huron County. This is an online space where the community is encouraged to ask questions and share their ideas about recreation! The Hub also highlights key milestones and project updates.
Visit the Community Hub here: Bluewater Recreation Master Plan.
Help Bluewater determine recreation needs and achieve a sustainable and inclusive plan!
Please visit the Survey Link below to take part: Bluewater Households.
BLUEWATER NEWS
The office of the Municipality of Bluewater Council has submitted the following to the Bayfield Breeze as highlights of their regular meeting of council held on Apr. 19.
- Directed the Manager of Finance to bring the 2022 budget by-law to the May 2nd meeting.
- Approved to extend the sidewalk and add lighting as part of the Bayfield Main Street Revitalization project up to the commercially zoned property of 29 Bayfield Main Street North.
- Approved the use of corporate resources during an Election Policy.
- Gave third reading to By-law 23-2022 regarding the Rader-Hoffman Municipal Drain and awarded the construction tender for this drain to Robinson Farm Drainage Ltd. in the amount of $85,360 plus HST.
BAYFIELD VILLAGE YOGA
Bayfield Village Yoga will be offering Gentle Yoga on Thursday evenings at the Bayfield Community Centre starting on Thursday, May 5.
These one-hour sessions will begin at 7 p.m.
The cost is $15 per person, per class. Participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat. Other accessories are available.
To learn more please email: Registered Yoga Teacher (500 YTT), Julie Boyd at juliemayboyd.msw@gmail.com.
CROQUET CLUB
People are invited to come out and see what world class croquet is all about on May 7 when the Bayfield International Croquet Club (BICC) holds an Open House.
Interested parties will be able to talk to the club pro’s and try out the game at this event which will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the BICC courts located at 100 David Street in Bayfield
OPTIMIST CLUB
After a two-year absence, the ducks are ready to go for a swim! The Club will be holding their annual Rubber Duck Race on May 22.
The race can be best viewed at the South Pier of the Bayfield Harbour – the plastic waterfowl will be set free at 1 p.m.
Tickets are now available from club members and are selling for $5 each or five chances for $20. Only 1,000 ducks will be “sold”. This event is always a sell out so to avoid disappointment at the pier don’t wait until the last minute to purchase.
This year the first five ducks that cross the finish line will win prizes. First prize is a gas barbecue valued at $500 and donated by Meinen Custom Homes. Second prize is a 32-inch television, donated by Brian Coombs’ Remax Reliable Realty. It is valued at $280. Third prize is a pair of Ray Ban Sunglasses valued at $200 and donated by Main Street Optometric. Fourth prize is a Fire HD 10-inch Tablet valued at $200 and donated by Lighthouse Money Management. Fifth prize is a gift certificate for accommodation at The Albion Hotel in Bayfield. It was donated by The Albion Hotel, and is valued at $180.
Money raised from the race will go toward the Optimist Club’s many “friends of youth” projects. Licence #M800571
COMMUNITIES IN BLOOM
The Communities in Bloom and Environmental Committee is looking for people who have a passion for the environment or an interest in community beautification!
The Committee is seeking four volunteers to join. Part of the mandate of the committee is fostering environmental awareness, advising the Municipality of Bluewater Council on environmental items as applicable to Bluewater and community beautification initiatives.
They want to welcome those who are interested to apply to become a member by completing the Application to join the Communities in Bloom and Environmental Committee Form available on the municipal website.
Applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Saturday, Apr. 30th. Please note that all persons must be appointed to the Committee by the Municipality of Bluewater Council.
Anyone who has questions is asked to please contact Lindsay Whalen at 519 236-4351 Ext. 238 or by email at pwfassistant@municipalityofbluewater.ca.
HARP CIRCLE
Harp Therapist and Bayfield resident, Martha Lawrance is offering two new opportunities for community residents starting in May.
The first is a “Guided Imagery/Soundbath with Harp” that will be offered monthly beginning May 19. The second is a Harp Circle where community members can join together for music-making. The Circles will be held bi-weekly beginning May 26. Both sessions will run for one hour starting at 3:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall at Trinity St. James Anglican Church, 10 Keith Cres. in Bayfield.
For more detailed information and any changes check Martha Lawrance’s website at www.myharpheals.com and/or Bayfield Activities Calendar.
WALK FOR GUIDE DOGS
The Lions of Bayfield are holding one of their favorite events again this year, “The Walk for Guide Dogs”.
All proceeds from the walk go towards the seven Dog Guide programs: Canine Vision, Hearing, Service, Seizure Response, Autism Assistance, Diabetic Alert and Facility Support. Each dog costs approximately $35,000 so anything people can do to help is greatly appreciated.
People are invited to get their pledge forms, or pledge a walker, and bring their dogs on Sunday, June 5 at Clan Gregor Square. Registration will take place at 9:30 a.m. and the walk will start at 10 a.m.
For further information and pledge forms contact Karen Scott at karendscott@eastlink.ca or 226 441-2042.
BAYFIELD BEER, WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL
Bayfield Arena Community Partners Association (BACPA) and the Bayfield Community Centre Team (BCCT) are gearing up for the return of a highly anticipated spring event. The Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival is back for year six on May 14th.
“The Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival is scheduled back to its normal weekend and now at full capacity,” said Bill Whetstone, co-event chair. “This is our major fundraiser and 100 per cent of the proceeds go back into youth sports, programs, equipment and subsidies at our facility so everyone can play.”
Whetstone went on to say that, just like everyone else, BCCT and BACPA have been hit hard by the pandemic and the organizers are hoping that people will return to support the festival that raises funds for the not-for-profit organization now running the Bayfield Community Centre. He would also encourage newcomers to attend.
“If you’ve never been, consider coming to this great event,” he said. “There are 22 vendors signed up to participate and three bands scheduled to play.”
The event will run from 2-9 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person and will include eight food tickets and eight drink tickets.
Tickets are available now at Eventbrite.ca (Bayfield Beer & Food Festival), at ShopBike Coffee Roasters on Main Street, or by calling Whetstone at 519 955-0682. Check Facebook at @ Bayfield Beer & Food Festival for more information.
BAYFIELD GARDEN CLUB
After a two-year, COVID-19 hiatus, the Bayfield Garden Club Plant Sale is back!
Always a highlight of Mother’s Day weekend, the sale will be held on Saturday, May 7 from 9-10:30 a.m. or until sold out. People are invited to come to the south side of Clan Gregor Square to shop for a large assortment of plants, shrubs, herbs and all things garden.
This is the Garden Club’s major fundraiser and they appreciate both donations and support. Please bring any donations to the Kale residence at 55 Victoria St. on Friday, May 6 from 6:30-8 p.m. Organizers request that donations are labelled and in pots, please.
Questions? Call 519 565-4018 for more information.
GIRL GUIDE COOKIES
Forget Robins, Tundra Swans and Maple Syrup, nothing signals spring quite like Classic Chocolate and Vanilla Cream Sandwich Cookies! That’s right, Girl Guide cookie season has arrived.
Cookies are available now from the membership for $5 a box. Please note grocery store chains will not have cookies for sale and they will not be available on-line this campaign – only in-person!
Members of Bayfield Guiding will be selling these cookies at the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Garden Show on Apr. 29-May 1st. Be sure to drop by their booth on the second floor of the Community Centre to purchase a box or two!
Money raised helps Bayfield Guiding subsidize activities and outings for their membership. Anyone who would like to make a purchase is asked to contact Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.
BLUE BAYFIELD
Editor’s Note: This is a semi-regular feature from Blue Bayfield highlighting simple ways people can make a difference in their community to create a healthier environment.
Turkey Tail (Submitted photo)
Did You Know…that the name of the gorgeous fungus you see on almost all the dead trees and logs in the woods is called Turkey Tail fungus?
What You Can Do… Start to pay attention to all the interesting life on the trails! Like other fungus, Turkey Tail is a decomposer. It gets its nutrients by breaking down dead wood. It recycles the nutrients back into the soil and creates space for new growth. Turkey Tail grows in clusters displaying rings with different shades of white, red, brown, grey and sometimes even blues and greens. And if you use your imagination, it really does look like a turkey’s tail! Turkey tail mushrooms are found all over the world, mostly on hardwood trees, and some people even use them for medicinal purposes. In fact, they’ve been used in China in traditional medicine for more than 1,000 years!
CONSTRUCTION TAKES SHAPE
According to the Bayfield Ontario Facebook page Bayfield’s Main Street Revitalization project will be advancing today to the next section (Leslie’s of Bayfield and Eden to Rumba and The Lake House of Bayfield) and the completed section along Catherine St. will be opening to parking. Merchants and restauranteurs with businesses along the street are remaining open for business during the construction period. There will be a break from construction from June 24 to Sept. 5 to allow for the peak tourist season. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
DIGITAL HEALTH: HOW TO NAVIGATE CARE
Dr. Paul Gill (Submitted photo)
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) is pleased to continue holding their monthly Rural Health Lecture Series, on the first Tuesday of every month. In the latest Lecture Series edition held on Apr. 5, they were fortunate to have Dr. Paul Gill, MD present “Digital Health: How to Navigate Care with Doc in a Box”.
Dr. Gill is Gateway Research Chair of Digital Rural Health. He was joined by a team of two panelists: Community Connector at The Local in Stratford, Matthew Maynard, and Social Worker at South Huron Hospital in Exeter, Jessie Brown. Maynard and Brown both provided insight into the pros and cons of virtual health care based on their own personal experiences and those of their clients and patients.
During this presentation, Dr. Gill explained that before the COVID-19 outbreak, there was a high demand for doctor and physician meetings with patients. Since the pandemic, physician meetings have now taken on a virtual role. Patients are now able to do video and phone call meetings with physicians. This accessibility has lessened the demand for in-person appointments and has allowed for increased doctor accessibility.
In 2018, the demand for virtual appointments with physicians was already high. Approximately 70 per cent of Canadians stated they would take advantage of virtual appointments if it was available to them. The original goal was to have virtual options within five years. Since the pandemic, this has led to an increased timeframe and has allowed this opportunity to come to life.
It is important for Canadians to have access to physicians and to those that can help improve their health. This was a gap that was noticed and has been in the works since. Canadians are now allowed the opportunity to participate in online or telephone meetings that work better for their time, their health, and their peace of mind. However, not all diagnoses can be made virtually, and the patient still needs to have the choice of virtual or in-person. Having the initial virtual meeting will indicate the best next steps to take with a physician.
This month’s lecture series has provided participants with a deeper knowledge and understanding of digital healthcare. It is important for community members to have access to healthcare when they need it. Filling in the gap for healthcare concerns by virtual meetings has been in the works in recent months and will become the future of the healthcare system. Anyone who would like to watch a recording of this webinar, or the rest of the series, will find they are available on Gateway’s YouTube channel linked from the website: www.gatewayruralhealth.ca
The next instalment of the Lecture Series will be held on Tuesday, May 3 for one hour starting at noon.
Sam Murray and Grace Bonnett will present an insight into their strides of local food sources in Huron County. Their project, G.R.E.A.T., has been an interesting foray into local food sources, procedures and consumer attributes.
Participants are asked to register for this free event at: G.R.E.A.T. Local Food. Participants will receive a ZOOM link after registering.
BIKE OPTION ADDED TO HIKING EVENT
(Created by Latisha Van Beets)
The summer of ‘22 begins with the annual Hike and Bike for Huron Hospice.
Sunday, May 29, is the date set for the Hike and Bike for Huron Hospice. After two years of hiking on our own, this event will be live, and it will be a celebration. The hike will take place on the trails at the Varna Community Centre. However, people who are still nervous about COVID can continue to “Hike Where They Like”. The organizers have added the bike option on scenic Huron County roads which will start and finish at the community centre.
“After two years of COVID we are excited to be hiking in-person and have chosen Mavis’ Trail and the Taylor Trail in Varna because there is a mix of easy and moderate hiking. There are a number of scenic road routes close by for cyclists,” said event organizer Christopher Walker.
He went on to say, “We want to celebrate hiking in person and also celebrate coming out of one of the most challenging winters in Huron Hospice history. Hikers and bikers will finish their ride or hike at the community centre and swap stories while enjoying a barbecue. We will also share more photos of the newly renovated hospice.”
“The hike is one of Huron Hospice’s biggest fundraising events. Funds raised stay in Huron County and are used to fund compassionate end-of-life care for families. Each year, hikers and donors help pay for more than half our operational costs. They are an important part of the Huron Hospice family,” said Jay McFarlan, hiker and Board chair of Huron Hospice.
He added, “Operational funding covers the cost of day-to-day services like nursing and volunteer support and our grief support program. As you can see, donor support is an important part of how we provide service.”
People can form teams of family members or friends, to hike and obtain pledges to support the Hospice. Children could ask parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles to pledge their support by email, mail, or phone. Teams can have fun and challenge each other.
“There will be prizes for both the team and the individual who raises the most money,” said Walker.
To register for the hike, go to the Huron Hospice website Hike and Bike. Just follow the link to pledge or create a team. Please send the link to family, friends and contacts and ask them to pledge.
Remember, summer does not start until the Hike and Bike for Huron Hospice!
For further information, contact: Christopher Walker, manager Fund Development via email at Chris.walker@huronhospice.ca or by calling 519 525-7352.
SIX DAY CAMPS OFFERED THROUGH ABCA
Conservation educators at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) are offering six specialty one-day summer nature day camps, at three different locations in the watershed, in August. These one-day summer nature camps will be held on Aug. 3-5 and Aug. 9-11.
There are two different one-day camps at Rock Glen Conservation Area in Arkona; two one-day camps at Morrison Dam Conservation Area east of Exeter; and two one-day camps at Clinton Conservation Area. The camps have different themes such as: Fantastic Fossils, Beautiful Bugs, Delightful Decomposers, Wonderful Water, Tremendous Trees and Marvelous Macros (Bugs).
“These new, specialty one-day nature camps provide an opportunity for young people in different watershed communities to learn actively in the great outdoors and to connect with nature,” said Nina Sampson, Conservation educator. “Parents and guardians can choose the location that is most convenient or the theme that is of greatest interest.”
To learn more visit ABCA’s website (abca.ca) at this web page: www.abca.ca/education/daycamps/ The deadline to register for the camps is July 4.
Once parents/guardians have completed registrations, they receive an automatic email that includes what to pack, where to pick up and drop off and how to pay.
Here are the six one-day summer nature day camps and the links to register:
Aug. 3 – Rock Glen Conservation Area – Fantastic Fossils: (This camp is full.)
Aug. 4 – Clinton Conservation Area – Beautiful Bugs
Aug. 5 – Morrison Dam Conservation Area – Delightful Decomposers
Aug. 9 – Clinton Conservation Area – Wonderful Water
Aug. 10 – Rock Glen Conservation Area – Tremendous Trees
Aug. 11 – Morrison Dam Conservation Area – Marvelous Macros (Bugs)
Camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parents/guardians can drop off their children as early as 8:30 a.m. and pick them up until 4:30 p.m. The cost of each day camp is $40. Each camp will run only if there are enough registrations (at least 10) and the maximum number of campers on each day is 16.
HPPH LIVING WAGE EMPLOYER
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) works in communities across the region aiming to improve the health and well-being of residents. This includes actions to reduce poverty and address health inequities. Now, HPPH is making a public commitment to the continued well-being of their employees by certifying as a Living Wage Employer. Celebrating this commitment recently were: l-r: Medical Officer of Health and CEO, Dr. Miriam Klassen; Board of Health Chair Kathy Vassilakos; United Way Perth-Huron Executive Director Ryan Erb; and Board of Health Vice-chair Dave Jewitt. Based on a 35-hour work week, the Perth-Huron Living Wage is calculated regularly using local data and takes into account the living expenses of a weighted average of family types. For more information about Perth-Huron’s living wage, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca. (Submitted photo)
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 percentage of people vaccinated please visit: www.hpph.ca
VOLUNTEER SPIRIT AWARDS
Tim Veal, who volunteers on the Stratford and Area Community Committee, and Marian deWever, a 2022 Volunteer Spirit Award recipient, “show their local love” for United Way Perth-Huron. (Submitted photo)
Without volunteers, United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) wouldn’t be the strong, 100 per cent, local organization it is. From addressing envelopes, to fundraising in the community to sitting on committees working to address pressing issues across the region, UWPH’s 600-plus volunteers are deeply committed to the places they call home, perfectly illustrating this year’s National Volunteer Week (NVW) theme of “Volunteering is Empathy in Action”.
NVW, celebrated Apr. 24-30 this year, gives UWPH an opportunity to celebrate the passion and commitment of their volunteers who have brought so much to this organization.
They recognized the following people with Volunteer Spirit awards: Darren Boyle, Marian deWever, Pam Hanington, Barbara Kane, Geoff Love, Kate Procter, Kim Richardson, Kim Ross Jones, JoAnn Todd, Kayla Vandenberg, Kathy Vassilakos and Paul Williams. These individuals have displayed local love for their community and dedication to UWPH’s mission, helping ensure more than 37,000 vulnerable people in Perth-Huron have the chance for a brighter future.
UWPH would also like to thank Campaign Co-chairs Rob and Leslie Edney for their incredible work over the past seven months of the campaign. Rob and Leslie undertook the co-chair positions in a year when local communities still faced many challenges. As UWPH’s highest profile volunteers, they were energetic advocates for the organization and helped build on the success of previous campaigns, pushing the organization to even greater heights.
UWPH isn’t alone in having incredible supporters. Volunteers are the heartbeat of local non-profits and UWPH acknowledges the work of everyone who gives their time and energy to the organizations and causes they believe in. Looking at the caring and commitment of their volunteers, UWPH is inspired to continue developing innovative solutions to local issues and building an organization that justifies the faith of the community. Thank you once again to all volunteers and congratulations to this year’s Volunteer Spirit Award winners!
NEW RESEARCH CHAIR
Dr. Ashley Flanagan (Submitted photo)
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) would like to welcome our newest rural health research chair.
Dr. Ashley Flanagan joins the team as “Chair of Rural Diversity & Ageing”. Dr. Flanagan (she/her) is a Research Fellow at the National Institute on Ageing a Ryerson University think tank focused on leading cross-disciplinary, evidence-based and actionable research to provide a blueprint for better public policy and practices needed to address the multiple challenges and opportunities presented by Canada’s aging population. Dr. Flanagan’s research focuses on 2SLGBTQIA+ aging and old age with the goal of advancing comprehensive health and wellness policy, programs and services for older adults with diverse gender and sexual identities.
Dr. Flanagan completed her Ph.D. in Aging, Health and Well-Being at the University of Waterloo. She is also a member of the Ontario Centre for Learning, Research and Innovation’s (CLRI) Supporting Diversity & Inclusion in Long-Term Care Advisory Group.
“There is a massive gap in our understanding of what it is like for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals to age and grow older in rural communities. I’m thrilled to start working alongside the Gateway team and 2SLGBTQIA+ older adults in Huron, Perth, Grey and Bruce counties,” Dr. Flanagan said.
Gwen Devereaux, president of Gateway, said: “We identified an important gap in our research team and with Dr. Flanagan joining us as our 14th research chair, we are pleased to begin the essential work in this area.”
PLANT AND COMPOST SALE
Eager to sell some plants for the John Hindmarsh Environmental Trust are l-r: Sandra Goddard, Chuck Chan, Klaus Seeger, Pam Somers, Roger Goddard, Susan Chan, Wendy Hoernig and Rhea Hamilton Seeger. (Submitted photo)
The John Hindmarsh Environmental Trust Fund Annual Spring Hike, Plant and Compost Sale is going ahead this year on Saturday, May 7.
The event, held outdoors at the Columbus Centre in Goderich, will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers will sort and label the plants, and can often assist buyers in selecting what would suit their location. But do come early for the best plant selection. They disappear fast. The compost is also in great demand and sells out quickly. Also, for anyone who has never explored the Maitland Woods, there is an hour-long guided walk of the Woods beginning at 1 p.m.
Plant sale proceeds support local environmental projects. Working with the Maitland Conservation Foundation, the Hindmarsh Environmental Fund has supported a variety of projects, including tree planting and trail repairs at local conservation areas, shoreline cleanup days, and dune grass planting at the Goderich Beach to stabilize the sand.
Remember…the sale opens at 10 a.m. on May 7 and compost sells out quickly!
DAY CAMP
The Municipality of Bluewater is hosting the 2022 Summer Day Camp Program in July and August! Day Camp offers exciting adventures, new friends, and caring staff. Children will create wonderful memories that last a lifetime. Each week camp staff plan a variety of themed activities and games. Activities include outdoor adventures, splash pad, crafts, games, sports, guest speakers and trips.
This year, two Day Camp locations are being offered at the Hensall Arena and Bayfield Arena. The Day Camp will be a fun-filled, action-packed seven weeks for children ages four to 12 years. Day Camp will run from July 11 to Aug. 26. The Bayfield Day Camp location is sponsored by Bayfield Arena Community Partners Association (BACPA) in cooperation with Bayfield Facility Initiative Team (BFIT).
Summer Day Camp registration opens Apr. 14. For more information about registration and pricing, visit Bluewater recreation programming. Space is limited so register early to avoid disappointment.
Program Subsidy is available through the Huron County Child Services. For subsidy, contact 519 482-8505 or visit Child Services.
BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES
Now that the community is slowly moving toward group activities the creators of Bayfield Activities Calendar have completed a recent update and refresh on the website. People are once again invited to refer to this website to learn what activities, from Pickleball to Mahjong, are happening and when.
BAYFIELD UKULELE SOCIETY
Hop on the BUS!
The Bayfield Ukulele Society (aka the BUS) is back strumming their stuff at the Bayfield
Community Centre (upstairs) on Wednesday evenings. Anyone who has ever wondered what it’s like to play and sing with a group of enthusiastic players is invited to come check the group. With lots of great music from their own BUS songbook, everyone, regardless of experience can join in.
For the month of April, they will be running “learn to play the uke” lessons on Wednesday nights from 5:30-6:15 p.m. prior to the regular BUS sessions. Come for a lesson and stay for the jam from 6:30-8:00 p.m. Of course, there is no cost to participate, but small contributions are always welcome to help offset costs.
Anyone who would like to be on the BUS mailing list is asked to please email bayfieldukulele@gmail.com and be sure to follow them on Facebook. Come on out on Wednesday night and find out what the fun is all about!
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.
National Volunteer Week, Apr. 24-30, is a time to celebrate and thank Canada’s 24 million volunteers. In this issue we take a closer look at some of the artifacts in the Museum’s collection that represent volunteer organizations in the county’s history.
ROYAL COAT OF ARMS – ODDFELLOWS
This is a cast iron plaque which is the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom. The plaque is painted burgundy, gold, green and blue. Design from left to right is: a lion (England); a crown with a shield; then a unicorn (Scotland). The shield is divided into four quadrants depicting: three passant guardant lions (England), one rampart lion (Scotland), a harp (Ireland), and another three passant guardant lions (England). The words in French “HONI SOIT QUI MALY INSI” are translated to mean “Shame on him who think evil”. The words are around the outside of the shield. The shield is surrounded by a Tudor rose (England), thistles (Scotland) and shamrocks (Ireland). A ribbon that runs along the bottom holds the words also in French “DIEU ET MON DROIT” that translates to “God and my right”.
LIONS CLUB FINE BANK
This is a bank that was used by the Howick Lions Club to collect fines. The metal bank is shaped like a lion and is gold in color. The lion is resting on three paws and has one raised in the air, its tail comes forward from the back by wrapping around the side and rests right above the lion’s left hind paw. The lion is looking downward toward the left. The Lions Club emblem is emblazoned on its chest. On the back is a spot to insert coins. There is also a spot on the base of the bank from which to retrieve the coins.
CANADIAN FORESTERS PIN
This is a pin from the Canadian Order of Foresters. The pin is enameled with red, white and green. There is a Maple leaf with “LBC” superimposed. The pin reads “London / High Court / Canadian Foresters / 1913”.
The Ancient Order of Foresters formed in England in 1834 as a society of a body of individuals that support a common financial or social cause. Support was often given according to their religious, political or tradesman affiliation. In 1874 the American and Canadian Foresters separated from the Ancient Order of Foresters and created the Independent Order of Foresters (IOF) for North America. Later Foresters that were established in Canada became known as the Canadian Order of Foresters. The society’s local branches are termed “courts” and named after the law courts of the royal forests in England.
The Court Benmiller No.86 of the Canadian Order of Foresters was chartered on July 22, 1882. All Canadian courts are governed by the High Court of the Canadian Order of Foresters.
BAYFIELD AREA FOOD BANK
VOLUNTEERS REFLECT UNSELFISH CARING
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
Volunteer Appreciation Week is happening now so there is no better time to thank the incredible people who devote countless hours to the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB)
“The Bayfield Area Food Bank Board would like to send out an important thank you in recognition of the many hours of volunteer work every month that keep our local food bank in operation, and enable us to well serve our clientele,” said Terry Henderson, president of the BAFB.
“To quote Erma Bombeck, ‘Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect the nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain love for one another.’ To each and every one of the BAFB volunteers, heartfelt thanks for your contributions as valued members of the Bayfield Area Food Bank Team.”
The Board would especially like to recognize the exceptional contributions of volunteers Claire Trepanier, Dave Wilson and Jim Knox.
These three volunteers have been super busy behind the scenes, with various tasks on behalf of BAFB, most notably the planning for, purchasing, and setting up of a fabulous new shelving system. These new units will give BAFB many options moving forward, improving set-up for distribution, storage of inventory and perhaps eventually allowing for a more client friendly approach to distribution.
“Many, many thanks to Claire, Dave, and Jim, who besides this shelving project, have been very active with delivering our service in other ways as well, from pre-planning for distribution (Claire), to multiple distribution day tasks, and grocery deliveries to clients (Dave and Jim),” Henderson said.
The Board offers a sincere thank you to all of BAFB’s dedicated volunteers for their time and talents that keep the food bank running smoothly and effectively.
“Together we are growing our food bank service for the benefit of the wider community,” she said.
On March 29, the BAFB held their Annual General Meeting over ZOOM and they were very pleased with the excellent turn out from their membership. At that time, they welcomed two new directors to the board, Diane Blackall and Catherine Tillmann. At the same time Director Don Jennings stepped down after completion of his term.
“We would like to express our sincere thanks to Don for his contributions over the past two years. Thankfully Don will be staying on in an active role as a volunteer with BAFB,” concluded Henderson.
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Dave Wilson (left) and Jim Knox pose with the new Bayfield Area Food Bank shelving they assembled recently. This will allow for better storage of inventory and easier set up for monthly distribution.
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Volunteers Jane Knox and Gayle Sabine (foreground) package up food items for clients of the BAFB.
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The new BAFB shelving system will improve set-up for distribution, storage of inventory and perhaps eventually allow for a more client friendly approach to distribution.
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Volunteers Claire Trepanier (foreground) and Audrey Albiston ensure clients get an ample assortment of fresh produce on distribution days.
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Volunteers Karen Smith (left) and Julie Lane organize grocery items for clients on distribution day.
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Volunteers like (l-r) Richard Tillmann, Barb Scott and Don Jennings demonstrate that "many hands make light work".
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
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Melody Falconer-Pounder
I love a Good Samaritan story and village resident Joan Spittal shared one with me recently. She wanted to express her gratitude to the individual who extended a kindness to her so I turn my “bit at the bottom” over to Joan this week. – Melody
“I was out for a walk, and stopped at a park bench to sit awhile at Pioneer Park. I continued my walk to the pier, along Main Street and returned home. It was only then I discovered I had lost my cell phone somewhere along the way. I retraced my steps, eventually arriving at Pioneer Park, and to the park bench. There was my cell phone still resting on the bench, but some kind soul had put it in a plastic baggie, in case it got wet. I am very grateful to whoever this thoughtful person is and offer my thanks to them.”
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.