The Bayfield BreezeIssue 679 Week 2 Vol 14
July 13, 2022
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ADMIRAL BAYFIELD SQUARE DEDICATED
On July 9, about 90 people gathered in the glorious sunshine for the dedication of Admiral Bayfield Square on Main Street (next to the Bayfield Archives & Heritage Centre.
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
It’s exactly 200 years ago that the Admiralty published Captain (later Admiral) Henry Wolsey Bayfield’s detailed navigational charts of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, the result of his painstaking surveys completed over four years. It’s also 190 years since Bayfield was founded by Baron van Tuyll van Serooskerken (1784-1835), a Dutch nobleman who purchased land in the Huron Tract from the Canada Company.
Interested in an ideal area for settlement, van Tuyll asked the young Royal Navy captain to recommend a parcel of land. The baron honored Bayfield by naming the site after him. Over the next 10 years, a plan was laid out for the community and two mills were built.
Last week, the Admiral Bayfield Project Committee (ABPC), in conjunction with the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS), highlighted the legacy of Henry Bayfield with two events. Although these events had been delayed by the pandemic, it was fitting that, in the end, they coincided with the 200th and 190th milestones.
On the evening of July 6, about 70 people gathered in the Bayfield Town Hall for an illustrated talk by author David Yates in celebration of his book about Admiral Bayfield, published last fall by BHS.
ABPC Chair Doug Brown provided an overview of the initiatives that got underway five years ago.
“We felt that Admiral Bayfield deserved greater recognition for his legacy of surveying the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River and East Coast of Canada, and that it was appropriate for the village that bears his name to honor him,” he said.
Preceding Yates’s talk, the audience viewed a short video produced by Guy Spence, with narration by local historian Dave Gillians and featuring greetings from Admiral Bayfield’s descendants in England, British Columbia, and P.E.I. The video can be viewed in the Bayfield Archives & Heritage Centre on Main Street in the village.
Three days later, about 90 people gathered in the glorious sunshine for the dedication of Admiral Bayfield Square on Main Street (next to the Archives building).
Brown thanked his fellow members of the ABPC: Roger Lewington, Dave MacLaren, David Yates, Rick Sickinger, Kim McCabe, Dave Gillians, BHS president Ruth Gibson, BHS Archivist Julia Armstrong, and Guy Spence.
He also expressed appreciation to the following for their support: Heritage Canada, County of Huron, Municipality of Bluewater, Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce, Bayfield Lions Club, BHS and Diamond Concrete.
Offering congratulations for the success of the community project were MP Ben Lobb, MPP Lisa Thompson, Huron County Warden Glen McNeil, and Bluewater Mayor Paul Klopp. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held with Lobb, Gibson and Klopp doing the honors. A highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of a sculpture of Admiral Bayfield created and generously donated by Bayfield resident Frank Moore. Following the unveiling Moore was presented with the very first hardcover edition of the book about Admiral Bayfield by Gibson.
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On the evening of July 6, about 70 people gathered in the Bayfield Town Hall for an illustrated talk by author David Yates in celebration of his book about Admiral Bayfield, published last fall by Bayfield Historical Society. (Photo by Julia Armstrong)
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Admiral Bayfield Project Committee Chair Doug Brown noted in his talk, “We felt that Admiral Bayfield deserved greater recognition for his legacy of surveying the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence River and East Coast of Canada, and that it was appropriate for the village that bears his name to honor him.”
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A ribbon cutting ceremony officially opening Admiral Bayfield Square with (l-r): Mayor of Bluewater Paul Klopp, Bayfield Historical Society President Ruth Gibson and MP Ben Lobb being given the honors.
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Ben Lobb, member of Parliament for Huron Bruce, spoke to the crowd as Tom Dawe and Doug Brown look on.
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Those who gathered for the official opening of Admiral Bayfield Square were treated to music provided by Nia and Claire Bracken from Stratford, ON.
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Mayor of Bluewater Paul Klopp shared some of his childhood memories of the village during his congratulatory comments. (Photo by Jack Pal)
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Lisa Thompson, member of Provincial Parliament for Huron-Bruce expressed how happy she was to be a part of the dedication of the Square. Huron County Warden Glen McNeil looks on. (Photo by John Pounder)
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Sculptor Frank Moore and Bayfield Historical Society President Ruth Gibson were invited to unveil this sculpture of Admiral Bayfield.
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Huron County Warden Glen McNeil offered his congratulations to the community on the project.
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A closer look at the sculpture of Admiral Bayfield created by Frank Moore. (Photo By Stephanie Talbot)
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The Admiral Bayfield Project Committee was chaired by Doug Brown who opened the event with some background regarding the project as well as some history regarding Admiral Bayfield. (Photo by Stephanie Talbot)
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Following the unveiling of the sculpture Frank Moore was presented with the very first hardcover edition of the book about Admiral Bayfield by Bayfield Historical Society President Ruth Gibson.
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Bayfield resident Frank Moore created and generously donated the sculpture of Admiral Bayfield - the crowning touch to the new Square. Following the unveiling, Bayfield Historical Society President Ruth Gibson thanked him for sharing his talents with the community.
AUTHOR SHELLY SAUNDERS TO VISIT
Everyone is invited to attend a Book Signing in The Village Bookshop Garden on Friday, July 15.
The event will be held from 2-4 p.m. with guest author Shelly Sanders, author of “Daughters of the Occupation” (Harper Collins, April 2022). This book explores intergenerational trauma from the Rumbula Massacre in Riga, Latvia, where 26,000 Jews were murdered over two nights.
When Miriam and her family are rounded up and forced to live in the Jewish ghetto in Riga, she chooses to give up her children to the care of a Gentile friend who will hide them. A few weeks later, Miriam, along with thousands of other Jews, is marched to the execution pits in the Rumbula forest. Incredibly, she manages to escape the carnage when night falls. Through a series of dramatic events, she finds sanctuary in the countryside, managing to hide for three years and survive the war. Consumed by guilt, she is finally reunited with her daughter. But she has lost her son.
Thirty-five years later, Miriam’s granddaughter, Sarah, is living in Chicago with her family. Seeking to understand her maternal family history, Sarah tries desperately to ferret out Miriam’s secret. Miriam does not want to revisit the past, but through persistence, Sarah eventually finds out enough to impel her to travel to Riga to search for her uncle. But it is the height of the Cold War and Riga is under Soviet control. Now Sarah’s quest for the truth may threaten her freedom when she comes face to face with the KGB.
This novel is inspired by Sander’s family history as Jews in Latvia during WWII. Similarly, Before Sanders started weaving her family through historical narratives, she was a journalist, writing for the Toronto Star, Maclean’s, National Post, Canadian Living and Reader’s Digest.
The Village Bookshop has planned a series of events to be held in their side garden during the summer and Fall. They are free and everyone is welcome. On July 16, at 11 a.m. enjoy Cellist Danuta Wyant and the Bayfield Artists Guild. On Aug. 13, they will host their Annual Antique Show and Sale with Land and Ross from Shakespeare, ON, , and on Aug. 18th they will welcome Author Catherine Fogerty to discuss and sign her real crime publication “Murder on the Inside: The True Story of the Deadly Riot at Kingston Penitentiary”.
The Village Bookshop is located at 24 Main St. in Bayfield. They can also be found online at villagebookshop.ca.
ORANGE FEMALE TABBY READY TO ADOPT
Beanie (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has helped hundreds and hundreds of feral and abandoned cats find their forever homes but many are still waiting.
Beanie is the Adopt-A-BFF cat of the week.
Beanie is a bit of a rarity as she is an orange female. Orange cats carry a genetic marker that is predominantly male in fact 86 per cent of orange cats are male.
This orange, female Tabby was taken in as a stray. The person that found her desperately wanted to keep her but was unable to because Beanie has a huge fear of dogs and canines were already established in the home. Despite a valiant effort this living arrangement proved to be too stressful for the cat so she was surrendered to the Rescue.
She has been vetted and had her surgery so she is now ready to be adopted. She’s a very gentle girl with soulful eyes. She can be quite playful but likes to know that her human is nearby for cuddle time! Volunteers believe Beanie also finds the shelter life a bit chaotic for her taste so she is definitely ready to move on to her forever home!
Anyone who would like to meet Beanie are asked to 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.
June was Pet Appreciation Month at Pet Valu in Goderich and they collected donations for BFF setting a goal to raise $2,500 but the community proved to be the cat’s Meow – donating a little over $4,500!
“We would at this time like to send out a huge thank you and our heartfelt appreciation to the very special team at Pet Value in Goderich for their unending support of not just our Rescue, however generous they are to us, but to animals in general,” said Deb Penhale representing BFF. “They’re always first to jump in to help whatever they can do. Their fundraiser this year surpassed all of our expectations and our adoption event was once again a resounding success. We couldn’t do what we do without them and we just don’t have enough words to express how truly special they are!”
ADMIRAL BAYFIELD STORIES SHARED ALONG HERITAGE TRAIL
PHOTOS BY JACK PAL
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) joined the celebrations in dedicating Admiral Bayfield Square with a walk through the village led by historian David Yates on Saturday, July 9.
Yates is the author of “Admiral Henry Wolsey Bayfield: Master Chart Maker of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River”.
Participants started at Clan Gregor Square at 11 a.m. and took part in the walk that lasted about 90 minutes. They followed the Heritage Trail through the Village to Pioneer Park and returned to Main Street just prior to the dedication of Admiral Bayfield Square. Along the way, Yates shared some stories about the man after whom the Village is named.
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Those who took part in the walk had the added bonus of enjoying the beauty of gardens blooming along the route.
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David Yates author of “Admiral Henry Wolsey Bayfield: Master Chart Maker of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River” shared stories of the surveyor during the walk which included a stop in Pioneer Park where another piece of local history was examined.
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About 20 people took part in a walk through the village led by historian David Yates on Saturday, July 9.
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Participants followed the Heritage Trail through the Village to Pioneer Park and returned to Main Street just prior to the dedication of Admiral Bayfield Square.
SUMMER BINGO
Known best for their fabulous Turkey Bingo events in December the Bayfield Lions Club is adding to their repertoire by hosting a Summer Bingo this coming Saturday July 16 downstairs in the Bayfield Arena.
In celebration of their 75th anniversary, this super-sized event will feature both regular and share-the-wealth games – sorry, no poultry this time around!
Doors open at 12:30 p.m. with games being held from 1-4 p.m. People must be 18 years and over to play. AGCO Licence #M800579.
SHORT TERM RENTALS SURVEY
The Municipality of Bluewater staff and Council would like to create a short term rental policy that balances the economic benefits of short term rentals with the needs of the neighborhoods. A key part of this process is to work with the community toward this goal. The Municipality would like public feedback to draft a by-law to regulate short term rentals.
As part of the process, the Municipality of Bluewater invites the public across the municipality to provide feedback on short term rentals and the draft by-law. This includes feedback from short term rental operators, neighbors of short term rentals, other residents in the municipality, and visitors who use short term rentals. A variety of perspectives will help to develop a by-law that balances the needs of residents and short term rental operators.
The purpose of the proposed by-law is to ensure safety of all parties in and around all properties. It will include considerations for protection of renters and neighbours. Some items to be included in the by-law are:
- A parking management plan to ensure that people do not park on streets outside of permitted areas and to prohibit parking on private lots where damage to septic systems could happen.
- A maximum occupancy limit that reflects a maximum number of people per bedroom and/or per dwelling.
- A requirement that the owner must be able to attend the property within thirty minutes.
- A demerit point system is proposed to give negative points to rentals that do not comply with the licensing by-law or other municipal by-laws. If a maximum number of demerit points is reached, the license may be revoked. This will ensure that all municipal by-laws and requirements will be followed within the most vulnerable residential areas.
The Municipality welcomes individuals to complete the short term rental consultation survey by Aug. 31. It can be found by clicking here: Survey. This survey has different questions geared towards people’s role as either a neighbor, short term rental operator, visitor, etc. Any information collected may be included in a report to Council, but personal information will not be shared.
TOWN HALL
The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society (BTHHS) is currently looking for additional members to join their Board of Directors including a Secretary, a “House” director and a “Rental” director.
According to existing members of the Executive, the workload for a Director is not daunting…and it’s fun! Participation includes: attendance at monthly Board meetings;
bringing ideas and participation in an annual Town Hall Planning session for the following year; volunteer time to help at Town Hall Events (there are six this year); and participate in the annual Town Hall spring yard clean up.
The “House” Director position will be available soon. This position involves the maintenance and upkeep of the building working closely with the part time custodian. The person in the “Rental” Director position will work closely with the rental coordinator for weddings and events. The person who fulfils the “Secretary” position will participate in Board decisions, take minutes and help the President set the agenda.
The Bayfield Town Hall was built in 1882, then moved to its present location on Clan Gregor Square in 1920. The Town Hall was the seat of Village government from that date until 1927 and again from 1965 to 1984 at which point, the aging building was closed and in disrepair.
In 1989, a committee was formed to restore and re-energize the Town Hall. The committee was known as the “Friends of the Town Hall” and after years of fundraising, private donations and grants, monies were raised to restore and maintain the historic building.
Today, the BTHHS, a non-profit corporation with a volunteer Board of Directors, is responsible for its maintenance and upkeep with a mandate to provide cultural events and activities for the Village. All of this is possible through the many fundraising events run by the Board as well as generous donations from Bayfield residents.
The following is an overview of what these fundraising efforts pay for:
- Repairs and upgrades to the building
- Heat, hydro and operation of the building
- Maintenance and cleaning including a part-time staff custodian
- Renting the hall for weddings and community use including a part-time staff rental coordinator
- Hosting events and performances at the Town Hall
To learn more or to apply for a position please email bayfieldtownhall@gmail.com or call 519 565-5788.
MURAL PROJECT
Huron County Economic Development is working with six communities to provide grant funding to create murals to be completed by the end of 2022 and Bayfield is one of them!
Bayfield’s contribution to the Huron County Mural Project will be located on the south wall of the Bayfield arena, facing Jane Street. Bluewater Council has granted permission for the mural to be located on a portion of this wall with the Facilities Manager, Maggie Off, in support.
A Selection Committee made up of local community members will be convened to help steer the concept and make final selection, ensuring that it fairly represents the Bayfield community. The artist’s concept of the work will be shared along with virtual voting on the final design via social media. Council will also have final approval as it will be painted on Municipal property.
The Bayfield Centre For The Arts (BCA) will be the managing partner in this public art project.
Anyone with interest in being on this Public Mural Committee, who may represent any of the following sectors of the community are encouraged to contact the BCA immediately: any Bayfield residents, Chamber businesses, non-profit organizations, service providers, Heritage Committee members, Art Gallery owners, artists, youths, or under-represented communities.
Please send a short paragraph explaining the group you would represent and reasons for your interest. Six successful people will be contacted. Please email Hello@bayfielarts.ca.
The other Huron County communities that have been awarded a public mural are Goderich, Wingham, Exeter, Seaforth and Clinton.
Each of these murals will be included in a digital mural trail.
“Public art has many benefits, not the least of which is enhancing the human experience, celebrating community identity and culture, promoting economic development and tourism, creating jobs in creative industries — for artists, and enhancing the human experience in the public realm,” said Huron County Economic Development Officer, Rick Sickinger.
FAIR HELP WANTED
The Bayfield Community Fair is 166 years young and organizers invite everyone to “put the Fair in your summer plans”! (Photo courtesy Pixabay)
Volunteers Needed!
The Bayfield Agricultural Society is actively seeking volunteers from the community to help with the Bayfield Community Fair, Aug. 19-21.
Help is needed both in setting up the fairgrounds and arena for the fair as well as cleaning up after the event is over by taking down and storing away equipment. Wednesday, Aug. 17 is the date that set up help is required while Monday, Aug. 22 is scheduled for the clean up, 9 a.m. to finish is the time to help on both occasions.
Volunteers are needed to help with transferring exhibits from vehicles to the right tables in the arena on Thursday, Aug. 18 from 7-9 p.m. and Friday, Aug. 19 from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
Help is requested with sorting exhibits, recording winners, and adding winners’ ribbons on Friday, Aug. 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
And once the fair begins volunteers are sought to help with the food and beverage aspects of the fair during Friday evening meal service; Saturday afternoon meal service; and Friday and Saturday evening bartending.
Over the course of the three day event volunteers are needed to assist with gate admissions and supervising booths or activities, such as the “What Is It?” table, dunk tank, animal display barn and surveying visitors.
Volunteer help is always much appreciated. Anyone who can spare a few hours to help out is kindly asked to email info@bayfieldfair.ca. Please include dates and times of availability. High school students who need extra hours to complete their volunteer service requirements for graduation are most welcome.
JULY HIKES
On Saturday, July 23, the whole family is invited to a Scavenger Hunt on the Varna Nature Trails hosted by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA).
The event will start early at 9 a.m. and participants will be sent off with a list of items to collect along the way. Can you find a snail shell? A feather? Something blue? Bring a bag to collect your treasures and everyone will gather at the end to see how participants did. This event will be great for kids, but people of all ages are welcome. The Varna Complex is 5 km east of Bayfield on the Mill Road and the trailhead is at the north end of the parking lot. A map can be found here: Mavis’ Trail – Taylor Trail .
For more information about any BRVTA hikes, please contact Hike Coordinator Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or call 519 525-3205.
Now is also a great time of year to utilize the BRVTA’s “Hiking Buddy Program”.
“We want to encourage you to use our beautiful trails year round for fitness and fun as much as you desire,” said Blasting, “The Hiking Buddy program is a membership benefit designed to help you meet other members of the BRVTA to organize a hiking time, with at least one other person, outside of the scheduled group hikes our association offers.”
Anyone interested in joining this program, is asked to please contact the coordinator, Laurie, by email at info@bayfieldtrails.com.
“She will gladly answer any questions you may have. If you decide to join, Laurie will obtain your contact information to be distributed to the other buddies. Your contact information will be shared only with the other hiking buddies and our hiking coordinators. We do not allow your personal info to be shared for marketing purposes,” concluded Blasting.
UNITED CHURCH
Quilting and a food bank event are happening at St. Andrew’s United Church.
On Sunday, July 17, St. Andrew’s will be hosting a special event in support of Blessings Community Store in Zurich: “Fill the Truck” for Blessings. They will have a truck parked out in front of the church ready to hold donated non-perishable items. Church members as well as anyone in the community who wishes to donate as part of St. Andrew’s outreach is welcome to participate.
The Tuesday Morning Quilters are happy to be able to gather again for quilting/coffee time on Tuesday mornings at St. Andrew’s. All are welcome to join in quilting at 9 a.m. or just drop in for coffee at 10 a.m.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in Bayfield.
PIONEER PARK SUMMER EVENTS
Pioneer Park is the place to be in July and August. Yoga, music and art events are all planned for the lazy, hazy days of summer!
“Yoga in the Park” is happening on Mondays and Thursdays throughout the summer months starting at 9 a.m. The last session is set for Monday, Sept. 5. Please note that there will be no Yoga on Civic Holiday Monday, Aug. 1st.
Pre-sunset concerts have begun as part of “ Music in the Park”. The Lakeview Mennonite Choir will perform on two Fridays during the summer: July 29 and Sept. 2. The remaining performers will entertain park goers on Saturday evenings: Phil Cook will provide music on July 16 and Aug. 27; Dave G. will be the performer on July 30; and Adam David Lang will share his talents on Aug. 13.
A favorite of park goers is returning this summer dates scheduled for “Paint the Sunset” with Robin Ellis. Canvas and water colors are provided for budding artists of all ages to use. The dates for “Paint the Sunset” are: Sunday, July 31, Saturday, Aug. 20 and Sunday, Sept. 4.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Summer is finally here and Rev. Lisa Dolson, of Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield, is offering people an opportunity to explore the big questions in life virtually!
People are invited to explore faith in Alpha online. Alpha sessions explore the big questions of life. It’s an opportunity to discover more about the Christian faith in a friendly space. Watch an episode on a topic of faith. Ask questions, share thoughts, or simply listen.
Participants will meet online via ZOOM every Thursday at noon. Individuals can access the ZOOM link on the church’s website at: Knox, Bayfield , call/text Rev. Dolson at 519-955-2158, or email knoxpcbayfield@gmail.com, to be added to the weekly email reminder.
Knox is also hosting a new virtual book discussion. It started on July 5th but it isn’t too late to join. The book is entitled, “Wholehearted Faith” by Rachel Held Evans with Jeff Chu. The talks will be held on Tuesdays starting at 2 p.m. and everyone is welcome to join the conversation.
Books can be ordered from The Village Bookshop, be sure to mention you are part of the group at the time of ordering. Please contact the minister for more information at the contact information listed above.
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.
Did you know that the Senate Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee has recently completed its review of Bill S-5, a bill to update the 1999 Canadian Environmental Protection Act? Many environmental and health groups, including Environmental Defence, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment and the David Suzuki Foundation, to name a few, are concerned that the Senate will weaken and delay this bill because industry groups lobbied the Senate to reverse the amendments recommended by the Committee. The bill is now waiting for final debate and vote in the full Senate.
What you can do…many of you already raised your voice and told your MPs that you wanted the Canadian Environmental Protection Act strengthened. The Senate listened by adding stronger amendments to the original legislation. But now, in light of industry lobbies, you need to speak out again. Contact your MP and ask him/her to listen once more – you and your children and grandchildren have a right to a healthy environment!
VETTEFEST BROKE ATTENDANCE RECORDS
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
After a COVID-related hiatus Bayfield Vettefest was back for its 14th year on July 8-9 and in all likelihood broke attendance records!
On Friday, July 8, Vettefest kicked off with a Cruise Night led by Brian Barnim. Over 90 vehicles participated in the cruise that left Clan Gregor Square and ventured out Varna way with a stop at Stone House Brewery. Participants noted that there were many spectators along the route that seemed to enjoy watching the vehicles drive by.
On Saturday, July 9, 330 corvettes filled almost every inch of Clan Gregor Square with about 20 more vehicles parked around the outside.
Organizers posted on social media that the weather was perfect and it was great to see old friends and some new people too! People went shopping in the village and enjoyed lunch inside the park and also enjoyed the village restaurants!
They extended thanks to everyone who donated prizes, the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society for the lunch booth and the Bayfield Lions Club for breakfast! They also thanked the Coping Centre for once again bringing the Raffle Vette and tickets! Organizers concluded by offering thanks to all of the volunteers who came out to assist in making Vettefest 2022 a success!
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(Photo by John Pounder)
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(Photo by John Pounder)
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(Photo by John Pounder)
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RESERVE A BUTTERFLY BY AUGUST 5TH
The Sixth Annual Huron Hospice Butterfly Release is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 28. The butterfly is a universal symbol of transformation and the release is a much anticipated event by families and children across Huron County. It is a beautiful way to honor and remember losses in the community and r
ecognize the important work being done at the Hospice. It is also an important annual fundraiser for Huron Hospice.
“For the first time in a few years we will be able to have the butterfly release as a live, in-person event. It is remarkable to watch butterflies spread their wings and migrate south with other butterflies. The butterfly release will take place in the garden behind the Huron Hospice Bender House,” said Executive Director of Huron Hospice, Willy Van Klooster. “We will hold the release at Huron Hospice Bender House so families and their loved ones can join in the event.”
Families are encouraged to remember a loved one or a family friend by releasing a butterfly in a special place. It could be on the Lake Huron shoreline or in a favorite park or garden. Make it a special day to feel closer to loved ones. Children will gain an appreciation for the meaning of transformation and the life cycle of migrating butterflies. In a way, it is representative of howHuron Hospice brings together members of the community who are going through similar experiences and have the same passion to support the cause.
Butterflies are important pollinators for flower gardens and fields. Gardeners, farmers, winemakers and brewers all rely on pollinators. The International Butterfly Breeders Association (IBBA) has done thorough research on butterfly releases and demonstrates that these events are safe. Butterflies that are released, retain their instinct to migrate. When they join the annual migration they can find the food and shelter they need as they have for hundreds of years. In addition, butterfly releases decrease the need for the use of insecticides and increase opportunities to educate schools and other organizations.
All are invited to please join Huron Hospice and participate in their Sixth Annual Butterfly Release. Butterflies can be purchased for $40. They are available on eventbrite.ca or by email at chris.walker@huronhospice.ca. The deadline for orders is Aug. 5th! Visit the Huron Hospice website at www.huronhospice.ca for purchasing and pick up times.
LEVEL ONE LOW WATER ADVISORY DECLARED
The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) Water Response Team (WRT) has declared a Level 1 Low Water Advisory for the entire ABCA watershed area. The WRT based its decision on the current watershed conditions, a relatively dry start to July, and very little precipitation in the long-range forecast. Water supplies in local aquifers and streams are forecast to decline through July.
The prolonged period of below-normal precipitation patterns will continue to impact streamflow and water availability, as water supplies are forecast to decline through July, according to Davin Heinbuck, ABCA Water Resources Coordinator.
“We have not observed any runoff since early June, and if we don’t see a return of wetter-than-normal weather, a recovery of the already stressed watershed will become more difficult as the summer goes on,” he said. “Even if normal precipitation patterns return, the ability of the watershed to rebound has been impacted.”
Plant and crop cover, combined with warm summer temperatures, means that less rainfall will become available to streamflow, according to Heinbuck.
WRT Chair Doug Cook said everyone has a role to play in water conservation. He encourages all water users to look for ways they can conserve water and prevent further reduction in water levels and availability through this summer.
“As we enter into a Level 1 Low Water Advisory condition, we are encouraging water users to be proactive in water conservation by voluntarily reducing their water use by 10 per cent,” he said.
For ideas on ways to reduce water use, please visit the water quantity and water conservation page at abca.ca by visiting here: conservation strategy
The WRT relies on both precipitation and streamflow indicators to support any decision to move into a Low Water Advisory. Indicators include one-month streamflow and one-month or three-month precipitation. A Level 1 Low Water Advisory includes a request for a 10 per cent voluntary reduction in water use. A Level 2 Low Water Advisory calls for an additional 10 per cent (for a total of 20 per cent) voluntary reduction in water use. A Level 3 Low Water Advisory may involve mandatory water use restrictions.
The WRT was formed in 2001 in response to the low water and drought conditions that year and the team has been active ever since. The WRT includes representatives of major water users (such as aggregate industries; agriculture and vegetable growers; and golf and recreation) and includes local municipal representatives and staff of provincial ministries (such as Natural Resources and Forestry; Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs; and Environment, Conservation and Parks). ABCA staff will continue to monitor rainfall and streamflow data and keep the public informed of any changes in watershed conditions.
Visit www.ontario.ca/lowwater for further resources on the Ontario low water response program or the website at abca.ca for the dynamic low-water advisory tool which alerts people to low-water advisories in effect in the watershed.
PAINT ONTARIO SET FOR SEPTEMBER
Paint Ontario, the largest show and sale of representational art in the province, returns to the Lambton Heritage Museum, Grand Bend, on Sept. 2.
This will be the 26th edition of this popular annual event that is eagerly anticipated by both the local community and art appreciators throughout the province. The show will run until Sept. 25.
This year’s show will be presented in a newly renovated space at the Lambton Heritage Museum. It will provide a unique opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their work and an unmatched opportunity for buyers to view and acquire it. Sculpture, which was featured for the first time in 2021 will again, literally, provide an additional dimension to the visitor experience.
“Perch’n’Paint”, a plein air competition on the weekend of Sept. 9-11, is among a number of complementary activities being planned to take place in the adjoining buildings and grounds of the Lambton Heritage Museum. These will include live demonstrations as well as “May We Come Together” a showcase for local not-for-profit and service organizations. Further details will be announced closer to the time.
Paint Ontario is organized by the Grand Bend Art Centre itself a registered not-for-profit community group.
“Our mission is to inspire creativity in the community,” said GBAC Executive Director Teresa Marie Phillips.
“Monies raised in sales commissions go straight back into cultural development within the community,” added GBAC President Nette Pachlarz.
Whether a regular visitor or new attendee, Paint Ontario’s 26th Show and Sale is an event not to be missed. Go to www.paintontario.com for further details and follow social media for the very latest news.
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
HERITAGE DAY
St. Joseph and Area Historical Society is hosting Heritage Day on Saturday, July 16 and visitors can expect to do a little bit of time travel from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
All are welcome to drop by the park at the corner of Hwy. 21 and Zurich-Hensall Road where society members will take guests on a guided walk through the streets of a model of the city, local visionary Narcisse Canton built circa 1900. Tours will run on the hour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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 July 4.
- Approved the request from the Bayfield Centre of the Arts to install sail boats at the following locations to represent the Helen McLeod and the Bayfield Boatyard vessels, while also honoring the marine history of Lake Huron: Howard Street beach access behind the posts on the right of the staircase; Colina Street at the Pioneer Park parking area, behind the rain garden; Mara Street walkway entrance (upper) on the Bayfield Terrace, in the garden on the left; the Mara Walkway entrance (lower) set in the ground cover to the right of the walkway; Long Hill Road, on the right, near the staircase and DFO sign; and Long Hill Road at the entrance to the pier on the right of the gates.
- Accepted the Recreation Master Plan Project Update as presented by Danielle Lenarcic Biss and Leandra Correale Ferguson from Thinc Design as information.
- Adopted By-law 73-2022, Being a By-law authorizing the Mayor and Clerk to enter into a 9-1-1 Service Agreement with the County of Huron.
- Exempted Zurich Bean Festival from the Hawkers and Peddlers By-law, as amended, and temporarily permits food trucks and vendors to park and operate for the sale of food at the annual Zurich Bean Festival at the municipal office parking lot and other locations around Zurich as per Zurich Bean Festival Committee plans.
- Directed staff to notify the Mid-Huron Board that the Municipality of Bluewater would like to move forward with the expansion requirements investigation and requested staff to bring back a report to Council with the cost estimates and the draft cost sharing agreement.
BETTER TOGETHER GALA
Brian O’Reilly is set to be the keynote speaker at the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre (HCFBDC) Ninth Annual Better Together Gala in Clinton on Thursday Aug. 4.
The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with the program to start at 6:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6:45 p.m. Pineridge Barbecue Co, of Hensall, will be catering the gala.
The cost is $75 per person. Tables of 10 can be reserved for $750. Tickets can be ordered by contacting the HCFBDC office at 519 913-2362 or ordered online by clicking here: gala tickets. More information is available by visiting the gala event page.
HEALTHCARE CAMP
Thirty high school students will be exploring healthcare careers at Camp Klahanie, located just south of Goderich, during the week of July 11-15. Led by three Western medical students, they’ll be suturing teddy bears, learning to apply a cast, and taking part in other activities. The week-long camp exposes students to healthy living habits while teaching them about careers in rural healthcare. With an urgent shortage of healthcare workers in Ontario, exposing young talent to the field is more important than ever.
Discovery Healthcare Camp is hosted by Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) in partnership with Alexandra Marine General Hospital (AMGH) and Schulich School of Medicine Western University.
“It is no secret we are facing a severe shortage of healthcare professionals across the county, and this is recruitment at its very best,” said AMGH Physician Recruitment Lead Gwen Devereaux. “Several professionals working in healthcare locally attended this camp when it was offered in the past. We are so proud that Goderich is hosting this camp for the first time.”
A huge thank you to the Goderich Lions Club for providing a beautiful location for a fun week. Sponsorship is provided by the Town of Goderich, Goderich IODE, Rotary Club of Goderich, Larry Otten Construction and Orr Insurance.
LET’S HAVE A PARTY
July 2022 is Huron Hospice – Let’s Have a Party month. “Let’s Have a Party” is an exciting new way to connect with friends and neighbors and an ideal way to have a charitable impact.
Current world circumstances have allowed people to re-evaluate their priorities. The “great reset” helped many people realize that it is possible to do good things, help the community, and have fun at the same time. One example is the Huron Hospice – Let’s Have a Party. Throughout July, people can invite friends to an event with the understanding that the event is a fundraiser for Huron Hospice. It could be a cocktail party, a dinner, a BBQ, a themed event or even a lakeside social.
Donations from the event will help cover a day of operations at Huron Hospice.
“Huron Hospice needs $1,000 a day to cover operations. The government covers half of hospice residence operations annually. We ask the community to fund the other half, $1,000 each day. In July, we are asking 30 people to have a party – a social gathering and raise $1,000. When this happens, Huron Hospice will finance operations for the month,” said Willy Van Klooster, Executive director at Huron Hospice.
He went on to explain further, “When you have a social gathering with 50, you would ask people to contribute $20; 20 people would donate $50. Ten guests at a dinner party would contribute $100. The result is the same; these gifts will cover nursing and other programs and maintenance of the hospice residence for a day. A member of the Hospice board of directors is hosting a Lakeside Social at their cottage. They will invite 50 people to visit for sandwiches, snacks, and summer conversation at the cottage. When they invite people, they will ask everyone to give $20. Collectively the Lakeside Social will contribute $1,000 to Hospice operations.”
People choose to support Huron Hospice for many reasons. It could be the in-home care and respite offered by a trained volunteer. It could be personal experience in the hospice residence or grief recovery support for someone who has experienced a loss.
For anyone who would like to host a Huron Hospice, Let’s Party event, Huron Hospice is available to help. They will provide electronic or printed pamphlets about Hospice, issue tax receipts, and send a thank-you note for donations over $20.
To learn more, contact Van Klooster by calling 519 525-6856 or by email at willy.vanklooster@huronhospice.ca.
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.
Remarkable Citizens
THOMPSON PRESENTS AWARDS
Editor’s Note: In place of the usual Remember This Section over the next few issues we will be showcasing the 2020 and 2021 Remarkable Citizens for Bayfield.
Member of Provincial Parliament for Huron Bruce Lisa Thompson has honored area residents with Remarkable Citizen Awards in the two counties for a number of years during her annual New Year’s Levee. These awards recognize and celebrate individuals for being dedicated, respected community leaders and volunteers and for the impact they make on their community.
Thompson invites members of the community to nominate individuals for the awards with a request for submissions in December each year. The COVID-19 pandemic put both the 2020 and 2021 presentations on hold, but fortunately an opportunity to present the Bayfield area recipients with their awards availed itself to Thompson when she was invited to take part in the official opening of Admiral Bayfield Square on Saturday, July 9. As a result, the approximately 90 people gathered for the opening ceremony had the added pleasure of recognizing and applauding their own!
Honored as remarkable citizens were: Don McIlwain, Brad Turner and Jessica Petelle, Leslee Squirrell, John Marshall and Jim Tyo. Over the course of the next few issues the Bayfield Breeze will feature all of the recipients by sharing their nomination letter beginning this week with a fixture of the village: Don McIlwain.
DON MCILWAIN: REMARKABLE CITIZEN
Everyone in the Bayfield and area probably has a story about how Don Mcllwain, the owner of Bayfield Garage, has helped them in an emergency, pulled their car out of a snowbank late at night or how he has been a significant supporter of their volunteer organization. If it’s to help in the community, Don is always there.
In his own quiet, unassuming way, Don has been one of the most generous supporters and donors to the Bayfield Optimist Club for the past 28 years.
In 2001, Don was recognized as Bayfield’s Citizen of the Year by the Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce. Here is what the Chamber had to say about Don, “Mr. Mcllwain is a good example of what is good in the community of Bayfield. He is always willing to help those in need through his strong financial support, including: youth sporting teams, Scouts, and the ‘Christmas in Bayfield’ celebration.”
The Bayfield Lions Club honored Don with the ‘Helen Keller Award’ in appreciation for his strong charitable presence in the community. When he was presented with the award, it was noted that the award was not so much for a single outstanding contribution, but for his many years of being the go-to person whenever the Bayfield Lions Club had a special need.
Don Mcllwain is a great choice to be recognized as a “Remarkable Citizen”!
Don McIlwain listens to MPP Lisa Thompson as she shares his nomination letter for the Remarkable Citizen Award at a ceremony held at Admiral Bayfield Square on Saturday afternoon. (Photo by Jack Pal)
MPP Lisa Thompson offers congratulations to Don McIlwain during the award presentation. (Photo by John Pounder)
PIONEER PARK ASSOCIATION
A SALUTE TO TEAM RUMMAGE
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There is no more appropriate event than the Pioneer Park Rummage Sale to use the old adage, “It takes a village”. Here many of the 100 plus volunteers gathered prior to opening to pose for posterity.
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
There is no more appropriate event than the Pioneer Park Rummage Sale to use the old adage, “It takes a village”. Since 1948, and despite a two year pandemic necessitated hiatus, the community has come together for this fundraiser in support of the beautiful lakeside greenspace known as Pioneer Park The first convenor of the sale, Catherine Rankin and the many volunteers that joined her, would have had no idea that an event they started more than seven decades ago would still be flourishing today with the support of 100 plus volunteers and that perhaps the biggest and best sale of all would happen in 2022.
Following the cancellation of both the 2020 and 2021 events, people had literally tons of treasures to donate, stay tuned for next week’s Bayfield Breeze (Issue 680) to bear witness to all the items and the buying frenzy that ensued when the ribbon was cut on the access to the outside sale and the doors flung open to the arena floor.
This issue we offer an homage to the volunteers who made the 73rd Pioneer Park Rummage Sale run with military precision while still having heaps of fun!
Catherine Tillmann, one of the sale’s convenors, said: “Thank you to all the folks who helped take in thousands of donations at the Quonset Hut. Thank you to the people who sorted and packed boxes and transported everything to the arena. Thank you to the volunteer crews who set up the displays, priced and sold their wares. Thanks also to the tear down crew. The clean up was a breeze with so many helpful hands.
“We should also thank the Reder Family, the Bayfield Agricultural Society, and local and area merchants for their support. A special shout out to Brad and Melissa Maidment at Bayfield Foodland, who donated all of the wieners and buns for the barbecue, and to Nick Howell and John Thornton for their perfect grilling skills.”
She concluded by sharing her thanks “to this outstanding community and all the volunteers who stepped up to make this our biggest and best Rummage Sale ever.”
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Baking: Lynne Price and Melanie Steadman.
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Draperies: Paula Peirce and Dorothy Griffin. (Photo by Jack Pal)
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Linens: Sue Easden and Shelley Easden. (Photo by Jack Pal)
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Outdoors: Leslee Squirrell and Jack Pal.
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Christmas: June Webster and Marlene Watkins.
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Finance: Margaret Stevenson, Richard Tillmann and Trudy Book.
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Security: Karl Dean and Joe Hirschigger.
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Kitchen: Maryanna McGowan, Joanna Baggio and Claire Trepenier. (Photo by John Pounder)
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Toys and Games: Jenny Shanahan.
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Pictures and Baskets: Grace Koehler, Mary Thomson and Willy Simpson.
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Outdoor Pad: Kathy Wilson, Pam Bowers, Judy Mayell and Susan Wattam.
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
Looking for something fun to do with the family without venturing too far afield this summer? Look no further than your own backyard, well maybe a little further, cause we’ve been there done that the last couple of summers, haven’t we?
In fact, an activity that was brought to my attention this week is inspired by the “In Your Backyard” virtual series that the Huron County Library and Ontario’s West Coast team put together during the pandemic.
This summer they have partnered to present the “In Your Backyard Scavenger Hunt” a contest that encourages people to get out and explore some of the county’s hidden gems while trying for some terrific prizes including a weekend get-away package valued at over $1,400. I don’t know about you but I think there may be a road trip or two in my future summer plans. I mean who doesn’t want to see and learn more about the Fairy Door Trail in Brussels or the 150th Celebration Garden in Gorrie?
Taking part is pretty simple – entry sheets can be downloaded by clicking: here or pick up a copy from a local library branch. Then visit a minimum of 10 of the 15 sites found across Huron, answering a question specific to each location. Answers can be found at each location and written beneath each photo on the sheet.
Organizers would also like participants to share photos of their travel experiences by tagging @HuronCountyLibrary and @OntariosWestCoast on social media. Entries are limited to one per person and must be dropped off at or emailed to any library branch by noon on Friday, Sept. 2. For full contest rules and a lot more info visit: Summer Giveaway.
I’ve always wanted to visit the Alice Munro Literary Garden in Wingham and the “In Your Backyard Scavenger Hunt” sounds like the perfect incentive. Whatever you choose to do this summer may it include some of the wonderful things our home county has to offer. Hope to see you out and about! – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.