Pharmasave
bayfield breeze issue

The Bayfield BreezeIssue 680 Week 30 Vol 14

July 20, 2022

2545 views

Issue 680 Week 30 Vol 14
Print Friendly, PDF & Email

FAIR BOOK READY FOR EXHIBITORS

butterfly-gcef54975b_1920

The Bayfield Community Fair is 166 years young and organizers invite everyone to “put the Fair in your summer plans”! (Photo courtesy Pixabay)

image_123923953

Fair Book now available. (Submitted photo)


The launching of the Fair Book, a reimagined parade and a Poultry Show are just a few of the highlights to be shared this issue by the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) with regards to the 166th Bayfield Community Fair.

The Fair Book is now available for the event to be held Aug 19-21. All exhibitors are encouraged to carefully read the Fair Book for information on entry deadlines, forms, fees, special category requirements, judging criteria, and prizes.

The online version of the book can be downloaded here: 2022 Fair Book. Hard copies are also available at the Bayfield Public Library, the Bayfield Convenience Store, craft and quilt shops in the area, and the Goderich Public Library, as well as Elizabeth’s Art Gallery and Peavey Mart in Goderich.

With Main Street still under construction, the parade that residents and visitors are accustomed to will not be possible this year. In its place, the BAS is resurrecting an old tradition that dates back to the 1940s and 1950s when school children marched to the fairgrounds led by a band. With that in mind, the “parade reimagined” for this year will form up at Clan Gregor Square by 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20. Children with their parents and grandparents are invited to join the walking procession led by a pipe band as they make their way to the fairgrounds at 11 a.m.. The BAS encourages kids – and those young at heart – to dress up in costumes. Strollers and wagons can be decorated for the occasion too. The “Blossoms, Butterflies & Bees” theme of this year’s Fair should provide lots of ideas for costumes and decorations. This is a great opportunity for the community to have some fun with the occasion!

New things to look for at the fair this year: honey and maple syrup are new categories. There is sure to be some good competition to find out who has the best products in the area. This is the first year in a long while for a Poultry Show. Exhibitors across the County and beyond will be bringing their large fowl, bantams, waterfowl, turkeys, pigeons, and rabbits. There will be over 100 classes! The Poultry Show will include a Junior section open to exhibitors 16 years of age and under. A new display this year will demonstrate how the raw fur of alpacas can be turned into a saleable product. The Huron County Museum will be bringing objects for the “What Is It?” tent this year.

The Fair organizers are pleased to report that some volunteers have started to come forward, but more are needed for the work of putting on a fair of this size. 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.

DO FENCE ME IN

The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) held an old-fashioned work bee on Thursday, July 14 to remove and replace the damaged fencing along the Victoria Street boundary of the agricultural grounds. New fencing was needed to contain and prevent injury to any potential runaway horses at the Bayfield Community Fair. In these images: Surveyor Preston Jamieson and BAS President Vicky Culbert mark posthole positions and BAS Secretary Doug Yeo tightens T-post fence supports. (Submitted photos)


DONATION DATES FOR BOOK SALE ANNOUNCED

The Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) annual book sale at the Bayfield Public Library is a “Go” this year! Aug. 18-20 are the dates for one of the largest and best curated book sales in Huron County, offering books for all age groups and reading preferences, ensuring something for everyone!

The book sale dates and times are as follows: Thursday, Aug. 18,  4-6:30 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 19 and Saturday, Aug. 20, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. both days.

Weather permitting, some of the tables will be outside to help relieve any congestion inside the library. Social distancing measures will be in effect during the sale.

As in past years, FOBL depends on the generous donations of gently used books, games, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs from the community to make the sale a success. The donation drop-off dates and times are listed below. Please note, FOBL has new donation restrictions on what can and cannot be accepted. Anyone wishing to donate items for the sale should visit www.FOBL.ca to view or download the Donation Guidelines. Paper copies of the Donation Guidelines are also available at the library.

The donation drop-off dates and times are: Saturday, Aug. 13, Monday, Aug. 15 and Wednesday, Aug. 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Tuesday, Aug. 16,  4-7 p.m.

People are kindly asked to store books and other donation items at home until the drop-off dates. Please do not drop off or leave boxes of donation items outside the library as there is no space to store them.

Volunteers are needed! Anyone with an hour or two available to help with receiving and sorting books before the book sale or on the book sale dates is most welcome. Please email FOBL at contact@fobl.ca.

FOBL looks forward to welcoming everyone back to the book sale after a two-year absence!

FEEL GOOD REGGAE COMING TO TOWN HALL

Lazo photo

Lazo (Submitted photo)


The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society has two more concerts remaining this summer sure to ignite some excitement among music lovers of all genres!

Lazo will take to the outdoor stage at the Bayfield Town Hall on Saturday, July 30. This Juno award winning artist exudes a “feel-good” Reggae vibe whenever he hits the stage with his “Exodus Show tribute to Bob Marley”.  With his combination of reggae rhythms, beautiful melodies, and conscious lyrics, audience goers say he has the uncanny ability to connect with any crowd.

The Bayfield Town Hall and the Bayfield Agricultural Society are joining forces to host a Rock Revival at the Bayfield Fairgrounds during the Bayfield Community Fair on Saturday, Aug. 20th.  This concert will feature two bands. The Stones Tribute Show will bring to life favorite Rolling Stones songs and Thunderstruck will take the stage in tribute to AC/DC.

For both of these outdoor shows, tickets cost $30 and participants are asked to bring their own chair. The gates will open at 6 pm. and the performers will take to the stage at 7 p.m. Please note Lazo is performing at the town hall while the tribute bands will play in Agricultural Park.

There will be a cash bar at both of the shows and tickets for both  are available now online at www.bayfieldtownhall.com. Please note there are no additional surcharges.

GENTLE GIANT IN NEED OF A HOME

293349932_598967464926235_4058634800726950247_n

Moose (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.

Moose is the Adopt a BFF cat of the week.

Deb Penhale, representing the BFF, says that many people ask for updates about Moose and so she is excited to let everyone know that he is ready for his forever home!

Moose is a big guy who was trapped by a person trying to catch a raccoon. They brought him to the Rescue. When he first arrived he was very shut down and quite timid. Fortunately, BFF was able to get him to the vet quickly for his neuter, at which time they discovered his tail was broken in at least seven places. The pain Moose must have been in! As a result of this discovery his tail was amputated.

Penhale noted that “even with everything he went through and all the pain he was in it didn’t take him long to warm up and now he has become the biggest cuddle bug.”

She shared that he loves attention and adores being petted. He is super easy-going with other cats. He is truly a gentle giant.

Anyone who would like to meet Moose is 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.

LIONS HOST SUMMER BINGO

PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

Known best for their fabulous Turkey Bingo events in December the Bayfield Lions Club is added to their repertoire by hosting a Summer Bingo on Saturday, July 16 downstairs in the Bayfield Arena.

In celebration of their 75th anniversary, this event featured both regular and share-the-wealth games – sorry, there wasn’t any poultry this time around!


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.

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.

FIREWORKS DISPLAY

In 2019 on the August long weekend, hundreds of people gathered along the shore and in Pioneer Park to watch a fireworks display. This community driven event by a group of individuals known as the “Friends of Bayfield Fireworks Show” were responsible for the event and they are planning to bring it back for 2022. July 30th is the date!

Permissions are now in place with both the Municipality of Bluewater and the federal government to allow the professionally presented display by NorthStar Fireworks to be set off from the south pier and members of the Bayfield Area Fire Department will be on hand to ensure safety.

Organizers are hoping local residents, and businesses, will consider contributing to the cost of the display. Their goal is to have 100 contributors make a $100 donation but any amount would be happily accepted. They are hoping families will come to the beach and enjoy the show that will begin when darkness falls after 9 p.m.

To learn more about the event and how best to donate please email: bayfieldfireworks@gmail.com.

UKULELE SOCIETY

For the summer months, the Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS) will be jamming outdoors in Clan Gregor Square twice a week.

Members of the BUS will be meeting Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m., weather permitting. All are welcome!

Folks are invited to come sing and dance along to songs from the 1960s, 70s and 80s.  And if anyone has a ukulele, they can join in on the strumming too!

RATEPAYERS’ AGM

The Bayfield Ratepayers’ Association (BRA) will be hosting their Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Bayfield Community Centre on Saturday, July 30.

In anticipation of their AGM, the BRA Board is looking for some additional directors to help with the issues facing the village’s ratepayers in the coming years. Anyone interested in volunteering to stand for a position on the Board is asked to please notify Secretary Dave MacLaren by emailing dpmaclaren@gmail.com. 

In addition to the election of directors at the meeting, another topic that may be of interest to those in the community is a discussion regarding Bayfield’s Secondary Plan.

The AGM will commence at 10 a.m. and all in the community are welcome.

PIONEER PARK AGM

Saturday, Aug. 13 is the date set for the Pioneer Park Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2022.

The AGM will be held from 10 a.m. to noon in Pioneer Park (rain location Bayfield Lions Community Building, 6 Municipal Road). Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair.

For further information please email: info@pioneerpark.ca.

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.

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

On Sunday, July 17, St. Andrew United Church hosted a special event in support of Blessings Community Store in Zurich and they are pleased to report that their “Fill the Truck” for Blessings was a success.  They would like to thank everyone who contributed non-perishable items as part of this outreach initiative.

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 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

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.


CELLO MUSIC

Cellist Danuta Wyant performed a mid-day concert in the serene surroundings of The Village Bookshop garden on Saturday, July 16th. The music wafting out along the street attracted a small crowd of, no doubt, delighted, listeners. (Submitted photos)

IMG_0918

IMG_0922

NEW BUSINESS

PRETTY STORE FOR PET PARENTS OPENS

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

People who take a stroll along the streets in Bayfield will no doubt notice a village phenomenon – lots of residents out for a walk with their dogs in tow – or being towed by their dogs – depending on the breed.

Therefore the addition of a new business on Main Street should be cause for some wagging tails and happy barks from the canine community as Bayfield Pet Corner has opened at 19 Bayfield Main Street.  Access to the store can be found off The Village Guild Shoppes courtyard. (Follow the signs!) Of course, Bayfield Pet Corner is not just for dogs – cats are loved equally here too.

Mariana Gamez, of Seaforth, opened the business on the Victoria Day weekend and received a welcoming reception.

“We had a good opening weekend and it was very exciting,” said Gamez. “Customers were commenting that ‘Bayfield needed this’ and that they were happy I came to town. I do hope that people come in and make suggestions as to what they would like to see in the store, specific toys or foods. I will do my best to help or get them something similar. I like to be knowledgeable about my products so that I can pass this information on to my customers.”

Gamez noted that her family has a background in animal care and this combined with her love for animals and customer service inspired her to open the store.

The family moved to Seaforth from Mississauga, ON three years ago. Her husband, Roy Alvarez, owns and operates RYM General Construction in Seaforth.  The couple have three children, Roy, 10; Rebecca, 9: and Regina (pronounced Rejina), 6. And of course, they have two French Bulldogs, Luna and Rocky. When Gamez first moved to Seaforth she worked at the Foodland grocery store there.

“It was a great way for a newcomer to get to know the community,” she said. “But I always wanted to own my own business. It was a friend that suggested I open a pet store.”

Bayfield Pet Corner may be in a small space (formerly Huron Fireplaces) but it is packed with all kinds of unique, interesting items as well as quality pet food and treats.

Gamez carries two brands of dog food, FROMM Family and Pulsar.   FROMM Family products are made by a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin while Pulsar is a Canadian brand.

“Dogs deserve to eat healthy food that offers complete nutrition,” she said. “It was a local resident that asked if I could stock FROMM Family  products and I am happy to be able to carry them.”

Gamez also hopes to promote other entrepreneurs by carrying their unique products in the store as well as highlighting Mexican artisans. Gamez came to Canada with her family at the age of eight and has familial connections to the country.

She carries dog collars and harnesses for large dogs that are handcrafted in Mexico as well as an assortment of exquisitely beaded clay-sculpted canines that are sure to brighten any dog-lover’s home decor.

She also carries an assortment of cookies just for dogs from The Barkery in Stratford and harnesses and leashes by Fluffy Pooch.

And in keeping with the seasonal needs of the community the store sells specialty life jackets in all sizes so that  pooches can enjoy time on the water safely with their humans.

After the summer, Gamez is planning to create an online store to allow customers even more opportunities to shop for all their pet needs but for now she can be found on Instragram @bayfieldpetcorner or on Facebook at Bayfield Pet Corner. Currently, Bayfield Pet Corner is open weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.


HELP PROTECT GREAT LAKES DURING PLASTIC FREE JULY

STORY BY RAY LETHEREN AND BETTY DURST

Many people will watch the sunset over majestic Lake Huron over the course of the summer. It is likely that during those times little thought is given to what is below the surface of the lake, a body of water that supplies 45 million people with fresh water for consumption. Countless aquatic species also depend on these waters for their survival.

The Great Lakes are also a reservoir for waste, beneath the surface, unseen by those admiring the sunset, a crisis of significant magnitude exists.  Some 35 threats to the waters have been identified in multiple studies; not the least of which is plastic.

Some 10,000 tonnes or 22 million pounds (60 single use bottles weigh one pound) of plastic enter the lakes every year and this unwelcomed contribution has been accumulating for well over 50 years.  This plastic comes from industrial production and human carelessness.  Every bottle, fishing line, plastic bag, beer can holder, straw or coffee cup lid adds to the problem. And plastic is making its way into our water, food, and the air we breathe. It is in our fish, wildlife, and our bodies.

By year’s end, the Federal government will impose restrictions on some single-use plastic products. However, many products such as single-use water bottles are not on the list.

Today (July 20), as part of Plastic Free July and their social media day of action,  Environmental Defence encourages all of the 45 million residents of the Great Lakes region to contact their elected officials to act to protect the lakes from this major threat known as single-use plastics.  Blue Bayfield supports this initiative.

Plastic does not biodegrade.  The Great Lakes contain twice the plastic per square kilometre than the oceans. Blue Bayfield encourages the  extension of the ban on single-use plastic to include drinking containers. Let’s support reusable packaging.  Elected officials at all levels must know people care: Federal – Minister of the Environment: Steven Guilbeault, email Steven.Guilbeault@parl.gc.ca; Provincial – Huron Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, email  lisa.thompsonco@pc.ola.org; and Municipal, Mayor of Bluewater, Paul Klopp, email pklopp@municipalityofbluewater.ca.

To the credit of Bayfield, it took the lead in becoming plastic free.  The majority of restaurants and citizens endorsed the efforts to rid the village of unnecessary single use plastics. Bayfield became the first community in North America to be recognized as plastic free.  It received national and international recognition for this endeavor.  To support this effort, Blue Bayfield, and sponsors, installed five stations for refilling bottles with water throughout the village.

Blue Bayfield recently released a book about the threats to the lakes, entitled, “The Great Lakes: A Time of Reckoning”. Print copies of the book are available at The Village Bookshop and online at www.bluebayfield.ca.

Perhaps the philosophy of Indigenous people should be heeded. First Nations recognize the sacredness of water, the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of protecting water from pollution, drought and waste. Water is the giver of all life and without clean water all life will perish.

COVID-19 BOOSTER ELIGIBILITY EXPANDED

On July 13, the Ontario government announced that it is expanding eligibility for second booster doses of COVID-19 vaccine to all Ontarians aged 18 and over.  Those newly eligible individuals were able to make an appointment starting on Thursday, July 14.

A second booster will provide an extra layer of protection to those who choose to be vaccinated and is now also recommended for individuals aged 18 and over who are moderately to severely immunocompromised. Groups who were already eligible and recommended to receive a second booster dose include those aged 60 and over; residents of long-term care homes, retirement homes, and Elder Care Lodges; older adults in congregate living settings; and First Nation, Inuit and Métis individuals and their non-Indigenous household members aged 18 and over.

Second booster doses are being offered at an interval of five months after an individual receives their first booster dose.

Ontario is experiencing a seventh wave of COVID-19, driven by the BA.5 subvariant of Omicron. People who have not yet received their first booster dose are reminded that the first booster dose is especially important as COVID-19 transmission is elevated in Ontario.  Protection after a primary COVID-19 vaccine series (two doses for most people) decreases over time, especially against the Omicron variant. COVID-19 vaccine booster doses help to increase protection against symptomatic infection and severe outcomes at the individual level, and help to reduce transmission at the population level.

Expanded second booster dose eligibility allows people to make a decision based on their personal circumstances. Individuals who are unsure whether a second booster dose is right for them at this time should speak to their healthcare provider.

“COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide the best protection against severe illness, hospitalization and death,” said Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth, Dr. Miriam Klassen.   “A booster provides additional protection after immunity has decreased, especially for those who are more vulnerable to severe illness.  Stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations by receiving all doses recommended, based on your age and health status.”  See Staying Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines: Recommended Doses for more information.

Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has scheduled additional COVID-19 vaccination clinics in the next two weeks and will continue to offer clinics over the summer.

People can find dates and locations for HPPH vaccination clinics by clicking here: Get Vaccinated. Clinics are by appointment only.  Pregnant individuals and children ages five to 11 can walk into any HPPH clinic.

Book an appointment for an HPPH clinic online by clicking here: Book Vaccination;  by calling the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900; or by calling the HPPH booking line at 1-833-753-2098 – Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

COVID-19 vaccinations are also still available through some pharmacies and primary care providers.

A reminder that mask use continues in HPPH clinical services and HPPH public areas, including on-site and community vaccine clinics. HPPH staff will be masked, and they ask everyone who attends to wear a mask. Masks will be available for use.

In addition, people are asked to please not attend a vaccine clinic if they are feeling unwell, have a fever or COVID-19 symptoms, are waiting for COVID-19 test results, or  are isolating.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19, or tests positive for the virus, is required to isolate. Visit Ontario.ca/exposed or call the toll-free Provincial Testing and Isolation Information Line at 1-888-777-0730 for more information.

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

GRAND SPARKS

Jay

Jay McFarlan having fun at a camp held in 2018. (Submitted photo)


Grand Sparks summer camp is a one-of-a-kind summer day camp for kids and their grandparents to experience all the fun things that summer camps traditionally offer. After a multi-year hiatus because of COVID-19, the camp ran from July 18-22 at the Edge of Walton Challenge Course in Walton, ON.

The purpose of the camp was to strengthen relationships between grandparents and grandchildren through physical play and nutritional education. This camp featured a wide array of physical activities including high ropes, biking, canoeing and even yoga! These activities were sure to push grandchildren and grandparents alike out of their comfort zones and to develop important skills such as trust, confidence and teamwork.

Meal preparation was a key aspect of this camp as well since it promotes the passing down of knowledge to the grandchildren and fostering a deepened connection. With unique meals that are fun and nutritious, organizers hope that the grandchildren will find a new interest and hobby with their grandparents that will continue long after camp is over. Some of the interesting meals that were prepared at this year’s camp were: Taco in a Bag, Fish in Foil and Pita Pockets.

This year’s camp organizers included: Jay McFarlan, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway); Brett Lee and Melody Hodgson, Edge of Walton; and the addition of Cameron Brenner, a Gateway summer student. Together they believe they have developed a camp that is similar to past years, but with some new flair, that will strengthen relationships between generations.

To learn more about the Grand Sparks summer camp, and other projects that aim to improve quality of life for rural residents, please visit: www.gatewayruralhealth.ca

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.

PAINT ONTARIO

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.

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. In Issue 679, Don McIlwain was recognized, this week, the focus is on Brad Turner and Jessica Petelle.

BRAD TURNER AND JESSICA PETELLE: REMARKABLE CITIZENS

We are blessed to live in a community where people have a wide range of talents and a desire to give back to the community. In the case of our nominees, they not only have internationally recognized talent, but are driven to contribute to the arts and culture of our community. Brad and Jessica recognize that arts and culture enrich the vibrancy of the community as well as its economic base. They have an established home in Bayfield where they spend as much of the year as their illustrious careers will permit.

Bayfield native, Brad Turner is an award-winning Executive Producer/Director, having over 400 episodes of iconic and compelling dramatic television to his credit. Brad gained global acclaim in 2005 while directing the CBC miniseries, “Human Cargo”, which won several Canadian Screen Awards, including Best Director. During his five-year tenure as a director and supervising producer of the hit series “24”, Brad directed 46 episodes, and in Season Five, Brad and the show won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series.

Jessica Petelle is a Director and a Producer of film, television, and digital content. Her 2016 debut film, “All Good”, world premiered at Palm Springs International ShortFest in 2017. Her second short film, “Ellie & Sam” was filmed in Bayfield in 2017 and premiered at the Vancouver Women in Film Festival the following year. She was also selected by HBO as one of ten emerging directors to participate in the prestigious 2020 HBOACCESS Directing Fellowship.

In October 2020, Brad and Jessica were instrumental in arranging for Bayfield to be the movie set for “Trigger Point”, a feature film starring Barry Pepper and Colm Feore. Brad served as Executive Producer and Director.  Jessica was an Executive Producer and Director of the 2nd Unit/Action Unit of the film.

And from the outset, they have both also been strong supporters of the Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) having been two of its founding directors.

Their vision and creative talents will leave a lasting legacy in the community. Thank you for sharing your talent and passion for the arts with our community!

IMG_5281

Jessica Petelle and Brad Turner listen to MPP Lisa Thompson as she shares their nomination letter for the Remarkable Citizen Award at a ceremony held at Admiral Bayfield Square on Saturday, July 9. (Photo by Jack Pal)

IMG_0993

Jessica Petelle and Brad Turner (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


PIONEER PARK ASSOCIATION

RUMMAGE SALE BIGGEST TO DATE

52208040215_676d3a02ca_k

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

The 73rd Pioneer Park Rummage Sale and Silent Auction, held on Friday, July 8,  is now a part of history but it will long be remembered in the annals of time as being the biggest and best to date.

Following the cancellation of both the 2020 and 2021 events, people had literally tons  of treasures to donate and donate they did. One hundred-plus volunteers sorted and priced the thousands of items that filled both the arena floor and a large section of the outdoors.  In a conscious effort to provide extra space for people to shop more comfortably, an unprecedented number of things were moved onto the agricultural park grounds including a huge selection of household furniture. Thankfully the weather cooperated.

And then when the appointed hour arrived the ribbon was cut on the access to the outside sale and the buying frenzy ensued. Thirty minutes later the doors to the arena floor were flung open and the process began anew with the addition of about 200 unique Silent Auction items that took centre stage enticing people to try their luck by bidding.

For a closer look at these images click on any one to open a pop up gallery.

PIXILATED

 IMAGE OF THE WEEK

52213648942_c15d141d70_o

Window Box Family Portrait…By Sarah Leitch

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

Image of Melody Falconer-Pounder

51854912498_7d52e952ba_k

Melody Falconer-Pounder

I learned something new about corn this week. In drought conditions it can start to resemble the top of a pineapple. My husband told me about this curious occurrence as we were driving up Orchard Line past a few thirsty fields. This was a new concept for me despite being raised on a farm where we grew plenty of corn for our hungry herd of both beef and dairy cows. I had to learn more.

According to an article published on the “Progressive Farmer” website, what we are witnessing is some clever corn biology at work – a throwback to its early days as a tropical Mexican plant if you will.

During a growing season with an abundance of rain, water is constantly flowing through the corn stalk. The website explains that the moisture enters from the roots, flows through the vascular system and ultimately exits through small holes in the corn leaf, known as stomates.

Within the leaf tissue, large cells inflate with water like tiny bladders. When they are full, the leaf is flat and healthy looking.

When the flow weakens and the roots aren’t bringing in enough water, moisture is drawn out of the plant leaf and the little bladders deflate and contract causing the leaf to roll inward, tensing up to look like a pineapple. This process slows moisture loss and although this action may afford the corn some time the only real solution for the plant’s survival is a good soaking rain.

As I was researching and writing about corn resembling tropical fruit it started to gently rain. The first significant amount for our farm since Canada Day, I think. Let’s hope it continues allowing the corn, and our farming friends, an opportunity to both relax a bit. – Melody

Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.