The Bayfield BreezeIssue 686 Week 36 Vol 14
August 31, 2022
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SECONDARY PLAN UNDER REVIEW BY CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The first draft of the Bayfield Secondary Plan is under review of the Citizen Advisory Committee. Initiated in 2020 but stalled due to the pandemic, the Secondary Plan has been under development for the past two years and is a document that will help to manage change within the Village. Bluewater Council received the first draft at their August 2022 meeting and concurred with staff’s recommendation to proceed to Committee and then, public consultation.
Here are a few of the key changes and recommendations under discussion:
- New ‘Mixed Use Arterial’ designation along Hwy 21 and Mill Road permitting highway commercial uses, community facilities and higher density residential;
- Enhanced protection of existing natural areas;
- Identification of new park spaces through use of unopened road allowances;
- Formal call for update to Heritage Conservation District Plan (approved in 1984) to manage aesthetic change along Main Street North and Clan Gregor Square;
- Permit wider range of dwelling types (ie. semi-detached, triplex and quadraplex) within established neighborhoods based on character area;
- Require newly developing areas to achieve minimum density targets to ensure efficient use of land and avoid unnecessary expansions of Settlement Area onto surrounding farmland.
Amendments to the first draft will respond to Citizen Advisory Committee feedback and then the draft Secondary Plan will be made available to the public through Open House format and a more formal Public Meeting.
Please keep an eye out for more information on the Secondary Plan in the coming weeks.
Questions? Please email Denise Van Amersfoort, manager of Planning, at dvanamersfoort@huroncounty.ca or speak to a member of the Citizen Advisory Committee. A list of the committee members can be found on the website: Planned Bayfield.
What is a Secondary Plan? It is a specific land use planning tool which:
- Helps understand opportunities and address issues related to land use in defined geographic areas;
- Provides specific policies where more detailed direction is needed for matters beyond the general framework provided by the Bluewater Official Plan; and
- Provides an opportunity to promote consistency in new and/or developing areas and compatibility within existing areas where intensification may occur.
The Plan development has been informed by a Citizen Advisory Committee ensuring consideration of a broad range of perspectives.
Why now? With increased capacity at the wastewater treatment plant, Bayfield will have the infrastructure required to accommodate new growth. The purpose of the Secondary Plan is to ensure that change and growth, such as new residential and highway commercial developments, are designed to meet the community’s long term vision.
SUNSET ON SUMMER REVISITED THIS SATURDAY
Myrtle Earle
The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society will be celebrating the Labour Day Weekend with “Sunset On Summer Revisited”. According to organizers, things will be a little simpler this year with three bands taking the stage on Saturday, Sept. 3.
Set to perform are Myrtle Earle, Jesse Webber and Carry On. Music will be offered from 3- 7 p.m.
Myrtle Earle will get things started. This Alternative Country Trio have been playing in and around London, ON for more than 10 years covering favorites like: Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams, John Prine, the Beatles and much more.
Jesse Webber was raised on a steady diet of The Beatles and Pink Floyd. He started playing and singing professionally while still in his teens. Now averaging well over 200 shows a year, Webber wins over audiences of all ages with his soulful, soaring vocals, amazing guitar chops, and all-around musicianship. He has performed in the UK, New York City, at the Kitchener and Ottawa Blues Festival, and at hundreds of other venues in Ontario.
Carry On will be performing the classics from Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young. Spanning performances from the legends second appearance at Woodstock right up to the early 90s with songs that include “Deja Vu”, “Helpless”, “Carry On”, and of course, “Suite Judy: Blue Eyes”.
This “revisited” version of Sunset On Summer is about keeping things simple with people being able to just come, relax and soak in the summer weather and enjoy the music. Attendees are asked to bring their own chair.
As always, there will be a cash bar (beer and wine) plus there will be food for purchase on-site and children under the age of 12 will be treated to a free hot dog and pop!
Tickets are $25 and are available now at www.bayfieldtownhall.com.
FITNESS CLASS REGISTRATION COMING SOON
It has been a very busy year at the Bayfield Arena and Community Centre thus far! With COVID-19 restrictions lifted, it was full-steam ahead planning summer events with local groups.
Things started rolling in early May with the Bayfield Lions Club members holding their annual Home and Garden Show followed by their very popular Lions’ Breakfast. The Bayfield Arena Community Partners Association volunteers held their annual Beer, Wine and Food Festival that same month. The Bayfield Centre for the Arts hosted art classes in early summer while the Pioneer Park Association held their long anticipated Rummage Sale in early July. And just recently the Bayfield Agricultural Society membership took over both the building and the grounds for their 166th Bayfield Community Fair.
In addition, the Municipality of Bluewater ran a Children’s Program at the facility for seven weeks.
“We provided space for the program when it rained, stormed or for heat advisories! It was so adorable having them in the building!” said Operations Director for the Bayfield Facilities Initiative Team (BFIT), Sandy Scotchmer.
“Thank you to our service groups for the continuous support of the Community Centre and Arena,” said Scotchmer. “To be able to get together as a community has made the summer of 2022 very special for everyone in the village and for the Community Centre – thank you for your support.”
She added that Pickleball is also an Arena staple in the summer months. People are welcome to give this sport a try as the program will be running to the end of September.
Scotchmer is pleased to share that there are a number of activities that will soon be starting up again at the Bayfield Arena and Community Centre. BFIT will be holding fitness classes starting Monday, Sept. 12.
“We understand the need for people to get back together for fitness classes, it’s been a long time! Besides the physical health benefits of exercise, we recognize how isolating COVID restrictions have been on seniors’ mental health,” Scotchmer said.
Fitness classes will be held on Monday and Wednesday mornings at 9 a.m. for Level 3 classes and 10:30 a.m. for Level 2 classes. Participants are asked to please bring their own weights and mats. The cost will be $25 per month, payable at the start of each month. Since classes will begin mid-September, the cost will prorated.
Classes are a part of the Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging Program, led by certified Seniors Fitness Instructors.
Level 3 classes will include warm-up, aerobics, strength, balance and flexibility training; participants will stand for most of the class, but some strength and flexibility components will be taught on the floor, using a mat.
Level 2 classes will include all the components of the Level 3 class, but chairs will be offered for participants who don’t want to stand for long periods during aerobics, strength and flexibility. Floor work is not offered during Level 2 classes and the pace is more gentle than Level 3 classes.
BFIT is planning a registration day on Wednesday, Sept. 7, in the Community Centre at 9:30 a.m. A Par-Q (Physical Readiness form) is required to be completed by all participants prior to beginning classes, as well as a signature on a waiver.
“We will be limiting enrolment to ensure we don’t have overcrowded classes, especially heading into the Fall/Winter flu and COVID season. Registration will be on a first-come basis for all classes.,” said Scotchmer. “We are hoping to add more classes when additional certified instructors are brought into the program.”
Anyone with questions should feel free to contact Sandy Scotchmer, at 519 441-7743.
BOOK SALE REACHES HISTORIC LEVEL
The annual Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) Book Sale took place Aug. 18-20, and it was one for the history books in terms of the number of books offered and funds raised. Thankfully, the good weather allowed for tables to be set up outside because the library space was bursting at its seams!
It’s obvious from the response that this is a community of avid readers who share a great love for the Bayfield Public Library. FOBL extends a sincere thank you to everyone who stepped up with books and other items for the sale and for their monetary donations. All funds raised through the book sale help to support the Bayfield Library and community programs such as “Saturdays at the Library” speaker series, “Coffee & Conversation” groups, Gingerbread Decorating, and Children’s Canada Day events as well as other fun events throughout the year. The generous support of the community is so appreciated!
Book Sale Convenor Bev Quinn added, “I would especially like to recognize the many volunteers from the FOBL board and membership along with the library staff for their tireless work during the setup and book sale itself. We couldn’t have done it without you! To the few people whose book donations we had to turn away for lack of space, we offer our apologies. We heard your feedback and we’re working on ways to find additional space and extend sale times for next year.”
FOBL looks forward to doing it all over again in 2023 on the third weekend of August!
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Volunteer Kelly Walter helped to keep the books organized during the course of the sale held Aug. 18-20.
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Book Sale Convenor Bev Quinn (left) and Friends of Bayfield Library President Louise Sygrove were overwhelmed by the community's generosity in terms of both book donations and funds raised for the 2022 sale. (Photos submitted)
ACCLAIMED PHOTOGRAPHER TO SPEAK IN VILLAGE
Robert Burley (Image courtesy The Cultural Landscape Foundation website)
Robert Burley is a Canadian artist whose photographs of the visual landscape have been celebrated internationally. This acclaimed, award winning photographer of the highest calibre will be speaking in Bayfield on Friday, Sept. 22.
Starting at 7 p.m.,in the Bayfield Community Centre, Burley will discuss his lifetime’s work, and offer a slideshow of images of the Great Lakes, architecture and much more.
Burley will present recent landscape projects that explore society’s renegotiation with the natural world and how interconnected ecosystems are affected by the challenges of climate change, mass urbanization and environmental degradation.
As a Canadian artist whose photographs of the visual landscape have been celebrated internationally, his work concentrates on the relationship between nature and the city, architecture and the urban landscape, the Great Lakes and Toronto’s natural parklands.
Burley’s photographs have been extensively published and can be found in numerous museum collections including the National Gallery of Canada.
The recipient of numerous awards, Burley was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2018 and a Senior Mellon Fellow (Canadian Centre for Architecture) in 2010.
Don’t miss this great opportunity to see and hear from an accomplished Canadian Photographer !
This event is open to all and is part of Fall Foto Fest. Visit: Buy Tickets Here.
AUTUMN JOY CONCERT TO BENEFIT CHILDREN’S ROOM
The Glee Sisters are currently planning for a new season starting in September as well as a Benefit Concert in October.(Submitted photo)
For over 15 years the Glee Sisters women’s choir have enthusiastically entertained young and old alike with an eclectic and spirited assortment of music from various genres.
After a two-year hiatus, the Glee Sisters are ready and eager to perform once again. Their “Autumn Joy” Benefit Concert for Huron Hospice Bender House will be held on Sunday, Oct. 2nd at 2 p.m. at St. Andrews United Church in Bayfield. The concert will feature a joyful mix of folk, pop, swing, rock, novelty, classical, and spiritual songs. All proceeds will support the new Children’s Room at Bender House.
“Many choir members have a close connection to our local hospice and we are delighted to have this opportunity to show our support by doing what we love,” said Lisa Stewart, who is preparing the program.
There is no need to purchase tickets; people are invited to simply show up and enjoy the performance. Of course, they are welcome to show their appreciation with a donation to Huron Hospice. Tax receipts can be issued for all donations of $20 and over.
The Benefit Concert will be conducted by Stewart, accompanied by pianist Mary McGoldrick and Laurie Hazzard on guitar, bass and banjo ukulele.
Everyone is welcome to attend the concert, a delightful event not to be missed!
For further information, feel free to contact Helen Varekamp at hvarekamp@tcc.on.ca
In preparation for their upcoming Benefit Concert the Glee Sisters are inviting people to join in their 2022 opening rehearsal on Friday, Sept. 2ndat St. Andrew’s United Church.
Rehearsals are held at the church from 2-3:30 p.m. weekly until winter break; date to be announced.
This non-auditioned choir has been performing throughout the community and in surrounding areas since 2006. Anyone who plans to attend is asked to contact Stewart in advance so that music can be prepared. For registration or further questions, please email: lgstewart@cabletv.on.ca or phone 519 565-5443.
Please note that double vaccinations for COVID-19 are required while masking is optional.
Attendees are asked to please enter the church through the front west door facing Hwy 21.
SHORT-TERM RENTALS SURVEY
The Municipality of Bluewater would like public feedback to draft a by-law to regulate short-term rentals. They invite the public across the municipality to provide feedback on short-term rentals and the draft by-law. Please complete the short-term rental consultation survey by Aug. 31. It can be found by clicking here: Survey.
The goal of the survey is to include feedback from short-term rental operators, neighbors of short-term rentals, other residents in the municipality, and visitors who use short-term rentals. This survey has different questions geared towards people’s role as either a neighbor, short term rental operator, visitor, etc. Information collected may be included in a report to Council, but personal information will not be shared. The proposed by-law will include considerations for protection of renters and neighbors. Some items to be included in the by-law are parking management, maximum occupancy limits, requirements that the owner must be able to attend the property within thirty minutes, a demerit point system and more.
A variety of perspectives will help to develop a by-law that balances the needs of residents and short-term rental operators and feedback is much appreciated!
HARVEST MOON HIKE
All are welcome to join a moonlit hike through a Carolinian forest on the historic Sawmill Trail on Saturday, Sept. 10th hosted by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association.
Beginning at 7:30 p.m, the Harvest Moon will bring a unique perspective to the trail. The hike starts just before sunset and will continue through the dark woods. Wear good shoes and bring a flashlight or headlamp in case the clouds impede the moonlight.
Participants are asked to meet and park at the Sawmill Trailhead on Old River Road, on the north side of the Bayfield River. Please park only on the north side of the street. To view a map visit: Sawmill Trail.
This 2 km hike should take about 75 minutes with moonrise expected at 8:15 p.m. The trail is of moderate difficulty. It is well marked but there is one steep incline at the start and finish.
For more information please contact: Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or 519 525-3205.
BAYFIELD CALENDAR
The cover of the 2023 Bayfield Calendar. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Lions’ Club is proud to announce the launch of its 2023 Bayfield Calendar. This is the thirteenth edition of the Calendar (eleventh as a joint project of the Lions and the Photography Club of Bayfield).
These beautiful Calendars would make an ideal Christmas gift or souvenir and can be purchased for $20 from any Lion member. The Calendars are also available for purchase at Bayfield Convenience, Bayfield Foodland, or The Village Bookshop or by going directly to the Bayfield Lions’ website: Bayfield Lions’ Calendar and following the instructions there.
NIA CLASSES
Ruth Percy is offering people an opportunity to indulge in a one-hour gentle movement class and to find some joy through dance offering Nia classes in a beautiful Bayfield garden as long as the weather cooperates.
Nia is a wonderful practice that incorporates dance, martial arts and healing yoga moves to inspirational music and is suitable for all levels of fitness.
Classes are currently being held on Mondays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. in the garden of Bayfield Boutique Bed and Breakfast, 12 The Square. Classes are $10 for drop ins or a six week pass is available for $50.
The sessions are led by Percy, a local Black Belt practitioner of the Nia Technique. To learn more about Nia visit: www.nianow.com.
In addition, Percy is available for workshops and private classes for all ages. She is also an Ageless Grace educator and uses Melt Method therapies for continued healing practices.
For more information please contact rpercy@hotmail.ca.
FOOD BANK
Volunteers report that at this time of year Bayfield Area Food Bank shelves can use restocking of soup, rice, cereal, packets of oatmeal, tuna, canned vegetables and canned fruit.
BAFB is always grateful for the support of the community and would request that donors consider gluten free options (must say gluten free on packaging) when donating breakfast staples.
The needs of the BAFB aren’t always food related as they are also hoping the community would be open to providing them with feminine hygiene products.
Collection boxes for donations can be found at the Bayfield Public Library on Main Street as well as Trinity St. James Anglican Church (outside the entrance to the Parish Hall off the parking lot).
For anyone who would like to support BAFB with a monetary gift, there are a few options available. Cheques can be mailed to: Bayfield Area Food Bank, 10 Keith Cres., Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0. An e-transfer can be made through BAFB’s gmail account: bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com or a donation can be received on-line through the www.canadahelps.org website.
MAH JONGG
The Bayfield Library Community Room will soon be home to afternoons of Mah Jongg starting in September.
All are welcome to join and instruction will be provided for new players. Starting on Sept. 7, Mah Jongg will be played on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 12:45-3:30 p.m.
For more information please contact Pat Lewington via email at: plewington6@gmail.com.
TERRY FOX RUN
“Nobody is ever going to call me a quitter.” – Terry Fox
At 18 years-old Terry Fox was diagnosed with cancer and lost his leg. Two years later Terry started training to run across Canada. In 1980 he started his Marathon of Hope, raising funds and hoping for a cure for all cancers. Terry ran over 5,000 km – covering six provinces – to raise funds and share his message. Unfortunately, Terry’s health deteriorated, forcing him to abandon the Marathon. People all across Canada have since run every year in memory of Terry; over 850 million dollars have been raised for cancer research.
Members of the community are invited to run, walk or bike and raise funds to keep Terry’s dream alive. Bayfield has raised over $50,000 through Terry Fox Runs, and for this support organizers truly are very grateful. They are excited to announce that this year the Run will be held in person. Three guided group hikes will leave from the Clan Gregor Gazebo at 10 a.m.; participants can choose to walk the 1 km, 3 km or 5 km route.
Anyone who wants to run, bike or rollerblade, should feel free to choose their own route and time. Participants may register online as an individual, family or team and start collecting pledges. The process is extremely simple, visit: Terry Fox Run Bayfield to register at the Bayfield site.
Donations can be made on the same site; people can sponsor a registrant or make a general donation. They can also scan the QR Codes on all signs, which will bring them directly to the Bayfield site, enabling them to make a donation through their phone.
Those who prefer to donate to the Terry Fox Foundation by cash or cheque are invited to meet the organizers on Sunday, Sept. 18 between 9-10 a.m. at the pavilion in Clan Gregor Square. They will also be selling 2022 Terry Fox T-shirts at $25 each and have 2022 participation seals available. Also, for those interested, selfies can be taken during this time in front of a large Terry Fox poster!
The Bayfield Terry Fox Run is organized by volunteers of the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association. Anyone with questions is asked to please email info@bayfieldtrails.com.
For further information regarding the Terry Fox Foundation, please visit www.terryfox.org.
CHRISTMAS PARADE
The Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce is happy to announce that the Christmas Parade will once again be part of the Christmas in Bayfield Weekend activities. The parade will be held on Saturday, Nov. 19 with a start time of 11 a.m.
Of course a parade needs participants and those are being sought now. Anyone who would like to take part in the parade is asked to email Bayfield.Ontario.Chamber@gmail.com indicating their intention to participate, the length of their entry and the contact person’s name and email.
Participants will be sent notification of their position in the parade as well as further details two days prior to the event. Participants are asked to line up at 10 a.m. in anticipation of the start of the parade one hour later.
Adopt-a-BFF
Murdoc (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has so many wonderful cats and kittens looking for their forever families right now. They currently have sixty plus kittens waiting for vetting and homes to go to.
BFF has temporarily closed their doors to intakes.
“We receive calls every day but being able to take in more cats is directly linked to the number that can be adopted or fostered,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.
Murdoc is the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week.
A few weeks ago, BFF received a call about a kitten on a driveway with eyes closed.
“We were expecting a tiny, week old kitten to arrive but, to our surprise, the rescuers brought in a four week old kitten. The poor little thing’s eyes were totally crusted shut. After extensive and careful cleaning we were shocked once more when the lids opened and no eyes were visible. Was Murdoc blind?” shared Mary Pounder, a volunteer with BFF.
She went on to say that with care, fluids and food the eyes slowly began to show themselves though they were totally opaque.
“We still believed Murdoc to be blind,” Pounder said. “Once again Murdoc surprised us and the cloudiness of his eyes began to clear and from the attacks on our toes it was clear Murdoc was sighted!”
According to Pounder, such a rough start to life has not had any effect on this little guy. He is playful, affectionate and, quite simply, adorable. He still has a while before he will be ready for his forever home but there are some very lucky people out there when his time comes.
BFF is now accepting applications for adoption. If someone thinks Murdoc would be a great fit for their household they are invited to contact BFF.
Anyone who can help financially or by donating food, applying to become a foster home, volunteering at the Rescue or adopting a cat or kitten 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.
UNITED CHURCH
The Tuesday Morning Quilters are happy to be able to gather again for quilting/coffee time on Tuesday mornings at St. Andrew’s United Church. 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 summer events are now winding down.
“Yoga in the Park” will conclude on Monday, Sept. 5. The last session will start at 9 a.m.
The last pre-sunset concert will feature the Lakeview Mennonite Choir on Friday, Sept. 2.
And there will be one more chance to “Paint the Sunset” with Robin Ellis on Sunday, Sept. 4. Canvas and water colors are provided for budding artists of all ages to use.
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
The Bayfield Bridge Club is inviting new people to come out for a few friendly games of Bridge on Wednesday afternoons at the Bayfield Lions’ Community Building.
The cards are shuffled at 1 p.m. Players do not need a partner to participate in these “drop-in” sessions. The cost to join in the fun is $4.
All levels of players are welcome to take part in the games that are played year-round at the building located at 6 Municipal Road in the village.
YOUNG BUCK’S PLAYERS DONATE
The Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation (SCHF) is very grateful to receive a memorial donation in the amount of $20,258.03 from a hockey tournament held in memory of Matt Huether. The Young Buck’s hockey team plays in Seaforth and hosts an annual tournament in memory of their close friend, Matt, who passed away in 2018. The SCHF expresses their deepest sympathy to Matt’s family and friends and is very grateful to those that have made this donation possible. They are honored to be part of Matt’s legacy. This donation will enhance the local Emergency Department at the Seaforth Community Hospital. The funds donated will be used to purchase a Portable Cardiac Monitor. Memorial donations to the SCHF are a wonderful way to honor the memory of a loved one. Participating in the recent cheque presentation were from l-r: Vice President, People and Chief Quality Executive, Mary Cardinal; Sheila Morton, Vice chair SCHF; Alex Melady, Dean Johnston, Brad Vanbakel and Brent Melady, all Young Buck’s Players; Ron Lavoie, chair, SCHF; and Penny Cardno, director Patient Care. (Submitted photo)
REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR IN-PERSON TURTLE HATCHLING RELEASE
People of all ages had an opportunity to learn about turtles at the 2019 Turtle Hatchling Release and they will be able to do so again at the seventh annual event to be held tomorrow (Sept. 10 (Submitted photo)
Huron Stewardship Council (HSC), in partnership with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), is bringing back the turtle release event to return turtle hatchlings to the wild. The public is invited to the Seventh Annual Turtle Hatchling Release on Thursday, Sept. 1 from 1-5 p.m. at the Morrison Dam Conservation Area.
The event is free and takes place rain or shine. Organizers say donations to support Ontario turtle conservation are encouraged.
To register for the event and to select a time please visit the Eventbrite link here: Register to attend.
People attending will not be able to hold the turtles. This is to protect the animals and reduce their stress. Those attending will be able to see the turtles as they are released. Participants will also be able to visit a number of educational stations with fun learning activities.
Local conservation groups hosted the turtle release as an in-person event between 2016 and 2019. Thousands of people attended in its first four years. The popular education event reached a record attendance of 1,500 people in 2019. Organizers transformed the event in 2020 and 2021 to a virtual Local Turtle Week (#LocalTurtleWeek) with photos, videos, social media posts, and at-home activities. The event returns to an in-person event in 2022.
Marcus Maddalena is a Biologist and Stewardship Coordinator with the County of Huron. He said the Turtle Hatchling Release is a great way to educate about Ontario’s freshwater turtles and the ways we can protect these important species. People can protect turtles, he said, by helping them across the road the way they are headed, driving more slowly, protecting nests from predators, enhancing turtle habitat through local tree planting and wetland restoration programs, and supporting community turtle monitoring programs.
Turtles help to control aquatic vegetation and to clean creeks and wetlands by eating algae and dead and decaying fish and other organisms.
“We need to preserve and enhance our wetlands and plant native trees and shrubs and protect and grow the natural areas that sustain turtle species,” said Hope Brock, Healthy Watersheds technician with ABCA.
Ontario’s native freshwater turtles face many threats including habitat loss and road mortality (death by cars and other vehicles). Hundreds of turtles in Ontario are hit by cars each year in the spring, summer, and autumn. These could be gravid (pregnant) females looking for a place to lay eggs, or males and females looking for new ponds and mates. People can help turtles by creating nesting habitats on their properties, stopping to help turtles cross the road in the direction they are heading (when it is safe to do so), and working with their local municipalities and communities to erect turtle crossing signs and build safe passages. People can also arrange for the transport of injured turtles to the turtle hospital. People can also act to protect, create, and enhance the natural areas that provide the habitat for turtle hatchlings to eat, drink, reproduce, and grow and become the adult turtles of tomorrow.
To learn more visit the website: Huron Stewardship Council and the ABCA: Turtles page.
Anyone who has questions about the event is invited to contact Marcus Maddalena, County of Huron Biologist and Stewardship Coordinator, at mmaddalena@huroncounty.ca.
Morrison Dam Conservation Area is located at 71108 Morrison Line, east of Exeter, ON.
ROTARY GIFTS PLAYHOUSE WITH WINDMILL
Members of the Rotary Club of Grand Bend l-r: Bryan Beattie, Gerhard Eilers and Ed Fluter join Artistic Director and CEO of Drayton Entertainment, Alex Mustakas (seated), at the Huron County Playhouse. They are posed in front of the windmill that the Rotary recently donated. (Submitted photo)
As the venerable Huron Country Playhouse continues celebrating its momentous 50th Anniversary Season – and acclaimed reopening following two years of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic – the Rotary Club of Grand Bend has commemorated the occasion by gifting a windmill located at the entrance of the theatre grounds.
“For several years, we have been searching for the perfect roadside marker to welcome everyone to the theatre,” said Alex Mustakas, Artistic director and CEO of Drayton Entertainment. “The windmill speaks to our rural roots, yet it also symbolizes innovation and progress, which is what we strive to do as a charitable arts organization. It is a fitting welcoming point for current and future generations of theatregoers.”
The gesture came about after Rotarians invited Mustakas to give a presentation about the theatre and its role in the community, which, based on Government of Ontario tourism modeling, estimates the pre-pandemic annual economic impact in the area at $17.1 million.
Immediately following the meeting, and unbeknownst to Mustakas, Rotary Club members began a year-long, top-secret effort – headed up by Jim Southcott, Gerhard Eilers, Ed Fluter, and Bryan Beattie – to procure and install a windmill in time for the theatre’s 50thAnniversary Season.
“Huron Country Playhouse is one of Canada’s largest and most successful summer theatres. It is successful by every measure – quality of productions, audience satisfaction, and financial stability,” said Tom McCann, president of the Rotary Club of Grand Bend. “It has become an economic hub, source of social engagement, and attraction of national acclaim for Huron County, and we felt this vital asset in our community should be recognized and celebrated.”
The mission of The Rotary Foundation is to enable Rotary members to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. For many years, the organization has held its signature fundraising event – Autumn Indulgence – on the theatre grounds. Event proceeds are allocated to community projects, youth and international endeavors. Through this initiative, the Rotary Club of Grand Bend has donated over $1 million to its local and international projects.
THE GRAND PARADE RETURNS TO STRATFORD
Members of team “Masquerade Parade” participated in the 2021 ONE CARE’s Grand Parade virtual event by walking the boardwalk at the beach in Goderich. (Submitted photo)
One Care Home & Community Support Services is encouraging the community to get moving in support of their annual walkathon – “The Grand Parade”. This is an exciting year as One Care re-introduces their in-person event, in addition to their virtual event for those unable to attend in person.
This family-friendly team event is fun for individuals of all ages and accessibility levels. It is a great way to connect with family and friends, and support those in need of One Care’s services.
Participants have the option to do any activity they want, where they want, the distance they want, or they can join One Care for an in-person event taking place in Stratford. Teams have participated virtually by biking along the Maitland Trail, hosting campfire gatherings, or walking the boardwalk down at the beach in Goderich. Doing an activity is one way to participate, but there are many ways to support this event. People can also be a sponsor, or donate to a participant.
To register a team and start fundraising, become a sponsor, or to make a donation visit the One Care website at: www.onecaresupport.ca or The Grand Parade – Stratford.
“We are excited to have the option to gather this year, safely, and feel the enthusiasm from our community in person,” said Kathy Scanlon, Executive director, One Care. “These past few years have been an extraordinary and challenging time for everyone, and there are so many people living right in our community who rely on our essential services. Not only do our clients need our care, but their spouses and families need the support that our programs and services can provide. Anything you can give makes a significant difference to someone and their family.”
The Grand Parade is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 17 at Upper Queen’s Park in Stratford starting at 11 a.m.
The agency is excited to announce that local radio host, Jamie Cottle, will emcee the in-person event, with Home & Company Real Estate also on hand to welcome walkers and manage registration. Energy is sure to be high with DJ Harv on site. Plus, New Orleans Pizza, Soup Surreal, and the Perth Dairy Producers Committee will be generously donating lunch for all participants after the walk.
Foxton Fuels, Compass Minerals, and Tuckersmith Communications have generously come on board again this year as Lead Sponsors of The Grand Parade.
Funds raised through The Grand Parade will go directly towards a senior or person with health challenges in need of subsidized fees, as well as client-related equipment and facilities, such as the purchase of accessible vans. One Care has no regular source of funding for accessible vans and they are critical to ensuring people are able to get to the services they need. The agency is also working very hard to ensure cost is not a barrier to receiving the programs and services that clients rely on. Many require fees, and especially in these times people need help with the cost of services like Meals on Wheels and transportation. Many people in the community are elderly, alone and isolated, and trying to deal with the cost of living while also receiving the services they need. With the help from the community, One Care can support them.
“Last year, we really enjoyed the flexibility to do any activity we wanted at a time that was convenient for us,” said Janice Johnson, Grand Parade participant. “Being a part of an event that virtually brought together people from across Huron Perth, all doing a fun activity to support and strengthen our community was inspiring. Supporting someone who could be my neighbor or someone I see at the grocery store is very important to me.”
Supporting seniors in the community has never been easier or more fun. Register a team, start fundraising, and enjoy an activity with the team. Skip rope with the kids, play basketball in the driveway, or join One Care on Sept. 17 at Upper Queen’s Park in Stratford.
THIRD YEAR FOR HURON HOSPICE TELETHON
On Sept. 15, the lights will go up on the third annual Huron Hospice Telethon.
The Telethon is back by popular demand and will feature some of the best Huron County entertainment starting at 7 p.m. The lineup will include rock, pop, folk, jazz and classical; there will be something for everyone.
First held in 2020, the Telethon was the Huron Hospice solution to fundraising during a pandemic.
“We decided it was important to thank people for standing by us. We did this by celebrating the many ways our home, Huron County, is a great place to live and work. The telethon was originally a response to raising money in a time of COVID, this year, the challenge is an unpredictable economy,” Chair of the Huron Hospice Board of Directors, Jay McFarlan said.
McFarlan added, “We might have said it was ‘One Night Only’! However, the event was so successful that we just had to do it again, the artists, the donors, and the viewers reported that the event was a hit.”
All the entertainers live in Huron County or were born and raised in Huron. Well-known artists are returning, and new groups are joining the lineup. Whether new or returning, all the groups are bringing new material. Although it is a third event, it really will be an all-new magical revue.
The organizers are pleased to announce that Gil Garratt from the Blyth Festival and Member of Parliament, Ben Lobb, are returning as emcees. Joining Garratt and Lobb is well known Huron County personality, Alecia Anderson. Many people will remember Anderson from radio or her time at Cowbell Brewing. She is returning to the Huron Hospice family where she was one of the first emcees of “Handbags for Hospice”.
“We are pleased to have all three of them join us this year, when we know they all have hectic schedules,” said Willy Van Klooster, Huron Hospice Executive director. “The fact that Ben, Gil and Alecia are making time for Huron Hospice demonstrates how important the Hospice is for everyone in Huron County.”
Van Klooster went on to acknowledge and thank the internationally known creative team at Faux Pop Studios in Goderich.
“With the support of Faux Pop, we are moving outside the box again this year and I encourage everyone to tune in and see what we have planned. It will be an entertaining evening that shows the depth of artistic and technological talent in Huron County.
“There is no ticket price to get into the event. We want everyone to join in the celebration. However, it is a fundraiser, and we ask everyone in Huron County to consider donating to support Huron Hospice. When you donate, your name will light up the telethon event!”
Huron Hospice supports many families in Huron County. There is no cost for the services of Huron Hospice. Although there is no cost or co-pay, the community is asked to help fund the essential hospice palliative care services. The community contributes half the revenue Huron Hospice needs annually to provide the services for which it is known.
Huron Hospice invites everyone to tune in on Sept. 15 and support the Hospice. The Telethon starts at 7 p.m. and can be viewed on the Huron Hospice Facebook page: Telethon Viewing and on Hurontel and TCC cable.
This community has a lot to be proud of, from artists to leading businesses and a wonderful community of donors. Huron County people are worthy of huge thanks and the telethon is a way of offering that thank you.
PAINT ONTARIO PREMIERES EARLY SEPTEMBER
Paint Ontario opens at the Lambton Heritage Museum on Sept. 2nd and runs until Sept. 25. (Submitted photo)
Paint Ontario 2022 will premiere on Friday, Sept. 2nd at the Lambton Heritage Museum and run until Sept. 25. Long known as Ontario’s largest show and sale of representational art, the 26th edition of this popular annual event is eagerly anticipated by both the local community and art appreciators throughout the province.
The doors will open at 10 a.m. There will be a “soft” opening again this year due to COVID-19 uncertainty relating to public health directives and indoor capacity restrictions. Organizers very much hope to re-introduce an opening gala event in future years.
The jurying process is now complete and the show, the first event of any kind to be mounted in Lambton Heritage Museum’s newly renovated exhibit space, promises to delight, amaze and inspire its visitors.
Fascinating artist demonstrations and outdoor events will take place throughout the run of the show, intriguing, informing and entertaining Paint Ontario visitors. Highlights include, “May We Come Together”, a showcase for local area not-for-profit organizations, made possible through a Creative County grant, on Sept. 3-4, and “Perch’n’Paint”, a plein air competition on the weekend of Sept. 9-11.
Organized by the Grand Bend Art Centre, a registered not-for-profit community group, Paint Ontario provides a unique opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their work and an unmatched opportunity for buyers to view and acquire it. Monies raised in sales commissions go straight back into cultural development programs within the community.
Check for Paint Ontario opening times, including Thursday evenings; event and demonstration details at www.paintontario.com as well as on social media for the latest news updates. Whether a regular visitor or a new attendee, Paint Ontario’s 26th Show and Sale is an event not to be missed.
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
LEARN TO PLAY HOCKEY
The Municipality of Bluewater is offering a learn to play hockey program in 2022 and 2023. The program will be 10 weeks in length with two start dates.
Children ages four to 11 years are welcome. It is an opportunity for children to learn this game in a fun, safe and structured environment!
It will be held on Saturday mornings from 8-10 a.m. at the Hensall Arena.
Start times are 8 a.m. or 9 a.m. The first program will run from Oct. 8 to Dec. 17. The second program will run from Jan. 7 to March 25.
The sessions will be 50 minutes in length and will include skills and drills proven to maximize development while encouraging participation and enjoyment. There will also be scrimmage time where players can put their skills into action.
Equipment required is full head to toe hockey equipment. Free hockey equipment is available! Please visit the Bluewater website for information on equipment availability. The price per child for the 10 week program is $90.
For further details or to register online visit: Learn to Play Hockey.
For more information contact: Shannon O’Reilly, convenor, at 519 262-3206 or email bluewater.convenor@gmail.com or Maggie Off, manager of Facilities at 519 236-4351 Ext. 240 or email facilities@municipalityofbluewater.ca.
HOUSE LEAGUE HOCKEY
The Municipality of Bluewater is offering a youth house league hockey program this fall and winter season. The league is for children ages six to 15 years.
Teams will be divided into ages and divisions after registration has closed. The registration deadline is Sept. 23.
The league will offer fun, local competition for children of various skill levels. The league will run on Sunday mornings. Game times range from 8-11 a.m. at the Zurich Arena. The program start date is Oct. 2 and the final date is March 26, 2023. There are a total of 22 ice times per team. Coaches will be on the bench and a referee will officiate the games.
Equipment required is full head to toe hockey equipment. Jerseys will be provided. The price per child for the league is $200.
For further details or to register online visit: House League Registration.
For more information contact: Shannon O’Reilly, convenor, at 519 262-3206 or email bluewater.convenor@gmail.com or Maggie Off, manager of Facilities at 519 236-4351 Ext. 240 or email facilities@municipalityofbluewater.ca.
HOCKEY HEROES
The Goderich Firefighters will face off against a full line-up of former NHL hockey heroes in January of 2023! on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023. This fantastic community event promises lots of skill and lots of laughs, and is guaranteed to be a fun and memorable game for all ages!
This game, originally scheduled for Friday, Jan. 14, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. has now been officially rescheduled to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023 with doors opening at 1 p.m. at the Maitland Recreation Centre, 190 Suncoast Dr. E, Goderich.
All previous ticket holders from 2022 will be issued new tickets for this rescheduled date.
This event is in support of Huron Hospice. For more than 29 years, families have turned to Huron Hospice for support at the end-of-life. Huron Hospice provides community-based hospice palliative care and hospice-residence-based care for people with life-limiting illnesses. Huron Hospice also provides loss and grief support for adults and youth. Since opening in 2018, Huron Hospice has made moments matter for more than 100 families at Bender House, and for 280 families in the community. There are no costs for any of these services.
For more information visit www.prohockeyheroes.com. Tickets are only available through Pro Hockey Heroes directly at 1-888-777-9793. A portion of the promotion will consist of a telemarketing campaign in Goderich and the surrounding area via Connect Marketing.
OAKS AND ACORNS
Oaks and Acorns is an outdoor, play-based, inquiry-based program for children and their adult caregivers. Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) is offering the program at two conservation areas in 2022.
“We give children the tools with which they can explore nature,” said Nina Sampson, Conservation educator at ABCA. “We strive to inspire a life-long love of nature and the outdoors. The children taking part learn through observation, exploration, and play.”
The 2022 program at Morrison Dam Conservation Area (MDCA) east of Exeter takes place on Tuesdays from 10-11:30 a.m. There is a four-week session in September starting Sept. 6. There is a second session at MDCA in October commencing on Oct. 4.
The 2022 program at Rock Glen Conservation Area (RGCA) in Arkona takes place on Fridays from 9:30-11 a.m. The September four-week session at RGCA begins on Sept. 9. The RGCA October session of Oaks and Acorns starts on Oct. 7.
Oaks and Acorns is a chance to “connect with the natural environment and other families.” Organizers encourage participants to “wonder, learn, and discover.”
Oaks and Acorns is an outdoor program for adult caregivers and children ages 18 months to six years. Infants are welcome with older children. Infants can be carried/worn or pushed in a stroller. The program cost is $70 for four sessions. (There is a maximum of 15 families taking part and a minimum requirement of seven registrants to run the program).
To learn more about Oaks and Acorns visit: Educational Experiences for Families and Community Groups at abca.ca.
TREE PLANTING GRANTS
Enbridge Inc. has provided a grant, through its Fueling Futures program, to make it possible to plant 2,500 trees in Ausable Bayfield watershed communities.
Ian Jean is Forestry and Land Stewardship Specialist with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA). He said the Enbridge Fueling Futures grant makes it possible to support local landowners who are planting trees to protect and improve forest conditions.
“I would like to thank Enbridge for making it possible to plant trees in a part of Ontario where more trees are needed,” he said. “I would like to invite landowners in our watershed to call me or email me to find out about how grants for tree planting may help them with their tree planting projects.”
ABCA staff work with participating local landowners. They provide technical expertise and they also help to connect interested landowners with financial incentives that help them to plant trees. Thanks to the Enbridge grant, combined with other programs, landowners can apply for funding that may, in some cases, cover up to 100 per cent of the cash costs of a tree planting project.
Anyone who would like to purchase trees, can order trees through spring and fall tree order programs at: Tree Orders. Anyone who would like to find out about grants that may help to cover or reduce the costs of a tree planting project, is invited to email Ian Jean at ijean@abca.ca or phone 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610, Ext. 238.
Trees provide many benefits to humans and other living things, according to the Forestry Specialist. Trees can help to protect and improve air quality and water quality. They capture and store carbon and they help to keep temperatures down by providing shade. Trees are green infrastructure and help to manage stormwater. Trees and forests also provide habitat for many species. They are good for ecosystem health and human health, Jean said.
Enbridge Fueling Futures supports a number of initiatives that include contributions to a sustainable future by helping to improve, grow and nurture the environment. This funding supports projects such as environmental education; habitat conservation and remediation; and supporting energy transition, among other programs. To learn more visit the Enbridge Inc. website at: www.enbridge.com.
FESTIVAL FUNDING
MPP for Huron-Bruce, Lisa Thompson announced on Aug. 26, $185,000 in funding for the “Music in the Fields” (MITF) festival. The funding comes from the Reconnect Ontario program administered by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.
“Music in the Fields is just one of many local events and festivals in Huron-Bruce that received funding through the Ontario Reconnect program. When we support tourism and culture in Huron and Bruce Counties, we are supporting local jobs and economic development,” said Thompson.
MITF CO-chair, Rick McMurray said, “Lucknow’s MITF committee is grateful for the support from our provincial government. This funding will help us sustain our festival going forward and ensures we can continue to provide a great not-for-profit festival that generates funds which in turn, gets donated locally to a greater cause.
Thompson added, “This country music festival is unique because it is coordinated by the Lucknow Kinsmen, and all proceeds from the event get paid forward to benefit local community initiatives. Thank you to all of the volunteers involved in staging this successful event.”
The Reconnect Ontario program was designed in 2021 to help festival and event organizers adapt to new public health measures with virtual, drive-in/drive-thru and other safe offerings. Through this funding, the program supports festivals and events with a tourism economic impact to motivate visitors to rediscover Ontario, reconnect people with local experiences and generate increased tourism spending.
“For nearly two years, the pandemic has disproportionately impacted tourism and culture – two major industries that bring our communities to life, and Ontarians together,” said Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Neil Lumsden. “By supporting festivals and events through the Reconnect Ontario program, our government is delivering a much-needed boost to the sector as we continue to recover from the effects of COVID-19. We are supporting organizations across the province that are finding new, innovative ways to safely reconnect Ontarians – helping them to engage with their communities and creating local jobs.”
The MITF was held Aug. 25-27.
“I am so glad to see people are once again participating in and supporting our local festivals and fairs. The pride that is generated by the conclusion of a successful event is undeniable and underscores the fact that our local organizations in Huron-Bruce help to foster a sense of community that is second to none,” concluded Thompson.
In total, Huron-Bruce received $763,588 to support local festivals and events. The other funding recipients included: Huron Waves Music Festival, $40,224; Huron Country Playhouse, $101,275; Blyth Centre for the Arts, $89,540; Lighthouse Blues Festival, $38,795; Municipality of Huron East, $23,315; St. Joseph’s Kingsbridge Community, $12,638; Port Elgin Pumpkinfest, $27,269; Nuclear Innovation Institute, $92,500; Goderich Celtic Roots Festival, $28,268; Huron Arts & Heritage Network, $11,914; Cowbell Brewing Co., $95,645; and Municipality of South Huron, $17,205
Eligible events must: take place between Apr. 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023; occur in the province of Ontario while broadcast or virtual events must be produced in Ontario; be open to the public at large without membership in a club or group; and follow all municipal and provincial guidelines (including health and safety).
SUNSET COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
The Sunset Community Foundation’s annual community grant program is now available for applications from eligible organizations for projects and activities that improve the vitality of communities within Lambton Shores and Huron County. The annual grant program will award up to $100,000 in addition to the $20,000 it has already granted in 2022.
“As a community foundation, we partner with leaders and advocates in the community to identify needs, arising issues, and opportunities within our local area. Since our inception over 20 years ago, we have donated $2.1 million, and in 2021 we granted $107,000,” said Chair Deb Gill. “Our committed board of directors stewards an endowment that has grown to $3.2 million.”
Grants Chair Dr. Jim Jean and a group of community representatives will review all the applications in mid-October with applicants being notified by early November. “We are continually impressed by the thoughtfulness and creativity of applicants in putting forward grant requests,” said Dr. Jean. “We have funded projects and initiatives in the areas of environmental sustainability, food insecurity, accessibility, education, health, and technological support. We review all grants through the perspective of diversity, equity and inclusion.”
The Sunset Community Foundation welcomes grant applications up to Sept. 30. General information and a simplified application form is available at: Applying for a grant.
For more information, contact Chair of Sunset Community Foundation, Deb Gill at sunsetcommunityfoundation@gmail.com.
GREEN GODERICH
Fridays for Future International, which was founded after Greta Thunberg began a school strike for the climate in 2018, has declared a Global Climate Strike on Friday, Sept. 23.
A local environmental group, Green Goderich, will be hosting a lunch hour gathering in Goderich at the Courthouse Square in the South Plaza (near the fountain) from noon until 1 p.m.
The purpose is to create awareness that Huron County, and all of Canada, is being impacted by the climate crisis. Changing weather patterns and extreme weather events are forcing all people to adapt. Climate change affects everyone. There will be some music, short speeches, and visible support for the growing movement of school strikes worldwide.
Alex Robinson, the Chair of Green Goderich, said “We are a volunteer environmental group of concerned citizens. Our planet is literally burning. The young organizers of the Global Climate Strikes are inviting all adults, organizations, and businesses to support their desire for a safe and liveable planet. It has been almost three years since over 200 people in Goderich joined millions worldwide in the 2019 Global Climate Strike. Hopefully we can surpass that number this year!”
Striking has historically been one of the most impactful methods for achieving considerable gains in matters of equality and social justice. The time has come to channel that social power towards facing humanity’s most important collective challenge ever: Climate change.
Everybody, young, old, and in between are welcome to attend. Feel free to bring a picnic lunch and a climate sign. The event location is accessible to all.
More information on the event can be found by visiting the Green Goderich website here: Climate Strikes.
TEXTILE SHOW AND SALE
The Huron Tract Spinners and Weavers and the Goderich Quilters’ Guild are combining their talents once again to present their annual Textile Show and Sale during the first weekend of November in Goderich.
The public will be able to view and purchase unique traditional and modern weaving, basketry, beading, spinning, knitting and felting. Also for sale will be quilts and quilted items from wall hangings through to queen size bedding.
There is no admission fee to this event that will feature two of Huron County’s most creative groups at the same time in one location. The show will run on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Huron County Museum, 110 North Street in Goderich.
For more information please visit the Huron Tract Spinners and Weavers Facebook Page or www.goderichquiltersguild.com.
Huron County Museum
REMEMBER THIS
- The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 6,700 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.With the announcement last week (Issue 685) that a landau built by Tom Penhale had returned to the village, it is perfect timing to rediscover the connection between Penhale and Walt Disney as well as Walt Disney and Huron County through artifacts found in the Museum’s collection.
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FLIP TOP TABLE
This is a table that was made by James Munro in 1832. He chose for the base of this table, a birch stump that he selected from his 36-acre property near Holmesville (Lot 83, Maitland Concession). The stump’s original five roots serve as legs. On the underside of the table is carved the name “Emily”, one of his 12 children.The top of the table is made of cherry lumber. This cherry lumber was sawn from some of the first logs to go through the first saw and grist mill in the area. The mill, located along the Maitland River, on Lot 38, was built and owned by Arundel “Elias” Disney, the great grandfather of the famous Walt Disney.
James and Ann (Swanston) Munro were among the first settlers in the Holmesville district purchasing their property on Aug. 15, 1832. James was born in Inverness, moved to Rosebush, Michigan, then to Markham, ON and then to Holmesville, ON. He was a United Empire Loyalist. James died Jan. 8, 1892. Munro was the first Blacksmith in Holmesville (1834 – 1871). His wife, Anne Swanston (1819 – Jan. 6, 1896) was born Pennsylvania Dutch and was also a United Empire Loyalist. They were married Oct. 22, 1834 at Markham, ON.
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COMMEMORATIVE PLATE FRONT AND BACK
This is a souvenir plate produced in 1985 for the “Goderich Township Sesquicentennial 1835-1985”. It may still be found proudly displayed in many area homes. It depicts the Disney World Hitch Wagon created by Bayfield Carriage Works.
Written on the back is a brief history:
“Tom and Rick Penhale, of Goderich Township, built this wagon in seven weeks. Working sixteen hours a day. The wagon was painted four shades of blue with twenty-three karat gold trim. Artists from Disney World Studios striped and lettered it with silver, spun with cotton.
The Disney Wagon was first used for the World Champion Percheron Eight Horse Hitch at the 1983 Calgary Stampede. Walt Disney’s great grandfather, Elias, owned the only Mill in Goderich Township, assessed in 1840 Clerk’s Census.”
BAYFIELD COMMUNITY FAIR
First time volunteer offers perspective
PHOTOS AND STORY BY JANET VOGELSANG
The 166th Bayfield Community Fair has drawn to a close and is now a memory for all who attended and volunteered their time to help in the smooth running of the Fair.
Everyone will have their own favorite highlights of this year’s Fair, whether they are the traditional displays, the new one-time displays and demonstrations, the fireworks, or the musical entertainment features. Selecting highlights is very much an individual thing.
This story focuses on what was learned at the Fair from the perspective of a first-time volunteer. Here are the “Ten Things I learned at the Fair”:
- The transformation of the agricultural park to fairgrounds in less than 24 hours, complete with all the infrastructure needed to sustain the Fair, was nothing short of amazing!
- There is more to poultry than the familiar barnyard chicken varieties. Some of the exhibits in this year’s Poultry Show were quite exotic, including one variety that appeared to have feather dusters on its feet with a matching elaborate headdress!
- Alpaca wool is considered to be one of the warmest natural materials and one that can be used even by people who are allergic to wool. Alpaca fleece was spun into soft wool at the Fair using a two-pedal spinning wheel that folds almost flat to store in a knapsack-size carrying case.
- The procession of children and their families led by a piper from Clan Gregor Square to the fairgrounds on opening day was reminiscent of the marching of school children from the village’s one-roomed school house and other area schools. Many residents in the community will have vivid memories of this old parade tradition.
- The willingness of leaders in the community and on-air personalities to take part in the dunk tank is as commendable as the skilled arms of those who lobbed the balls to trigger the dunkings!
- The number of youth involved in learning animal husbandry skills through 4-H Clubs and competitions at fairs throughout Huron County and beyond bodes well for the future of farming in this area.
- A boa constrictor’s skin feels like velvet – not scaly or slimy at all. Chameleons change color to regulate their temperatures or to signal their intentions to other chameleons. How they do this is the fascinating part. The outer layer of the chameleon’s skin is transparent. Beneath this are several more layers of skin that contain specialized cells filled with sacs of different kinds of pigment. Basically, the chameleon’s nervous system “chooses” which combination of pigments to show. We learned all of this from the Reptiles Jurassic Adventure show presented by “Hands-on Exotics”, which featured a good variety of reptiles. In the words of one 11-year-old boy, the show was “Way cool!”
- The power of the sights, sounds, and scents of the Fair to evoke memories of community fairs gone by was a revelation on its own.
- The excitement of entering an exhibit for the first time is only exceeded by the joy of placing first, second, or third in the category. Kathy Wilson, of Bayfield, took up watercolor painting during the pandemic. As a first-time Fair exhibitor, Wilson was delighted to win first prize and Best in Section for her beautiful “Flowers” watercolor painting. Jillianne Reinseth, also of Bayfield, started bee-keeping and producing honey over the past year. She entered her honey in the newly added honey category this year and was thrilled to place third behind her two mentors who won first and second place. Reinseth plans to enter her honey in other upcoming Fairs.
- It takes a village to make the Fair happen each year. Volunteers were definitely needed. The response from the community and beyond brought volunteers, both young people and those more seasoned, who worked together to get the fairgrounds ready and help put on the Fair. Volunteering at the Fair is a great opportunity to meet and work with a wonderful group of people.
The Bayfield Community Fair is truly a unique event that brings rural and urban residents together to celebrate all that this community offers. There are so many elements in the Fair that attract all age groups and their talents.
Doug Yeo, Bayfield Agricultural Society secretary added, “Once everyone catches their breath, the planning for the next Fair will begin. If you enjoyed this year’s Fair, please consider being part of the team to make the next one even better. Now you can put the Fair in your summer memories.”
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A Hamburg Bantam might not have been the most exotic of poultry breeds on display at the 166th Community Fair but they were equally photogenic. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
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Bayfield Ward Councilor Bill Whetstone once again showed good sportsmanship when being dunked. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
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People of all ages delighted in attempting to dunk both community leaders and on air personalities in the dunk tank at the fair. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
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People who attended the 166th Bayfield Community Fair had the opportunity to learn about Boa Constrictors!
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The Reptiles Jurassic Adventure show presented by “Hands-on Exotics”, featured a good variety of reptiles.
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Chester Sudol was just one of the fabulous volunteers that helped make the 166th Bayfield Community Fair run smoothly. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
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The South-Central Huron Dairy 4-H Achievement Day was held at the fair on Aug. 20. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
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Jillianne Reinseth, of Bayfield, entered her honey in the newly added honey category this year and was thrilled to place third behind her two mentors who won first and second place.
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Kathy Wilson, of Bayfield, a first-time Fair exhibitor, was delighted to win first prize and Best in Section for her beautiful “Flowers” watercolor painting. (Photo by Peter Karl)
For a closer look at these images click on any one to open a pop up gallery.
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
Our granddaughter, Noelle, is working with a tutor over the summer to improve her pronunciation, writing and reading skills. On Tuesday evenings she works with her instructor over ZOOM for an hour. For the last two Tuesdays I’ve listened in from a discreet distance so as not to distract and to learn what I might help her with afterwards.
Last week her teacher learned that Noelle has developed a passion for the Harry Potter books. This week the lesson she created revolved around Harry Potter and this greatly improved Noelle’s enthusiasm for the work. My congratulations to her for listening to Noelle and adapting to her interests to make learning fun!
As this week is the last of the summer holidays many teachers will be returning to their classrooms preparing for another year of encouraging and helping their students to grow in a variety of subjects. May they too find the spark that ignites a willingness to learn in their students – it isn’t an easy task but when accomplished real magic can happen! – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.