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The Bayfield BreezeIssue 696 Week 46 Vol 14

November 9, 2022

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Issue 696 Week 46 Vol 14
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BAYFIELD SECONDARY PLAN MOVES TO PUBLIC CONSULTATION STAGE

The process of formulating a Secondary Plan for Bayfield continues and is now moving to the public consultation stage with opportunities for residents to comment upcoming later this month.

An Open House will be held on Friday, Nov. 18 at the Bayfield Public Library and interested individuals are welcome to drop by anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.  There will be interactive panels provided for feedback and staff available to answer questions.

A Public Meeting will be held on Saturday, Nov. 26 starting at 9:30 a.m. in the Bayfield Community Centre. A formal presentation by staff will be conducted followed by a question period and time to provide feedback.

“Please join us to review and discuss the first draft of the Bayfield Secondary Plan this month! If you are not able to attend in person, online feedback forms will be available on the Huron County Connects page or you can email directly to Planning staff,” said Manager of Planning for the County of Huron and Staff Lead for Planned Bayfield, Denise Van Amersfoort.

Owners of large, undeveloped parcels of land will be receiving an invitation for one-on-one meetings through the mail. Should they not receive one and wish to understand how the Secondary Plan will influence the future development of their property, they should please call or email Van Amersfoort at dvanamersfoort@huroncounty.ca or call 1-888-524-8394 Ext. 3 to set up a time. Meetings can be in person on-site or by phone.

Public feedback will be reviewed by the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) and incorporated into the Secondary Plan before Bluewater Council receives the final document in early 2023.

The CAC has completed their review of the first draft of the Secondary Plan and it is available for public review and feedback. A more condensed version of the draft policies has been prepared in response to Committee feedback. Other recent changes include:

  • Removal of Neighborhood Commercial policies;
  • Maintain ‘Highway Commercial’ designation name and scale back extent of designation expansion along Hwy 21 and Mill Road;
  • Proceed with minimum density requirement of 15 units per hectare for future development lands;
  • Proceed with series of zoning-related changes that support the vision outlined in the Secondary Plan; and
  • Compilation of additional recommendations that support the vision of Bayfield as outlined in the Secondary Plan.

The community’s vision of Bayfield as articulated in the initial rounds of public input is of a walkable, green and vibrant community that maintains an authentic village character. To achieve this vision, members of the CAC felt strongly that while some of the ideas raised during the development of the Secondary Plan are outside of scope of Official Plan policies and/or Zoning recommendations, it is important to document and forward these ideas to Bluewater Council as part of the Secondary Plan process.

Eleven recommendations are currently included.

The Bayfield Breeze will highlight these over the next three issues starting with Part I: Heritage Conservation District Plan for Main Street North and Clan Gregor Square, Street naming policy, Noise By-law exemption for hospitality businesses on Main Street, and an amendment to Signage By-law.

Heritage Conservation District Plan for Main Street North and Clan Gregor Square – The Heritage Conservation District Plan and accompanying Guidelines are considered vital to ensuring the heritage features and character of the District are conserved and enhanced through future development proposals. The Plan must be updated to reflect changes since its inception (1982) and changes to the Ontario Heritage Act. The updating of the Plan should include consideration of expanding the District to those properties that opted out in the original Plan as well as abutting residential streets (eg. Chiniquy Street and Bayfield Terrace).

Recommendation: That the Municipality proceed to update the Heritage Conservation District Plan and Guidelines at the earliest opportunity. The Municipal Heritage Committee supports this recommendation.

Street Naming Policy – The naming of new streets is an opportunity to celebrate the community’s heritage, culture and history. Carriage Lane is an example of the authentic storytelling that is promoted through street naming. The Committee recommends that the names of all new streets relate to Bayfield or the former Stanley Township’s community, culture, and heritage or relate to pre-settlement history (in partnership with local Indigenous Nations).

Recommendation: That Council establishes a formal process for street naming within the Municipality through the adoption of a Street Naming Policy By-law.

Noise By-law Exemption for Hospitality Businesses on Main Street – The current Noise By-law has created difficulty for hospitality businesses to operate into the evening hours.  This By-law would be improved by increased flexibility within defined parameters to allow both operators and neighboring property owners a clear understanding of what is permitted.

Recommendation: That Council adopt a seasonal exemption to the Noise By-law for hospitality businesses located along Main Street North in Bayfield to allow for evening hours of operation to include music within set parameters.

Amendment to Signage By-law – It is felt strongly that large scale, tower signage is not appropriate in any area of Bayfield, including arterial areas.

Recommendation: That the Municipality of Bluewater Signage By-law be amended to prohibit large, pylon signs within the Bayfield Settlement Area.

The Secondary Plan is available for review at www.connectedcountyofhuron.ca.

Anyone with questions, comments or concerns is asked to contact Van Amersfoort directly. Her contact information is listed above.

Map of Bayfield - Draft of the Land Use Schedule with recommended changes (Submitted photo)

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Draft of the Land Use Schedule with recommended changes (Submitted photo) [click to enlarge]


SANTA’S BRINGING HIS WORKSHOP TO TOWN

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A chance for four to12 year-olds to pick a gift for a special adult in their lives without any adults in the family knowing what it is will be happening at the Bayfield Community Centre on Nov. 19 thanks to Seeds Rooted in Youth. (Submitted photo)


Seeds Rooted in Youth (Seeds) is hosting a new event for children and youth on Nov. 19 that is also a gift for the adults in their lives! Owner and Lead Facilitator Janneke Vorsteveld at Seeds is bringing Santa’s Workshop to the Bayfield Community Centre.

For $30, grown-ups can give their child the gift of picking out a present for a special adult in their life all on their own! The event will run from noon until 4:30 p.m. and participants are asked to register online by picking a time slot: Santa’s Workshop Registration.

So how does this event work? Voresteveld explained, “Kids will get dropped off for a 45 minute time frame, where they will be able to pick, wrap and decorate a gift for an adult in their lives. They can also have hot chocolate, a snack and get their face painted by Snippitty the Clown.All without their parents/caregivers! Yup, you read that right, you drop them off and we do the rest.”

This is a chance for four to12 year-olds to pick a gift for a special adult in their lives without any adults in the family knowing what it is.

Donation Collection for gifts is happening now at the Bayfield Garage, 9 Main Street South.

“Donations do not need to be new items, used are great as well. Anything that could be a great gift for an adult and a child can carry home,” said Vorsteveld. She noted that gift ideas might include such items as scarves, socks, ties, home decor, and costume jewelry.

Fifteen spots will be donated to local youth in need through the Children’s Aid Society. Proceeds from this event will go to a sponsorship program to help get more kids learning outdoors. And the Bayfield Garage has graciously donated a free skate in the arena from 1-5 p.m. so families are invited to bring their skates to enjoy some ice time before or after shopping.

Seeds is in need of some volunteers to ensure that the afternoon runs smoothly – teenagers in need of service hours or adults are most welcome. Tasks include setting up and taking down tables as well as assisting  groups of five kids through picking a gift, wrapping it and decorating it. Please contact Vorsteveld at seedsrooted@gmail.com for more information.

CHILDREN’S CONCERT RETURNING FOR CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD

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Audience participation is a big part of The Glee Sisters’ concerts – these youngsters were enlisted to help with a song about the jolly old elf during the last concert held in November of 2019. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)

The Glee Sisters will be presenting “Olaf’s Night Before Christmas” through song, story and puppets at the Bayfield Town Hall during the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.

There will be two performances on Saturday, Nov. 19, the first at 1:30 p.m. followed by a second at 3 p.m.  The Village Bookshop will have the book on sale at both performances.

Young children will no doubt love to sing seasonal favorites and play interactive musical games with a gift of a safety-approved rhythm instrument donated by Greg Stewart.  The Village Bookshop will have the book on sale at both performances. The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society will provide hot chocolate and cookies following the shows.

The choir is directed by Lisa Stewart, accompanied by Mary McGoldrick. Helen Latimer will be puppeteer and Jen Smith will be acting as technical consultant.

Admission is free but donations to the Bayfield Area Food Bank will be gratefully received.

GINGERBREAD COOKIE DISTRIBUTION MOVES TO CLAN GREGOR SQUARE

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Youngsters will be able to pick up their “Take & Make” Gingerbread Cookie Kits from the FOBL again this year but this time the group will be set up in Clan Gregor Square to distribute. (Submitted photo)

It wouldn’t be Christmas in Bayfield without a Gingerbread Cookie Decorating event for the kids! And the Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) elves are busy getting it all ready. Like last year, the event will be a “Take & Make” format.

The gingerbread cookie decorating kits will be ready for pickup in Clan Gregor Square on Saturday, Nov. 19 from noon to 1:30 p.m., right after the parade. There is no need to register for this event. Please note the location change as the gingerbread event has been at the library in previous years.

Each cookie kit will contain a gingerbread cookie with all the decorations needed to create a delicious, one-of-a-kind masterpiece at home. A gluten-free cookie option will be available. The kit will also include a “gingerbread” themed bookmark as well as some other fun items and a draw ticket to be filled out at the event for a chance to win one of two $25 gift certificates from The Village Bookshop. Complete the draw ticket and leave it in the jar at the pickup table. The draw will take place on Nov. 19.

FOBL is very grateful to The Village Bookshop and Bayfield Foodland for their generous donations to support this year’s Gingerbread Cookie Decorating event.

As in past years, parents (and grandparents too!) are invited to send photos of the completed cookie masterpieces to contact@fobl.ca. The photos will be posted on the FOBL Facebook page over the following week. For privacy reasons, no photos of children will be posted.

EVENING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT RESCUE

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Cardi B (Submitted photo)


Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has so many wonderful cats and kittens looking for their forever families right now that they have temporarily closed their doors to intakes.

Cardi B is the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week.

This teenie weenie feline looks more like a stuffed toy than a kitten. She was found trying to survive the elements on her own with no other kittens or a Momma to be found. She was surrendered to the Rescue and volunteers figure she is about six weeks old now. She will soon be vetted and when old enough will be spayed .

“Her story unfortunately is not unique but she is a striking and playful little ball of fluff,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF. “We receive calls daily from people who have found kittens or stray cats or are wanting to surrender their cats and we can’t possibly respond to all of them and we absolutely cannot bring in any more at this time. It breaks our hearts to say no, but again, housing, vetting and finances all dictate how much we can do and how many cats we can take on.”

BFF is currently in desperate need of some volunteers who might be willing to do some evening shifts at the Rescue.

Anyone who would like to meet Cardi B or might consider volunteering is invited to contact BFF via email at 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.

CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD

Christmas in Bayfield is just around the corner now and the excitement is building!

“Our entertainment line up is great! Not only will we have talented people sharing their skills with us, but Santa will make an appearance on Saturday and welcome children with their wish lists from 1:30-3 p.m. in the Library Square,” said Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce Secretary-Treasurer, Terri Louch.

A complete list of where and when people can see all the wonderful entertainers is available on the Chamber’s website: Schedule of Events 2022.

Louch would like to remind everyone that this is the last week to reserve space for the outdoor market. The Application Form will be available on the Village of Bayfield website until Nov. 11 and limited spaces remain!

“As we have said many times – we could not host Christmas in Bayfield without support from our businesses and the community,” said Louch. “As a way to say thanks so much to all those who have generously donated, we are running an online contest giving away five, $100 gift certificates which can be spent at any of those supporting businesses!”

The contest will begin Nov. 10th with the draw and notification before the big weekend. People should keep an eye on the committee’s social media pages for contest details and enter and share with friends so that they can enter too!  To see the most current list of donors visit Christmas in Bayfield Donors.

Just as a reminder, there will be folks from the Bayfield Area Food Bank collecting dry goods during the parade to help those experiencing food insecurity during these uncertain times.

“If you can spare it, please bring a donation,” concluded Louch.

SCARVES FOR FOOD BANK

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Jessica Tataren demonstrates one of the many way these 9’ x 24” upcycled scarves can be worn.

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Nicole Gunter models one of 50 handmade scarves created by a local upcycled designer, Mary Cross. Proceeds from the sale of the scarves will benefit Bayfield Area Food Bank (Submitted photos)


In the spirit of positive thinking, Mary Cross, an upcycled designer and resident of Bayfield, has created a limited edition of 50 exquisite scarves in support of the Bayfield Area Food Bank.

“This new collaboration is an opportunity for us all to pay it forward,” said Cross. “What a better cause than to shop local, support local and help feed local families. With only a limited amount of scarves produced, they are sure to sell fast and make the ideal holiday gift that keeps on giving.”

These 9’ x 24” upcycled scarves can be worn in so many ways and each piece is one-of-a-kind. These designer scarves are made in Bayfield and will be available exclusively at the new Market 29, located at 29 Main Street North starting Nov. 18 or by emailing info@3rclothingcompany.com.  Cross would love it if people send her a photo of them wearing their one-of-a-kind scarf to this same email address.

Market 29 will be open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

YOGA SESSIONS

Metamorphic Rock Shoppe & Gallery will be the location for four Wednesday sessions of yoga starting today (Nov. 9) until Nov. 30.

Shannon Malolepszy will lead a gentle and mindful vinyasa flow yoga practice where participants will master their breath, quiet their minds and journey on their mats towards deep relaxation.

The one hour sessions will begin at 9 a.m. Participants can attend the full series for $60 or drop-in to any class for $15 (please check space availability in advance).

For more information please call or text Shannon at 519 404-5199 or email shannon@saintongealliance.com.

Metamorphic Rock Shoppe & Gallery is located at 22 Bayfield Main Street North (beside Rumba).

WREATH SALE

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The wreaths will be for sale in front of St. Andrew’s United Church, located at 6 The Square, on the Friday and Saturday of Christmas in Bayfield weekend. (Submitted photo)

The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) is very happy to announce it will be holding a Wreath Sale during the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.

The wreaths will be available in front of St. Andrew’s United Church, located at 6 The Square, directly across from Clan Gregor Square. Sale times are Friday, Nov. 18 from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 19 from 10  a.m. to 3 p.m., while quantities last. Prices range from $30 to $50, and payment is by cash or cheque made out to the Bayfield Agricultural Society.

Anyone wishing to place an order ahead of time to ensure availability may do so by emailing info@bayfieldfair.ca or by calling 519 482-9296. Payment will be due at pickup.

These beautiful wreaths are made of natural grape vine, cedar, spruce, white pine, juniper, and yew. Each wreath is one of a kind and will add a special warmth to any holiday décor.

The wreaths have been handcrafted by local volunteers using locally sourced greens as a fundraiser for the BAS – an organization with a 166-year history in the Bayfield community. It doesn’t get more “local” than that!

BRVTA

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA)  would like to remind everyone that the Woodland Trail will be closed for hunting for two separate weeks from now until Nov.13 and again Dec. 5-11.  Please follow the posted signs.

“As always, we thank the private landowners who support use of the Woodland Trail on their properties,” said Ralph Blasting, representing the BRVTA.

The final guided hike of 2022 will be on Mavis’ Trail  and the Taylor Trail on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. National Take a Hike Day celebrates the nearly 300,000 km of trails in Canada, 80,000 of which are in Ontario.

This little hike of 3.5 km will start at the Varna Complex parking lot and take participants  through evergreen and deciduous forests, over small streams, and down to the Bayfield River.  A map can be found at Mavis-Taylor Trail.

For questions or more information contact Ralph Blasting via email at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or call 519 525-3205.

UNITED CHURCH

The congregation of St. Andrew’s United Church is happy to announce the return of their “Christmas Holly Berry Market”  on Saturday, Nov. 19 in conjunction with the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.

The market will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature the sale of  quilts and other crafted treasures. Another highlight will be a Bake Sale table as well as an opportunity to to sit and relax with a coffee and a dessert.

Anyone wishing to set up a table to sell their crafts is encouraged to please contact Kathleen Siertsema at ksierts@tcc.on.ca.

In addition, the Bayfield Agricultural Society members are planning to set up outside the church, located at 6 The Square, to sell their handcrafted wreaths and greenery.

AG SOCIETY AGM

The Annual General Meeting of the Bayfield Agricultural Society will be held in the basement of St. Andrew’s United Church on Friday, Nov. 25.

This meeting, that will start at 8 p.m., is for the purpose of receiving reports and statements required to be placed before the Annual Meeting, electing Directors and Committee Chairs, appointing someone to review the financial records and prepare a report for the Society, and for the transaction of such other matters as may properly be brought before the meeting.

In addition to receiving reports and financial statements for the period that ended Oct. 31, 2022, there will be greetings from the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) Provincial Director, Jentje Steenbeek, and OAAS awards will be presented.

All are welcome to attend!

COFFEE & CHAT

The Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) extend a warm welcome to all to attend their  “Coffee & Chat” program in the Bayfield Public Library Meeting Room. The “Coffee & Chat” group meets every Tuesday until the end of March.

Participants can enjoy a hot cup of coffee while engaging in conversation with other community members. The conversation is neutral and inclusive with an endless list of interesting topics for discussion.

The session runs from 2-3:30 p.m..

This is a great way for newcomers to meet new people, learn about the village, and share ideas. Seasoned villagers are also very welcome. There is no need to register for this program. Just show up and be prepared for some lively discussion!

GIRL GUIDE COOKIES

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After a two year absence the Chocolatey Mint Girl Guide cookie is back and available now from members of Bayfield Guiding!

They are selling for $5 a box and there is a limited supply so they are sure to sell quickly.

Anyone not familiar with a youth member who would like to purchase a box or two is encouraged to call Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.

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 ian@ianmatthew.ca 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.

PUBLIC SHOULD TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT THE MORE HOMES BUILT FASTER ACT

Premier Doug Ford and his government announced Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022, on Oct. 25. The bill includes changes to the Conservation Authorities Act with respect to development in Ontario.

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer Brian Horner said ABCA wants to continue to work cooperatively with the Province on the proposals. There is a need to keep people and their properties safe from natural hazards like flooding and erosion while also streamlining permitting approvals.

“We are aware of the lack of attainable housing in Ontario and, locally, we want to be part of the solution,” Horner said. “We are taking a close look at the proposed changes to better understand how they impact the work we do. We expected some of the changes as we have been working closely with the Province but there are some components that are new and we will need to look closer at the details.”

The proposed changes would allow the government to freeze or eliminate user-pay fees for developers. Putting a freeze on costs paid by developers is downloading to municipalities and taxpayers, according to Horner. It is also inconsistent with the direction previously given to the conservation authorities about cost recovery and a user-pay principle, he said. This change, if approved, could reduce service and create a greater burden for local taxpayers.

Municipalities need flexibility to enter into agreements with conservation authorities for plan review, according to Horner. Downloading of this service to municipalities that may not have the expertise, could be less efficient.

“Downloading of planning services to municipalities may be less efficient and increase costs to taxpayers,” he said. Municipalities and conservation authorities have worked together for decades and need to be able to continue to do so to provide cost-effective, efficient services for ratepayers.

The Province is looking at conservation authority lands as potential areas for housing development. It is important any proposed changes do not limit the ability to acquire and maintain these lands, according to the ABCA General Manager. Conservation authority lands have been acquired and maintained for public benefit and well-being. These lands protect against flooding and erosion, protect drinking water sources, and generally should be preserved, he said.

Ontario has worked over the past two years with a working group made up of stakeholders including the Province, municipalities, agriculture, industry and conservation authorities. The ABCA hopes this working group model continues.

“We hope the Province will continue to consult with us in the coming days and weeks to make sure we can continue to fulfill our mandate to protect watershed resources and to protect life and property from natural hazards,” he said. “We look forward to working with the Province, and sharing our questions and concerns, in order to ensure we can continue to build natural infrastructure, watershed health, and resilient watersheds to protect the people in our communities.”

To learn more, or to provide input on the proposed changes, visit the Environmental Registry of Ontario for these Notices:

  • Proposed updates to the regulation of development for the protection of people and property from natural hazards in Ontario: ERO #019-2927 The first page includes a Consultation Guide on how to provide public input.
  • Legislative and regulatory proposals affecting conservation authorities to support the Housing Supply Action Plan 3.0: ERO #019-6141.
  • Visit Ontario’s Regulatory Registry for its document on Focusing conservation authority development permits on the protection of people and property: Focus.
  • To read Bill 23, visit the Ontario Legislative Assembly at this web page: Bill 23, More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022.

HEALTHCARE SHOULD NOT BE DETERMINED BY POSTAL CODE

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Participants in a virtual lecture organized by Gateway Centre for Excellence in Rural Health on Nov. 1 were: top row l-r: Jimmy Trieu, Jay McFarlan and Kristen Watt. Bottom row: Kevin Talbot and Dr. Ken Milne. (Submitted photo)

“Access to healthcare should not be determined by your postal code. Rural people expect and deserve appropriate and timely care,” said Dr.  Ken Milne, the featured keynote speaker at the most recent Virtual Lecture Series hosted by Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway).

Held on Tuesday, Nov. 1, it was the 18th instalment of the series and “Postal Code Medicine” was the topic.

Dr. Milne is Staff Physician at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, as well as Chair of Rural Medicine at Gateway, The panelists were: Jimmy Trieu, president and CEO of Alexandra Marine and General Hospital and South Huron Hospital Association: Kristen Watt, pharmacist at Kristen’s Pharmacy in Southampton; and Kevin Talbot, realtor at Talbot KJ Realty Incorporated.

The lecture was planned, organized and hosted by Gateway’s Chair of Rural Nutrition and Exercise, Jay McFarlan, MSc.

McFarlan introduced Dr. Milne who spoke to the topic of Postal Code Medicine while directly relating this topic to the five parts of the Canadian Health Act, stroke care, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, preventatives such as clean water and more. Afterwards, the guests had the opportunity to participate in the discussion by asking questions, while the keynote speaker and panelists provided potential solutions to the discussion

Gateway recognizes their generous donors for their support of this lecture series. Gateway is a not-for-profit corporation with charitable status. Its mission is to improve the health and quality of life of rural residents through research, education and communication.

The next Gateway Rural Health Lecture will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 6. Those who wish to take part are asked to register here: Rural Health Lecture Series. Additionally, anyone who would like to support this unique community driven health research organization is invited to visit the Gateway website to make a donation: www.gateway rural health.ca.

WATER ADVISORY LIFTED FOR AUSABLE BAYFIELD WATERSHED

The Water Response Team (WRT) has removed the Level 1 Low Water Advisory for the entire Ausable Bayfield watershed. Watershed conditions have seen a slow but steady improvement in response to wet weather through the first part of the autumn season. Several months of normal rainfall totals have resulted in more frequent runoff, and steady baseflow through October, something that had not been seen since early June. Dry weather through the summer produced almost no runoff and a significant reduction in baseflow, which saw many of the smaller watercourses around the watershed dry up.

Davin Heinbuck is Water Resources Coordinator at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA). He said long-range forecasts show that a normal weather pattern is likely to persist through the last half of the fall season.

“With improved conditions, seasonal weather, and a lower demand for water, we are optimistic that watershed conditions will continue their recovery,” he said.

According to Heinbuck, even though streamflow is slightly below normal, streamflow measurements are trending in the right direction.

“This is supported by what we are seeing in ground conditions and in our shallow aquifers,” he said.

The Chair of the WRT, Doug Cook, thanked both industries and individuals who voluntarily reduced their water usage in response to the dry weather observed through the summer.

“During dry periods, conservation of water is an important measure to prevent further declines in water supplies and actions taken earlier this summer will have helped to prevent any further Low Water Advisories,” Cook said.

The WRT was formed in 2001 in response to the low water and drought conditions that year and the team has been active ever since. The WRT includes representatives of major water users (such as, aggregate industries, agriculture and vegetable growers, and golf and recreation) and includes local municipal representatives and staff of provincial ministries (such as, Natural Resources and Forestry; Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs; and Environment, Conservation and Parks). ABCA staff will continue to monitor precipitation and streamflow data and keep the public informed of any changes in watershed conditions through the winter months.

Visit the Surface Water Monitoring Centre  for further resources on the Ontario low water response program or the website at abca.ca for the dynamic low-water advisory tool which alerts people to low-water advisories in effect in the watershed.

CONSIDER AUSABLE BAYFIELD CONSERVATION ON GIVING TUESDAY

Giving Tuesday is celebrating ten years of work to engage people in giving to charity on a special day. This day of giving takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 29.

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) is asking people for their support, for community conservation projects, on Giving Tuesday. They may donate to support all the programs of the Conservation Foundation or they may specify which program they want to support.

The Chair ABCF is Dave Frayne. He encourages people to donate to community betterment.

“It is your generosity that makes it possible to enhance trails and natural areas in our community and to support conservation education and other programs for young people and people of all ages,” he said.

To donate to ABCF for Giving Tuesday, visit the Conservation Foundation’s Giving Tuesday web page.

There is a private message box for donations so that individuals can type into the text field there to let the Foundation know which program they want to support. Examples of community enhancement projects include habitat for turtles, conservation education, trails, Student Environmental Award, Junior Conservationist job opportunity program, tree planting through Carbon Footprints to Forests, wetlands, habitat for pollinators; conservation areas, or another conservation program of their choice.

To learn more about community projects of the Conservation Foundation, or how to support their work with a donation, visit this web page: ABC Foundation. Also, feel free to contact the Conservation Foundation by email at info@abca.ca or by phone at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday in late November are popular days for shopping and to buy things. As those retail mega-days wind down, the Conservation Foundation asks people to consider a different kind of day – Giving Tuesday. Giving Tuesday is not a day to buy things but a day to give a gift of a different kind, a gift to nature and to the community.

Giving Tuesday is a global movement, for giving and volunteering, that takes place each year after Black Friday. Black Friday is a day devoted to supporting the economy. Giving Tuesday (#GivingTuesdayCa) is a day devoted to supporting the community. To learn more about Giving Tuesday, visit the Giving Tuesday Canada website.

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

FILM FEST

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The Livery Film Fest will present its third film of the season on Thursday, Nov. 10. This Spanish film, entitled, “Official Competition”, features Penelope Cruz and Antonio Banderas as they attempt to make a film that will win the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.  While the producer can pay to bring the best director and best actors together, he can’t predict the cost of dealing with their egos.

Critics have called this satire witty and intelligent. The film radiates with the warmth, talent and sheer chemistry of Cruz and Banderas.

The screening will take place at the Park Theatre in Goderich beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 or $8 for The Livery members.  All proceeds support The Livery, home of Goderich’s Little Theatre.

For more information, please email rob@rmcauley.ca.

REMEMBRANCE DAY

St. Joseph and Area Historical Society will host a Remembrance Day Service on Friday, Nov. 11 and the public is invited to attend.

The service will begin at 10:50 a.m. in St. Joseph Memorial Park at the corner of the Zurich-Hensall Road and Hwy 21.

BLYTH FESTIVAL

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Bayfield Artist, Anne Laviolette, has captured the activity during packing up time at the Goderich Saturday Market in this 10 X 10 oil on canvas entitled, “Sun Shower. It is just one of 118 pieces of art by regional talents available to bid on at the Blyth Festival Online Art Auction. (Photo courtesy event website)


The Blyth Festival’s Second Online Art Auction, “10 X 10 in 2022” went live on the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 1.

There are 118 pieces of original work available to be bid on all created in a 10 X 10 format. Talented regional artists are showcased as well as some up and coming artists as the auction features pieces by 20 secondary school students whose work has been guided by their Art teacher Julie Gillam of Central Huron Secondary School in Clinton.

To view all the art up for auction visit: Auction Catalog. Those who wish to place a bid on a piece are asked to register by visiting here. It is quick and easy and there is no obligation to buy nor will there be a request for a credit card number. The auction will close Dec. 1st at noon.

Funds raised will help support the work of the Blyth Festival. For more information regarding this event check out the further details or email: jlamb@blythfestival.com.

UNITED WAY

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Rev. JoAnn Todd (left), of St. Paul’s-Trinity Anglican Church in Wingham joined Lisa Harper (right) representing United Way Perth Huron, to accept a cheque for $5,000 from Steve Burke, of Britespan Building Systems to go toward the creation of the Northern Huron Connection Centre which will be located in the church’s parish hall starting early next year. (Submitted photo)


United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is proud to announce the location of UWPH’s Northern Huron Connection Centre (NHCC) and celebrate Britespan Building Systems’ $5,000 donation to the project.

“This is an exciting day,” said UWPH Executive Director Ryan Erb. “We are happy to announce St. Paul’s-Trinity Anglican Church as the home of the connection centre in Wingham. Rev. JoAnn Todd and the congregation of St. Paul’s-Trinity recognized the need to support vulnerable people within the community and offered their parish hall as the home site for the NHCC.”

“We’d also like to thank Britespan for their generous donation to the NHCC,” added Lisa Harper, UWPH manager Community Development, Northern Huron. “To nurture this project, we need the support of local businesses and community members. We appreciate Britespan’s commitment to Northern Huron and United Way.”

“We are pleased to make a donation in support of the Northern Huron Connection Centre,” said VP of Finance at Britespan, Steve Burke. “We aren’t only donating to the centre. We are contributing to the overall success of our community.”

Serving Howick, Morris-Turnberry and North Huron, the NHCC is intended as a welcoming, safe space for the community’s most vulnerable citizens to rest, access basic needs, healthcare services, identification assistance and more. Partnerships with agencies, including Choices for Change, the organization chosen by UWPH to operate the centre, mean those using the NHCC can access important services and support under one roof. UWPH is planning to open the centre in February of 2023.

HOCKEY HEROES

Pro Hockey Heroes in support of Huron Hospice will present a benefit hockey game where Former NHL All-Stars face off against the Goderich Firefighters at Maitland Recreation Centre on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023.

This exciting game starts at 2 p.m. and will feature members of the Goderich Fire Fighters facing off against a full line-up of former NHL hockey heroes. This fantastic community event promises lots of skills and lots of laughs, and is guaranteed to be fun and memorable for all ages!

Recent Pro Hockey Hero lineups have included: Wendel Clark, Gary Leeman, Bernie Nicholls, Steve Thomas, Dave McLlwain, Craig Muni, Dave Hutchison, Daryll Shannon and more!

This game is in support of the Goderich Firefighters’ charity of choice: Huron Hospice.

For more than 29 years, families have turned to Huron Hospice for support at the end-of-life providing both community-based palliative care and residence-based hospice care for people as well as 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 their services.

Tickets for the game start at $30 (plus HST) with additional discounts available by calling 1-888-777-9793.

REMEMBER THIS

THE YOUNG CANUCKSTORIANS PROJECT

FEATURING BAYFIELD’S OWN MAUD STIRLING

In February of this year, Bayfield Guiding was invited to take part in an exciting opportunity by the Huron County Museum – “The Young Canuckstorians Project” (Canuckstorians). The Guides, Pathfinders and Rangers were asked to select from a list of historically significant Huron County women to research and write a script about with guidance from Sinead Cox at the Museum.

After a few weeks of dedicated work they made a visit to Faux Pop Station in Goderich where under the enthusiastic direction of on-air personality Roz Elliott and audio expert Andrew Bouck they became voice actors! Their voices were then lended to animated characters created to share the stories they wrote.

Canuckstorians is the brainchild of animator Mickey Maple who brought Bayfield Guiding’s characters to life while highlighting some exceptional people, both living and dead, that once called Huron County home. The projects were sponsored by Bruce Power, Goderich IODE and Local LiUNA 1059.

Today marks the fIfth instalment of a seven part series on “The Young Canuckstorians Project” in Remember This. We will be sharing this series of animations with our readers in the lead up to their Gala Premiere which will take place in the Huron County Museum theatre on Saturday, Nov. 26. This week we share the story of Bayfield’s own Maud Stirling, a nursing sister in WWI recognized for her bravery in the face of great adversity. Her story features the voices of Bayfield Guiding members, Riley and Mekka.

LEST WE FORGET

SUN SHONE ON VILLAGE’S SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE

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Mild temperatures and sunshine greeted the generous crowd that turned out for the village’s Remembrance Day Service held on the morning of Nov. 6th in Clan Gregor Square.

PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

Mild temperatures and sunshine greeted the generous crowd that turned out for the village’s Remembrance Day Service held on the morning of Nov. 6th in Clan Gregor Square.

Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 140 as well as 3144 Canadian Army and Air Cadets both from Clinton formed a Color Party and they were joined by members of Bayfield Guiding.  Members of the Bayfield and Area Fire Department were also present at the ceremony wearing their dress uniform.

Ian Matthew, acted as Master of Ceremony, at the service. He was joined by Judy Sparks who led the singing of three songs, “O’Canada”, “O God Our Help in Ages Past” and “God Save the King”. Paul Dearlove, performed The Last Post and The Reveille on the bugle while Craig Downe, of Toronto, provided poignant music on the bagpipes.

Peter Jeffers offered the Roll of Honor and read the poem, “In Flanders Fields”. The Roll of Honor for both World Wars was read out at the service. Bayfield’s soldiers lost in the 1914-1918 conflict were: Edward Adley, Arthur Clarke, Harvey Currie, Kenneth Currie, Russel Erwin, Victor Evens, Allen McDonald, Robert McLeod and Wilfred Toms. Those men lost in the battles of 1939-1945 were: Charles Stewart Cann, Robert David James Hopson and Richard V. Weston.

Tom and Marilyn McMahon, representing the Clinton Legion, were in charge of distributing the wreaths. Tom laid a number of these wreaths including those representing: World War I & II, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Gulf Wars I & II, Afghanistan & Iraq Wars, Trinity Anglican Church and the Bayfield Optimist Club. Marilyn laid the wreath for the UN Peacekeepers. The remaining wreaths were laid by:  MPP Ben Lobb, Government of Canada; Susan Brooks, Province of Ontario; President Shirley Chalmers, Royal Canadian Legion, Br.140; Bill Whetstone, Municipality of Bluewater; Tony Hutchins, Korean War; Sailor Second Class Jaci VanAltena, H.M.C.S Provost; representatives from 3144 RCACC, Canadian Army and Air Cadets; Mario Lusse, Rhodesian Veterans; Jim Kuhn, Bayfield and Area Fire Department; Doug Willis, St. Andrew’s United Church; Jim Knox, Knox Presbyterian Church; Mike DeCorte, Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce; President Brent Gotts, Bayfield Lions Club; Ruth Gibson, Bayfield Historical Society; Riley, Millie, Ruby and Maggie, members of Rangers and Brownies on behalf of Bayfield Guiding.

Bayfield’s services are held on the Sunday prior to Nov. 11, when musicians, clergy and legion members can avail themselves to the smaller centres.

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

PIXILATED

 IMAGE OF THE WEEK

Sunny Fall Day

Sunny Fall Day…By Erin Carroll

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

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Melody Falconer-Pounder

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As often as time allows, my husband and I pack a lunch and head to one of our favorite greenspaces in this corner of the world – Naftel’s Creek Conservation Area. We have a spot near the gently babbling water where we like to sit and share a lunch while soaking in the calm surroundings. I know we aren’t the only ones that enjoy walks in this wooded area – evidence of others can be found at the entrance where an abundance of “walking sticks” have been left propped up against a bench waiting for the next adventurer.

So, what if Naftel’s Creek Conservation Area ceased to exist? What if the  provincial government decided the land would be better suited for the construction of new houses? Ludicrous idea, right? Well, for people living in the areas surrounding Ontario’s Greenbelt this could quickly become reality.

It isn’t often I get two articles across my desk in the same week on the same topic but it happened this week. The stories offer information regarding the Ontario Government’s Bill 23 and that same government’s reneging on its promise to keep the Greenbelt intact. The Greenbelt, created in 2005, is the world’s largest protecting farmland, forests, wetlands, rivers and lakes.

The first story submitted by the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority can be found above. The second was submitted by a volunteer with Blue Bayfield and I am sharing my space with them this week. Both stories offer ways in which you can try to impress upon the government that they are headed down the wrong path with their current plan. If you are so inclined there may be no more appropriate time to tell government officials to “Take a hike!” Beloved spaces like Naftel’s Creek may depend on it.  – Melody

Did You Know…that the Government of Ontario has very recently proposed Bill 23, “More Homes Built Faster Act, 2022?” Bill 23 claims that it will increase incentives for rental and affordable housing. However, in the opinion of many environmental organizations, it is an attack on Conservation Authorities, the Growth Plan, the Planning Act, the Endangered Species Act and other important legislation. Its provisions will not create new livable communities. What it will do instead is weaken environmental protection and threaten democracy by limiting public involvement. Requirements to notify the public about development plans, as well as the right of the public to appeal municipal decisions will be removed. Bill 23 threatens wetlands because of the changes in evaluating them and designating them as significant.

Did You Also Know…that the Government of Ontario is reneging on its pledge to protect the Greenbelt? The government is proposing to allow development on 7,400 acres of the Greenbelt.

Removing land from the Greenbelt, in addition to Bill 23, will undo years of hard work and slow progress toward protecting Ontario’s environment. Is that what we want, particularly in our time of unprecedented climate change?

What You Can Do… Make a submission to the Standing Committee on Heritage, Infrastructure and Cultural Policy, responsible for reviewing and approving or modifying the bill. The Standing Committee is inviting feedback from community stakeholders. Keep checking Ontarionature.org and EnvironmentalDefence.ca for more updates and action alerts.

Please note that the Bill is already past second reading so there is not a lot of time to speak out.

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