Pharmasave
bayfield breeze issue

The Bayfield BreezeIssue 717 Week 15 Vol 14

April 5, 2023

2269 views

Issue 717 Week 15 Vol 14
Print Friendly, PDF & Email

ANNUAL EGG HUNT THIS SUNDAY

52013995926_fb74da1cd7_o

Skilled hands concentrated on picking up foil wrapped eggs at the annual hunt in Clan Gregor Square in 2022. This year the hunt will be held on Sunday, Apr. 9. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


Chocolate loving youngsters need to circle this Sunday, Apr. 9 on their adult’s day planners as that is the date for the Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the Bayfield Optimist Club!

Approximately four thousand molded, chocolate Easter eggs, will be tossed on the lawn in Clan Gregor Square for the annual event. Children will be invited to scramble for the eggs starting precisely at 1 p.m.

Those youngsters who participate in the event are reminded to bring a container to collect their chocolate treasures in and remember the hunt happens very quickly so be sure to be on time.

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY WILDFLOWER THEMED HIKE

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) is excited to announce their hiking events for April and May.

To celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 22, the BRVTA is hosting the 9th Annual Earth Day Hike and Village Cleanup. The theme of the hike is ‘What is a Watershed?” with special guest Michele Martin, an environmental consultant from Kitchener.

Hikers are asked to meet at Clan Gregor Square at 9 a.m. The Village Cleanup will begin at 10:30 a.m. following the hike, also meeting at the Clan Gregor Pavilion. Local groups, businesses and individual citizens are invited to check in and choose a route from the Village map. The Bayfield Trails Team will provide garbage bags. Participants will then go for a walk in their assigned area picking up litter. Bags can be returned to the Square for disposal. Those who take part are asked to please wear bright colored clothing and gloves.

On May 6, all are invited to join in a Wildflower Hike at the Bannockburn Tract (74739 Bannockburn Line) starting at 10 a.m. Join Huron County Forester Dave Pullen and wildflower enthusiast Robert Tremain to learn about some of the beautiful indigenous flora in the area. This hike is free and open to the public without pre-registration. Attendees are asked to leave their dogs at home for this hike. Please note that this hike is at the Bannockburn Tract, not the Bannockburn Conservation Area.  The tract is south of Mill Road.  The walk will be about 3 km on mostly flat terrain and will last about 90 minutes.

The BRVTA will also be hosting a Birdwatching Hike on May 20 at Windmill Farm with George Ebers as the guide. The hike will begin at 8:30 a.m. and is open to BRVTA members only. There is a limit of 20 participants, and people are asked to pre-register by emailing Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com.

Anyone who would like to become a member of the BRVTA can register at Bayfield Trails Memberships. Please leave canine friends at home for this hike as well.

The schedule is subject to change, so always check for updates in the Bayfield Breeze, the BRVTA Facebook page and the Municipality of Bluewater events calendar, or contact hike co-ordinator Ralph Blasting by calling 519 525-3205 or emailing him at the address given above.

AFTERSUN FIRST FILM IN INDIE SERIES

Bayfield Indie Film Festival Logo
The Bayfield Indie Film Series will soon be making its debut!

Screen Shot 2023-03-27 at 12.47.44 PMBayfield Indie Film Series will debut its first film, “Aftersun”, at the Bayfield Town Hall on Apr. 12.

Aftersun is a beautiful and unusual coming-of-age film about a father and daughter who embark on a journey together to a Turkish seaside resort. The story is told 20 years later by Sophie as she struggles to reconcile the father she adored with the person he was. Aftersun is a film about love and loss, and making memories. It’s a film people won’t forget.

Aftersun, written and directed by Charlotte Wells, won the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best First Film. The film received seven awards at the British Independent Film Awards, including Best Film. Paul Mescal (of Normal People and God’s Creatures) received a nomination for best actor at the Oscars.

Frankie Corio, who plays the young Sophie, is a first time actor, having won the part because her mother had sent her photo to a casting agent in response to an ad on Facebook looking for “tomboyish girls” between the ages of 10-12. Aftersun could be the debut of a future acting career for Frankie as she has already received nominations for Best Young Actor and Young Performer of the Year at Critics Choice Awards and Critics’ Circle Film Awards.

The film will commence at 7 p.m. with the doors to the Bayfield Town Hall opening at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the door for $12 or people can purchase a season pass, which includes three movies, at The Village Bookshop for $30.

And congratulations to Meredith Needles on winning two free passes in the Bayfield Indie Film Series Instagram contest. Stay tuned to @bayfieldindiefilmseries for more contests.

DELEGATE FROM COP27 CLIMATE CONFERENCE TO SPEAK AT EARTH DAY CELEBRATION

Screen Shot 2023-03-28 at 12.41.41 PM

Alexandra Ho (Submitted photo)

Following the Ninth Annual Earth Day Hike and Village Cleanup organized by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association for the morning of Apr 22 members are invited to an Earth Day Celebration hosted by Blue Bayfield.

Starting at 2 p.m., members of the community are invited to St. Andrew’s United Church to hear featured speaker Alexandra Ho, who was a delegate from the University of Waterloo’s Climate Institute at the COP27 Climate Conference, recently held in Egypt.

Ho is a Master of Climate Change student with a background in Psychology and English Literature. She focuses on understanding the relationships between climate change communications and behavioural choice-making as well as the impacts of climate change on mental health and psychological wellbeing, particularly among youth.

Blue Bayfield and the organizing committee are honored to have Jordan George from the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point Community to offer the land acknowledgement.

Bayfield is fortunate, not only to be home to many visual artists, but also instrumental and vocal groups, a few of whom will be highlighted at this day of music and celebration. The afternoon will begin with a performance by accomplished Bayfield artists Mary McGoldrick on piano and Danuta Wyant on cello, performing works by George Harrison and Jay Unger.

The Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS) and the Glee Sisters that will also offer musical performances.

“The beauty of the earth is expressed through art and language in many forms and on April 22, you will hear musical sounds that honor the earth,” said Ray Letheren representing Blue Bayfield. “As our theme for the day, we have chosen the words of Chief Seattle of the Suquamish and Duwamish Native American tribes, in what is now Washington state. His statement of truth, ‘The earth does not belong to us, we belong to the earth’, was written in 1854 and is more relevant today than ever before. The vocal edition that will be performed at Earth Day is an inspiring rendition of this writing.”

The MC for the afternoon will be Roz Elliott who is well known for her program on Staysh TV.

Attendees at this performance are invited to take with them white pine seeds and growing pods.

“We hope that in a few years, this day will be recalled by many when the trees mature and take their place in our ecosystem,” said Shelagh Sully, representing Blue Bayfield.

Also available at the afternoon event will be the Blue Bayfield Publication, “The Great Lakes: A Time of Reckoning”. Donations would be welcomed.

St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in Bayfield.

EVERYTHING NEEDED TO GET READY FOR SUMMER AT HOME AND LEISURE SHOW

52042904883_d4ff59da80_o

At the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Leisure Show held in 2022 the representatives at the Extreme Pure Clean booth were very cheerful and welcoming to visitors. The 2023 event will be held on Apr. 22-23. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


The annual Bayfield Lions Club Home and Leisure Show is back and better than ever! It is the event of the season for homeowners, buyers, renovators, DIYers and more! And it’s springing up fast this year. People are encouraged to mark their  calendars for Apr. 22- 23.

The show will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.  The Lions Club pride themselves on making this event “free to the public” and although the admission is free, they gratefully accept donations to the local food bank.

Attendees are asked to remember to get their door prize ticket when they enter, then proceed to “Open Expo” located on the main floor. Those who work up an appetite strolling the booths can grab a bite at the food court upstairs as they stroll by even more exhibitors.

A highlight of this year’s show will be the display of an original Penhale Carriage. It was crafted by the late Tom Penhale of Bayfield who found international fame as the world’s foremost maker of horse-drawn wagons. Snippety the Clown will be on hand to provide free face painting for the kids while the big kids will no doubt enjoy a stroll outside to see an exhibit of fun recreational vehicles.

This is going to be one of the biggest home and leisure shows in the area, not only because it’s the only Home Show in the area, but because it’s a full show of everything needed to get ready for the Spring and Summer seasons be it home, cottage, camper or rental.

Visitors can look forward to seeing close to 100 exhibitors located upstairs and downstairs and outside of the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena, including: park models, trailers, bear chairs, home improvement, electric bikes, and even a hot tub.

“We sold out of our main floor Exhibitor booths very quickly this year,” noted Tony Van Bakel, of the Bayfield Lions Home Show Committee.  “I think it had to do with the earlier start of our marketing this year.”

For anyone interested in signing on as an Exhibitor there are two options left: upstairs booths for $350 and outdoor booths for $150.  This year, the Lions Club Committee is extra excited about a great show with some fascinating exhibitor arrangements for inside and outside the community centre and arena.

This is a great way to celebrate the warmer seasons in Bayfield, as the days will be brighter, the flowers will be starting to blossom and the buds will be popping on the trees!  The Lions invite everyone to help them welcome Spring and come on out and experience this one-of-a-kind show!

For more information visit: bayfieldlions.ca.

KITTENS ARE ARRIVING AT THE RESCUE

Ready or not it is kitten season!

This week’s Adopt a BFF cats of the week, Jilly and Cato, are both new Mommas.

Jilly came to the Rescue as a stray. She had been hanging out in a neighborhood where some people had threatened to do her harm. She was taken in by a young woman with a huge heart and four cats of her own. She kept her in a spare room for the safety of all the cats. Although very thin and starving she was calm and friendly. Once inside she slept for several days out of sheer exhaustion. As she gained some weight and confidence she came out of her shell and wanted nothing more than love – and food!

At that time she was brought to the Rescue and taken to be vetted. She was diagnosed with an upper respiratory and eye infection which is not unusual for a stray or feral cat. Once she settled in and her infections were cleared up she quickly became a favorite at the Rescue not just with the volunteers but the other cats as well. Despite her popularity Jilly managed to keep a secret.

“It was a bit of a shock to discover she was pregnant as she was still fairly thin.  But she decided to surprise us with three little babies,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF. “Unfortunately, due to her young age and not being in the best of health, two babies did not survive but she is over the top in love with and so very proud of her sweet baby Greyson.”

Cato is another young mother who delivered four babies out in the cold during a snowy night. She brought her babies to the kind people who had been feeding her – they made her a heated little house for warmth and called the Rescue to surrender them.

“These little babies have just opened their eyes and are starting to move around. However, this very protective Momma doesn’t let them get too far away – you can see how she hangs onto them in the accompanying photo,” said Penhale.

Cato’s brood is composed of two little Calico’s, a Torti and a little Tabbi, three girls and a boy.

“I can’t imagine how many babies this little group could have made in the next cycle. Thank goodness they are inside, safe, warm and well fed,” said Penhale.

These Mommas will be retiring from baby making and their kittens will also be spayed/neutered when old enough and then they will be looking for their forever homes.

To learn more please contact BFF via email at bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com. The adoption fee is now $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Not able to adopt but still want to help? Donations are always gratefully accepted and can be e-transferred to the email above.

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

The season of “hope” has arrived at Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield as they celebrate Spring and Easter.

The congregation will host a Good Friday service on Apr. 7 followed by their Easter Sunday service on Apr. 9. Both services will be held at 11 a.m.

Special music is also in the offing in the coming weeks. At the Apr. 23 service,  Roy and Lynne Price will share their talents as vocalist and flautist respectively and then on May 21 Linda Street will return as a soloist.

Rev. Lisa Dolson will be leading a new book discussion beginning May 1st with a focus on “Shalom Sistas, Living Wholeheartedly in a Brokenhearted World” by Osheta Moore and Sarah Bessey. The book can be ordered through The Village Bookshop in Bayfield. All are welcome to join.

BAYFIELD LIBRARY

Unfortunately, the evening of storytelling, entitled, “Tangled Yarns” scheduled for the Bayfield Public Library on Thursday, Apr. 6 has been cancelled.

TAOIST TAI CHI

Develop a mind that is dynamic yet clear and calm and a spirit that is resilient yet light and peaceful. Taoist Tai Chi® practice is a moving meditation that reduces stress and helps people find joy. Physically it will make individuals feel energetic, balanced, strong and supple.

Taoism teaches that health comes when body, mind and spirit work together in harmony. Taoist Tai Chi® arts grew from this tradition and are a powerfully beneficial path of ultimate transformation.

An Open House and introductory session will be held on Tuesday, Apr. 11 at the Bayfield Community Centre from 1:30-3 p.m. For further information please call Doug at 519 565-5187.

LEGO CLUB

Families with an interest in Lego design and creativity are invited to come and further “their love for the brick” again this month when the second meeting of the Bayfield Lego Club will be held on Saturday, Apr. 15.

The club’s second session will take place from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Trinity St James Anglican Church and will be sponsored by the Optimist Club of Bayfield.

Bayfield Lego Club is open to all children ages four and up accompanied by an adult. Bricks will be provided for use at the meetings and participants will be encouraged to build a creation of their own accord or based on a monthly theme. Following a time on display in the Parish Hall the projects will be broken down by volunteers to make the bricks available for use at the next meeting.

Judging from the turn-out at the first meeting the club is going to need some more Lego to satisfy the demand of their creators. Organizers are now accepting donations of any Lego pieces or sets that people may no longer have a use for. To donate please email Melody Falconer-Pounder at melody.pounder@gmail.com.

Trinity St James Anglican Church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.

BRVTA

Screen Shot 2023-03-27 at 10.47.18 AMThe Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) would like to invite the community to join them for a trail evening and movie presentation on Wednesday, Apr. 19 at the Bayfield Town Hall.

One of the Top 10 environmental movies of the decade, David Attenborough’s “A Life on Our Planet” will be shown at 7 p.m. Not only is this a beautifully produced and researched documentary on climate change, but it also offers solutions. Admission is by donation.

Also during this evening time will be allotted to thank the BRVTA’s Trail Landowner Partners as well as to provide updates on activities for the coming year and ways to become involved in some of this year’s projects!

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) Annual Meeting will be held on Apr. 19 at Olio in Bayfield.

All business owners are invited to come and enjoy free appetizers as well as $5 beer and wine while catching up with other business owners in the area. The meeting will run from 4-5 p.m. with updates from Mayor of Bluewater Paul Klopp, some information sharing which will assist your business from the BACC Social Media Manager, Wendy Vasco and a quick year in review from the Chamber. This meeting will be followed by a social time from 5-6 p.m. when attendees will be able to meet and chat with members of the BACC Board of Directors and network with other business owners.

Tickets are free but space is limited so people are encouraged to reserve as early as possible by visiting: BACC Happy Hour Tickets.

Come out, bring a business friend and be sure to ask about a special rate for new businesses that purchase a membership at the Annual Meeting!

“Are you a business owner, tradesperson or do you provide professional services to our community? Are you looking for ways to be more involved in your community? Why not join the Chamber Board of Directors?” said BACC Secretary-Treasurer, Terri Louch. “We invite you to submit a letter of introduction (villageofbayfield@gmail.com) and let us know who you are and why you would like to be on the Board. We currently have three Member at Large positions available and look forward to adding your name to our amazing slate!”

WESTERN HURON COUNTY ALUMNI

77FB6EF46DDC4375ABAD6D9C3808B56F
The Dean of Education at Western University is putting the call out to all UWO alum in hopes of starting a Western University Huron County Alumni Chapter. In addition to her full-time position as Dean, Bayfield resident, Donna Kotsopoulos, is herself a UWO alum (M.Ed.’04, Ph.D.’07).

“Last year, I had the opportunity to attend the Elgin County Alumni Chapter event, this group of alumni host events to raise funds for Western scholarships for Elgin County students,” said Kotsopoulos. “I wonder if there is interest in starting a similar group for Huron County?”

Anyone who may have an interest in establishing such a group is invited to fill out this form: Expression of Interest Huron County Alumni Chapter.

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

Bayfield Agricultural Society LogoThe Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) is looking to engage those new to the community, those who have wanted to support the BAS and the Bayfield Community Fair, those who believe in organizations that promote agriculture and food, and those who are interested in supporting a local longstanding organization.

The BAS offers anyone interested the opportunity to:

  • Volunteer in a wide range of activities at the Fair
  • Draw on strengths and support a good cause
  • Grow leadership skills in a supportive environment
  • Meet new people
  •  Share new ideas

Some committees require less than five hours a year of time, some require organizational skills, and some activities require hands-on workers.

The main focus of the BAS is the Bayfield Community Fair – a three-day festival that brings rural and urban residents together through competitions, entertainment, and rural displays of animals and equipment. The Bayfield Fair is always held on the third weekend in August. This year’s Fair will take place on Aug. 18-20.

It has been said that it takes a village to make the Bayfield Fair happen each year, and it’s never too early to start recruiting volunteers to help with all aspects of organizing the Fair.

Specific areas of the Bayfield Fair that the BAS currently needs volunteers for include woodworking, farm products, youth section, fundraising letter writing, flowers, parade, gate coordination, food booth, setting up and taking things down after the Fair, and wreath making in the fall.

The response from the community and beyond in 2022 brought volunteers, both young people and those more seasoned, who worked together to get the fairgrounds ready and help put on last year’s Fair. Anyone who can spare a few hours or more to help out with the 2023 Bayfield Fair is kindly asked to email info@bayfieldfair.ca.

FOOD BANK

Bayfield Food Bank Logo

Volunteers with the Bayfield Area Food Bank would like to invite people to add menstruation products such as sanitary pads, liners and tampons to their shopping lists in the coming weeks if they wish to donate as these items are low in stock on the BAFB shelves.

BAFB now has a dedicated phone number: 519 525-8286. People can also contact the food bank via email at bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com.

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 listed above or a donation can be received on-line through the www.canadahelps.org website.

ANGLICAN CHURCH

Holy Week has arrived at Trinity St James Anglican Church and people in the community may wish to note these special service times: Maundy Thursday, Apr. 6 – 6 p.m. at Trinity St. James; Good Friday, Apr. 7 – 10 a.m. at the Parish of the Holy Spirit, 21 Jarvis Street in Seaforth; and Easter Sunday, Apr. 9 – 11 a.m. at Trinity St James.

There will be a Morning Prayer service on Apr. 16. A highlight of the month at Trinity St. James will be Camp Sunday on Apr. 23. Gerry Adam from Camp Huron will be a guest speaker during the 11 a.m. service and all are welcome to attend to learn more about this very special place for youth!

Trinity St. James Anglican church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.

BAYFIELD PLAYGROUP

The EarlyON Child and Family Centre is hosting the Bayfield Playgroup at the Bayfield Arena and Community Centre, 4 Jane Street, on Thursday mornings.

The sessions are held from 10-11:30 a.m. and are free to all families/caregivers with infants to children aged six years.

The Playgroup offers indoor, outdoor and virtual program options as well as telephone and email support for parents and caregivers. In addition to the program being welcoming, fun and interactive, they provide parents with ideas of activities to do at home to enhance their child’s development.

Pre-registration is recommended by emailing kkyle@goderich.ca or earlyon@goderich.ca or calling 519 524-9999. To learn more visit www.keyon.ca or follow them on Instagram and Facebook at @HuronEarlyON.

YOUTH READING CHALLENGE

Calling all Bayfield area tweens and teens! The Bayfield Public Library (Bayfield Branch)  is challenging youth ages 12 to 18 to read at least one book a month from January to June 2023 for a chance to win some amazing prizes. Are you up for the challenge?

For every book a youth reads, their name will be entered to win one of the prizes listed below. Draws will be made at the end of the program. The Bayfield Branch has a tracking form which can be picked up from the branch during regular hours, or can be completed by downloading a form at: Bayfield Teen Reading Challenge Form.

Looking for ideas of what to read? Explore the Huron County Library’s online catalogue or speak with branch staff who are eager to offer reading recommendations.

Prizes for the Bayfield Branch reading challenge include, but are not limited to: $250 gift card from Forever Furniture; $25 gift card from The Village Bookshop; four, $25 gift cards to The Village Bookshop from Pioneer Park; four, Kids Kraft Workshop gift cards from Crichet Handmade Designs; a selection of graphic novels from Friends of Bayfield Library; selection of gift cards from the Bayfield Optimist Club; Hyacinth Bulb kit from Huron Ridge Greenhouses; Sherpa blanket from the Little Inn of Bayfield; selection of books from the Bayfield Agricultural Society;

handmade products from the Bayfield Lavender Farm and Great Lakes Glory; Bayfield booklets from the Bayfield Historical Society; and swag from the Virtual High School & Bruce Power.

All completed tracking forms must be returned to the Bayfield Branch or emailed to bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca  by the contest deadline of Wednesday, June 28.

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.

ST. ANNE’S CONCERT BAND TAKES GOLD

ST.Anne'sBand2023

The St. Anne’s Concert Band made their return to competition on Thursday, March 30 at MusicFest Regionals in Orillia, ON where they were awarded with Gold. (Submitted photo)


St. Anne’s Concert Band is Gold in Orillia, ON!

After three years of competitive hiatus due to the pandemic, the St. Anne’s Concert Band made their return to competition on Thursday, March 30 at MusicFest Regionals in Orillia. The 27 member band performed two pieces of music exceedingly well and were awarded a Gold standing along with an invitation to compete at MusicFest Canada Nationals which will be held in Niagara Falls in May.

Elianne Kreuger received special recognition with an Honour Award for her dedication to the music program and the concert band. As a fifth year student, she is the only student in the band to experience band before, during, and after the pandemic. Her commitment to music was recognized by festival judges, her bandmates and Josh Geddis, who teaches music and directs the Concert Band.

Prior to COVID, the St. Anne’s Concert Band was made up of over 50 students, half of whom were senior music students with three to four years of playing experience. During the pandemic with significant restrictions on playing, many students dropped out of band and stopped taking music.

“When the year started, we had 16 students in the band, that number has grown to 27 now. What makes this band particularly interesting is that five of the band members are in Grade nine and have only been playing their instrument for six months! Our senior students had an extremely shaky two and a half years of limited playing due to COVID. When you hear this group, they play like a band with twice the experience, and sound like a group twice their size. I am incredibly proud of these young musicians for bringing band back to St. Anne’s. Going from 16 to 27 members and a Gold standing in less than a year is a very fast turn-around,” said Geddis.

The St. Anne’s Band will head to Nationals in Niagara Falls where they will compete alongside approximately 175 of the best school ensembles from across the country in May.

Band members are also looking ahead to their annual “May Melodies” concert which will be held on Thursday, May 4th in the St. Anne’s Gym at 6:30 p.m. This concert will feature the Concert Band, Jazz Band, special guests and a performance by the Huron Perth Catholic District School Board (HPCDSB)  Huron County Honour Band which is made up of over 40 Grade 6-8 students playing alongside members of the St. Anne’s Band.

“May Melodies” will serve as a fundraiser for the music program. Admission is a suggested donation of $5 or more. Children under 12 are free.

St. Anne’s Catholic Secondary School is located at 353 Ontario Street in Clinton.

STORM CHASER SPEAKS AT FLOOD EMERGENCY PLANNING MEETING

Flood_Emergency_Planning_Meeting_2023_2

The keynote speaker, at the annual Flood Emergency Planning Meeting, hosted by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority on March 28, was Mark Robinson. He is a meteorologist with The Weather Network and he is also a storm chaser and co-host of two television series, “Stormhunters” and “Unearthed”. (Submitted photos)


Meteorologist and storm chaser Mark Robinson, of The Weather Network, spoke on March 28, about Extreme Weather in the Great Lakes Region. He was the keynote speaker at the annual Flood Emergency Planning Meeting hosted by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA).

Robinson, who has been present at 25 different hurricanes, is co-host of the television series “StormHunters”  and “Unearthed”. The speaker shared his experiences chasing storms including personal encounters with tornadoes.

It can be a challenge to forecast storm events in southern Ontario as storms pick up moisture as they pass over the Great Lakes, according to the presenter. Storms often develop along the lines of lake breezes blowing off of Lake Huron and this has the potential to cause severe weather and heavy rains.

Ontario is not immune to tornadoes, Robinson said. There were 60 confirmed tornadoes in Ontario in 2021 and, said Robinson, more than 40 of those were in southern Ontario.

“When we have these tornadoes in southern Ontario we’re talking about an extremely densely populated area and that is a big problem,” he said. “Yes, we see tornadoes, we see storms, just as strong in southern Ontario as we do down south. We’ve had multiple EF-4s.”

The Goderich tornado was an example of a tornado that started on Lake Huron, Robinson said. (One person died and 37 were injured in that Aug. 21, 2011 tornado, which was a severe F3 tornado on the Fujita Damage Intensity Scale).

“No country in the world gets more tornadoes than the United States,” Robinson told the crowd of more than 40 people. “We (in Canada) come a very close second. The geography of North America is set up perfectly to be a thunderstorm producing machine.”

As a storm chaser, Robinson has had a front-row seat for some major storms. He shared an example of a supercell storm that produced a tornado, about 1.5 kilometres wide, near Point Clark, where he was present. That storm started out on the lake.

“The funnel itself was buried way back into the storm itself,” he said. “This is the big issue with southern Ontario storms…because we have that extra shot of moisture from the Great Lakes, it gives us high-precipitation supercells.”

Flood_Emergency_Planning_Meeting_2023_NR

Shown in the photo are the four presenters at the Annual Flood Emergency Planning Meeting, hosted by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), and held at the Masonic Hall in Exeter on March 28. From l-r are: Ross Wilson, ABCA Water and Soils Resource coordinator; keynote speaker Mark Robinson, meteorologist and storm chaser, of The Weather Network; Davin Heinbuck, ABCA Water Resources coordinator; and Marissa Vaughan, chair of the ABCA Board of Directors.

With a tornado in Kansas, for example, the funnel might be clearly defined and seen whereas in an Ontario storm that tornado might be buried inside a wall of precipitation.

The Tornado Alley area doesn’t stop at the U.S.-Canada border but extends northward. One difference between Ontario and some midwestern or southern states of the United States is the extent of the impacts tornadoes tend to have. Most people have basements in Ontario so, in general, the impact may not be as severe as warm-weather locales, such as the southern U.S. states, where often buildings do not have basements.

A supercell thunderstorm may not be the most common type of storm in Ontario but it is a particular concern. Sometimes called ‘rotating’ thunderstorms, supercell storms have a rotating updraft or ‘mesocyclone.’

“Supercell storms don’t mean big storms,” Robinson said. “Sometimes people think supercell means giant storm…what it means is the central core of the storm is spinning.”

The supercell storms in Ontario sometimes aren’t as big as the storms in other parts of North America, such as the Tornado Alley region, but these storms in Ontario can still have tornadoes associated with them.

The presenter showed a video of an EF-5 storm, outside of Winnipeg, with a minivan, and even a house, uplifted and spun around in the tornado.

When people see a green sky during a storm event that’s generally because of the presence of hail, according to the speaker.

“What happens is you get the sunlight being filtered through and only the greens and blues make it through to your eye,” he said.

It is often easier to predict the approach of winter snowstorms than it is to predict a supercell thunderstorm, according to the presenter. The thunderstorms can be among the most destructive and also the hardest to predict.

The La Niña climate pattern, which leads to heavy rain and flooding in parts of Canada, has taken place for three years in a row.

“We’ve never had three years of a La Niña situation,” Robinson said. “This is the first time we’ve ever had that.”

This exceptional weather situation makes it harder to know what to expect in terms of coming weather events.

There isn’t enough evidence to connect any single event, such as a hurricane or fire, to climate change, he said, but if we look at 30 years of data we can begin to see changes happening to climate even in southern Ontario. The effects right now may not be as significant as on the west coast, or Texas, or Antarctica, but there are changes to Ontario’s weather, resulting from global warming. One of those changes is to extreme precipitation events and an increase in clusters of storms. There is also a shifting of Tornado Alley towards the northeast which brings it farther into southern Ontario.

It’s not always possible to link major storm events, in any given year, directly to the effects of climate change but looking over a 30-year period, the impacts of a changing climate are being seen, according to the presenter.

“We are already beginning to see some of the effects of climate change in southern Ontario and across North America,” according to Robinson.

The number of extreme rain and snow events is likely to increase, he said.

“We are seeing the probability of those nastier events increasing over time,” he said. “How fast that’s going to occur, that’s something we’re still working on.”

Southwestern Ontario may be less affected by climate change in the short term than some other parts of North America, he said. This part of North America could be a climate “refuge” of sorts, in the near term, compared to some other parts of North America, such as Texas and other southern states.

The flood emergency planning meeting took place at the Masonic Hall in Exeter. ABCA was able to host the event in person this year. There were 47 people who attended the meeting, including municipal Community Emergency Management Coordinators; local public health staff; police; Emergency Management Ontario; and county municipal representatives.

Staff from ABCA provided a review of the roles and responsibilities of the Province of Ontario; municipalities; conservation authorities; and other agencies during flood events. They spoke, at the annual Flood Emergency Planning Meeting, on the flood forecasting and warning program and provided a Spring flood outlook.

Ross Wilson, ABCA Water and Soils Resource Coordinator, spoke on the operation of Parkhill Dam; shoreline monitoring and messaging; and river watch, ice jams, and event monitoring and communications. ABCA staff collect data in the field with ‘boots on the ground’ and ‘eyes on the ground’ through river watch monitoring and by measuring, in the field, snowpack density.

Davin Heinbuck, ABCA Water Resources coordinator, described the Meteorological and Environmental Data Network ABCA uses. This network collects data from the Parkhill Climate Change Station; from the Volunteer Rain Gauge Network; and from the Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network. At stream gauge locations, ABCA collects data on precipitation; air temperature; water temperature; wind speed; wind direction; solar radiation; and soil moisture. Heinbuck provided a spring flood outlook indicating there was no risk of ice jams with no significant snow pack and river ice gone but that there was saturated ground so runoff would move quickly in the case of large rain events.

Heinbuck outlined the key players in flooding emergencies. He outlined the roles and responsibilities of the conservation authority, municipalities, and the Province of Ontario. He also described ABCA’s Flood Emergency Plan. He provided numerous examples of local flooding. He explained how ABCA protects life and property through programs that manage natural hazards such as flooding and erosion. Heinbuck also explained the different levels of flood messages. Those messages include Watershed Conditions Statements (Flood Outlook and Water Safety); and Shoreline Conditions Statements (for flooding and erosion). He also described the more serious levels of flood messages which are Flood Watches; and Flood Warnings (the most serious level of message for flooding that is imminent or occurring). He described how a ‘watch’ has the ingredients that would make a flood event possible and the warning indicates the ingredients are mixed together and have become a storm.

To learn more visit the flood messages page: Flooding.

UNITED WAY CELEBRATES SURPASSING GOAL

After a successful campaign raising $2,292,557 United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) had a reason to celebrate! And celebrate they did by honoring the spirit of community at an event held at the the Best Western Plus, Arden Park Hotel in Stratford on Thursday, March 30.

“We appreciate the incredible support of our region throughout the campaign,” said Ryan Erb, UWPH executive director. “Despite the economic challenges our community faced, donors stepped up to help us not only reach, but surpass our goal of $2.289 million. Another record-breaking year! We are humbled by the generosity and caring of Perth-Huron and see a brighter future ahead for the people we help support and the organization.”

“It was great to celebrate our campaign, as well as the volunteers, donors and communities who gave so much to UWPH,” said Rob Edney, UWPH campaign co-chair. “It takes a collective effort to ensure vulnerable people get the help they need, and the spirit of Perth-Huron was really on display tonight and throughout the campaign.”

“Thank you to everyone who attended tonight’s event,” added Leslie Edney, UWPH campaign co-chair. “To hear firsthand some of the ways UWPH’s work positively impacts local lives thanks to the generosity of our community is inspiring. We’re looking forward to returning next year as co-chairs and continuing UWPH’s work across our region.”

Two hundred and fifty-six guests enjoyed dinner generously provided by the Hayter family and heard about the positive impact their support has on local lives from speakers including: Elise Metcalf, Andrea Loohuizen, Gwyneth Woods, and Tanya Hefkey from the United Way Connection Centres in Exeter, Listowel, Stratford and Wingham. UWPH Executive Director Ryan Erb spoke about the organization’s Community Renewal Company initiative. Singer-songwriter Stephanie Sellers also performed.

UWPH presented Volunteer Spirit Awards to: Caroline Baker, Dariel Bateman, Gwen Bradley, Joan Brady, David Clarke, Cheryl Dunn, Kara Greydanus, Marilyn Holmes, Shawn Lawler and Randy Schwartzentruber. Home & Company Real Estate received a Workplace Spirit Award, Blackcreek Technologies picked up a Sponsor Spirit Award and Saputo Dairy Products received a Corporate Spirit Award.

The top 10 workplace fundraising campaigns were also highlighted, with FIO Automotive Canada topping the list by raising over $101,000 in employee donations. FIO also provided a dollar-for-dollar corporate match.

UWPH would also like to thank event sponsors: Best Western Plus, The Arden Park Hotel; Famme & Co.; IATSE Local 357; Sherwood Music; investStratford; and Samsonite.

LIGHT UP THE COMMUNITY WITH LOVE FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

minis_1296x

Hearts in the two sizes pictured, but in Neon Blue, are now available from Wuerth’s Shoes on The Square in Goderich as a fundraiser for the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Foundation. (Submitted photo)


The Alexandra Marine & General Hospital Foundation (AMGHF) is launching a new campaign in support of their treasured healthcare team.

The AMGHF is undertaking a new fundraiser and they hope that as a community people will join with them and show their love for their frontline workers with the purchase of a ‘Hero Heart’.  The AMGHF wants to help the community recognize their Healthcare/Frontline workers in a tangible and visible form. The AMGHF knows firsthand how hard they have worked and continue to work, and they are tired.

“As we reflect on the struggles and challenges brought on by this pandemic, there is also much to be grateful for. Many thanks go out to all the staff and physicians involved in the pandemic response. Thank you to our community and partners for supporting us and each other as we navigated through this once in a lifetime global event,”  said Jimmy Trieu, CEO and president, Huron Health System. “Let us be reminded that when we work together, we can tackle challenges that come our way.  The fight continues and we are prepared to care for the most vulnerable.”

Let’s light up the community with love for them.

“We have partnered with Our Glowing Hearts and we want to see a Neon Blue Heart in as many windows as possible. The hearts can remain in your window as long as you like, all year – even better!” said Sherry Marshall, Board chair, AMGHF. “Drop by Wuerth’s Shoes downtown Goderich (142 The Square) for a look at how beautiful these hearts are, and look around the community to see how many of our local businesses and residents are joining in. Join us and light up our community with love.”

This beautifully crafted LED neon heart is dedicated to the healthcare heroes who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. The heart is designed so that people can give it to a healthcare hero or place it in their front window to spread love to anyone passing by. Every heart comes with a baseplate and a screw for securely attaching it to the base plate. The base plate provides a sturdy base to place on a window sill. The frame is routered out of 3/4″ laminated hardwood, hand sanded, and assembled in Canada.  Each heart is unique and variations should be expected and treasured as a unique element. There are two sizes: Large – 12’x10’ and The Mini Heart – 7’x7’.

“We are so grateful for our healthcare team at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital. We have so many dedicated people at AMGH, they make it all work everyday, all day and all night. They are here for all of you,” said Kimberley Payne,  Executive director, AMGHF.  “We can show them in this beautiful, visible way how much we appreciate them. Let’s light up the community with love.”

For more information or to place an order for a Hero Heart please contact Kimberley Payne at kimberley.payne@amgh.ca or call 519 524-8508.

The AMGHF works in partnership with AMGH to ensure that quality health care is available to all residents of Huron County and neighboring communities. The AMGHF has been helping to enhance patient care and safety since 1993.

CHICKEN PRODUCERS DONATE TO GATEWAY

HP_Chicken_Producers_Donation

On Wednesday, March 15, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) received a donation of $1,500 from the Huron Perth Chicken Producers (HPCP) 2022 Annual Golf Tournament. Representing the tournament organizers at the cheque presentation were l-r: Kyle Van Wyk, HPCP; Jessica Kuiper, Poultry Sales representative, Wallenstein Feed & Supply Ltd.; and Alex Westerhout, HPCP. Accepting the cheque on behalf of Gateway Board Members was Nancy Simpson and Paul Tufts (not pictured). Gateway is very grateful to have received this funding and appreciates the support from the local group. These monies will be used to finance research projects that have a bearing on the health and well-being of Huron county residents and the well-being of local rural communities. (Submitted photo)


BILL C-234

On March 29, The House of Commons passed at third reading a private members’ bill (C-234) introduced by Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act.

Bill C-234 was adopted with 176 votes to 145 and will now go to the Senate for debate and review.

“I am grateful to my colleagues for their support of this important piece of legislation, as well as the numerous agricultural producer and grower associations and others who provided valuable input at the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food,” said Lobb in a statement.

Bill C-234 seeks to exempt on-farm natural gas and propane fuel use from the carbon tax, which will save thousands of dollars for Canadian farmers that rely on these fuels every day for their essential operations.

Lobb stated, “I look forward to working with my colleague the Honourable David Wells, Senator for Newfoundland and Labrador, who will be sponsoring the Bill as it goes through the Senate. Canadian farmers are counting on the support of senators to ensure Bill C-234 comes into effect.”

GREEN WASTE COLLECTION

Spring Green Waste Collection is being offered again this year during the month of April in the Municipality of Bluewater.

In the communities of Bayfield, Brucefield, Dashwood, Hensall, Kippen, Varna and Zurich, collection will take place on the last three Tuesdays of this month – Apr. 11, Apr. 18 and Apr. 25. This year, collection will also be offered in the Hay West and Stanley West Ward (lakeshore subdivisions west of Hwy 21). In these two areas collection will take place on Wednesday, Apr. 26 only.

Additionally, the municipality provides two locations for disposing of green waste which are open year round – the Stanley Landfill and the Hensall Green Waste Depot.  Green waste can be disposed of at the Stanley Landfill with a valid blue card when it is open to the public. Green waste can be dropped off anytime at the depot in Hensall which is located at the end of Richmond Street South.

For the do’s and don’ts of how green waste should be presented for collection visit: Spring Green Waste Collection.

LIVERY FILM FEST

everything_everywhere_all_at_once_ver3
The Livery Film Fest’s final film of the season is “Everything Everywhere  All at Once.

People will have an opportunity to view this multiple Oscar award winning film on Apr. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Park Theatre, located at 30 Courthouse Square in Goderich. Everything Everywhere All at Once brought home plenty of hardware including: Best Picture, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Directing, and Best Original Screenplay.

When humble laundry owner Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh) has to go face to face with tax auditor Deirdre Beaubeirdre (Jamie Lee Curtis), she is able to rely on skills she learned in her “other” lives to save her business, her family, and the world.

This film is charming and funny as Evelyn draws on skills she never knew she had. She is supported by her husband, Waymond Wang (Ke Huy Quan – who’s other memorable roles were as “Short Round” – the child in Indiana Jones, and “Data” in the Goonies).  Besides the tax audit, Evelyn needs to deal with her traditional Chinese father, and her rebellious daughter while they plan for Chinese New Year.  Chaos may reign in life, but it’s the moments of family love and camaraderie that are most important.

This is the perfect film to see with others in a theatre on the big screen! The ticket booth opens at 6:30 p.m. the night of the performance.

Following the screening, a film talk will be held immediately after at Paddy O’Neil’s Restaurant Pub. The pub is located in the Bedford Hotel at 92 Courthouse Square.’

For more information, please email: Livery Film Fest Chair Rob McAuley at rob@rmcauley.ca.

SOUTH HURON CHOIR

The South Huron Community Choir will be presenting two performances of “What a Wonderful World”, a concert featuring an orchestra, soloists and handbells, later this month.

The choir is led by Artistic Director Dr. Richard Heinzle and accompanist by Lori Danylchuk.

Performance will be given on Friday, Apr. 28 at Exeter United Church, 42 James Street, and on Saturday, Apr. 29 at Huron Shores United Church, 25 Main Street in Grand Bend. Both concerts begin at 7 p.m.

Advance tickets are $25 and $30 at the door. For tickets please call Ruth at 519 235-1778 or Harry at 519 235-0759 or email southhuronchoirs@gmail.com.

To learn more about the choir, an outreach program of Exeter United Church, as well as the upcoming concerts, please visit www.southhuronchoirs.com.

GRAND WOMEN

The Grand Women, a part of the Sunset Community Foundation (SCF) , will be holding a High Tea Social on Tuesday, Apr. 18 relaunch their event festivities to regroup and catch up!

This event will begin at 2 p.m. at Isadora’s Tea Parlour, 15 Ontario Street South, Grand Bend.

Currently, the Grand Women have 60 plus members and they are always welcoming more philanthropic women to join.  Each member has made a commitment of a minimum of $1,000 to the SCF to show their support for their community.

Tickets are $20. Those wishing to attend are asked to E-transfer funds to lisa@sunsetcommunityfoundation.ca  before noon on Apr. 17.

The agenda will include updates about their Strategic Goals and Governance from Deb Gill, Board chair; and Financials and Granting from Chris Thompson, Board and Finance Committee member. Plus they wish to have an open discussion about possible upcoming events, as members will be invited to help SCF with any future initiatives, on behalf of the membership.

The membership does include the intention of getting together a minimum of once a year to have some fun, while being updated on how their funds have been managed and distributed in their community.  Members are encouraged to bring a friend to these events to let them know about the SCF.

INSPIRATIONAL TALKS

The Goderich Lions are thrilled to announce their upcoming series of wellness talks featuring Brian O’Reilly of Human Potential Plus. With over 40 years of experience as a high-performance life coach, O’Reilly is set to deliver a series of four insightful and inspiring talks entitled, “Creating a Caring Community”.

The talks will be held every Monday evening in April and will be hosted at the Mackay Center in Goderich. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. to allow attendees to get settled before the talks begin.

As a community organization committed to promoting wellness, the Goderich Lions are proud to offer this event free of charge to anyone interested in attending. While donations are welcome, the primary goal is to provide access to invaluable information and insights from a seasoned expert.

“We’re excited to bring Brian O’Reilly to our community,” said John Maaskant, the vice-president of the Goderich Lions. “His wealth of knowledge and experience as a high-performance life coach is exactly what many of us need during these challenging times. We’re proud to be able to offer this series of talks to everyone who wants to learn and grow.”

The Goderich Lions encourage anyone interested in attending to mark their calendars and plan to attend all four talks. With each session building upon the last, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it means to live a well-rounded and fulfilling life.

The session topics and dates are as follows: Apr. 10, “Understanding Conditioned Unhappiness”; Apr. 17, “Reading your Own Book – The Within and Without”; Apr. 24, “The Deep Conditioning of Fear, Depression and Anger”.

For more information on the series of wellness talks, please visit the Goderich Lions’ Facebook Page.

MAITLAND CONSERVATION STEWARDSHIP

Maitland Conservation (MC) and Green Goderich have come together, with support from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Bruce Power, to share information on stewardship topics in the Lake Huron Nearshore Assessment on Apr. 15 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Goderich.

This “Land to Lake Huron: Ecosystem Improvements Workshop” will be held from 10 a.m. to noon.

The program will include guests Paul Parete from ECCC who will explain the Nearshore Assessment and overall results; and Shannon Millar from MC who will discuss local stewardship stressors in the assessment, how MC has been trying to reduce these impacts, and how landowners can take action.

This will be followed by breakout discussions for attendees to provide feedback and voice their local concerns. Topics of discussion will include stewardship initiatives that improve water quality and aquatic habitat, such as: stream buffering, removing fish barriers, cover crops, and increasing natural cover.

To reserve a workshop spot visit: Spring Workshop Tickets. 

For more information contact Shannon Millar, Maitland Conservation Restoration lead, by calling 519 335-3557 Ext. 233 or via email at smillar@mvca.on.ca.

The Knights Of Columbus Community Hall is located at 390 Parsons Court in Goderich.

CONSERVATION DINNER RAFFLE

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) is selling 50-50 tickets, leading up to the Conservation Dinner, in support of local community projects.

There are 1,000 tickets printed and the cash prize could be as high as $5,000 if all tickets are sold. Tickets are $10 each. The draw is to be held during the 33rd Conservation Dinner, on Thursday, Apr. 20, at 9 p.m. at South Huron Recreation Centre in Exeter.

To buy tickets for the 50-50 raffle, people may phone 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610 or email info@abca.ca or visit the Ausable Bayfield Conservation office east of Exeter at 71108 Morrison Line (just south of Highway 83).

Alternatively, people can contact members of the Conservation Foundation or Dinner Committee to purchase tickets. Net proceeds from the draw are to be donated to local community projects, including the South Huron Trail.

Dave Frayne is chair of Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation and the Conservation Dinner Committee.

“Buying tickets for the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation 33rd Conservation Dinner 50-50 raffle is a convenient way for people to support needed local community projects,” he said.

To learn more visit the ABCA Foundation .

GODERICH LIONS

Goderich Lions Club members understand that people are missing the social aspect of in-person Bingos and their volunteers have been exploring ways to bring this style of fundraiser back to the community and surrounding area.

Earlier this  month,  The Park House in Goderich and the Huron Fish and Game Club in Clinton became the settings for Goderich Lions Club Bingo on Monday and Wednesday evenings starting at 7 p.m. Please note that Bingo tickets will not be available at these new sites.  People can get their tickets at the locations listed below. For more information visit Goderich Lions on Facebook.

For those who prefer to play from the comfort of their own home Goderich Lions TV Bingo will continue also on Monday and Wednesday evenings starting at 7 p.m. They are broadcast on Eastlink Channel 10, Hurontel Channel 1 and Tuckersmith Channel 1.

Tickets for the televised games are available at Bayfield Convenience and Gifts; Clinton Foodland and Clinton Convenience; Buckey Joes, Vanastra; Hodgins Home Hardware, Lucknow; Goderich Convenience; Suncoast Variety, Goderich; and Finchers in Goderich and Kincardine. Lottery License #: M717413.

IN-HOME RECREATION PROGRAM

The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth (ASHP) is currently looking for dedicated volunteers to help with their In-Home Recreation Program.

The In-Home Recreation Program allows short-term respite for the care partner, while providing companionship for the person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.

Fully trained volunteers provide 1:1 weekly visits with the person living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementia with visits ranging from one to hours. Volunteers will facilitate activities and provide social and cognitive stimulation for the person living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.

For more information regarding volunteering please contact Paulina Balch via email at paulinab@alzhp.ca or by calling 519 271-1910.

BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES

Looking for what is happening now in the village? Look no further than the Bayfield Activities Calendar . People are invited to refer to this website to learn what activities, from Pickleball to Mahjong, are happening and when.

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.

An old tradition is to wear new clothes at Easter, and the Easter bonnet became a part of this tradition in the 19th Century when women, who all wore a style of hat known as a bonnet, would get a fancy new one, or freshen up their old ones with flowers, lace and ribbon, all in time for the Easter parade. This week, we look at just three of the many hats in the Museum’s collection…

Straw Hat

STRAW HAT

This is a women’s beige straw hat with an orange band and a beautiful arrangement of beige silk flowers arranged on the front.

Pillbox Hat

PILLBOX HAT

This is a light beige hat with a bow with a cream-colored silk trim.

Beaded Hat

BEADED HAT

This pink beaded hat is highlighted by a veil. It was worn by Geraldine (McEwan) Vanstone at her sister Pauline (McEwan) Lowery’s wedding in 1943.

SCHILBE SUGAR BUSH TOUR

RECORD BREAKING CROWD ENJOYS PANCAKE ‘N SAUSAGE BRUNCH

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

Well over 500 people, the most ever, took part in the 11th Pancake ‘N Sausage Brunch and Schilbe Sugar Bush Tour on the morning of Apr. 1st at Pine Lake Campground. And no foolin’ that is an awful lot of pancakes flipped by stalwart volunteers!

The rain clouds departed for the morning allowing many people to enjoy a tractor drawn wagon ride through the nearby Schilbe Sugar Bush and to visit the shanty where Rick and Rusty Schilbe shared how their Maple Syrup harvest is conducted.

People can’t learn about Maple Syrup production and not get to taste this sweet treat and brunch was the perfect excuse! Warm syrup was generously ladled on to hot fluffy pancakes and sausages for all to indulge in and the grown-ups also got to try Maple Coffee if they wished.

“All of the volunteers at the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) and the members of Trinity St. James Church would like to hugely thank Rick and Rusty for putting together the wagon rides and tours of their sugar shanty, and for the wonderful syrup that was so enjoyed by the brunch goers,” said Terry Henderson, chair of the organizing committee. “It was heartwarming for me, to look out the Pine Lake kitchen window to see the wagons pulling in, and so many people enjoying that lovely sunshine and children playing as they waited. It was really awesome to be able to hold this event again.”

The organizing committee, composed of volunteers with the BAFB and Trinity St. James Church, would like to extend their gratitude to those in the surrounding community that supported the cause. These include: Goderich Print Shop; Food Basics, Goderich; Metzger Fine Quality Meats, Hensall; Crunican Orchards, London; Ontario Pork Producers and Huron County Beef Producers. Organizers are also indebted to the residents of Pine Lake Campground for allowing the use of their recreation hall for the brunch as well as their laneway allowing for the wagon runs and extra traffic.

“It was so nice to see people lingering after breakfast to chat with friends and neighbors and for the BAFB community to be able to get to know each other better. It was definitely a feel-good event,” concluded Claire Trepanier, president of the BAFB.

52789254333_6a564532a4_k

Shortly after the doors to the Recreation Hall at Pine Lake Campground were opened hungry brunch goers began filling the seats.

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

PIXILATED

 IMAGE OF THE WEEK

IMG_5097

Sunset at Pioneer Park… By Jack Pal

Submit Your photo

Email your photo in Jpeg format to hello@bayfield-breeze.com with the subject line Subscriber Photo of the Week. or…Upload your photo to Flickr.

I am looking for the Bayfield that is a delight to the eye – please share photos with a touch of whimsy, beauty, humor or a sense of fun. If you are to include people in your photos be sure to have their permission to publish their picture on-line and also send in their names and where they are from. And don’t forget to tell me who took the photo for proper credit to be issued.

SUBMISSIONS

Image of Melody Falconer-Pounder

51854912498_7d52e952ba_k

Melody Falconer-Pounder

Apr. 1st was Cookie Day for Bayfield Guiding! And it was serious business…we had sellers out in two locations selling the classics also known as chocolate and vanilla sandwich cookies and we had record breaking sales!

We wondered how many boxes of cookies we would sell and now we know – 336! Just 1,224 more to go.

With the new price increase on cookies our Sparks, Embers, Guides and Rangers are learning the six-times-table and how to make change with toonies and loonies. Both valuable life skills, as is remembering to say thank you!

So, thank you to everyone who supported our members at either the Goderich Community Mego Garage Sale held at the Memorial Arena or the Pancake ‘N Sausage Brunch and Schilbe Sugar Bush Tour held at Pine Lake Camp.

Anyone who would like to purchase a box or two are welcome to email me at melody.pounder@gmail.com or reach out to a member of Bayfield Guiding. We’re extra keen to sell this year as the profits from sales will go directly to help cover the cost of bussing for an overnight adventure to the Toronto Zoo’s Serengeti Bush Camp. – Melody

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