TERRY FOX RUN HIKE DRAWS 50 PLUS

PHOTOS BY JACK PAL

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association organized a guided group hike as part of Bayfield’s Terry Fox Run held on Sept. 15. (Photo by Jack Pal)

The Bayfield Terry Fox Run, organized by volunteers of the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) was held on a very warm and sunny morning, Sunday, Sept. 15. Approximately 50 people participated in the group hike, while some others chose to hike on their own.

Over $7,000 was raised by the Bayfield community, with the majority of donations being made online. Participants were asked to meet at the Gazebo in Clan Gregor Square and organizers noted that many people enjoyed taking a selfie with the large Terry Fox poster, including 10 year-old Ava McCann. Doing so has become a tradition for Ava who always raises a spectacular sum for the cause – this year her total was $3,691.

The Bayfield Terry Fox Run was organized by volunteers Ralph Blasting, Bronwyn Bechard and Helen Varekamp. They would like to extend a big thank-you to all donors and walkers for supporting the 44th Terry Fox Run. The village event was started in 2009. Funds raised will continue to support cancer research.

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LION HAS A NAME AND IT’S A DANDY ONE

The Bayfield Lions Club introduced their newest member at the Bayfield Community Fair Parade on Aug. 17. And after holding a contest he officially has a name! (Photo by John Pounder)

Cyprus Ryan-Strong (seated) was the winner of the Name the Lion Contest organized by the Bayfield Lions Club members. He is shown here with his sisters Maitland (left) and Mikaela (right). The family will no doubt enjoy sharing the pizza party prize. (Photo by Rolly Scott)

The Bayfield Lions Club’s newest member now has a name and it’s “Dandy Lion”!

“The Lions received a good variety of names from which to pick for our lion.  Some were quite inventive, and they all made it such a fun job for us to complete,” said Karen Scott, vice-president of the club.

The Club introduced their newest member at the Bayfield Community Fair Parade on Aug. 17 and after that sought the help of local children to give him a name through a contest which concluded on Sept. 12.

“It was a family effort but it was Cyprus Ryan-Strong’s entry of Dandy Lion that won. I am sure he is grateful to his sisters Mikaela and Maitland for their help and that they had a lot of fun with their joint efforts,” said Scott.

Cyprus, will know doubt be happy to share his $100 gift card from Renegades Diner for a pizza and pop with his family.

According to Scott after the vote count, it turned out to be a close race. Honorary mention goes to Maggie Crawford for her suggestion of “Lionel the Lion” and to Graham Parker for his entry of  “Lester”, as their entries tied for second place. Freddie Middleton should also be recognized for his submission of  “Bayley the Beach Lion”.

Dandy Lion can now be registered on the Lions’ International Membership List.

COLLABORATIVE GARDEN TRANSFORMATION CELEBRATED

Just one of the colorful blooms that can be found in the pollinator garden behind the Bayfield Branch Library. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)

On Saturday, Sept. 14, a gathering at the Bayfield Branch Library celebrated the transition of the “Reading Garden” to a garden of native pollinating plants.

Nancy McHardy, of Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL), opened the proceedings by describing how the renovation was a collaboration between the Bayfield Garden Club and FOBL.

Janet Kurasz, from Lakewood Garden Centre, south of Bayfield, worked with ideas presented by Kim Hohol, Nancy McHardy, Margot Sippel, Claudia Barrett and Nancy Kale to create the garden design and the choice of plants.  Chosen plants include lupines, coreopsis, Joe Pyeweed and dogwood.  These native plants were sourced by Tina Bax from Lakewood Garden Centre.   Early in the spring, Doug Vanderhaar cleared out the old bushes and helped to prepare the soil for new plants.   And not long after, volunteers from both groups planted the seedlings according to the new design.  These volunteers also took it upon themselves to carry out a vigorous watering regime and the plants have flourished ever since.

Lori Hill, from the Bayfield Garden Club, and Nicole de Freitas, from the Bayfield Library, also spoke about the vision for the garden and thanked the volunteers who worked so hard to put it all together.

Refreshments were served and everyone had a chance to admire the transformed garden.

FILM EXPLORES HIDDEN CRISIS

Members of the community are invited to join Blue Bayfield at the showing of “Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics” (Plastic People) on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at the Bayfield Town Hall.

Plastic People is a new 90-minute film that has been shown at film festivals in Europe and North America and is being recorded in multiple languages. In the spring, it was the feature film shown to delegates at the United Nations (UN) conference on plastics held in Ottawa.

Blue Bayfield and Eco-Exeter, the student environmental group at South Huron District High School, have for many years promoted the reduction of single use plastics. Bayfield is recognized nationally and internationally for its achievements. Eco-Exeter likewise has received accolades for its work on plastic reduction. Both communities are featured in the film!

The film will be shown at 7 p.m. with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m.

Blue Bayfield volunteers offer up the following facts for people to ponder:

• Recycling was promoted by the plastic industry to justify the continued production of plastic, but less than 5 per cent of plastic is recycled world-wide.
• In the United Kingdom, 38 million plastic drink bottles are bought every day.
• Every minute 112,000 pieces of plastic packaging leave supermarkets.
• Plastic is found in the placenta, the organ that supplies food supply for the unborn.

Tickets are $10 and may be purchased at The Village Bookshop or by contacting Ray Letheren at letherenray@gmail.com or Renee Sandelowsky at sandelowskyr@gmail.com. Any profits from the evening. will be donated to the Bayfield Area Food Bank.

“KITTEN PALOOZA” RETURNS AT END OF MONTH

Boo (Submitted photo)

Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) continues to be inundated with kittens as summer turns to autumn.

Boo is the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week.

This little black kitten was found all by himself in an area where some other cats have been trapped and brought into the Rescue.

“Although we haven’t done any DNA testing, we do believe that he is a sibling to Eryn, a young kitten that came in several weeks ago and Zara the cat with the broken leg might well be their Mama,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.

“This poor little guy was probably on his own for weeks scrounging to survive. He wasn’t noticed until about two weeks ago when people started putting food out for him. At first he was very timid in approaching but once again, hunger won out, and he was quickly trapped.”

According to Penhale, he was very scared when he first arrived at BFF.

“Food has played a big part in his acceptance of people. Once he realized he was safe and warm and getting regular meals he was very open to pets,” she said.

He has had his first round of shots, flea medicine and has been dewormed and in  a few days volunteers are hoping to reunite him with his brother so he can socialize with other kittens his age.

Penhale went on to say that BFF is still in the seemingly never ending cycle of kittens being born.

“Our phone just never stops ringing and it hurts us to have to say, ‘No’, but we just cannot physically or financially take more cats at this time. As previously stated with the cats that we currently have staying with fosters in the area and at the shelter we need to raise $18,000 just for spay and neuter. That does not include medicine for unexpected illnesses, feeding, litter and housing,” said Penhale.

BFF will be hosting another “Kitten Palooza” at the end of the month and the volunteers encourage anyone who has been thinking about adopting to come see their plethora of adorable cats and kittens.

“It would be so nice if people opened their hearts and homes to these felines. When cats are adopted we have more funds in order to help the ones we currently have and it also opens both foster and shelter spots for more cats who need to come in,” said Penhale.

Kitten Palooza will be held on Sunday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 16 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.

Reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about Boo and others. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Can’t adopt or foster at this time?  Consider donating for medical care and food to the email address listed above via E-transfer or mail financial donations to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.

HEALTH IN HURON EVENT KICKS OFF LECTURE SEASON

Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health President Gwen Devereaux presented Casandra Bryant’s presentation entitled, “The Cost of Caring” at an event held at the Huron County Museum on Sept. 10. Bryant is a Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health Research Chair and PhD Candidate. (Submitted photo)

On Sept. 10, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) proudly launched the fifth season of the Rural Health Lecture Series with a special event titled, “Health in Huron” at the Huron County Museum in Goderich.

The event explored community care in Huron County, featuring enlightening presentations, memorable music, and engaging discussions on rural health. The program included contributions from guest speakers including: rural Geriatrician, Dr. Alex Peel; Gateway Research Chair and PhD Candidate, Casandra Bryant, presented by Gateway President, Gwen Devereaux; local Historian, David Yates; and vocalists, Deb Shelley and the “Solace Choir” from Huron Hospice. These presenters highlighted rural health issues, the impact of the pandemic on rural healthcare workers, the history of healthcare in Huron County, and the positive effect of music in care. The special launch of “Season 5” drew a full room of attendees, whose enthusiastic participation demonstrated a strong community interest in rural health.

Gateway Research Chair, Dr. Mike Beazley moderated the event and attendees included residents, community leaders and service club representatives, all eager to learn more about health resources and the evolution of the healthcare system.

Season 5 will continue virtually on ZOOM with registration being available at www.gatewayruralhealth.ca. Lectures will take place on the first Tuesday of each month for one hour starting at noon. The next session is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 1,  and will feature a presentation on Rural Transport Medicine by Sean Moore, Northern Medical director at Ornge Transport.

“Health in Huron” was generously sponsored by Hurontel, Hay Communications, Libro Credit Union, MacEwan & Feagan Insurance Brokers, Pharmasave: Clinton, Goderich Legion Branch 109, and Lighthouse Money Management.

DRONE PLANTING PART OF DEMONSTRATION DAY

Those who attend the Cover Crop Planting Demonstration Day at Huronview Demo Farm will also see a demonstration of planting by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) drone. (Photo by Hope Brock)

Huron Soil and Crop is hosting a Cover Crop Planting Demonstration Day at Huronview Demo Farm, south of Clinton, on Friday, Sept. 20. The event will include a demo of cover crops planted by modified sprayer and drone.

The event will begin at 1 p.m. Those who wish to attend may register for the event by visiting: Demonstration Day.

Huronview Demonstration Farm is located behind the Huron Perth Public Health office at the Huronview complex. The demonstration farm is owned by the County of Huron and managed by local farmers from Huron County Soil and Crop Improvement Association (HSCIA).

Alan Willits is an event organizer and a member of HSCIA. He said the Cover Crop Planting Demonstration Day is a great opportunity for people to learn about the benefits of cover crops and about new technology and different planting approaches.

“We are learning all the time and trying out different rotations of cover crops such as planting rye after corn and planting oats after beans,” Willits said. “We encourage farmers to join us at the demo day to learn about some of the latest technology and current research taking place to evaluate different cropping techniques.”

Those attending the event will have a chance to see land application, of a cover crop, with a modified Fendt® Rogator® sprayer. They will also see a demonstration of planting by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) drone.

Cover crops have benefits to the landowner and the broader community. Cover crops build soil health, protect water quality, and help to reduce loss of nutrients and topsoil. Cover crops reduce the amount and speed of water running off of land. They help to reduce wind speed at ground level which reduces wind and water erosion.

To learn more visit the Huronview Demo Farm website Huron Demo Farm or email HSCIA at huronsoilandcrop@gmail.com.

The cover crop planting demo is possible thanks to financial support of a Grassroots Research Grant from Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA).

Huronview Demonstration Farm is located at 77722 London Road, Clinton, ON.

CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS IMPACT OF RISING HOUSING COSTS

Building on information gathered from the Cost of Housing survey from earlier this year, United Way Perth-Huron’s Social Research & Planning Council (SRPC) is launching “Speak Up for Housing”, a campaign highlighting the impact of rising housing costs on individuals and families across the region.

“The insights we heard from participants in the survey show the dramatic, wide-ranging way housing costs have affected our region,” said Kristin Crane, director Community Impact and Research. “They’ve had to sell their homes, take second jobs, and sacrifice their dreams and well-being just to have a place to stay.”

“The cost of housing hurts people from all walks of life, from individuals with disabilities to seniors to working people,” said United Way Perth-Huron Executive Director, Ryan Erb. “This campaign allows us to share stories and help inspire action.”

To help build awareness, United Way is launching a new web page, Speak Up for Housing, focusing on local efforts to make housing more affordable, including United Way’s new United Housing initiative. This page also includes information on what different levels of government do about housing and how to contact local representatives.

Additionally, insights from survey participants will feature prominently on posters in locations across the region, as well as social media posts in September and October. Digital versions of the posters are available on the Speak Up for Housing web page to share on social media or print and post in workplaces.

“Local housing initiatives need support, and we hope this campaign motivates people to let their leaders know they stand behind these projects,” added Crane. “That kind of vocal support can make a tremendous difference on individual lives and the life of the community.”

TAYLOR SWIFT CONCERT TICKET RAFFLE IN SUPPORT OF UNITED HOUSING

Thanks to the generosity of Dr. Erin and Mike Heisz, United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is excited to announce a charity raffle offering two tickets to see Taylor Swift live in concert in Toronto on Nov. 23. The raffle supports UWPH’s United Housing (UH) initiative, the region’s first non-profit housing organization dedicated to developing and operating mixed rental units.

“We are so appreciative of Erin and Mike for providing these two tickets,” said UH Director, Kathy Vassilakos. “We are thrilled to offer local Taylor Swift fans the chance to experience the Eras Tour while supporting a cause that directly impacts our community. Every ticket purchased helps us continue to build on our mission to provide affordable housing solutions for those in need.”

“United Housing is a cause that our family passionately supports, recognizing the immense value it brings to our community. We have experienced in our own families and workplaces the difficulties obtaining safe and affordable housing in Perth Huron and also Grey Bruce, where we both are originally from. We are so happy that 100 per cent of the proceeds will help advance this local initiative,” said Dr. Erin Heisz. “By making the raffle tickets affordable, we hope to give every Taylor Swift fan the chance to experience an unforgettable concert while also contributing to a truly meaningful cause!”

The two seated floor tickets are in section C3, row 10, and are part of the “Karma is My Boyfriend” VIP package including four Taylor Swift prints, a commemorative Taylor Swift/Eras Tour VIP tote bag, pin, sticker and postcard set, souvenir concert ticket, and special VIP tour laminate and matching lanyard.

United Way and United Housing would like to extend thanks to all the businesses selling raffle tickets across Perth Huron: Blowes Stationery, Juno, Junction 56 and the United Centre, all in Stratford; BK Brand Name Clothing and Gifts and Bakelaar Jewellers, both in Listowel; Wuerth’s Shoes and All Around the House, both in Goderich; Wuerth’s Shoes in Exeter; Sun Rayz in St. Marys; Annette’s Treasures and I Want That Bag Consignment, both in Wingham; Blooms N’ Rooms in Seaforth; and Penny’s and the Pine Café and Bistro in Blyth. Tickets are $10 each. The draw will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at Junction 56 Distillery in Stratford, 45 Cambria Street, starting at 6:30 p.m. The winner will be notified. Individuals must be 18 years of age or older to purchase tickets.

Across Perth Huron, there are people experiencing homelessness, people escaping violent home situations who can’t afford an apartment, workers who can’t afford to live in the same community as their jobs are located and seniors having to leave their homes who don’t have enough to afford anything in the rental market. UH aims to help address the crisis and work toward a vision of everyone living in housing suitable and affordable to their needs by 2050. To learn more about UH’s work, and to sign up for the newsletter, visit United Housing.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME EVOLVES INTO FARM TO FORK FUNDRAISER

On Saturday, Sept. 21, the team at Huron Hospice will serve dinner at the Holmesville Community Centre as their “No Place Like Home” event is now a Farm to Fork fundraising dinner and auction.

First held in 2020, No Place Like Home was an original solution to fundraising during a pandemic.

“We thought it would be one night only! However, the event was so successful we just had to do it again and again and again,” said Huron Hospice Executive Director, Willy Van Klooster. “This year, we are celebrating a completely different aspect of Huron County: its food producers. And yes, we are in-person at the Holmesville Community Centre.”

Celebrating the theme of home invites conversations, memories and stories about hospice and also the best of Huron County where many call home. By profiling home, the No Place Like Home event has become the signature Huron Hospice fundraiser. It supports end-of-life care as close to home, and as much like home, as possible.

The dinner provided by Part II Bistro of Goderich will evoke visions of a 100-mile diet. If the ingredient is not available in Huron County, it will come from Ontario or Canada.

According to Christopher Walker, Huron Hospice manager of Fund Development, “We will have to travel further than 100 miles for the salmon. The dinner will feature local wine and beer tastings and a unique raffle. There will be an auction with some fun locally themed items.”

The organizers announced that Alecia Anderson, Huron County coordinator of Tourism and Local Food, will act as co-emcee and be joined by MP Ben Lobb, as co-emcee and celebrity auctioneer.

“We are pleased to have Alecia and Ben join us again. Each of them knows Huron County and the food scene better than most. The fact that Alecia and Ben are making time for Huron Hospice shows how important the Hospice is for everyone across the county,” said Walker.  He also thanked Gil Garratt, artistic director at the Blyth Festival, who supported the telethon for the past four years and was instrumental to the event’s success.

Tickets for the Dinner are $150 each or $1,200 for a table of eight. Again, this year, complimentary dinner shuttles are available. However, guests must reserve their shuttle seats by calling Walker. Murphy Bus Lines has generously donated the use of three buses for the evening.

Funds raised each year help pay for the care at Huron Hospice. Last year, Hospice nurses and volunteers provided care for 72 people at Bender House. Home hospice and respite volunteers made 687 visits to 104 families, and 103 people attended 591 grief group sessions.

Huron Hospice services are free, and public support ensures they remain free to all who need them. Individuals or their family members who are in need of Huron Hospice care, please call 519 606-6600.