The Bayfield BreezeIssue 807 Week 53 Vol 16
December 25, 2024
3089 views
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT HAS DREAMS OF BECOMING A LAWYER
STORY BY SAMANTHA LAWSON
Hannah Gilbert (Submitted photo)
Bayfield resident Hannah Gilbert has been focused on her academic goals from a young age.
She started taking some extra classes in Grade 8 to get ahead in her education, dreaming of becoming a lawyer. And now, as the recipient of a $40,000 scholarship from Laurier University, those dreams are coming true for 18-year-old Gilbert.
The Laurier Scholars Award is an annual entrance scholarship awarded to high-achieving students interested in going to Wilfrid Laurier University. Applicants must have an admission average of 90 per cent or higher and have demonstrated leadership in extracurricular activities to be eligible.
Gilbert received word in early June 2024 that, out of 450 scholarship applicants from across Canada, the Faculty of Liberal Arts had chosen her as one of the undergrads awarded.
Gilbert said she was very excited to learn that she was a recipient.
“It’s a really big award and it’s an honor to get that scholarship, so I felt proud that my hard work throughout high school paid off,” Gilbert said. “I can continue my education and reach my goal of becoming a lawyer without having to worry or stress over my financial situation.”
Gilbert said Laurier was her first choice of school after learning of a combined six-year program where she could achieve both her Human Rights and Law degree.
Gilbert is currently in her first year of a two-year stint at Laurier’s Brantford campus. She will then head to England for the next three years to study law at the University of Sussex, before returning to Canada for her last year.
Gilbert said she was nervous at first to move to Brantford, ON because it is much different than Bayfield, but found it to be a welcoming community.
“There’s lots of people at Laurier who are willing to help you and they run tons and tons of events for first years. There’s a whole week where they get you acquainted and there’s clubs and lots of support, so I found that once I got there it wasn’t so bad,” Gilbert said.
Gilbert is a graduate of St. Anne’s Catholic Secondary School in Clinton.
She was a member of the concert band for all four years of high school and acted as the percussion section leader in her senior year.
Gilbert was also a part of the swim team for a couple years, and outside of school, she said she likes to wakeboard at Bluestone Wake Park outside Clinton, where she runs a kid’s camp during the summer.
In December 2023, Gilbert had the idea to start a program called “Kids on Boards” to help children attend summer camp who usually would not be able to.
“I went around to local service groups and advocated for some children who live in low income families,” Gilbert said.
Gilbert said her effort in the end resulted in four kids being sponsored to attend summer camp at Bluestone Wake Park.
Gilbert wrote about this experience in her application for the Laurier Scholars Award as a demonstration of her leadership in extracurricular activities.
Growing up in Bayfield, Gilbert said the small community feel was something she enjoyed.
“It’s nice to live right by the beach and always feel safe walking out and about, knowing all your neighbors, going downtown, knowing everybody,” Gilbert said.
And it is likely fair to say that, all in Bayfield who know Gilbert are applauding her most recent academic achievement and looking forward to seeing her make her dreams come true!
HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM BAYFIELD AREA FOOD BANK
Santa has confirmed it – supporters of the Bayfield Area Food Bank are all on the “Nice” list! (Submitted photo)
Editor’s Note: This week we share a special message from the volunteers with the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) offered with heartfelt appreciation.
“Happy Holidays from the Bayfield Area Food Bank!
As we embrace the joy and warmth of this special season, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has joined us in addressing food insecurity in Bayfield and the surrounding areas.
Santa has confirmed it – you’re all on the “Nice” list!
Our community is truly extraordinary. You are passionate fundraisers, generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and tireless helpers. Each of you plays a vital role in ensuring our clients have nourishing meals and full pantries, especially during the holidays.
It takes a village to make a difference, and we’re so fortunate to be part of one that is as compassionate and caring as Bayfield and surrounds. Your unwavering kindness and support have a profound impact, and we couldn’t do this work without you.
From all of us at the BAFB, we wish you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and the true spirit of giving.
Thank you for being the heart of our mission. Together, we’re building a stronger, more supportive community.”
RIO NOT A FAN OF SHARING THE LIMELIGHT
Rio (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) have many cats and kittens looking for their forever homes such as the Adopt a BFF cat of the week – Rio.
According to volunteers, this young lady lets her presence be known.
“In her defence she was in heat when she arrived at the shelter,” explained Deb Penhale, representing BFF.
Penhale went on to explain that Rio surrendered herself and likes lots of food and attention!
“She will chat you up and follow you everywhere,” said Penhale. “This girl wants love and lots of it. She doesn’t seem to be enamored of all the other kitties at the shelter as she has to share the limelight and attention.”
Pemhale added that Rio has settled down a fair bit since her initial arrival.
“She would be super excited to find her people and not have to share the love and treats!”
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about Rio 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.
Want to see and learn more about the felines at the shelter? This can be done easily by visiting their website! Included on this website is lots of helpful information on how people can help feral kittens. The site, www.bayfieldsforgottenfelines.ca, features a searchable index of all the cats and kittens available for adoption. This includes pictures and descriptions of their personalities. Plus there is a new option for making donations by credit card. The website also includes online forms that automate the adoption and volunteer application processes as well as testimonials from previous adopters who found their purrfect matches at BFF.
CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT
Watching birds can be a fun and rewarding activity, especially when people can contribute to citizen science! This year the local Christmas Bird Count will be held on Dec. 30th.
Each year, thousands of Christmas Bird Counts across North America inform scientists about the status of bird populations. Birds Canada invites anyone who lives in the count circle, which includes the towns of Bayfield and Clinton to help track bird populations by observing the species that visit their feeders. It is a simple way to engage with nature and support conservation efforts.
Anyone who is interested in participating or has any questions, is invited to please contact the local Christmas Bird Count Coordinator Dana Latour via email at latourdana@gmail.com.
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
The Board of Directors of the Bayfield Agricultural Society is looking for someone to fill the position of a Volunteer Coordinator.
Previous experience is helpful but not necessary. A working knowledge of Word and Excel would be an asset.
The duties of this position include: serving as the point of contact for all potential and returning fair volunteers; working with the fair committee chairs to identify their volunteer needs; maintaining a current active list of volunteers; ensuring that volunteers have the information they need about the roles they take on; and following up with volunteers to learn about their fair experience. Meeting attendance would be as needed.
The ideal candidate for this volunteer role is someone who is personable, organized, and a creative problem solver.
For more information, please contact info@bayfieldfair.ca
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
The congregation of Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. Their next Sunday service will be held on Dec. 29 at 11 a.m. and all are welcome.
Members of the congregation are currently gathering items for re-use and upcycling. Upcycling takes something no longer in use and gives it a second life with new functions, for example, the outer milk bag can be upcycled into sleeping mats. These mats are distributed to people in need throughout the world. Knox Bayfield gathers clean outer milk bags that have been previously washed and dried, used stamps, empty egg cartons and eyeglasses. Items can be dropped off at the church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday and Monday (excluding holidays). People’s generous contributions are warmly accepted and will change lives.
Knox Presbyterian Church Bayfield is located at 2 Bayfield Main Street North. To learn more visit knoxbayfield.ca or follow them on YouTube – Knox, Bayfield.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The Ministry of Education recently approved the license for the Bayfield Before and After School Program (BASP) operated from the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena. The program is now ready to accommodate families during the new school year!
Parents who register their children in the program can expect nutritious snacks, bussing, registered staff and quality programming that is community driven with low ratios.
BASP will run from September to June, Monday to Friday from 7-8:30 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m. The cost of the program is $14 for one session per day and $28 for both before and after school sessions per day.
In addition to being licensed under the Ministry of Education, the program will be monitored by Huron Perth Public Health.
Registered Early Childhood Educators and their classroom assistants will provide a challenging and supportive environment where those children in their care can feel appreciated, respected, heard and valued.
For more information please email Bayfieldbasp@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
COFFEE & CHAT
The Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) extend a warm welcome to all who would like to join in the “Coffee & Chat” group that is held at the Bayfield Branch Library. 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 “Coffee & Chat” group meets in the Bayfield Library Meeting Room every Tuesday, 2-3:30 p.m., from now until the end of June 2025.
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!
MAH JONGG
Mah Jongg is played at the Bayfield Branch Library on the first and third Wednesdays of the month.
Participants are asked to arrive at 1:30 p.m. and games will be played until 4 p.m.
All are welcome to take part in this Rummy type game that is played with tiles instead of cards. Instructions are always available.
For more information please email Pat Lewington at plewington6@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
Attention Bridge playing enthusiasts the cost to attend an afternoon at the Bayfield Bridge Club has been reduced by half – the cost to join the fun is now $4.
That is quite a bargain that includes coffee, tea and a yummy snack plus a prize for both the winner and the loser.
Players do not need to attend with a partner to participate in these “drop-in” sessions. New people are invited to join in this great opportunity to make new friends as partners are switched after every four hands. There are weekly reviews on bidding responses at the beginning of each session for example, responses to a No Trump open etc.
The games are played on Wednesday afternoons at the Bayfield Lions’ Community Building located at 6 Municipal Road. The cards are shuffled at 1 p.m. All levels of players are welcome to take part in these games that are played year-round.
SUNSET COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES GRANT RECIPIENTS
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
The Grand Women Fund contributed to the $7,000 that was granted to Huron Shores United Church for their Grand Bend Community Food Pantry.
The Sunset Community Foundation’s (SCF) Greater Grand Bend Area (GGBA) Community Fund hosted its 2024 Grant Awards Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 27, at the Grand Bend Legion. This special evening brought together over 80 community members, including funders, service organizations, volunteers, local officials, and residents, to celebrate the impact of philanthropy in the region.
The GGBA Community Fund awarded an impressive total of $112,878 in grants to 23 local service organizations. These grants will support vital programs and initiatives that address community needs, foster collaboration, and improve the quality of life in the Greater Grand Bend area.
Greater Grand Bend Area Advisory Chair for the Sunset Community Foundation Peter Janzen was the emcee for the 2024 Grant Awards Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 27, held at the Grand Bend Legion.
The evening opened with GGBA Advisory Chair, and event emcee, Peter Janzen giving thanks to the Royal Canadian Legion Grand Bend Branch #498 for sponsoring the event and for their ongoing community leadership.
GGBA Advocate to the SCF Board, Jim Jean explained how the GGBA Advisory Committee thoughtfully reviewed 30 grant submissions, awarding funds to impactful programs ranging from seniors’ wellness and youth initiatives to environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.
The Grand Women Fund contributed to the $7,000 that was granted to Huron Shores United Church for their Grand Bend Community Food Pantry while the Grand Men Fund contributed to the $5,800 that was granted to the Grand Bend Area Community Health Centre for their Food Pantry Program.
The following are organizations that benefited from the grants and the amounts they received:
- $1,623 to Ageless Vitality Fitness partnered with Huron Shores United Church for the Ageless Vitality Fitness Seniors Wellness program
- $7,000 to Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority partnered with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation for their Youth Tree Planting
- $2,000 to Ausable Port Franks Optimist Club partnered with the Municipality of Lambton Shores for their Technology Improvements to Better Serve the Community and Youth Program
- $10,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron for their Big Bunch program
- $5,000 to Forest Cliff Camps for their Conversation Areas Project
- $5,000 to Forest Fritter Friends partnered with the Municipality of Lambton Shores for Program Coordinator Project
- $4,500 to Grand Bend & Area Studio Tour partnered with the Municipality of Lambton Shores for the River Road Arts Fair
- $2,955 to Grand Bend Place at Huron Shores United Church for their Grand Bend Community Communications Hub (Bulletin Board)
- $10,000 to Huron Country Playhouse for their new Huron Country Playhouse Artists’ Residence
- $6,000 to Huron Waves Music Festival for This Season of Magic with Susan Aglukark concert
- $5,000 to Lake Huron Coastal Centre for Clean-up the Coast of Lake Huron
- $4,400 to Lakeshore Eco-Network partnered with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation for Tree Planting at the Klondyke Pickleball Courts
- $2,500 to Literacy Lambton for their Train Your Brain Program at the Greater Grand Bend sites
- $7,100 to Nature Conservancy of Canada for Improvements to the Ipperwash Dunes and Swales Trail
- $4,000 to RCL Branch 498 Grand Bend Legion partnered with the Municipality of Lambton Shores for upgrading their Window Blinds and Stage Curtains
- $10,000 to the United Way of Perth-Huron to expand the Rotating Youth Wellness Hub to Grand Bend
- $5,000 to United Way of Perth-Huron for the Community Volunteer Income Tax Clinics to Reduce Poverty Program
- $1,000 to West Coast Lions Club of Grand Bend partnered with the Municipality of Lambton Shores for the Wednesday Night Familiar Favorites Summer Concert Series
- $5,000 to Wildlife Preservation Canada for their Preserving the Buzz: Expanding Community Citizen Science for Pollinator Conservation at the Pinery Provincial Park
The Grand Men Fund contributed to the $5,800 that was granted to the Grand Bend Area Community Health Centre for their Food Pantry Program. Cindy Maxwell accepted the grant on the centre’s behalf from Bruce Hough, Greater Grand Bend Area Advisory Committee member.
The Huron Entrepreneur Fund Grant of $2,000 was awarded to the Alexander Marine and General Hospital Foundation to support vital healthcare services.
The Ukraine Resettlement Fund Grant of $1,287 was awarded to the Goderich Lions Club’s Newcomers Fund to assist resettlement efforts in collaboration with local organizations.
The MJ Muma Fund Grant of $9,666 was awarded to the Grand Bend Area Community Health Centre towards their Elevator Upgrades for the Visually and Hearing Impaired.
The MJ Muma Bursary Fund Scholarship of $1,700 was presented to two students ($850 each) at North Lambton Secondary School on Dec. 19.
Janzen, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many funders, partners, and volunteers whose generosity made these grants possible.
“This evening is a celebration of our community’s collective spirit and commitment to creating positive change,” said Janzen.
The evening concluded with opportunities for networking, collaboration, and envisioning future initiatives to support a vibrant and growing community.
The Sunset Community Foundation invites everyone to the next Grant Awards Celebration, scheduled in South Huron for late May 2025.
For more information about the Greater Grand Bend Area Community Fund and how to get involved, please connect with call Peter Janzen at 519 615-1351 or email him at pete.k.janzen@gmail.com.
LIBRO PROVIDES GRANT FOR SHARP SIMULATION LAB
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) recently received a grant from Libro Credit Union. Taking part in the presentation were from l-r: Nancy Simpson, Gateway secretary; Debb Finch, Libro Advice and Services co-ordinator; Breanne Stafford, Libro Regional manager; Michael Mask, Libro Owner Experience representative; Gwen Devereaux, Gateway president; and Karissa Eckert, Gateway Marketing and Administration co-ordinator. In front: Libro Owner Council Representative Larry Reinhart. (Submitted photo)
On Monday, Nov. 25, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) proudly accepted a $20,000 grant from Libro Credit Union in support of the SHARP Simulation Lab. The cheque presentation ceremony took place at Gateway, marking a significant milestone in advancing healthcare training in rural communities.
The SHARP Simulation Lab is a cornerstone of the Skilled Healthcare Attraction & Retention Program (SHARP), designed to enhance the skills and capabilities of healthcare professionals in rural areas. This grant from Libro Credit Union will facilitate the development of cutting-edge simulation technology, providing hands-on training opportunities for nurses, personal support workers, and other healthcare practitioners.
Gwen Devereaux, president of Gateway, expressed her appreciation by stating, “We are incredibly grateful to Libro Credit Union for awarding us this grant. Their support will significantly strengthen our efforts to provide high-quality healthcare training and improve rural health outcomes.”
Libro’s Regional Manager, Community Banking, Breanne Stafford shared, “At Libro, we’re focused on strengthening the financial well-being of the people and the communities we serve. Partnering with Gateway on the Simulation Lab project supports employment by increasing training and skills of healthcare professionals and reducing staffing shortages in the sector. We’re excited to see this project develop and retain skilled healthcare professionals in our region!”
Libro Credit Union’s commitment to fostering community growth and development shines through initiatives like this, which empower rural areas with essential resources and training opportunities.
CAMPAIGN LETTERS HAVE BEEN MAILED OUT
Huron Hospice has launched its annual “Wings of a Dove” fundraiser – the letters are now in the mail. This year, the campaign will raise money to fund the Loss, Grief and Bereavement service at Huron Hospice.
Christopher Walker, manager of Fund Development said that “due to the labour disruption at Canada Post, the campaign was delayed. Although it was delayed, the need is real.”
People can make year-end gifts to Huron Hospice by making a gift online, by E-transfer, or over the phone. If people want to donate by cheque, it can be dropped off at Bender House or mailed to Huron Hospice, 98 Shipley Street, Clinton, ON, N0M 1L0. People can log in or call www.huronhospice.ca or Christopher Walker at 519-525-7352. E-transfers can be made to donations@huronhospice.ca.
It is important to remember that the fundraiser helps pay for the Loss, Grief and Bereavement Support Program at Huron Hospice. The program helps children, youth and adults learn how to manage their grief. Because of the fundraiser, Huron Hospice offers the Program at no cost to the participants. The last thing a family should have to think about at a challenging time is the cost of services. It’s all about making sure that compassionate care is available across Huron County.
According to Huron Hospice Executive Director, Willy Van Klooster, “Loss comes in many forms, the death of someone special, a marital breakdown or the loss of a job. At some point in our lives, we will all experience a loss. When we do, we will grieve. For some people grief becomes a challenge that is hard to manage. This kind of grief can affect daily life and when this happens, it is okay to say, ‘I need help’.”
When people give to Wings of a Dove, Compass Minerals, Merner Contracting, the Lions Club of Brussels and an anonymous donor will match all gifts up to $20,000.
Walker commented that, “Compass Minerals, Merner Contracting, the Brussels Lions Club and our anonymous donor have been wonderful supporters of Huron Hospice for several years. The match means a gift of $100 becomes $200 and $250 grows to $500.”
Walker also said, “Giving feels good, and it feels even better when you know you are supporting such an important cause.”
It is important to remember if anyone feels like they are having a difficult time managing their grief, they should not hesitate to call Huron Hospice. They are available to help. Please call Sally Brodie at 519 525-6331.
HPHA
The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) is pleased to confirm that Clinton Public Hospital will be extending its Emergency Department (ED) hours in the New Year. Starting Jan. 20, 2025, the ED will operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., an increase from the current hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“As part of a regional system of emergency care, our Clinton Public Hospital Emergency Department Team continues to provide outstanding care to those served and the HPHA remains committed to ensuring responsible access to safe and timely care,” said President and CEO, Andrew Williams.
For emergencies or serious medical issues, community members are advised to call 911.
HPHA is dedicated to ensuring safe, high-quality, responsibly accessible care for all patients and remains grateful for the community’s ongoing support. For further updates and information about their services, please visit www.hpha.ca.
WATER RESPONSE TEAM
The Water Response Team (WRT) has removed the Level 1 Low Water Advisory for the entire Ausable Bayfield watershed area. Following an extended period of dry weather, watershed conditions are responding favorably to the significant snow, recent melts, and the addition of rainfall.
A snowmelt and runoff event in mid-December 2024 has provided a significant input into stream flows and, through the winter, with normal conditions, the WRT is optimistic that watershed conditions will remain near seasonal.
The Chair of the WRT, Marissa Vaughan, thanked both industries and individuals who voluntarily reduced their water usage in response to the dry weather observed through the summer and autumn.
“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,” Vaughan 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; Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness; and Environment, Conservation and Parks. Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (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 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.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER
Every Thursday morning Good Neighbors of Bluewater (GNOB) has the coffee on and warm muffins are served fresh out of the oven. Starting at 10 a.m. folks are invited to drop in and join in a conservation with friends. The “Meet Your Community Neighbour “ segment is held on the second Thursday of each month. This is a casual time of conversation including a question and answer time.
Meet Your Community Neighbour will continue in the New Year, the special guests scheduled for casual conversion and/or a meet and greet are:
- Jan. 9 – Judith Parker and Marion Cornish, Fidget Apron Creators from Exeter
- Jan. 23 – Bluewater and Area Family Health Team Social Workers, Ashley Blake and Bethany Keep
- Feb. 13, Municipality of Bluewater Councilor, Winona Bailey Sangster
GNOB have a couple of Tuesday evening events in the works as well, both set for 7 p.m.:
- Jan. 21 – Financial Education Evening with Jim Lynn Retired Financial Consultant
- March 25 – Author Jody Durand reading from his book “Country Boy Soul: Pasture to Prosperity”
Programs being offered in the New Year include an Intergenerational Knitting and Crocheting Club, for ages nine to 90 plus, to be held on Wednesday afternoons starting Jan. 8. Sessions will run from 3:30-5 p.m. Both beginning and accomplished knitters and crocheters welcome. The cost will be $5 per session and includes a snack. Please register to take part at gnob@hay.net.
GNOB will be closed from Dec. 23 to Sunday, Jan. 5. Reopening on Monday, Jan. 6. Merry Christmas to all!
HURON HOSPICE
Hockey enthusiasts in the area can look forward to a Benefit Celebrity Hockey Game presented in support of the Central Huron Firefighters’ Charity of Choice: Huron Hospice.
The Central Huron Firefighters will face off against a full line-up of former NHL hockey heroes. This fantastic community event promises lots of skill and lots of laughs, and is guaranteed to be a fun and memorable event for all ages!
The puck will drop in Clinton at Eastlink Arena on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
This game is in support of Huron Hospice. For 30 years, families have turned to Huron Hospice for support at the end-of-life. Huron Hospice provides care at Bender House and in the community for people with life-limiting illnesses. Huron Hospice also provides loss and grief support for children, youth and adults.
Since opening the residence in 2018, Huron Hospice has made moments matter for more than 250 individuals and their families at Bender House, and for 600 individuals and their families in the community. There are no costs for any services. Huron Hospice is a place where families celebrate lives-lived.
Tickets may be available at the door for $32 each if they last! Discounted tickets are available in advance through the Event Ticket & Info Line: 1-888-777-9793 or www.ProHockeyHeroes.com. A portion of the promotion will consist of a telemarketing campaign in Clinton and the surrounding area.
TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR CONSERVATION DINNER
Justin Buchanan, secretary of Exeter Lions Club (left); and Abbie Gutteridge, secretary of Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (right), sold the first two tickets for Conservation Dinner 2025 to Ted Oke, councilor of the Municipality of South Huron. The Conservation Dinner Committee thanks Oke for buying the first tickets. Committee Chair Chris Keller encourages other people to get their tickets for this event in support of conservation projects in the community. (Submitted photo)
The 35th Conservation Dinner takes place on Thursday, Apr. 3, 2025. This gala dinner and charitable auction has raised more than $1.39 million, for projects in local communities, over its history dating back almost three and a half decades.
The Conservation Dinner Committee Chair for 2025 is Chris Keller of the Exeter Lions Club. He encourages people to “save the date” and mark the date on their calendars. People may even consider purchasing tickets as gifts during the Christmas season.
The Conservation Dinner is a partnership of Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) and Exeter Lions Club and the entire community. The Chair describes the event as a great evening of fun, fellowship and community betterment.
People can find out more at conservationdinner.com.
The Exeter Lions Club has been co-partner, with ABCF and the watershed community, on the Dinner, since 1991. Net profits are split 50-50 between community conservation projects of ABCF and community conservation projects of the Exeter Lions Club.
The Conservation Dinner supports projects that include accessible nature trails in Bayfield, Clinton, Parkhill, Lucan, Arkona, Exeter, and Varna; makes it possible for more students to experience outdoor nature education; a $1,000 student environmental bursary benefiting students in local communities; a summer job at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority for a student beginning their post-secondary education in an environment-related field; turtle monitoring and events in Port Franks and Ailsa Craig; aquatic habitat studies in Old Ausable Channel, Grand Bend; and projects like nature day camps, fishing derby and Owl Prowl, and parks and conservation areas.
The annual charitable event features live and silent auctions of art and other distinctive items including travel packages and sports and entertainment memorabilia. The Dinner also includes special raffles, general raffles, appetizers, fun and fellowship, and a wonderful meal.
The Conservation Dinner will take place at South Huron Recreation Centre located at 94 Victoria Street East in Exeter. Tickets are $100 each and patrons receive a charitable gift receipt, for income tax purposes, for a portion of that amount.
To buy tickets to the Conservation Dinner, or to donate, 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 Hwy 83).
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.
before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.
Christmas morning has arrived and hopefully with its dawning many holiday wishes have been granted for those who believe in the magic of a jolly old elf and his fleet of tiny reindeer…
CHRISTMAS DECORATION
This is a decorative ornament of Santa Claus in a sleigh on snow pulled by two reindeer. On the back of the sleigh is a bag filled with toys and gifts.
This ornament is part of a large collection of Santas and Christmas decorations that were collected by Doug and Gemey Bland beginning the year they were married in 1943 and continued for the next 61 years. Many of the Santas were collected while traveling both personally and professionally, some came from as far away as Honduras and Mexico as well as many from the southern United States.
Santa and his reindeer
OPTIMIST CLUB OF BAYFIELD
YOUTH THE LEGACY OF 40 YEARS OF OPTIMISM
STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
The Optimist Club of Bayfield hit a milestone in 2024 – the organization is 40 years young!
What is the legacy of the Optimist Club of Bayfield? Their contributions to village society are perhaps harder to quantify than other organizations of comparable character – through their volunteerism they have always been and continue to remain friends of youth.
Optimist Mike Dixon, a member for over 30 years, shared that late in the summer of 1984 a member of the Optimist Club of Bluewater in Sarnia, ON came into Brandon’s Hardware and explained to Brian Brandon what the Optimist Club did for youth. That visitor was Wayne McKaig. His initial influence helped establish the club which was chartered in 1984 with 44 members. McKaig would later move to Bayfield and remained an active member until his death in early 2023.
Ask someone who has grown up in the village since the 1980s and their childhood will no doubt have been highlighted by the Optimist family-friendly calendar of events: Spring would bring the Chili Cook-off, Easter Egg Hunt and Bike Rodeo; Summer would first be ushered in by “Children’s Sports Day” which later evolved into “Play Day in the Park”; and of course, as winter settled in Breakfast with Santa would be a most anticipated event.
In the early days between the events on the calendar the Optimists were active sponsors of baseball, hockey and soccer teams – with many uniforms emblazoned with the Optimist logo. They also supported the local skating club, Girl Guides and Scouting programs. Today many of these same organizations continue to benefit from the club’s support but others have been added such as Tutoring Programs, outdoor experiences and the Bayfield Lego Club.
In 1989, the club realized a goal of providing new playground equipment in Clan Gregor Square. This equipment serviced the community well until 2005 when it was replaced during the “Park Revitalization Project”. This project was a true community effort but in keeping with their mandate, the Optimists’ focus remained the playground. Between 2006-2008 Optimist Nora Dowler, headed a team that raised $450,000 to fund the park renovations and new playground equipment with the Optimist Club raising $70,000 towards this project.
In 1996, in the Agricultural Park located behind the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena another club goal was achieved when the membership worked with many of the village’s young people to construct a cement pad that would be used for skateboarding and basketball.
One of the club members crowning achievements was the creation of the Splash Pad in Clan Gregor Square which was opened during a grand celebration on June 30th, 2013. The club has raised over $200,000 for this wonderful asset that continues to be a favorite place to play in the summertime for young families. In July of 2023, the Splash Pad was formally renamed the “Optimist Mike Dixon Splash Pad”, in honor of Dixon, who along with the late McKaig spearheaded the fundraising initiative behind this water feature.
In 2017, the Optimist Club joined forces with the Bayfield Lions’ Club and the Bayfield Farmers’ Market to add a washroom facility at the Splash Pad. In this truly united community effort $75,000 was raised and the facility built for the convenience of all visitors to Clan Gregor Square.
Another of the club’s memorable achievements happened during their 30th year when in the summer of 2014 they rallied 14 other clubs, societies and organizations to bring “The Tall Ships Tour” to Bayfield. Numerous fundraising efforts were put forth to raise the necessary $10,000 to bring the ships to the harbor and it was decided that instead of charging admission donations would be requested. The result was over $9,500 was raised and invested back into the community.
Raising money to support all of these projects and initiatives is another aspect of being an Optimist. A very popular and successful fundraiser for the club was the “Wood Auction” started in the early 1990s. Local craftsmen and artisans would be called upon to fashion items out of wood that could be auctioned off. In the early years everything was wood: garden sheds, picnic tables, birdhouses and carved rocking horses are just a sampling of what was created. Then as the fundraiser grew and evolved it was opened up to offer a variety of items so that local merchants and talents in other mediums could donate. In the fall of 2003, the Club held its biggest and most successful auction raising $23,000. That year all the profits were earmarked for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southwestern Ontario – an organization the club has championed over the years.
For the past four decades, the community has graciously supported the club’s ongoing fundraisers to allow them to continue their work. These have included such events as, raffle ticket sales, Halloween and New Years dances, fireworks displays, a restaurant walk, golf tournaments, ladies’ night and a Christmas house tour.
Currently two major fundraising campaigns include selling engraved bricks around the Splash Pad and the annual Rubber Duck Race with every dollar raised going to support youth related causes.
“One of our most favorite events is our Rubber Duck Race, which is held on the Sunday of the Victoria Day Weekend,” explained Jeff Kish, the current president of the Optimist Club. “During our last race, 1,250 numbered rubber ducks were launched into the river while hundreds of spectators watched the little yellow flock float sometimes downstream and sometimes upstream – we never really know which way they will go. The first six numbered ducks to cross the finish line match up to the prizes donated by our local business community. It is truly one of the most enjoyable and entertaining village events of the year.”
During the Covid-19 era, Optimist Mike Dixon compiled a history of the club that is now on file at both the Bayfield Historical Society Archives and the Bayfield Branch Library.
Kish added that like most service clubs the local Optimists found navigating through the pandemic challenging with regards to maintaining their fundraising and volunteer activities.
“But the club survived and is now prospering once again with a new group of local women who have joined the club thanks to Tara Heard, a longstanding proponent of the club. These members are spinning new ideas and excitement back into the club such as the Youth Fishing Derby and Bayfield Kids’ Corner.”
So what is the legacy of the Optimist Club of Bayfield? Without a doubt, it would be the youth in the community. Those youngsters who looked forward to the calendar of club events and got involved as children are now bringing their own children out to the club events and some of them are even joining as club members. They realize that it is now their turn to help and that is a strong legacy indeed – hopefully one that will last another 40 years.
Anyone interested in joining the Optimist Club of Bayfield or who is in need of more information is encouraged to contact Jeff Ksh via email at Jeff.kish.home@gmail.com.
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
51854912498_7d52e952ba_k
Melody Falconer-Pounder
In May of this year we were fortunate enough to enjoy a family trip to Alaska. This trip was one of my highlights of 2024 so please indulge me as I share one of my favorite pictures from this vacation with you today. A digital greeting for the season at it were.
From our family to yours – Merry Christmas – with wishes for a happy and healthy 2025. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.