Issue 785 Week 31 Vol 16 (2024)

FIFTY-TWO VISITS WITH A DOZEN OF THE NICEST PEOPLE YOU’D EVER CARE TO MEET

EDITOR’S NOTE: Sometimes nice nostalgic stories like the one following come across my desk and I am pleased to share it here. Hopefully it will spark a few memories for other people who have such a fondness for the village that visiting becomes a yearly tradition and remind those of us who live in this area just how fortunate we are.

STORY BY DENNIS METZER AND EDWARD NOGA

Actually, it all started in Hespeler, ON. The year was 1971 when six seminarians from Cincinnati, Ohio, decided to spend part of their summer vacation attending Stratford plays. A Holiday Inn in Hespeler was their destination and thus the story begins.

Stratford doesn’t need any explanation to Canadians but you might wonder about the seminary in Cincinnati. A Roman Catholic seminary for young men discerning the priesthood in the church began in Cincinnati in 1831. In the early 1970s, the seminary had two campuses, a college campus in the Mount Washington area of Cincinnati and the major seminary/theology campus in Norwood, Ohio (a city completely surrounded by Cincinnati). Several dioceses in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Florida sent students to the school in southern Ohio. In this setting, it was an obvious reality that new friendships would develop. The original six travelers to experience Shakespeare’s plays were from Columbus, Toledo and Youngstown Ohio, as well as Fort Wayne, Indiana.

In June, 1973, Ted (from Columbus) ventured out to scout a new site for the annual summer excursion. He found two cottages in New Hamburg. Unfortunately that stay lasted only one night. “Why?” you might ask. Let’s just say that the price was right, but the amenities were not of Holiday Inn calibre.

Ted ventured west and found the Deer Park Lodge on the north edge of Bayfield. There were vacancies, so the storyline continues and has continued each summer since. In 1973, Deer Park was owned and operated by an elderly couple named Mel and Alice Brown. They were residents of London, ON and lived at Deer Park only in season. In those days, it was a pretty quiet place with primarily families renting the cottages. There were lots and lots of family activities on the compound.

In those early years, the cottages were basically three bedrooms, each having a double bed, with barely enough room to walk around the bed. There were no doors on the bedroom — only a curtain across the entrance. (Stories were told that Deer Park began as a fishing camp in 1906 for weary fisherman after a long day on Lake Huron.) Besides the three bedrooms, the cottages consisted of a kitchen/eating area and a small half-bathroom with a Canadian Pacific toilet (complete with foot-pedal flush) and a small sink. The cottages had no hot water. That luxury was bucketed in from the common (spider-infested) shower block in the center of the compound. Some cottages had a small screened-in porch, others did not.

The stairs to the private beach consisted of rotting wood, and were eventually replaced by a steel stairway which was not installed at the proper angle and was difficult to navigate. All in all, it was a fun spot with lots to do and an easy drive to Stratford. Those summer evenings, usually after supper, horseshoes were a must. Oh, the stories that have been written over these 50 plus years! One day, one of the crew, B (Bill), had a brilliant idea to cook chicken over an open fire on the beach. A nice idea, but unfortunately the fire couldn’t be stoked enough to get the fowl much beyond rare even after several hours. We were lucky to keep salmonella at bay.

If memory serves, the weekly rental in those early years was $150 (US). Those were the days my friends!

Yesterday, those were the days and they still are! For over five decades we have enjoyed the hospitality and charm and the beaches of Bayfield. The evening strolls along Main Street (with ice cream at both ends) and the most beautiful sunsets in North America were always an end-of-day treat. We can all remember many rides back home from Stratford reviewing the sets and characters of the plays and the dinners we enjoyed before or after the performances.

Following Mel and Alice, Tom Dunbar and Mary Pounder took over as proprietors of Deer Park. And in these later years, Kirsten Harrett and her staff have welcomed us back during the first full week of August. In the early years, the first week of August was the most conducive time for vacation as some of our crew were high school teachers and principals. The first week of August became the week of choice, and as many of us became pastors, the secretarial staff at our parishes knew that weddings or other major parish events were not available that first week because the boys were in Bayfield.

These days, as we look forward to another year and relish the years past, there are five of us that Harry’s (a Main Street establishment) will welcome back. At the height of this memorable saga, there were fourteen of us. Six of our friends have passed on to their eternal reward, one is now past 90 years-old. Several years ago, he announced he was not traveling anymore. Another has passed 80 years and told us last season that he probably would not be joining us this year. Two of our number are married with children, and four of us are retired. One of the current travelers is a lawyer. His wife is more than kind to accommodate tradition. The “youngest” of the group is still in active ministry at a wonderful Catholic High School.

Year number fifty-two this year. We have given ourselves a dispensation on the number since Covid changed everything for a while. I think most of us have gone through three passport expirations since we started. Every stop at the border and Customs has been worth it. Each year as we cross the Blue Water Bridge at Port Huron, it’s like coming home. This year, we will be enjoying Stratford’s offering of “Twelfth Night”, “Romeo and Juliet” and “Something Rotten”. See you in August!!

FOOD TRUCKS TO PROVIDE TASTES OF THE FAIR

The countdown is on! The Bayfield Community Fair is now just over three weeks away – Aug. 16-18. Fair organizers encourage everyone in the community to come out and experience all the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Fair.

The Fair has something for everyone throughout the weekend: Friday night Rib Dinner and fireworks, Saturday morning parade, homecraft exhibits, activities and entertainment for kids, 4-H dairy and sheep competitions, horse shows, Saturday evening Rock Revival concert in partnership with the Bayfield Town Hall, as well as unique events for all ages, competitions, demonstrations, vendors, educational displays, and so much more.

People planning to attend the Fair always wonder what food will be available. Organizers note that the Bayfield Fair will have food options to satisfy every craving.

The Bayfield Agricultural Society will be hosting a Rib Dinner at the Agricultural Park on Friday, Aug. 16 with continuous serving from 5-7 p.m. Full details and ticket information can be found by visiting: Rib Dinner Details.

Based on the success of the food trucks at last year’s Fair, the organizers are pleased to offer even more food trucks in 2024. The food trucks will be available during the day on both Saturday, Aug. 17 and Sunday, Aug. 18.

Fair organizers are delighted to welcome the following lineup of food trucks:

• Local Rolla “Farm to Fork”
• Pitstop Grill
• All Fired Up Funnel Cakes
• Mr. Cool Ice Cream
• Coastal Coffee

Returning to this year’s Fair after a short absence is the ever-popular pie and beverage booth in the arena. Fairgoers can take a few minutes to relax and enjoy a slice of pie and a cold drink. The pie and beverage booth will be available on the afternoon of Aug. 17.

Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) will be at the Fair again this year providing free filtered water at a booth close to the back door of the arena. Fairgoers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles and OCWA will be happy to fill them with refreshing water. There is also a water refill station in the arena foyer area.

For the 2024 Fair Schedule and details, please visit www.BayfieldFair.ca Lots of fun events and activities are in the works, so check back often and stay tuned.

Join in the fun – enjoy the delicious food choices at the Fair!

KNOX CHURCH CELEBRATES ANNIVERSARY

Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield is hosting a “Speaker Series” on topics of interest to seniors and their families.

The next instalment of the Speaker Series will be held on Sunday, July 28 starting at 1:30 p.m. Christopher Walker from Huron Hospice Bender House will speak to their mission which is to provide quality, hospice palliative care in the rural community. Attendees will learn about the services available at Huron Hospice. Although there is no cost to attend, a free-will offering would be appreciated. Those who attend are invited to join in afterwards for coffee, tea and dessert. Seats fill up quickly so be sure to arrive early. All are welcome!

This summer Knox Church will celebrate its 167th anniversary. On Sunday, July 21, Knox had a special anniversary service with Marten Dykstra, guest preacher, and welcomed Bayfield’s own Harpist Martha Lawrance as their musical guest.

“We were deeply touched to welcome many new faces on Sunday morning to our little church with a big heart to join in our anniversary celebration! Afterwards a reception was held where cake and beverages were served, and conversation was enjoyed by all,” said Teresa Steel, representing Knox Church.

On Sunday July 28, Lawrance will return to Knox Bayfield as their musical guest at their 11 a.m. service. To learn more about Lawrance visit: My Harp Heals. And again 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.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY THIS SUNDAY AFTERNOON

On Apr. 15, the oldest Anglican Church in Huron County, Trinity St. James in Bayfield moved from a full church to a Chapel of Ease. The definition of a Chapel of Ease is “a church which has ceased to function for a congregation, but is still used for and occasional services up to a maximum of six per calendar year and has the resources, human and financial, to maintain itself.”

In the remainder of 2024, four services are planned and it is the hope of those maintaining this beautiful chapel that members of all denominations will come and join in the spirit of celebration.

The dates for these Sunday afternoon services have been selected and are as follows: July 28, Aug. 25, Oct. 6 and Dec. 15. The services will begin at 2:30 p.m.

On July 28, the chapel will play host to “Christmas in July” with no worry about traveling in snowstorms! Those who wish to take part in some carol singing prior to the service are invited to arrive at 2 p.m. to get everyone in the proper festive mood. This full communion service will be led by Rev. Paul McLean. Following the service all are invited to the TSJ Hall, for a time of fellowship and to decorate, not to mention eat, gingerbread cookies!

On Aug. 25, the chapel service will acknowledge the community’s mariner heritage with special music. This full communion service will be led by Rev’d Dr. Justin Comber. Following this service the TSJ Hall Association members are planning a Fish Fry Fundraiser. The menu will include ¼ lb. White Perch and fresh cut fries (supplied by Out of the Blue Fish and Seafood Market); with coleslaw. There is a limited number of tickets available at $20 per person. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Melody Falconer-Pounder by calling 519 525-3830 or emailing melody.pounder@gmail.com. Proceeds from the Fish Fry will help keep the doors of the TSJ Hall open for continued community use.

Formerly known as the Parish Hall, the TSJ Hall, located at 10 Keith Crescent in the village, is now operated for community use by an Association and is available to rent for such uses as club and business meetings, family gatherings or events including, weddings and funerals.

THIRTY-FIVE FELINES LOOKING FOR HOMES DURING KITTEN PALOOZA

“Kitten Palooza” a special adoption event hosted by Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) will be held on Sunday, July 28 at 16 Keith Crescent in the village.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. visitors can interact with more than 35 kittens currently looking for their forever homes out of the approximately 70 under the Rescue’s care. Youngsters will be treated to kitten themed temporary tattoos and stickers and those people who adopt a kitten will have that same kitten immortalized with a custom painting as a thank you for adopting.

Some of the over three dozen kittens that will be at the event are ready to go to their forever homes; while some are still waiting for their final surgery but can go to their new home as a “foster to adopt”; and still others need to stay with BFF a bit longer but can be adopted now and their new family members can even come to visit them.

BFF makes every attempt to ensure that the kittens they adopt out are the right fit for families but they aren’t always successful. Such is the case with the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week – Tinker Bell.

“Tinker Bell came to us as a young kitten with a horrendous injury. Her tail had been degloved, and she ended up having to have her tail amputated,” explained Deb Penhale, representing BFF.

Penhale went on to explain that about six months ago, Tinker Bell was adopted by well-meaning people who were taken by her beauty and her sad story. Their initial plan had been to adopt a quieter, more sedate cat as they had recently lost their 18-year-old cat and that was the kind of pet they were accustomed to.

“Although we explained very carefully that Tinker Bell was a kitten and would be prone to kitten things, they were smitten,” said Penhale. “And now, unfortunately, they have surrendered her back to the Rescue after coming to realize their error. Tinker Bell is in fact an energetic playful kitten, and they just couldn’t keep up with her.”

According to Penhale, Tinker Bell is confused and seems a little sad to have lost her home, however, she is also confident that the kitten’s family is out there waiting. Tinker Bell is described as a beautiful young cat, just under one year-old, with eyes the size of saucers, who is super affectionate and still very active. It is recommended that she be adopted by a family with another cat for a playmate or an active household.

Can’t wait for Kitten Palooza, or wanting a more mature cat? Reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com.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.

BAYFIELD ARTIST GUILD

Two exciting events are upcoming for the members of the Bayfield Artist Guild (BAG).

Today (July 24), BAG members will be painting under the Willow Tree at the Little Inn of Bayfield. People are encouraged to stop by and meet the artists! The public will also have the opportunity to purchase paintings of the Inn that day.

Art lovers should also mark their calendars for the Bayfield Artist Guild’s Annual Show and Sale. It is set for Saturday, Aug. 17 from noon to 3 p.m. Guild members will be set up across from Pioneer Park on the Lighthouse lawn.

The Little Inn of Bayfield is located at 26 Main Street North in the village.

RATEPAYERS’ ANNUAL MEETING

Residents with an interest in local concerns are invited to attend the Bayfield Ratepayers Association’s (BRA) Annual Meeting on Saturday, Aug. 3rd at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena.

The Annual Meeting will run for one-hour starting at 10 a.m.

Topics for discussion will include a Short Term Rental Bylaw update and a Bayfield Heritage Plan update.

“We also plan to take a deep dive into the Municipal Leasing Policy for Service Group Operated Buildings here in the Village as their leases are currently being negotiated. The buildings being referenced are the Bayfield Town Hall, the Lions Community Building and the Bayfield Historical Society’s Archives and Heritage Centre on Main Street,” said President of the BRA, Don Schafheitlin.

The BRA are in need of three directors to serve on their Board. Anyone who may be interested in becoming involved, can state their interest at the annual meeting, or contact Schafheitlin prior to the meeting via email at dschaf@globalserve.net. Time commitments for directors include a one hour monthly Board meeting and periodic attendance at the Municipality of Bluewater’s council meetings in order to keep the BRAs membership current with issues affecting Bayfield.

The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.

TOWN HALL

The next concert hosted by the Bayfield Town Hall will have people breaking out their best hippie garb!

In celebration of the 55th anniversary of Woodstock and back by popular demand, “The Woodstock Experience” returns to the town hall’s outdoor stage on Aug. 3rd.

The Woodstock Experience features Cheryl Lescom, Chuckee Zehr, Rick Taylor, Dylan Wickens, Dale Ann Brendon, and Mark Shickluna. Those who attend can relive the musical presentations of Richie Havens, Arlo Guthrie, Joe co*cker, Janis Joplin, Jefferson Airplane, Crosby Stills and Nash and more.

For The Woodstock Experience the gates to the town hall grounds will open at 6:30 p.m. The concert will run from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are $40. There will be a cash bar and people are asked to bring their own lawn chair for this performance.

The Bayfield Town Hall concerts are put on by the Board of Directors of the hall to cover all of the costs to maintain and operate the Town Hall.

Tickets for The Woodstock Experience are available from www.BayfieldTownHall.com.

UKULELE SOCIETY

The Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS), after months stuck indoors, have tuned up their instruments for an exciting season ahead. Outdoor jams have now begun in Clan Gregor Square. Whether a seasoned ukulele enthusiast or someone who’s never strummed a chord, all are most welcome to join in the fun. No ukulele – no problem. The BUS loves an audience of singers and dancers.

The group gathers at the gazebo Saturday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m.and Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m.(weather permitting).

And be sure to keep an eye out for the BUS at many local summer festivities including:

• Bayfield Parade – Aug. 17
• Stratford Summer Music (on the barge) – Aug. 10
• Bayfield Volkfest – Sept. 29

They are also hosting their first ever Bayfield Ukulele Festival in September.

Set for Saturday, Sept. 28 it will feature a full day of workshops in Bayfield with talented instructors and an evening concert at the Bayfield Town Hall for workshop participants. The event is quickly selling out but a few tickets are still available. Please contact bayfieldukulele@gmail.com for more details.

The group can be found on Facebook at Bayfield Ukulele Society or email bayfieldukulele@gmail.com.

BAYFIELD CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) will present a rare opportunity for lovers of the Canadian landscape and art enthusiasts alike on the afternoon of Aug. 20 at the Bayfield Town Hall.

Jim and Sue Waddington have spent 47 years documenting more than 800 locations that the renowned Group of Seven artists, and Tom Thompson, have famously painted.

These artists rode trains, weedled boat rides, climbed rock faces, camped and hiked backcountry and paddled waters to reach views that inspired them across Canada.

Since these artists left no detailed records of the exact location they painted, Jim and Sue will discuss the puzzle of locating the painting sites and what they have learned about the painters.

Many of these paintings are now found at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinberg, The National Gallery in Ottawa and the Tom Thompson Art Gallery in Owen Sound.

In this interesting and informative talk see photographs from Killarney, Algonquin, Neys, Lake Superior and Bon Echo Parks, the Georgian Bay Islands, Nova Scotia, British Columbia, the Yukon and Nunavut.

“Join us for a fascinating presentation by Jim and Sue Waddington and this one of a kind opportunity to ‘see’ our own country through the eyes of our most famous painters!” said Leslee Squirrell, president of the BCA.

Signed copies of the Waddingtons’ stunning book “In The Footsteps of The Group of Seven” will be available for purchase after this illustrated talk.

The presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. Seating is limited. Those who wish to attend can reserve their tickets now at: In the Footsteps – Tickets.

To learn more about the Waddingtons visit: CBC Interview.

The Bayfield Town Hall is located at 11 The Square in the village.

FOBL

Friends of the Bayfield Library (FOBL) is happy to announce the return of the summer-long “Red Table Book Sale” at the Bayfield Branch Library from now until Aug. 31st during regular library hours.

The Red Table will be regularly stocked with books while supplies last. This means two full months of book browsing and time to stock up on Summer and Fall reading!

Payment is by financial donation. All proceeds from the Red Table Book Sale will be used by FOBL to sponsor activities and programs at the Bayfield Library throughout the year.

New this year – FOBL is organizing outdoor, pop-up book sales from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the library on the following Saturdays:

• Aug. 3rd
• Aug. 17
• Aug. 31st

FOBL greatly appreciates the community’s support for this major fundraising project.

READING CHALLENGE

The “Pizza Pages Reading Challenge” started on July 8 and is for kids aged four to 12 years. The challenge ends on Aug. 23.

Participants will have a chance to earn an exclusive invitation to a pizza party provided by Bayfield’s Olio located at 19b Main Street North in the village.

To join in the fun, eager readers should pick up a reading log from the Bayfield Branch Library; start reading and recording their progress; and then return their reading logs to the Library by Aug. 23.

The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.

RCMP MUSICAL RIDE

The Bayfield Agricultural Society and REACH Huron are proud to present the RCMP Musical Ride at the Clinton Raceway on Labour Day weekend – Aug. 31st and Sept. 1st.

A symbol of tradition, honor and pride, the RCMP Musical Ride features riders and their horses performing a variety of intricate formations and cavalry drills set to music. The result is a spectacular display of precision and skill!

There will be two performances: one on Saturday, Aug. 31st at 5 p.m. (gates open at 4 p.m.) and the other on Sunday, Sept. 1st at 5 p.m. (gates open at 3 p.m.).

Both performances will take place at the Clinton Raceway, 129 Beech Street in Clinton.

Ticket prices are: Adults – $15; Kids aged six to 12 – $10; Kids aged five and under – free.

Tickets for this once-in-a-lifetime experience can be purchased online at https://events.frontdoor.plus/event/555.

For information, please call 519 482-3998.

PIRATES OF THE PHARMA-SEA

Yo-ho-ho and a whole lot of deals! Ahoy Mateys! Pirates are preparing to land at Michael’s Pharmasave in Bayfield for a two-day, customer appreciation event on July 24 and July 25.

These pirates will be slashing prices on almost all in-store over-the-counter products by 20 per cent. People could sail the Seven Seas and not find deals like these.

Those folks who have some spare coin after taking in all the deals are invited to check out the Silent Auction in support of Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines, and pick up one of the loot bags that will be available by donation.

Anyone who would like to see what is in store for all landlubbers who visit the pharmacy on those two days in July should check out this video: Pharmasave Pirates.

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 just $2.

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.

DISCOVERY HEALTHCARE CAMPERS EXPLORE CAREER POSSIBILITIES

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

On July 8 campers who attended Discovery Healthcare Camp held in part at Camp Klahanie in Goderich were welcomed by from l-r: Gateway Centre for Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) Social Science Research Assistant, Neil Haas; Huron County Warden Glen McNeil; Gateway Social Science Research Assistant Student, Sarah Spacek; Gwen Devereaux, president of Gateway; MPP for Huron-Bruce, Lisa Thompson; and Gateway Research Assistant, Joel Hordijk.

It was an exciting week for students attending the Discovery Healthcare Camp (DHC) in Goderich. A vibrant group of 17 students had the chance to dive into hands-on clinical skills, explore endless career possibilities, and gain invaluable insights from the dedicated health professionals at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH).

“This is the third year Goderich has hosted Discovery Healthcare Camp and it was another very successful year,” said Gwen Devereaux, president at Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway). “We know how important this exposure to various healthcare careers is for high school students, and we are already seeing the results with more local students on a healthcare career path.”

Clinical Nurse Educator at AMGH, Laurie Hakkers, dedicated time to leading students through hands-on clinical exercises, including life-saving CPR and precise medication dosages. Hakkers’ own journey started in 2006 at a summer camp just like this one, where she first discovered her passion for helping others.

“I attended this camp when I was in Grade 11 and it is where my journey in healthcare began,” said Hakkers. “What made this camp unforgettable was that it was my first genuine encounter with the world of healthcare. They gave us hands-on opportunities—suturing stuffed animals, practicing injections on oranges, and even applying casts to fellow campers. These were experiences I had never been exposed to before, and they introduced me to the vast and exciting opportunities that a career in healthcare can offer. It was an eye-opening adventure that set me on a path to make a difference.”

Gateway launched DHC in 2022 in partnership with Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry and Huron Health System. Together, they are not just teaching skills — they are shaping the healthcare leaders of tomorrow.

Rural youth are the future of the workforce; therefore, it is important to invest time and resources into helping them succeed in their various career aspirations. As individuals graduate from high school, they continue life in many different directions. A trend growing in popularity, and one that is needed, is pursuing an education for a future career in healthcare. Recognizing that youth from rural communities are more likely to return to their community after education, this one-week camp for high school students aims to educate, mentor, and inspire students on all the opportunities healthcare has for them.

This year’s camp proved to be interactive, hands-on, and inspiring, as students were able to explore different rural healthcare paths and options. Throughout the week, campers learned how to do cast application, the challenges of aging well, the roles and skills of delivering babies, suturing, the importance of holistic wellbeing and mental health. They toured the various departments at AMGH and there were also presentations by the Ontario Provincial Police, and Huron and Area Search and Rescue (HASAR).

“Hosting and supporting the Discovery Healthcare Camp for high school students aspiring to study healthcare is vital for nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. This camp provides an immersive experience, offering hands-on learning, exposure to various medical fields, and mentorship from experienced practitioners. By continuing this initiative, we inspire and equip students with the knowledge, skills, and passion needed to pursue successful careers in healthcare, ensuring a brighter future for the industry and the well-being of our communities,” said AMGH CEO, Jimmy Trieu.

“Rural health is so important, some of my favorite rotations [in medical school] have been some of my rural ones in the smaller towns because the communities are just so supportive and conducive to learning,” added Deep Sandhu, a third year Medical Student.

“The Discovery Healthcare Camp is an incredible experience for everyone involved. Providing the opportunity for rural students to come out and learn from University of Western’s medical students is exciting and educational. Finding out your career path can be a challenge in high school, so providing this resource to explore, learn, and talk one-on-one with various health professionals is an invaluable tool to thinking about one’s future,” said Gateway Research Assistant, Joel Hordijk.

Organizers would like to give special thanks to the Goderich Lions Club who continually support this initiative every year by providing their outstanding outdoor space, Camp Klahanie, making DHC in Goderich unique as the only outdoor camp run every year. They would also like to thank their various sponsors and donors for helping with camp costs. This year they were pleased to initiate a sponsorship program that financially supports individual students interested in attending the camp. The younger generation is going to grow to be the next front-line healthcare providers, and organizers hope to continue this camp to educate, support, inspire, and grow the community’s own healthcare workforce!

GODERICH ART CLUB TO HOST SHOW AND SALE

The 2024 Goderich Art Club Show and Sale will feature 27 artists and over 400 works of original art at The MacKay Centre from Aug. 9-11.

Started in 1952, the Goderich Art Club has been active for over 70 years and currently has 35 members. This year the feature artist is Jayne Crebolder.

“It is a great community of painters,” said Cindy Fisher, representing the club. “This is a show and sale, so there is no pressure to purchase when you attend the event.”

The Show and Sale will run Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no charge for admission and all are welcome to come and view what should be a pretty fabulous display of art! Cash, cheque, debit and credit cards are accepted.

Fisher went on to explain that the Goderich Art Club and Mackay Centre do not take a commission or percentage of sales from each artist. If a piece of art is sold, the entire amount goes to the artist.

“This is not a ‘money making’ venture for either the art Club or MacKay Centre. Each artist pays a fee to be in the show and that fee supports the programming of the art club and the MacKay Centre for Seniors which is a non-profit organization,” concluded Fisher.

The MacKay Centre, an accessible, air-conditioned building, is located at 10 Nelson Street East, Goderich (corner of North Street. and Nelson).

BUTTERFLY RELEASE SET FOR END OF AUGUST

The Annual Butterfly Release is back at Huron Hospice for its eighth year. On Sunday, Aug. 25, people will release their butterflies and remember loved ones at a Huron Hospice Bender House commemoration ceremony.

The butterfly is a universal symbol of transformation, and the release is a much-anticipated event for Huron County families.

“It is a beautiful way to honor and remember those we have lost in our community and recognize the important work done at Huron Hospice,” said Willy Van Klooster. “We think the gardens at Bender House are an ideal location to release butterflies and remember. Families can also pick up and release them at an important place to their family.”

Huron Hospice will livestream the commemorative event at the Bender House and broadcast it on YouTube and social media.

Huron Hospice will sell Painted Lady Butterflies, Butterfly Bushes, Black-Eyed Susans, and Purple Coneflowers. Painted Lady Butterflies are $40, Butterfly Bushes are $38, and Black-Eyed Susans and Purple Coneflowers will sell for $25. These plants are important pollinating plants and make wonderful additions to any garden. The deadline for ordering butterflies is Aug. 1st.

Painted Lady Butterflies are bred in a certified butterfly breeding facility near Peterborough, ON. The perennial plants ordered this summer will be available for planting in the spring. The plants should flower in time for the butterflies and bees in the Spring and Summer of 2025.

The International Butterfly Breeders Association (IBBA) has done thorough research on butterfly releases, demonstrating that these events are safe when done correctly. They state the following:

• Captive butterflies retain their instinct to migrate, so relocation and release will not impact their ability to find resources and migrate during the appropriate season.
• Scientists have no evidence of a negative effect on the gene pool of wild populations after captive-bred butterflies are released.
• Butterflies rarely die in shipping, and the IBBA has a shipping policy that breeders must follow to prevent such a thing from happening.

Butterflies can be purchased at www.huronhospice.ca or by email at reagan.vandewalle@huronhospice.ca or sadie.carter@huronhospice.ca or by phone at 519 525-7352. Again, the deadline for ordering butterflies is Aug. 1st!

PEOPLE ENCOURAGED TO REGISTER FOR TURTLE HATCHLING RELEASE

Huron Stewardship Council (HSC) and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) are joining with other community partners to host the return of the annual Turtle Hatchling Release. The popular event will be held on Thursday, Aug. 29 at Morrison Dam Conservation Area.

Admission is free and people are welcome to drop in at any time during the event which will be held from 1-4 p.m. Donations are encouraged and proceeds will support turtle conservation in Ontario. The event includes live reptiles on display; family-friendly activities; educational displays and more. There will be merchandise for sale as well.

To reserve a spot at the event, visit the Eventbrite link Turtle Hatchling Release.

The turtle release has taken place since 2016 (it was held as a virtual event in 2020 and 2021).

Sheldon Paul is HSC Fieldwork Coordinator. He said the turtle event draws crowds every year and is a great way to educate people of all ages about the need to protect Ontario’s eight turtle species.

“It’s fun, it’s free and we look forward to seeing everyone there,” he said.

Hope Brock is ABCA Healthy Watersheds Technician. She said turtles are important links in food webs and provide essential services. Snapping turtles, for example, help to control aquatic vegetation and clean creeks and wetlands by eating algae and dead and decaying fish and other organisms. They also cycle nutrients and spread seeds which benefit other organisms.

People can protect turtles, she said, by watching for turtles on roads when driving, helping them safely cross roads in the way they are headed, protecting nests from predators, and reporting turtle sightings to community monitoring projects. Enhancing turtle habitat is also vital.

“Preserving and creating habitat for turtles and other species is one of the most important things we can do to sustain our turtle species,” Brock said. “There has been a huge increase in the interest in turtles and protecting turtles in our watershed, so I also want to thank people for these efforts. Thank you for your continued curiosity, for attending this event, and for your desire to help these at-risk animals.”

People attending will not be able to hold the turtles. This is to protect the animals and reduce their stress. Those attending will be able to see the turtles as they are released. The HSC staff releasing the hatchlings are trained and authorized to release them. (Organizers remind the public to never release species, especially non-native species, into the wild).

Ontario’s native freshwater turtles face many threats including habitat loss and road mortality (death by cars and other vehicles). Hundreds of turtles in Ontario are hit by cars each year. These could be gravid (pregnant) females looking for a place to lay eggs, or turtles looking for new habitat and mates. People can help turtles by creating and enhancing habitat on their properties, and working with their local municipalities and communities to erect turtle crossing signs and build safe passages. People can also arrange for transport of injured turtles to the turtle hospital.

To learn more visit the Huron Stewardship Council website, and the ABCA Turtles webpage, or email HSC at huronstewardship@gmail.com.

Morrison Dam Conservation Area, is located at 71108 Morrison Line, east of Exeter.

SUNSET COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

Sunset Community Foundation is pleased to invite residents of Bayfield to an “Open Discovery Session” at the Bayfield Branch Library on July 31st.

The session will be offered from 7-8:30 p.m.

During the Open Discovery Session, attendees will have the chance to share their perspective on topics, including:

• Consider the impact of a Bayfield Community Fund that “Gives for Good, Forever”
• Learn how the Sunset Community Foundation can help establish such a Fund
• Discuss a special focus on the animation of Bayfield’s Arts, Heritage, and Culture scene

Finally, the session will consider setting up a Bayfield Advisory Committee to explore common interests among Bayfield residents, businesses, and potential family legacies with the capacity to exert a lasting impact on quality of life in Bayfield.

This Open Discovery Session gives community members the chance to share their insights, experience and ideas to encourage continued cultural vitality in their community.

All interested individuals are welcome to participate and contribute to this community-building event. To register visit: Bayfield Open Discovery Session.

Bayfield Branch Library located at 18 Bayfield Main St North.

PARTICIPACTION COMMUNITY CHALLENGE

The Municipality of Bluewater Recreation Coordinator, Denver Boertien, recently received a letter regarding the municipality’s participation in the 2024 ParticipACTION Community Challenge. And although the community did not finish on top, Boertien believes they can learn and grow from the experience.

“We did not get selected as a national, provincial or territorial winner,” said Boertien. “However, this was an amazing experience for the first time the community has participated in this challenge. We certainly will be using this momentum for next year!”

In the letter Bluewater was thanked for participating and getting active in the 2024 ParticipACTION Community Challenge.. Throughout June, there were many physical activity initiatives, programs, events and activities happening across the country, including a Special Olympics rowing program, accessible fencing programs, a dodgeball tournament, a nature identification walk, tennis lessons and so much more.

The letter also shared that organizers wanted to acknowledge and recognize Bluewater’s participation as a whole and to encourage the municipality to do so again in 2025. The letter stated that ParticipACTION would like to award Bluewater with a guaranteed grant of at least $1,500 that would be part of next year’s Community Challenge grant program. They will be in touch with Boertien leading up to next year’s grant application dates.

On July 23 ParticipACTION announced Canada’s Most Active Community and the most active community in each remaining province and territory. Hay river, NWT was declared the country’s most active community. They will receive the $100,000 grand prize to support local physical activity and sport initiatives. Timmins, ON was awarded the most activity community in Ontario. According to the ParticipACTION website, more than 1,100 organizations and 1,250 communities participated in the challenge throughout June.

Boertien concluded, “Thanks to everyone for all of your efforts in participating! Stay tuned for any upcoming project, challenges or events that we as a community can come together to do!”

PUBLIC MEETING FOR ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

From time to time, the Council of the Municipality of Bluewater will initiate a Zoning By-law Amendment to update zoning policies for the Municipality. During the Council meeting on May 6, Council directed staff to do just this.

The purpose of the Housekeeping Zoning By-law Amendment (file #Z02-2024) is to update the overall Bluewater Zoning By-law including matters related to zoning by-law administration, buildings, entrances, accessory structures, defined terms and vending from a vehicle, manufactured homes and trailers. In addition, Council will receive two options of the Zoning By-law Amendment text; one with zoning text which outlines new size limits for trailer additions, and the second option with zoning text which prohibits additions to trailers.

The full proposed draft Zoning By-law text can be found on the municipality’s website: Municipal-wide Zoning Bly-law Amendment.

Council of the Corporation of the Municipality of Bluewater will hold a public meeting on Monday, Aug. 12 at 6:30 p.m. in the Stanley Community Centre-Council Chambers, located at 38594 Mill Road in Varna, to consider a proposed zoning by-law amendment under Section 34 of the Planning Act. (Hybrid format is also available.)

Council meetings are being held in person, with electronic attendance options.

Persons wishing to participate in the planning process are strongly encouraged to send their comments, questions, or concerns in writing prior to July 24 via email to the Huron County Planning Department at planning@huroncounty.ca or to the Planning Coordinator, Lindsay Whalen at planninginfo@municipalityofbluewater.ca. For those who wish to attend (in person or electronically), please contact Whalen.

For more information, including information about appeal rights, contact the Municipal office at Municipality of Bluewater, 14 Mill Avenue in Zurich, ON. by calling 519 236-4351 or the Huron County Planning Department by phoning 1-888-524-8394 Ext.3.

TANNER STEFFLER FOUNDATION

The Tanner Steffler Foundation (TSF) is back hosting their annual “Six String Concert” and the “Driving the Stigma Out” Golf Tournament!

The foundation, originating from Seaforth but recently relocated to Clinton, is going on their seventh summer. John and Heather Steffler began the TSF in the fall of 2017 following the passing of their son Tanner, after a long battle with substance use disorder. After Tanner’s passing, others reached out to John and Heather to share their own stories of struggle. As such, the TSF was formed in response to the overwhelming need for mental health and addiction services for youth in the community.

This year, the foundation’s two largest annual fundraisers will be happening just under a month apart. The Six String Concert will be held on July 27 at the Seaforth Agriplex, and this year attendees are going to rock. Leave the country at home and travel back to the 1980s and 90s, with Canada’s premiere KISS cover band “Destroyer” as well as “Rewind The 90’s”. This is an all-ages event and will be lots of fun for the whole family. Those who attend can dig out their acid-wash jean jackets, fishnets and parachute pants and join in a night of nostalgia, good vibes and unforgettable performances.

That same day, July 27, the TSF will be hosting the youth stage at Seaforth Summerfest, highlighting the amazing local talent in Huron and Perth. During the afternoon, beginning at 2 p.m., free entertainment will be showcased at the Seaforth Agriplex and people won’t want to miss a single moment.

As well, organizers invite people to join them on Saturday, Aug. 17 at 10:30 a.m. at the beautiful Goderich Sunset Golf Club for the annual Driving the Stigma Out Golf Tournament. Whether a seasoned pro or a beginner, this event is for everyone. Get ready to tee off, make new friends, and support a great cause. Let’s come together to drive away the stigma surrounding mental health while enjoying a fun day of golf plus a silent auction with prizes from businesses across Huron and Perth. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a difference and have a blast on the green!

Tickets are available as foursomes at $550 before fees ($137.50 per player). Price includes 18 holes of golf for four, golf cart, mid-day lunch, silent auction, special prizes, steak dinner and a swag bag for each player.

As Tanner Steffler Foundation’s largest annual fundraisers, all proceeds from the Six Strings Concert and the golf tournament will directly benefit the youth and families of Huron and Perth County, and allow the foundation to deliver mental health and addiction programming that supports local communities year-round.

Follow TSF on Instagram and Facebook to stay informed on new updates for both these events.

BLUE FLAG

The Village of Bayfield Marina and Municipality of Bluewater are excited to have received the Blue Flag certification operated by Swim Drink Fish for sustainable practices for the last 15 years!

The Blue Flag is an internationally recognized award for marinas that meet the strict criteria under four categories: Environmental Education & Information, Safety and Services, Water Quality, and Environmental Management.

Every year as part of the Blue Flag program, the Municipality hosts three free community activities. These activities are to raise awareness for the Blue Flag program, and to promote and educate the community on swimmable, drinkable, fishable water. The municipality and community partners invite people to join any of the free 2024 Blue Flag community activities being held this summer. The first event “Painting with Plants” was held on July 18. There are two more events upcoming:

• Litter Clean Up – Love Your Greats Day is set for Saturday, Aug. 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. starting from the Bayfield Marine Store located at 20 Fisherman’s Wharf Road in the village. The clean up is hosted in partnership with the Village of Bayfield Marina, the Marine Store, Love Your Greats and Ocean Wise.
• A “Dark Sky” event will be held on Monday, Aug. 12, 9:30-11:30 p.m. A rain date has been set for Tuesday, Aug. 13th (same times). Weather and viewing conditions permitting this event will take place at the Bayfield South Pier, 47 Long Hill Road in the village. Those who wish to take part are asked to Register Online if the event is canceled. Pets should not attend for safety reasons. This event is hosted in partnership with West Coast Astronomers.

More info about the above activities and Blue Flag can be found on the Municipality of Bluewater website: Blue Flag Events.

The program wouldn’t be possible without valuable efforts made by individuals and organizations who have teamed up and contributed towards earning and maintaining this prestigious award.

Check out the complete list of nationally awarded 2024 Blue Flag marinas and beaches here: www.swimdrinkfish.ca.

SOUTH HURON CLINIC

The South Huron Medical Centre Walk-in Clinic is open on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays (except for Christmas Day) from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration opens at 10:45 a.m. and closes at 1:45 p.m. or earlier if capacity is reached.

No appointment is needed. Please bring your health card.

The South Huron Medical Centre is located at 23 Huron Street West in Exeter, ON.

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.

This week, we take a closer look at one of the sea-faring artifacts the Museum has in its collection…

SHIP’S WHEEL

This is a small ship wheel crafted around 1880. There is a metal plate with four screw holes attached to a wooden neck that is attached to a metal wheel frame. There are five spokes that end with wooden handles.

This ship wheel was used by Captain William MacDonald and later Captain Peter “Paddy” MacDonald as shipbuilders in the Goderich area.

Captain William was a shipbuilder who originally built small fishing vessels for local mariners in Goderich and along the shoreline. Later he worked at the Marlton Yards, Goderich, building ships.

Captain William’s son, Peter, was introduced to shipbuilding as an apprentice at Marlton Yards and inherited his father’s tool chest. Later, Peter, as a skipper on the tug “Dorothy May”, lost the tool chest and its contents overboard as the vessel struck rocks on a stormy night as the tug attempted to enter Kincardine Harbour. That same tool chest, and some of the original contents, washed up within the next few days along the beaches. Peter later became a long-term Captain for the tug “William Forrest”. The William Forrest was owned by ‘Big’ Bill Forrest and his partner Bill Bermingham (marine contractors who constructed the Goderich Harbour breakwalls between 1904 and 1908). Captain Peter piloted the “William Forrest” as it towed the top-heavy Forrest dredge between Chicago and Montreal for many years in the summer months at a speed of three nautical miles per hour. Peter retired at age 84, in 1960, from his own tug, the “Ivy Ros

PIONEER PARK ASSOCIATION

TWO HUNDRED VOLUNTEERS UNITE FOR SINGLE CAUSE

PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

The dust has settled, donated treasures have found new homes, volunteers are catching their breath, and most importantly, the coffers of the Pioneer Park Association are much richer thanks to the generosity and goodwill of an entire community. The 75th annual Pioneer Park Rummage Sale and Silent Auction, held on Friday, July 12, at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena, was a resounding success, and while the expenses are still dribbling in, it is safe to say it was an excellent year, perhaps the best ever!

This would not have been possible without the businesses who donated goods, services and space to hold the event, the hours of volunteer time dedicated to creating this event each year, and of course, the generous donations and enthusiastic participation from the community.

This week organizers share a list of individuals and businesses they would like to thank as their extra efforts helped to guarantee a successful event:

• Jessica Thornton who volunteered her time and talent to design the advertising material; the posters and postcards that helped raise the profile of the event.
• Meredith Needles who used these images, on top of others, to get the message out through social media.
• The Reder family again donated one of their Quonset huts so there was a central location large enough to hold and sort all of the donations that came in over four weeks. This makes the job so much more efficient.
• Bayfield Foodland generously donated hotdogs, buns, condiments and pop for the event itself.
• The LCBO saved and provided the boxes necessary for sorting and transport.
• Sandy Scotchmer was, as always, a tremendous support at the arena ensuring the organizers had access to everything they needed.
• The Bayfield Agricultural Society offered their outdoor space and the tables necessary to display the goods.
• The Bayfield Lions’ Club provided all season storage and space for set up.
• Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity were able to take the items that were unsold ensuring they will find a good home and not end up in landfill.
• Pattie MacDonald, Carl and Karen Humphries are real pros and spent weeks evaluating a large variety of the items and gathering gift certificates from local retailers and community members. Their efforts make the Silent Auction so successful. It remains the largest “team table” to the funds raised.
• Team Rummage, headed by Catherine Tillmann, is composed of both seasoned and new members, bringing a freshness of ideas combined with knowledge and experience. It is the team that keeps all the balls in the air.
• A special thank you to Melody Falconer- Pounder and the Bayfield Breeze for tremendous support publishing articles and covering the event.

The organizers took a count of the volunteers, and they were so grateful that over 200 people dedicated hours of personal time before and at the event! Thank you!

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.

Growing up in rural Ontario I really don’t mind a power outage. During one of those big snowstorms back in the 70s I remember we were without power for several days. My parents and grandmother were of the generation that knew how to cope, although with a barn full of dairy cows I’m sure there were plenty of challenges to deal with. Challenges that I was pretty oblivious to as a kid just having fun cooking toast with an old fashioned toaster on the ancient wood cookstove my grandmother still used for heat – it was like being at camp!

The Black Out that happened on Aug. 14, 2003 is another stand out. It is hard to believe that it was over 20 years ago now that more than 50 million people in Ontario and the northeastern United States experienced the largest power outage in the history of North America.

At that time we were the owners of a local accommodation and were filled with guests at the height of Bayfield’s summer tourist season. Luckily our guests were very understanding and also treated it like being at camp. Most of them even got quite a chuckle when we presented them with pails to get water from the pool to use to flush their toilets. One of our staff members got creative with the buckets decorating them with “I survived the blackout of 2003” and some visitors chose to take theirs home as souvenirs!

You might ask why I am waxing nostalgic on the lack of power today? Well last night just when I was about to sit down at the computer to work with my publisher to put the finishing touches on Issue 785 – the power at the farm and surrounding area went out. Hydro One’s map noted that it would be back on by 8:15 p.m. – a little under three hours – so I didn’t panic. But when the suggested time moved to midnight it was time to come up with a plan to get this week’s issue out! Just as we were beginning the steps necessary to fire up the gas generator in an attempt to get the Wifi going at the very least – the lights came back on! And for that I am thankful after all sometimes camping can be overrated. – Melody