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Sue Burton explains the proper way to approach an intersection to Hope Wilson, 6, a Bayfield summer resident, during the Bayfield Optimist Club Bike Rodeo held at the Bayfield Arena on July 2. (Photos by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
William Samuell, of Bayfield, works his way through the course set out for the annual Bike Rodeo organized by members of the Optimist Club of Bayfield. Optimist Heidi Martin keeps track of his progress.
Optimists promote cycling safety
Hope Wilson navigates one of several tests laid out on the arena floor as part of the Bike Rodeo.
James Wilson, 11, a Bayfield summer resident, demonstrates his hand signals during the Bike Rodeo.
Bayfield's Main Beach among top five on great lakes
BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
Blue Flag recognition is helping Bayfield’s Main Beach get the attention it deserves. An article published this week reflects what locals have known for years - that Bayfield’s beach is among the very best.
An article written by Laura Bly and published in a recent issue of USA Today shows Bayfield to be one of the top five beaches on the Great Lakes and the only Canadian beach featured.
Stephen P. Leatherman, a Florida International University professor and coastal expert, made the determinations. Leatherman is also referred to as Dr. Beach.
Every year, Leatherman, releases his list of Top 10 U.S. Beaches located along the east and west coasts of the country. This year, he is starting a new tradition: a list of recommendations for beaches along the Great Lakes. Coastal communities were asked to complete a survey and submit sand samples and 30 communities did so. He assessed overall beach quality based on 60 freshwater criteria including, sand and water cleanliness, safety, environmental quality and management. Leatherman conducted the judging with input by Michigan State University’s aquatics expert, Erin Dreelin.
The top five Great Lake beaches were determined to be:
1. Sleeping Bear Dunes, National Lakeshore, Lake Michigan, MI
2. Presque Isle State Park, Lake Erie, PA
3. Sand Point Beach, Pictured Rock National Lakeshore, Lake Superior, MI
4. Bayfield Main Beach, Lake Huron, ON, Canada
5. Oak Street Beach, Lake Michigan, Chicago, IL
In the article, Dr. Beach does admit to never having visited Bayfield but perhaps his findings might encourage him to do so in the future. To see the article in its entirety or to find a link to Dr. Beach’s website visit: http://travel.usatoday.com/
even libraries need friends
What does a library mean to you?
This is a question being put to the public by a newly formed community based group known as, Friends of the Bayfield Library (FOBL).
One person commented, “The Bayfield Library is a hub of our community. It is quaint - reflecting a historical town yet up-to-date with access to computer technology. It is quiet on a snowy winter day curled up in the high back chair reading a new magazine. It is noisy on a warm summer day when full of happy and busy children taking out their books.”
FOBL believes that libraries play an integral role in people’s lives. The Bayfield Library is a very busy gathering spot. All libraries need friends. Thus the FOBL has been created to support the Bayfield Library with the specific aim of promoting the Bayfield Library as an essential element to the community’s quality of life. As enthusiastic supporters of the Bayfield Library, FOBL intends to enhance the profile of the Bayfield library in the community and to advocate for the enhancement of library services and programs.
Despite its diminutive size, the Bayfield Library is one of the most heavily used branches of the Huron County Library system, particularly during the summer months when extended hours are needed. Top of the immediate agenda for FOBL is to take part in the discussions for a new library in Bayfield.
According to Roma Harris, who chairs FOBL, “We love the old library but it is too small to meet the demands of our growing community. There is little room to sit and there is nowhere to offer programs. We are excited about the plans for a new library on Main Street that will take the village’s heritage into account, while providing the necessary space for collections and the programs for people of all ages that a community should expect in a contemporary public library.”
FOBL also expects to organize activities and events to promote Bayfield Library’s important role in sustaining the educational, recreational and cultural life of our community. Libraries make a difference and so can people in the community. If you are interested in sharing a story about what a library means to you or becoming a FOBL member, please contact the group at friendsofbayfieldlibrary@hotmail.ca
Judges for Communities in Bloom to visit in two weeks
For the second consecutive year, the Municipality of Bluewater is proud to be a part of the Provincial Communities in Bloom Program competition. There are new dates for the judges’ visit. They will be coming to Bluewater July 20-22.
Last year, the Municipality of Bluewater printed a pamphlet that explains the program. This highly recognized program is not just about floral displays. It promotes environmental responsibility and beautification through community participation and friendly competition!
The judging criteria is based on eight categories:
• Tidiness
• Environmental Awareness
• Community Involvement
• Natural and Cultural Heritage
• Tree/Urban Forest Management
• Landscaped Areas
• Floral Displays
• Turf and Groundcovers
The color scheme for this year’s “Bluewater Blooms” is red, purple, pink and blue. People will notice these colors in planters on the streets of Hensall, Zurich and Bayfield.
raising funds through fitness and art for mammography unit
Bayfield will be the place to run, walk, cycle or purchase art in support of a full-field digital mammography unit for Huron County on Oct. 1.
Although most people aren’t thinking of things to do in the fall with summer just beginning but now is the time to mark calendars for what is sure to be an amazing day of events held in an effort to raise a minimum of $10,000 toward the cause.
In fact the event is so big this article is the first of a series describing what will be happening at the Festival of Fitness and Art in Bayfield. This week we learn about the Bayfield Cross Country Classic, open to runners and walkers of all ages.
There will be two courses open to people depending on their fitness level. The event will begin at 11 a.m. with registration check-in being held from 9-10:30 a.m. Runners interested in their time will require watches.
The 8 km Course begins in the village and enters the Woodland Trail before returning to the village. The Woodland Trail passes through mixed forest and meadows and offers a variety of terrain on earthen paths. Medals will be awarded to first place finishers in a variety of age categories, both female and male.
The 3 km Course is designed for those people wishing to participate while avoiding a more strenuous run through the trail. The course is within the village on flat paved roads.
Walkers can opt for either the 8 km or 3 km course.
Participants who register in advance will pay a fee of $20. This fee increases to $25 on the day of the event. Youth under the age of 16 can register anytime for $10. Registration forms are available online at www.amghfoundation.ca/festival.php
This portion of the festival is sponsored by Virtual High School and sanctioned by Ontario Masters.
time is now to nominate a terrific tree
The quest is now on to discover the great trees of Bluewater. As part of the Bluewater Blooms, Communities in Bloom initiative people are being encouraged to join in the Great Tree Hunt and nominate a heritage or native tree in the municipality for recognition.
A Heritage Tree is considered to be a specimen of note, a part of a generation of photographs or associated with an historic person or community landmark. Or nominate a Native Tree, remarkable specimens of the Tulip Tree, Silver Maple or Red Oak varieties are but examples.
The Great Tree Hunt is running from now until Aug. 12. The winning trees will be researched and recognized in a future publication.
For entry forms, contact thyra.knudsen@gmail.com or www.town.bluewater.on.ca
individuals seek others interested in photography
Photography is a passion best enjoyed when work can be shared with others and a talent best improved when surrounded by like-minded individuals. For these reasons some local photographers are exploring the idea of establishing a photography club in Bayfield.
“There are obviously a large number of good, and even great, photographers here and we could all benefit from each other’s skills and talents, share interesting photos, set up challenges and hold workshops; whatever such a group might want to do,” said Jack Pal.
Anyone who might like to join a local photography club and/or anyone with insights on how one might be best established here are invited to contact Jack Pal or Gary Lloyd-Rees.
Blooms for Canada Day
The Bayfield and Area Horticultural Society (BAHS) recently purchased and planted four new planters to beautify the entrance to the Bayfield Community Centre on Jane Street. The Municipality of Bluewater helped out by offloading these aggregate containers and getting them arranged on the ground. The municipality employees will also be keeping them watered. Members of the BAHS planned for and purchased the containers and material. The flowers were planted just in time for Canada Day due to the efforts of (l-r): Sue van Baardwick and Leigh Selk. (Submitted photo)
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bayfield library
A new library for Bayfield, combined with public washrooms as well as post office box access, has been a dream of village residents for a number of years. This dream draws one step closer to reality on July 9th when a public meeting to unveil the proposed design of the new Bayfield Library will be held.
The proposed plans for the new library to be located on the village’s Main Street will be available for viewing starting at 10 a.m. at the Bayfield Community Centre.
The Municipality of Bluewater will be hosting the meeting.
vettefest
If everywhere you look this weekend you think you see a Corvette, don’t worry you’re not experiencing delusions – it’s Bayfield Vettefest and Corvette enthusiasts from far and near will be descending on the village starting on July 8th for a Summer Night Cruise.
Participants in the Summer Night Cruise are asked to gather at Clan Gregor Square at 7 p.m. to head out on a little road trip.
Registration for the car show to be held in Clan Gregor Square on July 9th will begin at 8 a.m. in the park. Those who take part are invited to park their cars for display in the square.
firemen's breakfast
The firefighters in our village will be up bright and early on July 9th to prepare for their annual Firemen’s Breakfast which will have people lining up for the 7 a.m. start of food service at the Bayfield Fire Hall.
And who wouldn’t line up for pancakes with real maple syrup, eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, toast and juice, plus let’s not forget the Tim Horton’s coffee, generously donated by the Tim Horton’s of Exeter.
The cost for the breakfast is adults, $7; and children, $4. The event will conclude at 11 a.m.
Exhibition Opens
Every square foot of Clan Gregor will be appreciated in an upcoming gallery exhibition at JMR Art Gallery on Main Street in the village.
The “Clan Gregor Square Foot Show” opens this Friday July 8, in honor of the popular park, often referred to as the heart of the village. The history of the square will be on display along with park inspired 12” x 12” original artworks by Ontario artists.
All are encouraged to drop by for the Friday evening reception. The show will be on display until July 20.
Anglican Church
July 10 is the date set for the Parish Picnic for Trinity Anglican Church, Bayfield and St. James, Middleton and therefore service time and locations are not the norm.
Trinity Anglican Church will offer their 8 a.m. church service on that date but Trinity’s 9:30 a.m. service and the 11 a.m. service at St. James will be combined and instead, a combined Parish Picnic Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the pavilion on Pavilion Beach Road, just 5 KM South of Bayfield. Following the service, a picnic will be held. Participants are asked to bring a potluck dish to share, their own lawn chair, plates, cutlery and beverage.
pioneer Park
The annual Pioneer Park Rummage Sale doesn’t happen over night, organizing this large fundraiser which benefits beautiful Pioneer Park takes a lot of time and planning, as well as the generosity of the community in donating gently used items to sell.
The organizers are looking for unique, nearly new, antique or quality cast offs for the 64th annual sale to be held on July 8 from 7-9 p.m. in the Bayfield Arena.
Anyone requiring an early drop off of items can contact Terry at 519 565-2972 or Bud at 519 565-5322, otherwise items can be dropped off at the arena on July 7-8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The following items cannot be accepted: clothing, shoes, magazines, encyclopedias, large appliances, building materials, mattresses, soiled or broken items. Please note that baby furniture, sports equipment and electrical items must be approved by the CSA.
Organizers note that several wonderful items have also been collected for the Silent Auction – so go prepared to bid!
General inquiries about the event, including, volunteer information can be directed to Julie at 519 824-0141.
town hall
Miss Caledonia, a comedy written and performed by Melody A. Johnson is coming to the Bayfield Town Hall on the evening of July 9.
Johnson tells the story of farm girl, Peggy Ann Douglas’ quest for stardom. The tale is set in 1950s Ontario when the most proven route to Hollywood was to enter as many pageants as possible. Brimming with love, comedy and a staggering work ethic the production is a delightful exploration of optimism and reality down on the farm.
The 8 p.m. performance is a fundraiser for the ongoing upkeep of the Bayfield Town Hall by the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society.
Tickets are $35 each. A cash bar will be available and complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served. Tickets are available from Jane Rowat, 519 565-5838; Ernie King Music in Goderich, 519 524-4689 or at ticketscene.ca
The evening is sponsored by OLG.
books and brunch
Book lovers will want to mark the following dates on their calendars so as not to miss every chance to meet and greet several talented authors.
A book signing with a Huron County author is set for July 9 from 1-3 p.m. at the The Village Bookshop. Kim Burgsma, author of “Almost Eden” will be on hand to sign copies of her book.
And finally, on Aug. 21 The Little Inn of Bayfield will play host to a Books and Brunch with Alissa York starting at 12:30 p.m. Tickets for this event are $30. They can be purchased at The Village Bookshop, 20 Catherine St. or by calling 519 565-5600 or emailing mbrown@thevillagebookshop.com
Optimist club
July 9 is the date for the Bayfield Optimist Club’s annual Play Day extravaganza. This day of good old-fashioned fun for the children will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the lawn beside the Bayfield Fire Hall.
Magician Daniel Steep, of Clinton, is scheduled to perform and a talented face painting clown will also offer her skills to shiny faced youngsters. Fire truck tours, games and crafts are also on the docket.
All this frivolity is sure to create an appetite – hotdogs will be served up hot from the barbecue.
This is a free event. Members of the Bayfield Optimist Club, who are proud to have the mandate, Friends of Youth, are the organizers.
concert series
Summer is here and there is no better time to kick back and enjoy the music.
One of the performers who played on Parliament Hill for Canada Day in the presence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will soon grace the stage at the Bayfield Town Hall. Jenn Grant, with opening act, Wsg, will be featured on July 14 as part of the Bayfield Concert Series
The concert will be held in the Bayfield Town Hall with the doors opening at 8 p.m. and the show starting at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 each and are available now at www.ticketscene.ca
Sadly for those yet to get tickets, Ron Sexsmith’s Summer Show to be held on July 22 is now sold out.
Movies in the Park
Long-time residents have often talked fondly of going to Pioneer Park for a movie night on a warm summer’s eve and this year the tradition is returning.
For two Saturdays in July as dusk settles over this lakeside park a film will be shown under the stars. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to cuddle up and watch Tangled, on July 16 and Despicable Me on July 30.
Presbyterian Church
The fish will be frying on July 30th when the congregation of Knox Presbyterian Church holds their first annual Fish Fry at the Bayfield Community Centre.
The meal will be served from 4:30-7 p.m. Two salads, tomatoes, rolls, and a baked potato are sure to compliment the Lake Huron white fish. Delectable homemade desserts will finish things off nicely.
Tickets are $17 for adults; and $10 for children 11 years and under. Take-out will also be available. For tickets please call 519 565-2435, or email ggrant@tcc.on.ca, or consult any member of the Knox Church congregation.
diners' club
Anyone who is 55+ years of age is invited to join the members of the Bayfield Diners’ Club for their weekly Thursday lunches. Newcomers and summer residents are most welcome to join in the meal.
The meals are served at noon at the Bayfield Community Centre. The cost for the lunch is $8 per person. Anyone who wishes to enjoy the meal but cannot make it to the community centre is invited to order a take-out lunch.
Participants should call Betty Brodhagan at 519 565-4123 on the Monday prior to the Thursday lunch to inform organizers of their intention to attend or not to attend the luncheon.
The Bayfield Diners’ Club is also looking volunteers to assist in the kitchen for the summer months. Anyone who can donate two hours of their Thursday morning to help prepare or serve the lunch would be most welcome and should contact Brodhagen at the number listed above.
bridge club
Pat Wolfe and Roy Price were the high scorers when the Wednesday Evening Bridge Club met on June 22 at the Bayfield Lions’ Community Building.
The club will meet next on July 6. The cards will be dealt starting at 7 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
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