The Port of Goderich, one of Ontario’s most essential shipping hubs, is pursuing a $50 million expansion to meet rising demand and increase its economic impact across Huron County.
The first phase of expansion, completed in 2020, added four acres to create a new dock, now used for aggregate handling. Aggregates are shipped from Bruce Mines in northern Ontario to Goderich, where they are trucked to support highway construction projects across southwestern Ontario.
“I am personally fielding calls on a weekly basis for use of additional space that we just don't have here,” Frank Hurkmans, President of the GPMC, which manages the town-owned port, emphasized the demand driving the project.
The next phase of development includes an additional 11 shovel-ready acres, with $10 million already secured through private investment.
The remaining $40 million will depend on funding from federal and provincial governments—funding that the Goderich Port Management Corporation (GPMC) is actively lobbying to secure.
“The port is a huge economic driver within Huron County, especially for our agricultural sector,” Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of Huron Chamber of Commerce, underscored the port’s economic importance to the wider region.
“Hundreds of thousands of tons of grain are shipped overseas from Goderich each year, supporting our local farmers and contributing to the regional economy. This expansion will strengthen the port’s ability to serve the community’s growing needs.”
Operating at near-full capacity, the Port of Goderich CONTINUE TO PAGE 5
Race Huron celebrates 10th edition of The Bad Thing
KATHLEEN SMITH Editor
Race Huron is a non-profit organization that raises funds for the Maitland Trail Association, and last weekend celebrated its 10th edition of The Bad Thing trail race.
“Year 10 was our big milestone this year,” said Dr. Tricia Denunzio, Race Huron.
“Our race sells out within minutes of registration. Our race sets us apart because it’s one of the only point-topoint trail races in Ontario.”
Many of Race Huron’s members volunteered for the event that drew upwards of 500 runners for the two-day event.
On Friday, October 25 Race Huron hosted The Night Thing, where the 200 registrants could sign up for either a 7-km or 12-km run through the dark.
On Saturday, October 26 a total of 150 registered in both the 25-km and 50-km races for a total of 300 runners.
The 50-km runners cross the Maitland River twice –once in Goderich and again in Auburn. The 25-km and
Race Huron celebrates 10th edition
The Night Thing runners cross once at the end of their race in Auburn.
Mystery Start for the 50-km was at the Historic Gaol, and the 25-km at generous landowners Maaskant property. Race Huron is grateful for the 100 volunteers that helped make the race happen. All runners were bussed to the start line.
Following the race, the runners and volunteers left with a cool swag bag. Racers also enjoyed a live band, hot meal catered by Pine Ridge and a beer garden by Square Brew, and East Street Cider for those who don’t drink beer.
Local sponsors also helped make the event happen, most notably the platinum sponsor The Run Parlour out of Clinton, who also offered coaching to prepare for the race. The Run Parlour offered discounts on gear for the racers, ran run clinics, coached many of the runners, donated money and prizes for the race.
Next year’s race will be October 25 and October 26, 2025.
279 SUNCOAST DR. E., GODERICH ONT. N7A 4H8 (1983) LTD.
Business Phone: 519-524-2855 Fax No: 519-524-7439 Toll Free:1-800-265-5177 Email: hojerry83@hojerry83.on.ca
(ERIN GRANDMAISON PHOTOS)
Above: Shelley Saunders and Andrew Kaastra of Clinton crossing the finish of the 25-km race.
Top right: Alexandra Poelman and Zach Drost of Bayfield took part in the 25-km race.
Right: Leo Day of Goderich finishing The Night Thing. Bottom right: Myra Steenstra and Leslie Love of Goderich.
Local heart failure program recognized by province-wide awards
CONNOR LUCZKA
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Local residents can rest assured that their cardiac concerns are in good hands.
The Huron Perth and Area Ontario Health Team (HPA-OHT)’s heart failure program has been named one of three finalists in the Improved Population Health category of the 2024 Ontario Health System Quality and Innovation Awards.
Although the program did not win the award when the ceremony was held in Toronto in September, to be recognized above other, bigger programs is a feather in the team’s cap, according to Dr. Shanil Narayan.
“Whenever you hear you're one of the best in the province, I think that's reassuring,” Narayan, a Stratford-based physician, said.
Narayan is the physician lead for the heart failure program. He has been a physician in the Huron-Perth area for about 20 years now, helping people with cardiac function issues for that time. His leadership role has developed over the last three to four years.
The Ontario Health System Quality and
Innovation Awards celebrate the work being done across the province to address evolving healthcare challenges. The Improved Population Health category, which the local heart failure program was recognized by, honours initiatives that demonstrate measurable success in improving health outcomes for specific communities.
“We've been increasingly hearing good things about what our region has been doing over the last little while,” Narayan went on to say. “We, as of a few years ago, were one of the first few people to be recognized as an outstanding group in heart function care, and so there were pilot projects launched in our area to try and figure out how to better work on cardiac rehabilitation. We were one of a few regions that received extra funding from the ministry to develop networks to look after heart function care in the last few years.”
Narayan called this award “the cherry on top” of what the team has been hearing from the community and from the wider healthcare network. He said that the award is something people can look to, but it is representative of the consistent hard work and outstanding care the team puts out.
“I'm super proud of our region to be
Letter
A time to reflect
As Remembrance Day approaches, we are called to reflect on the profound sacrifices made by those who served our country in times of war and peace.
This day is a solemn reminder of the bravery, commitment, and selflessness of our veterans, as well as those currently serving in the military.
It is our duty to ensure that their contributions are never
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high,” Narayan said. “I always tell people that Huron-Perth and area punches above its weight class consistently. And I think one of the things that small communities do better than most is establish and leverage relationships.
“You hear stories about family medicine burnout, and it's true, but there are still people fighting hard every day to do good things. We talk about primary care alternatives, and we know that there are some excellent nurse practitioners who work with us. We talk about people who are again struggling because of workload, but consistently when we get to these groups, we have young, enthusiastic people working in our emergency EMS pathways who put their hands up time and time again and say, ‘Hey, can we help?’ We have nurses working in long-term care facilities who consistently say, ‘Hey, what can we do to help this be better?’ … Those day-to-day relationships are consistent stories.”
Narayan said that the silent heroes that work and do great things everyday are key to the team’s success, as is the population they serve as well. Having an appreciative patient population that “works wonders” to give feedback that fuels their caregivers is
to the Editor
forgotten, and that the freedoms we enjoy today are never taken for granted.
On November 11, we will honor these men and women with a parade that begins at 10:45 a.m. at the Goderich Legion. From there, we will march to the cenotaph located on the square in Goderich for a remembrance ceremony at 11 a.m.
This gathering is more than a tradition—it is an opportunity for us to collectively remember and pay tribute to the countless individuals who gave their lives in service to our nation.
This year we also recognize a milestone in that the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) celebrates its 100th anniversary, it’s vital to reflect on its significant contributions to Canada and the world.
Established in 1924, the RCAF has played a crucial role in national defense, international peacekeeping, and community engagement.
something Narayan highlighted. He specifically praised the team’s respiratory therapists and nurse practitioners with cardiac training, who have been particularly helpful in sharing their skills and knowledge with patients, building the team’s capacity.
Since 2019, regions of care have been divided into Ontario health teams: regional coalitions of organizations that come together to deliver care and coordinate resources for the population. Within the team there are physicians, nurses, community support specialists, and people from across the breadth of healthcare.
The team has not formally celebrated yet, having members across the region’s area and members that work in various capacities, but Narayan said that there will be a celebration soon.
"We are proud to be recognized for our collaborative and integrated approach," said Joelle Lamport Lewis, director of HPA-OHT, in a media release. "This acknowledgment reflects the hard work and commitment of our healthcare professionals and partner organizations who come together to provide the best possible care for our communities."
This centennial is not just a remembrance of past achievements; it’s an opportunity to honor the bravery of those who served and recognize the RCAF's impact on Canada’s identity. It fosters a sense of national pride and unity while inspiring future generations to pursue careers in aviation and defense.
We encourage all members and their families as well as anyone in our community to participate in this important event of remembrance.
Your presence helps to keep the memories of our fallen heroes alive and shows our gratitude to all those who have and are serving today.
Please join us in showing our respect and in continuing the legacy of remembrance.
Lest we forget.
Randy Carroll
Goderich Legion Branch 109 President Goderich
Goderich Sun
Beautiful skies
Port of Goderich expansion urgently needed to meet growing demand
ranks as Ontario’s third largest by volume and is among Canada’s top 10.
With expanded space, the port could support container, liquid load, and large component shipping and potentially play a role in Bruce Power’s supply chain logistics.
“This shovel-ready expansion will al-
low us to meet Ontario’s supply chain demands and accommodate growing interest from industries across the region,” adds Hurkmans.
“With the right support, the Port of Goderich will solidify its role as an essential link in Ontario’s trade and transport infrastructure.”
LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
Aurora Borealis over Huron County near Seaforth, on October 10. The K-Index was reported to be an eight (scale goes from one to nine), with five and above considered a solar storm.
(SPENCER WYNN PHOTO)
Huron Chamber to facilitate November Town of Goderich Strategic Action Plan
The Huron Chamber of Commerce is once again proud to facilitate the upcoming Town of Goderich Strategic Action Plan Community Town Hall information session.
Scheduled for Wednesday, November 27 from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at the Huron County Museum Auditorium, the session invites residents to engage directly with Town Council to share feedback and help shape the future of Goderich.
The Chamber previously hosted the town hall in May, and it was a resounding success, offering a valuable opportunity for the community to connect with Town Council and provide input on the Strategic Action Plan (2023-2027). This plan is the town’s guiding document for sustainable growth and progress.
Colin Carmichael, Executive Director of the Huron Chamber of Commerce, will once again moderate the session, ensuring a focused and inclusive discussion.
With extensive experience in local governance and community advocacy, Colin will help guide the conservation in a constructive direction, allowing for all points of view to be heard.
As an impartial third-party facilitator, the Chamber ensures a neutral platform for residents to freely express their views, reinforcing its role in fostering transparent and balanced dialogue between the community and its elected leaders.
The Chamber will continue to provide its support in the following ways:
• Independent Facilitation: Creating a
fair and balanced environment for open dialogue between residents and Town Council
• Session Moderation: Colin Carmichael will lead the discussion, keeping it productive and on-topic
• Encouraging Constructive Feedback: Ensuring that community suggestions contribute positively to the Strategic Action Plan’s refinement
While this town hall focuses on the Town of Goderich, the Chamber remains dedicated to supporting similar initiatives throughout the municipalities within the boundary, which include much of Huron County.
The Chamber strives to provide the same level of engagement and advocacy for all communities, recognizing that lo -
cal collaboration is essential to the success of the region.
This town hall provides a key opportunity for residents to influence the ongoing implementation of the Strategic Action Plan.
All Town Council members will be present, listening to public input on the plan’s objectives.
This session will focus on strategic goals, rather than operational concerns, maintaining a clear focus on long-term priorities.
The Chamber appreciates the Town Council’s commitment to this process, and encourages all community members to join on November 27 to help shape a Goderich that reflects aspirations and values of its residents.
New program aimed at helping food and beverage entrepreneurs is now available
The Huron Business Centre, a service area of the County of Huron’s Economic Development Department, is now offering a free program to food and beverage entrepreneurs in Huron County known as the Foodpreneur Advantage Program.
The Foodpreneur Advantage Program is for individuals looking to start or expand a food or beverage manufacturing business producing consumer packaged goods (CPG). The program provides introductory workshops, specifically aimed at food-related businesses, to help them navigate getting started or expanding into new product lines.
The first series of workshops will begin in November 2024 and subsequent programs will be offered again in January, April, August, and November 2025.
“Huron County is a provincial leader in primary agriculture production,” said
Vicky Lass, Director of Economic Development for the County of Huron.
“Foodpreneur Advantage offers the opportunity for producers to explore how to add value to those products. It is also great for any culinary creative to get their unique product, perfected and packaged, and onto store shelves.”
The first six-part webinar series includes:
• November 7: Starting a Food Business and Regulatory Compliance
• November 14: How to Sell Your Food Product
• November 21: Costing and Pricing to Make Profits
• November 28: Marketing and Branding Your Food Product
• December 5: Labelling and Packaging Your Food Product
• December 12: Selling to Food Retail-
ers
All sessions will be held virtually for one-hour on Thursdays at 10 a.m.
Anyone interested must sign up for each session individually.
The Foodpreneur Advantage Program was developed in 2021 and is delivered through a local delivery partnership of 14 Small Business Enterprise Centres (SBECs), such as the Huron Business Centre.
“We are thrilled to be able to work with other regional partners to offer this program to the local food and beverage industry,” said Brittany Wise, Manager of the Huron Business Centre.
“We look forward to continuing to support aspiring and existing entrepreneurs as they start, grow, and transition their businesses.”
The Huron Business Centre encour-
ages individuals to explore the Foodpreneur Advantage seminars and programs and to connect with additional support including:
• Complimentary one-on-one business advisory services with experienced local advisors
• Connection to additional tools and resources needed to start or expand your business
• The opportunity to participate in other local programs including the Starter Company Plus program
• Business training workshops and events to inspire, educate, and connect business owners within the local community
For more information about the Foodpreneur Advantage Program or the Huron Business Centre, please visit www. HuronCounty.ca/economic-development
Gateway hosts BRAVE-F screening for Brussels Volunteer Firefighters
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) proudly held another screening event for the Benefitting Rural Area Volunteer Emergency Firefighters (BRAVE-F) project on October 16 in Brussels.
In honour of local, dedicated firefighters, Gateway has established the BRAVE-F initiative to promote and support the well-being of first responders. This vital program offers free medical screening as well as education of cardiovascular health for rural, volunteer firefighters in the Huron-Perth-Grey-Bruce counties.
The educational session was delivered to the group by retired Registered Nurse Michele Melady-Young, who provided valuable insights to elevate the participants’
knowledge and awareness of their overall health.
Gateway extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Brussels Fire Department for their enthusiastic participation in this preliminary screening.
BRAVE-F aims to create meaningful and lasting differences in the lives of volunteer firefighters in rural communities.
Gateway would like to acknowledge the local volunteer nurses from Huron County, whose expertise was instrumental in conducting the screening and supporting Gateway’s mission.
For more information about BRAVE-F or Gateway’s other projects, please contact info@gatewayruralhealth.ca or visit the website: https://www.gatewayruralhealth.ca/
Annual dementia education night with Dr. Sandra Black County receives $50,000 donation towards affordable housing development
The County of Huron would like to express its sincere gratitude to the Lucknow and District Kinsmen for donating $50,000 toward the Gibbons Street Affordable Housing Development.
“The Lucknow and District Kinsmen are highly active volunteers in our community, regularly supporting local initiatives through their popular and entertaining fundraising events,” said Huron County Warden, Glen McNeil.
“We are tremendously grateful for their generous donation. It will have a significant impact in our community.”
The County of Huron is committed to developing additional affordable and supportive housing units.
The Gibbons Street development, a 40-unit apartment building currently under construction in Goderich, is part of a comprehensive housing strategy aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by smaller communities.
The development is on track for comple -
tion by late 2025 or early 2026.
“The goal of KinCanada is to serve the community’s greatest needs,” said Joe Carter, of the Lucknow and District Kinsmen.
“We have identified that the Gibbons Street Affordable Housing Development is one of those needs. Thank you to all the patrons and volunteers who support our events, including Summerfest, Dungannon, Super Pull and Music in the Fields.”
The County of Huron remains dedicated to fostering community partnerships and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable housing.
To learn more about the Gibbons Street Affordable Housing Development, and to find out how to support this project, visit https://www.huroncounty.ca/gibbons/
To learn more about the County of Huron’s commitment to developing more affordable housing in Huron, please visit: https://connectedcountyofhuron.ca/developing-more-affordable-homes-in-huron
The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth has many online education programs coming up this fall – including the annual online Fall Dementia Education Night.
Whether there are concerns about memory changes or if people want to learn more about brain health and current research, start here to find out more. Register for any of the programs below at Education Hour on our website: bit.ly//ASHPEducationHour
ANNUAL FALL DEMENTIA EDUCATION NIGHT with Dr. Sandra Black: The Heart-Brain Connection. This event takes place on ZOOM on Thursday, November 7 at 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Dr. Black is a renowned cognitive neurologist and Scientific Director at Sunnybrook Hospital, the Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery – Sunnybrook Hospital.
Dr. Black is an expert in the field of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment and cerebral small vessel disease. Bring your questions! We always look forward to the audience Q&A time following our Dementia Night presentations.
County of Huron continues to develop more affordable housing in the region
The County of Huron is taking proactive measures to address the issue of affordable housing in Huron County be developing additional affordable housing units.
The latest development, a 20-unit apartment building on Sanders Street in Exeter, is set to be completed and ready for occupancy in late 2024.
This apartment building has been constructed on an existing county housing site, with funding partially provided by the Canada-Ontario Community Housing Initiative.
The County of Huron currently has two housing developments underway, aimed at increasing the availability of affordable housing in the region and addressing homelessness.
“Staff, alongside Council, have been working incredibly hard to secure funding, manage construction, and prepare this building for occupation,” Glen McNeil, Huron County Warden expressed his satisfaction with the progress being made.
“I’m thrilled to see the progress that we’re making to add more housing units and address the housing crisis locally.”
The design of the building was done by JPM Architecture Inc., formerly Allan Avis Architects of Goderich, and it adheres to the county’s high performance building standard.
This standard prioritizes efficiency, resiliency in product choice, and sustainability in new builds.
The apartment building will feature multiple barrier-free units, including five-foot turning radiuses, roll under sinks, pull-down shelves, and flush balcony thresholds.
The construction materials selected for the development are durable and practical, ensuring that the property can be appropriately maintained with minimal replacement requirements in the future.
To learn more about County of Huron affordable housing options, including applications for tenancy, visit www.HuronCounty.ca/housing
This event is FREE, thank you to our event sponsor, the Municipality of Central Huron. Register directly for this event at: https://bit.ly/DEMENTIA-NIGHT2024
The society’s ongoing Education Hour programs are individual one-hour sessions - great starting points to learn more about dementia and brain health. Topics range from Dementia Overview to Brain Health or What is Mild Cognitive Impairment? Our popular Dementia Basics Series - including 10 Warning Signs – starts on Wednesday evening November 6 at 7 p.m. and repeated on Thursday afternoon November 7 at 1:30 p.m.
The remainder of the series includes topics on Types of Dementia, Brain Changes, and Communication Tips and will be offered at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Thursday, November 14, November 21 and November 28.
Join for one or all of these sessions – at Education Hour on our website: bit.ly// ASHPEducationHour For more information, contact our office at 519-482-1482 | 1-800-561-5012 or email jeanettes@alzhp.ca. Hope to see you soon.
1. What is the primary purpose of Remembrance Day?
2. On which date is Remembrance Day observed in many countries?
3. What symbol is commonly associated with Remembrance Day?
4. In which year was the first Remembrance Day commemorated?
5. What was the original name of Remembrance Day?
6. Which poem, written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, is often associated with Remembrance Day?
7. What time of day is often marked by a moment of silence on Remembrance Day?
8. Which countries commonly observe Remembrance Day on November 11?
9. What does the "two minutes of silence" represent?
10. Which notable figure famously said, "At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them"?
DR. SANDRA BLACK.
In Flanders Fields by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae May 3, 1915
In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.
Lest We Forget
REMEMBRANCE DAY - 11th NOVEMBER
Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.
(As published in Punch Magazine, December 8, 1915)
LEST WE FORGET
Above: Members of Branch 109 Goderich Legion marching towards the Cenotaph, November 11, 2023.
Right: Air Cadets standing guard at the Cenotaph.
(CYNTHIA STRICKLAND PHOTOS)
(CYNTHIA STRICKLAND PHOTOS)
Never Shall Their Glory Fade: Yates’ newest novel sheds light on importance of the cenotaph
SMITH Editor
Each Huron County community had its own uniquely natured debate, and every community chose a different type of cenotaph to honour those who made the supreme sacrifice during the Second World War.
In David Yates’ recent novel Never Shall Their Glory Fade: The Cenotaphs of Huron, the local historian and author writes about Huron County’s 13 cenotaphs.
“I was interested because as a history teacher, I was always fascinated by the Great War era and Canada’s role in it,” said Yates.
“Over time, my interests have shifted from the battlefield to how the war impacted the home front.”
According to Yates, in the aftermath of the war, the cenotaph debate took place in every community.
It was a debate that was always
intense, often emotional, and at a time when everyone knew or was related to someone who made the ultimate sacrifice during the war.
“The cenotaph debate was a necessary cathartic exercise, which helped people grieve and try to recover from the terrible losses sustained at the front,” expressed Yates.
“Each Huron County community had its own uniquely natured debate, and every community chose a different type of cenotaph. It was an important and all but forgotten debate.”
Yates partnered with local photographer Conrad Kuiper, who captured gorgeous photos in both black and white, and colour that really underscore the tremendous thought and artwork that went into the design of the cenotaphs across the region.
“The cenotaphs are Canada’s, Huron County in particular, most important works of public art that
are still held in high reverence today,” Yates added.
Never Shall Their Glory Fade covers some of the debates that took place between the wars, on how to properly honour their war dead in the years between the wars.
The book covers talks about the artists who designed the monuments, and stories of personal loss and tragedy that each cenotaph represents.
“Cenotaph – meaning empty tomb – unveilings became proxy funerals for entire towns who could not give their youth a proper funeral,” explained Yates.
“The cenotaphs become their community’s pride and were more than works of public art, but expressions of public grief.”
Never Shall Their Glory Fade: The Cenotaphs of Huron is available at Fincher’s in Goderich, the Blyth Citizen, and the Bayfield Village Book Shop for $25.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Cultural Summit aims to elevate arts, heritage, and cultural experiences
Huron County residents are invited to enjoy a day of creativity and inspiration at this year’s Huron County Cultural Summit at the Bayfield Town Hall on Saturday, November 2.
This year’s theme is Crafting Unforgettable Experiences: Elevating Arts, Heritage, and Culture in Huron County.
The event will provide a unique opportunity to connect with fellow artists, creators, cultural enthusiasts, and community event hosts.
Together, participants will explore innovative strategies, share best practices, and ignite creativity in creating events that make a lasting impact.
Throughout the morning, guest speakers and peer presenters will focus on event planning essentials, including a presentation from Giuliana Giancotta, Project Manager, Community Projects, Recreation and Culture from the Town of Caledon.
Giancotta will kick off the day with Collaboration in Action: Enhancing Rural Community through Partnerships.
Participants will also hear from peers working in Huron County who will share strategies for designing experiences that are engaging, accessible, and culturally relevant.
In the afternoon, participants will ex-
plore how to maintain and authentic rural identity while leveraging modern technology, how to incorporate sustainable practices into event planning, how digital tools can enhance rural cultural experiences and more.
The day will conclude with an introduction to the regional project, led by the County of Huron, to commemorate 200 years of the Huron Tract.
A participatory session will follow where delegates can exchange ideas on events, collaborations, and partnerships.
“Whether you are an event organizer, a member of a community group, an artist, performer, cultural worker, or local government representative, you will capture ideas, strategies, and key insights from this year’s Summit presenters,” said Karen Stewart, Huron County Cultural Development Officer.
“Networking time may ignite discussions on practical solutions or lead to collaborative opportunities. Together, we will reimagine what it takes to create memorable events that celebrate Huron County’s local culture and history.”
Tickets for the event are $35 per person, which includes lunch.
For full event details, and tickets, visit https://www.huroncounty.ca/cultural-services/cultural-summit/
KATHLEEN
Schaefer’s Ladies Wear celebrates 95 years in business
Opened on October 29, 1929, Goderich business Schaefer’s Ladies Wear is celebrating 95 years of business.
Current owner, Anne Ferguson says she is proud to carry on the legacy that her great-grandfather George started.
Schaefer’s has been through so much in all its years of business, including a fire in the 1950s, the side effects of two other fires, a tornado and most recently, the pandemic.
George’s first day of business landed on October 29, 1929 –Black Friday – the day the Toronto stock exchange crashed.
“The fact that he survived starting up a new business at that time is a miracle, and I am proud to continue his legacy and hopefully reach 100 years,” added Anne.
At the time of its grand opening in 1929, the store was mostly a women’s clothing and household product store. At the time of its opening, the store carried products such as flooring, curtains, blinds, wallpaper, bedding and towels.
Opened by George Schaefer, the business soon took on the family business approach and in the 1940s his son John joined. Over the next decade, as needs within the community changed, so did the business.
It was in the 1940s the focus of Schaefer’s shifted primarily to high quality women’s clothing.
Owning a business in a smaller town is a blessing for Anne, and she is grateful her great-grandfather chose Goderich to start his business venture.
“Shopping local is important, as it provides for not only the owner and their staff, but all the local businesses,” explained
95TH ANNIVERSARY
Schaefer’s is celebrating 95 years of business in Goderich. This photo is from when George Schaefer first opened the store in its current location.
Anne.
“It’s a very important ongoing circle of supporting each other.”
Eventually the women of the family began managing the business in the 1980s with Louise Schaefer, and in 1998, Anne took over.
By the 1980s the emphasis on women’s clothing was fully cemented into the fabric of the business.
Anne grew up in the store learning from both her grandfather (John) and her mother (Louise). When she was a child, Anne said that her grandfather would let her sort the “buttons” – size markers on the hangers – and she would be paid with treats.
Later in her teen years, Anne worked the floor, assisting customers and learning the day-today tasks associated with running a business.
“My grandfather spent time with me to teach me how to do all the bookkeeping and eventually when he retired, I assisted my mother with that,” Anne reminisced.
“Not once in all of those years, did I ever imagine that I would take over ownership and be here long enough to celebrate 95 years.”
Despite the success of the last 95 years, there have been various bumps in the road for local businesses, including most recently
the pandemic lockdowns, and the shift to online shopping.
By shopping local, Anne believes that the community is supporting a local family, and that family is also shopping local, creating a circular effect for the local economy.
Opening a business is no small feat, but the legacy left behind by George and continued success 95 years later, no business owner could have foreseen.
A part of the legacy and why Schaefer’s continues to be successful over the years are the loyal customers.
Anne explained that the store prefers to see its customers in person, as customer service is an important piece of the fabric that makes Schaefer’s such a success.
“Some of our loyal customers have been shopping at Schaefer’s for three, if not four generations,” Anne said.
“I am truly blessed that we have such loyalty and appreciate every single one of them. I am fortunate heart stories about coming into Schaefer’s when they were a child with their mother or grandmother and am grateful that they still shop with us today.”
Anne believes that if her great-grandfather was around today, he would be very proud but also amazed that Schaefer’s was still running as a fourth-generation family business, and now run by a woman.
“I would love to have a conversation with him of what business is like today, compared to when he first opened Schaefer’s, as well as listen to all of the stories he would have from his time,” expressed Anne.
“I always enjoyed listening to my grandfather’s stories, and often wish I had written it all down.”
Anne is also quick to credit
her mother Louise as her mentor who has provided everything that she needed to be successful. Louise, who was the first woman to run the business when it was mostly men in the industry, remains an inspiring woman to Anne, as she blazed the trail as a woman and a business owner in a small town.
To celebrate Schaefer’s 95th anniversary, the store is offering up to 95 per cent off purchases. Customers will get to pop a balloon at the time of purchase, which will reveal their discount.
As of Saturday, October 26, Schaefer’s had three customers receive 95 per cent off already. With each purchase, customers will receive a ballot to enter for a chance to win a $950 gift card, or one of nine $95 gift cards.
Additionally, Schaefer’s will have another draw for everyone who stops into the store to enter for many great prizes. This sale is on until November 2.
Schaefer’s is not only a successful, multi-generationally run business celebrating 95 years in business, but over the years has also taken part in events including Ladies Night.
This year Ladies Night is on Thursday, November 14 from 12 p.m. until 8 p.m.
“We have already started planning this event, and have some great deals and giveaways,” Anne added.
There will be storewide discounts, a gift with purchase, and a treat for those who visit Schaefer’s on November 14.
The store will also have a huge, two-day Black Friday sale, but the details are still top secret. To be the first to know, Anne suggests customers register through Schaefer’s website to receive monthly emails.
Visit https://www.schaefersladieswear.com
IODE Christmas House Tour 2024 to support Huron Hospice
The IODE Maple Leaf Chapter Goderich is thrilled to announce the return of its much-anticipated Christmas House Tour on Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
This cherished annual event will open the doors to five local area homes and properties beautifully decorated for the holiday season by talented local businesses, all in support of this year’s chosen recipient Huron Hospice Bender House.
The IODE Christmas House Tour provides the perfect opportunity for the com-
munity to come together, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and be inspired by stunning holiday décor.
Each of the featured homes will be transformed into a winter wonderland, showcasing creative decorating ideas for some of the area’s finest local designers and businesses.
“This event is more than just a celebration of the season – it’s a way for us to give back to the community,” said Heather Stewart, Regent of IODE Maple Leaf Chapter Goderich.
“We are proud to support the Huron
Hospice Bender House this year, which provides critical care and support to individuals and families in Huron County during their most sacred final hours together.”
Join the IODE for a weekend of holiday magic while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference in the community.
There are five local properties in Goderich involved, and tickets must be purchased before the event. Tickets are available at the IODE Opportunity and Consignment Shop, Fincher’s, All Around the House, Pharmasave Lucknow, or
through IODE members for $25 cash. More conveniently, tickets can be purchased through e-transfer to iodemapleleaf@gmail.com by Tuesday, November 5.
Each ticket purchased helps support Huron Hospice Bender House, with proceeds going directly toward maintaining and expanding the hospice’s services. The Huron Hospice has long been a pillar of compassionate care in the community, and the IODE is proud to contribute to their continued success through this year’s Christmas House Tour.
KATHLEEN SMITH Editor
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Water Response Team issues low water advisory for Bayfield
The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) Water Response Team (WRT) has declared a Level 1 Low Water Advisory for the Bayfield River watershed.
The WRT based its dedcision on watershed conditions that have resulted from a very dry August and September.
The Ontario Low Water Response (OLWR) Level 1 indicator is 80 per cent of the three-month average, and the indicator station totaled rainfall amounts of 75 per cent of normal.
This period of dry weather is having an impact on stream flows, particularly in the Bayfield River, according to Christie Brown, ABCA Water Resources Technician.
“While the three-month totals do not
fall too far below the Advisory threshold, it is important to remember that a very wet July factors into this figure,” explained Brown.
“Where we are seeing the impacts of a dry August and September, is in the stream flows, and this will have an impact on seasonal transitions within the aquatic ecosystem.”
Monthly flows for September were only 14 per cent of normal.
Water Response Team Chair Marissa Vaughan said everyone has a role to play in water conservation.
While water usage demand typically lowers in autumn, Vaughan encourages all water users to look for ways they can conserve water and prevent further reduction in water levels and availability of water.
“During a Level 1 Low Water Advisory condition, we encourage water users to proactively conserve water by voluntarily reducing their water use by 10 per cent,” said Vaughan.
The WRT relies on both precipitation and stream flow indicators to support any decision to move into a low water advisory.
Indicators include one-month stream flow and one-month or three-month precipitation.
A Level 1 advisory includes a request for a 10 per cent voluntary reduction in water use. A Level 3 advisory may involve mandatory water use restrictions.
The WRT was formed in 2001 in response to the low water and drought con-
ditions that year and the team has been active since.
The WRT includes representatives of major water users including aggregate industries, agriculture and vegetable growers, and golf and recreation, as well as local municipal representatives and staff of provincial ministries.
ABCA staff will continue to monitor rainfall and stream flow data and keep the public informed of any changes in watershed conditions.
For ways to reduce water use, visit the water quantity and water conservation page: https://www.abca.ca/conservationstrategy/water/quantity/ Visit www.ontario.ca/lowwater for further resources on the Ontario Low Water Response program.
Londesboro Lions Club to host second well water testing event
Almost 50 private well owners attended a well testing event, hosted by Londesboro District Lions Club in January 2024.
The Lions Club distributed more than 270 water sample bottles before that event, and almost 70 bottles were returned to Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) for testing.
After the success of that event, the Lions Club is hosting another well testing event on Thursday, November 14.
Owners of private wells can return their well water samples between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. that evening to the Lions Hall in Londesboro.
The November 14 event encourages well owners to test, protect and maintain their well and septic systems.
Lions members are distributing sample bottles to homes in Londesboro prior to the event.
Water testing sample bottles are also available for pickup, in advance of the event, at Nature’s Nest and Hensall District Co-op’s Londesborough locations. Samples bottles are available at the event as well.
The event will be the tenth Water Wise well testing and public information event held in the region since 2023.
More than 420 well owners have attended the events and organizers have delivered more than 440 water sample bottles to local public health in that time frame.
Service clubs and volunteers have helped distribute more than 1,500 bottles
as part of the initiative.
The Lions Club volunteers and drinking water source protection staff ensure samples are kept chilled and delivered to HPPH for testing the morning after the event. Information on well protection and septic maintenance will be available at the event.
The Londesboro and District Lions Club encourages well owners to take advantage of this convenient way to check on the safety of their well water. When water sampling of private wells is made easier, more people will do it. That’s the idea behind the Water Wise events that have been happening in some communities in the Ausable Bayfield Maitland Valley Source Protection Re-
gion.
Well owners may know having well water tested is important to ensure their family, friends, and neighbours are safe, but it isn’t always as convenient as they would like.
Getting a sample bottle locally, and having someone deliver it to HPPH makes it easier.
The event will be posted on social media with #TestProtectMaintain and #WaterWise and #WellWise hashtags.
The November event has been made possible thanks to funding from the County of Huron’s Huron Clean Water Project. Visit https://www.sourcewaterinfo.on/ ca/about/best-practices/ for more information.
World Polio Day, observed on October 24, serves as a stark reminder that polio was once one of the most feared diseases across the globe.
This highly infectious illness, with no cure, spread rapidly and left devastation in its wake. Every year, thousands of children were killed, and hundreds of thousands were paralyzed.
Thanks to vaccines, many of us in the Western world are now insulated from the horrors of polio. But that was not the case for much of the world.
For more than 35 years, Rotary International has been at the forefront of efforts to eradicate polio. Our goal—ridding the world of this crippling disease—is closer than ever.
Since Rotary launched its first vaccina-
tion project in the Philippines in 1979, polio cases have decreased by 99.9 percent. This milestone is the result of Rotary’s work as a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), a public-private partnership that includes the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
Together, this coalition has protected nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from polio, with Rotary members contributing over $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours to the cause.
In the early 1980s, Rotary leaders sought a major health initiative to celebrate Rotary’s centenary in 2005.
They envisioned a polio-free world and launched the Polio 2005 Committee in 1984 with that goal in mind. While political challenges, access issues, and local
customs slowed progress, Rotary’s commitment never wavered.
Rotary’s eradication strategy involved repeatedly vaccinating children at risk until the virus’s spread was stopped. But Rotary’s vision extended beyond polio.
Recognizing the importance of preventing other childhood diseases, the initiative expanded to become “PolioPlus,” which aims to protect children from all vaccine-preventable diseases such as diphtheria, measles, and whooping cough.
The infrastructure built to fight polio through the PolioPlus program also played a vital role in responding to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, as many of the volunteers, techniques, and strategies were redeployed in the global fight against the virus.
Before 1988, polio paralyzed 350,000 children annually. Today, an estimated 20 million people are walking who would
have otherwise been paralyzed, and over 1.5 million lives have been saved.
However, the fight isn’t over. Polio remains endemic in only two countries— Afghanistan and Pakistan—but it is crucial to continue efforts to keep the rest of the world polio-free.
Like smallpox, polio requires total and sustained eradication. If we stop now, polio could make a dangerous comeback, potentially paralyzing up to 200,000 children each year within a decade.
With the support of Rotary and the GPEI, governments have the tools, volunteers, and strategies needed to end polio once and for all.
By supporting Rotary through attending local events or donating to our foundation, you can help us achieve this historic goal. For more information or to donate to this cause please visit us at GoderichRotary.ca or contact contact@goderichrotary.ca
THE ROTARY CLUB OF GODERICH Sun Contributor
Habitat for Humanity invites community to get involved
Recently there has been a lot of action at the build site on Angelsea Street in Goderich, including a crew of volunteers and staff setting up the fence around the build site.
Habitat reminds the community that there are many ways to get involved, including sponsoring a build day, making a monetary donation and volunteering.
Sponsoring a build day offers local community groups, businesses and others with an impactful, fun, and rewarding team building experience.
From the moment you step onto the con-
struction site, your team works collaboratively to learn new skills and leaves with a sense of personal accomplishment.
Habitat’s build sites welcome people who have lots of building experience to none.
Making a monetary donation will turn a construction site into a home, and there are many opportunities to volunteer.
Contact resource@habitathuroncounty. ca or d.morrison@habitathuroncounty.ca for more information on how to help Habitat for Humanity.
Visit www.habitathuroncounty.ca
Police Reports
OPP Thanksgiving Long Weekend
‘Operation Impact’ traffic campaign results
Members of the Huron County OPP took part in the Thanksgiving Holiday Weekend Traffic Campaign from October 11 to October 14.
Focus was placed on traffic safety and the big four, which includes distracted driving, alcohol and drug impaired driving, speeding and aggressive driving, and seatbelt compliance.
This year Huron OPP officers conducted 124 traffic stops and laid 89 charges during the initiative.
These included 45 speeding charges, one stunt driving charge, 10 seatbelt charges, four impaired driving charges, seven insurance-related charges, and 22 various traffic-related charges.
Huron OPP officers also issued 52 warnings during the campaign period.
Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility. Please do your part to ensure Ontario’s roadways are safe to travel on.
Serious assault in Goderich; suspect arrested and charged
Huron County OPP is investigating a serious assault that took place in Goderich on Saturday, August 31.
In September, OPP officers received information that an assault had taken place in Goderich.
Police investigated the incident and have subsequently arrested and charged one individual on October 12.
A 38-year-old from Goderich was charged with aggravated assault and fail to comply with probation order.
The accused was held in custody for a bail hearing where he was remanded into custody awaiting a further court appearance at the Ontario Court of Justice – Goderich.
Appeal to public for familial DNA
for comparison
On October 22, 1967, the Huron County OPP received a missing person’s report involving two men that had departed for a fishing excursion from the Port of Goderich and were never seen again.
Neil Worsbecker and Hank Englebertus Halff were ages 29 and 30 when they went missing in Lake Huron.
Both men resided in the Stratford area at the time.
On October 2, 2024 the OPP requested the public’s help in locating biological family members for the two men.
Several tips were received, which resulted in a biological family member being located for Mr. Halff.
On October 15 a second public appeal was made for biological family members of Mr. Wormsbecker.
The Huron OPP is pleased to advise that biological family members for both men have been located. These family members have provided DNA samples, which will be analyzed and compared.
The DNA samples will be compared against all samples of found human remains in the DNA database.
The Ontario Center for Missing Persons and Unidentified Remains (ONCMPUR) along with the National Missing Persons DNA Program (NMDP) continue to work toward solving historical cases and providing closure for families of missing loved ones.
The Huron OPP would like to thank their media partners and members of the public who have shared this information and provided leads to investigators that led to family members being located for both men.
Any person with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Huron OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
LENDING A HELPING HAND
Volunteers helping fence the perimeter of the building site.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
SPORTS Goderich Sun
www.rlpheartland.ca
Jarod McManus
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
226-963-1209
Melissa Daer
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
519-525-1774
YOUR “HOMETOWN” REAL ESTATE TEAM
Extended road trip proves challenging for Goderich Flyers
The Goderich Flyers embarked on a challenging sixgame stretch, with five games on the road, testing their depth and resilience.
Despite limited success, the Flyers kept each game close aside from a tough loss to Fergus. A lack of consistency on the power play continues to hinder their chances, allowing opportunities to slip away in key moments.
However, depth scoring has been a bright spot, with 14 players contributing goals so far.
Rookies Kingston Powell and
Kaeden MacDonald are leading the team offensively, with Powell recording 12 points and MacDonald 10.
Goaltender Brady Galbraith has been another standout, starting the last three games and maintaining an impressive .916 save percentage. His performance has kept the Flyers in several close matchups, particularly in their shootout loss against Kincardine.
The Flyers are well-positioned to continue building momentum as they look forward to more home games in November.
October 11 vs. Hanover (5-2 Loss):
GODERICH JUNIOR FLYERS
Hanover opened scoring early, and Goderich struggled to respond as Hanover extended the lead to 3-0 within the first period.
Goderich’s Jackson Andrews broke through in the second, assisted by Kaeden MacDonald and Jack Stecho.
TOUGH LOSS
The Goderich Junior Flyers lost in a shootout against Kincardine on October 26. The next game for the Flyers is Friday, November 1.
third, added grit to the Flyers’ performance.
October 12 vs. Walkerton (2-0 Win):
portunities.
Iain
In the third, Cooper Gaul found the net off a pass from Trent Carter and Stecho, but Hanover sealed the game with two power-play goals late in the third.
Despite the loss, physical efforts by Carter and Aldrich, particularly in the
The Flyers bounced back in a defensive-focused 2-0 shutout victory. Leland Weber scored first in the second period on a power play, assisted by Ryan McGee and Stecho.
Late in the third, Kaeden MacDonald secured the win with an empty netter, assisted by Jackson Andrews and Jared Houghton.
Galbraith was a standout, recording his first shutout of the season with several critical saves, particularly in the third, while the Flyers controlled play, limiting Walkerton’s scoring op -
October 18 vs. Mitchell (4-3 SO Loss): Mitchell took an early 3-0 lead, but Goderich staged a comeback, sparked by goals from the fourth line. Aidan Terpstra scored his first goal of the season, followed by Kingston Powell’s pow er-play goal, assisted by Houghton and Stecho, to close the gap by the end of the second period. Austin Waite tied the game
early in the third on another power play with help from McGee and Powell. Despite outshooting Mitchell 15-4 in the third, the Flyers couldn’t find the winner, eventually falling in the shootout.
October 20 vs. Fergus (7-0 Loss): Facing a high-powered Fergus team, Goderich struggled to contain the Whalers’ offense, ultimately conceding seven goals.
While the Flyers’ penalty kill
PROVINCIAL JUNIOR HOCKEY LEAGUE NORTH POLLOCK DIVISION
COLIN CARMICHAEL Sun Contributor
(ARIC BRINDLEY PHOTO)
Extended road trip proves challenging for Goderich Flyers
held Fergus to just one power-play goal on six chances, Fergus maintained a steady attack throughout the game. Goderich’s shots were close (32-33), but Fergus took advantage of turnovers and defensive lapses to capitalize.
October 25 vs. Mount Forest (4-2 Loss):
In Mount Forest, the Flyers showed improvement on the power play, scoring both of their goals with the man advantage.
Trent Carter’s power-play goal in the second, assisted by Houghton and McGee, narrowed Mount Forest’s lead to 2-1.
In the third, Kingston Powell scored again on the power play, with assists from Waite and Carter, but Mount Forest held on, adding an insurance goal late in the game to seal the win.
October 26 vs. Kincardine (4-3 SO Loss):
Outshooting Kincardine 53-36, the Flyers dominated possession but couldn’t secure a win in the shootout.
Iain MacIsaac, Leland Weber, and Kaeden MacDonald each scored to keep
pace with the Bulldogs, who managed to stay in the game thanks to a stellar performance from goalie Ryan Tanner, who made 50 saves.
In the shootout, Kingston Powell, Carson Stutzman, and Weber were all denied, while Aidan Yarde’s goal secured Kincardine’s victory. Galbraith held strong with a .914 save percentage, giving Goderich a fighting chance.
Game Scores
• October 11: Hanover 5 - Goderich 2
• October 12: Goderich 2 - Walkerton 0
• October 18: Mitchell 4 - Goderich 3 (SO)
• October 20: Fergus 7 - Goderich 0
• October 25: Mount Forest 4 - Goderich 2
• October 26: Kincardine 4 - Goderich 3 (SO)
Upcoming Games
• Friday, November 1 at Kincardine
• Saturday, November 2 at Walkerton
• Friday, November 8 at Wingham
• Saturday, November 9 vs Kincardine in Goderich
Goderich and District Shuffleboard Club Results
Oct. 15:
The club had 55 members who took part in shuffleboard this week, and the club’s lucky Domino’s Pizza winner was John White.
The club had five, three-game winners this week including Gerdien Dykman (that’s two weeks in a row), Frank Namink, Lawrence Becker, Lorne Kingston, and Bill Godfrey.
Congratulations to all the club’s winners.
Oct. 22:
The club had 57 members who played shuffleboard and the lucky Domino’s Pizza winner was Peter Cameron.
There were seven, three-game winners this week, including Ann Kingston, Cathy Ryan (second week for her), Frank Namink (second week), Peter Cameron, Pauline Green, Barb Howard, and Don Rose.
Congratulations to all winners.
Goderich Duplicate Bridge Club Results
On October 15 the club had six full tables, directed by Bob Dick:
1st – Joyce McIlwain and Pat King – 58.15%
2nd – John Archbold and Pamela Raab – 57.41%
3rd – Mary Lynne Telford and Paul Spittal – 53.70%
4th – Shirley Thomas and Tom Rajnovich – 50.74%
5th/6th – Cal Scotchmer and Janet Bloch with Doug Elliott and Evy McDonagh – 50%
On October 22 the club had seven and half tables directed by Bob Dick:
1st – Pamela Raab and John Archbold – 67.31%
2nd – Joan Lounsbury and Mary Lapaine – 55.77%
3rd – Marj Stewart and Terry Fry – 55.45%
4th/5th – John Legate and Stephan Jacob with Virginia Elliott and Doug Elliott – 55.31%
6th – Tom Rajnovich and Shirley Thomas – 53.85%
SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER
The Corporation of the Town of Goderich Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on November 7, 2024, at the Town of Goderich Municipal Office, 57 West Street, Goderich Ontario.
Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers. This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. A full copy of the tax sale advertisement and further information about this matter is available on line at www.OntarioTaxSales.ca or www.goderich.ca or you may contact Tara Darnbrough, Finance and Taxation Manager, The Corporation of the Town of Goderich, 57 West Street, Goderich ON N7A 2K5, Telephone: (519) 524-8344 Ext. 213, Email: tdarnbrough@goderich.ca
GDCI Field Hockey earns silver medal at Huron Perth Finals
KATHLEEN SMITH Editor
After a stellar season, achieving majority of the team’s goals, the GDCI Field Hockey squad led by renowned coach Ray Lewis, earned a silver medal at the Huron Perth Finals last week.
Many centres are involved in new construction of turf facilities so that limited the schedules this season, explained Lewis.
“We were rolling and improving every game but injuries t our forwards were own downfall,” Lewis added.
During the squad’s league play, they went 8-2-0, both losses against Exeter. Overall, the GDCI Vikings finished 186-1 losing only to teams that medalled at OFSAA.
Lewis expressed that the final match was great and felt evenly matched against Exeter, despite losing the match.
“We did everything you could ask except score,” said Lewis.
“We had a bad four minutes and gave up three quick goals. The rest of the match we played the way we wanted, but Exeter
finished their chances.”
Exeter will move on to the WOSSAA championship against Medway.
According to Lewis this is the first year since COVID the team has been replenished with players in each grade.
“The season was great,” admitted Lewis.
“The season started fast and furious as usual, but we played fewer games.”
Lewis has been coaching field hockey at GDCI since 2005. He retired from teaching and continues to volunteer to coach the team.
Lewis admitted that this year’s squad has tons of potential and show impressive growth.
“They just need to play more games,” Lewis said.
“Watching them come to understand the game and implement the right technique and strategy is so fun to see because they carry those skills forever and pass them on.”
The season is wrapped up now and Lewis and the returning players look towards the first Wednesday of September 2025 to begin their next season.
SILVER MEDAL
Members of the GDCI Field Hockey team with their silver medals and Coach Ray Lewis at the Huron Perth Finals where they lost to Exeter.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Goderich Ringette holds annual ringette day
Goderich Ringette Association held their annual Ringette Day on Saturday, October 26, celebrating their 40th season by adding an opening ceremony and alumni game on the Friday night.
The entire event was a huge success thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors, vendors, alumni and players.
A huge highlight was the unveiling of the new ringette mural hung beside the score board at the Maitland Recreation Centre (MRC). This special piece of art celebrates 40 years of ringette.
The mural is more than just paint on a canvas – it’s a tribute to the athletes, coaches, volunteers and supporters who have built and sustained this sport through the decades.
“It serves as a reminder of the values we hold dear – community, perseverance, and passion,” said Megan Frayne, President of Goderich Ringette.
“A special thank you to Veronica Mabon who brought this vision to life. It’s stands as a permanent tribute to everything we’ve achieved together over the years. It is a beautiful reflection of our history and the legacy we are building for future generations.”
Trail Talk: Controlling invasive species
At Hullett Wildlife Area I have noticed there has been much more than usual cutting of the grass and shrub areas.
On enquiring I was informed that the mowing was done to control invasive species and to meet the objectives of the Habitat Management Plan.
There are a lot of Autumn Olive at Hullett that were planted to provide hedgerows. This, and multi flora roses were recommended plants before it was realized that they were alien invasives.
The main problem with Autumn Olive is that it spreads and forms dense thickets and out-
dreds of milkweeds which are mostly in seed at Hullett near parking lot 40589 on Conservation Road.
Ginko trees are very resistant to pollution and turn lemon yellow in autumn, but Professor Tallamy points out that a Ginko tree only supports one species of caterpillar, which a landscape gardener might like, but it is a poor choice if you love birds.
Autumn Blaze is becoming very popular as it has bright red leaves in the fall but is a poor choice from a biodiversity point of view when planted in rows, and they are likely to eventually fail at the same time.
The recent wind has covered the trails with fallen leaves of many different hues, which
competes native species.
In some areas the extra nitrogen it puts into the soil can create problems.
Where there is insufficient plant diversity the recommended native species include species such as hawthorn, wild apple, elderberry, American high bush cranberry, dogwood, nannyberry, sumac, trembling aspen, cedar and wild apple.
If you want any common milkweed seeds, there are hun-
makes for a great colour palette, but they hide tree roots, so you need to be extra cautious.
When hiking on the Front Road trail, I noticed a tree that from a distance appeared to be mostly covered with white blossoms, but on closer inspection, the “blossoms” were Virgin’s Bower seed heads.
The Maitland Trail is closed for the deer gun hunting weeks, from November 4 to November 10 and December 2 to Decem-
ber 8. These closures do not apply to areas where hunting is not allowed, which include the Falls Reserve, the Maitland Woods, Sifto Loop, Millennium trail and the G2G.
I am still seeing a lot of clouded sulphur butterflies every day from September 27 through October 24 except for October 23 when it was mostly cool and cloudy.
The last time I saw Monarch and Northern Crescent was on October 6. The last Painted Lady was on October 19 and the last Eastern Comma was on October 20.
On October 16 while on the cycle outing at Point Farms I saw I bird that I did not recognize, which turned out to be a non-breeding Snow Bunting. This is the first time I have had a close look at a Snow Bunting as I had only seen then in flocks that quickly fly away.
NOTES:
Monday, November 4 to Sunday, November 10: The Maitland Trail is closed due to deer gun hunting.
Saturday, November 16: There is a pheasant hunt on in the Hullett Wildlife Area.
Sunday, November 3 at 1 p.m. - Hike the Taylor and Mavis trails at Varna for about an hour then drive to Bannockburn Tract for a hike of about 40 minutes. Moderate pace and total of about two hours. To confirm your attendance email Patrick Capper at pcapper99@gmail. com.
Tuesday, November 12 at 7 p.m. - Join a BRVTA Owl prowl. Meet at the entrance to the Sawmill Trail. Please do not bring lights, red lights will be provided.
Friday, November 15 from 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. - Owl Prowl at Morrison Dam Conservation area. If you wish to attend, you must pre-register with the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority at bit.ly/4gEwxHg
Saturday, November 16 at 9 a.m. - Meet at 71108 Morrison Line, Exeter for an easy hike, on a flat, shaded trail along the Morrison Dam and McNaughten Park trails with scenic vistas of the Morrison Reservoir. For more information and to confirm your attendance, please contact Gena Lowe at genalowe24@gmail.com or Paula Deering at paulaldeering@ gmail.com. This is a level 1, leisurely paced, 1.5 hour Tuesday Trompers meet at 9 a.m. on Tuesday to hike for about an hour. If you wish to be on this email list, send an email
to mta@maitlandtrail.ca
Midweek hikers meet at 9 a.m. and hike for 1.5 to 2 hours on Wednesdays or Thursdays. Contact Patrick Capper at pcapper99@gmail.com
PATRICK CAPPER Sun Contributor
A Painted Lady.
Autumn Olive.
Some Milkweed seeds.
Virgin’s Bower.
The Snow Bunting.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Goderich Co-op Gallery hosts photography exhibit and silent auction
p.m. All are welcome.
The excitement doesn’t stop there for the gallery in November.
Tom Barker and Jerry McDonnell’s photography exhibit entitled ‘Aimless Wanderings’ shows these artists don’t take them selves too seriously.
Their photos will be displayed on the Visting Artist wall at the Goderich Coop Gallery (GCG) throughout November. Both photographers are longtime members of the Co-op gallery.
For Tom Barker, the most enjoyable part of producing these images is the exploration and searching.
Barker especially enjoys macro or closeup photography, especially zoning in on insects.
Jerry McDonnell, like Barker, always aims to keep his camera close at hand.
McDonnell’s focus is on decaying buildings, imaging their past stories.
The official opening of ‘Aimless Wanderings’ will take place at the gallery on Saturday, November 2 from 2 p.m. until 4
The traditional silent auction of member artists’ works begins on November 4 and closes on December 6. All bids must be made online at gcgallery.ca
Another event the gallery will host is Ladies’ Night on Thursday, November 14. Those who visit the gallery can enter the draw for the gallery gift basket and enjoy the artwork in the gallery, or shop where all the art is under $50.
There will also be new work by Christmas Artisans throughout the gallery for November and December.
The gallery is also hosting a poetry reading by local poet Carol Casey on Saturday, November 16 from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. Casey is a published poet and hails from Blyth.
Goderich Co-op Gallery is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, on the lower level at 54 Courthouse Square in Goderich.
CAROL MCDONNELL, GCG MEMBER
Sun Contributor
PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT
Top right: A sample from Jerry McDonnell’s photography. Above: A sample from Tom Barker.
PHOTOS)
Private McKee Dunn Morrison’s “Honourable Discharge”
A richly coloured stained glass window in the northeast corner of St. George’s Church is probably the only relic of the short life of a courageous man.
His death was more tragic because like millions of the Great War’s casualties, Morrison was unmarried and without children to carry on his memory. Ironically, the only legacy of Morrison’s life is a window commemorating his death.
McKee Dunn Morrison was born an American blue blood in Washington, D.C. on December 12, 1883. Morrison was descended of American warriors dating back to the revolution.
His maternal grandfather was US Senator Richard Hawley (Mich). His mother, Minnie, was a Daughter of the American Revolution.
Since 1857, the family, according to Eleanor Smith’s Stories of the Windows of St. George’s Anglican Church, 2016, spent summers in Goderich.
In 1860, Senator Hawley’s son, Richard, built the Italianate brick estate on the north side of the Huron Road, one mile east of Goderich.
Richard’s sister, Minnie Hawley, according to Smith, spent summers in Goderich living “a privileged life.”
Minnie married West Point graduate, Captain Charles Clifford Morrison, and adopted Morrison’s stepson, McKee Dunn Morrison.
Dunn’s paternal grandfather was a congressman and Civil War general, William McKee Dunn, Judge Advocate General, US Army.
One of the families the Morrisons entertained in Goderich were the Garfields.
General James Garfield became US president in 1881 and was shortly thereafter assassinated. The widow Garfield and her children remained frequent summer guests of the Morrisons in Goderich well into the 1890s.
In 1894, when McKee was only 11, his father died leaving only his stepmother to care for him. Minnie and her stepson took up permanent residence with her mother, Evangeline, Senator Hawley’s widow, on Nelson Street about 1900.
According to the 1911 census, the Hawley/Morrison
family remained an affluent one as members of their household included a nurse and domestic servant. Tellingly, no occupation was listed for the 28-year-old McKee.
At war’s outbreak in 1914, as an American, McKee was not expected to enlist but he reportedly attempted to enlist in the Canadian army but was rejected on physical grounds.
Yet, as a descendant of a martial line of heroic warriors, McKee must have felt that he was failing his family’s traditions of duty, honour and courage.
Even after his own country declared war in April 1917 and the hideous losses on the Western Front were wellknown, McKee Morrison was unable to find a recruiter desperate enough to accept him as a soldier.
On October 11, 1917, the Signal noted that “Mrs. C. C. Morrison and Mr. McKee Morrison left this morning for New York, where they intend to spend the winter.”
It was the last time that McKee Morrison would see Goderich. After five attempts at enlisting, McKee Morrison was taken on strength of the 107th New York Infantry Regiment when it embarked for overseas service in May 1918 with a total strength of 2,995 officers and men.
As part of the American 27th Division, when Private Morrison's eager but young-blooded regiment moved into the front lines in July 1918, the war had been in progress for almost four years.
The Germans that the Americans faced were battle weary but tough, veteran troops more than capable of inflicting heavy casualties on any assault.
On September 24, McKee's regiment attacked the German positions on the Somme River. According to the 107th's Regiment official history, the regiment “encountered fierce resistance and was involved in the heaviest fighting for the line.”
Despite determined resistance, the Americans forced the Germans to retreat but the 107th's Regiment's casualties were heavy.
One of those casualties was Private McKee Dunn Morrison who met his death in the fighting on the Somme on September 29.
Mrs. Morrison, living at the New Weston, Madison Ave and 49th Street, after not hearing from her son for several months received the dreaded telegram in December 1918, a month after the Armistice, that McKee had been killed.
An item in the New York Herald's society pages noted that “word had been received in this city that Mr. McKee Dunn Morrison had been killed in action”. The Herald spent more time detailing Morrison's distinguished lineage than the details of the young man's death.
In Goderich, a wire was received by Dr. Alexander Taylor from Mrs. Morrison informing him of her son's death. The wire contained a letter from Lamier McKee, a relative of her husband's, which must have given her some comfort because Dr. Taylor would not have had it printed in the Goderich Star without her permission.
Lamier McKee called Private Morrison's death a 'glorious' end, which “many men of health and means with apparently everything to live for, who envy McKee his death.” Her son's loss was “a splendid death in the service of mankind.”
Indeed, Lamier McKee earned his “honourable discharge” and told Mrs. Morrison to “never reproach yourself for having urged him, encouraged him, to get into the service. Hard as it may seem, you never did a finer thing or one more generous” than offering her son as a sacrifice. Whatever Mrs. Morrison's real feelings may have been, one wonders if Lamier McKee was attempting to assuage any guilt she might have felt for 'encouraging' her physically weak son to enlist in a front-line infantry regiment. Whatever Mrs. Morrison felt, the shock of her son's death may have claimed her life. She died just two years after her son on December 20, 1920.
DAVID YATES Sun Contributor
Left: The Gothic window of the warrior who has ‘Fought the Good Fight’ from 2 Timothy is a memorial to McKee Dunn Morrison who was killed in action on the Somme just weeks before the Armistice.
Jingle and Mingle Market to feature 24 vendors from Huron County
Recently, Deputy Reeve Falconer posed for pictures with local business owners, and Cindy Scholten, event coordinator and owner of Edge Wood Décor.
Scholten is preparing for her upcoming Jingle and Mingle Market on Sunday, November 3 at Cowbell Brewing Co., which will feature 24 juried vendors from Huron County.
“This will be the first time Cowbell has worked with someone regarding an event like this,” said Scholten.
“We are all very excited about it. I wanted something different with an exciting and fun vibe, and I knew after speaking with their event planner, they were the perfect choice.”
Scholten, who loves the Christmas season, is hopeful this event will be the best way for everyone to launch into the festive season.
Scholten says the secret to a successful event is supporting local businesses and working as a team.
“I am very fortunate to be working with Amanda Duff, from Cowbell, and with some new business owners I have not worked with before, like Heather from Heather Dietz Photography,” admitted Scholten.
“She is my community partner for this event and is a very talented wedding photographer and will be one of the vendors on event day for any new brides in need of her services.”
There will be a photo booth set up and open for shoppers coming in for the Jingle and Mingle event.
Open to the public, an all-ages event, the Jingle and Mingle Market will run from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. on November 3 at Cowbell in Blyth.
Entry is free, and the event will also include live music, hot food, beverages for sale, and a grand prize draw.
To learn more about Edge Wood Décor events visit www.edgewooddecor.
Private McKee Dunn Morrison’s “Honourable Discharge”
Minnie’s sister, Mrs. Merrill Doe, of Chicago, commissioned what is known as the “warrior window” titled “I Have Fought the Good Fight” at St George’s Church. It depicts a soldier in medieval armour “suffering as a good soldier” (2 Timothy 2:3-6), with McKee Morrison's epitaph, “Killed in Action, 29 September 1918 Buried at Bony, France.”
Beside it, another window dedicated to Morrison's stepmother, Minnie Hawley, is known as the “My Redeemer Liveth” window.
According to Smith, designed by the McCausland Stained Glass Windows Company, it is described as portraying the Angel of Resurrection wearing an armoured breast plate and holding a victory palm. The two windows complement each other and were dedicated on October 27, 1921, by the Most Reverend David Williams, Bishop of Huron.
Although his name is not recorded locally on any cenotaph or Honour Roll, McKee Dunn Morrison was a courageous man not only because he was killed in action like millions of others in the Great War's carnage but also because poor health, an infirm body and an advanced age, he vol-
unteered anyway for a combat unit.
He must have known what type of 'glorious' death awaited him. McKee Dunn Morrison did, indeed, 'fight the good fight.”
JINGLE MARKET
To celebrate this upcoming event, Deput Reeve Kevin Falconer (far right), met with (L-R): Heather Dietz, Cindy Scholten and Penny Chmilar.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Inscription at the foot of the McKee Dunn Morrison window.
The Redeemer window dedicated to McKee Dunn Morrison’s stepmother Minnie Hawley.
Clearing the cobwebs for better mental health
It takes a special kind of human to work in the health care industry. I'm thankful to everyone who dedicates their life and livelihood to this field of care that unfortunately keeps getting spread thinner with fewer resources and bloated bureaucracies. It's a broken system that I hope to see improve during my lifetime.
I spend much of my working days on the telephone with
people who call to ask for help.
During a 15-minute complimentary consultation call I can quickly identify:
• Their current situation.
• The #1 thing holding them back.
• A plan for change.
On that consult call, I ask three questions:
1. What do you want?
2. Why do you want it?
3. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being highest, how motivated are you to make the changes you need to make to get what you say you want?
Most people answer question three with a seven. What that tells me is that they're not ready. I stand by my ethos that recovery doesn't take long. It takes a persistent willingness to exert consistent efforts to help ourselves.
We've accepted a "system of recovery" that doesn't work. We keep adding time to residential programs - but time is not the
issue, and more time is not the answer.
Bio/psycho/social factors aside, recovery simply takes a persistent willingness to exert consistent efforts to help yourself. It's simple, but it's not easy. If it was easy, everyone would do it.
The Stages of Change model (developed by James Prochaska and Carlo DiClemente in the 1970s) is widely used to describe the stages involved with any behavioural change.
The Stages of Change
Pre-contemplation (not ready): People at this stage are often resistant to change and don't realize (or accept) that their behaviours are problematic. Precontemplators may show up for therapy because of external factors & pressures from family members, employers, courts, etc.
People in this stage usually place responsibility for their problems on someone else or some situation or circumstance
Grey Matters: Coping with
they can't or won't change.
Contemplation: People at this stage are not necessarily unmotivated or in denial but they are somewhat ambivalent. They have mixed feelings and aren't sure how to choose a course of action.
Preparation: People at this stage are ready to plan with a detailed list of things they will start doing to make the changes they want to make.
Action: People at this stage are taking the necessary actions to achieve their goals. They also continue to work at understanding their past behaviours while continuing to build their resilience to cope with life's challenges in healthier ways.
Maintenance: People at this stage are continuing to work on their plan by adding practical methods, building supportive relationships, and identifying new activities.
Understanding this process can help you:
anxiety
• prepare to take these steps • decide how you can best tackle them, and • follow through on your goals.
The Stages of Change can help match different tasks and tools for each stage which can help you develop your own roadmap to recovery & better mental health.
If you're ready to build better habits and foster better mental health, I'd love to hear from you. Drop me a line at info@redroofrecovery.com. Let's connect and start your journey together.Tanya MacIntyre is a certified CBT Practitioner, Mental Health Professional, and owner/operator of Red Roof Recovery.
DISCLAIMER: This content is not intended to constitute, or be a substitute for, medical diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard advice from your doctor, or delay in seeking it, because of something you have watched, read, or heard from anyone at Red Roof Recovery.
and stress in the colder months: a guide for seniors
ANNETTE GERDES, Sun Contributor
As the days grow shorter and colder, as the temperatures drop and the nights get longer, you might feel like a grumpy bear getting ready for hibernation. I know I do. These feelings can be overwhelming at times as the long winter months stretch ahead. As if this is not enough to deal with, BAM, the holidays hit. With all the cold and “festive cheer,” for many, a sense of feeling alone and anxiousness can cause stress and get in the way of celebration. Winter can bring more than just frost on the windows, it can also bring a few extra worries. Especially for some seniors, the transition to winter can be difficult, as it often leads to a reduction in physical activity, and an increased sense of isolation, especially for seniors without families. It can be harder to get out or get around leading to less social interactions as well as
less time outdoors, less sunshine, and less fresh air. No wonder you feel like a grumpy bear with all of these factors combined with holiday related concerns.
Understanding Seasonal Anxiety and Stress
Feelings of Isolation: With colder weather, its’s easier for some seniors to feel cut off from friends and family. We all get a bit of cabin fever, not wanting to leave the house or go out into the cold. Shovelling snow and going about our daily activities and chores can feel like a huge challenge. There is no shame in asking for help in the winter season. If you live in a house, hiring a snow removal company to salt stairs, and remove snow from your walkways and driveways can be the perfect solution. Coupled with the right footwear and outerwear, this will help keep you safe and more confident when going outdoors. If budget is an issue, then ask a family member or a neighbour if they can help through the snowy months. Most people love to help, they just are not sure how, so asking for what you need is a great idea. The same goes for groceries. If you still drive take a cab and ask the driver to carry groceries and assist you to the front door as well. Many grocery stores provide home delivery and often will allow you to order on-line or by phone. Just because it’s freezing outside doesn’t mean you have to
become a couch potato. Dance like nobody’s watching. Perhaps just watching a hallmark movie in your pj’s sipping hot coco or curling up with a good book can make you feel uplifted. If you are alone, create your own traditions, or reach out to your local retirement community or community centres in order to participate in their Christmas dinner and celebrations. You might even consider a short term winter stay at your local retirement residence, in order to enjoy company, a little pampering with meals etc., that could feel like a mini vacation.
Financial Concerns: Holiday expenses, coupled with fixed incomes, can add financial pressures. Simplify giving by opting for homemade items, like baked goods or knitted scarves, small gestures, a phone call, cards, and letters, or planning a future get together rather than material gifts, can all mean so much to so many.
Grief and Loss: The holidays may trigger memories of loved ones who are no longer here, leading to feelings of sadness or anxiety. Creating your own new traditions that incorporate some traditions that you shared in the past can solve this challenge. Grief is not about forgetting but celebrating the memory.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and other family members if possible, to help in the creation of new traditions.
Additional Tips for Managing Winter Months: Stay Active Indoors: While outdoor activities might be limited, there are plenty of ways to stay physically active indoors. Chair exercises, yoga, and stretching can help maintain mobility and release endorphins that combat stress, there are many options available on-line or on T.V.
Connect with Others: Isolation can increase feelings of anxiety, so stay connected with loved ones through phone calls, and video chats. Joining local seniors’ groups or activities, even virtually, will help foster a sense of community.
Plan for the Holidays: Christmas and other holiday celebrations can bring anxiety due to family expectations, loneliness, or financial strain. Small gestures mean the most. Knowing that this is a difficult time of year for some, try and adapt your plans and bolster your sense of well being and happiness.
Set Realistic Expectations:
The holiday season doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on the aspects you enjoy the most, whether that’s sharing a meal with family or a friend or reflecting on cherished memories. Let go of the pressure to do it all.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Be Mindful and Practice Techniques. Techniques such as deep breathing, medita-
tion, and muscle relaxation can be effective tools for reducing stress. Consider setting aside a few minutes each day to find a quiet spot in order to relax and decompress.
Light Therapy: For some seniors, reduced daylight in winter can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder, (SAD), a common type of temporary depression linked to the changing seasons and sun depravation.
Light therapy in which individuals sit near a light box for a set period of time each day, can alleviate symptoms. You can purchase a light box in most drugstores or order on-line. Consider talking to your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement.
When
To Seek Help
If feelings of anxiety or sadness become overwhelming, it’s important to seek help. Its ok to ask for help from a health care provider or counselor who specializes in senior mental health.
In Closing: I would like to say that this article is not meant to put a damper on the winter months or holiday season, but rather provide you with tools to manage them, should any of these issues arise. By staying safe, active, connected, and mindful, we can all enjoy the winter months and the season in a way that brings us COMFORT AND JOY
Annette Gerdes is the General Manager at the Goderich Place Retirement Residence
TANYA MACINTYRE, RED ROOF RECOVERY
Sun Contributor
OH, THE PLACES WE’LL
Once upon a time, we all visited zoos and attractions featuring marine animals without asking any questions about animal welfare, health, or exploitation. Those days, thank goodness, are mostly behind us. Today, attractions like Ontario’s own Marineland are being investigated and criticized, zoos are being held to much higher standards than before and visitors to these kinds of attractions are asking much harder questions than we once did.
All of which will explain why, when I as a travel journalist am invited to visit an attraction that features animals in captivity, it’s my challenging responsibility to determine if this is a legitimate enterprise or if it’s another example of exploitation or even cruelty.
So, I am delighted to report that, in my opinion, the Dolphin Research Center passes any ethics test with high, high marks. This is a place that is doing really good stuff, treating its marine charges with respect and utmost care, and educating thousands of people about our relationship with some of the amazing creatures that share this planet with us.
The Dolphin Research Center is located on Grassy Key in the Flor-
GO: A place where the animals really are job one
ida Keys, about halfway down that stunning Overseas Highway drive from Key Largo to Key West. We were guided around the facility by Allie Proskovec, the centre’s dedicated and enthusiastic director of media and marketing. She’s especially enthusiastic because the not-for-profit centre is in the midst of a significant expansion. Now, in many cases that might mean that the visitor centre is being enlarged, or a restaurant is being added. Not at the Dolphin Research Center where the focus is on the animals. This expansion means the area available to the dolphins is being enlarged by three times and the sea lion habitat is also being enlarged. Here, it’s all about the dolphins and the other creatures that are in the care of these very caring people. All of the animals – 27 dolphins, three sea lions, five birds and two African spurred tortoises – are rescue animals or born at the centre. They cannot be safely re-
leased into the wild. However, the centre also rescues, rehabilitates and releases animals. The centre is the only licensed marine-mammal rescue operation in the Keys, and the team includes a veterinarian. In addition to rescuing and rehabilitating dolphins, the staff also includes a manatee rescue team that rescues injured manatees, and then hands them off to medical facilities that treat these amazing mammals and return them to their natural habitat. There is no permanent manatee habitat at the Dolphin Research Center.
The centre offers many programs that allow human visitors to interact with the dolphins, including swimming with the animals.
But Proskovec stresses the fact that the dolphins are always the decisionmakers about what they choose to do or not to do. Fundamental to the mandate of the centre is the goal of demonstrating the remarkable intelligence of the marine creatures while imposing
no demands or causing any anxiety for the dolphins.
Dolphins live a long time – in the wild, typically until their late teens to mid 20s, but at the Research Center, it can be much longer. Proskovec introduced us to one of their residents who was 44 years old and a second who had now reached 50 years of age. Any dolphin born at the centre or rescued and brought there is guaranteed a lifelong home.
“We will never sell or trade an animal,” Proskovec said.
Marine-mammal rescue organizations often bring animals they save to the centre, especially young dolphins that have lost their mothers. We met a dolphin named Ranger who was rescued in the Gulf of Mexico off Texas whose mother had died. Ranger was about a year old at that time; now he is about four years old.
The marine-mammal trainers, education team and other staff members clearly have a warm,
personal relationship with the dolphins. They understand each animal’s personality and love to tell their stories. We met a dolphin named Jax who had suffered an attack by a shark. Jax survived but lost part of his dorsal fin.
The work at the centre goes beyond care for their charges and education of the public. There is much research carried out as well and the centre has working relationships with a number of educational and research organizations.
The entire team at the Dolphin Research Center is clearly over the moon about the expansion that is currently underway, and who can blame them? The last few years have not held that kind of promise for the centre. First, in 2017, Hurricane Irma devastated the Middle Keys area; staff at the centre were working at reduced pay just so there were enough funds to feed and care for the animals. Then came COVID; visitors stopped coming and, again, there was a financial crunch.
But the team never lost hope, never gave up and never lost sight of their first priority – to provide a home and optimal care for their aquatic charges. That perseverance has paid off as the centre now grows its facilities, its programs and its visitor numbers.
And those visitors can enjoy watching, meeting and even swimming with the dolphins, knowing this is a place where ethics and integrity are built into every decision.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@ golden.net.
PAUL KNOWLES Sun Contributor
The dolphin on the right, named Jax, suffered a shark attach which cost him some of his dorsal fin.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
Dolphins seem to have a whale of a time, entertaining their guests at the Dolphin Research Center.
Marine mammal trainers working with their aquatic friends.
Sunsets of Goderich
(ANDREW SIEGERS PHOTO)
Why did the ghost go to the party? Because he heard it was going
What do you call a witch’s garage? A broom closet!
Why
He
the vampire get a job at the blood bank?
What do you call a cleaning skeleton? The grim sweeper!
Why don’t mummies take vacations? They’re afraid they’ll relax and unwind!
What’s a ghost’s favorite dessert? I-scream!
Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field!
What do you get when you cross a vampire and a snowman? Frostbite!
How do you fix a broken pumpkin? With a pumpkin patch!
What kind of music do mummies listen to? Wrap music!
This
Quote was written by 10 year old Greyson.
HAPPY HALLOWEEN
COMING EVENTS
BLOOD DONATION
On Thursday, October 31 from 1 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Knights of Columbus Hall. Book at blood.ca or call 1-888-236-6283.
TRICK OR TREAT AT THE MUSEUM
On Thursday, October 31 from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Huron County Museum.
Young trick or treaters and their guardians are invited to join in for some Halloween fun. Stop by in costume to warm up and ring the ghost train bell on Huron’s haunted indoor Main Street. Admission is free.
FUN DARTS
On Thursday, October 31, Thursday, October 7 and Thursday, October 14 at 7 p.m. at the Goderich Legion. Admission is $5.
Runs every Thursday evening throughout the month of November.
CRIBBAGE
On Friday, November 1 and Friday, November 8 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Goderich Legion. Weekly cribbage on Fridays. Cost to play is $2. Everyone is welcome.
Runs every Friday afternoon throughout the month of November.
CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON AND BAKE SALE
On Saturday, November 2 from 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Berea-By-The-Water Lutheran Church. The cost is $12.50 per person, plus there will be a bake sale.
Organizers will be offering five types of soups, and four types of sandwiches.
Goderich and are residents are welcome to attend and get into the festive spirit.
ANNUAL TEXTILE SHOW AND SALE
On Saturday, November 2 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday, November 3 from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. at Huron County Museum.
The Goderich Quilters’ Guild presents quilted items of various sizes in its annual show and sale. Admission is free.
MISS EMILY AT THE LIVERY
On Saturday, November 2, Miss Emily will perform a set. Doors open at 7 p.m., and show begins at 7:30 p.m.
For tickets visit festival of small halls website. Cost is $29 (plus HST and service fees).
SMART 4-POINT PROGRAM
Held on Sunday, November 3 and Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. at 125 Wolfe Street. This is an effective doctor-endorsed and evidence-based
CLASSIFIEDS
MAE FUGLSANG
MAY 1930 - OCTOBER 2024
It is with sadness we announce the passing of our Mother Muriel Mae Fuglsang (nee Baker) at Exeter Villa on October 18th at the age of 94.
Lovingly remembered by her daughters Louise Schaefer and Helen (Tom) Freeman. Mom was a dear Nana to Anne (Glenn) Ferguson and Adam (Czarina) Paquette. She was the proud Great grandmother to Haley (Jesse Deans) Ferguson and Chloe (Taylor Woolcott) Ferguson. Mom was delighted that she lived to meet her Great great granddaughter Ella Woolcott.
Mom is survived by her Sister in law Marg Baker and her children Scott (Deb) and Lisa (Will) and their children. Predeceased by her parents John and Muriel Baker and her brother Glenn Baker.
The family would like to extend our appreciation to all the staff at Goderich Place and Exeter Villa for the wonderful care they gave Mom.
Cremation has taken place. There will not be a service in accordance to our Mom’s request.
As expressions of sympathy please consider a donation to either The Canadian Cancer Society or The Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.
TREES: Shade trees, Fruit trees, Apple, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Sweet and Sour Cherries, Apricot, Nectarines, Blueberry, Haskopp, Black Chokeberry, Grapes etc. Lots of Spruce, Pine, Cedars for windbreaks and privacy hedges, Sizes 1 to 6+. Flowering shrubs and much more. Come check us out Mon-Sat 7:00am - 6:00pm Martin's Nursery 42661 Orangehill Road Wroxeter (1 concession north of Wroxeter on Belmore Line)
Office desk, Bullet top table desk, 60 inches long 30 inches wide, Natural Cherry on Cherry veneer solid cherry headers, three metal legs one black two silver colour. Newly finished, some flaws in the veneer. $75.00.
CASH ONLY
St. Marys area
Call 519-272-5951 and leave a message.
Office Desk top, 60 inches long and 30 inches wide, Medium cherry colour on Maple veneer, solid Maple headers, newly finished. No legs or base supplied, you can obtain legs from Richleau, Amazon, Wayfair. Can be made into a table desk with legs. $50.00. CASH ONLY
St. Marys area
Call 519-272-5951 and leave a message.
Office desk, Bullet top table desk, 72 inches long 36 inches wide, Black Ebony on Oak veneer, solid oak headers, three legs, one leg is solid Oak, two legs are metal, black. Newly finished. $150.00.
CASH ONLY
St.
area
Call 519-272-5951 and leave a message.
guide to recover from mental health conditions, including addictions.
It is a powerful peer-support meeting that can help improve lives on a holistic level, focusing on solutions rather than labels or diagnoses.
No cost. Accepting small donations if able.
BINGO AT THE LEGION
On Sunday, November 3 and Sunday, November 10 at 12 p.m.
Join the upstairs of the Legion when doors open at 12 p.m. Early bird game at 1:25 p.m. Canteen open.
Last Sunday of every month is a $1,000 jackpot.
NINTENDO SWITCH FREE PLAY
On Tuesday, November 5 and Tuesday, November 12 from 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. at Goderich Library. This is a drop-in program. No registration required. Admission is free.
EUCHRE AT THE LEGION
On Tuesday, November 5 and Tuesday, November 12 at 7 p.m.
Join the Tuesday night Euchre party at the Legion. Admission is $5.
Participants need a partner to play.
GODERICH JAMMERS
On Wednesday, November 6 and Wednesday, November 13 at 7 p.m.
Join other musicians and music enthusiasts at the Goderich Legion for a jam night.
IODE MAPLE LEAF CHAPTER CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOUR
On Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.
There will be five beautiful homes, decorated for Christmas by local businesses for guests to tour. Complimentary cider and cookies will be available at the Huron County Museum.
Tickets are $25 (cash), and can be purchased at the IODE Opportunity Shop, Fincher’s and All Around the House in Goderich, as well as Lucknow Pharmasave and by EFT: iodemapleleaf@gmail.com
Proceeds from this event will support the Huron Hospice Bender House in Central Huron.
SNOWFLAKE BAZAAR
On Friday, November 15 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Goderich Place Retirement Residence.
Featuring unique vendors, crafts, jewellery, baked goods, door prizes and more.
Share the joy and bring a toy donation for Salvation Army.
CHRISTMAS BAZAAR AND BAKE SALE
On Saturday, November 30 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at First Baptist Church.
New gifts, crafts, baking and gently used Christmas items.
Proceeds go to the local food bank and church repairs.
Goderich Sun
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