Dear Editor,

To the citizen of Saugeen Shores, we have completed the 28th running of the Rotary Huron Shore Run with another successful year added to the history of the event. Again it was a wonderful, clear day with the right temperature and no rain. All this started as a small run along the lake years ago and now we have grown to an event that this year hosted 750 entrants. It has become a community event enjoyed by local residents and visitors alike.

I would like to thank all those who participated by first entering the event and then soliciting sponsorships to raise money for the event's supported groups. The bulk of the funds are raised for Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation (SMHF). Without our hospital we are not a growing community. How many people can say they have not used the facility? With the money raised we ensure that our hospital remains current and offers quality healthcare close to home.

This event does not run itself. We had over 80 volunteers who help in ensuring participants were given a safe and friendly environment. I thank all for your support at all levels of the event. Besides the day's volunteers there needs to be a dedicated working group to organize the event. This group is a strong committee that works together and gets the job done. Thanks for a wonderful job.

In supporting the Foundation, our major costs are covered by our sponsorships. Without them the event would not be what it is today. I thank them all and ask all citizens to support our local businesses and groups in our community just as they support us.

The partnerships that we have established over the years are very important to our success, including the Town of Saugeen Shores, Bruce County Tourism, Grey-Bruce Health Unit and other groups. We hope that the local Business Improvement Areas (BIA) will continue to assist in making this a true community event and a healthy weekend in Saugeen Shores

I could go on and mention many more but I would like to conclude by offering my heartfelt thanks to all those involved and everyone who participated.

John Van Bastelaar,
Rotary Huron Shore Run