Aliens invade Hespeler??? Plan to come to the AGM!

Earlier this week I was taking my dog for her early morning walk and heard the scariest noises I've ever heard....loud sounds of metal and concrete being ripped and torn and crashing all around. It sounded something like what you'd expect in a "War of the Worlds" type scenario. I met another dog-walker and she expressed the same sentiments - eerie stuff, and what the heck was going on?!? Were aliens actually invading Hespeler?
Well, upon investigation, this is what  all the noise was all about:

The water tower was being dismantled!
The next day, as the strange sounds continued,  I met another fellow dog-walker who told me it hasn't been in use for a couple of years now. He lamented the fact that (he thought) it was one of the last remnants of something that actually said the word "Hespeler" on it.

I told him not the worry, that he need only go downtown and look at the letters in the stonework above Gifted's entrance (the old Post Office), to see the name Hespeler. We won't ever cover up or otherwise remove that name on our landmark building, never fear!

On another note, mark your calendars for the BIA's Annual General Meeting - Wednesday January 20th at Ernie's Roadhouse. Social time starts at 6 pm (with eats!) and the meeting itself starts at 6:30 pm.

And lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone an absolutely delightful Christmas. And a most happy, healthy, prosperous 2010.
- Deb

The BIA supports the Santa Claus parade too!!!!

I'm really happy that the Company of Neighbours and the Hespeler Optimists support Russell Bygrave and the Hespeler Santa Claus parade. The work of these two fine organizations and the people involved really help create a sense of community in our area.

I wish, however, that the BIA had gotten a little recognition in Thursday's article in the Cambridge Times, "Santa Heading to Hespeler" (Dec 3rd).

For those that might not know, we also support the parade  - to the tune of $1000 every year. That might not seem like much, as we don't know how much it costs to mount an event like this. But it is a significant portion of our budget (about 7%) and we feel it is important to dedicate that money to this particular event. Every year we cheerfully hand over the money we have allocated to Mr. Bygrave's parade, no questions asked.

And every year, a fine parade magically happens, and kids of all ages line the streets with eyes lit up, taking in the wonderful seasonal sights and sounds. Keep up the good work Mr. Bygrave and friends! The BIA supports your endeavours.

 - Deb