Back in mid-May, the much beloved Bear River Windmill was demolished due to safety concerns. Regrets were more than sentimental. After all, the windmill had housed the Bear River Visitor Information Centre, and the 2010 summer season was fast approaching. Another venue had to be found and prepared, and quickly.

Volunteers stepped up to the plate. A portion of the Oakdene Centre was renovated to house the new VIC. Inside, an impressive counter area was constructed from recycled old doors, a small gallery area featuring local art and handicraft items was created, a display featuring Native Mi'kmaq items has pride of place in the centre of the VIC,  and attractive stands for brochures and rack cards were installed. This is an amazing story of successful community adaptation, and a lesson in what can quickly happen when committed volunteers work together.