NEW BRIDGE UNDERGOING TESTING

Site work for the new Bayfield Bridge project commenced in September of 2019 and the temporary Bailey Bridge came into use in mid-April 2020. Almost two years later the project is nearing completion with the hope that the new bridge will be opened to traffic mid-April. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The latest update provided through the Municipality of Bluewater regarding the progress of the new Bayfield Bridge offers a possibility of it opening to traffic in mid-April, several weeks past the earlier hoped for date of mid-January.
A highlight of the new bridge design is the arch, to the untrained eye, and those who drive by the bridge regularly, it would appear that all is complete. However, Bluewater has received notice that some off-site laboratory testing is required to ensure that the components of the arch meet design standards. Tests of this nature are not unusual and began in mid-March with a plan for completion in early April.
Following test completion, the plan is to have traffic moved to the new bridge by mid-April and the temporary Bailey Bridge removed shortly thereafter. The plan would then be to construct the cantilevered sidewalk on the west side of the bridge during the more favorable weather months of April and May.
SPRING DATE SET FOR FESTIVAL
Bayfield Arena Community Partners Association (BACPA) and the Bayfield Community Centre Team (BCCT) are gearing up for the return of a highly anticipated spring event. The Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival is back for year six on May 14th.
“The Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival is scheduled back to its normal weekend and now at full capacity,” said Bill Whetstone, co-event chair. “This is our major fundraiser and 100 per cent of the proceeds go back into youth sports, programs, equipment and subsidies at our facility so everyone can play.”
Whetstone went on to say that, just like everyone else, BCCT and BACPA have been hit hard by the pandemic and the organizers are hoping that people will return to support the festival that raises funds for the not-for-profit organization now running the Bayfield Community Centre. He would also encourage newcomers to attend.
“If you’ve never been, consider coming to this great event,” he said. “There are 22 vendors signed up to participate and three bands scheduled to play.”
The event will run from 2-9 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person and will include eight food tickets and eight drink tickets.
Tickets are available now at Eventbrite.ca (Bayfield Beer & Food Festival), at ShopBike Coffee Roasters on Main Street, or by calling Whetstone at 519 955-0682. Check Facebook at @ Bayfield Beer & Food Festival for more information.
FIVE LITTLE INDIANS WINS BAYFIELD READS
Bayfield Reads 2022 took place on Sunday, March 27th on ZOOM and was very well attended.
After much deliberation, made more difficult by everyone’s outstanding presentations, this year’s Bayfield Reads winner was “Five Little Indians” by Michelle Good, defended by Abby Armstrong. The four judges tasked with making the decision were: Chris Walker, Peter Brent, Lorelei Lingard and Carmen Davies.
The People’s Choice Award, chosen by popular vote of the participants, went to “What Strange Paradise” by Omar El Akkad, defended by Rachael Rishworth.
In addition to the winners, this year’s Canada Reads books up for defense were: “Scarborough” by Catherine Hernandez, defended by Sally Leitch; “Life in the City of Dirty Water” by Clayton Thomas-Müller, defended by Duncan McGregor; and “Washington Black” by Esi Edugyan, defended by Ralph Blasting. Organizers noted that all of the defenders did a fabulous job defending their respective books.
The Village Bookshop partners are very grateful to everyone who participated in this year’s Bayfield Reads. All of the wonderful contender books are available at the shop. Please keep an eye on the events page at villagebookshop.ca for more upcoming events.
SECTIONS OF FAIR LOOKING FOR HELP
Helpers are the lifeblood of all organizations and a great way to meet new people. The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) hosts an annual agricultural fair, this year set for Aug. 19-21, and recently they had their first volunteers contact them to assist at the gate and help with the Rise2Fame Youth Talent Show. Helpers are welcome in other areas as well.
“We welcome people who would like to provide assistance with the parade,” said Doug Yeo, representing the BAS. “This event brings in bands and Shriner groups as well as encouraging local businesses, community groups and individuals to be part of the parade. Bill Whetstone has coordinated the parade for many years and could use helpers with lining up floats, closing off roads or contacting interested participants. The parade brings crowds to the Main Street and business to the stores and as such is an important feature for the fair and the downtown businesses. Help ensure the parade this year is one of the best in many years.”
Help is also needed with the baking section of the fair. Assistance is sought for contacting some of the regular supporters of prizes but definitely while entries come in. This section also has the perks of sometimes getting small samples of prize-winning entries. Jean Dunn would like to build up a set of helpers to ensure this section is ready to receive all the baked, canned and pickled entries this summer.
The Art and Photography section needs someone who is good at organizing and problem solving. There are helpers to assist with putting up the entries and displaying everything.
“If you believe that the arts need to be promoted and visible to the community, this part of the fair shows the talent that this community has,” said Yeo. “Several of the high school students who have submitted entries in the past have gone on to arts programs after graduating.”
According to Yeo, there are many opportunities for students who want to help with the fair as well as others who want to ensure this community event runs smoothly.
“Put the fair in your summer plans,” Yeo concluded. He invites those interested to check the BAS website and fill out the section under ‘Volunteer Today’ or just send a note to info@bayfieldfair.ca.
PSA FROM THE BAYFIELD PACC
A Public Service Announcement (PSA) from members of the Bayfield People and Canine Community (PACC):
“Yes folks, it’s that time of year again. The melting snow has revealed the treasures our dogs have left behind over the winter season. Of course, this could be mitigated by employing consistent scooping practices throughout the year, no matter the season. Nevertheless, let us resolve to ensure that we all move forward with the intent to keep our community clean and healthy. You will notice that we have once again placed our reminder signage throughout the village. Please take that message to heart and be sure to tell your visiting friends as well,” said Suzan Johnson, representing the Bayfield PACC.
Although it may not look like it right now, spring has arrived and with it comes a calendar of future events that promise to lift spirits and provide fun times for residents and visitors alike. Bayfield PACC plans to participate in the Bayfield Lions Home and Garden Show slated for Apr. 29th to May 1st.
“Look for our community booth at the arena. We would love to engage you in a conversation relating to our goal of a leash free play area,” said Johnson.
Bayfield PACC invites people in the community to mark their calendars for other spring community events such as Earth Day Clean Up (Apr. 22) and the Bayfield Lions Walk for Dog Guides in early June.
Unfortunately, with the advent of warm weather, comes the dreaded “tick season”.
“Do yourself and your canine companion a favor by regularly checking for these nasty pests. Your vet can provide you with the information and means to keep your pet healthy. With that in mind, get your walking shoes out and seize the day! Don’t forget your leash,” concluded Johnson.
“Bayfield People and Canine Community, Inc. (Bayfield PACC) is a registered not-for-profit in Ontario with a volunteer executive management team and volunteer board of directors. Bayfield PACC is supported by an active group of responsible dog owners and volunteers in the community and by like-minded friends of Bayfield PACC on Facebook and Instagram. For more information please visit: www.bayfieldpacc.com.”
APRIL HIKE DETAILS FROM BRVTA
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) is pleased to announce three events for April: “Agriculture and Nature in Harmony”, Apr. 9; “The Woods are Waking Up”, Apr. 16; and Bayfield’s Eighth Annual Earth Day Litter Walk, Apr. 22.
Huron County is the most productive agricultural region in Ontario and also home to beautiful natural areas. Did you ever wonder how they coexist? Wayne Cantelon is a third-generation Huron County Farmer. Nathan Schoelier oversees stewardship and conservation programs for the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. Join them for “Agriculture and Nature in Harmony” a hike in the Linfield Conservation Area on Saturday, Apr. 9 at 2 p.m.
Participants are asked to meet at 37940 Pavillion Road in Bluewater. The Area is west of the Pavillion Road and Goshen Line intersection, southwest of Varna and north of Zurich. This is an easy walk through woodlots and open trails for about 2 km and will last about 90 minutes.
“The Woods are Waking Up”, with environmentalist Michele Martin will take place along the Woodland Trail in Bayfield on Saturday, Apr. 16 starting at 11 a.m. Martin has supervised environmental education programs in Toronto, Waterloo and the Seychelle Islands. A regular visitor to Bayfield, the BRVTA is excited to welcome her as a guest hike leader. As the forest wakes up from a long winter, Martin will show participants what to look for on the Woodland Trail. Those who take part are asked to meet at the David Street trail head. A map can be found at www.bayfieldtrails.com/woodland-trail.
Bayfield businesses, visitors and residents of all ages are invited to join the BRVTA for their Eighth Annual Earth Day Litter Walk. This annual spring clean-up event will be held on Friday, Apr. 22 starting at 2 p.m. with Clan Gregor Square the base of operations. Participants are asked to wear gloves and brightly colored clothing or borrow one of the BRVTA’s safety vests. Organizers will provide garbage bags and people can choose the area in the Village where they want to pick up litter. Registration will take place from 2-3 p.m. with garbage to be returned by 4 p.m.
“Together we can keep our streets clean, protect the environment from harmful plastics and household waste, and enjoy an afternoon in the great outdoors,” said Ralph Blasting, hike coordinator for BRVTA.
April hikes are open to the public without registration. Dogs on leash are welcome. For more information on any event, contact hike coordinator Blasting by calling 519 525-3205 or emailing rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
PEACHES RESCUED FROM HARSH WINTER
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has helped hundreds of feral and abandoned cats find their forever homes but many are still waiting.
Peaches is the Adopt-a-BFF cat of the week.
Peaches has earned her right to a warm and cozy home with her forever family. Periodically through the winter she would show up at a farm. She was very timid when approaching the farm but hunger soon won out over fear. She was fed by the farm family and they were eventually able to trap her.
She proved to be very trap savvy and it was not an easy job but with perseverance, they were able to catch her and bring her to the Rescue. She has only been at the Rescue for a short period of time but seems to be enjoying being indoors with access to a soft bed. Peaches appears to be very curious about the goings-on in the shelter and does not seem to be intimidated by the number of cats that are equally curious about her. Once Peaches is vetted she will be ready to go to her forever home where cold winter nights outdoors will be but a fading memory.
If Peaches is the gal for you please email bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com for more information.
The adoption fee is now $200. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Donations are also always appreciated. E-transfers can be sent to the Rescue’s email or email to arrange for a drop off or pick up of donations. Cheques can be mailed to Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines, P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.
RECREATION MASTER PLAN
The Municipality of Bluewater is excited to announce the start of the Recreation Master Plan project! The Recreation Master Plan will help guide Council and staff in the provision of recreation (parks, trails, waterfront, programs, culture, and service delivery) over the next 15 years. This will include consideration of cost recovery and revenue generation to ensure the Plan is both implementable and sustainable.
Bluewater has contracted thinc design to manage the project and develop the Plan. In preparing the plan, thinc design will conduct an extensive community and stakeholder engagement process to ensure residents across Bluewater and a broad range of recreation users and service providers (both traditional and non-traditional) are considered in its development.
The project will be completed in four phases: Phase 1 Background Review (March), Phase 2 Community Consultation (April-August), Phase 3 Needs Assessment (May-July) and Phase 4 Draft Master Plan and Implementation Strategy (July-September). In September, the Draft Master Plan will be presented to Council and the community for final input.
The community engagement process has been kick-started online with the launch of the Recreation Master Plan Community Consultation Hub, graciously hosted by Huron County. This is an online space where the community and stakeholders are encouraged to ask questions and share their ideas on all things, recreation! This could include parks, facilities, trails, programs, activities, events and service delivery. The Hub also highlights key milestones and project updates. In mid-April, the Hub will host a link to an Online Survey where community input is integral to the Plan’s successful development.
The people behind the project welcome individual’s thoughts and participation in the process. Please visit the Municipality of Bluewater’s Recreation Master Plan Community Consultation Hub to learn more: connectedcountyofhuron.ca/bluewater-recreation-masterplan
BLUEWATER NEWS
The office of the Municipality of Bluewater Council has submitted the following to the Bayfield Breeze as highlights of their regular meeting of council held on March 21.
- Accepted two resignations from the Heritage Advisory Committee and directed staff to post a public notice, for four weeks, inviting citizens to submit confidential online applications for the two vacant seats.
- Authorized the Manager of Development Services/Chief Building Official to proceed with involvement in the AMO/LAS-MPAC pilot project, including implementation of Cloudpermit EPermitting Software.
- Accepted the recommendation from BM Ross and Associates Limited to award the joint tender between the Municipality of Bluewater and the County of Huron for the Co Rd 84 Watermain and Paving Contract No. HC-22-301, to Birnam Excavating Ltd. for a total contract price of $10,256,822.19 excluding HST but in acknowledgment that Contract Provisional Items 10 being the Blind Line Water Main, will not be executed without future Council approval; and that Provisional Items 11 and 12 (the replacement of sidewalk, Goshen to Fredrick on the Northside of Main and Goshen to Quimby on the South side of Main) be included in the Zurich Main Street and Water Project and funded from the Invest in Ontario Act funds currently in reserves.
- Approved the resignation of Dietrich Engineering Ltd from the Highlands III Municipal Drain Project and that R.J. Burnside and Associates Limited be appointed to investigate and prepare a report for the Highlands III Municipal Drain Project under section 8(1) of the Drainage Act R.S.O. 1990.
LIONS CLUB
Are there Lions in your attic?
This year the Bayfield Lions’ Club members are celebrating 75 years of service to the community. In addition to several big projects to commemorate the occasion, they are gathering items to display at an upcoming event. And the community is requested to help!
“Even a quick glance through our history shows many names that began with founding our club in 1947, helped with building the arena (twice), initiated different area programs, and supported community efforts in countless ways. The descendants of most of these people are still in the area,” said Kathy Gray, with the Bayfield Lions’ Club. “For that reason, if you have pictures, videos or stories of Lions or Lioness in your home, please share with me. I will be sure to return your property to you, or you could even scan photos and email with the description.”
Email bayfieldlions@gmail.com to share items.
GIRL GUIDE COOKIES
Forget Robins, Tundra Swans and Maple Syrup, nothing signals spring quite like Classic Chocolate and Vanilla Cream Sandwich Cookies! That’s right, Girl Guide cookie season has arrived.
Cookies are available now from the membership for $5 a box. Please note grocery store chains will not have cookies for sale and they will not be available online this campaign – only in-person!
Money raised helps Bayfield Guiding subsidize activities and outings for their membership. Anyone who would like to purchase a box, or two, is asked to contact Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.
SPRING THAW
Bayfield Brewing is hosting the Bayfield Spring Thaw on Saturday, Apr. 2 to celebrate another year of skating in the Bayfield Arena.
During the event, they will donate to the Bayfield Facility Initiative Team (BFIT) from the sales of their Snook Stout created in honor of hockey player, Ryan O’Reilly. This program continues with the support of the O’Reilly family. BFIT is in a private-public partnership with the Municipality of Bluewater for the Bayfield Arena and Community Centre.
People are invited to attend the event from 1- 5 pm. Tickets are available now for $40, detail on what this fee includes can be found at https://www.eventbrite.ca
Bayfield Brewing is also celebrating that their Snook Stout cans have made it into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Phil Pritchard, the curator of the Hockey Hall of Fame, reached out to them recently asking that they donate to their display in Toronto.
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
The Bayfield Bridge Club is inviting new people to come out for a few friendly games of Bridge on Wednesday afternoons at the Bayfield Lions’ Community Building.
The cards are shuffled at 1 p.m. Players do not need a partner to participate in these “drop-in” sessions. The cost to join in the fun is $4.
All levels of players are welcome to take part in the games that are played year-round at the building located at 6 Municipal Road in the village.
OPTIMIST CLUB
People often ask if they can add an engraved brick to the path around the Splash Pad in Clan Gregor Square and members of the Optimist Club of Bayfield are pleased to announce that there is further opportunity to have a name added to the circle in 2022.
The engraved pavers in Clan Gregor Square are a reminder of how great area residents and visitors are when it comes to supporting such projects as the Playground and the Splash Pad.
“In Memoriam” stones for loved ones as well as “just because” stones can be ordered with the work being done on site later in 2022 using the same two brick sizes that are already installed around the Splash Pad. The cost of these engraved bricks will be medium, $90; and large, $110. The plan is to have the bricks engraved in late May just prior to opening the Splash Pad.
Anyone with an interest in adding a brick can contact Mike Dixon via email at mikedixon@tcc.on.ca or by calling 519 955-5254 for further information.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Knox Presbyterian Church, Bayfield has returned to in-person Sunday Services, with social distancing and masks, as before. They will also continue to offer the 11 a.m. service on ZOOM and YouTube, for those who are unable to attend in-person.
For a ZOOM link to this special service, as well as regular services, please visit the church website: knoxbayfield.ca or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/KnoxBayfield.
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Trinity St. James Anglican Church in Bayfield has returned to in-person services on both Sunday and Wednesday mornings. In keeping with COVID-19 protocols, worshippers must pre-register to attend the services that begin at 11 a.m and 10:30 a.m. respectively.
In light of the ongoing pandemic, those wishing to attend will be required to observe public health measures such as, wearing a mask and maintaining a safe physical distance from other worshippers.
To pre-register please contact the church warden, Godfrey Heathcote by calling 519 565-5824 or via e-mail at godfrey.heathcote@dal.ca
Looking ahead, during Easter the congregation of Trinity St. James will be participating in joint services with their sister Parish in Seaforth and the community is invited to attend.
The Maundy Thursday service will be held on Apr. 14 at Trinity St. James starting at 6 p.m. followed by the Good Friday service on Apr. 15 at Parish of the Holy Spirit, Seaforth at 10 a.m. Easter Sunday will be observed at Trinity St. James at 11 a.m. on Apr. 17.
PARAMEDICS THANKED
The County of Huron commends its Emergency Services Department and Paramedic Team for the exceptional services they have provided since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This team has worked quietly behind the scenes, and helped long-term care and retirement homes in Huron stay safe and healthy as they face the challenges brought on by COVID-19.
When requested, Huron County Paramedics have gone into local long-term care and retirement homes to aid with outbreak support, COVID-19 surveillance testing, fit testing PPE for staff, and to offer on-site vaccination clinics for residents and staff. This team even helped by providing resident care work in some circumstances.
Direct support inside long-term care and retirement homes is not normal operations for County of Huron Emergency Services. However, with the ongoing pressures created by COVID-19 Huron County Paramedics were there, providing support to long-term care residents and staff, on some of the most challenging days of the pandemic.
“The work that we have done with these individual Homes has een a great asset to both Paramedic Services and Long-Term Care staff,” said Chief of Emergency Services, Jeff Horseman. “The relationships, understanding, and support has been second to none for everyone involved and I believe it has strengthened our Paramedic sense of community. We are so happy and proud of what we have been able to do in these Homes.”
The County of Huron Emergency Services Department has also supported local COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics, offered programming to vulnerable individuals at the Huron Out of the Cold emergency shelter, and much more, in addition to their regular first responder services for Huron County residents.
“The County’s Paramedic Team have demonstrated exemplary service for the Huron community over the past two years,” said Huron County Warden, Glen McNeil. “Providing the highest quality of care, the Emergency Services Department has worked to support many of Huron’s residents in high risk settings. On behalf of Huron County Council, I offer a wholehearted thank you to this Team.”
County of Huron Paramedic Services have supported the following Long-Term Care and Retirement Homes, with varying service levels, over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic: Blue Water Rest Home, Zurich; Exeter Villa, Fordwich Village Nursing Home, Goderich Place, Huronlea Home for the Aged, Brussels; Huronview Home for the Aged, Clinton; and Seaforth Manor.
Emergency Services continues to support the community, including long-term care, in 2022, as needed.
PLAYHOUSE LAUNCHES FIFTIETH SEASON
Open the doors and cue the stage lights! The historic Huron Country Playhouse will finally welcome audiences back to the Mainstage and newly named South Huron Stage (formerly Playhouse II) in Grand Bend this year. The venue’s two stages will be filled with memorable music, entertaining stories, joyful laughter, heartfelt applause, and maybe even a few tears as audiences, artists, volunteers, musicians, backstage crew, and more celebrate the return of live theatre with five productions on stage during the summer season, which will run from June 23 to Sept. 4.
It is a landmark season for the Playhouse as the iconic summer theatre destination celebrates 50 years of theatre in Grand Bend. Over 230 productions have been staged since the theatre’s inaugural season in 1972.
“Commemorating the longevity of the Huron Country Playhouse means that much more after all we’ve been through over the last few years,” said Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment, Alex Mustakas. “We encourage audiences to make a special trip to Grand Bend – hit the beach, visit local restaurants, play a round of golf, tour the wineries nearby, stay over at one of the many first-rate area accommodations, and of course, see a show or two to mark this momentous anniversary. Years from now we’ll all talk about where we were, and what shows we saw, the year that theatre came back.”
Fiddler on the Loose will bring its high-energy musical prowess to kick off the 50th Anniversary Season in Grand Bend. Anchored by fiddler and showman Jesse Grandmont, this gregarious musical variety show features over 60 songs running the gamut of genres including, “Dust in The Wind,” “Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “Footloose,” “Tennessee Waltz,” “Orange Blossom Special,” and many more. Fiddler on the Loose will run June 23 to July 9 on the Mainstage.
Audiences in need of a few good laughs are bound to get them with the outrageous British farce It Runs in the Family running from July 20 to Aug. 6 on the Mainstage. A renowned neurologist’s indiscreet past catches up with him at the most inopportune time, forcing the doctor to do anything (and everything!) to save his precious reputation. Frantic, funny, and completely outrageous, this rib-tickling farce proves once and for all that laughter truly is the best medicine.
The hills will be alive with The Sound of Music as Rodgers and Hammerstein’s treasured musical brings the Mainstage summer season to a close. Featuring the memorable songs: “My Favorite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” “Edelweiss,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” and the glorious title song, this family favorite follows aspiring nun Maria as she leaves the convent to govern the seven mischievous children of Captain von Trapp. Renowned as one of the most popular musicals of all time, The Sound of Music will entertain all generations – kids and grandparents alike – from Aug. 17 to Sept. 4 on the Mainstage.
Over on the South Huron Stage, Good Ol’ Country Gospel will bring its soul-stirring ballads and spirited songs of praise to audiences from July 20 to Aug. 6. Featuring glorious arrangements and heavenly voices, this uplifting celebration shines a new light on spiritual favorites including: “Amazing Grace,” “Peace in the Valley,” “How Great Thou Art,” “When the Saints Go Marching In,” “I Saw the Light,” and many more.
Then, The Sweet Delilah Swim Club brings Southern-fried humor to Grand Bend to wrap up the season on the South Huron Stage. Five women who met years ago on their college swim team set aside a long weekend every summer to reminisce and reconnect. Free from husbands, kids and jobs, they meet at the same beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer Banks to catch up, laugh, and offer advice on everything from men, sex, and marriage, to parenting, divorce, and aging. Part Steel Magnolias, part Designing Women with just a hint of Golden Girls, this fresh and funny friendship comedy is on stage from Aug.18 to Sept. 4.
Creative teams and casting will be announced at a later date.
In addition to the five professional shows on stage at this beloved summer hot spot, the popular Youth Pre-Professional Production Program will move to Grand Bend giving aspiring young performers from the area the opportunity to perform a one-hour version of Disney’s Frozen Jr. from Aug. 9-13. Frozen Jr. will be performed by kids for kids with the intention of giving local youth the chance to participate in and learn more about theatre.
“It’s exciting and emotional at the same time because we’ve waited so long for the return of live entertainment,” said Mustakas. “That said, full recovery will be a multi-year effort, so this season looks a little different. There are one or two fewer shows as we cautiously resume operations, but the top-quality entertainment experience and customer service audiences have come to expect remain the same.”
Since the beginning of the pandemic, Drayton Entertainment has made health and safety a top priority. The charitable arts organization was one of the first theatres across the country to close its doors in March of 2020 to prevent the spread of coronavirus. That commitment continues as the company carefully enacts its reopening strategy. Although the Government of Ontario has lifted restrictions for theatres, allowing for 100 percent capacity, Drayton Entertainment recognizes that patrons have different degrees of comfort.
With the aim of making the return to live theatre as easy as possible for everyone, the award-winning theatre organization will offer show schedules with varying capacities and protocols that gradually change as the season progresses.
For June and July, audiences can choose from performances at 100 percent capacity with no proof of vaccination required, limited capacity (33 percent reduced) with no proof of vaccination required, and limited capacity (33 percent reduced) with proof of vaccination required. For August through the end of the season, audiences can choose from performances at 100 percent capacity with no proof of vaccination required and limited capacity (33 percent reduced) with no proof of vaccination required. The Drayton Entertainment Duty of Care adheres to local and provincial health guidelines and is subject to change in response to current conditions throughout the season.
Tickets are on sale exclusively to members by phone now. Tickets are on sale to everyone by phone, in person at select Box Office locations, and online 24/7 at www.huroncountryplayhouse.com beginning on Monday, Apr. 4. To order by phone, please call 519 238-6000 or toll-free at 1-855-372-9866.
For more information about Drayton Entertainment’s complete 2022 Season on all seven stages, please visit www.draytonentertainment.com.
NEW CHAIRS FOR ABCA

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) has a new Chair and Vice Chair. Dave Jewitt, of Central Huron, is the new Chair and Marissa Vaughan, of South Huron (representing South Huron and Perth South on the ABCA Board) is the new Vice Chair. They were elected at ABCA’s Annual Meeting in February. (Submitted photo)
PUBLIC HEALTH
The Huron Perth Public Health website is updated regularly with confirmed case counts received.
“Our online case reporting is not a real-time tool but is meant to keep the community informed on trends we are seeing,” explains Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Miriam Klassen.
For the latest statistics on COVID-19 cases in Huron and Perth Counties and also the percentage of people vaccinated please visit: www.hpph.ca
RECONNECTING SENIORS
Want to rediscover your resilience? Are you an older adult preparing to re-engage in your community? “Reconnecting Seniors with Resilience in Huron County” may be the perfect workshop series for you.
This three-week program will be held from 1-2:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays starting on Apr. 4 with in-person and remote options available. The workshop is free and is being sponsored by the Seniors Community Grant Program 2021-22.
“Reconnecting Seniors with Resilience in Huron County” is being hosted in collaboration with the McKay Centre for Seniors and Connectedness Coaching Service Providers, and Seniors Action Quebec.
To register please visit empowerresilience.eventbrite.ca
ORGANIZING FOR UKRAINE
Anyone who is looking for ways to help support the people of Ukraine and local efforts to bring refugees to Huron County, the Huron County Library and Huron Immigration Partnership would like to invite people to attend one of four upcoming information sessions.
The locations, dates, times for these sessions are as follows: Exeter Public Library – Apr. 12, Seaforth Public Library – Apr. 13, and Virtual Session – Apr. 10, all three sessions at 7-8:30 p.m.; and Alice Munro Public Library in Wingham – Apr. 14, 2-3:30 p.m.
Pre-registration is required and can be done online by visiting: https://www.eventbrite.ca/
IMPACT FUNDING
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) announces the opening of their impact funding process, with expressions of interest (EOI) accepted until Apr. 15, for three-year funding beginning on Apr. 1, 2023.
“This is an exciting time for United Way and our region as we launch this application process,” said UWPH Director of Governance and Community Impact Megan Partridge. “While UWPH continues expanding our work in support of local communities, one of the cores of what we do is address local needs by providing funding to supported partners to help deliver programs to vulnerable people. We look forward to receiving EOIs to deliver programs and services in Perth and/or Huron County from a variety of organizations and groups.”
Three-year impact funding is intended to provide increased financial stability for ongoing projects and/or programs that are part of an organization’s over-arching structure and mission. UWPH gives everyone in our community an equal opportunity to submit program funding requests; organizations not currently funded by UWPH are welcome to apply. UWPH is currently limited to funding registered charities and qualified donees (as defined by the Canada Revenue Agency), but encourages any group or organization that does not feel they meet the criteria to reach out to Partridge.
EOI must be submitted by Apr. 15 at midnight. All applicants will be notified by Apr. 26 whether their EOIs are approved, declined or need further clarification. EOIs selected to move on in the process will receive access to the full application.
UWPH is committed to supporting applicants throughout the process. For any questions or help, please contact Megan Partridge at mpartridge@perthhuron.unitedway.ca or 519 271-7730, Ext. 225. For full impact funding guidelines visit, perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
FUTURE OF HOUSING
United Way Perth-Huron’s Social Research & Planning Council (SRPC) released a new Future of Housing report looking at the growing housing challenges faced across Perth-Huron and the impact it has on the well-being of local communities.
“We are facing a crisis across our region,” said SRPC’s Director of Research Joelle Lamport-Lewis. “This isn’t just an affordability problem — although it is certainly challenging for many to find housing they can afford — it’s also become a workforce problem. Many local employers are struggling to fill open positions and a lack of housing magnifies the issue. It’s easy to see why the crisis around housing and how to solve it are important not only for the personal well-being of local people but also for the economic well-being of the region.”
Over the last 12 months, the average price for a detached home in Perth-Huron increased over 35 percent to $549,000 and rent for a two-bedroom unit has increased by 18 percent to over $1,200 a month. While recognizing the challenges, the Future of Housing also proposes actions that would help build a healthier local housing outlook including an education campaign, workforce attraction and retention, collaboration, consolidation and clarity of direction and potential big system change. To view the Future of Housing report visit, perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
“We hope this report encourages more conversations around taking action to solve the housing crisis we’re facing,” added Lamport-Lewis. “There is a growing awareness and willingness locally and the Future of Housing report aims to add to that awareness and be part of the solution, helping ensure all residents in our communities have access to housing.”
The SRPC is operated by UWPH and is composed of volunteer community representatives dedicated to the collection, analysis and distribution of information relating to local social trends. Research enables United Way to discover and understand the root causes of issues affecting Perth-Huron and in turn mobilize the community.
BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES
Now that the community is slowly moving toward group activities the creators of bayfieldactivities.info have completed a recent update and refresh on the website. People are once again invited to refer to this website to learn what activities, from Pickleball to Majong, are happening and when.
REMEMBER THIS
The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 3,000 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.
“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.
Spring cleaning season has arrived; the perfect time to see just how domestic engineering has evolved over the decades by taking a closer look at artifacts in the Museum’s collection…
ELECTRIC VACUUM
This is a Goblin Ace Model 55c Vacuum Cleaner. This electric, household vacuum cleaner, manufactured in the 1930s, consists of a steel cylindrical body that rests horizontally on four, black, plastic wheels. The body is covered with black painted fabric impressed with an alligator-skin pattern; the cylinder is reinforced with three metal straps, each 2.5 cm wide, secured with bolts. There are metal caps on each end of the cylinder; one allows attachment of the accessory hose by friction-fit into circular black plastic fittings; the other allows exhaust of air through a black plastic nozzle. End caps are each secured to the cylinder by two snap-clips. A leather handle is attached with two metal fittings; the larger at the rear end incorporates the on/off toggle switch and a brown plastic fitting for attachment of the power cord. The power cord is 5.5 m long, round with a black rubber covering; the electric plug is black rubber with two brass prongs. All external metal parts are silver chrome-plated.
A diamond-shape, silver steel manufacturer’s identification plate is fixed on the top of the cylinder body with two screws. It shows a red-painted figure of a goblin springing over the name: “GOBLIN ACE”; engraved and painted text gives electrical specifications and around the margin are the words “MADE BY THE ORIGINATORS OF THE VACUUM CLEANER/GOBLIN ELECTRIC CLEANER COMPANY, LIMITED, TORONTO” and “MADE IN GT. BRITAIN”.
This vacuum was used by the Ball family when Mary and William Ball lived in Seaforth, ON. After 1954, the vacuum was moved and left for use at the cottage in Kincardine, ON.
HAND PUMP VACUUM CLEANER
This is a Wooden Hand Pump Vacuum Cleaner. Printed on one side is “The King Edward/Vacuum/Cleaner/Manufactured by The Geo.H. King Co. Limited/ Woodstock, Ont”. Inside the lid are printed directions for use and the patent date, Feb. 7, 1911.
The flat board lid is held by two clamps and has a carrying handle on top. There are three screens inside the top of the machine. The bottom one consists of a cloth bag on the wooden frame, the middle one is a flat cloth screen and the top one is the same with a metal handle. All three are easily removed for cleaning. Another cloth is set inside for an extra filter or a dust cloth. A wooden handle is set in a rocking socket behind the box and is pushed back and forth to pump the bellow-like box. A rubber tube and nozzle would be attached to the box by means of a metal connection. The air is then pumped through the box and up through the filtering screens where the fine dust is caught, while the heavier dirt is left in the box. The air then goes down cut holes beside the filters and leaves the box below the bellows at the front and back. The base extends to the back of the machine and has an attached rubber mat to be stepped on to hold the machine steady during use.
FLOOR POLISHER
This is an electric, rug-cleaning, floor polisher. It was manufactured by Shetland Home Care Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada and Salem, Massachusetts, USA. It is a home-floor cleaning appliance that stands upright, resting on two sisal-fibre cleaning brushes, which are detachable. A 1.5 ampere electric motor operates on a 120-volt household current. It is housed in a cream and rose-pink colored cover with a self-adhesive “Shetland” label showing a dancing female figure in gold.. Two sturdy sisal brushes are attached; they are held in place with steel clips and can be removed and replaced with other accessories.
The floor polisher was given as a Christmas gift in 1965.
HURON HOSPICE
ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY WALKERS ENJOYED MAGIC OF FOLLOWING A CANDLELIT TRAIL
PHOTOS BY JACK PAL
Most of the candles remained lit in the blustery cold winds in the forest on the Taylor Trail in Varna last Saturday evening, March 26, when approximately 150 walkers experienced the magic of a nighttime candlelit path.
“A very big thank you to all donors and the 30 sponsors of the Candlelight Memorial Walk, who contributed almost $30,000. Since the Ontario Government will match every dollar raised for Huron Hospice’s Capital Campaign, this generous support will be multiplied to become close to $60,000,” said Dave Gillians, an event organizer.
Anyone who missed this amazing event need not worry. They are still able to donate in memory of a loved one at www.huronhospice.ca/candlelight-memorial-walk-20. A video of the event will be posted on the Huron Hospice website soon so that everyone will be able to enjoy the event from the comfort of their home.
The team of fundraising volunteers were: Helen Varekamp, Roger Mather, Brian King, Rosie Weise, Kevin and Nancy Kale, Sandie Piper, Paul Hagarty, Susan Bender, Bronwyn Bechard, Arlene Timmins and Sondra Buchner. Gillians noted that this team of volunteers have invested hundreds of hours in making this event a success and they are very appreciative for all of the support they have received.

Leading into the Candlelight Memorial Walk held on March 26, the Bayfield Lions Club donated $5,000 in support of the event. David Nearingburg (left) and Tony Van Bakel (right) stopped by the Huron Hospice residence near Clinton to present the cheque to Executive Director Willy Van Klooster. This donation represented another significant contribution to the community during the Bayfield Lions Club’s 75th anniversary celebration. (Submitted photo)
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The 30 sponsors of the Candlelight Memorial Walk were acknowledged at the event.
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Preparing the lanterns for the Candlelit Walk were from l-r: Peter Kolkman, Mike Dietrich, Nancy Kale, Kevin Kale, Wayne Nielsen and in back was Trailblazer leader, Peter Jeffers.
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From l-r: Paul Hagarty, Sandie Piper, Roger Mather and Rosie Wiese were among the volunteers that ensured the Candlelight Memorial Walk ran smoothly on the evening of March 26.
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L-r: Peter Jeffers, Dave Gillians and Wayne Nielsen were just a few of the volunteers on site Saturday night to prepare the Taylor Trail for participants to enjoy.
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One hundred and fifty walkers experienced the magic of a nighttime candlelit path on the evening of March 26 at the Taylor Trail in Varna.
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A video of the event will be posted on the Huron Hospice website soon so that everyone will be able to enjoy the event from the comfort of their home.
SUBMISSIONS

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Melody Falconer-Pounder
My granddaughter is a Brownie. Now I don’t want to be one of those grandmothers who pushes my own ideals or preferences on her grandchildren, but so far, she seems to be really enjoying the program and making new friends which makes me over the moon happy! Over her March Break visit, she brought the badges she has earned so far this year to share with me. She brought her empty badge sash too…
Now I don’t hand sew for just anyone but for this newly minted Brownie I got out needle and thread. Together we determined how best to display her achievements on her sash. Her two favorites – Neveah’s Kindness Challenge, “because it was about being kind and that’s important” and an Outdoor Experiences Badge, “because the day will always be a special memory” were given pride of place on the front, still leaving plenty of room for official program badges. Now, the new sashes are made of a very strong canvas material that proved quite challenging to sew through so the sewing task became mine alone. When I showed her the finished result she let out a genuine squeal of delight which was more than enough reward for the times I pricked my thumb with the needle.
And so, for how ever long she continues to enjoy the program I promise to “lend a hand” with future sewing efforts but I think I may invest in a thimble first! – Gramel
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.