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The Bayfield BreezeIssue 670 Week 20 Vol 13

May 11, 2022

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Issue 670 Week 20 Vol 13
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WELL, HELLO THERE!

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The disassembly of the temporary Bailey Bridge continues and as progress is made a better view of the new contemporary bridge is slowly unveiled. These images were taken on the afternoon of Sunday, May 8. (Photos by Melody Falconer-Pounder

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BAYFIELD BEER, WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL THIS SATURDAY

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The Little Inn of Bayfield was represented at the 2019 Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival offering samples of sliders for guests. The 2022 version of the Festival will be held this Saturday, May 14 with a limited number of tickets still available.(Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


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 this Saturday, May 14th.

There are a limited number of tickets remaining for the Festival that will feature six food vendors and 12 businesses offering up samples of their beers, wines and spirits. Three bands, “Weekend Never Ends”, “Brad Cassel” and “The Scott Howarth Band” are sure to keep people entertained.

“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.

The event will run from 2-9 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person and will include eight food sample tickets and eight drink tickets. Designated Driver tickets are also available for $20 and include two food sample tickets.

Limited 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.

TOWN HALL HOSTS SUMMER CONCERTS

After a long hiatus and depleted resources, the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society will be hosting several concerts this year to raise funds to continue in their efforts to maintain and enjoy the Bayfield Town Hall. Music lovers can look forward to concerts from June to December with the first event featuring folk music sensations Ken Yates and Jadea Kelly on June 18.

Yates, who was born and raised in London, ON, has gained a reputation as one of this country’s brightest rising singer-songwriters. The winner of two Canadian Folk Music Awards for Songwriter of the Year and New Artist of the Year, Yates has spent recent years expanding his sound and touring North America and Europe.  The Bayfield Town Hall concert occurs days before the launch of his upcoming album “Cerulean”.

Kelly, described by CBC’s Tom Power as “one of the shining jewels in the crown of Canadian songwriters”, has performed and showcased her music across the United States and Europe and in Canada at the Winnipeg Folk Festival, Calgary Folk Festival, Edmonton’s Interstellar Rodeo, Metal Toronto and Peterborough Folk Festival.  Kelly was also a recipient of the Contemporary Singer of the Year award at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

The concert, which will feature Yates and Kelly performing separately, will begin at 7:30 p.m. with the doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $25.

As summer arrives so do more music-filled evenings with performers taking to an outdoor stage. On the schedule are The She Wolves, July 2nd and Lazo, July 30.

In August, the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society and the Bayfield Agricultural Society are joining forces to host a Rock Revival at the Bayfield Fairgrounds during the Bayfield Community Fair on Saturday, Aug. 20th.  This concert will feature two bands. The Stones Tribute Show will bring to life favorite Rolling Stones songs and Thunderstruck will take the stage in tribute to AC/DC.

For all three of these outdoor shows, tickets cost $30 and participants are asked to bring their own chair. The gates will open at 6 pm. and the performers will take to the stage at 7 p.m.

There will be a cash bar at all of the shows. Tickets for all four of these concerts are available now (or coming soon) online at www.bayfieldtownhall.com. Please note there are no additional surcharges.

LIONS COMMUNITY BREAKFAST RETURNS

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The Bayfield Lions Club has been serving up food at their community breakfast every Victoria Day Weekend, COVID-19 years excluded, since the first event in 1967. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


The Lions Club’s next big community event is their 53rd Community Breakfast to be held on Sunday morning of the Victoria Day weekend, May 22.

It will be held at the Bayfield Community Centre Arena from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The menu consists of eggs, sausage, home fries, pancakes with local maple syrup, toast, jams, juice and lots of coffee. The cost for the breakfast will be $12 per person; children three and under eat for free.

The breakfast is one of the village’s annual rituals for permanent residents, cottagers and visitors from the surrounding area, raising funds for important community services.

“Measured in calories per dollar, it is one of the best food values in the village,” said Lion President Tony Van Bakel. “Bring your family and friends.”

BOARD MEMBERS NEEDED FOR ARTS CENTRE

Bayfield Centre for the Arts Logo“Are you looking for a way to connect with the Bayfield community? Did you recently move to Bayfield, Goderich or Huron County and want to join an organization to create new connections while contributing to the community? Or have you recently decided to change (things) up a bit and do something new?” asked Leslee Squirrell, president of the Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA).

The BCA is a not-for-profit, charitable organization dedicated to education and participation in the visual arts for the general public – through the power of creative workshops and classes, public events, exhibitions, fundraisers, art installations and more.

There is currently an exciting opportunity to become part of this newly established arts organization as the BCA is recruiting Board members.

The organization is looking for members from across Huron County with diverse backgrounds and perspectives (business, teaching, politics, health, arts, trades, sciences, financial, legal etc) who are interested in volunteering their time and sharing their expertise to help the BCA.

Applicants need not be from the arts community but only possess a willingness to actively participate and help organize, ideate for new events and utilize their personal community connections. Being a part of the BCA Board will allow individuals to experience the opportunity to shape the future of visual arts and culture in the region.

“Help us tell the story of our community’s evolution through art and contribute in creating a positive vision for the future,” said Squirrell. “As a Board member you will experience a welcoming engagement with art that you will want to share with friends and family. A shared sense of pride in the cultural contributions of artists from our region. A convivial and professional group of Board colleagues who are passionate about the BCA and the arts in our region.”

Applicants should possess the following qualities and skills:

  • Willingness to promote the Arts in the community
  • Ability to access local knowledge, skills, resources, organizations, and networks
  • Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
  • Progressive values of social inclusion, diversity
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to initiate and maintain effective partnerships

Successful applicants will be asked to participate in nine monthly Board meetings of 1.5 hours in length (in-person and virtual) and to sit on one working Board Committee addressing BCA operational needs.

Want to know more before applying?  Email at hello@bayfieldarts.ca. Interested applicants are asked to please contact John Rishworth at  jrishworth@bayfieldarts.ca.

DEEDEE RESCUED  FROM HORRIFIC FATE

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DeeDee (Submitted photo)


They say that cats have nine lives and thanks to a quick-thinking good Samaritan, one dear feline that was brought into Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) this past week didn’t have to use up one of hers!

DeeDee is the Adopt-A-BaFF cat of the week.

A person out for a walk noticed another individual acting strangely around a dumpster. They appeared to be having difficulty trying to put something in the garbage receptical. Upon returning from their walk they noticed the same person this time with a small cat carrier trying to lift the lid of the dumpster. It was upon the realization that the individual was attempting to put a live animal in the dumpster that this person intervened.

The animal, a cat now known as DeeDee, was crammed uncomfortably into the carrier that was much too small for her. When confronted the person trying to dispose of DeeDee could not explain what they were doing and the good Samaritan took custody of the cat.

“This beauty is so very fortunate that a good Samaritan happened to notice something out of the ordinary and decided to investigate,” said Deb Penhale representing BFF.

DeeDee’s rescuer also has a rescue dog and although the dog was not being aggressive toward her DeeDee was quite afraid of it.

“Since she’s already emaciated, under all that fluffy fur is just skin and bones, they decided it wasn’t in the cat’s best interest to stress her out further so she contacted us and brought her to the Rescue,” said Penhale.

Once DeeDee regains good health and is vetted she will be looking for a forever home free from the fear of being tossed away like yesterday’s trash.

If DeeDee’s story touched your heart and you might like to adopt her 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 SURVEY

The Municipality of Bluewater has launched an Online Survey to receive input from the community!

Bluewater is interested in individual households’ use of parks and recreation facilities, participation in programs and activities, and opinions on the need for future services in the Municipality. The survey takes less than eight minutes and is open to the public until May 18.

Additionally, a phone survey is being conducted where 250 randomly selected households will receive a call. Oraclepoll Research will be conducting the telephone surveys and if someone receives a call, Bluewater asks that they take the time for this important phone questionnaire. The Municipality wants to hear from residents, either way!

The Recreation Master Plan will help guide Council and staff in the provision of recreation over the next 15 years. This includes parks, trails, waterfront, programs, culture, and service delivery. Let the Council know opinions on the need for future services in the Municipality so they can create a successful Recreation Master Plan.

Community outreach continues online via the Community Consultation Hub, hosted by Huron County. This is an online space where the community is encouraged to ask questions and share their ideas about recreation! The Hub also highlights key milestones and project updates.

Visit the Community Hub here: Bluewater Recreation Master Plan. 

Help Bluewater determine recreation needs and achieve a sustainable and inclusive plan!

Please visit the Survey Link below to take part: Bluewater Households. 

RATEPAYERS’ ASSOCIATION

The Bayfield Ratepayers’ Association (BRA) will hold a Spring General Meeting and Information Session on Saturday, May 21. All village residents, and interested parties, are encouraged to attend to learn about the topical issues of concern in the community.

The meeting will be held at the Bayfield Community Centre starting at 10 a.m.

BRA Directors will be introduced and Bayfield Councillor Bill Whetstone will attend offering an opportunity for residents to get up to date on the most pressing issues facing the village. These topics will include: Bayfield Secondary Plan, Growth and Wastewater Treatment, Bluewater Recreation Plan, Heritage District Plan Update, Bylaw Enforcement and Short-term Rentals.

Looking ahead, the 2022 Annual General Meeting will be held on July 30.

BIRDWATCHING HIKE

Avid birder George Ebers will lead a Birdwatching Hike at Windmill Lake Farm in search of spring birds at this unique area surrounding a 40-acre lake. This hike set for Sunday, May 15 is open to Bayfield River Valley Trail Association members only and there is a limit of 20 participants. No dogs please. Those who take part are reminded to bring their binoculars on the hike that will commence at 8:30 a.m.

Hikers are asked to meet and park at the Windmill Lake Farm parking lot, 35957 Bayfield River Road.  The hike will cover about 3-4 km and last about 90 min.  This is a natural trail with gentle inclines; participants are advised to watch the weather and dress accordingly.

To pre-register for the Birdwatching Hike please contact Ralph Blasting by email at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or phone 519 525-3205.

And a reminder, hikers should be aware that the Woodland Trail will be closed from now  to May 31 for turkey hunting season.  For the safety of all please do not use the Woodland Trail during this time!

FOOD BANK

While the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) is always grateful for the support of the community they have arrived at that time of year when their shelves could use some restocking. The BAFB currently has on its wishlist: tins of tuna and breakfast cereals, including gluten free options (must say gluten free on packaging).

Collection boxes for donations can be found at the Bayfield Public Library on Main Street as well as Trinity St. James Anglican Church (outside the entrance to the Parish Hall off the parking lot).

For anyone who would like to support BAFB with a monetary gift, there are a few options available. Cheques can be mailed to: Bayfield Area Food Bank, 10 Keith Cres., Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0. An e-transfer can be made through BAFB’s gmail account: bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com or a donation can be received on-line through the www.canadahelps.org website.

All donations of $20 or more will be given a receipt for tax purposes. BAFB is a registered charity with CRA. Anyone who would like a receipt, is asked to ensure that their name and address are clearly provided along with the donation.

All donations whether of non-perishable products, personal care items, or monetary donations, are very much appreciated by both volunteer staff and clients.

Anyone in need of assistance at this time, is asked to please reach out through either an email to bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com or phone/text 519 955-7444. All enquiries are handled with complete confidentiality.

WRITER’S WORKSHOP

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Have you always wanted to write better and know how to publish your work?

The Village Bookshop and the Bayfield Center for the Arts (BCA) are coming together to host a premier workshop offering on May 26 for writing enthusiasts, students and semi-professionals. Anyone who loves to write poetry, fiction, non-fiction, family stories, children’s stories, histories, biographies, adventures – whether these stories be long or short…all are welcome!

Guest writers, Kevin Heslop and Aaron Schneider will review participants’ written work and make suggestions, followed by a reading from their own work, then a light lunch will be served and the day will end with a discussion on all options of publishing.

This event will be held at the Bayfield Town Hall from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration is required as attendance is limited. The workshop is $25 per person.

To learn more about the featured writers’ visit: Kevin Heslop and Aaron Schneider.  

To sign up now for this fun and interesting event go to:  Writers Workshop Registration 

BAYFIELD VILLAGE YOGA

Bayfield Village Yoga will be offering Gentle Yoga on Thursday evenings at the Bayfield Community Centre starting on Thursday, May 5.

These one-hour sessions will begin at 7 p.m.

The cost is $15 per person, per class. Participants are asked to bring their own yoga mat. Other accessories are available.

To learn more please email: Registered Yoga Teacher (500 YTT), Julie Boyd at  juliemayboyd.msw@gmail.com.

OPTIMIST CLUB

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After a two-year absence, the ducks are ready to go for a swim! The Club will be holding their annual Rubber Duck Race on May 22.

The race can be best viewed at the South Pier of the Bayfield Harbour – the plastic waterfowl will be set free at 1 p.m.

Tickets are now available from club members and are selling for $5 each or five chances for $20. Only 1,000 ducks will be “sold”. This event is always a sell out so to avoid disappointment at the pier don’t wait until the last minute to purchase.

This year the first five ducks that cross the finish line will win prizes. First prize is a gas barbecue valued at $500 and donated by Meinen Custom Homes. Second prize is a 32-inch television, donated by Brian Coombs’ Remax Reliable Realty. It is valued at $280. Third prize is a pair of Ray Ban Sunglasses valued at $200 and donated by Main Street Optometric. Fourth prize is a Fire HD 10-inch Tablet valued at $200 and donated by Lighthouse Money Management. Fifth prize is a gift certificate for accommodation at The Albion Hotel in Bayfield. It was donated by The Albion Hotel, and is valued at $180.

Money raised from the race will go toward the Optimist Club’s many “friends of youth” projects. Licence #M800571

To purchase tickets please contact John Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email bvi@tcc.on.ca

HARP CIRCLE

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Harp Therapist and Bayfield resident, Martha Lawrance is offering two new opportunities for community residents starting in May.

The first is a “Guided Imagery/Soundbath with Harp” that will be offered monthly beginning May 19. The second is a Harp Circle where community members can join together for music-making. The Circles will be held bi-weekly beginning May 26. Both sessions will run for one hour starting at 3:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall at Trinity St. James Anglican Church, 10 Keith Cres. in Bayfield.

For more detailed information and any changes check Martha Lawrance’s website at  www.myharpheals.com and/or Bayfield Activities Calendar.

WALK FOR GUIDE DOGS

The Lions of Bayfield are holding one of their favorite events again this year, “The Walk for Guide Dogs”.

All proceeds from the walk go towards the seven Dog Guide programs: Canine Vision, Hearing, Service, Seizure Response, Autism Assistance, Diabetic Alert and Facility Support.  Each dog costs approximately $35,000 so anything people can do to help is greatly appreciated.

People are invited to get their pledge forms, or pledge a walker, and bring their dogs on Sunday, June 5 at Clan Gregor Square. Registration will take place  at 9:30 a.m. and the walk will start at 10 a.m.

For further information and pledge forms contact Karen Scott at karendscott@eastlink.ca or 226 441-2042.

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.

BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES

Now that the community is slowly moving toward group activities the creators of Bayfield Activities Calendar  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 Mahjong, are happening and when.

LAND TRUST HAS NEW BOARD CHAIR

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Max Morden (Submitted photo)


Nature is permanently preserved and enhanced on four local properties in an historic part of Ontario thanks to generous community donors and the work of the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy (HTLTC). The Mayhew Tract, Bayfield River Flats, Woodburne Farm, and the Heaman Tract are protected for the long term thanks to community donors. The land trust was formed in 2011 and has entered its second decade of work protecting natural areas in the historic Huron Tract.

The land trust elected Max Morden as the new Chair at the HTLTC’s Board of Directors meeting on Apr. 28. He takes over from Past Chair Roger Lewington who has led the land trust since its inception in 2011. Lewington welcomes Morden to his new role, and expresses his heartfelt thanks to the families and organizations who donated these protected lands, and to the local people who donated towards land acquisition and maintenance.

“We are so very lucky to have such thoughtful, generous, and visionary people in our area,” Lewington said.

The new Chair of HTLTC lives in Grand Bend, and has a background in law and communications. He has an active interest in environmental action, which he pursues as a member of the Rotary Club of Grand Bend and Lakeshore Eco-Network. Morden thanks Past Chair Roger Lewington for his “decade of outstanding service leading the HTLTC,” and looks forward to his continuing support as a director.

Morden says the HTLTC Board of Directors looks forward to its second decade of preserving the nature benefits of land for the future.

“We would like to thank all the families who have donated land and all the generous community members who have made donations to preserve these important natural areas for the future,” said Morden. “They are truly leaving a lasting land legacy.”

Morden encourages people in the community to consider a donation of land or a financial donation.

“Preservation of natural areas is one of the best and most permanent ways we can fight climate change and preserve habitat for the future,” Morden said.

The new Chair encourages prospective donors to contact any member of the Board of Directors or to contact staff at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.

“Four important properties are now protected for the future thanks to the generosity of donors and the community,” Morden said. “Donors care deeply about these properties and the land trust gives them a way to be sure they will be preserved and enhanced for future generations.”

The current land trust board is composed of: Max Morden, Grand Bend; Roger Lewington, Bayfield; Don Farwell, Stratford; Paul Spittal, Bayfield; Peter Twynstra, Ailsa Craig; Philip Walden, Thedford; Steve Bowers, Brussels; Kim McCabe of London and Bayfield; and Alison Lobb, Central Huron.

Thanks to generous public donations of land and money, the land trust protects four important nature areas:

  • Heaman Tract (2019), near Ailsa Craig, donated by Janet Heaman in memory of Jack Heaman.
  • Woodburne Farm (2018), near Goderich, donated by Ilse Elliott and her late husband William Elliott.
  • Bayfield River Flats (2017), donated by Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) and community donors.
  • Mayhew Tract (2015), near Holmesville, donated by the Mayhew Family, in memory of Jack and Iris Mayhew.

The HTLTC was formed in 2011, by the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation, a registered Canadian charity. The land trust serves the area of the historic Huron Tract. The HTLTC is a volunteer organization with a separate board of directors and is a member of the Ontario Land Trust Alliance. The HTLTC accepts donations and bequests of land and gives people in the Huron Tract area a way to make a positive difference by helping protect and restore land, water, and nature.

A donation to the land trust is a local way to leave a lasting legacy for future generations. These donations of land and/or funds help to permanently protect nature areas with local benefits such as water quality, forests and habitat, and public enjoyment and recreation.

To learn more about the HTLTC email info@htltc.ca, or visit htltc.ca or call the numbers listed above.

HAY TOWN HALL TO GET NEW WINDOWS

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Hay Town Hall (Photo courtesy Municipality of Bluewater)


The Municipality of Bluewater, in partnership with the Friends of Hay Town Hall, is very pleased to announce that a joint project will be undertaken to replace the windows and concrete sills in Zurich’s Hay Town Hall. This project is funded in part by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs through a grant of $19,500 from the Rural Economic Development Fund. The remaining funding will come from the Municipality of Bluewater and the Friends of the Hay Town Hall.

According to the Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Rural Affairs website, the Ontario Rural Economic Development (RED) program supports projects that increase economic development and investment in rural areas, build capacity and diversity in local economies, and remove barriers to business and job growth. MPP Lisa Thompson was on-site with members of Bluewater Council, staff, and Friends of Hay Hall to announce the funding award Friday, Apr. 29.

For over 100 years, the Hay Town Hall has stood as an important link to Zurich’s and Hay Township’s past. Its iconic green doors are visible from Main Street and have welcomed many Bluewater residents throughout the years. More recently, the Friends of the Hay Town Hall have worked together with the Municipality of Bluewater to complete necessary repairs to the hall so that it may continue to serve the needs of the community as a gathering place in the heart of Zurich.

“It’s our heritage, it’s important to the community, and it’s great to know that these repairs are happening. It’s more important than ever for our rural communities to have places where people can come together and connect,” said Zurich’s Councillor Shawn LaPorte.

Funding through the Rural Economic Development fund will allow the valuable volunteer work completed by the Friends of the Hay Town Hall to continue. In the past, many repairs have been funded in part by donations. The project includes removing approximately 19 outdated windows in need of repair. They will be replaced with functional, energy efficient windows that are complementary to the design of the Hall. This will improve safety and energy efficiency and allow for better air quality during events since the new windows can be easily opened.

Heather Klopp of the Friends of Hay Town Hall said, “The health of a community can be measured in many ways. So many factors determine the quality of our rural life. Preserving a heritage structure such as Hay Town Hall provides support for revitalizing our gathering places, attracting visitors, and teaching our youth and newcomers about our history. The 132-year old windows at Hay Town Hall have been the eyes which have witnessed these activities in the past and now will help ensure they are carried into the future!”

These latest repairs are made in an effort to improve the user experience for anyone renting the hall and to prolong the hall’s life. The Hay Town Hall is currently used by several community organizations as a meeting and event space, but the hall is open for use to anyone by donation. The Hay Town Hall may be booked by sending a private message to the Friends of the Hay Town Hall through their Facebook page: Hay Town Hall .

To learn more visit: Rural Economic Development program.

FESTIVAL ADDS CHILDREN’S COMPONENT

Since the beginning of time we’ve been communicating by telling stories.  And even before humans learned to read and write stories were passed through generations to embed family values and to celebrate cultures. Inspired by one of the greatest storytellers of our time, Nobel Laureate for Literature and Wingham native, Alice Munro, a Festival was created with a mandate to nurture emerging writers and celebrate the short story.

The Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story (AMFSS) is now in its 20th year. In 2022 it hosts a three-day literary festival offering workshops and onstage presentations as well as the annual short story competition for emerging writers in both an Adult and Youth Category. And, in order to bring writers and children of all ages together through storytelling, the Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story was expanded to include programming dedicated just to kids – specifically students in Avon Maitland District School Board.  The Kids Festival is a fundamental part of achieving its goal to nurture the next generation of great Canadian authors and is presented in partnership with the Foundation for Enriching Education.

This year’s guest authors include:

  • Alexander MacLeod, a Giller Prize finalist, with “Animal Person”, a magnificent collection about the needs, temptations, and tensions that exist just beneath the surface of our lives.
  • Nita Prose brings mystery and a heartwarming journey of the spirit, as her new release “The Maid” explores what it means to be the same as everyone else and yet entirely different.
  • Martha Schabas has penned a piercing, poignant novel about truth in art and identity in “My Face in the Light”.
  • Danielle Daniel imagines the lives of women in the Algonquin territories of the 1600s in a story inspired by her family’s ancestral link to a young girl who was murdered by French settlers, in “Daughters of the Deer”.
  • “Looking for Jane” by Heather Marshalls tells the story of three women whose lives are connected by a long-lost letter, secrets, loss, and the fight for women’s right to choose.
  • “Buffalo is the new Buffalo” by Chelsea Vowel tells powerful stories of “Metis futurism” that envision a world without violence, capitalism, or colonization; and the
  • Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story for Kids will feature virtual school readings and presentations by David A. Robertson, Tara Anderson, Wesley King and Katherine Battersby.

Workshops are always a popular part of this Festival. This year writers can take five masterclasses with our bestselling Canadian guest authors including: “Process, Prompts and Possibilities”, with Danielle Daniel; “Exceptional Faults – Finding the qualities (and flaws) that make your writing unique”, with Martha Schabas; “Character and Plot in Short Fiction – Who are these people and what is happening to them?” with Alexander MacLeod, and “Publication 101”, with Heather Marshall, a number one, bestselling author.

Workshops and the Awards Luncheon are $30 per person, while the author readings are free.  Friday and Sunday events are virtual and Saturday events will all be held at the Maitland River Community Church in Wingham, ON.

The annual festival is generously supported by: County of Huron, Township of North Huron, Dr. Marie Gear, Royal Homes, Capital Power, Leslie Motors, Stainton’s Home Hardware, Crawford, Mills & Davies Law Office, Joe Kerr Ltd., Hurontel, Britespan Building Systems, MicroAge Basics, John Schenk Legal Howick Mutual Insurance Company and Glassier Physiotherapy Clinic.

Full details and ticket links are available on the website at www.alice munro festival.ca.

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

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 May 2.

  • Passed the 2022 municipal budget by-law.
  • Approved the creation of a new Building Inspector/By-Law Enforcement Officer position.

HPHA

An outbreak of COVID-19 at the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) – St. Marys Memorial Hospital has been declared over by Huron Perth Public Health. The outbreak had been declared on the Inpatient Unit on Apr. 18 after five cases of the virus were identified. Upon declaring the outbreak, immediate precautions were implemented, including prevalence testing in team members and patients.

In total, 16 patients acquired the virus while in hospital, along with six team members.

As there have been no further cases associated with this outbreak, the Inpatient Unit has been reopened to admissions and transfers. Family and Caregiver presence on the Unit has also been restored. Full guidelines can be found on their website at www.hpha.ca.

“While this outbreak is over, community transmission is high and this is putting pressure on many high-risk settings, including the HPHA hospital sites, not only due to staff absences but also because of the extra care required for COVID positive patients,” Vice President Partnerships & Chief Nursing Executive, Deborah Wiseman. “You can help us alleviate this pressure by layering personal protective measures such as keeping up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations, staying home if you are sick and wearing a mask in indoor public spaces.”

Appreciation is extended to the HPHA team and regional partners. Their dedication to safe and compassionate care deserves a thank you.  Appreciation is also extended to the community for their support of outbreak measures.

BLUE BAYFIELD

Blue Bayfield Logo

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A metal flower at the front entrance to a Bayfield residence has become more than a nice decoration this Spring as a Robin has chosen to nest within. (Submitted photo)

Editor’s Note:  This is a semi-regular feature from Blue Bayfield highlighting simple ways people can make a difference in their community to create a healthier environment. 

Did You Know that you shouldn’t move a bird’s nest? Robins are starting to build nests and lay their eggs now. They usually lay two clutches of eggs through the summer and sometimes a third in August, if conditions are good. The female chooses a site for the nest and takes two to six days to build it. She incubates the eggs for about two weeks and then, when the young are about two weeks old, they leave the nest. 

Robins are known as woodland birds but also really enjoy living in suburban gardens. In fact, you may find robins’ nests in your yard or at your front door! Their nests are made of twigs and grass and are held together by mud. If you find one nearby, please don’t disturb it! Robins are beneficial to our planet because they help spread seeds and control insects, including beetles, weevils and caterpillars.

What You Can Do: If you find a robin’s nest at your home, try your best not to disturb it. If there’s too much going on, the birds will abandon the nest. After the fledglings have left, it’s ok to get rid of the nest because they most probably won’t use it again. And by the way, it’s a fallacy that birds will abandon nests if you touch them (not that you should be touching birds’ nests anyway). This myth comes from the idea that birds can smell human scent which is untrue since birds have a very poor sense of smell.

For more information go to Nest Abandonment.

CAMP MENESETUNG

With spring underway, Camp Menesetung, on the shores of Lake Huron, is looking forward to once again returning to in-person programming and camping experiences with registrations up over 230 per cent over pre-pandemic numbers at the same time of year in 2019, while marking its 75th year of incorporation and 101 years since its beginning as Goderich Summer School.

“As we look forward to celebrating our 75th anniversary operating as a summer camp, we are excited to not only celebrate the memories created over the years at Camp, but to look forward and celebrate the success of our programming that continues to evolve as we adapt to the changing needs of our community,” said Ralph Watson, chair of the Board of Directors.

As part of the milestone festivities the Camp will be the site of an anniversary weekend event, “Memories Bring Back Memories”, Aug. 26-28.

In celebration of Camp Menesetung’s 75th anniversary since incorporation, past Camp Menesetung campers, staff, or board members and their families are invited to reunite with camp friends by returning for a day, a night or the entire weekend celebration.

Weekend activities include a mix of classic camp activities – campfire, early morning “polar dips”, nature crafts, princess breakfast, – and more recent favorites including. rockwall, archery and canoeing on Lake Huron. The weekend rounds out with a Sunday morning service and fundraising lunch.

To complete the experience for those who want to relive their camp days, accommodation in the cabins is available for one night or two.

Registration is now open at: www.campmenesetung.ca/75years. Camp Menesetung is located at 82190 Church Camp Rd, Goderich.

BARBECUE RETURNS TO HOSPICE HIKE

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The Huron Hospice Hike and Bike will take place Sunday, May 29 on the trails at the Varna Community Centre and it will be an in-person celebration!

People can also choose to bike on local scenic roads. If people are hesitant, they can “Hike Where They Like”. After hiking or biking, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. everyone is welcome to enjoy a barbecue at the Community Centre from noon to 3 p.m.

“We are excited to be adding the BBQ back into the event this year. We are celebrating hiking in person. We celebrate the end of one of our most difficult winter seasons – the winter of the flood,” said Hike Organizer Christopher Walker. “Please join us at the community centre and swap stories while enjoying the barbecue.”

“The hike is a significant Huron Hospice fundraising event for the Hospice. Funds raised stay in Huron County and are used to fund compassionate end-of-life care for families. Each year, hikers and donors help pay for some of the more than half of our operational costs we raise each year,” said Executive Director of Huron Hospice and Hiker, Willy Van Klooster. “Hike funds help cover the cost of day-to-day services like nursing and volunteer support. As you can see, donor support is an important part of providing service.”

“People can form teams of family members or friends to hike and obtain pledges to support the Hospice. Children could ask parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles to pledge their support by email, mail, or phone. Teams can have fun and challenge each other. There will be prizes for the team and the individual who raises the most money.” commented Walker.

To register for the hike, go to the Huron Hospice website www.huronhospice.ca/hikeandbike. Just follow the link to pledge or create a team. Organizers ask that people please send the link to family, friends, and contacts and ask them to pledge.

“Now, more than ever, we need your support. Please join us at the 2022 Hike and Bike for Huron Hospice,” Walker concluded.

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.

Last week, we took a look at a few of the health-related artifacts in the Museum’s collection. This week we examine some items once used in the field of dentistry.

PORCELAIN TEETH

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This is one of four wooden trays, containing rows of porcelain manufactured teeth. Round dowels rotate, having metal pins over which the teeth fit; one tray is labelled “ASH’S DOWEL CROWNS”. There are 285 teeth in total on the four trays.

DENTAL MIRROR

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This is a dental mirror from 1899. The manufacturer’s name: “The Snow Dental Co.” appears on the handle. “ASH 6” is inscribed on the back of the mirror.

CEMENT SPATULA

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This is a cement spatula made of metal. It has an octagonal-shaped handle with a spatula-like end. “Clev-Dentl & W” is inscribed on the item.

WORLD SAILING ADVENTURE CONCLUDES

SHIP CRUISES ALONG RED SEA AND MEDITERRANEAN

PHOTOS COURTESY JUSTYNE CHOJNACKA AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

In early January of 2020, Bayfield residents Justyne Chojnacka, travelling with her partner, Wally Racicot, embarked on a 119-night World Wonders Cruise, departing Los Angeles aboard the magnificent Viking Sun. This once-in-a-lifetime cruise was meant to visit over 50 ports in New Zealand, Australia, SE Asia, India, the Middle East and Europe.

However, the rise of a global pandemic ensured that this magnificent holiday did not go according to plan but evolved into a rather interesting adventure that Justyne herself shared with readers back in April of 2020. This story was first published in Issue 561** of the Bayfield Breeze with a follow-up on how the Canadians did finally make their way back home in Issue 562*

On Feb. 1st, 2022, the Bayfield Breeze received an email from Justyne. She wanted to share with readers that the couple is now once again sailing the world on their return trip that was interrupted by COVID in 2020. (Visit Issue 657 for more details.) At that point, they had been on the ship for about six weeks and were Omicron free as both crew and passengers were taking daily COVID tests. Their original itinerary was updated in order to allow the passengers to be allowed off of the ship taking them along South America to Cape Horn instead of French Polynesia; Australia and New Zealand. Justyne provided two further updates on their travels which were featured in Issue 661 and Issue 665.

This week, the story behind the sailing adventure of a lifetime continues with an update provided on Apr. 15 and again on Apr. 27. We pick up their story as the Viking Star arrived in Saudi Arabia, stopping at two different ports, Jeddah and Yanbu Al-Bahr where the couple took part in some intriguing excursions.

“For the first time this country accepted tourists,” said Justyne. “It is the strictest of the Islamic countries. We visited Jeddah, a Saudi Arabian port city on the Red Sea; it acts as a gateway for pilgrimages to the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina.”

While there the couple took part in a desert safari at sunset, took a camel ride and experienced Bedouin hospitality.

After Saudi Arabia the Viking Star sailed to Jordan with a stop in the port city of Aqaba.

“From Aqaba we were able to go to visit the magnificent ancient city of Petra,” said Justyne. “We were lucky that it was not too hot for this two-hour walking tour. Next we went again through the Suez Canal to get to Egypt.”

Visiting Egypt from the Port of Sharm el-Sheikh, they went snorkeling, viewing vibrant corals, rock formations and underwater cliffs. The following day from the Port of Safag they travelled to Luxor. Their tour drove along irrigation canals created from the Nile River making farming possible. Justyne noted that crops grown include: sugar cane, bananas, olives, mango, watermelon and garlic. When they arrived In Luxor they were able to visit the Valley of the Kings and the tombs of Egypt’s great pharaohs.

And then they were off to Port Said in Cairo where they witnessed the Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx.

On Apr. 27 the couple provided another update sharing their experiences in Israel – the ship stayed two days in Jerusalem (Haifa). This time allowed them to visit Palestinian territory, Nazareth and Bethlehem following Jesus’ steps to his crucifixion, visiting other biblical sites and experiencing floating in the Dead Sea.

 “We had a chance to cry at the ‘Wailing Wall” with women and men using a separate part of the wall,” said Justyne.

They also learned about a desalination and purification plant that Israel built in 1980 to use 80 per cent of their waste water for irrigation.

“It enriched the land, many trees were planted and we saw miles of vineyards and olives trees,” she said.

Justine noted they were very fortunate to take part in the excursions as the day after they were there another Palestinian-Israeli clash erupted.

Departing Israel, they cruised the Mediterranean Sea and then on to stops in Greece and Turkey.

“In Athens, Greece we climbed the Acropolis with a wonderful view of the Parthenon and at our stop on Crete we saw the uncovered Knossos,” she said.

They explored the ancient city of Ephesus, Turkey where they saw the Great Theatre, a massive amphitheatre that once sat 25,000 spectators.

“It is in Ephesus that St. John is said to have preached and Mary is said to have lived her final days in a tiny stone house,” shared Justine.

The Viking Star spent two nights in Istanbul, Turkey. The couple learned that it is in this city Eastern and Western cultures meet as it literally straddles Europe and Asia across the Bosporus Strait.

While in Istanbul they toured the Hagia Sophia that was founded as a basilica, converted to a mosque and now is a spectacular museum. They also visited the Grand Bazaar, the world’s largest covered market with 3,000 shops offering a vast selection of carpets, spices and local sweets.

From there the ship sailed for Italy with stops in Messina, Naples and Rome. And as the calendar turned to May the cruisers visited Barcelona and Cartgena in Spain and Lisbon, Portugal.

Earlier this week the Viking Star made its way across the Atlantic Ocean and along the English Channel until it reached the Port of Tilbury in the United Kingdom where Justyne and Wally disembarked the ship after 135 nights of sailing the globe and prepared for their flight home to Canada.

As they came to the end of their sailing Justyne reflected that it had been a great trip and as of today (May 11th) the couple should be back home in Bayfield resting up after their long holiday.

Justyne also shared that she is willing to provide more details regarding their remarkable Viking Cruise with anyone who may be interested. She may be reached at 519 565-5427.

** To access these Issues click on the Archives button at the top of this page and type “561” or “562” into the Search and press enter. The Issues should appear for your access.

Wally Racicot and Justyne Chojnacka in Egypt.

PIXILATED

 IMAGE OF THE WEEK

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Trillium…By Sally Leitch

Submit Your photo

Email your photo in Jpeg format to hello@bayfield-breeze.com with the subject line Subscriber Photo of the Week. or…Upload your photo to Flickr.

I am looking for the Bayfield that is a delight to the eye – please share photos with a touch of whimsy, beauty, humor or a sense of fun. If you are to include people in your photos be sure to have their permission to publish their picture on-line and also send in their names and where they are from. And don’t forget to tell me who took the photo for proper credit to be issued.

SUBMISSIONS

Image of Melody Falconer-Pounder

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Melody Falconer-Pounder

A post on social media has caused quite a stir in the village this past week and upon first reading it brought to mind the Town of Bomont in Utah where in the 1980s rock music and dancing were banned.

The post emerged during a meeting held on May 5 that was attended by representatives from almost all of the Main Street restaurants, some business owners, community members and Bayfield Ward Councillor, Bill Whetstone.  The meeting was hosted by Bayfield Brewing.

The post suggested that the “Municipality of Bluewater is looking to severely restrict, and even possibly ban music from our venues because of the complaints of a very small minority.”

In the age where many learn about current events via social media, how one chooses to compose content is more important than ever. I felt that the phrasing needed some clarification and therefore reached out to both Councillor Whetstone and Ron Keys from Bayfield Brewing.

Whetstone said, “There is nothing that has come to council. The music ban is a complete fabrication from someone who has taken this way over the top. I attended the meeting in question and set the record straight.  Never once did the term music ban ever get used at any council meetings.”

He acknowledged that council did have some complaints last summer and municipal staff was asked many months ago to look at the noise bylaw and perhaps bring something forward if they felt it was required. He added that they may be bringing something in May for discussion.

Keys said, “Currently there is a bylaw that states live music must end by 11 p.m.  As far as I know no one is violating that bylaw but there are almost always complaints about noise. For example, our last patio music was Saturday, Apr. 2 from 1-5 p.m.  It was four degrees Celsius that day and there was still a complaint filed.”

The social media post continued, “We are asking the municipality to provide the businesses located on Main Street with support, and with a reasonable music/noise bylaw that we can all live with.”

Since the meeting a petition in support of the venues providing music has been created and is available for signing at Main Street restaurants. I have included a screenshot of the petition here for those who would like to read the finite detail.

People will no doubt have some strong opinions regarding this issue and many have added those opinions to the aforementioned circulating social media.

This brings my thoughts back to the Town of Bomont. I wonder how differently things would have transpired if social media existed forty years ago. Incidentally, Bomont  is a fictional community – it was the setting for the movie, “Footloose” although upon further research I discovered that the movie itself was based on a true story out of Elmore City, Oklahoma…perhaps, upon reflection and in hopeful resolution I would be better off referencing, Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” instead. – Melody

Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.