TOM CASTLE INSPIRES ART TO RAISE FUNDS FOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Doug Darnbrough’s work entitled, “Lighting the Lantern on the Bayfield wharf” featuring lamplighter Tom Castle, is currently being auctioned online to raise funds for the Bayfield Historical Society. The initial pencil sketch of the painting (on right) is also being auctioned. (Photos courtesy Bayfield Historical Society)
In 2020, an original painting of the historic Helen MacLeod II fishing boat, by local artist Doug Darnbrough, was auctioned online to raise funds for the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS).
Now in 2022, Darnbrough has created another original, historical painting that will also be auctioned online starting today (Aug. 10) to help the BHS raise funds for their ongoing Digitization Project.
Darnbrough’s work is entitled, “Lighting the Lantern on the Bayfield wharf” featuring lamplighter Tom Castle, an integral character in the village’s fishing and farming history.
Also being auctioned is the initial pencil sketch of the finished painting created by Darnbrough. A sketch is done prior to painting to plan positions and proportions. These are often altered in the final painting.
Both the original painting and pencil sketch are framed and measure 18”X24”. For anyone wishing a closer look both the painting and the sketch are currently on display inside the Bayfield Archives and Heritage Centre on Main Street. The Archives is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday or by special appointment.
Interested bidders are asked to register for the auction by emailing: bhsmembers@gmail.com or they can visit the website: Bayfield Historical Society for more information.
Bidders should note that part of this fundraiser will be considered a donation, making it tax-deductible.
Here is some family history behind the subject for this piece: Thomas William Castle was born in Bayfield in 1892. The Castle family fished on Lake Huron and were farmers.
George Castle, Tom’s great-grandfather was born in 1829 in Weedon Flore, Northamptonshire. George and his wife, Mary Lamb, had three sons, all born in Weedon Flore: James (b.1823), Elijah (b. 1826), and George H. (b. 1829).
The first record of this family in Stanley Township, Canada is from 1855.
Sometime between 1851 (record in England) and 1855, George Castle (60) came to Bayfield with his wife; his son James (30), who never married; son Elijah (33), who married in Bayfield at the age of 76; and son George Henry (25), already married, with his wife, Jane. George Henry and Jane had two children in Bayfield.
George Henry’s son George Sidney was Tom’s father. Tom was a third-generation member of the Castle family from Weedon Flore. The death certificate for Tom’s grandfather, George Henry, aged 67, gives the cause of death as “general exhaustion.” It was a hard life. These immigrants started with nothing – striving to feed, house, and clothe their families in another country. They are all buried in Bayfield Cemetery.
FALL FOTO FEST RETURNS WITH PRESENTATIONS AND WORKSHOPS
Bayfield Fall Foto Fest (FFF) is back in a brand new incarnation taking place the evening of Sept. 23 and all day Sept. 24. The Photography Club of Bayfield (PCOB) and the Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) have teamed up in a new partnership to bring an exciting program of presentations and a selection of familiar hands-on workshops.
FFF has a very exciting keynote presenter for Friday, Sept 23: Robert Burley. Burley, currently Professor Emeritus at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), is a Canadian artist who has lectured extensively across the globe and whose photographs of the visual landscape have been celebrated internationally. He sees the camera as a means to document and promote social change. His photographs can be found in numerous museum collections around the world.
Burley was named a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada in 2018 and a Senior Mellon Fellow (Canadian Centre for Architecture) in 2010.
His presentation will explore with stunning visuals the connections between nature and the city in relation to the overall impact people have on the environment both positive and negative. The Great Lakes feature strongly in his interests. He will include a discussion of several of his books.
Because of the broader appeal of the subject matter, the presentation will be open to the general public as well as FFF registrants. Visit the Robert Burley website to see more of this Keynote Speaker’s work.
The Saturday morning FFF program will consist of a keynote seminar by Andrew McLachlan. His extensive travels have resulted in a large, diverse collection of images that feature landscapes and the flora and fauna. His eBook: A Photographer’s Guide to the Ontario Landscape is the first ever-comprehensive guide to photographing Ontario’s vast and varied landscape. McLachlan’s presentation will focus primarily on his own Macro techniques for photographing flowers and insects.
McLachlan will be holding two Macro workshops in the afternoon on those two subjects. To learn more about this photographer visit the Andrew McLachlan website.
Other workshops in the afternoon and evening include the following facilitators:
Conrad Kuiper: Current President of the PCoB, Kuiper will offer his workshop “Kickstart Your Creative Eye”: a different approach to improving composition.
Elizabeth van den Broeck: At her Art Gallery in Goderich, van den Broeck will demonstrate what to do with photos after post-processing.
BD Colen: BD will share his skill as a former documentary photographer professor at M.I.T. and help photographers get around the anxieties they may have around photographing people in public spaces.
Debra Friedman: Her workshop will explore the process of portrait photography from initial planning to execution and follow-up.
Stuart Heggie: A PCoB member, with a degree in Astrophysics and years of astrophotography experience, Heggie will introduce participants to this subject in a complimentary evening workshop, weather permitting.
Photography enthusiasts are encouraged to save the dates! Registration will be available on Eventbrite soon. More detailed information on all FFF presenters will be presented in future Bayfield Breeze articles and will also be available on both BCA and PCoB platforms.
For more information about FFF please contact Jack Pal at 519 440-9542 or jackpal1202@gmail.com.
FROM ALPACA FLEECE TO NEWFOUNDLAND PONIES LEARNING HAPPENS AT THE FAIR

The Bayfield Community Fair is 166 years young and organizers invite everyone to “put the Fair in your summer plans”! (Photo courtesy Pixabay)
The 166th instalment of the Bayfield Community Fair is set for Aug. 19-21 and as the date quickly approaches people may be interested to learn what demonstrations and displays are planned.
Demonstrations have always been a part of the Bayfield Community Fair. Each year, the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) introduces new demonstrations to keep the experience fresh for fairgoers. This year is no exception.
In the arena, visitors to the homecraft displays will be able to take in a number of demonstrations. Jean Bennett will be sharing how cloth scraps can be braided into rugs, one of many practices from the past that represent a true upcycling of scrap cloth. Kevin Soehner, a man of many handcraft talents, will be showing his skills in weaving and machine sock knitting. There will also be an alpaca fleece-to-products demonstration, presented by Soehner and BAS Homecraft President Pam Stanley, who will show visitors how the versatile alpaca fleece can be turned into saleable products. The fleece used in the demonstration comes from a local alpaca farm owned by Marieke Steenbeek. Alpaca wool is considered to be one of the warmest natural materials and one that can be used even by people who are generally allergic to wool.
Visitors to the displays and demonstrations in the arena are invited to stop at the BAS food booth for a slice (or two!) of delicious homemade pie and a cup of tea or coffee on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.

Visitors to the Bayfield Community Fair will get a rare opportunity to see the Newfoundland Pony, a breed that is on the critically endangered list. Vanessa Strike of Poppy’s Haven will be in the main show ring on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 11:30 a.m. to share her knowledge of this heritage breed with fairgoers. (Photo by Robert Alexander)
On the fairgrounds, visitors will get a rare opportunity to see the Newfoundland Pony, a breed that is on the critically endangered list. Vanessa Strike of Poppy’s Haven will be in the main show ring on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 11:30 a.m. She will explain what role the pony played in Newfoundland in the past and how this breed was suited for the work it became known for. The Newfoundland Ponies at Poppy’s Haven now play a major role in equine facilitated wellness and learning programs. The farm works in partnership with mental health therapists and other counsellors (grief, yoga, mindfulness) to promote and provide mental health programs. As a heritage breed with only about 250 ponies remaining that are suitable for breeding, this will be a rare opportunity to see the Newfoundland Ponies up close and learn their story.
Fair organizers are excited to present two interactive Reptile “Jurassic Adventure” shows in the big tent on Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and again at 2 p.m., featuring a number of different reptiles. An animal handler from Hands on Exotics will introduce participants to some unusual reptiles and facilitate hands-on experiences of the scaly variety. This demonstration promises to be fascinating!
The Animal Display Barn is a must-see for visitors of all ages. The animals are raised on nearby farms and give visitors an up-close experience. Goats, sheep, chickens and pigs are expected, but there are always some surprise animal displays! The barn will be open Saturday and Sunday offering plenty of time to see the animals. Visitors are reminded to wash their hands or stop at one of the many hand sanitizing stations after their visit.
Fairgoers are encouraged to check the online Bayfield Fair Schedule for details of these and many other events at the upcoming Bayfield Community Fair.
SUMMER UPDATE ON MAIN STREET WORK

This rendering demonstrates features of the finished Bayfield Main Street Revitalization which will include Dark Sky lights, concrete exposed aggregate sidewalks, new trees and plantings. There will also be pedestrian lighting. (BFMSR Project Rendering courtesy Municipality of Bluewater)
The hot, sultry days of summer are here and they coincide with the construction shut-down on Bayfield Main Street. Construction will resume in September until November with the final part of the project happening in May of 2023 with the completion of the top coat of paving.
The finished revitalization will include Dark Sky lights, concrete exposed aggregate sidewalks, new trees and plantings. There will also be pedestrian lighting.
The Bayfield Main Street Revitalization e-newsletters continue to be issued with the latest news and updates even throughout the shut-down. Sign up here: E-News. People are encouraged to share the subscription link with friends and neighbors who may also want to receive the latest information!
THREE HIKES HAPPENING IN AUGUST
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) is hosting three hikes this month and topics include trees, ice cream and village history!
On Wednesday, Aug. 10, participants are invited to enjoy a leisurely hike through the village along the Heritage Trail on the Bayfield Tree Walk.
Sondra Buchner will lead this hike and will reveal the dedicated work of the Bayfield Tree Project over the past ten years. Over 500 trees of different species have been planted, watered and maintained by volunteers during that time. This walk will meander through the streets and rights-of-way around town, identifying the areas where trees have been planted, and celebrating the success of this local, grassroots community project.
This hike that will begin at 11 a.m. from the Clan Gregor Square gazebo is suitable for everyone, people with strollers and leashed dogs are welcome. The length of the walk is 1.5 km and should last about one-and-a-half hours. Participants are asked to dress for the weather.
An Ice Cream Hike is set for the Woodland Trail on Sunday, Aug. 14 starting at 11 a.m.
Summer means ice cream, and lots of it! Participants are asked to meet at the David Street Trailhead where a free ice cream treat will be made available. The trail takes participants past trickling streams, over bridges, and through a beautifully mixed forest. People might need another treat after the hike, and there are plenty of places in Bayfield to get one.
This moderately difficult hike will be 3.5 km and should last about one-and-a-half hours. The trail is well marked but has some steep inclines, rough spots and obstacles.
Participants should wear sturdy shoes, bring water and dress for the weather. Dogs on leash are welcome
A map of the Woodland Trail is available at: www.bayfieldtrails.com/woodland-trail.
On Sunday, Aug. 21, BRVTA members only are in for a special afternoon as local author and resident local historian, Dave Gillians will take people on a Historic Cemetery Tour of the Bayfield Cemetery.
Gillians, author of “For the Love of Bayfield” will begin the walk at 2 p.m.
Much of Bayfield’s history is reflected through the headstones in this sacred place and during this walk, stories about some of Bayfield’s most fascinating people will be respectfully told.
The one-and-a half hour walk is limited to 20 members. No dogs, please. Members are asked to meet at the cemetery on the north side of Mill Road (County Rd. 3), located 1 km east of Hwy. 21.
For more information on all three hikes or to register for the Historic Cemetery tour please contact Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or call 519 525-3205. Not a member yet? Go to the BRVTA website at: www.bayfieldtrails.com and click “Memberships.” Dues are $20 a year for individuals or $30 per family.
Volunteers are needed! Anyone with an hour or two available to help with receiving and sorting books before the book sale or on the book sale dates is most welcome. Please email FOBL at contact@fobl.ca.
FOBL looks forward to welcoming everyone back to the book sale after a two-year absence!
FOUR SIBLINGS LOOKING FOR HOMES
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has helped hundreds and hundreds of feral and abandoned cats find their forever homes but many are still waiting.
Falcon, Rey, Saber and Jakku are the Adopt a BFF kittens of the week.
Fully vetted, these adorable kittens are ready to go to their forever homes. They’re all very affectionate, when they aren’t wrestling and playing. This foursome was born at BFF and have had a wonderful fostering experience with lots of love and attention.
BFF is now accepting applications for adoption and these kittens won’t be around for long. Although BFF prefers kittens to be adopted in pairs, they will consider applications for singles should one of these lovelies tug at the heart strings!
Anyone who would like to meet Falcon, Rey, Saber and Jakku are asked to 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.
SHORT-TERM RENTALS SURVEY
The Municipality of Bluewater would like public feedback to draft a by-law to regulate short-term rentals. They invite the public across the municipality to provide feedback on short-term rentals and the draft by-law. Please complete the short-term rental consultation survey by Aug. 31. It can be found by clicking here: Survey.
The goal of the survey is to include feedback from short-term rental operators, neighbors of short-term rentals, other residents in the municipality, and visitors who use short-term rentals. This survey has different questions geared towards people’s role as either a neighbor, short term rental operator, visitor, etc. Information collected may be included in a report to Council, but personal information will not be shared. The proposed by-law will include considerations for protection of renters and neighbors. Some items to be included in the by-law are parking management, maximum occupancy limits, requirements that the owner must be able to attend the property within thirty minutes, a demerit point system and more.
A variety of perspectives will help to develop a by-law that balances the needs of residents and short-term rental operators and feedback is much appreciated!
SAIL DRIVE
The Municipality of Bluewater, the Bayfield Village Marina and Sea Bag Sails Trade Program will be teaming up to host a sail drive!
People are invited to drop off their used sails at the Marina Office during the two remaining “Sail Drive” dates: Aug. 11 and Aug. 18 anytime between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
The Sea Bag Sails Trade Program reclaims old sails and turns them into useful, sustainable items thus helping to keep sails out of landfills.
Those who donate can enter into a draw to win a Sea Bag. Donations will be accepted at the Village of Bayfield Marina Office located at 33 Long Hill Road in Bayfield. The office phone number is 519 565-2233.
This program is a part of the Blue Flag Canada Program operated by Swim Drink Fish. More info can be found at the Municipality of Bluewater.
PIRATES OF THE PHARMA-SEA

Staff at Michael’s Pharmasave in Bayfield will be having a swashbuckling good time on Aug. 12 in support of Huron Hospice. (Submitted photo)
Michael’s Pharmasave in Bayfield is holding a “Pirates of the Pharma-Sea” Fundraiser in support of the Huron Hospice on Aug. 12 to coincide with Customer Appreciation Day.
The pharmacy will be decorated to support the theme and staff will be dressing up and having a lot of fun while fundraising for a great cause.
Landlubbers will no doubt appreciate 20 per cent off almost all in-store, over-the-counter products and perhaps the coin they save can go toward a donation for a special loot bag or a bid on a Silent Auction item.
All of Michael’s Pharmasave’s three stores are joining in the fun of raising money for the cause with the Clinton pharmacy embracing a Wild West theme and Goderich going Tropical!
Michael’s Pharmasave in Bayfield is located at 2 Main Street South and the event will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
FOOD BANK

On May 1, Bayfield Area Food Bank volunteers l-r: Gayle Beuermann, Nora Dowler and Kevin Burton prepared to wheel the groceries donated during the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Garden Show from the arena to the BAFB’s home location at Trinity St James Anglican Church. BAFB volunteers are hoping for similar results following the Bayfield Community Fair to be held Aug. 19-21.(Submitted photos)
Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) will have a presence at the Bayfield Community Fair on the weekend of Aug. 19-21 providing people with an opportunity to donate and help fill up some grocery carts similar to the campaign that occurred at the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Garden Show that was held in April. So when heading to the fairgrounds don’t forget to bring a box of cereal or a can of tuna or other non-perishable item!
Volunteers report that at this time of year BAFB shelves can use restocking of soup, rice, cereal, packets of oatmeal, tuna, canned vegetables and canned fruit.
BAFB is always grateful for the support of the community and would request that donors consider gluten free options (must say gluten free on packaging) when donating breakfast staples.
The needs of the BAFB aren’t always food related as they are also hoping the community would be open to providing them with feminine hygiene products.
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.
ARTIST GUILD
Saturday, Aug. 20 is the date set for the annual Bayfield Artist Guild Show and Sale.
The event will run from noon until 3 p.m.
All are invited to the gardens at 52 Colina Street in the village (across from Pioneer Park) to view and purchase work by Guild members.
CHICKEN DINNER
Trinity St. James Anglican Church members are organizing a Pineridge Chicken Drive-thru Dinner for Sunday, Sept. 11. The event coincides with Grandparent’s Day! Could there be a better way to honor that generation than by sharing a meal in support of the church that is also home to the Bayfield Area Food Bank and Bayfield Guiding?
The menu consists of a half chicken and roast potatoes provided by Pineridge Barbecue Co. as well as a vegetable, garden salad and fresh fruit salad.
Tickets must be purchased in advance for this takeout only dinner. They are available now for $25 each by calling Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or via email at melody.pounder@gmail.com Dinners will be available for pick up from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Sept. 11 at Trinity St. James. The church is located at 10 Keith Cres in Bayfield.
MAH JONGG
The Bayfield Library Community Room will soon be home to afternoons of Mah Jongg starting in September.
All are welcome to join and instruction will be provided for new players. Starting on Sept. 7, Mah Jongg will be played on the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 12:25-3 p.m.
For more information please contact Pat Lewington via email at: plewington@gmail.com.
ROCK REVIVAL
The Bayfield Town Hall 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.
Tickets cost $30. 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 both of the shows and tickets for both are available now online at www.bayfieldtownhall.com. Please note there are no additional surcharges.
LIBRARY FRIENDS
The Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) are busy preparing for the annual book sale to be held at the Bayfield Public Library Aug. 18-20. With the pandemic hiatus of the past two years, this year’s sale is likely to be the biggest yet!
To promote the book sale, FOBL board members will be at the Bayfield Farmers’ Market on two Fridays – Aug. 5 and 12. FOBL memberships (one-time fee of $5) and a limited supply of attractive FOBL tote bags ($15 per bag) will be available.
Visitors are invited to stop by the FOBL market table to get information about the book sale and the “sale promo” and to find out how the book sale proceeds are used to support activities and programs at the library. FOBL board members will be happy to answer any questions!
FOBL will gladly accept donations of gently used books, games, puzzles, DVDs, and CDs for the sale. For full details on the book sale dates and times as well as donation drop-off dates and times, including the Donation Guidelines, please visit www.FOBL.ca.
UKULELE SOCIETY
For the month of August, the Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS) will be jamming outdoors in Clan Gregor Square twice a week.
Members of the BUS will be meeting Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m., weather permitting. All are welcome!
When at the park, folks are invited to come sing and dance along to songs from the 1960s, 70s and 80s. And if anyone has a ukulele, they can join in on the strumming too!
PIONEER PARK AGM
Saturday, Aug. 13 is the date set for the Pioneer Park Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) for 2022.
The AGM will be held from 10 a.m. to noon in Pioneer Park (rain location Bayfield Lions Community Building, 6 Municipal Road). Participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair.
For further information please email: info@pioneerpark.ca.
UNITED CHURCH
The Tuesday Morning Quilters are happy to be able to gather again for quilting/coffee time on Tuesday mornings at St. Andrew’s United Church. All are welcome to join in quilting at 9 a.m. or just drop in for coffee at 10 a.m.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in Bayfield.
PIONEER PARK SUMMER EVENTS
Pioneer Park is the place to be in July and August. Yoga, music and art events are all planned for the lazy, hazy days of summer!
“Yoga in the Park” is happening on Mondays and Thursdays throughout the summer months starting at 9 a.m. The last session is set for Monday, Sept. 5.
Pre-sunset concerts have begun as part of “ Music in the Park”. The Lakeview Mennonite Choir will perform once more on Friday, Sept. 2. The remaining performers will entertain park goers on Saturday evenings: Adam David Lang will share his talents on Aug. 13 and Phil Cook will provide music on Aug. 27.
A favorite of park goers is returning this summer – “Paint the Sunset” with Robin Ellis. Canvas and water colors are provided for budding artists of all ages to use. The remaining dates for “Paint the Sunset” are: Saturday, Aug. 20 and Sunday, Sept. 4.
IN MEMORIAM
The community will no doubt be saddened to learn of the death of a long-time resident of Bayfield.
Brian Frederick Thomas, born Oct. 8, 1955, drew his last breath on Thursday, July 21 at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital in Goderich. His family shared that it is with deep sorrow and much love that they announced Brian’s passing due to pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable and terminal illness.
He will be lovingly remembered and cherished by his wife of 40 years, Jamie, and their daughters, Jaclyn (Joe) and Annie (Ahmed), and their grandchildren, Elliott and Edie. Brian was the eldest and beloved son of Velma Kerr (Michael) and the late Fred Thomas. Proud brother of Keith (Kelly) and Karen (Steven).
He will be fondly remembered by his large extended family and friends.
Brian was the proud owner of Huron Glass for 26 years, and much of his impressive commercial glazing work can be found throughout Huron, Bruce and Grey County. Locally his work is evident at Bayfield Foodland, the Bayfield, Goderich and Grand Bend LCBOs, Zurich Public Library, Maitland Medical Centre, Mark’s Work Wearhouse and Cowbell Brewing Company to name a few.
Brian possessed many talents and passions, from motorcycles to stained glass, fishing to photography, oil painting to playing guitar. Brian was a problem solver with a keen eye for detail, and the drive to fix any problem he encountered. He had an endless sense of humor, and always made everyone feel at ease in his presence. Brian enjoyed the simple things in life, like sitting around a bonfire enjoying a cold beer with his friends and family listening to classic rock.
Jamie would like to send a special thank you to Brian’s palliative care nurse, Alison Clark and all the caring staff of the South West Local Health Integration Network for their love and support. For all the words of comfort in messages, cards and flowers and the generous donations made to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation her deepest gratitude is offered to all.
Messages of condolence for the Thomas family are welcome at www.falconerfuneralhomes.com.
NEW BUSINESS
GIFTS THAT TELL A STORY AVAILABLE AT CRICHET HANDMADE DESIGNS
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
Just off Bayfield Main Street at 20 Catherine Street visitors will be drawn to a unique piece of architecture that is home for a second summer to Crichet Handmade Designs.
The gift shop is located in the first concrete barn poured in the area in 1913. Over a hundred years ago it was a horse stable surrounded by pasture. Today this well-preserved building is used as a showcase for the work of 25 artists and artisans – 85 per cent of whom are local – all curated by business owner, Gabby Parejo, of Seaforth. Gabby herself is an artisan crocheting beautiful and whimsical creations.
Gabby’s creed is “our love language is gift giving” and this shows in both the product she carries and the enthusiasm she brings to her work.
“You want to give a gift that tells a story and that is what we have in this store. I, myself, am a gift giver,” she said. “You can change someone’s day by the simple gesture of giving a gift, just in that little moment you can bring joy.”
Gabby has designed the shop to feature the work of the artists and artisans she carries creating a minimalist flow and out of respect for the talents she tries not to overlap specialties. She is also quite proud that her shop does not compete with the others in the business district but rather complements what they sell.
Crichet Handmade Designs opened at an opportune time for creatives since during the height of the pandemic markets that are often used to sell their wares weren’t happening.
“I also felt I needed a career change,” said Gabby. “During COVID I gained a different perspective and decided I needed to start doing what I really wanted to do. And then my husband, George, found this property in Bayfield and so came the opportunity to do what I truly love to do.
“There is so much talent around me – everything is handmade and the artists and artisans often reuse, repurpose and recycle to create one-of-a-kind pieces which fits my philosophy.”
This summer Crichet Handmade Designs is branching out a bit offering DIY kits for those people who love to get creative themselves or give the opportunity to be creative as a gift. DIY gemstone jewellery kits can be found in the store or for those who really want to get stuck in Gabby now carries Annie Sloan products. Chalk paint, waxes and finishes, brushes and tools – everything needed to give a tired old piece a new look – and it doesn’t necessarily have to be wood furniture as the paint works on other materials as well.
It was quite an accomplishment for Gabby to be selected to carry Annie Sloan products, up until now the closest stores carrying her products were located in New Hamburg and Kincardine, ON.
“I was introduced to her products during the winter and loved them – no prep – easy to use – they meet England’s environmental standards and are all environmentally friendly,” she said. After learning more about the products and testing them out Gabby decided to apply to be a distributor. She had to do a presentation and be interviewed by the company’s Canadian representative.
“Annie herself chooses who sells her product and where. She prefers to work with small businesses and she contacted me personally once I was accepted,” Gabby said. “The fact that she took the time to reach out and welcome me was amazing.”
There is something for all ages at Crichet Handmade Designs. During August, Parejo is offering workshops for children on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9-10:30 a.m. Lanterns, pom-pom art, foil art, animal pebble art and macrame feature wall art, are all themes that youngsters aged six to 12 years can explore. The cost is $25 per guest and can be booked on the shop’s event’s page at: Workshops. These workshops will continue in the Fall on Saturdays until December.
Crichet Handmade Designs is open in Bayfield from May to December. The shop also has an online presence so that people can browse for the perfect present year round. People are able to purchase Annie Sloan’s online course and this Fall enrol in paint-your-own-piece workshops also through the site. Gabby is very much enjoying her second season in the shop on Catherine Street just around the corner from Bayfield Main Street.
“People are doing an amazing job of referring us – both locally and further afield. I have had people come in visiting from Toronto who have told me they were given a gift from our store that they loved so they just had to come and visit themselves. We may be a little off the beaten path but our artists are happy and our customers are happy.”
And that makes Gabby happy too…
Crichet Homemade Designs is currently open Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. They can also be found online at Crichet Handmade Designs.
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Eighty-five percent of the artists and artisans featured in the shop are either local or from neighbouring communities including: Bayfield, Walton, St. Joseph, Goderich, Mitchell, Lucknow, Grand Bend, Clinton, Ethel, Listowel, Grafton and Dashwood.
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Gabby Parejo has designed the shop to feature the work of the artists and artisans she carries creating a minimalist flow and out of respect for the talents she tries not to overlap specialties.
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“There is so much talent around me - everything is handmade and the artists and artisans often reuse, repurpose and recycle to create one-of-a-kind pieces which fits my philosophy,” said Parejo.
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Sold alongside Gabby Parejo's own crocheted items are afghans as well as knitted and sewn pieces by other artisans.
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Gabby Parejo's creed is “our love language is gift giving” and this shows in both the product she carries and the enthusiasm she brings to her work.
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Of the 25 artists and artisans featured in the store a few come from further afield such as Oakville, Waterloo, London, Cambridge and Toronto.
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Edible gift options can be found in the store including: jams, maple syrup products, teas, nuts, sauces and honey.
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Just off Bayfield Main Street at 20 Catherine Street visitors will be drawn to a unique piece of architecture that is home for a second summer to Crichet Handmade Designs and business owner Gabby Parejo.
DANCELAND ROAD INSPIRES NEW MUSIC
BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

Jale and Joe Ferland recently released their first album, “Pink Lem” as the jam band known as “Danceland”. The group name as well as two songs on the record were locally inspired. (Photo by Kateryna Topol)
Bayfield and the surrounding countryside has proven to be the muse for a new body of music created by Jale (pronounced Ja-lay) and Joe Ferland.
“My husband, Joe, and I have a cottage here in Bayfield. We love it here and spend as much time as possible in Huron County,” said Jale. The couple hail from Toronto.
The pair may already be known to many locals as their Grateful Dead/Jerry Garcia Band cover band, “Cherry Garcia Band” has played Bayfield Volkfest and at the River Road Brewery in the past. Joe can also be found sometimes busking at the Bayfield Farmers’ Market on Friday afternoons.
What may be lesser known about the couple is they also have a jam band, known as “Danceland” and recently launched their first record, “Pink Lem” at the end of July.
“We wrote and recorded this record here in Bayfield and have called ourselves Danceland after the side road located south of Bayfield off of Bluewater Highway (Hwy 21),” explained Jale.
In fact a couple of songs on the album were also inspired by the community.
“Two songs on the album are named ‘Bluewater Sky’ and ‘Danceland Road’, both of which were inspired by this beautiful area,”
Anyone interested in listening to these songs as well as others by the Ferlands is invited to explore their YouTube channel at: Danceland. The couple are currently working on a website but for now people can access their music at: Pink Lem.
PLAYHOUSE SHOWCASES MUSICAL CLASSIC AND COMEDY ON TWO STAGES

L-r: Marcia Tratt, Barbara Fulton, Karen Wood, Cara Hunter and Mary Pitt in “The Sweet Delilah Swim Club” playing on the South Huron Stage at the Huron County Playhouse from Aug. 18 to Sept. 4. (Photo by Hilary Gauld)
Huron Country Playhouse in Grand Bend will soon be offering two vastly different productions on both of their stages that are sure to provide entertainment to suit all tastes. “The Sweet Delilah Swim Club” is being showcased on the South Huron Stage while “The Sound of Music” is being offered on the main stage. Both productions commence mid-August and run until Labour Day Weekend and tickets are available!

The Sound of Music, will cap off a season of celebration as the Playhouse wraps up its 50th Anniversary. This timeless masterpiece will run for three weeks only, Aug. 17 to Sept. 4. (Submitted photo)
Five feisty ladies, one beach cottage, and a whole lot of laughs! Southern-fried humor abounds in the rollicking comedy The Sweet Delilah Swim Club, playing on the South Huron Stage from Aug. 18 to Sept. 4.
Set in North Carolina, The Sweet Delilah Swim Club follows the hilarious lives of five Southern women who met years ago on their college swim team. Every summer, the women set aside a long weekend to reminisce and reconnect, free from husbands, kids and jobs.
Over the years, the five friends increasingly rely on one another, through advice and boisterous banter, to get through the challenges that life flings at them – including men, sex, marriage, parenting, divorce, aging – with some hilarious and unexpected twists and turns.
“The Sweet Delilah Swim Club is smart, touching and above all else, very funny,” said Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment, Alex Mustakas. “The relatable characters and witty banter provide a fresh perspective on the journey through life, and the value of friendship.”
A remarkable crew of talented women has been assembled for this production, led by acclaimed Canadian actress Sheila McCarthy making her Drayton Entertainment directorial debut. McCarthy is one of Canada’s most celebrated entertainers as the winner of two Genie Awards, an ACTRA Award (Association of Canadian Television & Radio Artists), and two Dora Awards.
McCarthy will be joined by Set Designer Kelly Wolf, Costume Designer Julia Holbert, Lighting Designer Siobhan Sleath, Stage Manager Jasmyne Leisemer, and Assistant Stage Manager Amber Archbell.
The cast includes: Marcia Tratt plays Sheree Hollinger, a hyper-organized health nut with a fear of getting older; Barbara Fulton as Dinah Grayson, the group’s wise-cracking cynic.; Cara Hunter takes on the role of Southern Belle event planner, Lexie Richards; Karen Wood plays eager-to-please nun Jeri Neal McFeeley; and Mary Pitt is school teacher Vernadette Simms.
The Sweet Delilah Swim Club was written by the playwright team of Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, known collectively as Jones Hope Wooten. The production premiered at The Playhouse of Wilson in North Carolina in September 2007.
The Sweet Delilah Swim Club is proudly sponsored by RE/MAX Bluewater Realty. The Media Sponsors are The London Free Press and The Fox 99.9. The Design Sponsors are MicroAge Basics and CHOK 103.9. The 2022 Season Media Sponsor is CTV.
The shores of Lake Huron will soon be alive with the sound of music as one of the most popular musicals in theatre history and winner of the Tony® Award for Best Musical, The Sound of Music, will cap off a season of celebration as the Playhouse wraps up its 50th Anniversary. This timeless masterpiece will run for three weeks only, Aug. 17 to Sept. 4.
The inspirational story, based on the memoir of Maria Augusta Trapp, follows aspiring nun Maria who leaves the convent to govern the seven mischievous children of Captain von Trapp. Through her youthful vitality and purity of heart, she brings a fleeting moment of happiness to their lives as the shadows of tyranny spread over Europe.
Touching the hearts of all ages, the iconic score by Rodgers & Hammerstein brims with some of the most memorable songs ever performed on the musical stage including “My Favourite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” “Edelweiss,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” “The Lonely Goatherd” and, of course, the glorious title song.
“The Sound of Music is considered one of the most revered productions in musical theatre history,” said Mustakas. “Its classic score has become cherished by generations of theatregoers.”
The iconic production is brought to life on stage by Director and Choreographer Timothy French. Joining French are Assistant Director/Choreographer Damon Bradley Jang, Music Director Anthony Bastianon, Set Designer Brian Dudkiewicz, Costume Designer Rachel Berchtold, Lighting Designer Kevin Fraser, Stage Manager Dustyn Wales, and Assistant Stage Managers Sadie Wannamaker and Kelly Boudreau.
A remarkable cast of talented performers has been assembled for this production, including Jayme Armstrong as the free-spirited Maria. An aspiring nun, Maria leaves the convent and uses music and kindness to change the lives of the von Trapp family when she is hired as their new governess.
Stephen Sparks plays Captain Georg von Trapp, a retired naval officer who uses a stern demeanor to hide his sadness over his wife’s death.
Actors who play roles integral to the storyline include: Blythe Wilson as Baroness Elsa Schraeder; Lee MacDougall as Max Detweiler; Rebecca Poff as Mother Abbess; Annie Ramos, Karen K. Edissi, and Denise Oucharek, as Sisters from the Convent; and Evan Taylor Benyacar as Rolf Gruber.
The seven von Trapp children are played by a remarkable group of talented young performers: Annelise Forbes as Liesl, Sal Thompson as Friedrich, Zoe Brown as Louisa, August Fox as Kurt, Tevya Kurczak as Brigitta, Quinley Kurczak as Marta and Trinity Kaylani Sieling as Gretl.
Rounding out an exceptional cast are Nicola-Dawn Brook as Baroness Elberfeld, Jacob James as Franz, Mark Harapiak as Herr Zeller, Brad Rudy as Admiral von Schreiber, and Christina Gordon as Frau Schmidt, along with Ana Persijn Alarcon, Caulin Moore, and Emily Robinson.
The Sound of Music is based on “The Trapp Family Singers” a memoir by Maria Augusta Trapp. The inaugural Broadway production took place in November, 1959 at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. It was nominated for nine Tony® Awards and captured five wins including Best Musical, Best Actress in a Musical and Best Scenic Design.
The play was later adapted as a landmark musical film in 1965 that starred Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer. The film won five Academy Awards and two Golden Globes including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress in a Motion Picture. In 2013, a live televised production of the musical was produced by NBC, starring Carrie Underwood as Maria and Stephen Moyer as Captain von Trapp.
The Sound of Music is proudly sponsored by the Commercial Print Management and Greens Galore. The Media Sponsors are Business London, 2Day FM, Classic Rock 98.1, and MyFM. The Design Sponsor is Darlene O’Rourke Photography. The 2022 Season Media Sponsor is CTV.
Regular performance tickets for both The Sweet Delilah Swim Club and The Sound of Music are $53 for adults, $32 for youth under 20 years of age and $43 for groups of 20 or more and select Discount Dates. HST is applicable to all ticket prices. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Box Office at 519 238-6000 or toll free at 1-855-drayton (372-9866), or online instantly at www.huroncountryplayhouse.com.
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
UNDER FIVE YEARS CLINICS BEGIN

Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) held its first COVID-19 vaccination clinic for children six months to under five years of age on Friday, July 29. Alexander Durand, 4, and his mom Kelly Durand attended the first session while HPPH Public Health Nurse Veronica Kolkman worked at the clinic. To learn more about available clinics for this age group visit: www.hpph.ca/en/health-matters/book-or-find-a-vaccine.aspx (Submitted photo)
SOCIAL RESEARCH & PLANNING COUNCIL
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) and the Social Research & Planning Council (SRPC) are proud to announce Kristin Crane as the SRPC’s new director.
“I am very excited to carry on this important role,” said Crane. “The SRPC and UWPH have a long-standing reputation for collaborative leadership in Perth-Huron. I look forward to contributing to a team and organization that positively impacts the community in such meaningful ways.”
“We’d like to welcome Kristin to the SRPC,” said SRPC Co-chair Beth Blowes. “Kristin’s previous experience, and her connections with service providers, government and business, make her an ideal choice. The council is looking forward to working together to further develop the SRPC’s role in gathering data and offering insights into the social justice issues that mean the most to people across the region.”
Crane comes to the SRPC from Huron County Economic Development, where she led the Immigration Partnership. She has extensive experience bringing partners together to collaborate on solutions to community needs. Crane’s experience working with organizations dedicated to the well-being of vulnerable communities also gives her unique insight into local needs and how to influence change.
“I’d also like to thank our outgoing director, Joelle Lamport-Lewis,” added Blowes. “The SRPC’s research and advocacy not only helps UWPH make informed decisions, it is invaluable to the wider work of creating stronger communities. Joelle contributed so much to building the SRPC. We will miss her vision and enthusiasm.”
The SRPC is operated by UWPH and includes community volunteers dedicated to increasing well-being through the collection, analysis and distribution of information related to local social justice issues including poverty reduction, income security, quality of life, living wage and equity, diversity and inclusion. The SRPC’s research and advocacy helps UWPH better understand root causes of local issues and mobilize the community to create effective, innovative solutions.
To read more about the SRPC’s research, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca/research.
For a source of current, locally sourced insights into the well-being of Perth-Huron, visit myPerthHuron.ca.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Knox Presbyterian Church, Byafield will be holding their anniversary service on Aug. 21. On this auspicious occasion they will have special music provided by Harpist, Martha Lawrance.
Rev. Lisa Dolson is offering people an opportunity to explore the big questions in life virtually!
People are invited to explore faith in Alpha online. Alpha sessions explore the big questions of life. It’s an opportunity to discover more about the Christian faith in a friendly space. Watch an episode on a topic of faith. Ask questions, share thoughts, or simply listen.
Participants will meet online via ZOOM every Thursday at noon. Individuals can access the ZOOM link on the church’s website at: Knox, Bayfield, call/text Rev. Dolson at 519-955-2158, or email knoxpcbayfield@gmail.com, to be added to the weekly email reminder.
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.
LOVE YOUR GREATS DAY
A day to celebrate and protect the Great Lakes, called “Love Your Greats Day”, is held the second Saturday of every August. In 2022, this special day is on Saturday, Aug. 13.
Love Your Greats Day organizers say local citizens like you, and local communities like yours, can take positive actions to protect Lake Huron and the other Great Lakes.
There are many ways people can help Lake Huron. They may take litterless lunches to the beach, properly dispose of waste, and help clean up litter along Lake Huron. They may use reusable water bottles and refill them at local water refill stations.
“Each positive action you take adds up,” organizers say.
Organizers encourage people to think of actions they can take, as an individual, to protect and improve the Great Lakes. They invite individuals to choose products that don’t pollute; to reduce plastic use; and to do projects that slow down or capture water running off of a property.
People might plant trees or donate to local tree planting programs. They may use rain barrels or add rain gardens or wetlands or make other stormwater management improvements. Consider adding green infrastructure to a property. This benefits creeks, rivers, and Lake Huron. This natural infrastructure can also help us adapt to extreme weather and changing climates. To learn more watch this video: Valuing Green Infrastructure.
Green infrastructure includes forests and woodlots, wetlands and stormwater ponds, soil, and natural areas. It also includes technologies to absorb water and manage runoff. These technologies include rain barrels and permeable pavement. These green technologies filter and store stormwater and replicate ecosystem functions. Contact a local conservation authority to find out about technical expertise and grant incentives that may be available to help.
Enhancing natural features and green infrastructure has many benefits for Lake Huron communities. It can help to store, filter, and treat water running over land during storm events. Adding natural features to the landscape has benefits for air and water quality. It provides habitat for wildlife and pollinators. It makes communities more resilient and better prepared to adapt during extreme weather as the climate continues to change. Green infrastructure can reduce flood risk by slowing and reducing stormwater. This is an economic benefit as well.
To find out more actions people can take to protect a Great Lake, visit the Healthy Lake Huron – Clean Water, Clean Beaches Partnership at healthylakehuron.ca. Follow Healthy Lake Huron on social media, share stories by using #loveyourgreats or tagging @loveyourgreats on social media and visit www.loveyourgreats.com.
TOWN HALL
The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society (BTHHS) is currently looking for additional members to join their Board of Directors including a Secretary, a “House” director and a “Rental” director.
According to existing members of the Executive, the workload for a Director is not daunting…and it’s fun! Participation includes: attendance at monthly Board meetings;
bringing ideas and participation in an annual Town Hall Planning session for the following year; volunteer time to help at Town Hall Events (there are six this year); and participate in the annual Town Hall spring yard clean up.
The “House” Director position will be available soon. This position involves the maintenance and upkeep of the building working closely with the part time custodian. The person in the “Rental” Director position will work closely with the rental coordinator for weddings and events. The person who fulfils the “Secretary” position will participate in Board decisions, take minutes and help the President set the agenda.
The Bayfield Town Hall was built in 1882, then moved to its present location on Clan Gregor Square in 1920. The Town Hall was the seat of Village government from that date until 1927 and again from 1965 to 1984 at which point, the aging building was closed and in disrepair.
In 1989, a committee was formed to restore and re-energize the Town Hall. The committee was known as the “Friends of the Town Hall” and after years of fundraising, private donations and grants, monies were raised to restore and maintain the historic building.
Today, the BTHHS, a non-profit corporation with a volunteer Board of Directors, is responsible for its maintenance and upkeep with a mandate to provide cultural events and activities for the Village. All of this is possible through the many fundraising events run by the Board as well as generous donations from Bayfield residents.
The following is an overview of what these fundraising efforts pay for:
- Repairs and upgrades to the building
- Heat, hydro and operation of the building
- Maintenance and cleaning including a part-time staff custodian
- Renting the hall for weddings and community use including a part-time staff rental coordinator
- Hosting events and performances at the Town Hall
To learn more or to apply for a position please email bayfieldtownhall@gmail.com or call 519 565-5788.
PAINT ONTARIO
Paint Ontario, the largest show and sale of representational art in the province, returns to the Lambton Heritage Museum, Grand Bend, on Sept. 2.
This will be the 26th edition of this popular annual event that is eagerly anticipated by both the local community and art appreciators throughout the province. The show will run until Sept. 25.
This year’s show will be presented in a newly renovated space at the Lambton Heritage Museum. It will provide a unique opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their work and an unmatched opportunity for buyers to view and acquire it. Sculpture, which was featured for the first time in 2021 will again, literally, provide an additional dimension to the visitor experience.
“Perch’n’Paint”, a plein air competition on the weekend of Sept. 9-11, is among a number of complementary activities being planned to take place in the adjoining buildings and grounds of the Lambton Heritage Museum. These will include live demonstrations as well as “May We Come Together” a showcase for local not-for-profit and service organizations. Further details will be announced closer to the time.
Paint Ontario is organized by the Grand Bend Art Centre itself a registered not-for-profit community group.
“Our mission is to inspire creativity in the community,” said GBAC Executive Director Teresa Marie Phillips.
“Monies raised in sales commissions go straight back into cultural development within the community,” added GBAC President Nette Pachlarz.
Whether a regular visitor or new attendee, Paint Ontario’s 26th Show and Sale is an event not to be missed. Go to www.paintontario.com for further details and follow social media for the very latest news.
BLUE BAYFIELD
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 invasive plants in increasing numbers are being brought to Canada every year and they are causing harm to our health, the environment and our economy? An invasive plant is a non-native plant (one that didn’t evolve here) that establishes itself quickly and displaces our native plants. When native plants can no longer grow, other vegetation, as well as insects, birds and other wildlife, are profoundly affected. Food webs are disrupted and resources are reduced.
Hundreds of millions of dollars are spent in Canada to control invasive species. In 2019, municipalities in Ontario spent over $2.8 million/year for invasive Phragmites control. The cost of the potential impacts of invasive species on agriculture, fisheries, forestry, healthcare, tourism, and the recreation industry in Ontario is estimated to be about $3.6 billion per year!
Some legislation does exist regarding invasive species, but it is fragmented and not coordinated between the federal government and between the provinces. The good news is that the Master Gardeners of Ontario have drafted a proposal to regulate invasive plants in the horticultural trade.
What you can do: Spread the word! Let friends and family know that certain plants are harmful and shouldn’t be planted in our gardens. Some examples include: periwinkle (Vinca sp), goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria), tamarisk (Tamarix ramosissima), yellow flag iris (Iris pseudacorus), parrot’s feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum), burning bush (Euonymus alatus) and Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii). Once these plants escape into natural areas, parks and forests, they cause ecological, social, and or economic harm.
A grassroots coalition of conservationists, ecologists, invasive plant experts, and motivated home gardeners from across Canada, the Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR )wants to reduce the proliferation of invasive plant species. They are seeking the public’s support and help for change. For more information, please contact: info@ccipr.ca or visit: CCIPR.
Remarkable Citizens
THOMPSON PRESENTS AWARDS
Editor’s Note: In place of the usual Remember This Section over the next few issues we will be showcasing the 2020 and 2021 Remarkable Citizens for Bayfield.
Member of Provincial Parliament for Huron Bruce Lisa Thompson has honored area residents with Remarkable Citizen Awards in the two counties for a number of years during her annual New Year’s Levee. These awards recognize and celebrate individuals for being dedicated, respected community leaders and volunteers and for the impact they make on their community.
Thompson invites members of the community to nominate individuals for the awards with a request for submissions in December each year. The COVID-19 pandemic put both the 2020 and 2021 presentations on hold, but fortunately an opportunity to present the Bayfield area recipients with their awards availed itself to Thompson when she was invited to take part in the official opening of Admiral Bayfield Square on Saturday, July 9. As a result, the approximately 90 people gathered for the opening ceremony had the added pleasure of recognizing and applauding their own!
Honored as remarkable citizens were: Don McIlwain, Brad Turner and Jessica Petelle, Leslee Squirrell, John Marshall and Jim Tyo. Over the course of the next few issues the Bayfield Breeze will feature all of the recipients by sharing their nomination letter. To date, Don McIlwain, Brad Turner and Jessica Petelle, Leslee Squirrell and John D. Marshall have all been featured. This week, the final nominee to be recognized is Jim Tyo..
JIM TYO: REMARKABLE CITIZEN
Huron Hospice nominates Jim Tyo as a remarkable Huron County citizen. Jim is friendly and kind to all he meets. He is hard working and always willing to help when needed.
Jim worked for over 30 years as a custodian with the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital in Goderich. However, it is his dedication to helping in the community that makes him a vital part of the Huron County community. For many years he supported people who faced suicide and drug addiction. He has also helped students in school to achieve their goals.
At Huron Hospice, Jim has been a volunteer at the residence since it opened in 2017. He dedicates one hour each day, seven days a week to clean the Hospice residence. Jim ensures clients, staff and volunteers live and work in a clean and safe environment. Throughout the COVID 19 pandemic, volunteers have not been able to visit the residence and cook for clients; however, Jim agreed to continue to come and clean.
During the pandemic, he has come twice a day to make sure the residence is sanitized. Jim is always willing to go above and beyond what is expected by coming more often and doing different things to meet the pandemic’s increased requirements.
As a volunteer, Jim saves Huron Hospice $1,100 a month that they would have to pay someone to come to clean and sanitize. Huron Hospice is truly blessed to have Jim as one of their amazing volunteers.
HEALTH DISCOVERY CAMP
STUDENTS EXPLORE PASSION AND INTEREST IN HEALTHCARE FIELDS
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
“I came into the camp thinking I knew what profession I wanted to go into but, having the opportunity to learn more about various health care careers and participate in practical skills I have now been inspired by something different.” – Student at Health Discovery Camp
On the week of July 11-15 Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) in partnership with Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) in Goderich and the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry launched the Health Discovery Camp at the beautiful Camp Klahanie, located just south of Goderich and owned by the Goderich Lions Club. The Discovery Healthcare Camp gave 26 high school students the opportunity to explore their passion and interest in the healthcare field.
The students learned important clinical assessment skills, ranging from head-to-toe health checks, suturing and casting. Along with critical thinking skills, they competed in case competitions, differential analysis, applied the Social Determinants of Health and even had the opportunity to visit various departments at AMGH such as the Laboratory and X-ray Department etc. Additionally, the students also participated in numerous teambuilding and healthcare inspired camp games.
The camp included presentations from many local leaders in the healthcare field, including: nurses, physicians, social workers, pharmacists, occupational therapists, a dentist, a psychiatrist and more. Schulich Medical Students and Gateway students also presented their career pathways.
Organizers noted that the feedback from the camp was phenomenal and they are thankful to have had such an energetic and hopeful group of young minds attend the 2022 Health Discovery Camp.
“The Discovery Healthcare Camp would not have been possible without the support of our local organizations. We are so grateful that you understood the importance of Huron County hosting this camp. With the evident shortage of health professionals across the region, it is our responsibility to try to expose our youth to the many wonderful healthcare careers available locally,” said Physician Recruitment Lead for AMGH, Gwen Devereaux, RN.
SUBMISSIONS

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Melody Falconer-Pounder
At Monday night’s Municipality of Bluewater Council meeting the first draft of Bayfield’s Secondary Plan was acknowledged and it is now available for viewing on the Municipality of Bluewater website. As it is being designed to shape the future of the village while paying homage to the community’s rich past I thought some of our readers might be interested in viewing it. To do so visit: Bayfield’s Secondary Plan – Draft.
This online access to the draft will provide all those who wish to do so an opportunity to sift through the document prior to the next phases in the process. The creation of the plan has been driven by people in the community with its development being guided by a Citizen Advisory Committee and the work continues with that committee set to review the draft in two week’s time. After that more community feedback will be collected during Public Open Houses set to happen in early September. The draft will then be revised in response to this feedback followed by a public meeting planned for October.
What is the purpose of a Secondary Plan? The document itself explains on Page 7: “A Secondary Plan is a land use planning tool which identifies the context, key characteristics, and distinct identity of the study area and responds with specific policies to guide future growth and development.”
The draft also offers an insight into the population growth of the village (Page 11). In 1996 there were 833 residents and as of 2021 this number had grown to 1394. Now, this might not sound like a big change but considering the population had hovered around the 800 mark since 1875, this bit of trivia speaks volumes as to why the creation of the Secondary Plan should prove to be not only a beneficial exercise but an interesting read as well. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.