PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY AT BAYFIELD BRIDGE OPEN FOR STROLLING

One of the first people to use the walkway and stop along the way to enjoy the gorgeous views of the harbor in all its autumnal splendor was Bayfield Ward Councilor for the Municipality of Bluewater BIll Whetstone.
Monday, Oct. 17 the pedestrian walkway across the newly built Bayfield Bridge was opened for foot traffic. One of the first people to use the walkway and stop along the way to enjoy the gorgeous views of the harbor in all its autumnal splendor was Bayfield Ward Councilor for the Municipality of Bluewater BIll Whetstone.
He had this to say about the experience, “I have to tell you. The walkway is beautifully done. Wow! It is simply the icing on the cake to a great, stunning architectural piece. Well worth the wait. I can see many, many people taking photos on the walkway. Honestly, I am so impressed.”
Editor’s Note: Many people will no doubt be heading to the bridge in the next little while to experience the walkway for themselves but for those who can’t readily get there Whetstone obliged the Bayfield Breeze by sharing some of the first pictures. These images of him crossing the walkway were taken Monday morning between rain showers.
52435474728_eb7db1973b_k
Bayfield Ward Councilor for the Municipality of Bluewater Bill Whetstone referred to the new pedestrian walkway as "the icing on the cake to a great, stunning architectural piece."
ENTERTAINERS AND FACE PAINTERS SOUGHT
The Christmas in Bayfield committee has so much going on as they get ready for the magical Christmas in Bayfield Weekend Nov. 18-20. They would like to thank the Municipality of Bluewater Council for reviewing and approving their bylaw exemption requests on Monday, Oct. 17 allowing them to proceed with their plans.
“We have had several interesting artisan/craft vendors request more information and apply for space, so that is moving along,” said Secretary-Treasurer of the BACC Terri Louch. “There is still time to let us know you would like to attend by completing the application.”
The application can be accessed here: Application Form. Cost for the weekend is $100 and applications will be accepted until Nov. 11.
“Do you or your group sing, dance, juggle, play an instrument or perform magic? Do you have an interesting skill that would entertain watchers? Would you like to be part of our amazing Christmas in Bayfield weekend?” asked Louch. “We are still actively searching for individuals or groups who want to be seen by potentially hundreds of people. There will be an open sided tent available for cover and together we will be able to schedule your time to perform. We are excited to offer some very interesting talents!”
There will be 30 minute and one hour time slots available Saturday, Nov. 19 from noon to 5 p.m. or Sunday, Nov. 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Interested people are asked to send an email villageofbayfield@gmail.com with their details and their preferred time slot and organizers will work to include them in the line-up.
Buskers or street performers are also being sought. There will be an opportunity to be placed around the town one or both days of the weekend.
Organizers are also seeking a face painter or a team of face painters. They will have a designated area to work with children and adults alike who will love the opportunity to participate in this activity.
“We could not host Christmas in Bayfield without support from our businesses. Thanks so much to the members who have generously supported Christmas in Bayfield with a donation so everyone can enjoy a fun-filled weekend: It takes a Village to put this event together, and we are very grateful to have amazing supporters. Where possible, stop in and visit their businesses today!” said Louch.
To view the list of businesses that have donated to date please visit: Christmas in Bayfield Donors.
Be sure to watch for further updates here in the Bayfield Breeze, or on the Christmas in Bayfield Facebook and Instagram pages where organizers will continue to highlight those who will be participating in the maker’s market, performing in the Library Square as well as those who are making a difference through financial contributions.
WOODLAND TRAIL NOW OPEN
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) is happy to announce that the Woodland Trail is now open and will remain so until Monday, Nov. 7.
The trail will be closed again for hunting for two separate weeks: Nov. 7-13 and Dec. 5-11. Please follow the posted signs.
“As always, we thank the private landowners who support use of the Woodland Trail on their properties,” said Ralph Blasting, representing the BRVTA.
There will be two guided fall hikes in the coming weeks: Climate Change on the Great Lakes and National Take a Hike Day.
On Saturday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m., environmental educator Michele Martin will lead a walk through the village and down to the waterfront, pointing out how climate change is affecting the area and what people can do to help. Those interested are asked to meet at the Clan Gregor Square Gazebo for a walk lasting about 90 minutes.
The final guided hike of 2022 will be on Mavis’ Trail and the Taylor Trail on Thursday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. National Take a Hike Day celebrates the nearly 300,000 km of trails in Canada, 80,000 of which are in Ontario.
This little hike of 3.5 km will start at the Varna Complex parking lot and take participants through evergreen and deciduous forests, over small streams, and down to the Bayfield River. A map can be found at Mavis-Taylor Trail.
For questions or more information contact Ralph Blasting via email at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or call 519 525-3205.
PET VALU LOCATION OF ADOPTION EVENT
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has so many wonderful cats and kittens looking for their forever families right now that they have temporarily closed their doors to intakes.
“We currently have over 60 kittens and have many waiting to come in,” explained Penhale. “We will be doing an adoption event at Pet Valu in Goderich in October.”
The adoption event at the Pet Valu in Goderich will be held on Oct. 22-23 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Clementine and Skittles are the Adopt a BFF kittens of the week.
“These two come from a litter of five that were brought in; they are the smallest of the two with Skittles, the black and white, being the smallest.” said Penhale. Skittles has a prolapsed anus and will be receiving some veterinary care as a result.
According to Penhale, she is the runt of the litter and weighs only 450 grams while her siblings are all reaching the 800 plus grams range. She is requiring a little bit of special care and extra feedings to try and help her catch up.
“Despite all her problems she is a snuggler,” said Penhale. “She fits in the palm of your hand but tries to climb your arm to nuzzle into your neck.” Volunteers are hoping to get her on the right path and get her weight up as she needs to be 1,100 grams, or 2.2 lbs, before she can be considered for surgery.
Clementine is the second smallest of the litter. She is very playful and curious.
“She will climb you like a tree and sit on your shoulder like a parrot and purr in your ear,” said Penhale. “She is very protective of her much smaller little sister.”
These are just two of the many kittens BFF currently has in their care and although they are not currently available for adoption BFF can offer, in some instances, a foster to adopt program to try and get more of these kittens out of the shelter and into homes where they can flourish.
“We have a very, very long list of kittens and cats waiting to come in, and again as we always state, intakes are related directly to how many of the kittens we have currently that we can get into foster homes or adopted before we can bring in new kittens that are still out on the street, out in the elements,” concluded Penhale.
Anyone who might be interested in adopting any of this week’s featured cats and kittens is 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.
IN MEMORIAM
TIMMINS LEFT THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE
The community will be saddened to learn that a well-respected member of the village died unexpectedly on Oct. 14.
Arlene Timmins, was born in Windsor, ON, on Oct. 30, 1940, the first born child of Fred and Marjorie Hayward. Next came her beloved siblings, Elaine and Fred, and the family eventually made their way to London. Arlene excelled at school and by the age of 16 was enrolled in Teacher’s College. Her career path changed course when she met and eventually married Tom Timmins in 1959. Four children followed in rapid succession.
In the mid-1970s, Arlene set out on a new path which included attending King’s College and earning her Bachelor of Social Work. After graduating, she held various leadership roles in groundbreaking organizations including Womanpower, Women Immigrants of London and Phoenix Housing Co-operative (Second Stage Housing).
In the early 1990s Arlene met her partner, Roberta Stemp, and moved to Bayfield where they built an incredible life filled with friendship, advocacy, and community. Arlene volunteered her time to several organizations in her community including the Bayfield Public Library; Home4Good, Bayfield; and Huron Hospice. Despite being long retired, Arlene continued to provide counselling services to a number of clients.
Arlene was happiest in her kitchen, always eager to try new recipes. She loved all things kitchenware and flatware. It is fitting that her last evening earthside was spent preparing food and enjoying the company of some of her dearest friends. She loved birding trips with her friends, books, a good G & T, an evening with tea and Jeopardy and family gatherings with her kids and grandkids.
An incredible conversationalist, a loyal and dedicated friend to many, and a giver of love and her time. She left the world a better place.
Left to honor her incredible life are her partner, Roberta Stemp, her children Brian Timmins (Ana Maria Piddo), Mike Timmins (Michelle Lundy), Peter Timmins (Kathryn Turner), and Elaine Swan (Rick Swan). She was the adored Grandma to nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, Nov.24 from 1-4 p.m. at the Bayfield Town Hall, 11 The Square, in Bayfield, ON.
For those wishing to do so, donations made in Arlene’s memory to Huron Hospice or Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com) would be greatly appreciated by the family.
MAIN STREET UPDATE
Changes to the look of Bayfield Main Street are happening daily now as the construction continues.
Curbs have been installed and sidewalks have started along the west side of Main Street. Construction will continue until the end of November.
Curb and sidewalk installation should begin along the east side of Main Street this week. Work will start on the north end of Main Street, moving south. Some of the Main Street parking on the east side may be temporarily restricted during this time. There will be access to businesses during the curb and sidewalk installation.
There will continue to be large heavy equipment working on Main Street. Public Works staff request that people please walk on the opposite side of the street from the heavy equipment vehicles. These large vehicles often have limited visibility to see pedestrians close by.
They would also like to ask that people be mindful of wet concrete curbs and sidewalks. In addition, they offer a gentle reminder to walk and drive with care during the next few months as the Bayfield Main Street Revitalization Project continues.
EARLY YEARS

The Bayfield Community Centre is the new home of the Bayfield Playgroup organized by the Ontario Early Years Child and Family Centre. (Submitted photo)
The Ontario Early Years Child and Family Centre is now hosting the Bayfield Playgroup at the Bayfield Arena and Community Centre, 4 Jane Street, on Thursday mornings.
The sessions are held from 10-11:30 a.m. and are free to all families/caregivers with infants to children aged six years.
Staff are planning a special event for the youngsters on Thursday, Oct. 27 when they will be holding their annual Bayfield Halloween Costume Parade. Participants are asked to meet in Clan Gregor Square at 10 a.m. The tykes, along with their adults, will be parading down Bayfield’s Main Street and then back to the park for songs and a story.
TOWN HALL CONCERT
Julian Taylor will be the next musical talent to grace the Bayfield Town Hall stage with a concert date set for Nov. 5.
Taylor is a Toronto-based, award-winning singer-songwriter, radio host, and label owner. Over the course of his esteemed career, which spans 20-plus years as the leader of Staggered Crossing, Julian Taylor Band, and his solo work, he has established himself as one of Canada’s greatest troubadours.
His 2020 LP, “The Ridge”, earned two Juno Award nominations, along with a pair of Canadian Folk Music Awards for Solo Artist and English Songwriter of the Year, five Native American Music Award nominations, plus a nomination for Canada’s most prestigious music accolade, the Polaris Music Prize.
Taylor’s new album, “Beyond the Reservoir”, to be released this month and preceded by the single “S.E.E.D.S,” builds on the soul-folk sound and autobiographical themes first explored on The Ridge.
The doors to the hall will open at 7 p.m. with the concert to follow at 7:30 p.m. There will be a cash bar offering beer and wine.
Tickets to see this Indie artist perform are available now at www.bayfieldtownhall.com
SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE
The Village of Bayfield will observe Remembrance Day on Nov. 6 starting at 10:45 a.m. at the Cenotaph in Clan Gregor Square.
Bayfield’s services are held on the Sunday prior to Nov. 11th when musicians, clergy and legion members can avail themselves to the smaller centres. The ceremony will begin with a short parade of veterans, legion representatives and members of Bayfield Guiding forming up at the gazebo in the park.
FOOD BANK
Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) would like to share their gratitude for recent donations from the community.
“Thank you to residents at Pine Lake Campground for always being amazing contributors to BAFB through their fun events,” said President of the BAFB, Claire Trepanier. “This Fall’s contribution was collected at their golf tournament. Over 300 lbs of food was donated plus $900 in monetary donations.”
Trepanier also went on to extend thanks to the congregation of Knox Presbyterian Church for constantly thinking of BAFB with their monthly dried food donations.
“And to the many other people that are depositing dried/canned goods in the donation boxes – a big shout out. It takes a community,” concluded Trepanier.
BAFB now has a new dedicated phone number: 519 525-8286. People can also contact the food bank via email at bayfieldareafoodbank@gmail.com.
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 listed above or a donation can be received on-line through the www.canadahelps.org website.
SOUNDBATH SESSIONS
After a successful introductory session regarding the relaxing properties of a soundbath, Harp Therapist Martha Lawrance will be offering two more opportunities this year for those interested in experiencing the process of using guided imagery along with the sounds of the harp.
The program will be offered on Oct. 27 and Nov. 24 both at 3:30 p.m. at the Bayfield Community Centre. The program will not be held again until March of 2023. The cost is $20 per session or $35 for both. Payment can be made by e-transfer. Participants are asked to register. They can sign up on Wednesday morning during exercise classes at the centre or by contacting Lawrance at her website: harpheals.com
As the floor can be a little hard, those who take part are asked to bring a comfortable mat plus a pillow and/or blanket if desired.
The session will offer a deep relaxation soundbath that combines the vibrational and resonating power of the harp with Guided Imagery (GIM) techniques and voice. Creative visualization and deep relaxation aims at enhancing our ability to reconnect with ourselves. It can be adapted to suit various therapeutic intervention needs such as stress management, PTSD treatment, sleeplessness, meditation or yoga and mindfulness practice.
Once deeply relaxed the listener is transported through a series of visualizations, guided with harp and voice prompts. Participants create their own journey and finish with peaceful images and feelings to keep with them to return to when needed.
Any questions? Please email Martha Lawrance at harpheals@gmail.com.
SKATING CLUB
The Bayfield Skating Club is offering skating programs this 2022-2023 season at the Bayfield Arena and Community Centre!
Their programs suit a range of skating levels. Skaters will have fun staying active this winter through a variety of programs: learning the basics in Learn to Skate, building skills for all ice sports in CanSkate, an introduction to figure skating in Intro to STAR, and fast-paced Power Skills and Drills.
Tuesday classes are: Learn to Skate, 5-5:30 p.m.; CanSkate, 5:40-6:30 p.m.; and Intro to STAR, 6:30-7:20 p.m. Power Skills and Drills are offered on Thursdays at 5:30-6:20 p.m. and 6:30-7:20 p.m.
Their season begins Oct. 25. Learn to Skate is currently full, but registration is open for all other programs! For further details or to register online, visit: Bayfield Skating Club Registration.
Email bayfieldskatingclub@gmail.com with any questions. Instructors can’t wait to see their skaters on the ice!
WREATH MAKING

The Bayfield Agricultural Society is looking for volunteers to cut the grapevines and/or evergreen boughs and assemble the wreaths for their annual holiday fundraiser. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) is still looking for sources of grapevines and cedar, white pine, spruce or juniper boughs for the BAS annual wreath-making fundraiser. If anyone has grapevines or evergreen trees on their property that could be used for some bough cutting, the BAS would be very grateful. A volunteer coordinator for this work would also be welcome.
The BAS is also still looking for volunteers to cut the grapevines and/or evergreen boughs and assemble the wreaths.
All of this work will be completed between mid-October and mid-November, with dates and times to be announced. Assembly of the wreaths will take place inside the new BAS shed/barn in the Agricultural Park.
Anyone who can help out is asked to contact info@bayfieldfair.ca.
GIRL GUIDE COOKIES
After a two year absence the Chocolatey Mint Girl Guide cookie is back and available now from members of Bayfield Guiding!
They are selling for $5 a box and there is a limited supply so they are sure to sell quickly.
Anyone not familiar with a youth member who would like to purchase a box or two is encouraged to call Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.
RIDERSHIP ON THE RISE WITH HURON SHORES AREA TRANSIT

Service provision is contracted to Voyago, a leading passenger mobility service provider serving 30,000 people daily. (Submitted photos)
Serving a combined rural population of just more than 36,000 in Lambton Shores, South Huron, Bluewater, North Middlesex, and Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, Huron Shores Area Transit’s (HSAT) first two operational years (2020 and 2021) were shaped by government imposed shut-downs and stay-at-home advisories, not an ideal time to launch a new transit system!
In 2021, HSAT had 1,600 passengers. By the end of August 2022, ridership exceeded 5,000 passengers in eight months. Compared to the same month of the previous year, that’s a 594 per cent difference! If the ridership trend continues, by the end of 2022, ridership could top 7,500 passengers.
Not surprisingly, the area’s summer months witnessed a bump in ridership. Buses traveling from London to Grand Bend were filled to capacity, necessitating two additional bus runs every Saturday and Sunday from mid-July to Labour Day.
“It’s been a busy summer,” said Susan Mills, the new Transit coordinator who took over the role at the end of June this year. “Beginning about mid-July, we had regular passengers telling us they could not get on the bus because it was already full when it arrived at their stop. We also took immediate action and doubled the number of bus runs from London to Grand Bend.”
The highest-performing stop in the transit system is located opposite Masonville Mall; a shared London Transit stop, which accounted for 2,004 passengers. Similarly, Lambton Mall in Sarnia accounted for 409 passengers. Other top-performing bus stops include University Hospital in London, 221 passengers; Kettle Point Plaza, 215 passengers and Sanders Street stop in Exeter, 204 passengers. Thirty riders used the wheelchair/scooter passenger spots.
In February of this year, Route 3, which services towns and villages of Bluewater, was extended to Goderich. HSAT’s Route 3 passes through St. Joseph, Zurich, Hensall, and Bayfield on its way to Goderich. In Bayfield there are two stops – one in front of the Bayfield Town Hall and one on Cameron Street at Hwy. 21.
“Although usage of that stop is still low, with the recent partnership agreement between South Huron Hospital and Alexandra Marine and General Hospital, the need to access hospital appointments in Goderich is expected to rise along with ridership,” said Mills.
“It was interesting to discover which bus stops were the most used and who’s using the bus system,” said Mills. “We get many inquiries through the Facebook page, mostly from young adults and twenty-somethings who use the bus to get to work, go shopping, and socialize and now use it to get to university and college. We have one stop right on the Lambton College campus. We’ve even had parents send us testimonials about how convenient it is that their kids can get around without relying on a drive from Mom or Dad.”
Although the majority of passengers, 82 per cent, pay cash, about 15 per cent of passengers use Smart Cards to pay for bus rides. Launched in February 2021, 991 active tap-and-go Smart Cards are now in use. Smart Cards enable passengers to set up a transit account and add dollar value to their card by credit card or debit visa, monitor their balance, transfer the balance of a lost card to a replacement card and obtain receipts for tax purposes. Specially marked Smart Card Packages are available from local libraries, health centres, grocery stores, and other handy local retail locations.
When weather, construction, vehicle breakdown, or other unforeseen event delays or interrupts service, passengers can rely on several methods of notification, including social media announcements, email, and mobile apps like Google Maps and the “Transit” app (transitapp.com). Coming soon will be an easy-to-use texting service with notifications going directly to a passenger’s mobile. Every bus stop will have a QR code and bus stop number. By scanning the QR code, passengers can get bus schedule information and sign up for service notifications from their cell phones.
“This was one of the things I was really happy to get into place,” said Mills. “I have spent time standing at bus stops and wondering when the next bus would arrive. I wish we had today’s technology then. If we have a delay or service interruption, I can quickly get the word out to our passengers.”
Mills is also working to improve the overall transit experience by re-evaluating bus stop performance, the distance between bus stops, bus schedules, transit shelters, and access to bus and schedule information at every bus stop.
Mills noted, “There’s a lady who walks almost an hour to the Kettle Point Plaza bus stop, and although she loves the access to public transit, we want to reduce that distance. We hope to add a bus stop between Port Franks and Kettle & Stony Point First Nation to break up that distance and make it easier for passengers to get on the bus.”
With pandemic closures in the rear view, the promotion of the bus system has increased to bring greater awareness among residents and build ridership. Over the next six to eight months, look for advertising on outdoor billboards, electronic boards, social media campaigns, print and radio ads, vehicle wraps, and admail campaigns.
Visit www.huronshoresareatransit.ca for information about routes, schedules, fares, Smart Cards, and more. Or to speak with a live operator about times and schedules, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, call 1-888-465-0783.
HSAT is funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Community Transportation Grant Program (CTGP) to support local and intercommunity bus service and to make transit within and between communities a reality. HSAT is also supported by its municipal partners and its passengers through fares. Municipal partners include Lambton Shores, Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, the Municipality of South Huron, the Municipality of Bluewater, and the Municipality of North Middlesex.
HSAT is a member of Southwest Community Transit (SCT), an association of member municipalities and non-profit organizations in Southwest Ontario working to increase travel connections between under-served areas, rural communities, and urban cities. Service provision is contracted to Voyago, a leading passenger mobility service provider serving 30,000 people daily.
52435324276_3b21810550_o
This Huron Shores Area Transit bus stop sign in located at St. Joseph. In Bayfield there are two stops - one in front of the Bayfield Town Hall and one on Cameron Street at Hwy. 21.
CKNX RADIOTHON BENEFITS AREA HOSPITALS

Nicole Jutzi (left), Executive director of the Wingham & District Hospital Foundation, accepts a donation from Sarah Bender, Marketing and Communications coordinator for West Wawanosh Mutual Insurance as part of the 20th annual CKNX Radiothon. (Submitted photo)
The CKNX Radiothon event has a strong tradition of generating fundraising dollars in support of local hospitals, and this year was no exception. The 21st Annual CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon took to the airwaves on Oct. 15 and raised an incredible $364,559.60 in support of the eight participating hospitals in Mid-Western Ontario.
Continuing with a virtual format this year, donations were accepted during the all-day broadcast on AM920, which featured heartwarming stories from patients, as well as interviews with health care professionals and volunteers outlining the urgent medical equipment needs at each hospital. A number of philanthropic businesses and organizations, including: Bruce Power, Germania Mutual Insurance, West Wawanosh Mutual Insurance, AXIOM Mutual Insurance Co, Howick Mutual Insurance, Howick Optimists and Brussels Legion Branch 218 directed special gifts towards several hospital foundations.
Among the projects funded by this year’s Radiothon are: a laparoscopic tower, colonoscopes, a gastroscope, an ultrasound machine, cardiac monitor upgrades, an anesthetic machine, a steam autoclave and operating room lighting.
When the Radiothon went off air at 4 p.m., the grand total of funds raised was $364,559.60. This total is expected to grow as the participating hospital foundations continue to accept donations towards their projects until the end of the year.
This year’s CKNX Radiothon benefitted the following eight hospital foundations: Clinton Hospital Foundation, Hanover & District Hospital Foundation, Listowel Memorial Hospital Foundation, Mount Forest Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation, Palmerston and District Hospital Foundation, Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation, Walkerton and District Hospital Foundation and Wingham & District Hospital Foundation
Since its inception in 2002, the CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon has raised more than $13,589,000 in support of quality health care for rural area hospitals. To find out how to contribute to your hospital’s Radiothon goal, visit: Radiothon.
HURON AREA NEWCOMER FUND LAUNCHED

From left: Christine Marshall of the Wingham Community Connectors, along with John Maaskant and Michael Daley of the Goderich Lions Club, are among the committee members of the Huron Newcomer Fund. (Submitted photo)
A local initiative kicked off recently to support Huron County newcomers from Ukraine and other parts of the world.
The Goderich Lions Club, in collaboration with various community organizations, has launched the Huron Area Newcomer Fund.
“The Fund was formed to support immigrants and refugees settling in the Huron area within their first 18 months of living in Canada,” said John Maaskant, chair of the Huron Area Newcomer Fund Committee. “The intent is to meet demonstrated needs caused by unforeseen or extraordinary costs which are beyond the capacity of supportive agencies or individuals to provide.”
Since April 2022, more than 40 people from Ukraine have arrived in Huron County, most of them billeting with host families. Refugees from other parts of the world have also settled in Huron County recently.
“Up to $1,500 towards one family is available if a newcomer applies for funding,” Maaskant said.
The fund is currently seeking donations to support those who arrive in Huron County.
People interested can direct their donation to the Goderich Lions Club, with a note indicating that the money is to be directed to the Newcomer Fund.
Representatives from the Wingham Community Connectors, Goderich Ministerial Association and the Huron County Immigration Partnership are collaborating on this project with the Goderich Lions Club.
Please visit the Goderich Lions Club webpage for more information: Newcomer Fund
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
LIVERY FILM FEST
“Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen, A Journey, A Song” is the next movie in the Livery Film Fest series.
It will play for one night only this Thursday, October 20 at 7 p.m. at the Park Theatre in Goderich.
This film is the story of Leonard Cohen’s song, Hallelujah, and features interviews with Bob Dylan, Judy Collins, Rufus Wainwright, and others. It goes into how the song was almost never released on an album until a number of other artists covered it, and its fame became too great to ignore.
Then on Nov. 10, “Official Competition” will be shown. This insanely funny Spanish film stars Penelope Cruz and Antonio Banderas. In it, their characters try to make a film specifically to win the Palme d’Or top prize at the Cannes Film Festival. What can go wrong when you have strong egos, and unlimited funding?
Tickets are $12, or $8 for Livery members. All proceeds go to the non-profit Livery Theatre.
UNITED WAY

Celebrating Libro’s recent donation toward the creation of the Northern Huron Connection Centre were representatives from Libro and United Way Perth Huron (UWPH) from l-r: Shawn Lawler, Libro; Lisa Harper and Ryan Erb, UWPH; Marty Rops, Tanya Quipp and Debb Finch, all from Libro. (Submitted photo)
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is proud to announce Libro Credit Union has provided $20,000 through their Annual Community Grant program in support of UWPH’s Northern Huron Connection Centre (NHCC) project in Wingham.
“We appreciate Libro’s support,” said UWPH Executive Director Ryan Erb. “This donation is another important step toward making the NHCC a reality. The issue of homelessness has been top of mind across Perth-Huron. Based on the positive impact we’ve seen connection centres make in the communities they’re already part of, we’re looking forward to bringing this important resource to northern Huron in support of residents experiencing homelessness.”
“Every partnership we form has a direct impact on those around us,” said Marty Rops, Huron Perth Regional manager for Libro. “Housing is a cornerstone pillar at Libro, and we believe that success comes from partnerships like the one we have with United Way.”
“On behalf of the Northern Huron Community Committee I would also like to thank Libro for their support,” added Lisa Harper, UWPH manager Community Development, Northern Huron. “This project is an important one for northern Huron and we appreciate Libro recognizing how beneficial it will be for the community. We hope Libro’s grant inspires other local organizations to support our capital campaign and help us meet our $130,000 goal.”
Serving Howick, Morris-Turnberry and North Huron, the NHCC is intended as a welcoming, safe space for the community’s most vulnerable citizens to rest, access basic needs, healthcare services, identification assistance and more. Partnerships with agencies — including Choices for Change, the organization chosen by UWPH to operate the centre — mean those using the NHCC can access important services and support under one roof. UWPH is hoping to open the centre in February of 2023.
NEW INITIATIVE GRANTS
Is your organization aware of a local issue that needs to be addressed? Are you considering how to best deliver services to the community? It’s these types of questions United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is looking to answer through their New Initiative Grants process that opened on Monday, Oct. 17.
“The New Initiative Grant program is a great opportunity for community organizations,” said UWPH Director of Governance and Community Impact Megan Partridge. “It’s a way to respond to emerging needs, test service models, support smaller projects and help pilot new ones.”
New Initiative Grants provide up to $20,000 for one year for projects developed by registered Canadian charities, incorporated not-for-profit organizations or qualified donees that are planning to, or already deliver, social and community services in Perth and/or Huron.
Expressions of interest can be submitted to UWPH until Nov. 4. Submissions will be reviewed based on eligibility requirements and organizations will be notified whether or not their initiative has been approved to move on to the full application stage. Full applications are then to be submitted by Nov. 25.
For more details visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca, call 519 271-7730 Ext. 225 or emai lmpartridge@perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
OWL PROWLS
The popular Owl Prowl is returning in 2022 with two dates and locations.
These Owl Prowls will take place at Rock Glen Conservation Area (RGCA), Arkona, on Saturday, Oct. 22 and at Morrison Dam Conservation Area (MDCA), east of Exeter, on Saturday, Nov. 5. There will be two time slots for the Owl Prowls – 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on both dates.
Nina Sampson is a Conservation Educator with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA). She said the two Oct. 22 sessions are the first times this conservation authority is hosting an Owl Prowl at Rock Glen.
“We are excited to bring back the Owl Prowl in 2022 and we are also excited to host our first Owl Prowls at Rock Glen Conservation Area,” she said. “It’s wonderful to host this event at different times and at different locations in our watershed area.”
The Owl Prowls are held to raise awareness of nocturnal creatures in the watershed and to raise funds for conservation education programs provided by ABCA.
“These events are a great chance to get out and get active in nature, listen for owls, learn about animals that are active at night, and to support needed conservation education programs.”
The maximum number of people at each time slot is 50. Half of each group starts inside to learn about adaptations owls make. The other half of the group begins with a short trail walk to listen to, and call for, owls. Afterwards, each half switches so the inside group goes outside and the outside group goes inside. Space is limited for the events and tickets must be reserved in advance, according to organizers.
Rock Glen Conservation Area is located on the outskirts of Arkona at 8680 Rock Glen Road. Morrison Dam Conservation Area is located at 71108 Morrison Line, just two km east of Exeter, just south of Highway 83.
To learn more about the events go to: Owl Prowl. Register here for the Rock Glen Owl Prowl or the Morrison Dam Owl Prowl .
When registering for the event, registrants have the option to add a donation to Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation. The Conservation Foundation provides charitable gift receipts, for income tax purposes, for donations of $20 or more.
Owls are incredible creatures of the night. Over the years, hundreds of people have learned about owls and their amazing nocturnal adaptations at the annual Owl Prowl.
TEXTILE SHOW AND SALE
The Huron Tract Spinners and Weavers and the Goderich Quilters’ Guild are combining their talents once again to present their annual Textile Show and Sale during the first weekend of November in Goderich.
The public will be able to view and purchase unique traditional and modern weaving, basketry, beading, spinning, knitting and felting. Also for sale will be quilts and quilted items from wall hangings through to queen size bedding.
There is no admission fee to this event that will feature two of Huron County’s most creative groups at the same time in one location. The show will run on Saturday, Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Huron County Museum, 110 North Street in Goderich.
For more information please visit the Huron Tract Spinners and Weavers Facebook Page or www.goderichquiltersguild.com.
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.
CHRISTMAS PARADE
The Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce is happy to announce that the Christmas Parade will once again be part of the Christmas in Bayfield Weekend activities. The parade will be held on Saturday, Nov. 19 with a start time of 11 a.m.
Of course a parade needs participants and those are being sought now. Anyone who would like to take part in the parade is asked to email Bayfield.Ontario.Chamber@gmail.com indicating their intention to participate, the length of their entry and the contact person’s name and email.
Participants will be sent notification of their position in the parade as well as further details two days prior to the event. Participants are asked to line up at 10 a.m. in anticipation of the start of the parade one hour later.
REMEMBER THIS
THE YOUNG CANUCKSTORIANS PROJECT
- In February of this year, Bayfield Guiding was invited to take part in an exciting opportunity by the Huron County Museum – “The Young Canuckstorians Project” (Canuckstorians). The Guides, Pathfinders and Rangers were asked to select from a list of historically significant Huron County women to research and write a script about with guidance from Sinead Cox at the Museum.After a few weeks of dedicated work they made a visit to Faux Pop Station in Goderich where under the enthusiastic direction of on-air personality Roz Elliott and audio expert Andrew Bouck they became voice actors! Their voices were then lended to animated characters created to share the stories they wrote.
Canuckstorians is the brainchild of animator Mickey Maple who brought Bayfield Guiding’s characters to life while highlighting some exceptional people, both living and dead, that once called Huron County home. The projects were sponsored by Bruce Power, Goderich IODE and Local LiUNA 1059.
Today marks the second instalment of a seven part series on “The Young Canuckstorians Project” in Remember This. We will be sharing this series of animations with our readers in the lead up to their Gala Premiere which will take place in the Huron County Museum theatre on Saturday, Nov. 26. This week we share the story of Hensall, ON native, Dr. Jennie Smillie featuring the voices of Bayfield Guiding members, Leora and Ella.
BAYFIELD LIONS CLUB
FISHERMEN RETURN TO THE BAYFIELD RIVER
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER AND EJ BAUER
Just over 190 tickets were sold for the 44th Annual Joe Brandon Memorial Bayfield Lions Club Rainbow Trout Derby that was held over the weekend of Oct. 14-16.
Fifteen Rainbow Trout and 10 Salmon were caught by fishing enthusiasts over the course of the weekend with the event headquarters being Rainbow Valley Campground in Bayfield. Weighmaster for the event was Dave Heatherington.
Winners for reeling in the heaviest trouts were: 1st, Tony Fuentes, of Stratford, with a Rainbow weighing 8.2 lbs; 2nd, Riley Brennan of Stratford, 7.9 lbs; and 3rd, Tyler Miner, of Varna, 7.3 lbs.
The Eric Earle Trophy, awarded to participants aged 15 and under, went to Brandon Vorsterveld, 14, of Point Clark, with a 1.8 lb trout. There was no recipient for the William Thorpe Trophy, aged 16-18, this year.
The prize for the largest Salmon was won by Kevin Taylor, of Sarnia, with a catch weighing 18.3 lbs.
The winner of the draw for a Nautibouy Fishing Charter was Jeff Sturgeon, of Orangeville. The draws for two gift cards to Bailey’s Custom Builds for custom built fishing rods were won by Frank Zrini, of Thamesford, and Josh Rowse, of London.
52434949661_3970873086_k
Just over 190 tickets were sold for the 44th Annual Joe Brandon Memorial Bayfield Lions Club Rainbow Trout Derby that was held over the weekend of Oct. 14-16. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
52436231154_d3b49fafbf_k
The trees along the river provide a colorful backdrop for fisherman during the trout derby held over the weekend. (Photo by EJ Bauer)
52435443332_cbe463edbc_h
Lion Tom Grasby presented Riley Brennan, of Stratford, the second place prize money for his 7.9 lbs trout. (Photo by EJ Bauer)
52435226274_41d3d65b4a_k
Fifteen Rainbow Trout and 10 Salmon were caught by fishing enthusiasts over the course of the weekend with the event headquarters being Rainbow Valley Campground in Bayfield. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
52435224934_6938cfdf1c_k
It was rather windy down at the harbor on Saturday afternoon but that didn't prevent some brave souls from fishing pier side. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
52434949941_a1996a9bf7_k
Many fisherman chose the shores of the Bayfield River to fish along on Saturday sheltered from the wind that was at times brisk. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
52438029758_cf64a582d2_k
Tony Fuentes, of Stratford, took first place and the $800 in prize money for a Rainbow weighing 8.2 lbs. Rainbow Valley Campground Owner, Gary Brandon (left) helped him hoist the trophy! (Photo by EJ Bauer)
52437783274_1351464a97_k
Lion Tom Grasby presented the Eric Earle Trophy, awarded to participants aged 15 and under, to Brandon Vorsterveld, 14, of Point Clark, with a 1.8 lb trout. Brandon was also the winner of this prize in 2018! (Photo by EJ Bauer)
52437405036_d21d568dff_k
Brandon Bailey, the creative behind Bailey’s Custom Builds donated two $10 gift cards for a draw for custom fishing rods. He was thanked for his generosity by Lion John Zrini, co-convenor of the derby. (Photo by EJ Bauer)
52437003927_df2a3c5732_h
Tyler Miner, of Varna, earned third prize for his trout weighing 7.3 lbs. He was presented with the prize money by Lion Tom Grasby (right), co-convenor of the derby. (Photo by EJ Bauer)
52436470808_3defad51ac_k
The derby which commences on Friday runs until noon on Sunday and many participants bring a few comforts, like tents, to ensure a pleasant weekend. (Photo by EJ Bauer)
For a closer look at these images click on any one to open a pop up gallery.
SUBMISSIONS

51854912498_7d52e952ba_k
Melody Falconer-Pounder
BoBo the cat is on the road to becoming an Instagram star in addition to his current claim to fame – Ambassador for Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF).
Many of our subscribers will be familiar with the leash-trained BoBo especially if they are frequent visitors to Pioneer Park or the marina or the points in between as he and his humans Greg Csullog and Andrée LeClair go for regular walks in those parts of the village. Pioneer Park is one of BoBo’s favorite haunts and he encourages Greg to take him there quite regularly.
Greg recently created an Instagram page for the cat entitled, “bobo_in_Bayfield” after several people told him they had seen pictures of BoBo on Facebook and Instagram. Something Greg found curious.
“I did not have an account with either platform. I have never been big on social media,” said Greg. “Having said that, I thought, ‘What the heck? Why don’t I post photos of BoBo?’ So, I created an Instagram account for him.
BoBo is a true BFF success story. To read about how this beautiful tabby “emerged from his early start as a wild cat to become something of a neighborhood celebrity” I invite you to visit the Bayfield Breeze Archives and read the story published in Issue 642 Week 44 dated Oct. 27, 2021.
And now as BoBo transitions from neighborhood celebrity to social media influencer we will be able to say we knew him when! Here’s a link to his Instagram page: BoBo in Bayfield. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.