CLAN GREGOR TRANSFORMED INTO WINTER WONDERLAND
PHOTOS BY WENDY VASCO
Friday, Nov. 18 was a wee bit wintery but that didn’t chill the enthusiasm of those who attended the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Clan Gregor Square. Enhanced lighting and some new additions to the display transformed the square into a Winter Wonderland for residents and visitors to enjoy throughout the festive season.
Editor’s Note: To learn more about all the happenings from Christmas in Bayfield weekend scroll through this issue. There is much more in our Photo Story section. Plus be sure to check out our next edition – Issue 699 – for other highlights including coverage of The Glee Sisters Children’s Concert.
BAYFIELD SECONDARY PLAN PUBLIC MEETING THIS SATURDAY MORNING
The process of formulating a Secondary Plan for Bayfield continues and is now moving to the public consultation stage with opportunities for residents to comment upcoming.
An Open House will be held this Friday, Nov. 18 at the Bayfield Public Library and interested individuals are welcome to drop by anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. There will be interactive panels provided for feedback and staff available to answer questions.
A Public Meeting will be held on Saturday, Nov. 26 starting at 9:30 a.m. in the Bayfield Community Centre. A formal presentation by staff will be conducted followed by a question period and time to provide feedback.
“Please join us to review and discuss the first draft of the Bayfield Secondary Plan this month! If you are not able to attend in person, online feedback forms will be available on the Huron County Connects page or you can email directly to Planning staff,” said Manager of Planning for the County of Huron and Staff Lead for Planned Bayfield, Denise Van Amersfoort.
Owners of large, undeveloped parcels of land will be receiving an invitation for one-on-one meetings through the mail. Should they not receive one and wish to understand how the Secondary Plan will influence the future development of their property, they should please call or email Van Amersfoort at dvanamersfoort@huroncounty.ca or call 1-888-524-8394 Ext. 3 to set up a time. Meetings can be in person on-site or by phone.
Public feedback will be reviewed by the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) and incorporated into the Secondary Plan before Bluewater Council receives the final document in early 2023.
The CAC has completed their review of the first draft of the Secondary Plan and it is available for public review and feedback. A more condensed version of the draft policies has been prepared in response to Committee feedback. Other recent changes include:
- Removal of Neighborhood Commercial policies;
- Maintain ‘Highway Commercial’ designation name and scale back extent of designation expansion along Hwy 21 and Mill Road;
- Proceed with minimum density requirement of 15 units per hectare for future development lands;
- Proceed with series of zoning-related changes that support the vision outlined in the Secondary Plan; and
- Compilation of additional recommendations that support the vision of Bayfield as outlined in the Secondary Plan.
The community’s vision of Bayfield as articulated in the initial rounds of public input is of a walkable, green and vibrant community that maintains an authentic village character. To achieve this vision, members of the CAC felt strongly that while some of the ideas raised during the development of the Secondary Plan are outside of scope of Official Plan policies and/or Zoning recommendations, it is important to document and forward these ideas to Bluewater Council as part of the Secondary Plan process.
Eleven recommendations are currently included.
The Bayfield Breeze began highlighting these recommendations in Issue 696 and Issue 697. The series concludes this issue. Highlights for this Issue include: reduction in road speed on local and arterial roads, unopened road allowances and active transportation linkages, and development of Paul Bunyan Road East of Hwy. 21 as an active transportation pathway.
Reduction in Road Speed on Local and Arterial Roads – It was noted that the road speed on local and arterial roads is of concern.
On County Road 3 (Mill Road), the speed is reduced from 90 km/h to 60 km/h at the water tower property. This was deemed acceptable given the current extent of development but may need to be re-assessed in future.
On Hwy 21, the speed limit at the south end is reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/h at the bridge north of the Keightley Plan of Subdivision; it is further reduced to 50 km/h at the Jane Street intersection.
At the north end of the village, the speed limit is reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/hour at The Docks/Hub restaurant property; it is further reduced to 50 km/h at the top of the hill (by the former LCBO property).
Recommendation: That Hwy 21 road speed reduction be pursued with the Ministry of Transportation to extend the 50 km/h zone within the Bayfield Settlement Area.
Unopened Road Allowances and Active Transportation Linkages – There is evidence of active transportation in areas of the village where no infrastructure exists; often referred to as ‘goat paths’, these present opportunities to create linkages and promote active transportation. There are also a series of unopened road allowances, which present opportunities for park space, active transportation, and the protection/promotion of natural spaces within the Village.
Recommendation: That the unopened road allowances be closed by Bylaw and maintained by the Municipality as pedestrian corridors, natural areas and also a space to accommodate linear infrastructure where necessary.
This recommendation applies to:
- Lidderdale Street between Jane and Victoria Streets;
- Margaret Street between Dow and Cameron Streets;
- Glass Street between Blair Street and John Avenue;
- Christy Street between Blair Street and John Avenue; and
- Victoria Street between Blair Street and John Avenue.
Note: Glass and Christy Street road allowances continue through Agricultural Park, which may also warrant consideration.
Recommendation 1: That the unopened road allowances of Howard and Victoria Streets west of Tuyll be closed by Bylaw and retained by the Municipality as passive parkspace. It is envisioned that the same number of parking spaces would be maintained at the Howard Street location to facilitate access to the Main Beach.
Recommendation 2: That the connection between Tuyll and Troy Streets be redeveloped to accommodate both stormwater management as well as an active transportation corridor.
Development of Paul Bunyan Road east of Hwy 21 as Active Transportation Pathway – It was suggested that until such time that Paul Bunyan Road east of Hwy 21 is required as an open road, that the area be utilized as an active transportation corridor (ie. walking path or multi-use trail).
Recommendation: That the establishment of a walking trail on the section of Paul Bunyan Road between Hwy 21 and Wildwood Line be considered within the Bluewater Master Recreation Plan process.
The Secondary Plan is available for review at www.connectedcountyofhuron.ca.
Anyone with questions, comments or concerns is asked to contact Van Amersfoort directly. Her contact information is listed above.

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Draft of the Land Use Schedule with recommended changes (Submitted photo) [click to enlarge]
GINGERBREAD COOKIES KITS DISTRIBUTED ON CHILLY SATURDAY

Members of the Geddis family of Bayfield stopped by the Gazebo in Clan Gregor Square to get their Gingerbread Cookie kits from Friends of the Bayfield Library following the parade on Saturday. Volunteer Carole Stinson was kept busy handing out the kits. (Photos by Melody Falconer-Pounder)

Nancy McHardy, a volunteer with Friends of the Bayfield Library, braved the cold wind to hand out 150 Gingerbread Cookie Kits to eager youngsters on Saturday morning.
Families bundled against the cold stopped by the gazebo in Clan Gregor Square following the Santa Claus Parade on November 19 to pick up Gingerbread Cookie Kits. The mittened hands of many children, accompanied by their adults, accepted 150 complimentary kits prepared by the Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL).
Each kit contained candies, icing and a gingerbread cookie for children to decorate at home. The traditional combination of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and other spices in the cookies may have warmed up more than a few bellies and hearts during the launch of Christmas in Bayfield.
Everyone who received a cookie kit was invited to fill out a draw ticket for a chance to win one of two $25 gift certificates donated by The Village Bookshop. The kits also held a few surprises, including a gingerbread themed bookmark with seasonal book suggestions for young readers prepared by Bayfield Public Library staff.
Event organizer Carmen Davies of FOBL said, “We were delighted to hand out all of the kits prepared by our volunteers and meet so many wonderful Bayfield and area families. Two young ladies, ages three and five years-old, were the winners of the $25 gift certificates.”
FOBL gratefully acknowledges The Village Bookshop for its generous donation and Bayfield Foodland for the icing containers.
Family members are invited to send photos of completed cookie masterpieces to contact@fobl.ca for inclusion on the FOBL website. For privacy reasons, no photos of children will be posted.
RESCUED BARN KITTENS NEED HOMES
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.
Archie and his sisters Betty and Veronica are the Adopt a BFF kittens of the week.
This trio were taken in from a barn when their mother disappeared. Sadly they are not able to make that farmhouse their home. They are all extremely sweet, loving kittens who want nothing more than attention.
They are all currently waiting for their spay/neutering appointments but will be seeking their forever home soon afterwards. The mortality rate for farm kittens is very high. These little ones were fortunate to have found caring people who raised them and gave them a temporary home.
It is the hope of BFF volunteers that they, and all the cats at BFF, find their forever homes soon.
BFF is currently in desperate need of some volunteers who might be willing to do some evening shifts at the Rescue.
Anyone who would like to meet Archie, Betty and Veronica or might consider volunteering is invited to contact BFF via email at 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.
And back by popular demand are The Pink Flamingo Bakery and Boutique’s “Christmas Paint Your Own Cookies” with 100 per cent of the proceeds raised from their sale going to BFF. The bakery hours are currently Thursday to Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is located at 28 Bayfield Main Street North.
LETTERS TO SANTA
For many years children have been invited to write a letter to Santa and drop it in a special box at the entrance to Bayfield Foodland and then patiently wait for a personalized reply. Pandemic restrictions required the Jolly Old Elf to pivot to accepting digital letters only but this year with the dropping of most protocols Santa is back to accepting traditional handwritten letters and the box is back at Foodland!
In fact, to keep up with the times, this year, Santa will accept both physical letters and emailed ones as well. However, so as not to confuse the elves Santa is requesting that children submit only one letter no matter what method they choose to communicate by.
Parents should ensure that their child’s full name and address are included with their letter. Emails may be sent to SantasLittleWorkshopNP@gmail.com. Letters will be accepted until Dec. 18.
LADIES NIGHT
With the focus on the kickoff weekend for Christmas in Bayfield now behind us, the construction slowing down and shopkeepers recuperating, people are invited out for a “Ladies Night of Christmas Shopping in Bayfield” on Thursday, Dec. 1st.
Shoppers are encouraged to fuel up prior to exploring the stores by dining out. Village restaurants are open for dinner reservations beginning at 5 p.m. with the exception of The Albion Hotel, as they can’t accommodate reservations on Wing Night.
Once sated, shoppers are encouraged to enjoy the holiday magic that Bayfield is famous for with shops open from 6:30- 9:30 p.m. Some of the businesses taking part in this independently organized event will have special offerings for the evening. The Metamorphic Rock Shoppe and Gallery, for example, is offering readings with Jackie from “Journeys of the Soul”, for a small fee.
SCARVES FOR FOOD BANK
In the spirit of positive thinking, Mary Cross, an upcycled designer and resident of Bayfield, has created a limited edition of 50 exquisite scarves in support of the Bayfield Area Food Bank. Cross noted that sales have been brisked since the launch on Nov. 18.
“This new collaboration is an opportunity for us all to pay it forward,” said Cross. “What a better cause than to shop local, support local and help feed local families. With only a limited amount of scarves produced, they are sure to sell fast and make the ideal holiday gift that keeps on giving.”
These 9’ x 24” upcycled scarves can be worn in so many ways and each piece is one-of-a-kind. These designer scarves are made in Bayfield and are available exclusively at the new Market 29, located at 29 Main Street North or by emailing info@3rclothingcompany.com. Cross would love it if people send her a photo of them wearing their one-of-a-kind scarf to this same email address.
Market 29 will be open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield continues to hold services on Sundays at 11 a.m. both in-person as well as on ZOOM for those who can’t physically attend.
The congregation is currently collecting new, warm socks during November and December, for those in need locally.
They are also looking forward to two special services. On Nov. 27 they will observe first Advent with a Service of Communion and then on Dec. 24 they will host a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7 p.m. with special music by soloist Linda Street.
YOGA SESSIONS
Metamorphic Rock Shoppe & Gallery is currently the location for Wednesday sessions of yoga.
Shannon Malolepszy leads a gentle and mindful vinyasa flow yoga practice where participants will master their breath, quiet their minds and journey on their mats towards deep relaxation.
The one hour sessions will begin at 9 a.m. Participants can drop-in to any class for $15 (please check space availability in advance).
For more information please call or text Shannon at 519 404-5199 or email shannon@saintongealliance.com.
Metamorphic Rock Shoppe & Gallery is located at 22 Bayfield Main Street North (beside Rumba).
WREATH SALES

The wreath sales organized as a fundraiser for the Bayfield Agricultural Society were as brisk as the weather on Saturday as the group sold out early. Working the booth were l-r: Doug Yeo, Justyna Chojnacka, Ted Dunn and, visiting from Nunavut, Bob Dunn. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) wishes to thank all those who purchased their locally sourced greens and locally made wreaths either by order or by picking them up during the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.
“We closed up very early in the afternoon (on Saturday) because all the wreaths were sold, all our decorator cones were distributed and all our bundles of greens were sold out,” said Doug Yeo, representing BAS.
There are only four swags/tails left and a few bows. These can be purchased by phoning 519 482-9296.
Yeo would like to remind everyone that if they would like to recycle their grapevine bases, after the wreath is taken down, they can be returned to any Board Member and they’ll be reused.
“A huge thank you to all our supporters – our buyers and volunteers. It was really easy cleaning up this year. We do hope the wreaths provide a reminder of the natural world being part of your celebrations,” Yeo concluded.
AG SOCIETY AGM
The Annual General Meeting of the Bayfield Agricultural Society will be held in the basement of St. Andrew’s United Church on Friday, Nov. 25.
This meeting, that will start at 8 p.m., is for the purpose of receiving reports and statements required to be placed before the Annual Meeting, electing Directors and Committee Chairs, appointing someone to review the financial records and prepare a report for the Society, and for the transaction of such other matters as may properly be brought before the meeting.
In addition to receiving reports and financial statements for the period that ended Oct. 31, 2022, there will be greetings from the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) Provincial Director, Jentje Steenbeek, and OAAS awards will be presented.
All are welcome to attend!
GIRL GUIDE COOKIES
Sadly, the weather didn’t cooperate for the sale of Chocolatey Mint Girl Guide cookies on Saturday morning during the Christmas in Bayfield celebrations so the membership still has a few boxes to sell.
A limited number of cookies are also now available at Schaefer’s Ladies Wear and Lingerie at 162 Courthouse Square in Goderich.
The cookies are selling for $5 a box.
Anyone who would like to ensure they get a box or two before the campaign ends is invited to contact Melody Falconer-Pounder at l 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.
EVENING OF WINE AND SPIRITS
Olio Too Restaurant, in Bayfield is hosting an “Evening of Wine and Spirits!” on Nov. 26 at the Bayfield Town Hall.
This interactive psychic show will feature a trio of internationally acclaimed performance psychics – Wendyanna, Sue and Connie.
Wendyanna is a highly sought after Television and Radio Psychic who has provided psychic readings to tens of thousands of people over her 40 year career.
Sue is a Psychic Trance Channel who brings forth a non-physical entity group known as The United Souls of Heaven and Earth ( The “US”). A wise and loving group with a wonderful sense of humor, the audience will love their dynamic energy and love for the audience.
Connie is a Psychic and Medium who specializes in bringing forth messages from departed loved ones to members of the audience.
Tickets are available now for $100 per person. The tickets include one beverage and food provided by Olio Too. Cocktails will also be available for purchase.
The event will run from 7-10:30 p.m. with a refreshment break at 8:30 p.m. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.
Attendees are invited to write down and bring one specific question that they may wish to have answered. The psychics will limit the time of each individual question to allow for more audience questions to be covered during the show. The messages will be loving, supportive and clear.
In addition the trio will be doing individual readings the following week, Nov. 28-30, in Olio Too’s yurt, 19B Bayfield Main Street North.
For further information please email thepeaceroom@hotmail.com.
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 world leaders are being asked to adopt a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty at COP 27 in Egypt this year? The World Health Organization, the Vatican, the European Parliament, two small island states: Vanuatu and Tuvalu, 70 cities and sub-national governments, 101 Nobel Prize winners, 3,000 scientists and academics, and 582,217 individuals have already endorsed this treaty.
The proposed Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is an international agreement that would end all new exploration and production of fossil fuels, phase out existing production of fossil fuels to reach the 1.5 C global climate target and offer a just transition to renewable energy for all workers. According to a recent report in the journal, “Nature”, almost 60 per cent of oil and methane gas and 90 per cent of coal has to stay in the ground to meet the 1.5 C climate target.
What you can do:
- Write to your representatives at all levels of government. Let them know you are concerned about climate change and ask what actions they are taking.
- Talk to everyone you know about climate change – get the conversation going!
- Read everything you can, including the report in: Nature
- Volunteer for environmental organizations and parks, including: Friends of the Pinery, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, Blue Bayfield, Green Goderich, Eco Exeter, Bayfield River Valley Trail Association, just to name a few, and find out how you can help at the local level.
SOUTH HURON COMMUNITY CHOIRS
The South Huron Community Choirs are very excited to be back together doing what they enjoy doing and that is singing! They are looking forward to presenting a Christmas Community Concert “Handel’s Messiah and Olde Tyme Christmas” on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at Exeter United Church.
The concert will commence at 7 p.m. under the direction of Richard Heinzle and accompanied by Lori Danylchuk.
Advance tickets are $25 or $30 at the door. They can be purchased at the Exeter United Church, Exeter Animal Hospital, South Huron Welcome Centre, Exeter; Pinedale Motor Inn, Grand Bend; or by calling Ruth Petersen at 519 235-1778.
Exeter United Church is located at 42 James Street.
HORSES ABOUT TOWN

Humes Horse & Carriage Rides of Watford, On added to the holiday magic providing visitors with rides about town during Christmas in Bayfield weekend. (Photo by Wendy Vasco)
RESTORATION OF TRIEBNER TRACT BEGINS
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) staff have planted 8,000 trees and have begun enhancing the wetlands at Triebner Tract, located west of Hwy 4, northwest of Exeter (between Hensall and Exeter).
Triebner Tract is conservation land owned by ABCA for protection of water, soil, habitat, and passive recreation. The restoration project has a first phase in 2022 and a second phase in 2023. The project includes tree planting in 2022 and 2023 and construction of wetlands on the remaining agricultural lands of the property. The ABCA will retire close to 30 acres of marginal farmland and convert it to natural uses to improve forest and wetland conditions in the area.
“Through the partnership of dedicated groups, and the generosity of the former owner, the late Stuart Alexander Triebner and family, we were able to acquire this land, known as the Triebner Tract, in 2009,” said Nathan Schoelier, ABCA Stewardship and Lands manager. “Now, it is also exciting to see partners come together, to build upon that legacy, and further protect this ecologically significant area. I would like to thank the funding partners who are making this project possible for the benefit of water, soil, and habitat for all living things.”
Trees and wetlands offer many benefits to human and ecosystem health, natural infrastructure, and water quality. Forest and wetland cover is limited in areas throughout the watershed. The Triebner Tract project will contribute towards both forest and wetland cover, providing local and downstream water quality benefits. To learn more about forest and wetland cover across Ausable Bayfield watersheds, check out: Watershed Report Cards.

Eco Exeter students, from South Huron District High School, planted 500 plants and shrubs around some newly constructed wetlands at Triebner Tract in November as part of the first phase of the Triebner Tract Forest and Wetland Restoration Project. (Submitted photo)
The Triebner Tract restoration project complements tree planting, wetland restoration, and other projects that private landowners complete each year, working to improve the overall health of the watershed. For anyone who is interested in completing projects on their own property, ABCA staff are happy to assist with project implementation and applying for funding support.
The Triebner Tract Forest and Wetland Restoration Project will also increase local recreation opportunities. Conservation lands, owned by ABCA, are open to passive public recreation, including hiking, snowshoeing and birdwatching. Hunting is also permitted at some properties through a permitting system.
Part of Triebner Tract is located in the Hay Swamp Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW). The Triebner Tract Forest and Wetland Restoration Project in 2022 is beside the PSW. Triebner Tract is located in the former Hay Township in the Municipality of Bluewater.
This project was undertaken with the financial support of the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund, a Government of Canada’s Department of Environment and Climate Change program in partnership with Conservation Ontario. This project has also received funding support from the Government of Ontario.
The tree planting at Triebner Tract is possible thanks to funding support from Tree Canada and thanks to contributions from Eco Exeter and Huron County Clean Water Project and a memorial donation, in memory of Terry Blok, to Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF).
The wetland enhancement at Triebner Tract is thanks to support from Ducks Unlimited Canada. ABCF is also a contributor to this forest and wetland project.
SEAFORTH HOSPITAL RECEIVES FUNDS FOR ULTRASOUND UNIT

On Nov. 14, a cheque presentation was held at Seaforth Community Hospital where Scotia Wealth Management donated $6,000 to the Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation (SCHF) toward the purchase of an Ultrasound unit. Attending the presentation were l-r: Sheila Morton, Vice chair SCHF; Ron Lavoie, chair SCHF; Dick Burgess, SCHF Board member; Michele Tyndall, manager Inpatient Unit and Emergency Department; Director Patient Care and Interim Chief Nursing Executive, Jennifer Rascao; and Alexander Cardno, Wealth advisor at Scotia Wealth Management. (Submitted photo)
The Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation (SCHF) is very grateful to receive a donation in the amount of $6,000 from Scotia Wealth Management’s Share the Wealth campaign.
This was made possible by Alexander Cardno who grew up in Seaforth and was a member of the SCHF Board from 2020 to 2021. In the summer of 2022, Cardno, a Wealth Advisor at Scotia Wealth Management, graciously nominated the SCHF as a charity worthy of recognition and support based on the benefit the Foundation brings to the Seaforth Community Hospital and community.
“We are so honored that Alexander nominated the Foundation for this award,” said Ron Lavoie, SCHF chair. “This donation will enhance the Seaforth community by assisting the Foundation’s goal of fundraising for a new Ultrasound unit. As we know ultrasound plays an essential role in helping healthcare professionals diagnose and determine treatment for a variety of conditions and diseases.”
On behalf of the patients and team members at the Seaforth Community Hospital, the Foundation would like to thank Cardno for the nomination, Scotia McLeod for their generosity and the community for their continued support.
“If we all give a little…we all get a lot!”
PUBLIC HEALTH
HPPH is changing how it displays local COVID-19 information for Huron-Perth. Up until this point, they have been updating their own dashboards on COVID-19 testing, cases and vaccination; now, similar weekly information for Huron Perth region is also available through Public Health Ontario’s: COVID-19 and Influenza Activity dashboard.
While HPPH prepares a new way to display local information on respiratory illness that will be the most helpful to residents, the previous Tableau dashboards will not be updated.
Public Health Ontario’s dashboard includes a wide range of COVID-19 data about Huron Perth, including case counts by hospitalizations and deaths, vaccine uptake by age, sex and public health unit, outbreaks, and more.
SOUNDS OF THE SEASON
“Sounds of the Season”, featuring Goderich Laketown Band, Mackay Choristers and special guests “thatotherchoir”, will be performed at Lakeshore United Church in Goderich on Sunday, Dec. 4.
The musical entertainment will begin at 3 p.m. Donations are appreciated with $20 being the suggested amount. Those who wish to mask are welcome to do so but it is not required.
Lakeshore United Church is located at 56 North Street.
CPH AUXILIARY
The Auxiliary of Clinton Public Hospital (CPH) is once again lighting the Gift of Lights tree. The tree will be lit on Friday, Nov. 25 radiating its lights throughout the holiday season. Organizers note that it has always been a sincere joy to celebrate the lighting of the lights on the hospital’s special tree. This tree lights the area across the road from the front entrance to CPH.
“The lights have been lit up honoring the many memories of individuals and families that have been a part of our community and our hospital for a number of years,” said Shirley Carter, chair of Gift of Light Committee for the CPH Auxiliary
She added that the donations that have been made over the past years have been in many ways a gift as they have assisted in the purchases of several new items and equipment that has been needed and used at CPH.
“Although we will not be holding the gathering to celebrate the lighting of the lights, we will be lighting up the tree and we would really appreciate your continuing support. Those memories and gifts from past years can continue to shine and honor the lives of special people to us during this celebratory season,” said Carter.
All are encouraged to drive up Shipley Street, past CPH and see the glow from the shining lights as a happy reminder of how many people have helped.
Anyone who would like to make a donation to the Gift of Lights for 2022 in memory of someone or as gifts to special people in their lives is invited to do so. Any donation of $20 or more will be given a tax receipt. Cheques can be mailed to: Gift of Lights – CPH Auxiliary, 98 Shipley St., Clinton, ON, N0M 1L0. Or alternatively tickets can be purchased from Auxiliary members or at the hospital Gift Shop.
BLYTH FESTIVAL

Bayfield Artist, Anne Laviolette, has captured the activity during packing up time at the Goderich Saturday Market in this 10 X 10 oil on canvas entitled, “Sun Shower. It is just one of 118 pieces of art by regional talents available to bid on at the Blyth Festival Online Art Auction. (Photo courtesy event website)
The Blyth Festival’s Second Online Art Auction, “10 X 10 in 2022” went live on the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 1.
There are 118 pieces of original work available to be bid on all created in a 10 X 10 format. Talented regional artists are showcased as well as some up and coming artists as the auction features pieces by 20 secondary school students whose work has been guided by their Art teacher Julie Gillam of Central Huron Secondary School in Clinton.
To view all the art up for auction visit: Auction Catalog. Those who wish to place a bid on a piece are asked to register by visiting here. It is quick and easy and there is no obligation to buy nor will there be a request for a credit card number. The auction will close Dec. 1st at noon.
Funds raised will help support the work of the Blyth Festival. For more information regarding this event check out the further details or email: jlamb@blythfestival.com.
GIVING TUESDAY
Giving Tuesday is celebrating ten years of work to engage people in giving to charity on a special day. This day of giving takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 29.
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) is asking people for their support, for community conservation projects, on Giving Tuesday. They may donate to support all the programs of the Conservation Foundation or they may specify which program they want to support.
The Chair ABCF is Dave Frayne. He encourages people to donate to community betterment.
“It is your generosity that makes it possible to enhance trails and natural areas in our community and to support conservation education and other programs for young people and people of all ages,” he said.
To donate to ABCF for Giving Tuesday, visit the Conservation Foundation’s Giving Tuesday web page.
There is a private message box for donations so that individuals can type into the text field there to let the Foundation know which program they want to support. Examples of community enhancement projects include habitat for turtles, conservation education, trails, Student Environmental Award, Junior Conservationist job opportunity program, tree planting through Carbon Footprints to Forests, wetlands, habitat for pollinators; conservation areas, or another conservation program of their choice.
To learn more about community projects of the Conservation Foundation, or how to support their work with a donation, visit this web page: ABC Foundation. Also, feel free to contact the Conservation Foundation by email at info@abca.ca or by phone at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday in late November are popular days for shopping and to buy things. As those retail mega-days wind down, the Conservation Foundation asks people to consider a different kind of day – Giving Tuesday. Giving Tuesday is not a day to buy things but a day to give a gift of a different kind, a gift to nature and to the community.
Giving Tuesday is a global movement, for giving and volunteering, that takes place each year after Black Friday. Black Friday is a day devoted to supporting the economy. Giving Tuesday (#GivingTuesdayCa) is a day devoted to supporting the community. To learn more about Giving Tuesday, visit the Giving Tuesday Canada website.
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.
REMEMBER THIS
THE YOUNG CANUCKSTORIANS PROJECT
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FEATURING MARGARET AND WILLIAM DICKSON
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 final instalment of a seven part series on “The Young Canuckstorians Project” in Remember This. The Gala Premiere of these short films will take place in the Huron County Museum theatre this Saturday, Nov. 26 starting at 2 p.m. This week we share the story of the Goderich Gaol Matron Margaret Dickson and her husband Gaoler William Dickson as told by Bayfield Guiding members Jocelyn and Kayla.
CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD
WARMTH OF THE SEASON SHINES THROUGH DESPITE EARLY WINTER CHILL
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER, JOHN POUNDER AND JACK PAL.
What a great weekend it was for the 31st Annual Christmas in Bayfield!
Despite the chilly weather, this beautiful village was flooded with guests from near and far who enjoyed so many amazing sights and sounds. They visited artisans and enjoyed professional face painting, live wood carving and musical entertainment, carriage rides, and of course amazing and unique shops, restaurants, bakeries and bars.
“We kicked off Friday with the launch of our Winter Wonderland Tree Lighting experience in Clan Gregor Square which hosted approximately 1,000 people,” said Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) Secretary-Treasurer Terri Louch. “It was a truly amazing experience. The magic will remain for most of the winter so people can come and experience it for themselves.”
On Saturday, Nov. 19, the Santa Claus parade started with a surprise Flash Mob Line Dance followed by an incredible assortment of floats, bands, animals and fun.
“Sunday was the perfect day for our hallmark carriage experience. It definitely was a weekend to be remembered,” said Louch. “Thanks again to all of you who donated to make this possible and to all of you who joined us to enjoy the festivities and spend some time.”
Louch would like to invite everyone to please visit the Bayfield Ontario Facebook page for some amazing Christmas in Bayfield photos and videos, of performers, the Winter Wonderland in Clan Gregor Square, the parade and carriage rides.
To capture all the beautiful sights of “2022 Christmas in Bayfield” the BACC would love to have people share photos on their website and social media.
To share, people are asked to submit the best high-resolution photo of their adventures during Christmas in Bayfield by emailing their pictures to socialmediabacc@gmail.com. All photos must be submitted by Dec. 1st and be taken by the person sharing the images. These pictures must be from Christmas in Bayfield – Nov. 18-20, 2022.
Photos will be displayed on the BACC website and social media with a photo credit if the photographer’s name is submitted.
For more information on this promotion, visit: Share Your Photos.
Organizers would like to recognize the wonderful entertainment provided by Jason and the Nomads, the Bayfield Ukulele Society, Dancleland, SKSHM, Colin Brown and the Clinton Line Dancers. All contributed to making the weekend so much fun!
The Municipality of Bluewater, Lavis Construction, Art’s Landscaping, Clark Multitrade and Ontario Hydro are to be commended for the incredible amount of work they completed to ensure the village was prepared and safe for all of the visitors.
“We will never be able to thank all of you enough,” said Louch. “Finally, we would be remiss if we did not mention that the weekend would not have been nearly as successful without our incredible volunteers.”
The Christmas in Bayfield Committee is grateful for the efforts of: Amy Saunders, Diane Snell, Ian Gordon, Ian Matthew, Jayne Dietrich, Judy Stephenson, Leanne Kavanagh, Mary Couturier, Mary Hurley, Mike DeCorte, Rockn Rev. Rhonda, Roland Archer, Shoreline Classics: Shawn Henry, Teresa McCann, Tom Elgersma, Wendy Vasco and members of the Bayfield Lions Club.
“What an amazing group of people whose work was absolutely invaluable. We can hardly wait to get started on next year!” concluded Louch.
Editor’s Note: We hope our readers will enjoy these photographic highlights from the village’s Santa Claus Parade.
For a closer look at these images click on any one to open a pop up gallery.
SUBMISSIONS

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Melody Falconer-Pounder
This just in! The Bayfield Optimist Club has received word that Santa Claus has time in his schedule to come down from the North Pole to visit the village on the morning of Sunday, Dec. 11. He is looking forward to partaking in a breakfast with the young and young at heart!
Yes, Breakfast with Santa is returning after a two year hiatus and a few things have changed – like the venue and the times. The Albion Hotel will host from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Instead of a buffet, the meals will be plated and the menu will consist of pancakes, sausage, potatoes, eggs, toast and a beverage. The meal will cost $10 for adults and $5 for children.
But what is staying the same for this fifteenth breakfast is the chance to make some fun family memories! – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.