The Bayfield BreezeIssue 713 Week 11 Vol 14
March 8, 2023
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PANCAKE BRUNCH AND SCHILBE SUGAR BUSH TOUR RETURNS
Last held in 2019, the Pancake ‘N Sausage Brunch and Schilbe Sugar Bush Tour will take place on Saturday, Apr. 1st. This image taken at the 2018 event shows folks preparing to go on a tractor ride to the Sugar Bush. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
On Saturday, Apr. 1st, no fooling, it will be pancake breakfast time!
Volunteers, with the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) and Trinity St. James Anglican Church, are joining together to host the 11th Pancake ‘N Sausage Brunch and Schilbe Sugar Bush Tour from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pine Lake Campground.
On the menu for brunch will be genuine Maple syrup poured over hot pancakes and sausage accompanied by coffee, tea and juice.
For those who can’t get enough of the sweet stuff Rick and Rusty Schilbe’s Maple Syrup will be available for purchase. Folks will also be able to purchase a box or two of Classic Girl Guide Cookies as members of Bayfield Guiding will be in attendance as well.
Before or after partaking in the brunch served in the Campground’s Recreation Hall, people can hop on a wagon for a short tractor ride from the campground through Rick and Rusty Schilbe’s Sugar Bush to the shanty. Once at their destination they will see first hand how Maple Syrup is produced.
Tickets will be sold at the door: $12 for adults, $6 for children under 12; and preschoolers free. All proceeds will be shared between BAFB and Trinity St James. Come and join in this celebration of community, springtime and food security.
Pine Lake Campground is located at 77794 Orchard Line, Bayfield.
SISTERS HARMONIES TO FILL TOWN HALL
Tickets are available now for the Ennis Sisters who will be performing at the Bayfield Town Hall on May 7. (Photo by David Howells)
For over 25 years, the Ennis Sisters, Maureen, Karen and Teresa, have been connecting to audiences across the world with a musical style flavored by Celtic and traditional Newfoundland influences.
Their most recent album, “On We Go”, is a collection of original songs produced by Alan Doyle and recorded in scenic Quidi Vidi Village, NL.
Known for their captivating sibling harmonies and powerful, often humorous, storytelling, their music offers a broad mix of original songs as well as uniquely interpreted tunes and ballads.
And they are returning to the Bayfield Town Hall on Sunday, May 7! The hall doors will open at 7 p.m. with the Ennis Sisters taking the stage at 7:30 p.m. There will be a cash bar.
Tickets are $50 and are currently available to purchase online with no extra charges at www.bayfieldtownhall.com. Those who purchase tickets should note that the email they receive as confirmation is their ticket. There will be a volunteer at the door with a list of ticket holders. All that is needed is the ticket number at the door for entry.
The Bayfield Town Hall is located in the village at 11 The Square.
FILM CIRCUIT MOVIES COMING TO VILLAGE
The Bayfield Indie Film Series will soon be making its debut!
“You know what Bayfield needs? It needs cool movies!”
So said a small group of Bayfield residents last summer and they decided to go for it. These residents thought there must be others like themselves who wanted to see independent Canadian and international films in Bayfield, so Bayfield Indie Film Series, a not-for-profit, community-spirited group was born! They talked to Film Circuit, the national film outreach program for the Toronto International Film Festival group (TIFF), and decided to become a part of the Film Circuit community.
Founded in 1989, Film Circuit has partnered with grassroots communities all across Canada to bring the best of Canadian and world cinema across the country. Film Circuit offers filmgoers an opportunity to see films that may not otherwise be available in their region.
The Bayfield Indie Film Series will be debuting three films at the Bayfield Town Hall all on Wednesdays: “Aftersun”, Apr. 12; “Decision to Leave”, May 10; and “Trigger Point”, June 7. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and showtime will be 7 p.m. With community at the heart of this venture, organizers plan to include some special additional features people won’t want to miss.
Film enthusiasts can purchase Spring Season Passes at The Village Bookshop, located at 24 Main Street North, for just $30, or tickets will be available to purchase at the door, on the night of the film, for $12 each. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase, as well.
Bayfield Indie Film Series is excited and proud to begin this new venture and look forward to seeing community members at the films!
For regular updates, follow @bayfieldindiefilmseries on Instagram and FaceBook. For any additional information, please email bayfieldfilms@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Town Hall is located at 11 The Square in the village.
COUNTDOWN NOW ON FOR BAYFIELD READS
The countdown is now on for Bayfield Reads! This tradition corresponds with CBC’s Canada Reads. Just as they will do on the National level, Bayfield will choose their winner for this annual event determining the results with the help of a slate of local defenders.
And for the first time since prior to the pandemic, Bayfield Reads will be live and in person. People are invited to attend the event to be held at the Bayfield Town Hall on Sunday, March 26 starting at 2 p.m.
Those who attend will be able to vote on the popular “People’s Choice Award” but the panel of local Judges including Abby Armstrong, Rachael Rishworth and Ralph Blasting will have the last word.
This year’s defenders are: Dave MacLaren, Judy Whittaker, Tina Bax, Kristin Strang and Tyler Hessel. In the weeks leading up to Bayfield Reads, these defenders and the books they are defending will be profiled in the Bayfield Breeze. This week Kristen Strang is the featured defender.
“Mexican Gothic” written by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is the book that Strang will be defending. Strang is an inquisitive person who has a deep and persistent desire to learn. She is passionate about travel and meeting and working with people from different cultures. She has found that one of the most significant benefits of reading is increasing empathy and developing understanding. When enthralled in a story, Strang often wonders how she would have lived during various times and circumstances. She has a home in Bayfield and works at The Village Bookshop.
Mexican Gothic is a gothic horror novel set in 1950s Mexico. It tells the story of a young woman named Noemí who is called by her cousin to save her from doom in her countryside home, the mysterious and alluring High Place. Noemí doesn’t know much about the house, the region or her cousin’s mysterious new husband, but she’s determined to do whatever it takes to solve this mystery and save her cousin.
This novel, as well as the other four Canada Reads Books for 2023, are available for purchase at The Village Bookshop located at 24 Main Street North in the village or online at villagebookshop.ca.
Tickets to Bayfield Reads will be $5 at the door and refreshments are included.
FRESH WATER CRISIS TOPIC OF FINAL VIRTUAL SATURDAYS AT THE LIBRARY SERIES
The Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) and Huron County Library are pleased to co-sponsor the final speaker event in the 2023 Virtual Saturdays at the Library Speaker Series.
All are welcome to join the ZOOM meeting on Saturday, March 25 at 10:30 a.m.
The topic will be: “The Fresh Water Crisis – Thinking Globally, Acting Locally” with guest speakers from Blue Bayfield: Ray Letheren, retired teacher, Bayfield resident, and co-founder of Blue Bayfield; and Betty Durst, retired nurse, health sciences teacher, community health promoter, and Blue Bayfield volunteer.
The health of citizens throughout the world is threatened by the diminishing access to clean water for consumption and sanitation. As an important resource, water is becoming increasingly precious and valuable. The water crisis is not restricted to developing countries; it also impacts the health of the 45 million people who are dependent on the Great Lakes for clean water. The Great Lakes represent the largest body of freshwater lakes on earth (by area) and contain 21 percent of the earth’s surface freshwater (by volume).
Participants will learn about Blue Bayfield’s recent initiatives to raise awareness about the global water crisis and the pressing need to protect and conserve the life-sustaining water resources closer to home – the Great Lakes.
Anyone wishing to participate in the ZOOM meeting is asked to pre-register by clicking on the link provided on the FOBL website: www.FOBL.ca
SPECIES AT RISK THEME OF NEXT HIKE
On Saturday, March 4th, International Women’s Day was celebrated with a snowy hike on the Woodland Trail. Throughout the hike, the work of inspiring Indigenous women was highlighted. Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) members thank all who participated.
The BRVTA invites all to join in their next hike on Saturday, March 18 at 10 a.m. This will be a “Species at Risk” hike at the Morrison trail in Exeter. Denise Iszczuk, the conservation educator from the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) will be leading the hike as participants learn about species at risk and actions that can be taken to protect these species. Hikers are asked to park and meet at the Pavilion at 71042 Morrison Line, Exeter. Those interested in carpooling to Exeter (as driver or rider) are asked to meet at the Clan Gregor Square Gazebo in Bayfield at 9:15 a.m.
BRVTA volunteers will be assisting Huron Hospice with the Second Annual Candlelight Memorial Walk on the Taylor Trail in Varna on Saturday, Apr. 1st. In case of inclement weather, the event will take place on Sunday, Apr. 2nd. For more information see the next article below. All are welcome but people are asked to please leave their canine friends at home for this event.
To celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, Apr. 22, the BRVTA is hosting their Ninth Annual Earth Day Hike and Village Cleanup. The theme of the hike is “What is a Watershed?” with special guest Michele Martin, an environmental consultant from Kitchener, ON. Hikers are asked to meet at the gazebo in Clan Gregor Square at 9 a.m. The Village Cleanup will begin at 10:30 a.m. following the hike. The clean up will also be organized from the gazebo. Local groups, businesses and individuals are invited to check in and choose a route from the Village map. The Bayfield Trails Team will provide garbage bags. Participants will then go for a walk in their assigned area picking up litter. Bags can be returned to the Square for disposal. Those who take part are asked to please wear bright colored clothing and bring gloves!
BRVTA hikes are free and open to the public without pre-registration. The schedule is subject to change, so always check for updates in the Bayfield Breeze, on the BRVTA Facebook page and the Municipality of Bluewater events calendar, or contact hike coordinator Ralph Blasting by calling 519 525-3205 or emailing rjblasting@gmail.com.
CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL WALK WILL TAKE PLACE AT BEGINNING OF APRIL
Weather permitting on Apr. 1 along the Taylor Trail in Varna, volunteers will place hundreds of candle-lit lanterns, lighting the pine forest path for the Second Annual Candlelight Memorial Walk. (Submitted photo)
Members of the community are encouraged to keep the evening of Saturday, Apr. 1 open on their calendars so they might participate in the Second Annual Candlelight Memorial Walk on the Taylor Trail in Varna.
This event is being organized by volunteers from Huron Hospice and the Bayfield River Valley Trails Association (BRVTA) to raise funds for the hospice. The walk will begin at 7 p.m. In case of inclement weather, the event will be postponed until Apr. 2nd.
All along the Taylor Trail, volunteers from the BRVTA and Huron Hospice will have placed hundreds of candle-lit lanterns, lighting the pine forest path. This will create an enchanted setting, providing a thoughtful venue for participants to reflect on memories of loved ones during this peaceful 1 km self-guided walk.
Huron Hospice opened their residence in 2018, providing care to approximately 60 residents yearly, at no cost to the residents or their families. Unlike hospitals, hospices in Ontario receive only partial funding for operating expenses, creating a shortfall of approximately $1,000 a day. Events like this one will assist in raising the additional funds.
Participants can make a tax-deductible donation to light a candle in memory of a loved one. Memorial names will be read during the Dedication Ceremony at 8 p.m., while walkers warm up with a cup of hot chocolate.
For more information or to donate, visit Huron Hospice events or call Roger Mather at 905 630-3571.
FERAL CAT LEARNING BENEFIT OF CREATURE COMFORTS
Chip (Submitted photo)
BFF has so many wonderful cats and kittens looking for their forever families right now.
Chip is the Adopt a BFF cat of the week.
He doesn’t realize it yet but his life is about to get a whole lot better!
Chip was found going between several homes looking for food. Originally it was thought that Chip might be an expecting female. During a bout of very cold weather Chip developed a limp and as a result the feline was trapped by some concerned people and brought to the Rescue.
“It turns out Chip is a boy and likely about two years old,” said Deb Penhale, representing the Rescue. “Presently he isn’t the happiest but he has allowed some pets to take place and is very accepting of treats. He enjoys being nice and warm, but like many newcomers, he seems to enjoy the comfort of his litter pan (as Chip’s photo demonstrates) over a soft bed. They are not used to having such comforts offered to them and this can take some getting used to.”
Volunteers will be working with Chip to socialize him and he will be going for his shots and neuter as soon as an appointment can be secured.
“We look forward to working with him and keeping readers updated as to his progress. We are always happy to share the journey from feral to fabulous!” concluded Penhale.
To learn more about adopting Chip please contact BFF via email at bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com. The adoption fee is now $200. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Not able to adopt but still want to help? Donations are always gratefully accepted and can be e-transferred to the email above.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) Annual Meeting will be held on Apr. 19 and this year it will be a little different!
Business owners are invited to gather at 4 p.m. at Oilo for free appetizers, to listen to a special guest provide an update on local happenings and to learn ways to get involved in helping local business with a brief presentation by BACC Marketing Manager Wendy Vasco.
After the meeting there will be time to relax and enjoy some networking, speak to the BACC team to discuss how they are working to support businesses with both staffing shortages and housing issues as well as chat with other business owners all while enjoying $5 beer or wine.
All documents will be sent to BACC members attending in advance of the meeting in order that they may be reviewed. Voting on issues will be by members only, but all business owners are welcome to attend.
Tickets are free but space is limited so people are encouraged to reserve as soon as possible by visiting: BACC Happy Hour Tickets.
Looking to take advantage of all the benefits of being a Chamber Member? Reach out to villageofbayfield@gmail.com or use the online form: Join the Chamber — Village of Bayfield to register today. The BACC’s new fiscal year starts Apr. 1st so this is the perfect time to sign up!
The BACC Marketing Committee would love to hear ideas on how to grow visitors to the area from current Chamber members. Members are invited to reach out to the BACC social media manager at socialmediabacc@gmail.com to provide input or to join the committee.
Olio is located at 19b Main Street North in the village.
WESTERN HURON COUNTY ALUMNI
The Dean of Education at Western University is putting the call out to all UWO alum in hopes of starting a Western University Huron County Alumni Chapter. In addition to her full-time position as Dean, Bayfield resident, Donna Kotsopoulos, is herself a UWO alum (M.Ed.’04, Ph.D.’07).
“Last year, I had the opportunity to attend the Elgin County Alumni Chapter event, this group of alumni host events to raise funds for Western scholarships for Elgin County students,” said Kotsopoulos. “I wonder if there is interest in starting a similar group for Huron County?”
Anyone who may have an interest in establishing such a group is invited to fill out this form: Expression of Interest Huron County Alumni Chapter.
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) is looking to engage those new to the community, those who have wanted to support the BAS and the Bayfield Community Fair, those who believe in organizations that promote agriculture and food, and those who are interested in supporting a local longstanding organization.
The BAS offers anyone interested the opportunity to:
- Volunteer in a wide range of activities at the Fair
- Draw on strengths and support a good cause
- Grow leadership skills in a supportive environment
- Meet new people
- Share new ideas
Some committees require less than five hours a year of time, some require organizational skills, and some activities require hands-on workers.
The main focus of the BAS is the Bayfield Community Fair – a three-day festival that brings rural and urban residents together through competitions, entertainment, and rural displays of animals and equipment. The Bayfield Fair is always held on the third weekend in August. This year’s Fair will take place on Aug. 18-20.
It has been said that it takes a village to make the Bayfield Fair happen each year, and it’s never too early to start recruiting volunteers to help with all aspects of organizing the Fair.
Specific areas of the Bayfield Fair that the BAS currently needs volunteers for include woodworking, farm products, youth section, fundraising letter writing, flowers, parade, gate coordination, food booth, setting up and taking things down after the Fair, and wreath making in the fall.
The response from the community and beyond in 2022 brought volunteers, both young people and those more seasoned, who worked together to get the fairgrounds ready and help put on last year’s Fair. Anyone who can spare a few hours or more to help out with the 2023 Bayfield Fair is kindly asked to email info@bayfieldfair.ca.
FOOD BANK
Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) will be holding their Annual General Meeting (AGM) over ZOOM on March 29.
The AGM will begin at 1:30 p.m. and anyone who would like to attend should email the address provided below for a ZOOM link.
Volunteers with BAFB would like to invite people to add canned tomatoes and pasta sauce to their grocery shopping lists in the coming weeks if they wish to donate as these two items are low in stock on the BAFB shelves.
BAFB now has a 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.
ANGLICAN CHURCH
Trinity St. James Anglican Church hosts two services a week that members of the community are most welcome to attend. Services are held on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Sundays at 11 a.m. The next Men’s Breakfast at Trinity St. James will be held on Saturday, March 25 and men in the community are invited to attend. Coffee will be served at 9 a.m. with breakfast following at about 9:30 a.m. This is a pay what you are able event. To ensure enough food is available anyone planning to attend is asked to please email John Pounder at bvi@tcc.on.ca prior to March 23.
Trinity St. James Anglican church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
POET’S CORNER
Anyone with a flair for, or an interest in, poetry will be excited to learn about “Bayfield Poet’s Corner” to be held at the Bayfield Public Library on March 9.
David A. Bell, of Bayfield, and author of “In the Gardens of our Mind” will host the event that will run for one hour starting at 6 p.m.
All are welcome and encouraged to bring both their writings and a friend!
LEGO CLUB
Young Lego enthusiasts and their adults are invited to the first meeting of the Bayfield Lego Club on March 18. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Families with an interest in Lego design and creativity are invited to come and further “their love for the brick” at the inaugural meeting of the Bayfield Lego Club on Saturday, March 18.
The club’s first session will take place from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Parish Hall at Trinity St James Anglican Church and will be sponsored by the Optimist Club of Bayfield.
Bayfield Lego Club is open to all children ages four and up accompanied by an adult. Bricks will be provided for use at the meetings and participants will be encouraged to build a creation based on a monthly theme.
For more information please email Melody Falconer-Pounder at melody.pounder@gmail.com.
Trinity St James Anglican Church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
OPTIMIST CLUB
People often ask if they can add an engraved brick to the path around the Splash Pad in Clan Gregor Square and members of the Optimist Club of Bayfield are pleased to announce that there is further opportunity to have a name added to the circle in 2023.
The engraved pavers in Clan Gregor Square are a reminder of how great area residents and visitors are when it comes to supporting such projects as the Playground and the Splash Pad.
“In Memoriam” stones for loved ones as well as “just because” stones can be ordered with the work being done on site later in 2022 using the same two brick sizes that are already installed around the Splash Pad. The cost of these engraved bricks will be medium, $90; and large, $120. The plan is to have the bricks engraved in late May just prior to opening the Splash Pad.
Anyone with an interest in adding a brick can contact Mike Dixon via email at mikedixon@tcc.on.ca or by calling 519 955-5254 for further information.
EARLY YEARS
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.
The Playgroup offers indoor, outdoor and virtual program options as well as telephone and email support for parents and caregivers. In addition to the program being welcoming, fun and interactive, they provide parents with ideas of activities to do at home to enhance their child’s development.
Pre-registration is recommended by emailing earlyon@huroncounty.ca or calling 519 482-8505. To learn more visit www.keyon.ca or follow them on Instagram and Facebook at @HuronEarlyON.
YOUTH READING CHALLENGE
Calling all Bayfield area tweens and teens! The Bayfield Public Library (Bayfield Branch) is challenging youth ages 12 to 18 to read at least one book a month from January to June 2023 for a chance to win some amazing prizes. Are you up for the challenge?
For every book a youth reads, their name will be entered to win one of the prizes listed below. Draws will be made at the end of the program. The Bayfield Branch has a tracking form which can be picked up from the branch during regular hours, or can be completed by downloading a form at: Bayfield Teen Reading Challenge Form.
Looking for ideas of what to read? Explore the Huron County Library’s online catalogue or speak with branch staff who are eager to offer reading recommendations.
Prizes for the Bayfield Branch reading challenge include, but are not limited to: $250 gift card from Forever Furniture; $25 gift card from The Village Bookshop; four, $25 gift cards to The Village Bookshop from Pioneer Park; four, Kids Kraft Workshop gift cards from Crichet Handmade Designs; a selection of graphic novels from Friends of Bayfield Library; selection of gift cards from the Bayfield Optimist Club; Hyacinth Bulb kit from Huron Ridge Greenhouses; Sherpa blanket from the Little Inn of Bayfield; selection of books from the Bayfield Agricultural Society;
handmade products from the Bayfield Lavender Farm and Great Lakes Glory; Bayfield booklets from the Bayfield Historical Society; and swag from the Virtual High School & Bruce Power.
All completed tracking forms must be returned to the Bayfield Branch or emailed to bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca by the contest deadline of Wednesday, June 28.
COFFEE & CHAT
The Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) extend a warm welcome to all to attend their “Coffee & Chat” program in the Bayfield Public Library Meeting Room. The “Coffee & Chat” group meets every Tuesday until the end of March.
Participants can enjoy a hot cup of coffee while engaging in conversation with other community members. The conversation is neutral and inclusive with an endless list of interesting topics for discussion.
The session runs from 2-3:30 p.m..
This is a great way for newcomers to meet new people, learn about the village, and share ideas. Seasoned villagers are also very welcome. There is no need to register for this program. Just show up and be prepared for some lively discussion!
IN MEMORIAM
Melisse T. Kurtz (Submitted photo)
The community will no doubt be saddened to learn of the death of a former village resident.
Melisse T. Kurtz, 96, formerly of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania (PA), entered into rest on Thursday, Feb. 23, at Heather Court Assisted Living, Northumberland, PA.
She was born July 15, 1926, in Royal Oak, Michigan, a daughter of the late Howard and Mary (Underwood) Truitt. On Sept. 6, 1947, she married Rev. Gordon F. Kurtz, who preceded her in death Sept. 8, 2012.
Surviving are three sons and daughters-in-law, Gordon “Ted” and Sandra Kurtz of Veneta, Oregon; James “Jim” Kurtz of Port Orange, Florida; and John Kurtz and Megan Bishop of Lewisburg, PA; two daughters and one son-in-law, Margaret “Peg” and Richard Carroll of Roslindale, Massachusetts; and Elizabeth “Betsy” Kurtz of Downingtown, PA; one daughter-in-law, Rita Kurtz Scholl; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one son, Stephen Kurtz; and numerous brothers and sisters.
A celebration of life will be announced in the future at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Roupp Funeral Home, Inc., 8594 Old Turnpike Rd., Mifflinburg, PA.
People are invited to leave their condolences online at www.rouppfuneralhome.com
BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES
Looking for what is happening now in the village? Look no further than the Bayfield Activities Calendar . People are invited to refer to this website to learn what activities, from Pickleball to Mahjong, are happening and when.
CHILDREN’S CHORUS AUDITIONS THIS SUNDAY
Members of the Children’s Chorus can be seen in this image from 2019 taken during “Sleeping Beauty – The Panto”. (Photo courtesy Huron Country Playhouse)
Drayton Entertainment is excited to announce its Children’s Chorus audition date for the 2023 Season. The award-winning not-for-profit theatre company is looking for young performers for productions in Grand Bend this summer. The Children’s Chorus provides youth the opportunity to sing in group ensemble numbers alongside professional leads. Auditions will take place on Sunday, March 12 at the Huron Country Playhouse.
“As a professional company, it is our responsibility to cultivate the artists and citizens of tomorrow, and this program is a great way for youth to gain valuable experience,” said Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment, Alex Mustakas. “The talent and passion displayed by aspiring young performers never ceases to amaze us, and we’re excited to see new and familiar faces alike at these auditions.”
Youth aged eight to 15 who are strong movers and comfortable singing in a group are invited to audition for the Children’s Chorus in “Wizard of Oz: The Panto”. Performances are at the Huron Country Playhouse’s South Huron Stage from June 7-25, with rehearsals starting May 20. The auditions will take place on Sunday, March 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Huron Country Playhouse, with sign-in and warm up starting at 10:30 a.m.
Drayton Entertainment is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in casting and invites all eligible candidates to audition without regard to disability, ethno-cultural identity, or gender expression.
The company is also dedicated to providing a safe and discrimination-free work environment for all employees.
The Huron Country Playhouse is located at 70689 B Line, Grand Bend.
More information about the auditions, requirements, and how to register can be found at: huroncountryplayhouse.com.
TASTE OF HURON CELEBRATES SPRING’S SWEET SYRUP
The County of Huron’s Economic Development department, in partnership with local Maple syrup producers, is hosting a new Food Festival called Maple Mania this March.
Maple Mania will celebrate local food, Huron County’s agricultural producers and those who use spring’s sweet syrup in menus and tasty treats. Maple Mania will run all month long as cafes and bakeries prepare their sweet treats from locally-sourced Maple syrup ranging from tarts, tea biscuits, and cookies to French toast and danishes. Maple lovers can also enjoy apple Maple schnapps, a sweet Maple BBQ sauce and delightful candy confections. Joining in the fun locally are Shop Bike Coffee Roasters, The Pink Flamingo Bakery and Boutique and Bayfield Berry Farm.
From now through until the end of the month, nine area restaurants will offer sweet dining experiences by providing Prix Fixe menus featuring spring’s natural sweetener in every course. From appetizers and salad dressings to meats and vegetables and drinks and desserts, Maple’s versatility offers a range of textures and presents an infinite variety of tastes. The participating restaurants are: The Black Dog Pub and Bistro, Bayfield; Blyth Inn; Eddington’s of Exeter; Hessenland Inn and Schatz Winery, St. Joseph; The Little Inn of Bayfield; Oakwood Resort, Grand Bend; Olio, Bayfield; Part II Bistro, Goderich, and The White Squirrel Restaurant, St Joseph.
On March 18, Maple lovers can also enjoy these sweet activities:
- Visit local area sugar bushes including Bayfield Maple, Schilbe Family Maple, Westlake’s Maple Syrup
- Take a sugar bush walk with Indigenous Food Historian or experts on trees and forest animals from the local Ausable Bayfield or Maitland Valley Conservation Authorities
- Enjoy Pancake Breakfasts hosted by local Firefighters in Blyth (Saturday) and Zurich (Sunday, March 19)
- Experience presentations on such topics as Candy Making or Birds of Prey
- Meet some live reptiles (Bayfield Public Library, 11 a.m.)
- Build a Playmobil story (Village Toy Castle in Brucefield)
On the evening of March 18, the White Squirrel Golf Course and Restaurant is hosting “Maple Meal & Comedy Mayhem”. This event will include a three-course dinner featuring Maple infused dishes along with a comedy show by three stand-up comedians, Cassie Cao, Jarrett Campbell and Nour Hadidi, who have all appeared on “Just for Laughs”. Tickets are $60 plus tax and include dinner and the show. Beverages and gratuity are separate.
There’s something for everyone during Maple Mania in Huron County!
For full details and information on participating partners visit tasteofhuron.com or for up-to-the minute details go to @tasteofhuron on Facebook or Instagram.
The County of Huron thanks Community Futures Huron for their support in the early planning of this event.
EASTER MAKERS MARKET IN SUPPORT OF KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
The first annual “Easter Makers Market”, hosted by Edge Wood Decor, will take place Saturday, March 18 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Goderich.
Event organizer Cindy Scholten, owner of Edge Wood Decor, said she is thrilled to be hosting another event in support of the Goderich Knights of Columbus. This event will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“The first event I held for the Knights of Columbus was the Farmers Market Christmas Craft Sale last November, and we raised over $1,000 for them. People don’t realise that COVID really hurt service clubs and the charities they serve. The Knights support well over 30 local charities, so by coming out to my events, you’ll also be doing your part in supporting their efforts. I’m really hoping to surpass the total from last November.”
Scholten hosts several different vendor markets across Southern Ontario.
“I decided to host these markets as a way to support other makers and small business owners like myself,” she said. “The event is free to attend, but we do ask for a small cash donation at entry, which goes directly to the Knights of Columbus.”
From 11 a.m. to noon and again from 1-2 p.m., the Easter Bunny will be on stage for free selfies and suckers will be handed out as well.
The market should have something for everyone, with over 40 one-of-a-kind local vendors consisting of artists, crafters, makers and bakers and small business owners.
“We will have some of the most unique items to shop from, as well as home decor, pastries, face painting and tons of treats,” added Scholten. “The fun doesn’t end there, this year I’m doing a free cash prize draw for two $100 cash prizes, we have Bobby’s Tandoori House from Bayfield back selling hot lunch and we are so fortunate to have Kim Ladd back with his music on stage.”
Vendors looking to book a space can email Scholten directly for an application at: cindy.scholten007@gmail.com. She shared that there are only a handful of spaces left at this time.
The Knights of Columbus Hall is located at 390 Parsons Court in Goderich.
COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR ONLINE AUCTION UNDERWAY
On Feb. 25, several Coldest Night of the Year Walks were held across the region organized by the United Way of Huron-Perth. One such walk was held in Goderich that proved very successful. In addition to the actual event an on-line auction is currently ongoing and is open to anyone who would like to bid on some fabulous merchandise!
To make a bid visit: Goderich Coldest Night of the Year Facebook group. This auction will close on March 31 at noon.
Items to bid on include a quilt, seven different beach glass necklaces, two separate pieces of wood art, and a toque and mug package.
All proceeds will help support the Huron Homelessness Initiative in Huron County including: shelter for women, children and youth; emergency shelter during the cold months; Connection Centre; as well as transitional housing for men and housing support.
Winners of all items will be posted on the United Way Perth-Huron website and Goderich Coldest Night of the Year Facebook page.
Editor’s Note: Look for a feature on the Goderich’s Coldest Night of Year event in Issue 714.
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.
GODERICH LIONS
Goderich Lions Club members understand that people are missing the social aspect of in-person Bingos and their volunteers have been exploring ways to bring this style of fundraiser back to the community and surrounding area.
Starting on March 6, The Park House in Goderich and the Huron Fish and Game Club in Clinton will be the setting for Goderich Lions Club Bingo on Monday and Wednesday evenings starting at 7 p.m. Please note that Bingo tickets will not be available at these new sites. People can get their tickets at the locations listed below. For more information visit Goderich Lions on Facebook.
For those who prefer to play from the comfort of their own home Goderich Lions TV Bingo will continue also on Monday and Wednesday evenings starting at 7 p.m. They are broadcast on Eastlink Channel 10, Hurontel Channel 1 and Tuckersmith Channel 1.
Tickets for the televised games are available at Bayfield Convenience and Gifts; Clinton Foodland and Clinton Convenience; Buckey Joes, Vanastra; Hodgins Home Hardware, Lucknow; Goderich Convenience; Suncoast Variety, Goderich; and Finchers in Goderich and Kincardine. Lottery License #: M717413.
SUSTAINABLE CAP
Farmers and the province’s wider agri-food sector will benefit from an upcoming new, five-year agreement between the governments of Canada and Ontario. The agreement will provide a range of investments that will help improve productivity, competitiveness and resilience in this key area of the economy and enable the province to meet goals outlined in Ontario’s Grow Ontario Strategy.
The governments have negotiated a Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) for Ontario that will see upwards of $1.77 billion in support for the agri-food sector over the life of the agreement. Through Sustainable CAP, $569 million will be invested in strategic initiatives, which is a 25 per cent increase over the previous funding agreement. There will also be roughly $1.2 billion for continued, demand-driven, business risk management support for farmers.
Sustainable CAP will also boost investments in research and innovation and other strategic areas to strengthen the sector. The agreement will include the launch of the new Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP), a funding initiative to mitigate climate change and support the agricultural sector in better addressing sustainability outcomes.
“Our agri-food sector plays an invaluable role in this province. It is an economic powerhouse and the reliable provider of so many different, safe, high-quality and delicious foods that we all enjoy,” said Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson. “This agreement will create new opportunities to make this world-class sector even stronger and position it to sustainably grow during and well beyond the term of this pact.”
The Sustainable CAP starts on Apr. 1 and replaces the Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The programs will support the vision and priorities the federal, provincial and territorial agriculture ministers agreed to in 2021 in The Guelph Statement.
The Sustainable CAP is a five-year (2023-2028), $3.5-billion investment by federal‐provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and $2.5 billion in cost-shared programs and activities by federal, provincial and territorial governments.
Details about Sustainable CAP funding opportunities and programming will be posted online as they become available.
SOUTH HURON VITALITY FUND
Applications are now being accepted for grants from the South Huron Vitality Fund (SHVF). Deadline for applications is Apr. 1st.
The SHVF was created through the generosity of the South Huron Municipal Council and many community members through Family Funds and personal donations. It provides small grants to organizations offering community programs, events, and activities in South Huron.
“This is an opportunity for these organizations to receive financial support for innovative ideas to strengthen our community”, said Tom Prout, chair of the SHCF Committee.
Information about how to apply is available on the Foundation’s website at: Sunset Community Foundation. The first step is to contact Lisa Reaume, Executive director, via email at sunsetcommunityfoundation@gmail.com or by calling 519280-0944 to discuss your organization’s idea.
In previous years, the SHVF grants have supported Big Brothers Big Sisters South Huron, Exeter Skating Club, Exeter Branch Library, South Huron Creative Arts Centre, the Huron Waves Music Festival, Noah’s Ark, Winterfest, and Friends of Pinery Park.
LIVERY FILM FEST
The Livery Film Fest continues with “Living” on March 23.
“Living” stars Bill Nighy in an Oscar nominated role as a British Civil Servant forced to re-evaluate his life choices after a medical diagnosis. He tries to cram as much fun as he can into his previously staid life. In addition to Nighy’s Best Actor nomination, the film is also nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film has played at both the Sundance Film Festival and the Toronto International Film Festival, where it has been described as “uplifting” and “deeply moving” and the actors as “pitch-perfect”.
The film will be shown at the Park Theatre, located at 30 Courthouse Square in Goderich and begin at 7 p.m.
A new opportunity at the Film Fest is a film talk to be held immediately after the shows at Paddy O’Neil’s Restaurant Pub. The pub is located in the Bedford Hotel at 92 Courthouse Square.’
For more information, please email: Livery Film Fest Chair Rob McAuley at rob@rmcauley.ca.
IN-HOME RECREATION PROGRAM
The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth (ASHP) is currently looking for dedicated volunteers to help with their In-Home Recreation Program.
The In-Home Recreation Program allows short-term respite for the care partner, while providing companionship for the person with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.
Fully trained volunteers provide 1:1 weekly visits with the person living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementia with visits ranging from one to hours. Volunteers will facilitate activities and provide social and cognitive stimulation for the person living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.
For more information regarding volunteering please contact Paulina Balch via email at paulinab@alzhp.ca or by calling 519 271-1910.
PARTNER APPRECIATION EVENING
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) is pleased to announce the return of their Partner Appreciation Evening.
This annual early-evening event (5 p.m.), to honor community conservation partners and to present the Conservationist of the Year Award, was last held in 2019. The event was not held from 2020, 2021 and 2022 due to the pandemic. The Partner Appreciation Evening will take place on Thursday, March 16 at the Ironwood Golf Club.
This conservation awards event will feature a presentation by Annabelle Rayson, 2022 winner of the Stockholm Junior Water Prize. She will speak on harmful algae blooms and her research to treat them and prevent them in Lake Huron and the other Great Lakes.
Also as part of the evening, staff at ABCA will also provide an introduction to the 2023 Ausable Bayfield Watershed Report Cards. The report cards are to be released on World Water Day (March 22).
An additional highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Conservationist of the Year Award, for the 40th consecutive year.
To learn more about the Conservationist of the Year Award, and the Partner Appreciation Evening, visit the web page: Conservationist of the Year. To attend the Partner Appreciation Evening please RSVP by March 9 to Sharon Pavkeje by emailing spavkeje@abca.ca or by calling 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.
The Ironwood Golf Club is located at 70969 Morrison Line, 2 km east of Exeter.
REMEMBER THIS
The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 6,700 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.
“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.
As today (March 8) is International Women’s Day this week’s artifact reflects how the societal roles of women have changed over time especially with regards to their service in the Canadian Armed Forces…
CANADIAN WOMEN’S ARMY CORPS UNIFORM CAP
This is a green, wool gabardine cap with a leather brim strap. The brim strap is attached with brass buttons with the Canadian Army crest. Pinned to the front of the cap is the Canadian Women’s Army Corps badge. Printed inside the cap lining reads: “The Wolf Cap Co. /Montreal/ 1942/Size 6 3/4”. Sewn on the inside of the cap lining is a cotton tag with “W80411 / Young. B.L” handwritten in black ink.
The Canadian Women’s Army Corps (CWAC) was a non-combatant branch of the Canadian Army for women established during the Second World War. CWAC was created to release men from non-combatant roles in the Canadian Armed Forces as part of expanding Canada’s war effort. Most women served in Canada but some served overseas, most in roles such as secretaries, mechanics and cooks. The CWAC was finally abolished as a separate corps in 1964 when women were fully integrated into the Canadian Armed Forces.
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Canadian Women's Army Corps Uniform Cap
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Close up of badge.
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Interior View
BAYFIELD SKATING CLUB
SUN, SAND AND SKATES THEME OF SKATING CARNIVAL AND SHOWCASE
STORY AND PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
The Bayfield Skating Club has 74 members this year and approximately 50 of these youth participated in the carnival. The remaining members’ area of concentration is learning power skating and so those members did not share their skills this time around.
The 2023 carnival did however showcase the many talented skaters that belong to the club including solo performances by Lili Glen, Emma Arts and Freya Toccalino. Bayfield Skating Club members were honored to have several guest skaters perform during the carnival including: Noah Woodman, Mia Haggitt, Sarah Evans, Mia Woodman and Milan Radan.
Several youngsters decked out in costume took to the ice to perform in such fun themed musical numbers as “Swimming in the Sea”, “Tropical Tourists”, “Ridin’ The Wave”, “Surf’s Up”, “Hawaiian Roller Coaster” and “Summer Cruisin’”.
In addition to their coaches the young skaters were assisted on the ice by Carson Brady, Sierra Whetstone and Elise Brady.
The generous crowd, composed of proud parents, grandparents, friends and community members, filled the bleachers, the stairs and surrounding rink. Those who preferred a warmer viewing spot peered out from the windows overlooking the ice from the hall above. Everyone was very enthusiastic – cheering and clapping for all that took to the ice to showcase their newfound skills.
“This was our first carnival after so many years and it was just amazing to see everyone fill the arena. And the crowd was skating right along with each skater!” said Jody Whetstone, a coach with the club.
The club’s new “Intro to Stars” session was sponsored by Re/Max Reliable Realty – Brian Coombs and Bayfield Vette Fest.
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For a closer look at these images click on any one to open a pop up gallery.
Submit Your photo
Email your photo in Jpeg format to hello@bayfield-breeze.com with the subject line Subscriber Photo of the Week. or…Upload your photo to Flickr.
I am looking for the Bayfield that is a delight to the eye – please share photos with a touch of whimsy, beauty, humor or a sense of fun. If you are to include people in your photos be sure to have their permission to publish their picture on-line and also send in their names and where they are from. And don’t forget to tell me who took the photo for proper credit to be issued.
SUBMISSIONS
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Melody Falconer-Pounder
“A single woman’s voice is now louder than ever.”**
Today, March 8, marks International Women’s Day. Recognized worldwide since 1911, International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This year’s theme is Embrace Equity. It challenges us to understand that Equity and Equality are not the same.
I feel that on this special day it is important to look back while continuing to forge ahead. I found this video created in 2020 by the UN Women rather inspiring and thought I’d share it with you here: A Global History of Women’s Rights, in three minutes”.
With gratitude and grace – Melody
**From A Global History of Women’s Rights, in three minutes
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.