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The Bayfield BreezeIssue 715 Week 13 Vol 14

March 22, 2023

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Issue 715 Week 13 Vol 14
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BAYFIELD PACC ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE

2023 PACC Officers

The Bayfield PACC is pleased to announce their new officers for 2023 l-r: Janet Deline with Lissie, Jeff Kish with Abby, Peter Brent with Violet and Finnegan, and Susan Easton with Tucker. (Photo by Jack Pal)


Bayfield PACCThe Bayfield PACC (People and Canine Community) Board of Directors have been busy working in the background on possible dog park locations, both with private landowners and the Municipality of Bluewater, and will provide an update in the next few weeks.

While that is percolating, Bayfield PACC is pleased to announce their new officers for 2023: Jeff Kish, president; Peter Brent, vice-president; Susan Easton, treasurer; and Janet Deline, secretary.

PACC thanks Julaine Brent and Sean Taylor for their service as President and Treasurer, respectively, in the start-up of PACC, and are happy to report that they are continuing as Board Members, along with Jack Pal, Dave MacLaren and Suzan Johnson.

PACC’s 2023 membership drive will be kicking off soon, and the membership form and details are on the website at www.bayfieldpacc.com.

Bayfield PACC is looking to grow the “Dog Tales” series from 2021 and 2022, and are interested in hearing from residents that have an interesting story about how they came to acquire their dog.  Whether this pet came from near or far, please contact Bayfield PACC to share the story, at bayfieldpacc@gmail.com, or through the Bayfield PACC website, Facebook or Instagram pages.

Bayfield PACC encourages everyone to join Bayfield Trails on their Ninth Annual Earth Day Village Clean Up.  Please bring family, friends, and on-leash pups to Clan Gregor Square at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Apr. 22, to join in the clean up fun!

Bayfield People and Canine Community, Inc. (Bayfield PACC) is a registered not-for-profit in Ontario with a volunteer board of directors. Bayfield PACC is supported by an active group of responsible dog owners and volunteers in the community and by like-minded friends of Bayfield PACC on Facebook and Instagram. For more information please visit: www.bayfieldpacc.com.

CLOSE TO ONE HUNDRED EXHIBITORS TO ATTEND BAYFIELD HOME AND LEISURE SHOW

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Watson’s Home Hardware in Goderich had a cheerful spring display at the Home and Leisure Show in 2022. Close to hundred exhibitors are set to take part in the 2023 show coming up in April. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


The annual Bayfield Lions Club Home and Leisure Show is back and better than ever! It is the event of the season for homeowners, buyers, renovators, DIYers and more! And it’s springing up fast this year. People are encouraged to mark their  calendars for Apr. 22- 23.

The show will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.  The Lions Club pride themselves on making this event “free to the public” and although the admission is free, they gratefully accept donations to the local food bank.

Attendees are asked to remember to get their door prize ticket when they enter, then proceed to “Open Expo” located on the main floor. Those who work up an appetite strolling the booths can grab a bite at the food court upstairs as they stroll by even more exhibitors.

A highlight of this year’s show will be the display of an original Penhale Carriage. It was crafted by the late Tom Penhale of Bayfield who found international fame as the world’s foremost maker of horse-drawn wagons. Snippety the Clown will be on hand to provide free face painting for the kids while the big kids will no doubt enjoy a stroll outside to see an exhibit of fun recreational vehicles.

This is going to be one of the biggest home and leisure shows in the area, not only because it’s the only Home Show in the area, but because it’s a full show of everything needed to get ready for the Spring and Summer seasons be it home, cottage, camper or rental.

Visitors can look forward to seeing close to 100 exhibitors located upstairs and downstairs and outside of the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena, including: park models, trailers, bear chairs, home improvement, electric bikes, and even a hot tub.

“We sold out of our main floor Exhibitor booths very quickly this year,” noted Tony Van Bakel, of the Bayfield Lions Home Show Committee.  “I think it had to do with the earlier start of our marketing this year.”

For anyone interested in signing on as an Exhibitor there are two options left: upstairs booths for $350 and outdoor booths for $150.  This year, the Lions Club Committee is extra excited about a great show with some fascinating exhibitor arrangements for inside and outside the community centre and arena.

This is a great way to celebrate the warmer seasons in Bayfield, as the days will be brighter, the flowers will be starting to blossom and the buds will be popping on the trees!  The Lions invite everyone to help them welcome Spring and come on out and experience this one-of-a-kind show!

For more information visit: bayfieldlions.ca.

PANCAKE BRUNCH AND SCHILBE SUGAR BUSH TOUR RETURNS

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Snowflakes were in the air when people boarded the hay wagon bound for the Schilbe Sugar Bush on a tractor capably driven by Paul Aldwinkle during the 2018 event. Apr. 1st is the date to save in 2023. (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.

FILM CIRCUIT MOVIES COMING TO VILLAGE

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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.

BAYFIELD READS THIS SUNDAY

Residents and book-lovers are invited to come out and cheer for their friends and neighbors at Bayfield Reads this Sunday, March 26 at the Bayfield Town Hall.

Bayfield Reads is the village’s own local version of Canada Reads – every year CBC chooses five Canadian books each defended by a notable Canadian. The theme for 2023 as determined by the CBC is: “One book to shift your perspective.” Local defenders have been charged with articulating why the book they are defending is truly the one to shift people’s perspective. The event will commence 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 final say.

Bayfield has its own group of notable defenders. They, along with the books they are defending, are: Dave MacLaren, Ducks by Kate Beaton;  Judy Whittaker, Greenwood by Michael Christie; Tina Bax, Hotline by Dimitri Nasrallah; Kristin Strang, Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia; and Tyler Hessel, Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel.

All the 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.

CANDLELIGHT WALK TWO WEEKS AWAY

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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)


There are just two weeks remaining until the Second Annual Candlelight Memorial Walk will be held on the Taylor Trail in Varna. On Apr. 1st the entire trail will be lit by hundreds of candle-lit lanterns, making the experience for walkers magical.

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.

Participants have the opportunity to make a tax-deductible donation to light a candle in memory of a loved one. Memorial names will be read during the dedication service at 8 p.m. while participants warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. This event is suitable for all age groups and the 1 km self-guided walk is on an accessible nature trail.

All proceeds of this event will go towards nursing care at Huron Hospice. Unlike hospitals, hospices in Ontario receive only partial funding for their daily operating costs, while services are free of charge.

For more information or to donate, visit Huron Hospice events or call Roger Mather at 905 630-3571.

CAT THAT VOCALIZES LIKE A BIRD AMONG FEATURED ADOPTEES

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Rosemary AKA Pigeon/Cricket (Submitted photos)


Due to rising veterinary and care costs, Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) will be raising their adoption fees. The good news is that this will not be happening until April and they currently have many amazing cats and kittens available for adoption at the low fee of $200. Now is the time to add a loving cat or kitten to the family. BFF’s cats are spayed/neutered and vaccinated. They have a cat for everyone’s lifestyle and personality.

The Adopt a BFF cats of the week are Opal, Rosemary and Mia.

Opal is a retired momma, but don’t let her calm demeanor fool you. She can play with the best of them. This beautiful Calico is very affectionate and does well with other cats, dogs and children.

Rosemary is a gorgeous, silver Tabby that the volunteers at the Rescue have nicknamed “Cricket” or “Pigeon” due to her unique twittering vocalization. A retired feral momma, she is looking for someone who has the patience to give her time to settle into her new home. Volunteers believe that it will be well worth it. She has come so far already and often rolls around in her enclosure with her big “come pet me” eyes.

Who said black cats are bad luck? Mia brings joy to everyone she meets. Whether playing, cuddling or just being held, Mia is content. She is a small girl and does well with other cats and children. She would be a wonderful addition to any family. Oh, and Mia has a lovely brother if two is your lucky number.

There are many more lovelies like Opal, Rosemary and Mia ready to go to a home and now is the perfect time for adoption. BFF volunteers look forward to hearing from potential adoptees and helping them find their perfect family member.

To learn more please contact BFF via email at bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com. The adoption fee remains at  $200 until April. 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.


IN MEMORIAM

WELL RESPECTED DOCTOR LEFT MARK ON WHOLE  OF BLUEWATER

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Dr. Charles Wallace was the Parade Marshall for the 2014 Bayfield Fair Parade. He was transported along the route in a convertible driven by Jamie McDougall. Dr. Wallace died on March 18 at the age of 93. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


The community will no doubt be saddened to learn of the recent death of a very well respected citizen – Dr. Charles James Wallace.

Peacefully, surrounded by his family at the South Huron Hospital, Exeter on Saturday, March 18 at the age of 93. Long-time resident of Bayfield and formerly of Zurich and Grand Bend.

Loving husband of Moira (Doyle) Wallace for almost 70 years. Beloved father of Andrew Wallace (Taehyun Ahn) of Toronto, and Deirdre Denholm (Gregg) of Michigan. Proud grandfather of Graeme Wallace (Rizaline) of Toronto and Julia Wallace (Matthew Schichter) of Toronto and great-grandfather of his namesake, Charles James Wallace. Fondly remembered by many cousins, nieces and nephews around the world. Predeceased by his parents James and Jean (McCallum) Wallace, and his sister Elisabeth Baur.

Born Nov. 3, 1929, on an army base in Sialkot, then British-occupied India, he spent his early childhood in Burma (now Myanmar). This was sadly interrupted by the outbreak of war which saw Charles and Elisabeth moved to the safety and care of their maternal grandparents (“Grits and Grumps” McCallum) in Ardrishaig, Scotland. Here they would learn in 1943 of the tragic death of their father, James, a Lieutenant-Colonel in the Indian Army, in the defence of the Burma Road.

Charles completed his medical training at Guy’s Hospital, London during the 1950s, where he was active in the boxing club, receiving more than a few black eyes. He was also active in the local London jazz scene and became a competent clarinetist. There he met Moira and many of his life-long friends. He did well as a student and won a prize for cardiology. He was convinced that it was important to thoroughly examine patients, as that was the best way to learn. He was certainly gifted at diagnosis.

After beginning his medical career in Cardiff, Wales, he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1961 on a three year commission and was stationed in Centralia. At the end of his service period, he was approached by a delegation from the local village of Zurich who asked if he would consider working there. He thought it over and decided to give it a try, and the rest is history. Charles served the medical needs of the local community for the next 50-odd years, earning their love and respect. Notable was his work to establish the Bluewater Rest Home in Zurich, of which he was the first Chairman (and a later resident) and becoming one of the first doctors in Ontario to employ a nurse practitioner, Margaret (Maggie) Visscher.

Charles was grateful to the community for the wonderful send-off he received following his retirement in 2014.

Friends are invited to gather at the Coach House at Hessenland Inn, 72981 Bluewater Highway, Zurich on Saturday, June 17  from 1-5 p.m.  To RSVP please send an email to drwallacememorial@gmail.com. A private family interment will be held at the Bayfield Cemetery.

Donations in his memory may be directed to the Bluewater Rest Home Zurich or Covenant House. Haskett Funeral Home in Zurich has been entrusted with arrangements.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) are seeking new candidates to fill three vacant Member at Large positions on their Board of Directors (BOD). They are looking for epic, community minded people!

“We would appreciate being able to round out the skill sets of our BOD by including someone from the Real Estate, Legal, Accounting and Medical fields, but would love to hear from all interested parties,” said Secretary-Treasurer Terri Louch.

What’s required?

  • passion for the community and the success of business in the area
  • willingness to share ideas and have discussions in a respectful manner
  • commit time to attend the meetings (10 per year), head a committee of the BOD (as required), answer email in a timely fashion and volunteer to represent the Chamber (as required)
  • Membership or Associate Membership in the BACC

Interested applicants are asked to please send a resume with a cover letter or letter of introduction indicating that they are interested in a position and why to villageofbayfield@gmail.com.

“If we receive more than three candidates the matter will go to vote at the Annual Meeting. This will necessitate sharing any information about yourself that you provide with the Membership,” explained Louch.

Three applications or less will be reviewed by the BOD at their end of year meeting in March.

“Approved candidates will be asked to join us at the Annual meeting in April as part of the team who will be approved as a slate,” said Louch. “We look forward to having you join us!”

The Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) Annual Meeting will be held on Apr. 19.

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.

WESTERN HURON COUNTY ALUMNI

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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

Bayfield Agricultural Society LogoThe 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 Food Bank LogoBayfield 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.

Holy Week is fast approaching and people in the community may wish to note these special service times: Maundy Thursday, Apr. 6 – 6 p.m. at Trinity St. James; Good Friday, Apr. 7 – 10 a.m. at the Parish of the Holy Spirit, 21 Jarvis Street in Seaforth; Easter Sunday, Apr. 9 – 11 a.m. at Trinity St James.

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.

LIBRARY FRIENDS

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

LEGO CLUB

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There was a tremendous turn-out at the inaugural meeting of the Bayfield Lego Club held on Saturday, March 18 at Trinity St James Anglican Church where youngsters and their grown-ups built MOCs (My Own Creation) like this very cleverly designed treehouse. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


After a wonderful inaugural meeting families with an interest in Lego design and creativity are invited to come and further “their love for the brick” again next month when the second meeting of the Bayfield Lego Club will be held on Saturday, Apr. 15.

The club’s second 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 of their own accord or based on a monthly theme.

Judging from the turn-out on Saturday the club is going to need some more Lego to satisfy the demand of their creators. Organizers are now accepting donations of any Lego pieces or sets that people may no longer have a use for. To donate please email Melody Falconer-Pounder at melody.pounder@gmail.com.

Trinity St James Anglican Church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.

BRVTA

Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (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. All are welcome but people are asked to please leave their canine friends at home for this event. Full details can be found in the article entitled, “Candlelight Walk two weeks away”.

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.

OPTIMIST CLUB

Time is running out for people to add an engraved brick to the path around the Splash Pad in Clan Gregor Square. The last day to order for 2023 is March 31.

Organized by members of the Optimist Club of Bayfield, 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 2023 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.


LIVERY FILM FEST

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The Livery Film Fest continues with “Living” tomorrow evening (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.

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!

WEDNESDAY BRIDGE

The Bayfield Bridge Club is inviting new people to come out for a few friendly games of Bridge on Wednesday afternoons at the Bayfield Lions’ Community Building.

The cards are shuffled at 1 p.m. Players do not need a partner to participate in these “drop-in” sessions. The cost to join in the fun is $4.

All levels of players are welcome to take part in the games that are played year-round at the building located at 6 Municipal Road in the village.

WINNER OF STOCKHOLM JUNIOR WATER PRIZE PRESENTS RESEARCH AT ABCA EVENT

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Sarnia secondary school student Annabelle Rayson, who in 2022, received the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, in person, from HRH Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, was the keynote speaker at the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Partner Appreciation Evening held on March 16 at Ironwood Golf Club east of Exeter. (Submitted photo)


Close to 60 people attended Ausable Bayfield Conservation’s Partner Appreciation Evening on March 16 and heard a presentation by Annabelle Rayson, winner of the 2022 Stockholm Junior Water Prize.

The Sarnia student provided the keynote presentation about “Algae Blooms and Research on How to Treat Them and Prevent Them in the Great Lakes”. Annabelle discussed her award-winning research on how distinct genotypes of Daphnia magna (a type of Zooplankton, a tiny organism that eats algae, and a naturally occurring keystone species to the Great Lakes), might be used to eat algae and reduce algal blooms. Annabelle told the crowd about five experiments and 195 tests she performed in her research. She conducted tests that included different species of Daphnia magna and algae to determine which genotype would work best at consuming the more toxic forms of algae. In her tests, she found a genotype that she said is a promising candidate for the treatment of harmful algae blooms.

Annabelle is hoping to continue and further test her research and, upon successful testing, obtain the approvals necessary to employ zooplankton enhancement to reduce algae blooms.

“I am hoping to continue my research at university to eventually have it tested and approved… so I can implement it as a solution for harmful algae bloom treatment and prevention,” she said.

The proposed strategy of increasing the presence of this naturally-occurring zooplankton in the Great Lakes would be, she said, “ … a sustainable method that can actually prevent algae blooms.” It could also prevent exposing lakes to toxic algaecides and other harmful chemicals.

“The future sustainable algae bloom prevention will be much cleaner, which will help to ensure clean water access and healthy lakes for all,” she said.

Annabelle is a Grade 12 student from St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in Sarnia. She received the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, in person, from HRH Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden. Annabelle has attended three national, Canada-wide Science Fair competitions, including 2022, and has been an award winner. Annabelle took part (2022), in the Netherlands, in the European Union Contest for Young Scientists.

The annual early-evening event, to honor community conservation partners and to present the Conservationist of the Year Award, was held in person for the first time since 2019. It took place at Ironwood Golf Club east of Exeter.

ORGANIZATION AND RURAL PLACE AS A PROCESS EXPLAINED DURING LECTURE

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Partricipants in the most recent virtual lecture series hosted by Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health were clockwise from top left: Scott Brown, PhD, Research associate for Gateway; Jay McFarlan, Board member and Research chair of Rural Nutrition and Exercise for Gateway; Paul Nichol, General manager, Community Futures Huron; and Peter Smith, Executive and Creative director, Canadian Centre for Rural Creativity. (Submitted photo)


On Tuesday, March 7, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) hosted their 22nd Virtual Lecture Series Event with the topic “Gateway: At the Intersection of Organization & Place”.

“A good way to describe Gateway is to simply refer to its name, Gateway (Portal), it’s been very appropriately named. Essentially Gateway is a portal for rural health research that aims to build up the research capacity in the area,” said Dr. Scott Brown

The lecture was hosted by Nancy Simpson, Board secretary for Gateway;  and featured keynote speaker, Scott Brown, PhD, Research associate for Gateway. Additionally, the event featured panelists: Peter Smith, Executive and Creative director, Canadian Centre for Rural Creativity; Paul Nichol, General manager, Community Futures Huron; and Jay McFarlan, Board member and Research chair of Rural Nutrition and Exercise for Gateway.

Brown is a recent PhD graduate from the University of Guelph and has a passion for rural geography, capacity development, organizational development, organizational studies, and process philosophy.

Brown began his presentation by explaining the quick theories of rural place as a process and organization as a process. Soon after, he elaborated on these theories by speaking to Gateway’s organizational endurance and contribution or “rural place-making”. Brown spoke to a model produced by Keith Halfacree based on rural space that aligns real practices, concepts and discourses, and subjective experience, goals and meaning. Relating this model to practice, Brown references Gateway activities including community-based research which involves passionate board members, research chairs, and students.

After the presentation, Brown led the panelist discussion. McFarlan shared his experience with Gateway and expressed the value of having key individuals to lead and drive the organization. Smith told a story regarding his time as Artistic Director at the Blyth Festival and explained that the voice of the community has had a huge impact on the movement and revitalization of the Blyth Memorial Community Hall. Finally, Nichol gave insight into the importance of place-making in relation to Huron County and those who are working towards making change in this area.

All are invited to attend the next Gateway Rural Health Lecture on Tuesday, Apr. 4, by registering on their website: Gateway Lecture Series. In this lecture, Sheila Schuehlein and Sarah Versteeg will highlight two successful and locally conducted examples (Lonely No More Program and Connectedness Coaching) of transforming research into community-based action. Their presentation is entitled, “Enhancing the Resilience of Our Rural Communities: Moving Knowledge into Practice”.

Gateway recognizes their generous donors for their support of this lecture series.

GODERICH LIONS HOST INSPIRATIONAL TALKS

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Brian O’Reilly (Submitted photo)


The Goderich Lions are thrilled to announce their upcoming series of wellness talks featuring Brian O’Reilly of Human Potential Plus. With over 40 years of experience as a high-performance life coach, O’Reilly is set to deliver a series of four insightful and inspiring talks entitled, “Creating a Caring Community”.

The talks will be held every Monday evening in April and will be hosted at the Mackay Center in Goderich. Doors will open at 6:45 p.m. to allow attendees to get settled before the talks begin.

As a community organization committed to promoting wellness, the Goderich Lions are proud to offer this event free of charge to anyone interested in attending. While donations are welcome, the primary goal is to provide access to invaluable information and insights from a seasoned expert.

“We’re excited to bring Brian O’Reilly to our community,” said John Maaskant, the vice-president of the Goderich Lions. “His wealth of knowledge and experience as a high-performance life coach is exactly what many of us need during these challenging times. We’re proud to be able to offer this series of talks to everyone who wants to learn and grow.”

The Goderich Lions encourage anyone interested in attending to mark their calendars and plan to attend all four talks. With each session building upon the last, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it means to live a well-rounded and fulfilling life.

The session topics and dates are as follows: Apr. 3rd, “Living into Being a Good Human”;  Apr. 10, “Understanding Conditioned Unhappiness”; Apr. 17, “Reading your Own Book – The Within and Without”; Apr. 24, “The Deep Conditioning of Fear, Depression and Anger”.

For more information on the series of wellness talks, please visit the Goderich Lions’ Facebook Page.

LIGHT UP THE COMMUNITY WITH LOVE FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS

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Hearts in the two sizes pictured, but in Neon Blue, are now available from Wuerth’s Shoes on The Square in Goderich as a fundraiser for the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Foundation. (Submitted photo)


The Alexandra Marine & General Hospital Foundation (AMGHF) is launching a new campaign in support of their treasured healthcare team.

The AMGHF is undertaking a new fundraiser and they hope that as a community people will join with them and show their love for their frontline workers with the purchase of a ‘Hero Heart’.  The AMGHF wants to help the community recognize their Healthcare/Frontline workers in a tangible and visible form. The AMGHF knows firsthand how hard they have worked and continue to work, and they are tired.

“As we reflect on the struggles and challenges brought on by this pandemic, there is also much to be grateful for. Many thanks go out to all the staff and physicians involved in the pandemic response. Thank you to our community and partners for supporting us and each other as we navigated through this once in a lifetime global event,”  said Jimmy Trieu, CEO and president, Huron Health System. “Let us be reminded that when we work together, we can tackle challenges that come our way.  The fight continues and we are prepared to care for the most vulnerable.”

Let’s light up the community with love for them.

“We have partnered with Our Glowing Hearts and we want to see a Neon Blue Heart in as many windows as possible. The hearts can remain in your window as long as you like, all year – even better!” said Sherry Marshall, Board chair, AMGHF. “Drop by Wuerth’s Shoes downtown Goderich (142 The Square) for a look at how beautiful these hearts are, and look around the community to see how many of our local businesses and residents are joining in. Join us and light up our community with love.”

This beautifully crafted LED neon heart is dedicated to the healthcare heroes who have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. The heart is designed so that people can give it to a healthcare hero or place it in their front window to spread love to anyone passing by. Every heart comes with a baseplate and a screw for securely attaching it to the base plate. The base plate provides a sturdy base to place on a window sill. The frame is routered out of 3/4″ laminated hardwood, hand sanded, and assembled in Canada.  Each heart is unique and variations should be expected and treasured as a unique element. There are two sizes: Large – 12’x10’ and The Mini Heart – 7’x7’.

“We are so grateful for our healthcare team at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital. We have so many dedicated people at AMGH, they make it all work everyday, all day and all night. They are here for all of you,” said Kimberley Payne,  Executive director, AMGHF.  “We can show them in this beautiful, visible way how much we appreciate them. Let’s light up the community with love.”

For more information or to place an order for a Hero Heart please contact Kimberley Payne at kimberley.payne@amgh.ca or call 519 524-8508.

The AMGHF works in partnership with AMGH to ensure that quality health care is available to all residents of Huron County and neighboring communities. The AMGHF has been helping to enhance patient care and safety since 1993.

EASTER MAKERS MARKET RAISES FUNDS FOR KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

Cindy Scholten, owner of Edge Wood Decor, hosted the first annual Easter Makers Market last Saturday, March 18 at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Goderich.

“Everything I do is community minded, and in support of small business ,” said Scholten. “This event really showcased our local small business owners and artists. For many of them, these types of events are the only avenue for them to get the facetime they need with their customers.”

The event consisted of artists, crafters and small business owners. On hand to show his support of the event and its vendors was Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn.

Highlighting the importance of the entrepreneurial spirit, Mayor Ginn said in his greetings “…often booths like this grow into amazing, amazing businesses, these things (events) are really important for our communities. My thanks go to Cindy for organizing this, she does a great job and definitely has the entrepreneurial spirit we need around here.”

Scholten also hosted the Farmers Market Christmas Craft Sale last November at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

“We raised over $1000 at that event,” said Scholten. “Thanks to the generosity of the community I’m happy to report we raised another $1,132.05 for the Knights and the good charities they support here in Huron County.

“It was a fun day for everyone. Families enjoyed the live music by Kim Ladd as well as the Easter Bunny on stage. We did have a few snags and were unable to produce the live bunnies, but I promise we are working on that for next time. Thanks to all who came out to have fun and support our community.”

The winner of the “Most Loved Booth” went to Mardelle King, owner of Cakes, Cookies and Coffee.

Vendors looking for information on future Edge Wood Decor events can contact Scholten by emailing cindy.scholten007@gmail.com.

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.

CONSERVATIONIST OF THE YEAR

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The Conservationist of the Year Award winners for 2023 are Peter Warner and his late wife Esther. The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority honored the Warners, at a ceremony on March 16, for their many years of dedicated conservation, stewardship, and education. (Submitted photo)


Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) honored Peter Warner, and his late wife Esther, with the Conservationist of the Year Award. The ABCA presented the award at the Partner Appreciation Evening held at Ironwood Golf Club east of Exeter, on March 16.

ABCA Chair Marissa Vaughan presented the award and thanked Peter, and his late wife, for their many years of conservation, stewardship, and education.

Nathan Schoelier, Stewardship and Lands manager, said Peter and Esther conserved forests, meadows and wetlands, caring for their property with strong values of environmental protection and wildlife habitat.

“Peter and Esther Warner are very worthy winners of this award. They have embraced the principles of conservation for many years,” he said. “The Warners are conservationists who recognize the important role local landowners play in protecting, and enhancing the watershed that they, and the community, rely upon.”

The Warners have lived for many years on their beautiful 60-acre property, Merrywood Farms, in the heart of Grand Bend. Over the past 25 years Peter and Esther took many steps to improve the natural features of their property, working with ABCA staff to plant tree buffers, create a Managed Forest Plan, and host local students for environmental education and tree planting. In the spring of 2022, with the help of ABCA, Peter restored the remaining 15 acres of land by planting more than 7,000 native-species trees. They planted 16 different species of plants at their Grand Bend property to restore it to natural forest conditions.

The Warners received scrolls of recognition from Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb; Lianne Rood, MP, Lambton-Kent-Middlesex; Hon. Monte McNaughton, MPP, Lambton-Kent-Middlesex; and Hon. Lisa M. Thompson, MPP, Huron-Bruce.

ABCA has recognized outstanding achievements in conservation each year, since 1984, with conservation awards. This year was the 40th consecutive year the conservation authority has presented the award. Past award winners have included rural landowners and residents, agricultural producers and farms, service clubs, community organizations, companies, nature groups, and municipalities.

ABCA presents the winner with a hand-crafted gift and makes a donation towards a tree and plaque at a Commemorative Woods site maintained by the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation.

WATERSHED REPORT CARD

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Every five years, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) updates a report card on the state of local forests, wetlands and water. The conservation authority has announced it will release the latest Watershed Report Card (WRC) in time for World Water Day, which is today, March 22.

ABCA staff introduced the 2023 Watershed Report Card at the Partner Appreciation Evening held at Ironwood Golf Club on March 16. The ABCA area has five main watersheds: Ausable River, Bayfield River, Parkhill Creek; Mud Creek; and Lakeshore Watersheds The 2023 report card provides grades for forest and wetland conditions and surface water and groundwater quality.

Grades for surface water quality, in the report card, range from A to D. Most watersheds received a C grade indicating ‘fair’ surface water quality and D grades for ‘poor’ forest conditions. The WRC reports wetland cover as very low in the ABCA area. Groundwater quality is generally very good in the ABCA area, according to Mari Veliz, Healthy Watersheds Manager with ABCA, but some monitoring wells received a ‘less than A’ grade. Local conditions may make wells more vulnerable. Everyone is reminded to monitor their own well.

The report card recommends actions people, community groups, and agencies can take to improve their local environment.

There have been some improvements, for some indicators in some places, since local monitoring began in 2002, according to Veliz.

It may not be practical to turn D grades into C grades or C grades into B grades, Veliz said. In some cases, tree planting and wetland enhancement are needed simply to maintain forest and wetland cover to compensate for loss of forests and wetlands as demand for land grows. Still, people can protect and enhance their local area through positive actions that help to protect needed forests and wetlands and water quality.

“Our latest Watershed Report Card provides practical ideas and next steps people can consider as they work to protect and enhance their local environment,” Veliz said.

People ask what they can do to protect water and biodiversity.

“Your own backyard creek is a great place to start,” she said. “We thank watershed residents who have already shown, through tree planting and other positive actions such as planting cover crops or installing wetlands, that they understand the value of nature.”

To learn more visit Watershed Report Card. 

Many of Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities plan to release Watershed Report Cards on World Water Day. Conservation Ontario created standards for WRC reporting across Ontario. Conservation Ontario represents Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities. Conservation authorities are mandated to ensure the conservation, restoration and responsible management of Ontario’s water, land and natural habitats. They do this through stewardship and education programs and policies that balance environmental and human needs.

The United Nations observes World Water Day each year to highlight the importance of freshwater.

LIVING WAGE EMPLOYER

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Britespan Building Systems Inc., in Wingham, ON, is the latest business to certify as a living wage employer, marking this achievement are from l-r: Phil Goulet, director of Technical Services and Materials Management, Britespan; Lisa Harper, United Way Perth-Huron manager Community Development, Northern Huron; and Stephanie Towton Executive assistant and Administrative leader, Britespan. (Photo provided by Britespan Building Systems Inc. – Hannah Dickie)


Britespan Building Systems Inc., in Wingham, ON,  is the latest business to certify as a living wage employer.

“At Britespan, we value fairness, responsibility, respect, sustainability and social justice,” said Phil Goulet, director of technical services and materials management. “Britespan believes that organizations have a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of their employees and the wider community, and that providing a living wage is a critical part of fulfilling that responsibility.”

“We are proud to support our employees and the living wage movement in Ontario,” added Stephanie Towton, executive assistant and administrative leader.

“We thank Britespan Building Systems for certifying,” added Ryan Erb, United Way Perth-Huron’s executive director. “When workers are paid a living wage, it helps address unaffordable living in our communities. We appreciate Britespan recognizing how important the living wage initiative is and committing to their employees and the place they call home.”

Based on a 35-hour work week, the new Perth-Huron living wage of $20.70 per hour was calculated using local data and considered the living expenses of a weighted average of family types including a family of four, a single mother supporting a seven-year-old child and a single adult, once government transfers and deductions were considered. Everyday expenses in the calculation included food, housing, utilities, clothing, childcare and transportation.

For more information about Perth-Huron’s living wage, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.

CONSERVATION DINNER RAFFLE

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) is selling 50-50 tickets, leading up to the Conservation Dinner, in support of local community projects.

There are 1,000 tickets printed and the cash prize could be as high as $5,000 if all tickets are sold. Tickets are $10 each. The draw is to be held during the 33rd Conservation Dinner, on Thursday, Apr. 20, at 9 p.m. at South Huron Recreation Centre in Exeter.

To buy tickets for the 50-50 raffle, people may phone 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610 or email info@abca.ca or visit the Ausable Bayfield Conservation office east of Exeter at 71108 Morrison Line (just south of Highway 83).

Alternatively, people can contact members of the Conservation Foundation or Dinner Committee to purchase tickets. Net proceeds from the draw are to be donated to local community projects, including the South Huron Trail.

Dave Frayne is chair of Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation and the Conservation Dinner Committee.

“Buying tickets for the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation 33rd Conservation Dinner 50-50 raffle is a convenient way for people to support needed local community projects,” he said.

To learn more visit the ABCA Foundation .

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.

Earlier this  month,  The Park House in Goderich and the Huron Fish and Game Club in Clinton became the settings 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.

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.

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.

In recognition of the United Nations World Water Day, today (March 22), we take a look at an early domestic appliance that utilized water for cleaning clothes…

ELECTRIC WASHING MACHINE

This is a closed wooden tub, electric washing machine circa 1917. The motor underneath the tub turns a wheel located beside the wringer. It activates the wringer and the agitator (rotating in one direction). The inside of the tub is corrugated. The draining hole is in the bottom but the water comes out of the side. The wringer is metal and is turned on by a switch at the side. The switch is turned on by two buttons on the side. The machine has a rubber cord with a plug that can screw into light sockets. Stamped in metal with raised letters is “Beatty Bros. Ltd. S181, Fergus and London Ont., Canada”. “Oil Every Washday, S181.” Old #: N000.3313

TASTE OF HURON

SUGAR BUSH TOUR PART OF MAPLE MANIA

PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

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.

Saturday, March 18 was the day that visitors could take an organized tour and see Maple Syrup producers in action – one of the local shanties open to visitors was Bayfield Maple located at 34787 Pavillion Road in Bluewater.

The new location for Bayfield Maple was completed in early 2022. It is a family run, generational business owned by Thomas and Cathy Genoch and Brian and Dianne Brandon. They have 2,500 taps in two woodlots on Ontario’s West Coast.

The family offered hourly demonstrations of Maple Syrup production as well as special times for making Maple Taffy on the snow.

And Maple Syrup wasn’t the only sweet treat available at Bayfield Maple on Saturday as three local vendors were also on site offering their specialities. Shop Bike Coffee Roasters, River Road Brewing and Hops and Bayfield Bakes were there with coffee, beer, bagels and some delectable Maple Butter Tart Bars available for purchase. And keeping perfectly on theme Farm Little Pancake Mix was also for sale.

And even though March 18 dawned bitterly cold, snowy and quite windy quite a number of folks braved the weather conditions to attend. During the event, cash donations were collected for the Bayfield Area Food Bank and $100 was raised.

For full details and information on participating partners in Maple Mania visit tasteofhuron.com or for up-to-the minute details go to @tasteofhuron on Facebook or Instagram.

For a closer look at these images click on any one to open a pop up gallery.

PIXILATED

 IMAGE OF THE WEEK

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Spring Snow…By Melody Falconer-Pounder

Submit Your photo

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

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

SUBMISSIONS

Image of Melody Falconer-Pounder

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Melody Falconer-Pounder

I often marvel at just what a small world it is. Last week I used this space to tell you all about my 11 year-old grandson’s new found love of vinyl records. I had a couple of people write in with tips for locations to thrift for said records while another offered up their own collection for sale. Thank you all! He’s gone back to the city now but our hunt will continue on his next visit.

During his time here we did go to one of the thrift stores suggested by one of our readers and he found an album from 1962 of Sound Effects. Forty-five different recordings of such things as:  Cuckoo-Clocks, meowing cats, a Model-T Ford idling and New York City pedestrians. It may be his new favorite album! I wrote back to the person who had suggested this thrift store and told him about the purchase. You can imagine my surprise when the person wrote back to tell me that – that very record had been donated to the store by him! He was very pleased to learn that the recording had gone to a good home. Yep, small world indeed. – Melody

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