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The Bayfield BreezeIssue 720 Week 18 Vol 14

April 26, 2023

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Issue 720 Week 18 Vol 14
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RECORD BREAKING DONATIONS COLLECTED AT BAYFIELD HOME AND LEISURE SHOW

PHOTOS BY JACK PAL

The Bayfield Lions Club hosted their annual Home and Leisure Show this past weekend. Although there was no charge for admission, attendees were asked to bring a donation of food or cash to the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB). And boy, did they ever! Record attendance brought record donations, to the surprise and delight of all the volunteers who work with and for the BAFB.

On Monday morning, members of the Lions met with BAFB volunteers in order to present them with a cheque, and walk eight full Foodland shopping carts over to Trinity St. James Anglican Church, home of the BAFB.

Treasurer Karen Smith, acting on behalf of BAFB President Claire Trepanier, accepted a cheque from Lions Treasurer Dave Nearingburg for a whopping $3,016.50! Stay tuned to find out how many pounds of food were collected.

Thank you to the community and all who contributed to make this the most successful event ever!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Full coverage of the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Leisure Show will be featured in next week’s issue of the Bayfield Breeze.

HURON COUNTY’S ORIGINAL BEVERAGE AND FOOD FESTIVAL FAST APPROACHING

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Huron County’s Original Brewery, Stonehouse Brewery near Varna, will once again be attending Huron County’s original beverage and food festival on May 13. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


Bayfield Arena Community Partners Association (BACPA) and the Bayfield Community Centre Team (BCCT) are gearing up for the return of Huron County’s original and largest beverage and food Festival on Saturday, May 13.

Twenty-two beverage and food vendors will be showcased at this most highly anticipated spring event returning for its seventh year at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena.

Tickets are going fast for the Festival that includes entertainment provided by three bands, “Steph & the Roadhounds”; “Side Road Reunion”; and solo, acoustic performer, Darryl Romphf.

“This is our major fundraiser and 100 percent of the proceeds go back into both youth sports and senior programs for equipment and subsidies at our facility so everyone can play and stay fit,” said Bill Whetstone, co-event chair.

The event will run from 2-9 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person and will include eight food sample tickets and eight drink tickets. Designated Driver tickets are also available for $30 and include eight food sample tickets.

Limited tickets are available now via: Eventbrite – Bayfield Beer & Food Festival or at these Bayfield Main Street locations: Shop Bike Coffee Roasters, Bayfield Brewing Company, and The Albion Hotel. They are also available at River Road Brewing and Hops, 35449 Bayfield River Road; or by calling Whetstone at 519 955-0682. For more information visit their Facebook page @ Bayfield Beer & Food Festival.

OPTIMISTS PREPARING DUCKS FOR BIG RACE

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In 2022, 1,000 rubber ducks were dropped into the river as part of the annual Bayfield Optimist Club’s Rubber Duck Race courtesy of the duck launcher created by Glen Steinson. Which ducks will cross the finish line first in 2023? (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


The ducks are preparing to go for a swim! The Club will be holding their annual Rubber Duck Race on May 21.

The race can be best viewed at the South Pier of the Bayfield Harbour – the plastic waterfowl will be set free at 1 p.m.

Tickets are now available from club members and are selling for $5 each or five chances for $20. Only 1,250 ducks will be “sold”. This event is always a sell out so to avoid disappointment at the pier don’t wait until the last minute to purchase.

This year the first six ducks that cross the finish line will win prizes. First prize is a gas barbecue valued at $450 and donated by Lake Huron Realty. Second prize is a television set, donated by Brian Coombs’ Remax Reliable Realty. It is valued at $250. Third prize is an Amazon 8”’ Fire Tablet 32 GB valued at $140 and donated by Lighthouse Money Management. Fourth prize is a $100 gift certificate for Rona donated by Meinen Custom Homes. Fifth prize is a $100 gift certificate donated for and by Gold Coast Landscaping. Sixth prize is a $50 gift certificate donated for and by The Albion Hotel.

Tickets are available from club members or by contacting John Pounder at 519 525-3830 or via email at bvi@tcc.on.ca.

Money raised from the race will go toward the Optimist Club’s many “friends of youth” projects. Licence #M800587

NEXT PROJECT BY BAYFIELD CENTRE FOR THE ARTS ABOUT TO SET SAIL

Bayfield Centre for the Arts LogoThe Bayfield Sails Project initiated by the Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) in 2022 is about to culminate in a special viewing of the completed sailboat sculptures at an event in Clan Gregor Square over the weekend of May 13-14.

The Bayfield Sails Project is intended to honor the marine history of Bayfield and Lake Huron. The completed project consists of six sailboat sculptures, made of iron and powder coated, with “sails” made of lexan. Late last year the call was put out for artists to apply to be chosen to hand paint the sails and now it is time to preview the results.

“People are invited to come out to see the six fabulous iron sailboat sculptures before they are installed on municipal land in Bayfield this spring,” said Leslee Squirrell, president of the BCA.

The sailboats were designed and handmade by blacksmith Jim Wallace of Sharpes Creek Forge near Goderich. The design of the hulls replicates specific boats such as the locally renowned “Helen McLeod” as well as the sailboats manufactured by Bayfield Boat Works.

Those who attend the event will also have an opportunity to meet all six of the artists chosen to paint a unique “sail” for the sailboats.

The sailboats will be a permanent installation within the village changing “sails” every one to two years. Each boat will sport a  QR code that will take the viewer to a page of local historical information as well as information about the artist and their website if they have one.

The sailboats will be displayed under a tent in Clan Gregor Square from Noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The artists involved in the project will be present on Saturday and an opening ceremony with remarks by dignitaries will be held at 12:30 p.m. On Sunday visitors to the installation will not only get to see the works but pick up a free potted Petunia or Geranium courtesy of the BCA in recognition of it being Mother’s Day. There are a limited number of plants available so visitors are encouraged to come early.

“It is hoped that this project will  bring further vitality and prosperity to this unique and beautiful village and public marina,” concluded Squirrell.

MURDER MYSTERY THRILLER SET IN SOUTH KOREA NEXT IN INDIE FILM SERIES

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It is with great anticipation that Bayfield Indie Film Series prepares to launch their second film of the spring series on Wednesday, May 10 at the Bayfield Town Hall. For this offering, they have chosen “Decision to Leave”, a murder-mystery thriller set in South Korea, directed, produced and written by Park Chan-wook.

Decision to Leave is described as a seductively twisted, romantic, Hitchcockian thriller. Detective Hae-joon investigates a man’s mysterious death. Did he jump or was he pushed from the mountain peak? As the investigation continues, he begins to suspect the victim’s wife. This is a timeless story of romantic obsession, a detective who falls for his suspect and is trapped in a web of deception and desire.

Decision to Leave is one of the best films of the year according to The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Indiewire, The Guardian, and former U.S. President, Barack Obama! Accolades include Best Director Award from Cannes, Best Actress and Best Film Award at Blue Dragon and nominated for the prestigious Best Motion Picture in Non-English category at the Golden Globe Awards, to name a few. Please note that this film is in Korean with English subtitles.

There are only a few Bayfield Indie Film Series – Season One Passes available to purchase for the two remaining films. Cost is $20. Please contact bayfieldfilms@gmail.com to purchase and pick up at the door. If there are seats remaining, single tickets may be purchased at the door for $12.

TIME TO LAUNCH A NEW YACHT CLUB SEASON

Time to launch…a new racing season for the Bayfield Yacht Club (BYC)!

Generous donors have purchased four new marks for a course out in the lake.  The layout of these marks will allow the BYC to set eight different courses with a combination of windward, leeward and triangle courses, with lengths set to match weather conditions.

Races are planned for every Sunday as well as more sociable and fun Wednesday Night Beer Can Racing. And the William Given Memorial Race will be held on Saturday, Aug. 19  followed by the traditional bash!

There is also potential for some cruise weekends for both power and sail  to Grand Bend, Goderich and Sanilac based on interest.

To support these great events the BYC needs volunteers! They are looking for people to fill roles on the following committees: Race, Social and Membership as well as the BYC Board. The BYC is currently looking for input from people with regards to what they would like to see from their yacht club and how they want to participate.

Member dues are due May 1st. The fee is $100. This is used to cover the costs of the Ontario Sailing Association membership that gives the BYC members OSA status and insurance for BYC sponsored events.

For more information please email: bayfieldyc@gmail.com.

PREPARATIONS FOR GENERATIONS-OLD EVENT BEGINS

The date is set for the annual Rummage Sale and Silent Auction presented by the Pioneer Park Association. People are invited to mark their calendars for Friday, July 14.

The annual Rummage Sale is the largest revenue generating event to support and maintain Pioneer Park, a vibrant, healthy and open park space for all to enjoy. This is a generations-old community event, now in its 74th year, that pulls the village together and kicks off the summer season.

This year’s hardworking Team Rummage organizers are Catherine Tillmann, Dianne Jewitt, Sharon Craig, Danuta Wyant, Trudy Book, Lynn Whaley, Jayne Dietrich and Carole Stinson. Additional volunteers are encouraged! For more information on ways people can help, please send an email to info@pioneerpark.ca with ‘Volunteer’ in the subject line.

Every year the Rummage Sale relies on the generosity of the community to donate their no longer needed, clean, complete and in good working order items for the sale. Donation drop-off dates are June 10, June 17 and June 24 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Quonset Hut on Hwy 21, just north of Bayfield.

The following items are always very popular and in great demand: indoor and outdoor furniture (nothing too heavy); tables and chairs; linens, towels, draperies; antiques and collectibles; housewares including, dishes, glasses, pots and pans; baskets; purses and jewellery; garden decor and garden tools; tools of all sorts; decorative items including figurines, vases, framed mirrors and art prints; festive decorations; adult and children’s games, books and puzzles; DVD’s, record albums and stereo equipment; floor lamps and table lamps; sporting goods are very popular; all recreational items including bicycles; home electronics and small appliances.

The following items are not acceptable: mattresses of any size; sofas and sofa beds along with any large, heavy furniture; children’s furniture, strollers, damaged or soiled toys; no large appliances or televisions; monitors, printers or fax machines; Christmas trees, strings of lights; clothing, shoes or hats; Tupperware, plastic utensils, water bottles, lone coffee mugs; plastic garden pots; life jackets or bike helmets; window blinds with pull strings; unframed mirrors and no used candles.

HIKE FOR HOSPICE TO BE HELD IN VARNA

Huron Hospice will recognize hiking leader June Robinson at their much-anticipated Hike for Huron Hospice.  June passed away late in 2022 and the board, staff and volunteers unanimously agreed to recognize her impact by renaming the event, The June Robinson Memorial Hike for Huron Hospice. Every year June recruited her family to raise money for the Hospice and hike with her.

According to her granddaughters Heather and Patricia, “The Hike was more about bringing family and friends together. Reaching out to support Huron Hospice on the Hike helped to reinforce the connections that Grams cherished with her family and her community. It brought people together.”

Heather went on to say, “It was not so much about the fundraising, but she did keep track of how much money had been pledged. I think secretly she liked being the top fundraiser every year.”

The June Robinson Memorial Hike will take place Sunday, May 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Stanley Community Centre in Varna. The hike will start with a light warm up. After the hike everyone is welcome to join in a barbecue.

“We will walk in person again this year, however, if people are still hesitant, they can continue to hike where they like,” said Christopher Walker, manager of Fund Development “In person or remotely, we want people to spend time with family and to remember June and other loved ones for whom they may be walking. Please join us at the Stanley Community Centre located at 38572 Mill Road Varna and swap stories while enjoying the BBQ. Summer starts with the June Robinson Memorial Hike for Huron Hospice.”

“The hike is an important Huron Hospice fundraising event,” said Willy Van Klooster, hiker and Executive director. “The money raised stays in Huron County and is used to pay for end-of-life care for families. Hikers help pay for day-to-day essential services like nursing, home hospice, and loss and grief support for children, youth and adults. As you can see, donor support is critical to bringing our support to Huron County families.

“This year we are also celebrating the construction of new bedrooms at Huron Hospice. The money is in the bank and the drawings are complete. We are just waiting on final government approval so we can put the shovels in the ground. When you join us at the Hike, you can check out the drawings and plans.”

People can form teams of family members or friends to hike and obtain pledges to support the Hospice. Children could ask parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles to pledge their support by email, mail, or phone.

“Teams can have fun and challenge each other. There will be prizes for the team and the individual who raises the most money,” said Walker.

To register for the hike, go to the Huron Hospice website June Robinson Hike for Huron Hospice.  Just follow the link to pledge or create a team. Please send the link to family, friends and contacts and ask them to join.

For further information, contact: Christopher Walker, manager Fund Development via email at chris.walker@huronhospice.ca or by calling 519 525-7352.

FOSTER HOMES NEEDED TO ASSIST WITH KITTEN SEASON

Kitten season has officially arrived at Bayfield Forgotten Felines and once again volunteers are witnessing babies having babies!

“Not unlike all Rescues we are bursting at the seams with both pregnant young females, and ones who have just given birth, “ said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.  “As of today we already have 22 kittens ranging in age from one to four weeks old. We currently have three very pregnant Mamas in foster care waiting to deliver.  And I receive numerous calls about countless, possibly pregnant cats, needing to come into safety for proper nutrition, while awaiting the birth of their babies.”

According to Penhale, if you see a pregnant cat or one shows up that you feel has had kittens, please continue to feed them as they need the extra nutrition to help these babies have a good start.

“They may eventually bring their babies to you if they are feeding them,” said Penhale.

Last year BFF had over 60 kittens that needed to be vetted, neutered or spayed, and then rehomed.

“We are hoping our numbers will be lower this year but we are fairly certain they will not be,” said Penhale. “Anyone having a spare room, or a warm shed somewhere, where they would be willing to foster an expecting Mama or Mama with kittens is encouraged to give it careful consideration and reach out to us please.”

To learn more please contact BFF via email at bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com. The adoption fee is now $250. 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) would like to thank the members and the non-members for attending their, first of its kind, Annual Meeting.

The meeting was well attended and guests were informed about municipal spending during a talk with Municipality of Bluewater Councilor Bill Whetstone. They also learned about all the happenings within the Chamber as they work to support their member businesses and finally heard about how to make the most from social media to enhance and grow their own businesses from the BACC’s Social Media Manager Wendy Vasco.  The meeting was capped off with amazing food and fun as the host business Olio treated attendees to an amazing selection of hors d’oeuvres made to ensure all in attendance could find the perfect something to enjoy.  Those who attended thank Olio for hosting a wonderful event.

The Annual Report and By-Laws are available upon request so if anyone is interested in those they should not hesitate to reach out at the email provided below.

The new Board of Directors as accepted by the membership are: President, Micheline Notte; Past President, Leanne Kavanagh; Vice President, Mike DeCorte; Secretary/Treasurer, Terri Louch; and Members at Large: Joanne Oliver, Morgan Tyler, Gaby Pajero, Amy Saunders, Bernie Keim and Mary Couturier. This team looks forward to serving the community of businesses for the 2023-24 year.

A reminder that BACC dues were due Apr. 1st. Non-chamber members are invited to reach out to see what the BACC offers including an incredible upcoming advertising opportunity for members only. Please request information at villageofbayfield@gmail.com.

COUNCILOR’S CORNER

Bayfield Ward Councilor Bill Whetstone will host his next Councilor’s Corner on May 2 at the Bayfield Community Centre.

The public is invited to attend the session that will run from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Topics of interest will be: changes to the parking bylaw and speed reduction, as well as updates on both short term rentals and the village’s Main Street Revitalization project.

TRINITY ST JAMES GARDEN

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Trinity St James is looking for some community assistance in maintaining their beautiful gardens this season. This would be the perfect opportunity for people with an interest in gardening to both learn and share skills in horticulture. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)


Nestled behind the oldest Anglican Church building in Huron County can be found one of Bayfield’s best kept secrets – a garden that its caretakers would love to share with the community both as a tranquil place to meditate, sit and read, or enjoy lunch, as well as a place to learn new skills and take pleasure in the beauty of gardening.

Trinity St. James Anglican Church is in need of some volunteer gardeners to help with the upkeep of this most serene and beautiful spot.

“No gardening experience is needed,” said Barb Graham Scott, representing  Trinity St James. “We are asking if people would be willing to spare one hour a week to help with weeding and watering? You can choose to look after your own little spot on your own time or meet with others to garden together.”

Trinity St. James garden volunteers will begin to meet regularly starting on Wednesday, Apr. 26 starting at 8:30 a.m. and weekly thereafter.

Please call Hattie Alcock at 519 955-6033 or Barb Graham Scott at 519 318-0708 for more information.

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

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 May 11.

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. This month’s topic will be “Displaying Your Poetry”.

All are welcome and encouraged to bring both their writings and a friend!

CRAFTERNOONS

Come and get creative with a variety of fun craft supplies on Tuesday afternoons at the Bayfield Branch Library.

“Crafternoons” will be held for one hour starting at 4:30 p.m.

This is a drop-in program with no registration required – just show up and start crafting!

UNITED CHURCH

On Sunday, Apr. 30, all in the community are invited to St. Andrew’s United Church for a Chili Lunch followed by the presentation of a travelogue by Rev. Joe and Beth Gray who will share their experiences and photos from their trips to Israel.

This special event will be held following the church service starting with the lunch, that will include dessert and beverage, being served at noon. Donations will be gratefully accepted.

The travelogue presentation will be held in the sanctuary at 1:30 p.m.

St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in the village.

CROQUET CLUB

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People are invited to an Open House at the Bayfield International Croquet Club (BICC) on May 6 and have a ball trying croquet!

The Open House will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the Club located at 100 David Street in the village.

BICC offers recreational, social and competitive croquet programming from April to October and everyone is welcome.

BRVTA

On May 6, all are invited to join in a Wildflower Hike at the Bannockburn Tract (74739 Bannockburn Line) starting at 10 a.m. Join Huron County Forester Dave Pullen and wildflower enthusiast Robert Tremain to learn about some of the beautiful indigenous flora in the area. This hike is free and open to the public without pre-registration. Attendees are asked to leave their dogs at home for this hike. Please note that this hike is at the Bannockburn Tract, not the Bannockburn Conservation Area.  The tract is south of Mill Road.  The walk will be about 3 km on mostly flat terrain and will last about 90 minutes.

The BRVTA will also be hosting a Birdwatching Hike on May 20 at Windmill Farm with George Ebers as the guide. The hike will begin at 8:30 a.m. and is open to BRVTA members only. There is a limit of 20 participants, and people are asked to pre-register by emailing Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com.

Anyone who would like to become a member of the BRVTA can register at Bayfield Trails Memberships. Please leave canine friends at home for this hike as well.

The schedule is subject to change, so always check for updates in the Bayfield Breeze, the BRVTA Facebook page and the Municipality of Bluewater events calendar, or contact hike co-ordinator Ralph Blasting by calling 519 525-3205 or emailing him at the address given above.

SOUND BATH SESSIONS

Harp Therapist Martha Lawrance, will be offering three Harp Therapy and Guided Imagery Spring Sound Bath Sessions on the last Thursdays in April, May and June at Trinity St. James Anglican Church in Bayfield.

These one-hour sessions will be held starting at 3:30 p.m. on  Apr. 27, May 25 and June 29 and will be dedicated to the sixth chakra (area of the third eye) in a listening and resonance space. Participants will use imagination and visualization to achieve a state of deep relaxation.

Those who attend are asked to bring a mat or chair and a pillow. The cost to participate is $20 per session or $55 for all three sessions. To learn more visit www.myharpheals.com and to register please email harpheals@gmail.com.

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

CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

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The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) will be hosting a fantastic art exhibition of images painted of Bayfield as featured in the book published in 2015 titled, “Reflections of Bayfield – Images Across the Decades” compiled by Barbara Brown and Joyce Lambert. (Submitted photo)


The “Reflections of Bayfield Exhibit” is coming to the Bayfield Town Hall, June 10-11.

The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) will be hosting a fantastic art exhibition of images painted of Bayfield as featured in the book published in 2015 titled, “Reflections of Bayfield – Images Across the Decades” compiled by Barbara Brown and Joyce Lambert.

More than 50 recognizable paintings will be displayed along with some very important paintings of Bayfield by renowned Canadian painter J.W. (Jack) McLaren.

The exhibit will run on Saturday 2-7 p.m. and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

The BCA is now looking to both owners and painters of Bayfield art to expand the exhibition.

“If you own a painting of Bayfield not in this book we would be happy to hear from you to have it included in the exhibition,” said Leslee Squirrell, president of the BCA. “If you are a painter of current Bayfield scenes we will have a section of the show dedicated to contemporary scenes of Bayfield called ‘The Tradition Continues…’ Please email us at hello@bayfieldarts.ca to enter the exhibition.”

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Thanks to a Youth Employment Grant the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) is looking to fill a summer staff position with a person between the ages of 15 to 30 to work at the Archives & Heritage Centre.

The successful applicant must be comfortable welcoming visitors and answering queries as well as opening and closing the facility.  They will be in charge of renting and securing quadricycles; selling merchandise; recording money received and balancing; and assisting with in-house projects. Direction and training will be provided.

This is an opportunity to learn local history and have first hand experience of how museums and archives work.

The position offers a 30-hour week – Wednesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. with 30 minutes for lunch. The rate of pay is $16 per hour with Mondays and Tuesdays off. The preference would be for the successful candidate to begin on June 7 but this is negotiable. The position will end on Sept. 3.

The Archives & Heritage Centre is located at 20 Main St. N. in Bayfield.

Interested persons are asked to contact bhsmembers@gmail.com.

GARDEN CLUB

Spring has sprung and the Bayfield Garden Club (BGC) is looking forward to another great gardening year and welcoming new members.

The BGC is a community group most interested in the planting, trimming and tidying of planters and beds in many of Bayfield’s public gardens.

They have garden-type activities planned for the summer months and into the Fall. They are always looking forward to sharing their gardening stories, best practices and suggestions for future meetings or garden tours. Anyone who has an interest in gardening, flowers, vegetables or the environment may want to consider becoming a Garden Club member. BGC members are eligible for discounts at many of the local garden centres.

Memberships can be purchased here for $10. Anyone wishing to purchase a membership can contact Nancy Kale at 519 565-4018, Anny Johnston at 519 565-2955 or Lori Hill at 519 565-5278.

People are also invited to please mark on their calendars May 13 as this is the date for the annual Plant Sale that the BGC will be holding in Clan Gregor Square from 9-10:30 a.m. There will be a wide variety of perennials, annuals, shrubs, trees and herbs for sale. Anyone who is interested in donating plants to the BGC Plant Sale is asked to please contact Lori Hill at the number listed above for more information.

WALK FOR DOG GUIDES

The Lions of Bayfield are holding one of their favorite events again this year, “The Walk for Dog Guides”.

In 1999 the average cost per dog to raise and fully train, was $6,000.   It is now approximately $35,000.  The program has expanded to include  a multitude of services, these are: Canine Vision, Hearing, Service, Seizure Response, Autism Assistance, Diabetic Alert and Facility Support.

“We appreciate the support of the community and hope that you will continue to do so to help us meet this growing need.  All proceeds go directly to the Dog Guides,” said Karen Scott, chair of the Walk for Dog Guides Committee, and second vice-president of the Bayfield Lions Club. “Last year, our small village was number 20 in all of Canada for the amount of money raised.  Way to go all!  Let’s work on achieving at least that this year.”

People are invited to get their pledge forms, or pledge a walker, and bring their dogs on Sunday, June 4th to Clan Gregor Square. Registration will take place at 9:30 a.m. and the walk will start at 10 a.m.

For further information and pledge forms please contact Karen Scott at karendscott@eastlink.ca or 226 441-2042.

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, May 6 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 May 4 .

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

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 December 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.  Early bird draws will take place at the end of each month, and all entries will be entered into a grand prize draw 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; Bayfield booklets from the Bayfield Historical Society; and swag from the Virtual High School & Bruce Power.

All completed entries must be returned to the Bayfield Branch or emailed to bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca by the end of 2023.

GIRL GUIDE COOKIES

Forget Robins, Tundra Swans and Maple Syrup, nothing signals spring quite like Classic Chocolate and Vanilla Cream Sandwich Cookies! That’s right, Girl Guide cookie season has arrived.

Members of Bayfield Guiding are currently selling these cookies for $6 a box.

Profits from this campaign will go toward helping with the cost of bussing for an overnight adventure at the Toronto Zoo’s Serengeti Bush Camp. Anyone who would like to make a purchase is asked to contact Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.

HURON HONOUR BAND ADDING JAZZ ENSEMBLE

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The Huron Honour Band shown here in the summer of 2022 performing in Exeter, ON in support of the South Huron Connection Centre. (Submitted photo)


The region’s most promising musicians are coming together this summer to learn and perform in towns across Huron County.

Started in the summer of 2022, the Huron Honour Band is Huron County’s premier youth concert band showcasing Huron County youth up to the age of 18.

“It is exciting to have the opportunity to play into the summer,” said Spencer tenHag, a music student at Central Huron Secondary School. “The Honour band has been a great place for me to do something unique in a fun environment.”

As the Huron Honour Band enters its third performance season, the group is also starting a Jazz ensemble.  The Huron Honour Jazz Band will showcase rock, jazz, swing, blues and funk music in a fully inclusive setting. Special guest conductors will work with the groups in order to develop skills including playing an instrument and reading music.

“We know the importance of music making and creativity to all young people, which is the reason for the creation of the Honour Band last year,” said Aaron Neeb, the director of the Honour Concert and Honour Jazz Band. “Our goal is to be as inclusive as possible so that all youth have an opportunity to learn performance skills but also collaborative skills across numerous ages, backgrounds and skill levels.”

The opportunity is free for youth and rehearsals begin in June. If a student doesn’t have an instrument, one can be provided for free for the summer. Young musicians who play flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, bass, drums, guitar or piano are encouraged to contact huronhonourband@gmail.com.

DR. MICHAEL BORRIE TO SHARE RESEARCH INTO MEMORY AND AGING BRAIN

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Dr. Michael Borrie (Submitted photo)


The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth has a new line up of spring online Education Programs, included among these programs is a special presentation by Dr. Michael Borrie on Tuesday, May 2nd.

Dr. Borrie is the Medical Director of the Aging Brain and Clinic and the Cognitive Clinical Research Group, at the Parkwood Institute in London, ON.

He will share insights from recent research efforts focusing on memory and the aging brain. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation – participants are asked to please bring their questions! This one-hour program is being offered over ZOOM starting at 2 p.m. People can pre-register at Dr. Borrie 2023.

Whether people are concerned about memory changes or want to learn more about brain health and current research, the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth is the place to start to find out more.

People can register for the following programs on their website at: Education Hour.

The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth’s popular Dementia Basics Series –  including 10 Warning Signs, Types of Dementia, Brain Changes, and Communication Tips will take place on Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. throughout the month of  May.

New to the lineup of programs is Demystifying Memory Clinics. On May 18 and 25 at 1:30 p.m., participants can join Christy Bannerman to find out what happens at a Memory Clinic and the steps involved in getting a diagnosis.

Their online “Let’s Talk About…”  sessions are back for another year! Each week they will focus on a topic people have requested. These one-hour sessions will take place on Tuesday afternoons starting at 1:30 p.m. from June 20 to July 18. This year’s selected topics are: Women and Alzheimer’s disease; Sleep and Brain Health; Nutrition and Dementia; Incontinence; Sensory Changes and Dementia.

For more information, contact the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth office by calling 519 482-1482 or 1-800-561-5012 or by emailing jeanettes@alzhp.ca.

COUNTY EMPLOYERS INVITED TO LEARN ABOUT HIRING INTERNATIONAL WORKERS

Employers from across Huron County who are experiencing labor shortages are invited to learn about hiring international workers during an upcoming three-hour event.

Hiring International Workers – Huron County is organized by Huron County Immigration Partnership, Huron Chamber of Commerce – Goderich, Central and North Huron; Community Futures Huron and WILL Employment Solutions to help local employers explore what’s involved in hiring international workers.

“Immigration addresses labor shortages in key sectors from health care to technology, sciences to social services, manufacturing to education,” said Mark Nonkes, Local Immigration Partnership manager, Huron County Economic Development.

Employers will be introduced to the Newcomer Talent Retention Network (NTRN) and will learn how to gain access to consultants at no cost. Consultants specialize in: immigration law; intercultural communication; diversity, equity and inclusion in workplaces; relocating international staff to communities; inclusive onboarding strategies; and human resource solutions for international staff.

Some of these consultants will be on site and available during a “speed dating” session during the event.

“We’re pleased to partner with WILL Employment Solutions, which is embarking on this project that brings together strong partnerships and expertise to support employers with their retention strategies,” Nonkes said.

Employers will also get a chance to complete a needs assessment, the first step to building a customized action plan to bring and retain internationally educated and trained workers to business.

“The Chamber is helping to promote this event to employers because we see a diversified labor force as an important key to success in our rural community,” said Heather Boa, Operations manager, Huron Chamber of Commerce – Goderich, Central and North Huron.

NTRN is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

This event takes place Thursday, May 25 from noon to 3 p.m. at the White Carnation, Holmesville. Complimentary light lunch provided. For more information and to register, please visit: Hiring International Workers – Huron County. 

UNITED WAY

United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is proud to announce its support of a new Goderich Huron YMCA initiative called the Goderich Youth Collective leadership program.

“After our local volunteers identified youth isolation as a significant concern, we’re excited to help fund this new program,” said UWPH Director of Governance and Community Impact, Megan Partridge. “As an organization, UWPH believes in building stronger communities and part of that is getting youth engaged in the place they live. The Goderich Youth Collective provides a leadership development opportunity for young people who might not otherwise have a chance to get involved in community leadership.”

“We are grateful to receive this funding from UWPH to support youth in Goderich,” said Andrew Lockie, CEO, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario. “The chance to access and develop skills focused on mental and physical health will be life-changing for many youths in the community.”

A YMCA-run program funded by UWPH, the 16-week Goderich Youth Collective leadership program focuses on healthy and active living, both mental and physical. Participants will learn new skills, discover community resources, and make new friends in a safe and welcoming environment. A YMCA membership is not required and enrollment is free. The first launch aims to engage Goderich area youth, with later offerings expanding to youth across Huron. Space is limited. Contact program coordinator Belinda Skuta at belinda.skuta@swo.ymca.ca for more information and to apply. The application deadline is Sunday, Apr. 30.

ALZHEIMER SOCIETY

The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth will be offering their Memory and Aging Program again this May at the Mackay Centre in Goderich. The Memory and Aging Program is designed for anyone experiencing normal age-related changes in memory or anyone interested in learning more about this topic.

The Memory and Aging Program describes what memory is, how it changes with age, and when to be concerned. Brain healthy lifestyle choices and practical memory strategies are reviewed and practiced, improving a participant’s ability to remember those everyday things – including those pesky names and things people intend to do! Equally important, the Memory and Aging Program is enjoyable and seeks to build confidence in one’s own memory ability.

The Memory and Aging Program consists of four sessions and will be held on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon from May 10 through to May 31. There is a fee of $25, which covers the cost of the program workbook and materials. All sessions take place at the MacKay Centre for Seniors, located at 10 Nelson St E in Goderich.

Pre-registration is required for this program. Please contact Jeanette at the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth by calling 519 482-1482 or 519271-1910 or via email at: jeanettes@alzhp.ca.

SOUTH HURON CHOIR

The South Huron Community Choir will be presenting two performances of “What a Wonderful World”, a concert featuring an orchestra, soloists and handbells, later this week.

The choir is led by Artistic Director Dr. Richard Heinzle and accompanist Lori Danylchuk.

Performance will be given on Friday, Apr. 28 at Exeter United Church, 42 James Street, and on Saturday, Apr. 29 at Huron Shores United Church, 25 Main Street in Grand Bend. Both concerts begin at 7 p.m.

Advance tickets are $25 and $30 at the door. For tickets please call Ruth at 519 235-1778 or Harry at 519 235-0759 or email southhuronchoirs@gmail.com.

To learn more about the choir, an outreach program of Exeter United Church, as well as the upcoming concerts, please visit www.southhuronchoirs.com.

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.

The Park House in Goderich and the Huron Fish and Game Club in Clinton are now 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.

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.

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.

This week, through the use of museum artifacts, we look back on a building of historic significance that stood for nearly a century as the seat of government before it was razed by fire in 1954 – the first Huron County Courthouse at Goderich, ON. 

FIRST COURTHOUSE

According to Canada’s Historic Places, the original courthouse was “an Italianate brick building of imposing scale, massing and elegance, that served as a landmark and important symbol for the town and county administration” before it was destroyed by fire.  By 1957 it had been replaced by a modern Art Deco-inspired courthouse that itself suffered significant damage when an F-3 tornado swept through the heart of the town in August of 2011. It has since been restored – but that’s a story for perhaps another issue!

This is an architectural drawing of the Goderich Courthouse by Mellish, Morrell & Russell, builders from Brantford, ON from 1854. The drawing is labelled as Front Elevation No. 1.

PAINTING OF FIRE SCENE

This is a painting of the Courthouse fire in 1954. Colors used to depict the scene were vivid red, orange, yellow, blue and purple. The painting was created by Iona Hind, the founder of the Goderich Art Club.

Notes indicate that there was a plaque on the original frame that read: “Burning of the Huron County Courthouse, Goderich. Painted by Mrs. Iona Hind. May 1954. This Historic landmark completed in 1856 was razed by fire Friday night, Feb. 26, 1954. Wood salvaged from the ruins was used in the framing of this oil painting.”

TEA CUP

This is a souvenir pink tea cup with gold around the rim and down the centre of the handle. The underside and inside are white. The cup features a transfer of the courthouse, identified as, “Huron County Courthouse Goderich”. The transfer is rimmed in gold. There is also a matching pink saucer.

PITCHER

This is a small cream pitcher with a photograph of the old Huron County Courthouse on the front. The top of the pitcher has pink trim with gold filigree embellishments.

The pitcher has no maker’s mark, but, based on the picture of the courthouse, it is possibly dated circa 1910.

EARTH DAY

BLUE BAYFIELD, GLEE SISTERS AND BAYFIELD UKULELE SOCIETY CELEBRATE THE PLANET

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Eighty people attended the Earth Day Celebration held at St. Andrew's United Church on the afternoon of Apr. 22 with performances provided by the Glee Sisters and the Bayfield Ukulele Society among others.

PHOTOS BY DENNIS PAL

Mother nature bats last.  The Earth Day Jamboree for children event scheduled for Pioneer Park on Earth Day ’23 was made well aware of this.  The good news is the event will take place on Saturday, May 13 when hopefully the weather is better.

As unfortunate as that was, all other planned activities went on as scheduled. The morning hike on the Woodland Trail attracted a hardy body of nature enthusiasts that enjoyed hearing the knowledge on watersheds imparted by Michele Martin. (Look for photos from this event in an upcoming issue of the Bayfield Breeze.)

Helen Varekamp was impressed by the turnout for village cleanup. Despite the drizzle, a large group of citizens blanketed the village streets collecting debris that accumulated over the winter. Nancy Moore, a village resident, who anticipated the usual coffee cups and plastic bags was shocked at the volume of cigarette butts tramped into walkways.

“Forgotten by smokers it seems, is that cigarette butts contain plastic, that ultimately impacts water quality in addition to being a blight on the landscape,” said Ray Letheren, representing Blue Bayfield. (Again, look for photos from this event in an upcoming issue of the Bayfield Breeze.)

Bayfield’s Earth Day activities culminated with a special presentation and concert at St. Andrew’s United Church on the afternoon of Apr. 22.

Roz Elliott introduced guest speaker Alexandra Ho.  She is a climate change major at the University of Waterloo and held the attention of the 80 attendees as she shared her experience at the COP27 in Egypt. She walked those in attendance through some effective strategies for dealing with climate change in home and community.

According to Letheren, “She introduced the participants to the “word cloud”, an interactive program wherein the audience could share their concerns about climate change. Through the use of this program Bayfield residents have a picture of what concerns us most about climate change.  The larger the size of the word in the cloud, the greater our concern. In Bayfield for example, erosion and pollution top the list of concerns.”

The theme for the afternoon was taken from the words of Chief Seattle, “The earth does not belong to us, we belong to the Earth.”  It emphasizes that all life on the planet is connected.  These words were put to music and sung by the Glee Sisters, under the leadership of Lisa Stewart, to conclude the program. The land recognition was offered by Jordan George of the Kettle Point First Nations Community. He accompanied his words with a song and drum.  Nancy Moore and the Bayfield Ukulele Society performed “Feeling Groovy” and “Under the Boardwalk”, taking many down memory-lane. Both groups joined melodically with, “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing”.

Those present were introduced to a new duet.  Mary McGoldrick on piano and Danuta Wyant on cello opened the musical portion of the day, with two pieces, “Ashoken Farewell” and “Here Comes the Sun”. It worked! As they played this last piece the sun shone through the windows of St Andrew’s Church.

Attendees were presented with Pine tree and Purple Coneflower seeds and growing pods at the end of the performance. Some lucky folks received door prizes donated by Helen Varekamp and Paula Letheren.

Earlier in the week, Blue Bayfield distributed over 1,000 paper bags to the business community bearing the logo, Plastic Free Bayfield.

Blue Bayfield expresses its gratitude to the individuals and organizations that supported Earth Day ’23.

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 from a Puddle… By Dennis Pal

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

A few people have commented that they missed Bayfield Guiding at the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Leisure Show on the weekend as we have been a fixture there for many years selling our cookies to visitors. We have been very grateful for the opportunity to do so.

Unfortunately when the date of the show was moved up by one week to allow for the opportunity of an even bigger and better show it conflicted with Bayfield Guiding’s annual Spring camp weekend at Camp Klahanie. Now the camp is an extremely popular spot for youth to camp and we have to set our dates a year in advance so I wasn’t able to make a change and that accounted for our absence.

Anyone who would still like to purchase cookies from us is welcome to reach out to me via email at melody.pounder@gmail.com and I will endeavor to ensure delivery! Thanks as always to our community and Lions for your support of Bayfield Guiding – Brown Owl Melody

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