WALKWAY CONNECTING FLATS TO UNDER THE BRIDGE PATH CLOSER TO REALITY

The project team is excited to announce the proposed walkway connecting the Bayfield River Flats to the existing walkway under the Bayfield Bridge has received the permissions required to make it happen and now the team will turn its attention to mobilizing the public support needed to make it reality. (Photo by Jack Pal)
A new pedestrian walkway can complete the dream of Bayfield and area residents to “connect the community with nature” at the Bayfield River Flats, according to people involved with the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy (HTLTC) and Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA).
It will cost more than $50,000 to complete the walkway and the organizations say public support is needed to make the walkway a reality. The project team plans to hold a fundraising campaign between Nov. 15 and Dec. 15. Fundraising activities include a “Walkway to the Finish Line” evening to be held at the Bayfield Town Hall on Wednesday, Dec. 13 from 7-9 p.m.
The fundraising team hopes the evening will be the “Walkway to the Finish Line” in terms of raising the more than $50,000 needed for this project to extend the under-bridge pathway, from Shorthill Road, to the Bayfield River Flats, which will allow children and senior citizens and people with limited mobility to reach the riverside parkland without having to cross the busy highway.
The Bayfield River Flats is owned by HTLTC and the land trust protects it permanently as a habitat for wildlife.
“The Flats is a natural gem only a short walk from Bayfield’s Main Street,” said HTLTC Chair Max Morden. “Home to eagles and ospreys and species at risk, it’s a place where people can both appreciate and preserve nature.”
Volunteers from the BRVTA manage the property at no cost to the public.
The land trust’s Chair encourages local people to watch for announcements about the fundraising campaign and for details on the evening in support of the project. Updates, and opportunities to donate, will be posted to the web page: Bayfield River Flats.
Roger Lewington is Past Chair of HTLTC. He thanks the trail association for leading the fundraising initiative to make the walkway possible. The new walkway will connect to an existing under-the-bridge walkway at the Bayfield River Flats site. This new feature will make it safer and easier for people to reach and enjoy this special riverbank nature area.
“The trail association and the community had a dream to buy and preserve the Bayfield River Flats,” Lewington said. “The creation of the new pedestrian walkway will safely link people and nature and it will make it possible to fully realize the dream for this site.”
BRVTA led a fundraising campaign, in 2017, to purchase the Bayfield River Flats site. Community support was overwhelming, with donations of more than $70,000 to buy the property. The trail association manages the property and donated it to the land trust so the property will be preserved permanently.
The project team is excited to announce the proposed walkway has received the permissions required to make it happen and now the team will turn its attention to mobilizing the public support needed to make it reality.
Thanks to generous and visionary public donations of land and money, the HTLTC protects these important nature areas: Warner Preserve (2023) in Grand Bend, donated by Peter Warner and his late wife Esther; Heaman Tract (2019), near Ailsa Craig, donated by Janet Heaman in memory of Jack Heaman; Woodburne Farm (2018), near Goderich, donated by Ilse Elliott and her late husband William Elliott; Bayfield River Flats (2017), donated by BRVTA and community donors; and Mayhew Tract (2015), near Holmesville, donated by the Mayhew Family, in memory of Jack and Iris Mayhew.
The BRVTA was founded in 2006. The association maintains seven recreational trails in and around Bayfield. The volunteers from the association schedule more than 20 guided hikes each year. This gives residents of all ages and fitness levels the opportunity to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. BRVTA is an all-volunteer, registered non-profit organization, dedicated to supporting a healthy and environmentally conscious community.
Visit Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy and Bayfield Trails to learn more.
CALENDAR ERROR RECTIFIED WITH INSERT

The front cover of the Bayfield Lions’ Calendar for 2024 features the mural painted on the side of the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena as photographed by Jack Pal. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Lions Club calendar team goofed!
They have all been very proud of their 2024 calendar and it has proved, once again, to be very popular. However, they have discovered an error which may have an impact for those who use the calendar to track appointments and events. The month of November, instead of being for the 2024 year, unfortunately is for the 2023 year thereby putting out all the dates by one day. The Bayfield Lions Club members sincerely apologize for this error.
The good news is they have created a simple fix for the problem. They have reprinted just the actual calendar block for the month of November making sure it is for the year 2024. The insert can be picked up at The Village Bookshop or at Bayfield Convenience and Gifts. It fits directly over the block in the calendar and can be simply attached with cello tape and be totally unnoticeable. The Lions regret the inconvenience that this has caused and are confident this will not recur in the future.
Although the Lions are running out of calendars, there are still some available at The Village Bookshop, Bayfield Convenience and Gifts and Bayfield Foodland and each will have the appropriate insert.
The Lions thank everyone for their understanding and look forward to creating the 2025 calendar nine months from now.
BAYFIELD COMMUNITY CENTRE TO OFFER BEFORE AND AFTER PROGRAM IN NEW YEAR
It has become apparent that the Municipality of Bluewater is in desperate need of daycare as well as before and after school programs. It has recently been discussed at Bluewater Council the severity of the lack of accommodation.
The Bayfield Community Center, which is operated by a not for profit organization, has heard the call and has stepped up to help.
The Bayfield Community Centre is very excited to announce that, beginning in January 2024, they will be offering a Before and After School Program at the Community Centre, Monday to Friday from 6:30-8:30 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m. Bussing will be provided to these students enrolled and a form will be available to those parents once Registration is confirmed. This program will have 20 spaces in each program ( a.m. and p.m.) and parents can register on the Google form link on the Bayfield Arena Website located at the top of the page.
Both before and after school programs will incorporate the four foundations of learning: Expression, Well Being, Engagement and Belonging. Students will also be given a simple snack at both sessions.
The Bayfield Community Centre is excited to be offering this program to the residents of the Village of Bayfield and surrounding areas. With limited space they are asking parents to register quickly.
Registration in a monthly link will be sent out to parents. This Google form will be filled out each month to reserve a space in the program. Bussing for students has also been arranged for this program.
Anyone who would like more information on this program is asked to please contact Emma Campbell at Bayfieldbasp@gmail.com.
To learn more or to register for the session from Jan. 8 to Feb. 2nd please go to: Bayfield’s BASP January Registration Form
Organizers are excited to meet all of the students and families in this new program.
KNOX HOSTING AUCTION AND CONCERT
Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield is holding an auction as a church fundraiser, featuring a beautiful 60″ x 80″ quilt.
The pattern is called “Wind and Waves”. It was pieced by Judith Roy and long arm quilted by Teresa Jantzi. The quilt has a reserve bid of $400.
The auction also includes two bird houses: the Condo and the Cottage, both designed and created by Peter Nijp. Each birdhouse offers four nesting boxes, perches, a lovely tin roof and a real sense of community for feathered friends!
The items are on display in the church sanctuary along with sign-up bid sheets to record the bids. Alternatively, bids will be accepted via email to: knoxpcbayfield@gmail.com. The auction will close at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16 and winners will be notified within 24 hours.
Also, on Dec. 16 a Christmas concert will be held beginning at 2 p.m. featuring “That Other Choir” with the Martha Lawrance Harpist Ensemble. All are welcome!
All are welcome to worship services at Knox Church on Sundays at 11 a.m.
Prayer requests can be shared in several ways. Please contact the minister by emailing revlisa.knoxbayfield@icloud.com for more information.
Knox Presbyterian Church Bayfield is located at 2 Bayfield Main St. N. To learn more visit knoxbayfield.ca
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This quilt shown here on display in the sanctuary at Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield is being offered for auction with the bidding ending on Dec. 16. (Submitted photos)
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The pattern of the quilt being auctioned is called "Wind and Waves". It was pieced by Judith Roy and long arm quilted by Teresa Jantzi. The quilt has a reserve bid of $400.
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This birdhouse created by Peter Nijp is also being auctioned. Known as the "Condo" its dimensions are 19 1/2"H x 18"W x 14"D.
CRAFTING, MOVIES AND AUTHOR VISITS AT THE BAYFIELD LIBRARY

Avery Greaves will be celebrating the launch of her debut children’s chapter book series at the Bayfield Branch Library on Nov. 18.
The Bayfield Branch Library is offering a movie matinee and an author event during the month of November and plenty of crafting opportunities to look forward to in December.
In honor of Remembrance Day the library will be showing “The Trench” in the library starting at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9.
It is June 1916, the British Army is planning a big offensive in the Somme region in France. This PG-13 film follows a platoon of British soldiers as they sit in a forward trench, anxiously awaiting the order to go over the top. The movie stars Daniel Craig, Cillian Murphy, Ben Wishaw and Paul Nicholls
People who wish to view the film are asked to register by emailing bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca or phoning 519 565-2886.
An “Author Talk” is set for Saturday, Nov. 18 and will feature a local author and coincidentally a local librarian! On this day, Avery Greaves will be celebrating the launch of her debut children’s chapter book series, “The Creature Collection” (featuring The Creature Collection and “The Curious Case of the Canadian Cryptids”).
For one hour starting at 10 a.m. visitors to the library can have their burning questions about sasquatches, garden gnomes, swamp monsters, and more answered, plus they can pick up their free activity book, and have their book signed! In addition, a limited number of copies of books will also be available for purchase.
Those who wish to attend Greave’s presentation are asked to register by email or by phone at the contact information listed above.
“Homemade Holidays” will offer library guests the opportunity to create an adorable craft during the festive season. These sessions are open to all ages and the creations may prove to be the perfect gifts for some special people.
All the craft sessions are one hour and start at 5:45 p.m. What people can make and the session dates are as follows: Festive Garden Gnomes, Tuesday, Dec. 5; Puzzle Piece Wreaths, Thursday, Dec. 7; Evergreen Pine Cone Trees, Tuesday, Dec. 12; and Painted Plaster Ornament, Tuesday, Dec. 19.
Participants must register to take part in the craft sessions and can do so using the contact information provided above.
The Bayfield Library will also offer a Family Movie Night on Thursday, Dec. 14 starting at 5:45 p.m. “The Christmas Toy” is the title of this holiday classic by Jim Henson. The movie tells the story of Rugby the Tiger who was young Jaimie’s favorite toy last year. Those who wish to attend are also requested to register using the information above.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main St. North.
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This movie from 1999 is an excellent way to remember in November.
MATURE CAT SEEKS NEW FOREVER HOME
Every week the volunteers at Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) encounter seemingly unimaginable challenges in protecting the cats and kittens that come into their care – one such sweet creature is featured in this issue.
Boris is the Adopt a BFF cat of the week.
Volunteers at the Rescue describe him as a big lovable goof; a quiet kitty who loves time in a lap.
“Due to no fault of his own he is looking for a new home,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF. “Boris has lived a calm and relaxing life for the past few years after being rescued off the streets. However things have changed for his cat dad and he needs a new home for Boris. It will be an adjustment for him as he is quite settled but an environment similar to the one he has would be ideal. We want to make sure that this is indeed his forever home and that this will be his last move. If you think this big hunk of love would fit into your home and life we would like to hear from you.”
If Boris’s story pulls at the old heart strings please reach out to BFF through Facebook or email bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com.
BFF now has a Facebook group dedicated to adoptions known as “Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines ADOPTION Group” so people can view even more of the fur babies ready for homes.
In addition to accepting monetary donations, BFF now has an Amazon wish list. This list contains items they need for the day-to-day care of their cats and kittens as well as some truly “wish” items. Items are marked as to their priority, number needed, and many explain what their use will be. There is a wide variety of prices and BFF appreciates whatever you can supply. Items need not be purchased through Amazon, the list is merely a guideline.
To view the items on the list please visit: BFF Wish List.
Financial donations may also be sent via E-transfer to the email listed above or mailed to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Adoption inquiries may also be made to the BFF’s email address above.
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Due to no fault of his own Boris is looking for a new home. (Submitted photos)
COMMUNITY GARDEN SURVEY

People are invited to take a survey to determine interest in a community garden for the village. The survey will be open for the next two weeks. (Submitted photo)
Janneke Vorsteveld, of Seeds Rooted in Youth, would like to spearhead the creation of a community garden in the village.
“I’m so excited to share this dream with others,” said Vorsteveld. “I have always believed that Bayfield is the perfect place for a community garden! We have this amazing sense of community that I believe could help bring to life something beautiful for all in a time that it is becoming more needed.”
Before advancing with the idea Vorsteveld would like to gain some insight into how much interest there is in the community for such a project and she has created a survey so people can provide their feedback.
To complete the survey please visit: Community Garden.
AG SOCIETY AGM
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be held in the basement of St. Andrew’s United Church as well as virtually on ZOOM on Friday, Nov. 24.
This meeting will begin at 8 p.m. and is for the purpose of receiving reports and statements required to be placed before the Annual Meeting, electing Directors and Committee Chairs, appointing someone to review the financial records and prepare a report for the BAS, and for the transaction of such other matters as may properly be brought before the meeting.
Anyone who is a current member and wishes to attend virtually through ZOOM can email info@bayfieldfair.ca to get the link for the meeting.
In addition to receiving reports and financial statements for the period that ended Oct. 31, 2023, there will be greetings from the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) Provincial Director, Jentje Steenbeek, and OAAS awards will be presented.
BRVTA
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) would like to remind hikers that the Woodland Trail will be closed for hunting from now until Nov. 12 and again on Dec. 4th-10. People are asked to please obey the “trail closed” signs during these two weeks.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The unexplained: Harvey Elliott’s “orb” at The Albion Hotel, perhaps? (Photo by Kim Muszynski)
On the afternoon of Nov. 18, Dave Gillians, the author of “For the Love of Bayfield” will take a limited number of participants on a walk along Main Street to share some of the unexplained events that have both alarmed and baffled villagers over the years.
Starting at 3 p.m. the local historian will lead the 1.5 hour walk along Main Street starting at the Bayfield Historical Society Archives and Heritage Centre located at 20 Main Street North. The tour cost is $20 and all proceeds will go to supporting the Bayfield Historical Society. The tour is limited to 20 guests and reservations are necessary.
Those who wish to take part are asked to call 519 565-5884 to reserve a place.
YOGA
Gentle Flow Yoga is being offered at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena twice weekly.
Drop-ins are welcome to attend “Gentle Flow Yoga with Shannon” on Tuesday mornings starting at 9 a.m. The drop-in fee is $8 per person.
Practices are also being held on Fridays at 11 a.m. with a four class pass available for $40 per person. The drop-in fee for this session is $12 per person.
For more information please contact Shannon by calling 519 404-5199
Glee Sisters

“Muppet Merriment” is the title of the Children’s Song and Story Christmas Show to be presented by The Glee Sisters on Nov. 18. (Submitted photo)
For over 15 years The Glee Sisters women’s choir has enthusiastically entertained young and old alike, with an eclectic and spirited assortment of music.
In keeping with tradition, The Glee Sisters will be performing at the Bayfield Town Hall after the Santa Claus Parade in Bayfield on Saturday, Nov. 18. This year their Children’s Song and Story Christmas Show is entitled, “Muppet Merriment”, featuring puppet characters from Sesame Street. There will be two performances, the first starting at 1:30 p.m. followed by a second at 3 p.m. The show is especially geared to children between the ages of four to six years. Children will receive a special gift and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies following the performance.
Admission is free, with a donation to the Bayfield and Area Food Bank.
SALVATION ARMY CONCERT

The London Citadel Salvation Army Band is coming to town on Friday, Dec. 1st. (Photo by Jack Pal)
The Bayfield Town Hall is hosting The Salvation Army London Citadel Band for a “Magical Evening of Christmas Music” on Friday, Dec. 1st. This performance will mark their 26th appearance on the town hall stage.
Doors open at 7:30 p.m. The concert will begin at 8 p.m. This year people are invited to pay what they can with donations going to the Salvation Army.
“The Citadel Band put on a great performance of Christmas favorites that puts everyone in the holiday spirit and supports underprivileged families at Christmas,” said Diane Snell, president of the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society. “There are very few opportunities to see a large brass band perform indoors!”
LEGO CLUB

Two things that make Bayfield Lego Club great: a seemingly unlimited supply of bricks and building together as a team to design awesome creations! (Photo by Jenny Shanahan)
The next meeting of the Bayfield Lego Club will be this Saturday, Nov. 11. Families with an interest in Lego design and creativity are invited to come and further “their love for the brick”!
The club’s ninth 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. Following a time on display in the Parish Hall the projects will be broken down by volunteers to make the bricks available for use at the next meeting.
Trinity St James Anglican Church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
WREATH SALE

Volunteer John Siertsema displays one of the many beautiful wreaths he made for last year’s Wreath Sale. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be holding a Wreath Sale during the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.
The Wreath Sale will be held in the parking lot in front of St. Andrew’s United Church, located at 6 The Square, directly across from Clan Gregor Square.
The sale will run Friday, Nov. 17, 4-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 18,10 a.m. to 3 p.m., while quantities last. Prices range from $30 to $50. Payment is by cash or cheque made out to the Bayfield Agricultural Society.
Anyone wishing to place an order ahead of time to ensure availability may do so by emailing info@bayfieldfair.ca or by calling 519565-4163. Payment can be made in advance by Etransfer or by cash/cheque at pickup.
These beautiful wreaths are made of natural grape vine, cedar, spruce, white pine, juniper, and yew. Each wreath is one of a kind and will add a special warmth to any holiday décor.
All of the wreaths have been handcrafted by local volunteers using locally-sourced greens as a fundraiser for the BAS – a local organization with a 167-year history in the Bayfield community. It doesn’t get more “local” than that!
ANGLICAN CHURCH
The congregation of Trinity St. James Anglican Church invites those in the community to worship with them on Wednesdays and Sundays.
On Sunday, Nov. 5, the worship service will begin at 11:30 a.m. to ensure that those who wish can attend the Remembrance Day Service in Clan Gregor Square that begins at 10:45 a.m. The Wednesday service will be held at the usual 10:30 a.m. start time.
The next Men’s Breakfast at Trinity St. James will be held on Saturday, Nov. 4th 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 tomorrow (Nov. 2nd).
Trinity St. James Anglican church is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
FOOD BANK

Carrot cake shared by Bayfield Area Food Bank volunteers recently. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) is only able to help their clients due to the continued generosity of the community providing donations and financial support.
At this time the BAFB is requesting ingredients needed for preparing baked goods, examples of items to be donated include: flour, butter, baking soda, baking powder and chocolate chips.
“Many of our clients love to bake,” explained Claire Trepanier, president of the BAFB. “In fact, one of our clients had extra carrots this fall and very kindly made a carrot cake for our volunteers to enjoy.”
The BAFB phone number is 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 Branch Library on Main Street as well as Trinity St. James Anglican Church (outside the entrance to the Parish Hall off the parking lot). There is also a special grocery cart at Bayfield Foodland to welcome donations.
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.
GIRL GUIDE COOKIES
Chocolatey Mint Girl Guide cookies are available now from members of Bayfield Guiding!
They are selling for $6 a box and there is a limited supply so they are sure to sell quickly.
Anyone not familiar with a youth member who would like to purchase a box or two is encouraged to call Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.
Cookies are now also available at Schaefer’s Ladies Wear, located at 162 Courthouse Square in Goderich.
COFFEE & CHAT
The “Coffee & Chat” group at the Bayfield Branch Library has reconvened following a summer break. The Friends of Bayfield Library extend a warm welcome to all who would like to join in.
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 “Coffee & Chat” group will meet in the Bayfield Library Meeting Room every Tuesday from 2-3:30 p.m. The program will extend until the end of June 2024.
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!
MAH JONGG
Mah Jongg is now being played at the Bayfield Branch Library on the first and third Wednesday of the month.
Participants are asked to arrive at 12:45 p.m.
All are welcome to take part in this Rummy type game that is played with tiles instead of cards. Instructions are always available.
For more information please email Pat Lewington at plewington6@gmail.com.
GIFT OF LIGHTS TREE LIGHTING RETURNS AFTER FOUR YEARS
The Auxiliary of Clinton Public Hospital (CPH) is once again lighting the Gift of Lights tree. The tree will be lit on Friday, Nov. 24 radiating its lights throughout the holiday season.
“It has always been a sincere joy to celebrate the lighting of the lights on the hospital’s special tree. This tree lights the area across the road from the front entrance to CPH,” said Shirley Carter, chair of CPH Auxiliary Gift of Lights.
This year more lights are being added to this celebration. People can look for the new lights on CPH’s front entrance veranda.
The lights are meant to honor the many memories of individuals and families that are special to the donor or as a gift to special people in the donor’s lives. Many of those being honored in this way have been a part of the community and the hospital for a number of years. The donations that have been made over the past years have been a gift in another way as well. Those donations have assisted in the purchase of many new items and equipment that has been needed and used at CPH.
“We have been unable to hold a gathering to celebrate the light lighting since 2019. This year we are happy to announce that we are once again holding a gathering to celebrate this event starting at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 24,” said Carter.
There will be entertainment, draw prizes and the drawing of the ticket that announces the winner of the Auxiliary’s 50/50 Draw. The purchase of a ticket or tickets will help the tree to shine brightly with each light honoring someone special to the donor.
People are encouraged to drive up Shipley Street past CPH and see the glow from the shining lights as a happy reminder of how many people have been helped.
“We would really appreciate your continuing support,” said Carter.
Anyone who would like to make a donation towards the Gift of Lights for 2023 can mail a cheque to: Gift of Lights, CPH Auxiliary; 98 Shipley St., Clinton, ON, N0M 1L0. Any donation of $20 or more will be given a tax receipt.
Tickets can also be purchased from Auxiliary members or at the CPH Gift Shop as a way of continuing to support the tree lighting and the hospital and as a way to continue to honor those special people by gifting them a light.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER HOSTING KIDNEY TALK AND A TRANSPORT RIDE
- Back in the Spring, Good Neighbours of Bluewater Board members joined local residents on a trip from Zurich to Goderich with Huron Shores Area Transit. They had lunch at Tim Hortons and enjoyed shopping at the stores in the vicinity of the Walmart Plaza. They will be making this trip again on Nov. 24 and invite more people to join them! (Photo courtesy Good Neighbours of Bluewater)
Good Neighbours of Bluewater (GNOB) are hosting a couple of informative sessions during the month of November that might be of interest to area residents – plus Santa will be dropping in for a visit!
On Friday, Nov. 10, Dr. Louise Moist will be presenting on “Kidney Health” an area in which she specializes. Dr. Moist began her career as a pharmacist prior to completing her medical education at McMaster University. She is a Research Scientist and Professor of Medicine at the London Health Sciences Centre. Dr Moist has also invited Dr. William Clark to join in the presentation. Dr. Clark was the lead doctor during the E. coli outbreak in Walkerton in 2000. One and half hours have been allotted for their presentation that will begin at 2:30 p.m. A light lunch will be provided.
On Nov. 18, Santa Claus will be dropping in to GNOB from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. People are invited to come in and get a selfie with Santa, please bring a camera or a phone to do so as there will not be a professional photographer on hand.

Dr. Louise Moist
Susan Mills, coordinator of Huron Shores Area Transit (HSAT), will be the guest speaker at GNOB on Tuesday, Nov. 21 starting at 2 p.m. Mills will provide information about the HSAT system in a lead up to a very special event on Friday, Nov. 24. On that date, area residents are invited to ride the HSAT for free to Goderich and back but to qualify they must register with GNOB before boarding and indicate what stop they will be getting on to the bus from.
HSAT will pick up at the following locations and times: Sobeys in Grand Bend, noon; St Josephs, 12:12 p.m.; Zurich, 12:19 p.m.; Hensall, 12:29 p.m.; and Bayfield, 12:49 p.m. HSAT will arrive at the Walmart Plaza in Goderich at 1:12 p.m. where participants will enjoy free time until the bus departs from Goderich at 3:52 p.m.
Participants who would like to go on the transit ride are asked to register by calling 519 236-7081 or emailing gnob@hay.net or drop into the GNOB located at 28 Goshen Street North.
GNOB Board members encourage people to explore this mode of transportation even if they do not currently need to travel by bus. They ask those who wish to participate to invite a friend to come along.
For more information on any of the above events please contact the phone number or email listed above.
HPHA
An outbreak of Rhinovirus and Parainfluenza at the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) – Stratford General Hospital has been declared over by Huron Perth Public Health. The outbreak had been declared on the Inpatient Unit – Level 3 on Oct. 25.
“Upon declaring the outbreak, immediate precautions were implemented, including prevalence testing for patients,” said Erica Jensen, manager Quality, Patient Safety and Infection Control. “At this time it was discovered that patients were also testing positive for parainfluenza, another group of viruses that cause common respiratory infections.”
The Inpatient Unit – Level 3 has been reopened to admissions and transfers. Family and caregiver presence on the Unit has also been restored. Full guidelines can be found on their website at www.hpha.ca.
“While this outbreak is over, we can’t stress enough the importance of layering up your protection to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses that are circulating in Huron Perth,” added Jensen. “Keep up-to-date with your flu and COVID-19 vaccines, wear a mask when needed, wash your hands often and stay home if you are feeling sick.”
Appreciation is extended to the HPHA team and regional partners.
“Thank you for your dedication to safe and compassionate care. We’d also like to extend appreciation to our community for your support of our outbreak measures,” concluded Jensen.
SOUND OF GODERICH
The Goderich Laketown Band and the MacKay Choristers will once again unite for the “Sound of Goderich” on Sunday, Nov. 26. This musical showcase will also feature guest soloist Meghan DeJager.
DeJager will be accompanied by pianist Robert Blackwell.
The concert will begin at 3 p.m. at Lakeshore United Church located at 56 North Street in Goderich. Admission is by donation with a recommended amount being $20 per person.
EXETER SINGS
The South Huron Community Choirs are preparing to present, “Exeter Sings – Cheers to 150 Years – A Christmas Celebration” featuring the Adult Choir, Handbells Choir and premiering the “Kidschoir” with two performances coming up in early December.
The celebration kicks off in Exeter on Friday, Dec. 1st at Exeter United Church located at 42 James Street. This concert will commence at 7 p.m. A second performance will be held in Grand Bend on Sunday, Dec. 3rd at the Oakwood Resort starting at 3:30 p.m. The resort is located at 70671 Bluewater Hwy.
Katherine Marie Neeb, the director of the children’s choir will also be a featured soloist. The Adult Chor will be directed by Conductor and Artistic Director Dr. Richard Heinzle. Accompanist is Lori Danylchuk.
Tickets for both performances are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased by emailing Tickets@SouthHuronChoirs.ca or by calling Ruth at 519 235-1778 or Harry at 519 235-0759.
ALZHEIMER SOCIETY
The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth has many online education programs coming up this fall – including their annual Fall Virtual Dementia Education event. Whether you are concerned about memory changes or want to learn more about brain health and current research, start here to find out more. Register for any of the programs below on their website at: Education
The ongoing Education Hour programs are short one-hour sessions – great starting points to learn more about dementia and brain health. Topics range from Dementia Overview to Brain Health 101 or What is Mild Cognitive Impairment? The popular Dementia Basics Series – including 10 Warning Signs, Types of Dementia, Brain Changes, and Communication Tips – starts on Monday, Nov. 20 at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Join for one – or all of these sessions at: Education Hour.
For more information, contact the office at 519 482-1482 or 1-800-561-5012 or email jeanettes@alzhp.ca.
SOUTH HURON CLINIC
The South Huron Walk-in Clinic is now offering hours on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays (except for Christmas Day).
Appointments are offered from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration opens at 10:45 a.m. and closes at 1:45 p.m. or earlier if capacity is reached.
To book an appointment please call 519 235-3343.
The South Huron Walk-in Clinic is located at 23 Huron Street West in Exeter.
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.
Remember This
The Huron County Museum is home to thousands of artifacts that illustrate the history of both the rural and urban populations of the area. Space dictates what wonderful curiosities the public regularly gets to see when they visit the museum located at 110 North Street in Goderich. But where there is wifi, there is an opportunity to time-travel with over 6,700 pieces of the museum’s collection now available to view online at huroncountymuseum.pastperfectonline.com.
“Remember This” highlights items from the collection of the Huron County Museum and Historic Gaol. Items that have shaped the fabric of the county and the people who have lived here since before the county became the county in 1835 up until more recent times.
As Remembrance Day approaches we take a look at one of the World War II artifacts in the Huron County Museum’s collection…
FURLOUGH TICKET
This is a Third Class pale green pasteboard ticket for the London North Eastern Railway. It is stamped “14 MAR 45” in black ink on the reverse side, on which conditions of sale are printed. The front side has the number “1596” printed on each end in black ink. The ticket was found in the right side pocket of a Great Coat owned by Robert John Snell (featured in Issue 746 of the Bayfield Breeze).
The front of the ticket reads: “L.N.E.R. FURLOUGH; FOR CONDITIONS SEE BACK. Available for three days, including day of issue. DINSDALE to DARLINGTON (Series 1); THIRD / FUR. SIN. 3145 DARLINGTON / CLASS”.
The back of the ticket reads: “NOT TRANSFERABLE. Issued subject to the Bye Laws, Regulations, Notices and Conditions published in the Company’s Bills and Notices.”
Robert John Snell was born on Feb. 19, 1921 and lived in Goderich before moving to Londesboro, ON at age 15. Robert married Marion Ada Nethery on March 9, 1944 just hours before he flew out. He served as a Sergeant in the RCAF.
LEST WE FORGET
COMMUNITY PAUSES TO REFLECT ON SERVICE OF VETERANS PAST AND PRESENT
- PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDERA calm, mild morning greeted the generous crowd that turned out for the village’s Remembrance Day Service held on the morning of Nov. 5 in Clan Gregor Square.Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 140 as well as 3144 Canadian Army and Air Cadets both from Clinton formed a Color Party and they were joined by members of Bayfield Guiding. Members of the Bayfield and Area Fire Department, a division of Bluewater Fire Services, were also present at the ceremony wearing their dress uniform.
Ian Matthew, Bayfield Poppy coordinator, acted as Master of Ceremony at the service. He was joined by Judy Sparks who led the singing of three songs, “O’Canada”, “O God Our Help in Ages Past” and “God Save the King”. Paul Dearlove, performed The Last Post and The Reveille on the bugle while Gary Martin, provided poignant music on the bagpipes.
Peter Jeffers read the poem, “In Flanders Fields”. Branch Chaplain Rev. Nick Vandermey, offered prayers. Matthew announced the names on the Rolls of Honor for both World Wars. Bayfield’s soldiers lost in the 1914-1918 conflict were: Edward Adley, Arthur Clarke, Harvey Currie, Kenneth Currie, Russel Erwin, Victor Evens, Allen McDonald, Robert McLeod and Wilfred Toms. Those men lost in the battles of 1939-1945 were: Charles Stewart Cann, Robert David James Hopson and Richard V. Weston.
Tom and Marilyn McMahon, representing the Clinton Legion, were in charge of distributing the wreaths. Tom laid a number of these wreaths including those representing: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Afghanistan & Iraq Wars, Canadian Army and Air Cadets, and HMCS Provost. Marilyn laid the wreath for World War I & II and UN Peacekeepers. The remaining wreaths were laid by: MPP Ben Lobb, Government of Canada; Susan Brooks, representing MPP Lisa Thompson, Province of Ontario; President Shirley Chalmers, Royal Canadian Legion, Br.140; Bill Whetstone, Municipality of Bluewater; Tony Hutchins, Korean War veterans; Mario Lusse, Rhodesian Conflict veterans; Captain Jim Koene, Bayfield and Area Fire Department; Doug Willis, St. Andrew’s United Church; Jim Knox, Knox Presbyterian Church; John Pounder, Trinity St. James Anglican Church; Mike DeCorte, Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce; President Ian Matthew, Bayfield Lions Club; Sawyer, and 1st Bayfield Embers Mikah and Lyla for the Bayfield Optimist Club; President Barbara Durand, Bayfield Historical Society; Paisley, 1st Bayfield Guide on behalf of Bayfield Guiding; Ian Matthew, in memory of John L Matthew, RAF 1923-2023.
Bayfield’s services are held on the Sunday prior to Nov. 11, when musicians, clergy and legion members can avail themselves to the smaller centres.
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Bayfield’s services are held on the Sunday prior to Nov. 11, when musicians, clergy and legion members can avail themselves to the smaller centres. (Photo by Jack Pal)
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Remembrance Day 2023 is an observance in four provinces and a statutory holiday in six provinces and three territories.
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Judy Sparks led the singing while Peter Jeffers (right) read the poem, “In Flanders Fields”.
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Tom and Marilyn McMahon, representing the Clinton Legion, were in charge of distributing the wreaths.
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Tom McMahon laid a number of wreaths including those representing: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Afghanistan & Iraq Wars, Canadian Army and Air Cadets, and HMCS Provost.
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A calm, mild morning greeted the generous crowd that turned out for the village’s Remembrance Day Service held on the morning of Nov. 5 in Clan Gregor Square.
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Mikah and Layla from 1st Bayfield Embers and Sawyer laid a wreath on behalf of the Optimist Club of Bayfield. (Photo by John Pounder)
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Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 140 from Clinton formed a Color Party. (Photo by Jack Pal)
SUBMISSIONS

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Melody Falconer-Pounder

Corry James (Submitted photo)
Back in February I shared in this space the story of Corry James – at that time he had been given a terminal cancer diagnosis and in an effort to keep positive was welcoming people to send him pictures striking a Rock ‘N Roll Horns On pose. (Submissions Issue 710 Week 8)
Corry had the most determined positive spirit of anyone I have had the pleasure of knowing. Each day he was given here on earth he counted as a blessing and he made the best of them all whether it was simply feeding chipmunks or drinking in a Lake Huron sunset. He loved his family with his whole soul. He made friends easily and he treasured them all. He loved and appreciated life fiercely.
Watching his journey unfold I have learned from his grace. Always tell people you love them. Always tell them what you appreciate about them. Do it now – don’t wait to eulogize them when they are gone. I have always been a little shy about sharing such thoughts but it is something I am trying to embrace.
When it comes right down to it we all want to be loved and appreciated. We all want to be remembered. Corry left an indelible mark on the hearts of many – including mine.
Corry died on Oct. 31st. I’d like to think that the remarkable display of thundersnow that followed later that day was an indicator that he is now at peace.
So one last time for Corry I will sign off here with “Horns On Bayfield!” – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.