CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD SET TO OFFER A HALLMARK STYLE EXPERIENCE FOR GUESTS

On Saturday, Nov. 16, the excitement of Christmas in Bayfield weekend builds with the Santa Claus Parade which begins at 11 a.m. What will the guest of honor ride on this year? (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)

This is it! The 33rd Annual Christmas in Bayfield (CIB) celebration, this weekend Nov. 15-17, proudly presented by the Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC).

“We look forward to welcoming you to the hallmark style Christmas in Bayfield, a cherished family tradition spanning over 30 years in our picturesque village, drawing thousands of guests from near and far,” said Secretary-Treasurer of the BACC, Terri Louch.

The holiday season will kick off with Friday’s opening ceremonies at 7 p.m., featuring the annual “Lighting of the Lights” ceremony in Clan Gregor Square. And then on Saturday, the excitement escalates with the Santa Claus Parade which begins at 11 a.m. Live entertainment, fire pits to warm by, and complimentary carriage rides provided through the sponsorship of Diesel and Sons Electric will be available all weekend for guests to enjoy

“We are absolutely thrilled to share some exciting updates about this year’s Christmas in Bayfield! It’s shaping up to be a festive celebration you won’t want to miss!” said Louch.

This year, CIB organizers are introducing a brand-new interactive sports event that promises fun for all. Plus, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be spreading holiday cheer at Library Square on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, as well as in the Park on Friday evening.

“Visitors and residents are sure to delight in the beautifully lit gazebo in Clan Gregor Square, thanks to the generous contributions from Shopbike Coffee Roasters’ Leanne and Shaun, along with the Whetstone family. Your support makes all the difference, and we can’t thank you enough for your commitment to making this event a success,” Louch said.

In addition, organizers are excited to announce the return of hot dogs and cocoa at the Tree Lighting on Friday night, available starting at 6:30 p.m. People are invited to come early to the lighting, enjoy a hot dog and a hot chocolate, for the nominal price of $2 each, and listen to a performance by the St Annes’ Catholic Secondary School Trio from Clinton.

“A heartfelt thank you goes out to the St. Anne’s Technical Education Department for hosting this charity event (food booth) to support their students and fulfill a popular request from our guests,” said Louch.

Louch went on to say that based on feedback from many guests the CIB committee is enhancing the Sunday experience as well. “Top Shot Hockey Entertainment” will bring engaging activities like Electronic Hockey Nets, Skee Puck, and Mini Rinks, ensuring fun for all ages!

“This fully sponsored event will be the perfect place to leave your spouse and kids while you take in all the beautiful shops, getting a big start on the holiday shopping requirements. You will find these new activities laid out on a closed section of the street in front of Market 29 at the north end of the village,” explained Louch.

“Once again, Paul Hill has done a phenomenal job organizing the parade! There will be a fantastic variety of floats, and not only will we have the opportunity to donate food to the Bayfield Area Food Bank, but this year thanks to Compass Minerals, we will also be donating toys to the Salvation Army,” said Louch. “This is the perfect way to give back during this holiday season.”

For anyone who would like to donate but are busy during the parade, a red sleigh will be set up in Library Square all weekend from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for easy drop-offs.

“Finally, we would like to thank Melody Falconer-Pounder and her amazing publication for helping us share so much information with all of you,” continued Louch. “Her dedication to her craft and her community are unparalleled. She works with us to shape these articles into engaging and enlightening information that you want to read. Melody and her team bring this incredible community to life for so many people near and far. Thanks so much for all you do!”

Be sure to check out the CIB schedule of events live online at:  CIB – Schedule of Events — Village of Bayfield. Louch would like to encourage everyone to please take a moment to see all of their amazing sponsors as well.  CIB continues to offer activities at no charge to guests. This is only made possible by the amazing support the CIB Committee receives. They would like to offer many thanks to these great companies:  CIB Sponsors — Village of Bayfield.

QUESTIONS SURROUND POTENTIAL SALE OF LIONS COMMUNITY BUILDING

The Municipality of Bluewater was recently approached by potential buyers for the Bayfield Lions Club’s Community Building at 6 Municipal Road in the village. The building has been leased to the Bayfield Lions Club from Bluewater for the past 24 years. (Photo by Dianne Brandon)

A doctor and developer from Seaforth has expressed interest in purchasing the Bayfield Lions Community Building to establish a local medical clinic. In response, the Municipality of Bluewater Council formally declared the building “surplus to requirements” at a meeting held on Nov. 4.

While the concept of a new medical clinic is exciting and potentially beneficial for the village, according to Bayfield Lions Club President Ian Matthew residents have raised several questions. These include: how this building was selected; what other local sites were considered for the clinic; whether a clinic is viable given Ontario’s ongoing doctor shortage; whether Council has reviewed the proponent’s long-term business plan for the proposed clinic; how other local clinics (such as Zurich’s) might be impacted; how the municipality will find alternate accommodations and compensate the displaced Bayfield Area Food Bank and 15 community groups that currently use the building for meetings and activities; whether the Lions will be compensated for leasehold improvements made over the past 24 years; whether proceeds from the sale will be allocated to other village priorities, such as arena expansion; and, if the clinic proposal does not proceed, whether the Lions’ lease—already in the final stages of renegotiation after 18 months – will be resumed.

Bayfield Ward Councilor Bill Whetstone will hold his monthly Councilor’s Corner today (Nov. 13) at 6:30 p.m. at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena where he will answer questions regarding the proposed medical clinic and how the municipality plans to accommodate the groups and activities currently using the Lions Community Building.

Matthew commented, “If this proposal for a medical clinic is viable in the long term, it could be a real asset for the community. But there are many important questions to be answered. I encourage village residents to attend Councilor Whetstone’s briefing session this Wednesday evening.”

Since 1947, the Bayfield Lions Club has proudly served Bayfield, championing community projects, outreach, and events to strengthen local quality of life and support the needs of all residents.

The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.

WREATH SALE WEEKEND HAS ARRIVED

Each wreath is truly one of a kind and generously finished with fresh greenery. Pictured is a medium-sized $30 wreath. (Submitted photo)

It’s only two more sleeps until the start of Christmas in Bayfield weekend! And that means the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) annual fundraiser Wreath Sale is also set to begin this Friday.

The Wreath Sale will be held in the parking lot in front of St. Andrew’s United Church, directly across from Clan Gregor Square.

Sale times are Friday, Nov. 15 from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov.16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., while quantities last. In 2023, the wreaths sold out early, so anyone interested in buying a wreath is encouraged to come in good time.

Prices are $30 for a medium-sized wreath and $40 for a large-sized wreath. Payment is by cash or debit/credit. All proceeds are used to support the Bayfield Community Fair.

These beautiful wreaths are made from a variety of seasonal greens thanks to the generosity of those in the Bayfield community who donated large quantities of quality evergreen boughs. Each wreath is truly one of a kind and will add a special warmth to any holiday décor.

A limited number of greenery bundles, bows, and tails will also be available at the Wreath Sale.

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 168-year history in the Bayfield community. Proudly keeping it local!

The BAS is very grateful to the dedicated volunteers who have given hours of their time to assist in preparing the wreaths and other items that will be for sale. Without their help, the Wreath Sale fundraiser wouldn’t be possible.

St. Andrew’s United Church can be found at 6 The Square in Bayfield.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO KEEP LOCAL HISTORY ALIVE

In the spirit of “Giving Tuesday”, a global movement that encourages people to give back to their communities, the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) is launching, “Be Part of Our Living History: Let’s Keep It Alive”, a campaign to create awareness of the rich stories of Bayfield’s past.

It is hoped that this campaign will raise $1,500 in support of the organization’s work of curating, chronicling and sharing local stories now and for future generations.

The campaign kick-off will coincide with Christmas in Bayfield and will culminate on Giving Tuesday, Dec.  3. In the weeks leading up to Giving Tuesday, BHS will share interesting historical facts, personal testimonials and the importance of preserving the history of Bayfield on its website and through social media to inspire and engage with people.

“As a not-for-profit organization, we have been a cultural anchor in our community for nearly five decades. Our work goes beyond collecting and maintaining archives and artifacts and providing research. We teach about our history through events and programs that connect residents to their past, give context to our present and pave the way to a clearer future. We are grateful for the continued support and generosity of our members, volunteers and community who make our work possible,” said Barb Durand, president of the BHS.

In addition to occupying a critical place in Bayfield’s culture and heritage, of the several historical societies in Huron County, the BHS is the only one with a dedicated site. Their Archives & Heritage Centre, preserves hundreds of irreplaceable archival records, photographs, prints, textiles and objects. The BHS also serves as a tourist hub for visitors wanting to know more about the historic charm and character that makes Bayfield a popular tourist destination.

There are multiple ways of participating in the campaign. People can join as a member or renew their membership, make a tax-deductible financial contribution, volunteer their time or share their connection to Bayfield’s past. Residents can also consider creating their own  “#Giving Tuesday Facebook Fundraiser” to support the BHS.

“More than ever, it is vital to safeguard our history which has shaped who we are and where we live and helps build community and civic pride,” said Durand.

For more information and/or to participate in the campaign, visit the BHS campaign webpage: BHS Giving Tuesday.

BAYFIELD AREA FOOD BANK COLLECTING ALONG ROUTE

The Bayfield Area Food Bank is excited to be a part of the annual Christmas in Bayfield Santa Claus Parade. People are invited to bring a donation to the parade on Saturday, Nov. 16. Look out for the vintage red pickup truck making its way along the parade route, where volunteers will happily collect contributions. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)

The Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) is excited to be a part of the annual Christmas in Bayfield Santa Claus Parade, bringing holiday cheer and support to local families in need. This year, the volunteers  invite parade goers to join in making a difference by bringing a donation to the parade on Saturday, Nov. 16. People should be on the lookout for the vintage red pickup truck making its way along the parade route, where volunteers will happily collect contributions to stock the BAFB shelves for the winter season.

Items especially needed this holiday season include:

• Holiday Baking Essentials: Flour, sugar, salt, baking soda and powder, icing sugar, nuts, candies, chocolate chips, and other baking ingredients that will help families create special holiday treats.
• Pantry Staples: Peanut butter, jam, frozen fruit and vegetables, canned vegetables and fruit, family-sized juice, crackers, canned tuna, pasta sauce, and canned tomatoes.

With Christmas just around the corner, people’s generous contributions will bring joy and nourishment to community members who need it most. Volunteers are deeply grateful for the ongoing kindness and support shown by the Bayfield community.

To stay connected with the BAFB, visit their new website at www.bafb.ca, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates on their work and ways people can help.

OPTIMISTS WELCOME GUEST FROM CHILDREN’S HEALTH FOUNDATION

Jennifer Baxter (left), director of Community Relations, from the Children’s Health Foundation in London recently accepted a cheque for $500 from the President of the Bayfield Optimist Club Jeff Kish in support of the Foundation’s Childhood Cancer Program. (Submitted photo)

At the October meeting of the Optimist Club of Bayfield,  Jennifer Baxter, director of Community Relations, from the Children’s Health Foundation in London was a guest presenter.

According to Optimist President Jeff Kish, Baxter gave “a very eye opening presentation” regarding the Childhood Cancer Program at Children’s Hospital. Requesting Baxter’s attendance at the meeting was prompted by the annual efforts of Doug Vanderhaar, of Bayfield, who for the past seven years has completed the “Great Cycling Challenge” to raise money to fight childhood cancers.

“Through Jennifer’s visit our members were able to learn more about what the program offers and what our donation supports, as well as ways we can continue to support the cause,” said Kish.

Following Baxter’s presentation the club presented her with a cheque for $500 for the Foundation’s Childhood Cancer Program.

“The Optimist Club’s only mission is ‘Friend of Youth’ and we are pleased to continue supporting the efforts of the Children’s Health Foundation. If our support helps even one child get through the challenges of cancer then we have done our job,” concluded Kish.

WOODWARD AWARDED CORONATION MEDAL

Ben Woodward was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal at a ceremony held on Oct. 24. He is pictured here with Edith Dumont (left), the current Lieutenant Governor of Ontario; and Lois Mitchell, the current President of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and former Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. (Submitted photo)

Ben Woodward, a seasonal village resident, a former Bayfield Archives summer assistant and Co-op student, and a former barista at Shopbike, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal at a ceremony at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society on Oct. 24.

Woodward was nominated by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society for founding and volunteering with the Canadian Geographic Workshop Series which assists young people pursuing solutions to social, environmental and economic issues and preparing them for national and international competitions.

He is the 2017 Canadian Geographic Challenge champion and won a bronze medal in the 2018 International Geography Olympiad and a gold medal in the 2019 International Geography Olympiad, placing third in the world at the 2019 Olympiad.  Woodward was also recognized as a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society in November of 2022.

Woodward graduated in April 2024 from the University of Waterloo with a degree in Geography and Earth Sciences and is currently working on a Master’s Degree in Earth Sciences at the University of Waterloo specializing in Coastal Geomorphology.   His thesis for his bachelor’s degree focused on the Lake Huron shoreline from Grand Bend to Goderich and he is now studying the coastline bluffs as part of his Master’s Degree.

SUPER CHILL BROTHERS IN NEED OF A HOME

Daiquiri and Caesar (Submitted photo)

Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) have a number of more mature cats currently looking for homes including Daiquiri and Caesar the Adopt a BFF cats of the week.

These two handsome brothers come from BFF’s cocktail litter.

“They are both one-year old, super chill and have huge personalities. Daiquiri is a brown Tabby and Caesar is a soft gray.  Both boys are super friendly, and although they are laid-back, they do have lots of play in them. They often play tag, running back-and-forth in the shelter,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.

According to Penhale, they get along with all the cats in the shelter because they are some of the bigger boys in residence. They looked up too. The younger cats look up to them and are often seen grooming them and playing with them.

“If somebody wants a couple of cool dudes, these guys are for you,” said Penhale. “Although they may do well separately, they do seem to bring out the best in each other.”

Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about Daiquiri and Caesar and others. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Can’t adopt or foster at this time?  Consider donating for medical care and food to the email address listed above via E-transfer or mail financial donations to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.

Want to see and learn more about the felines at the shelter? This can be done easily by visiting their website! Included on this website is lots of helpful information on how people can help feral kittens. The site, www.bayfieldsforgottenfelines.ca, features a searchable index of all the cats and kittens available for adoption. This includes pictures and descriptions of their personalities. Plus there is  a new option for making donations by credit card. The website also includes online forms that automate the adoption and volunteer application processes as well as testimonials from previous adopters who found their purrfect matches at BFF.

CONCERT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CANADIAN FOODGRAINS BANK

The Huron Honour Band, formed in the summer of 2022, is Huron County’s premier youth band showcasing select Huron County youth musicians. (Submitted photos)

The Huron Honour Band and the Blyth Festival Orchestra are joining forces with the “Fields of Faith Growing Project” to host a concert fundraiser for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. The concert will take place at the Central Huron Secondary School (CHSS) gymnasium on Sunday, Nov. 17.

The concert will begin at 2 p.m.  Admission is by free-will offering.

The Huron Honour Band, formed in the summer of 2022, is Huron County’s premier youth band showcasing select Huron County youth musicians.  It rehearses at CHSS and currently offers three bands for youth – an intermediate concert band for beginners, senior concert band, and jazz band for advanced players.  Offered year round, the band performs at various charitable events and have helped raise funds for the United Way of Perth-Huron and the Tanner Steffler Foundation.  The Honour Band is excited to join forces with the Blyth Festival Orchestra this year to help earn funds for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

The Blyth Festival Orchestra, formed in the mid-1990s, is currently composed of nine musicians on violin, viola, cello, bass and flute.

The Blyth Festival Orchestra, formed in the mid-1990s, is currently composed of nine musicians on violin, viola, cello, bass and flute.  At times they have included French horn, trumpet, oboe, an extra flute and clarinet if needed.  The orchestra performs about three concerts yearly.  Depending on the concert, they have worked with bands, organists, pianists, vocal soloists, the Huron Harp school, “thatotherchoir” and the Blyth Festival Singers.  The orchestra welcomes new players – a reasonable proficiency in playing an instrument is helpful; being able to read music is a must!  This year, in addition to the Nov. 17 concert, they will provide music for two Festivals of Lessons and Carols for Christmas – Trinity Anglican Church in Blyth on the afternoon of Dec. 8 and St. Thomas Anglican in Seaforth at 4 p.m. on Dec. 22.

The “Fields of Faith Growing Project” is based out of Brucefield Community United Church, and works together with the help of Brussels, Clinton and Seaforth United churches.  This group holds fundraisers in the community throughout the year. It also sells the proceeds of their two growing projects with Hill and Hill Farms, Varna; and Joe and Miriam Terpstra, Brussels. The growing project proceeds and any other funds raised are then donated to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank and are matched 1-1 by the Canadian government to provide food, training and sustainability to countries around the world.

The Canadian Foodgrains Bank is a partnership of 15 Canadian national churches and church-based agencies working together to end world hunger by providing emergency food in times of crisis, helping people improve their access to food in the longer-term and engaging Canadians and government toward meaningful change.  It has been rated year-over-year as one of the top 10 charities worth donating to in Canada.

At the Nov. 17 event those who attend may choose to donate something out of their wallet, but the committee would also be pleased to accept cheque donations directed to “Fields of Faith Growing Project”.

This amazing event will offer a wonderful blend of youthful, enthusiastic musicianship and the mellow sounds and expertise of a veteran orchestra, surely it is not to be missed!

PHYSICIANS RECOGNIZED BY CLINTON PUBLIC HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Dr. Farzaneh Ebrahimi Fard (left) was recently welcomed to the Clinton Family Health Team and Clinton Public Hospital (CPH) while Dr. Peter Salsbury was congratulated on his retirement having served the community since 1982. (Submitted photo)

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, a Physician Reception was held at the Libro Hall in Clinton with great response. The reception was a chance to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Peter Salsbury, and welcome Dr. Farzaneh Ebrahimi Fard to the Clinton Family Health Team and Clinton Public Hospital (CPH).

Dr. Salsbury started his career in Clinton in 1982, and his contribution to healthcare within the Central Huron Community and beyond, is immeasurable. He was a family practitioner, emergency room and hospital physician, as well as an anesthetist. For a small rural community, this unique set of qualifications was a true gift.

Dr. Ebrahimi Fard came to Canada from Iran, to begin a new life with her family. She also possesses a unique set of skills. In addition to family medicine, she has a background in general surgery. Her knowledge and diverse experiences will be of great benefit to the community, the Clinton Family Health Team, and CPH.

Congratulating remarks were given by Mayor Jim Ginn; President and CEO of the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance, Andrew Williams; Chair of the Clinton Family Health Team and Lead Physician for the Clinton Physicians, Dr. Loretta Seevaratnam; and Chair of the CPH Foundation, Darren Stevenson.

More information from the night can be found on the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation’s Facebook page.

LEVEL 1 LOW WATER ADVISORY AREA EXPANDS

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) Water Response Team (WRT) has updated a Level 1 Low Water Advisory to include the entire Ausable Bayfield watershed. The team had declared a Level 1 Low Water Advisory for the Bayfield River watershed in October. The WRT extended the advisory, to a larger area, on Nov. 8.

Nearly three successive months of dry weather has resulted in decreased groundwater levels in shallow aquifers, significant reduction of base flows in watercourses, and, in some cases, complete loss of base flows. This prompted the WRT to expand the advisory to the whole watershed.

The WRT depends on Ontario Low Water Response (OLWR) indicators to make its decisions. Rainfall and streamflow have fallen below the indicators, with rainfall at an average of only 50 per cent of normal in each of the last few months. The indicator for a Level 1 is 80 per cent of normal for the indicator period. This can be a combination of one-month and three-month totals. As of early November, stream flows are only at 10-20 per cent of normal.

“This three-month stretch of dry weather is having an impact watershed-wide, to the point where many smaller creeks and streams have stopped flowing completely,” said Christie Brown, ABCA Water Resources technician.

To see an improvement, Brown added, the team has to look at water supply over the long term.

“To get us back to seasonal normal, it’s going to require wetter than normal conditions in the weeks or months ahead,” Brown said.

WRT Chair Marissa Vaughan said everyone has a role to play in water conservation and it begins with awareness.

“During a Level 1 Low Water Advisory condition, we encourage all water users to proactively conserve water by voluntarily reducing their water use by 10 per cent,” Vaughan said.

For ways to reduce water use, visit the water quantity and water conservation page at abca.ca at this link: Water Quantity Conservation.

The WRT relies on precipitation and streamflow indicators when making a decision to move into a Low Water Advisory. Indicators include one-month streamflow and one-month or three-month precipitation. A Level 1 advisory includes a request for a 10 per cent voluntary reduction in water use. A Level 2 advisory calls for an additional 10 per cent (total of 20 per cent) voluntary reduction. A Level 3 Low Water Advisory may involve mandatory water use restrictions.

The WRT was formed in 2001 in response to the low water and drought conditions that year. The team has been active since then. The WRT includes representatives of major water users (such as aggregate industries; agriculture and vegetable growers; and golf and recreation) and includes local municipal representatives and staff of provincial ministries (such as Natural Resources; Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness; and Environment, Conservation and Parks). ABCA staff will continue to monitor rainfall and streamflow data and keep the public informed of any changes in watershed conditions.

Visit www.ontario.ca/lowwater for more on Ontario Low Water Response or the website at abca.ca for the low-water advisory tool which alerts people to low-water advisories in effect in the watershed.

WILD ONTARIO TO ATTEND OWL PROWL

Owls are incredible creatures of the night. Over the years, hundreds of people have learned about owls and their amazing nocturnal adaptations at the annual Owl Prowl.

People must pre-register to take part in this event to be held on Friday, Nov. 15.  To register go to Owl Prowl. Registration is free but organizers encourage donations to Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) in support of Foundation programming.

The event includes one group from 5:30-7 p.m. and a second group from 7:30-9 p.m. There are a maximum of 75 participants in each group. It has been confirmed that participants will have a chance to view live owls, courtesy of WILD Ontario.

Cassie Greidanus is the Conservation Education Coordinator with ABCA. She shared that the Owl Prowl offers people a way to be active in nature, listen for owls, learn about local animals active at night, and to show their support for conservation education.

“This event is possible thanks to the donations by those taking part,” she said. “That generous support raises money to support conservation education programs for the next year.”

She would like to invite participants to “explore our nocturnal world, including owls and other nocturnal species of Ontario.” She shared that people registered for the event should “…be prepared to learn all about the nightlife happening when we are normally tucked into bed…” and to “…discover the adaptations of our owls and the creatures with which they co-exist.”

To find out more visit the Ausable Bayfield Conservation events page: ABCA Events or contact Greidanus by emailing cgreidanus@abca.ca or by calling  519 235-2610, or toll-free 1-888-286-2610, Ext. 262.

The Owl Prowl will run rain, snow or shine but not if there is thunder or lightning. In the case of a cancellation, registrants will be notified via email.

The Owl Prowl is possible thanks to the support of ABCF, and its donors and community supporters, and the support of ABCA and its member municipalities.

Morrison Dam Conservation Area is located at 71108 Morrison Line, RR 3 Exeter. It is two km East of Exeter and just south of Hwy 83.