The Bayfield BreezeIssue 836 Week 29 Vol 17
July 16, 2025
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HARMONY HEARING CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING
PHOTOS AND STORY BY SAMANTHA LAWSON
The interior of Harmony Hearing is ready to welcome clients for a variety of hearing related services.
Owner and Audiologist Susan Schlacht and Patient Care Coordinator Dawn Baxter pose in front of Harmony Hearing which was officially opened on Friday, June 20 and is located at 6 Bayfield Main St. North Unit 102.
Bayfield residents won’t have to travel far to have all their hearing needs met with the addition of a new hearing clinic right on the village’s main street.
Harmony Hearing, located at 6 Bayfield Main St. North Unit 102, celebrated its grand opening and ribbon cutting on June 20.
The event offered snacks and refreshments, a grand opening raffle draw, a plinko game with prizes, and 90.5 My FM Exeter Today was also in attendance.
Owner and Audiologist Susan Schlacht said the clinic services all ages, from six months old to those in their senior years, and offers a wide variety of services.
“I do hearing tests, central auditory processing testing for children, hearing aids and repairs, ear wax removal,” Schlacht said.
Schlacht previously owned a hearing clinic in Goderich for about 18 years before closing up shop there and opening a clinic in Wingham a year and a half ago.
She decided to expand to Bayfield when she was driving down Main Street one day and saw a “for rent” sign and knew she couldn’t pass up the opportunity.
Schlacht lives five minutes from the new location in Bayfield and said she definitely felt the need for a hearing clinic in the community.
“I did feel that when I was in Goderich I had a lot of people coming from Bayfield there, so now people don’t have to drive [to Goderich], the new clinic is right in their downtown area,” Schlacht said.
Schlacht is just one part of the two-woman team servicing the Bayfield location. She works alongside Patient Care Coordinator Dawn Baxter, who said she loves being in the village.
“I love Bayfield, the people are so friendly here. There’s a warm sense of community, which is just fantastic,” Baxter said.
Baxter said she thinks hearing is so important, being one of our five senses, and she also felt the need for Harmony Hearing in Bayfield.
“I believe that there’s a lot of retirees in this area, a lot of cottagers and vacationers, and I feel that there is a need for the services that we do provide, so people are hearing at their optimum levels,” Baxter said.
Schlacht said she is looking forward to servicing the community.
“I’m very happy to be part of Bayfield and Huron County, and serve all the individuals who are hearing impaired,” Schlacht said.
Harmony Hearing is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, and open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Fridays.
For more information about the clinic and what services are offered, visit harmonyhearing.ca.
BAYFIELD LEGO CLUB WELCOMES DONATION FROM CANADIAN RETAILER
Lincoln Jeffrey (left), 6, of Bayfield, was the winner of the Bayfield Lego Club’s first ever Lego Building Competition held in conjunction with the Bayfield Optimist Club’s “Kids Schools Out for Summer” event held on June 28. Lincoln’s build received the most votes in an online voting competition and he was presented with a brand new “Lego Delivery Truck” set for his efforts. Founder of the Bayfield Lego Club, John Pounder, presented Lincoln with his prize at the monthly meeting of the Lego Club held on July 12. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Founder of the Bayfield Lego Club John Pounder (left) and Jeff Kish (right, president of the Bayfield Optimist Club recently accepted a tremendously generous donation of Lego bricks from Staples Canada Chief Retail Officer Brian McDougall, who is also a part-time Bayfield resident. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Bayfield Lego Club has always been fortunate to receive donations of second hand Lego from members of the community. However, a recent donation of a plethora of brand new Lego parts and pieces as well as some mini build kits has elevated what local Lego enthusiasts might be able to create to a whole new level.
Brian McDougall is Chief Retail Officer with Staples Canada. He is also a part-time Bayfield resident. He has watched with interest the activities of the Bayfield Lego Club in the Bayfield Breeze and recently approached a member of the Bayfield Optimist Club, who sponsors the program, with a potential donation. Staples, known as “the working and learning co.”, hold special events incorporating the Lego brand a few times a year at their stores across the country. There is always Lego left over. McDougall thought perhaps the Bayfield Lego Club would prove to be a suitable beneficiary of these bricks.
“Staples Canada is all about life-long learning, that’s why we’ve introduced Staples Kids Learn + Play in many stores across Canada. This new offering to our customers is all about play-based learning; the collection includes various hands-on activities and games that promote active participation to foster kids’ growth, develop fundamental skills and help set them up for success. I thought the learning and playing could continue to inspire the members of the Bayfield Lego Club in the village I’m very proud to support,” said McDougall.
Founder of the Bayfield Lego Club, John Pounder, was gobsmacked by the donation to the club and he and fellow organizers look forward to putting the supplies to use perhaps adding more of a competitive building element to the program on occasion, as well as using some of the pieces as goodwill giveaways from the both the Optimists and the Lego Club.
“It is always amazing to watch the youngsters’ wheels turn when they come out to Lego Club. One of the best parts is watching their imaginative story telling begin to flourish as they construct,” said Pounder. “We are very excited to work this donation from Brian and Staples into our programming and would like to thank him and the company for their generosity. ”
The Bayfield Lego Club, now in its second year, held its first ever building competition at the “Kids Schools Out for Summer” event held at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena on Saturday, June 28. The photos of seventeen Lego creations were then entered into the online voting competition hosted on Facebook. Voting closed on July 11, the day prior to the most recent meeting of the Lego Club. The winner of the Lego set with 38 votes was six year-old Bayfield resident, Lincoln Jeffrey. Lincoln was presented the set from Pounder at the start of the club meeting and he noted that he hoped to be able to start building it that very weekend – but he had a ball game to go play first!
The Bayfield Lego Club meets on the second Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the TSJ Hall, 10 Keith Crescent in the village. Ages two and up are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.
CONVERSATIONS IN THE GARDEN HAPPENING TODAY
Volume #1 of Shelton’s debut series “Reburn” has been combined into a 120-page trade paperback of issues #1-4 along with bonus materials including a cover gallery and a sneak peek of Volume #2. This graphic novel will be available for purchase at “Conversations in the Garden” on July 16. (Submitted photo)
Bayfield resident and Editor Jessica Petelle and visiting Author Alyson Shelton are excited to share the first volume of “Reburn” in Bayfield! And they are doing so today (July 16) during “Conversations in the Garden” with host Judy Whittaker of the Bayfield Writers Series.
The event will be held in The Village Bookshop garden from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with an “Author Talk” moderated by Whittaker at noon. Those who attend are invited to a time of mingling while enjoying cookies and coffee from Shopbike Coffee Roasters.
Two books published through Reburn Media Inc. will be showcased at this event with a limited quantity of both books available for signature. Reburn Media Inc., founded by Petelle and Shelton, is a small press dedicated to creators telling hard truths with big ideas in all forms of publishing.
Volume #1 of Shelton’s debut series “Reburn” has been combined into a 120-page trade paperback of issues #1-4 along with bonus materials including a cover gallery and a sneak peek of Volume #2.
“We are running a Kickstarter during this time, but this is the only place you can purchase a physical copy of the book before its official release in September. Follow us @reburncomic for more info!” shared Petelle.
The recently published anthology, “The Loss of a Lifetime: Grieving Siblings Share Stories of Love, Loss and Hope”, edited by Alyson Shelton and Lynn Shattuck will also be discussed and available for purchase on July 16 at The Village Bookshop. (Submitted photo)
Kaare Andrews, author and illustrator behind “Spider-man Reign” and “Spiderman and Wolverine” has declared “Reburn” to be: “An impressive debut! A violent, visceral and emotion fueled spectacle. A story you need to read, right now!”
The plot of this graphic novel can be summarized as: “In the future, catastrophic floods hit our planet which mysteriously leave behind a woman they name, May. Super-powered and ready to fight, she joins forces with Hope, a woman who longs to create a communal utopia, The Unity. Our story picks up years later, Hope’s glorious ideal eroded by power and greed and May’s whereabouts completely unknown.”
“Reburn” showcases art from Elise McCall (Spy Island), Hilary Jenkins (Grass Kings), Molly Mendoza (Skip). Abigail Larson (The Horror Tarot) and Joamette Gil (Archival Quality).
Reburn isn’t the only book that will be conversed about in the garden. The recently published anthology, “The Loss of a Lifetime: Grieving Siblings Share Stories of Love, Loss and Hope”, edited by Shelton and Lynn Shattuck will also be discussed and available for purchase. The anthology is a collection of writing from 26 authors examining sibling loss from a number of unique perspectives. These stories affirm that the death of a brother or sister is profound and life-altering loss – and that both love and grief can last a lifetime. This book is also available on Amazon in paperback and on Kindle.
The Village Bookshop is located at 24 Main Street North in the village.
PLENTY OF FOOD OPTIONS AT BAYFIELD COMMUNITY FAIR
Elizabeth Dimos will be bringing her “All Fired Up” food truck to this year’s Bayfield Community Fair where food will be served with a generous helping of smiles. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The Bayfield Community Fair is now just over a month away – Aug. 15-17. Fair organizers encourage everyone in the community to come out and experience all the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Fair!
There is something for everyone throughout the Fair weekend: Friday night BBQ Chicken Dinner and fireworks, Saturday morning parade, homecraft exhibits, activities and entertainment for kids, 4-H dairy and sheep competitions, horse shows, Saturday evening Rock Revival tribute concert in partnership with the Bayfield Town Hall, as well as unique events for all ages, competitions, demonstrations, vendors, educational displays, and so much more.
Wondering what food will be available? The Bayfield Fair will have a number of food options to satisfy every craving.
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be hosting a BBQ Chicken Dinner at the Agricultural Park on Friday, Aug. 15 with continuous serving from 5-7 p.m. Full details and ticket information can be found by visiting Chicken Dinner details.
Food trucks will be available on both Saturday, Aug.16, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Goderich Scouts will also have a booth selling hot dogs and cold drinks as a fundraiser.
The pie and beverage booth operated as a BAS fundraiser in the arena at last year’s fair was a huge success. Slices of pie and cold drinks will again be available at this year’s fair giving visitors a chance to sit down and “take a load off” while enjoying a delicious snack. The pie and beverage booth will be located in the arena on Saturday, Aug. 16 from noon to 4 p.m.
Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) will be at the Fair again this year providing free filtered water at a booth close to the back door of the arena. Fairgoers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles and OCWA will be happy to fill them with refreshing water. There is also a water refill station in the arena foyer area.
For the 2025 Fair Schedule and details, please visit www.BayfieldFair.ca Lots of fun events and activities are still being added to the schedule, so check back often for new information.
Create Fair memories – enjoy the delicious food choices!
CLEOCATRA RESCUED FROM BAYFIELD MAIN STREET
CleoCatra (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines receives multiple calls daily from people alerting them to cats in need and sometimes as this story explains the calls are all regarding the same cat.
The Adopt a BFF cat of the week is CleoCatra.
According to Deb Penhale, representing BFF, “This darling young girl had been seen wandering the Main Street of Bayfield by multiple people over the course of about three to four weeks. We did have people call and mention she was there, but when we went to investigate she was not readily seen. Although we did have several people send us pictures and descriptions and say she was very friendly but also very thin.
“Then a week ago we had three calls back to back from people about the same cat, coincidentally one of our volunteers happened to be on the Main Street at the time and was simply able to pick her up in his arms and bring her to the shelter.”
Penhale added that CleoCatra was not feral and has obviously known people. When she was brought into the Rescue she was given worm medicine, flea medication and her first round of vaccinations. She was checked for a microchip, finding none, the volunteers then proceeded with their intake routine.
“She was checked to ensure that she was not a nursing Mama and she is not. We do believe that she may be in heat, which actually is a good thing because it means that she is not currently pregnant if she is indeed in a heat cycle,” said Penhale. “This means she will not be reproducing and having to fight and struggle to survive and raise babies on her own as she is just a baby herself.
“Her coloring is beautiful. Her personality is loving, and she will soon be looking for her forever home.”
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting CleoCatra and others as well as fostering. 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.
In addition to accepting monetary donations, BFF 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.
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.
ATTENTION SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS
A note from the Silent Auction Team from the 76th annual Rummage Sale and Silent Auction for the Pioneer Park Association held on July 11:
Would the successful bidder at the Silent Auction who bought the 18 holes of golf at White Squirrel please contact info@pioneerpark.ca for their gift certificate? They will need it to play golf at the course. They are asked to return the bidding sheet in return.
GARDEN CLUB
The Bayfield Garden Club will tour two beautiful gardens at their next meeting to be held on Monday, July 21.
The tour will begin at Paul Simpson’s home, 9 Harbour Court, Bayfield. Participants who drive to the location are asked to please park along Harbour Court.
Following the tour of the Simpson gardens, those who take part will walk around the corner to the home of Helen Varekamp, 8 Jowett’s Grove Road for a tour of that property.
Anyone wishing to carpool is asked to meet at St. Andrew’s United Church at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome.
SPEAKER SERIES
Knox Presbyterian Church, Bayfield is hosting a “Speaker Series”, sponsored by Toyota Goderich, on topics that may be of interest to the community.
The next instalment of the Speaker Series will be held on Tuesday, July 22 at 2 p.m. At that time, Knox will welcome Constable Craig Soldan, Community Engagement and Media Relations officer, from the local Huron County detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), located in Clinton and serving the Municipality of Bluewater and other surrounding municipalities.
“Soldan will speak about safety measures we can take in our lives such as, how to be wary of unsolicited contact, protecting our personal information, verifying requests through legitimate channels, and reporting suspicious activity,” said Teresa Steel, representing Knox, Bayfield.
Following the presentation coffee, tea and dessert will be served. Although there is no cost to attend, a free-will offering would be appreciated. All monies will be donated to “Kids and Cops Fishing Derby” taking place this summer. All are welcome!
People of all ages, stages, and faith experiences are welcome to join in weekly services at Knox, Bayfield. Their next service will be held on Sunday, July 20 at 11 a.m.
Knox Presbyterian Church Bayfield is located at 2 Bayfield Main Street North. To learn more visit knoxbayfield.ca or follow them on YouTube – Knox, Bayfield.
UKULELE SOCIETY
Members of the Bayfield Ukulele Society, led by Nancy Moore, held their jam session in Clan Gregor Square on the morning of Saturday, July 5. The session happened to coincide with Bayfield Vettefest providing them with a marvellous number of spectators to watch them perform. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
In the fair weather months, the Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS) holds their jam sessions in Clan Gregor Square.
People will find them there Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8 p.m. and Saturday mornings from 10-11:30 a.m. …except if it is raining.
Folks are encouraged to bring their supper or breakfast to the park to listen to the music, sing along or even dance if they are so inclined.
SOUND BATH
Bayfield Lavender Farm will be the lovely location for people to experience a “Deep Relaxation Sound Bath” on Thursday, July 17.
Starting at 4:30 p.m., for one-hour, people can enjoy a relaxing, creative visualization experience through the vibrational and resonating power of the harp, guided by Bayfield’s own Martha Lawrance.
The cost for this session will be $35 per person. Registration and payment may be made at www.bayfieldlavenderfarm.ca. For more information please call 519 525-5724.
Bayfield Lavender Farm is located at 77881 Porters Hill Line, Bayfield.
ART SHOW
Three friends. Three artists. Three visions. That is the theme of an Art Show being held in the village on July 26-27.
The participating artists are Julia Armstrong, Margaret Crosby and Lisa Verbakel.
The public is more than welcome to come and view their work that will be on display from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days in the Community Room at 1851 Bayfield Landing located at 21 Bayfield Main Street North.
COME & GO CELEBRATION
Longtime volunteers with the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS), Ted and Jean Dunn, are pictured here at the fairgrounds following the 2024 parade. They rode in style in James Armstrong’s 1923 Model “T” Ford. In 2025, the couple are being honored for a combined 130 years of service with the BAS. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be holding a special “Come & Go” gathering to celebrate and thank Ted and Jean Dunn for their combined 130 years plus of volunteering with the BAS.
The celebration will be held in the pavilion in Bayfield Agricultural Park on Friday, July 25 from 2-4 p.m. Those attending can drive into the fairgrounds through the front gate on Fry Street and park near the pavilion on the far side of the park. Those who attend are asked to please bring a lawn chair. All are encouraged to relax and share memories with BAS volunteers as well as Ted and Jean’s family. Refreshments will be served, and of course, for those who know Ted well, there will be pie!
Ted and Jean have been a big part of the BAS and the fair over the years. Come and be part of this special celebration to honor them. BAS members past and present, volunteers, and community members – all are welcome!
BLUEWATER MARINA
The Municipality of Bluewater invites Expressions of Interest (EOI) from qualified and experienced marina operators interested in managing and operating the Bluewater Marina, located at the mouth of the Bayfield River on Lake Huron. This scenic, Blue Flag-certified marina includes seasonal and transient docks, fuel services, and key marine infrastructure.
This request for EOI is a preliminary step to gauge interest and qualifications. It is not a procurement process and will not result in a contract. However, if sufficient interest is received from qualified operators, the Municipality may issue a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) in Fall 2025. The successful proponent would enter into a sublease agreement starting Jan. 1st, 2027, for a term of five or 10 years, with potential renewal options.
This request for EOI was issued on June 17 and will close on Thursday, July 31st at 12 p.m.
A request for Expressions of Interest package can be obtained by contacting Maggie Off, manager of Facilities, Parks & Recreation at facilities@municipalityofbluewater.ca with the subject line: RFEOI Submission – Bluewater Marina.
CHICKEN DINNER
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be hosting a BBQ Chicken Dinner fundraiser on Friday, Aug. 15th to celebrate the opening of the 169th Bayfield Fair.
The dinner will be held on the grounds of the Bayfield Agricultural Park. Chicken dinners will be served continuously from 5-7 p.m.
Each BBQ Chicken Dinner will include a quarter chicken expertly prepared and grilled by Pineridge BBQ with their own special BBQ sauce, baked potato with sour cream and butter, creamy coleslaw, dinner roll with butter, dessert, and a bottle of water. There will be plenty of seating and live entertainment!
People can choose to dine at the Bayfield Agricultural Park or get dinners to take out.
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at: BBQ Chicken Dinner.
The last date for online ticket sales will be Aug. 7. Tickets at the gate will be very limited. Anyone interested is encouraged to get their tickets early. For additional information, please contact info@bayfieldfair.ca.
Bayfield Agricultural Park is located at 1 Fry Street in the village.
FRIENDS OF BAYFIELD LIBRARY
Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) has two Saturday book sales planned for the summer: Aug. 2 and Aug. 16.
Both will be held outside the Bayfield Branch Library from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Come browse and select from mysteries, thrillers, romances, memoirs, biographies, history, science fiction, horror, young adult and children’s books. Additionally, the Red Cart and Red Table are crammed with interesting reads and are available at the library every day. The stock of books is frequently replenished, so peruse the titles often. All donations go to support the Bayfield library and its programs.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Bayfield Main Street North in the village.
BAYFIELD LIBRARY
The Bayfield Branch Library has a couple of events planned to entertain crafty youngsters this summer including hosting volunteers with the Bayfield Agricultural Society to ensure kids can enter into the fair for a chance to win prizes!
Offered independently of library staff by some passionate community members will be “Make and Take Bayfield Fair Edition” on Tuesday, Aug. 5. Bayfield Agricultural Society volunteers will be on hand to assist those who wish to get crafty and then enter their creations into the Bayfield Community Fair. This session will be offered for one hour starting at 5:45 p.m.
Registration for “Make and Take Bayfield Fair Edition” is required by calling the Goderich Library at 519 524-9261 or emailing: goderichlibrary@huroncounty.ca
On Fridays in July and August kids can drop by the Bayfield Library between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. for a new LEGO building challenge each week! Participants can complete a challenge to earn a stamp on their LEGO Challenge Card. Once they’ve collected four stamps, they can submit their card for a chance to win the LEGO Grand Prize! This program is also generously sponsored by FOBL.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
EARLYON BAYFIELD
A sure sign Summer is here is the migration of the Bayfield Playgroup, hosted by EarlyON, to the great outdoors! The group is now meeting for their time together in Clan Gregor Square until September.
The sessions are free to all families/caregivers with infants to children aged six years and runs from 10-11:30 a.m. Participants are invited to join in a variety of activities to enhance all areas of their child’s development, connect with EarlyON staff, other families, as well as community resources. They always end the group with songs and a story.
When the weather proves unfavorable the playgroup will move back indoors to the TSJ Hall located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
Anyone who may have questions or require additional information, is asked to please contact Kelly Kyle via email at kkyle@goderich.ca or earlyon@goderich.ca or by calling 519 524-9999.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
A peer-led Cancer Support Group will hold their next meeting at the Bayfield Branch Library on July 19.
This group is for anyone navigating the journey of cancer, undergoing treatment, managing a long-term condition or is a survivor. It will provide a safe and welcoming space to connect with others who understand the experience and can offer mutual support and encouragement.
This community-led programming will be offered for one-hour starting at 12:30 p.m.
Meeting dates set for the remainder of 2025 are: Sept. 27, Oct. 18 and Nov. 22.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
The Bayfield Bridge Club members have moved the games to a new location – St. Andrew’s United Church.
Players do not need to attend with a partner to participate in these “drop-in” sessions. New people are invited to join in this great opportunity to make new friends as partners are switched after every four hands. There are weekly reviews on bidding responses at the beginning of each session for example, responses to a No Trump open etc. Snacks are served mid-session.
The cost to take part is $4 per player. The cards are shuffled at 1 p.m. All levels of players are welcome to take part in these games that are played year-round.
St Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in the village.
RED AND WHITE PROUDLY SPORTED ON CANADA DAY HIKE
PHOTOS BY JACK PAL
The Bayfield River Valley Association hosted a Canada Day Hike from Clan Gregor Square to the Bayfield River Flats on Tuesday, July 1st. Forty people attended many sporting the preferred colors of the day – red and white! (Photo by Jack Pal)
Over 40 people came out to celebrate Canada Day with a walk from Clan Gregor Square to the Bayfield River Flats on Tuesday, July 1st.
Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) encouraged walkers to show their Canadian pride and there was no shortage of red and white hats, shirts and flags.
Organizers noted that the occasion was particularly meaningful for one participant named Tania, whose family came to Canada from Ukraine under a special government program shortly after the Russian invasion began in 2022.
“Carrying this flag is very special for me,” she said. “We are very lucky to be here.”
The walk proceeded down Bayfield Main Street and Short Hill Road to the new walkway under the bridge and to the Bayfield River Flats. Hike leader Peter Jeffers, himself a newly minted Canadian citizen, explained historical and natural points of interest, including Admiral Bayfield Square, the Penhale Landau, and the River Flats themselves.
BRVTA – Bayfield Trails – sponsors 25 guided hikes and walks each year in and around the village. They will be hosting one more during the month of July.
On Saturday, July 26, all are welcome to just go for a hike hosted by the BRVTA on the Woodland trail. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and to explore the beautiful and diverse Woodland Trail with a guide.
The trail is approximately 5 km long going through a beautiful woodland setting. Participants are asked to meet at the David Street entrance to the trail at 10 a.m. From the Mill Road/Hwy 21 intersection, take Sarnia Street to Mactavish Crescent, then right onto David Street. Please follow the signs to the trail parking.
These hikes are free and open to the public. Furry friends are welcome to join as long as they are on a leash.
Beware of ticks! A reminder that ticks are present on the trails and a bite by the deer tick may result in Lyme Disease. Be sure to take precautions. Learn more by visiting Huron Perth Public Health at Lyme disease.
For more information contact Ralph Blasting at 519 525-3205 or rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
RALLY FORE THE CURE PARTICIPANTS RECEIVE UPDATE ON MAMMOGRAPHY PROGRAM
Rally Fore the Cure Huron recently presented the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Foundation (AMGHF) with a cheque in the amount of $13,357.85 as a result of their charity golf tournament held at the Bluewater Golf Course near Bayfield on June 22. This was the largest amount donated from the fundraiser in its 24 year history. Participating in the cheque presentation were from l-r: Huron Health System President and CEO, Jimmy Trieu; AMGHF Executive Director, Kimberley Payne; Rally Fore the Cure Huron Committee Members, Judy Lajeunesse, Barb Lassaline and Anne McIsaac; Diagnostic Medical Sonographer, Jayme Eadie; Medical Radiation Technologist, Liane Grecco; Manager Diagnostic Imaging and Cardiorespiratory, Katie Howard; Committee Members, Kelly Desson and Tracey Peters. (Submitted photo)
Huron County has one mammogram machine, at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital in Goderich which serves all of Huron County and beyond, for doctor recommended mammography and the Ontario Breast Screening Program.
The good news is that as of November 2024 that machine is brand new due in large part to fundraising events like Rally Fore the Cure Huron – an annual Golf Tournament that in 2025 was held at the Bluewater Golf Course near Bayfield on June 22. This year’s event raised over $13,000 for AMGHs Mammography program.
This was the biggest tournament to date with 96 golfers participating. It was also the largest donation made by the tournament in its 24 year history. The committee extends its thanks to all who donated and those who participated in the tournament making it such a resounding success.
Following the golf, at the dinner, participants were fortunate to hear an email update from Lead Mammography Technologist at AMGH, Wendi Allinson, read by AMGH Foundation Executive Director Kimberley Payne. Allinson has been working for just over 20 years at AMGH providing high quality mammogram images and patient care.
She opened her update by thanking all involved in the annual fundraiser from organizers to participants.
“Not only are you raising funds, but you are also educating others on the importance of mammograms and the fact that the community must raise funds for hospital equipment,” Allinson said.
She then went on to update those gathered about the AMGH Mammography Department.
“We recently installed our brand new machine in November 2024. The group of radiologists we work with in London are very happy with the new equipment and image quality and so are the technologists working on the machine,” she relayed.
In May of 2025, AMGH obtained their license for the machine to operate with Tomosynthesis which provides a 3D image of the breast instead of the standard 2D image.
Allinson then went on to explain how the process works.
“Nine low dose images are taken in a series of about nine seconds. They are then reconstructed into a 3D image allowing the radiologist to view the breast tissue in thin slices (kind of like a CT scan),” she explained. “This technology helps to better visualize and differentiate between normal and abnormal tissue, potentially reducing the overlap of breast tissue that can obscure tumors in 2D mammograms. And for the dose, it is the same radiation dose as the 2D mammogram.
According to Allinson, currently, the new 3D technology is being used on women who are being called back in for additional imaging, or are having follow up imaging. For the future, they are moving toward having all screening mammograms 3D. This is a work in process with OHIP, Ontario Breast Screening and the radiologists in Ontario.
Allinson noted that in the future they would like to begin doing contrast mammograms at AMGH.
“This, of course, requires an expensive licence. Our department is ready for this new technology as our mammogram technologists are already CT contrast injection techs, and we have an injector waiting for just this reason. Contrast mammography entails us placing an IV in your arm, injecting a contrast media (just like in CT), then performing a mammogram. The contrast will highlight abnormal blood vessels and hyperactive tissues that can happen when cancer develops. It basically is another tool to help detect breast cancer in the early stages.”
Allinson concluded by saying,”…I feel it is important to keep the rally’s organizers and participants up to date on what you are raising funds for, and how it is greatly helping out the entire community. The mammography technologists at AMGH again want to give everyone a huge thank you and know that we appreciate your hard work with this rally.”
Rally organizers and participants alike were no doubt heartened to learn that having the ability to do Tomosynthesis here in Huron County, when warranted, will save residents the stress of having to travel outside the county for this 3D imaging. This new technology, as well as more in the future, will certainly be something to continue rallying “fore”.
CAMP DREW STUDENTS FROM ACROSS PROVINCE
Healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, social workers and pharmacists, gave presentations at Discovery Health Camp held at Camp Klahanie south of Goderich on July 7-11. (Submitted photo)
During the week of July 7-11, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, in partnership with Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway), Huron Health System (HHS), and the Goderich Lions Club, facilitated the Discovery Healthcare Camp (DHC).
DHC is a one week-long event giving high school students a snapshot of healthcare in rural communities. This year, 27 students attended from across the province, with one camper coming all the way from Chapleau!
Healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, social workers and pharmacists, gave presentations. The students developed a better understanding of the roles that healthcare professionals take in a rural community. This was a great opportunity to network with these professionals, ask questions, and get information to support their future ambitions.
Among a variety of activities, the students experienced suturing, casting, delivering a baby (by simulation), and they learned from the three medical students who led the camp. Throughout the week, they developed a research project on health and wellbeing to be presented in a mock research conference. The project gave them an opportunity to analyze and think critically about a scientific topic that they were interested in. The week concluded with graduation, where the students celebrated their accomplishments through the week and presented them to their peers and families.
This DHC is the only such camp in Huron County, helping to inspire and support rural youth to pursue careers in healthcare. Many rural students face barriers to entry in these fields, and HHS and Gateway are committed to bridging that gap by investing in tomorrow’s healthcare leaders, right here in the local community. Organizers would like to thank Western University for this initiative.
NEW MANAGER OF WATER AND PLANNING AT ABCA
Andrew Bicknell (Submitted photo)
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) has announced the new Manager of Water and Planning is Andrew Bicknell. He took on the manager role on June 30. This took place upon the retirement of the previous manager in this position, Geoffrey Cade, who worked in Water and Planning at ABCA for almost 20 years, first as a supervisor in the department and later as manager.
“I am pleased and honored to be named Manager of Water and Planning and I look forward to continuing to work closely with our municipal partners, property owners and other stakeholders in this watershed,” Bicknell said.
Prior to becoming Manager, Andrew Bicknell has served as Regulations Coordinator/Officer and more recently, Supervisor of Water and Planning at ABCA. He has nearly two decades of experience in Planning and Regulations in addition to many years in the consulting engineering and municipal sectors.
He is a Professional Engineer (P.Eng) and has a Bachelor of Applied Science (BASc) in Civil Engineering from the University of Waterloo.
Davin Heinbuck is ABCA General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer. He said the new Manager of Water and Planning brings valuable engineering and inter-personal skills to the position as well as years of experience and knowledge of the planning and regulations department.
“Andy has nearly two decades of experience at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority,” Heinbuck said. “Andy has played a key role in the Planning and Regulations department and we are pleased to have his proven experience and leadership in assuming this important role.”
The ABCA General Manager also thanked the previous departmental manager for his many positive contributions.
“ABCA wishes Geoff all the best on his retirement and I would like to thank him for his two decades of dedicated service,” he said.
Cade had been relied upon for his mentorship and leadership not only within the ABCA but among conservation authorities across the Province of Ontario, Heinbuck said.
“Geoff has made a valuable contribution to this organization, to this watershed, and to conservation throughout Ontario,” Heinbuck said. “I would also like to thank Geoff for leading a smooth and successful staffing transition in the Planning and Regulations department to position ABCA well for the future.”
The Planning and Regulations department is very important in ABCAs work, Heinbuck said, as staff help to protect life and property from natural hazards such as flooding and erosion. Staff review permit applications and ensure development takes place away from the most hazardous areas. In 2024, ABCA planning and regulations staff received 835 new file inquiries; issued 105 permits; completed 160 planning reviews; reviewed 38 drain applications; and received hundreds of other inquiries from the public.
The new Water and Planning Manager thanked his predecessor for his leadership, mentorship and for knowledge transfer leading up to his appointment.
“I would like to thank Geoff for his leadership and for his mentorship, knowledge and support, helping me, and the other Planning and Regulations staff, as we continue this important work,” Bicknell said.
To learn more about the ABCA Planning and Regulations program, visit the Ausable Bayfield Conservation website: Planning and Permits.
GODERICH ART CLUB
The Goderich Art Show and Sale as it looked in 2023 ready for visitors! (Submitted photo)
The 2025 Goderich Art Club Show and Sale will feature 25 artists and over 300 works of original art, in addition to original art cards, at The MacKay Centre from Aug. 8-10.
Started in 1952, the Goderich Art Club has been active for over 70 years and currently has 49 members. This year the feature artist is Kim Dumont.
“It is a great community of painters,” said Cindy Fisher, representing the club. “This is a show and sale, so there is no pressure to purchase when you attend the event.”
The Show and Sale will run Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no charge for admission and all are welcome to come and view what should be a pretty fabulous display of art! Cash, cheque, debit and credit cards are accepted.
Fisher went on to explain that the Goderich Art Club and Mackay Centre do not take a commission or percentage of sales from each artist. If a piece of art is sold, the entire amount goes to the artist.
“This is not a ‘money making’ venture for either the art Club or MacKay Centre. Each artist pays a fee to be in the show and that fee supports the programming of the art club and the MacKay Centre for Seniors which is a non-profit organization,” concluded Fisher.
The MacKay Centre, an accessible, air-conditioned building, is located at 10 Nelson Street East, Goderich (corner of North Street. and Nelson).
BUTTERFLY RELEASE
The Ninth Annual Huron Hospice Butterfly Release is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 24th. This cherished event invites families from across Huron County to honor the memory of loved ones by releasing butterflies during an emotional ceremony.
The butterfly is a symbol of transformation, hope, and renewal. Each release offers a meaningful way for participants to remember those they have lost while finding comfort in the shared experience.
“This event is about connection and bringing the community together to support the work being done at Huron Hospice,” said Willy Van Klooster, Executive director of Huron Hospice. “It gives families the chance to gather, reflect, and celebrate the lives of the people who meant so much to them.”
The afternoon will include a commemorative ceremony, hosted in the beautiful gardens at Bender House, where the names of loved ones will be read aloud in a touching tribute. Participants can purchase a butterfly in advance and take part in the release alongside other members of the community. People may also purchase butterflies and release them at a location that is meaningful to them.
Funds raised through the Butterfly Release help support the hospice palliative care, grief, and bereavement services that Huron Hospice provides to local families. The event is both a celebration of life and an important annual fundraiser.
“This is one of the most heartfelt events we host each year,” Van Klooster added. “It supports the work we do while reminding people they are not alone in their grief.”
Huron Hospice is proud to be a certified butterfly waystation, practicing organic practices and growing beautiful flowers in their gardens that help butterflies grow and thrive. The International Butterfly Breeders Association (IBBA) explains the benefits of butterfly releases which include the creation of butterfly gardens which decrease the need for insecticides, promoting the opportunity to educate about butterflies and their importance, in addition to the promotion of wildlife and other natural resources. The IBBA notes that captive butterflies retain their instinct to migrate, so relocation and release will not impact their ability to find resources and migrate during the appropriate season. After their release at Huron Hospice, the butterflies will come together and migrate south with other butterflies.
Butterflies can be purchased for $40 by visiting Butterfly Release. People can also place an order by contacting Kaitlyn Mathers at kaitlyn.mathers@huronhospice.ca. The deadline for orders is Aug. 15.
All are welcome to attend this special gathering and take a moment to reflect as the butterflies take flight, representing remembrance, love, and the journey forward.
HPPH ANNUAL REPORT
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is pleased to announce that the HPPH 2024 Annual Report is now available online. This report showcases the programs and services HPPH delivered in 2024 to protect and promote population health and prevent disease, strengthening quality of life and well-being for all. The report also includes a summary of financial information.
“The HPPH 2024 Annual Report includes updates on core public health programs and services likely familiar to our community, such as infectious disease control, immunizations, and Healthy Babies Healthy Children,” said Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Miriam Klassen. “Our report also describes several new initiatives which leverage technology, partnerships and latest evidence to achieve public health goals. These include leading the infection prevention and control hub to support congregate settings, widely sharing our social connection primer and launching a new opioid monitoring tool.”
HPPH uses evidence-based programs, services, and policies to address a wide range of health issues at a community level. Their work includes immunizations and infectious disease control to chronic disease prevention, environmental health, and emergency preparedness.
As a publicly funded organization, HPPH is accountable to the community, their board, and the provincial ministry of health.
HPPH is governed by the Huron Perth Board of Health, made up of municipal representatives from Huron County, Perth County, Stratford and St. Marys, as well as provincial appointees. They operate under the Ontario Public Health Standards and the Health Protection and Promotion Act set by the Ontario Ministry of Health.
HPPH regularly reports on its performance through annual reports, strategic plans and financial statements.
BETTER TOGETHER GALA
The Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre (HCFBDC) is hosting their 12th Annual Better Together Gala on Thursday, Aug. 7 at the Libro Community Hall in Clinton.
The doors open at 5 p.m. and the program will commence at 5:45 p.m. Dinner catered by the Pineridge BBQ Catering Company will be served at 6 p.m. and entertainment will be provided by Great Canadian Dueling Pianos. There will also be both silent and live auctions as well as some raffle tables.
Tickets for this year’s Gala are $85 each. For tickets visit: Better Together Gala 2025.
Libro Community Hall is located at 239 Bill Fleming Drive in Clinton.
POPPY’S HAVEN
Poppy’s Haven is planning some activities during the summer that will allow for some fun interactions with their Newfoundland Ponies.
Do you remember “Art in the Barn” in Bayfield? Well, instructor Robin Ellis is offering the program at Poppy’s Haven this summer. The first session, held on July 8, was a sell-out and so successful that two more events have now been scheduled.
These new dates are July 24 and Aug. 21, both Thursdays. On July 24 children aged six and up may be dropped off between 9:30-10 a.m. and picked up at 11:30 a.m. The class fee is $35 with advance registration and $45 at the barn door. Participants can register and send an e-transfer payment to poppy@poppyshaven.com. Details for the Aug. 21 session coming soon.
Please note that the “Family Paint Night” being organized for July 20 has been cancelled.
Poppy’s Haven is located at 39148 Mill Road near Varna.
ALZHEIMER SOCIETY
The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth’s online “Let’s Talk About…” sessions are back for another year! Their focus this year is on Types of Dementia.
People are invited to join Public Education Coordinators Jeanette Sears and Christy Bannerman as they highlight the unique brain changes and review the resources available at the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth.
The Let’s Talk About: Types of Dementia sessions will take place on Wednesday afternoons for one hour starting at 1:30 p.m., from now to July 30th. Participants can find out more and register for these workshops at Education Hour.
The themes are: July 16, Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease; July 23, Frontal Temporal Dementia; and July 30, Young Onset Dementia.
For more information, contact the office at 1-800-561-5012 or email jeanettes@alzhp.ca.
TURTLE RELEASE
The Turtle Hatchling Release has been set for Aug. 28. (Submitted photo)
Huron Stewardship Council (HSC) and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) will join together with other community partners to hold the 10th Annual Turtle Hatchling Release event on Thursday, Aug. 28.
The event will take place east of Exeter at Morrison Dam Conservation Area from 1-4 p.m. To reserve a spot, visit Eventbrite for Turtle Release Tickets.
Admission is free and people are welcome to drop in at any time during the event. Organizers encourage visitors to donate. Net proceeds support turtle conservation in Ontario. The event includes live reptiles on display; family-friendly activities; educational displays and more. There will be merchandise for sale as well.
The turtle release event has taken place since 2016. It was held as a virtual event in 2020 and 2021. Many hundreds of people have attended the event over the past ten years.
“It’s amazing how many people have learned about turtles at this event,” said Sheldon Paul, HSC Fieldwork coordinator. He said the event is a great way to educate the young and the young at heart about Ontario’s eight freshwater turtle species which are all at risk.
In advance of the event, trained personnel, with required permits, collect the turtle eggs at the site of the release and then incubate them. The eggs are not likely to hatch successfully if left on their own.
Staff releasing the hatchlings back into the wild in the area they were found are trained and authorized with required permits to release them.
People attending the turtle release will not be able to hold the turtles. This is to protect the animals and reduce their stress. Those attending can see the turtles as they are released and learn about them. Organizers remind the public to never release species, especially non-native species, into the wild.
Ontario’s native freshwater turtles face many threats including habitat loss and road mortality – death by cars and other vehicles. Hundreds of turtles in Ontario are hit by cars each year. These could be gravid (pregnant) females looking for a place to lay eggs, or turtles looking for new habitat and mates. People can help turtles by creating and enhancing habitat on their properties, helping turtles cross the road in the direction they are heading, when it is safe to do so; and working with their local municipalities and communities to erect turtle crossing signs and build safe passages. People can also arrange for transport of injured turtles to the turtle hospital.
Turtles are important links in food webs and provide essential ecological services, said Hope Brock, Healthy Watersheds specialist at ABCA. Snapping turtles, for example, help to control aquatic vegetation and clean creeks and wetlands by eating algae and dead and decaying fish and other organisms. They also cycle nutrients and spread seeds which benefit other organisms.
People can protect turtles, she said, by watching for turtles on roads when driving, helping them safely cross roads in the way they are headed, protecting nests from predators, and reporting turtle sightings to community monitoring projects. Enhancing turtle habitat is also vital.
“Preserving and creating habitat for turtles and other species is one of the most important things we can do to sustain our turtle species,” Brock said. “There has been a huge increase in the interest in turtles and protecting turtles in our watershed, so I also want to thank people for these efforts.
Thank you for your continued curiosity, for attending this event, and for your desire to help these at-risk animals.”
To learn more visit the Huron Stewardship Council and the ABCA Turtles webpage, or email HSC at huronstewardship@gmail.com.
Morrison Dam Conservation Area is located at 71108 Morrison Line, Exeter.
SOUTH HURON CLINIC
The South Huron Medical Centre Walk-in Clinic is open on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays (except for Christmas Day) 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.
No appointment is needed. Please bring your health card.
The South Huron Medical Centre is located at 23 Huron Street West in Exeter, ON.
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.
While most people are likely indulging in cold beverages as temperatures rise in the month of July there are some steadfast hot tea drinkers that might find this Museum artifact of interest…
TEA WARMER
This is a Tea Warmer (Portable Stove) from Holland known as a “Thee Stoofje” . It uses peat (a prepared form of charcoal) for a heat source.
The stove consists of a pot and handle. It is white with decorative gold lines. There is also an interior pot that would hold the peat. The plate rests on the top of the pot above the peat and this is where a tea pot would be placed for warming.
The “Thee Stoofje” was bought by Cornelius (Casey) and Wybrig (Wilma) deHaan in May 1939 as part of their household goods for their wedding. The couple immigrated from Holland on June 15, 1948 landing at Quebec City. They took a train to Goderich where Casey started work as a farm hand in Kingsbridge.
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Tea Warmer all parts combined.
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Tea Warmer Exterior
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Interior Pot
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Top Plate
PIONEER PARK ASSOCIATION
RUMMAGE SALE HAS RECORD MATCHING YEAR
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The outdoor shopping area opened for business at 5:30 p.m. on Friday, July 11 signalling the start of the 76th annual Pioneer Park Rummage Sale and Silent Auction. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
Rain threatened the 76th Annual Rummage Sale and Silent Auction but that did not dampen the spirits of the hundreds of treasure hunters who showed up, making the event a great success!
Team Rummage, the organizing volunteers who worked tirelessly over the past few months want to thank the community for their tremendous support through sale donations and attendance at the event.
“The success we are enjoying would not be possible without you, and we are so pleased to be able to continue supporting the maintenance of our beloved Pioneer Park. It looks from a preliminary count that we have matched last year’s donation total, and that was a record year!” said Catherine Tillmann, representing Team Rummage.
Organizers would like to offer a special thanks to the local merchants and private citizens for their generous contributions to the Silent Auction. Their donations helped make the event buzz with excitement and anticipation as the minutes ticked down to announcing the winning bids.
The Reder family again donated one of their Quonset huts so organizers could have a central location large enough to hold and sort all of the donations that came in over four weeks. It makes the job so much more efficient and is an invaluable resource .
Bayfield Foodland generously donated hotdogs, buns, condiments and pop for the event itself. The LCBO in Bayfield saved and provided the boxes necessary for sorting and transport. The Transportation team did an astounding job, above and beyond, and deserve complete gratitude for tireless days of hard work.
Sandy Scotchmer was, as always, a tremendous support at the arena ensuring the organizers had access to everything they needed. The Bayfield Agricultural Society offered their outdoor space and the tables necessary to display the goods. The Bayfield Lions Club provided all season storage and space for set up, as well as a tent that kept the framed art safe from the rain. Peg boards and easels were provided by the Photography Club of Bayfield.
Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity, both from Goderich, were able to take the items that were unsold ensuring they will find a good home and not end up in landfill.
The Silent Auction is the largest contributor to funds raised. Leslee Squirrell took over the reins this year from Pattie MacDonald, who remained a tremendous support, and weeks were spent sourcing and evaluating the exciting items that make the Silent Auction so popular.
It is gratifying to realize that over 200 volunteers came together to make this annual event happen. Dedication to the cause was taken to a whole new level this year. The joy of everyone working together was infectious, and that feeling spilled over to the sale itself.
A special thank you to Melody Falconer-Pounder and the Bayfield Breeze for tremendous support publishing articles and covering the event.
The Pioneer Park Association gratefully recognizes a generous contribution from the Municipality of Bluewater through the Community Grant and Vibrancy Fund Program in support of the Rummage Sale and Silent Auction.
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 issue
SUBMISSIONS
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Melody Falconer-Pounder
Our adventure continues this issue with our final two ports of call – Isafjordur and Reykjavik, Iceland.
Viking World Museum, replica ship Islendingur, Iceland
Isafjordur is one of the few Icelandic Westfjord settlements large enough to be considered a town. Boasting 2,700 residents it is the largest community on Iceland’s entire northwest peninsula.
It is noted in Iceland’s iconic medieval Book of Settlement, that the area was first settled in the 9th century. Isafjordur itself grew rapidly during the 16th century, becoming a center for trade and fishing thanks to its natural harbor. For decades Isafjordur’s claim to fame was as one of the largest fishing areas in the country, however, declines in local fish populations, fishing restrictions and more prominent fisheries in the country’s capital have led to a shift in the town’s economic focus gravitating toward tourism of which cruise ships play a large role. These ships first started visiting in the early to mid 1990s.
It has been reported that in 2025, Isafjordur may see 255,000 cruise ship passengers visit their town (with a daily limit of 5,000). My husband and I can now be counted as two of the multitudes.
We circumnavigated the village three times on foot – reaching 10,000 steps with relative ease. It was oddly quiet. It felt a little like the locals that aren’t providing essential services may go into hiding when the cruise ship docks alongside the pier. Perhaps it is their way of coping with gawking tourists taking photos, especially in Old Town where people live in wooden houses sporting corrugated tin roofs built by fishing merchants in the 18th and 19th centuries. These brightly colored buildings, a few of which have been charmingly battered by both wind and sea, were once used as trading posts, homes and warehouses. They now give visitors a glimpse into the town’s past and their citizens’ pride in preservation.
Early the next morning our ship docked in Reykjavik, Iceland. Back in 2017 we were fortunate enough to spend several days exploring the capital and in its surroundings so we decided to go on our only official ship organized shore excursion of the trip. The bus took us to a part of the country we had yet to explore with the added bonus that the tour ended at the airport. This proved to be quite convenient as we had a homeward bound flight booked for later that same day.
The bus tour and the guide who hosted it certainly did not disappoint. Our first stop was the “Bridge between Continents”, a symbolic footbridge where people can walk between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. We learned that they are the only two plates that are drifting apart rather than overlapping one another. The continuous drift of these two plates is the main cause for Iceland’s high volcanic activity.
After marveling at this sight for a brief time we were transported to the tip of the Reykjanes Peninsula to view the Reykjanes Lighthouse, the country’s oldest lighthouse constructed in 1908. About 15 km off shore lies Eldey Island, a popular habitat for cliff dwelling birds. It appeared like a mirage in the distance framed by hills that have been shaped over many years by volcanic eruptions and violent movements of the earth.
We then made our way a short distance to the bubbling hot spring, Gunnuhver, where evidence of how man has harnessed this geothermal energy for use in producing electricity could be found all around.
The final destination of the tour was the Viking World Museum where we got to inspect an exact replica of the famed Viking ship Gokstad. This ship known as the Islendingur, though now housed in the museum, is seaworthy. Twenty-five years ago, it sailed 4,200 nautical miles from Iceland to New York City, USA to commemorate Leif Erikson’s journey to the New World that had occurred more than a thousand years ago.
Viking ships, hot springs, tectonic plates, lighthouses and fishing villages – we packed a lot into the last two days of our vacation – just as we had the 10 days prior. Thanks for indulging me through my look back. I hope you enjoyed the journey as much as I did sharing it with you. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.