The Bayfield BreezeIssue 846 Week 39 Vol 17
September 24, 2025
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THE ALBION HOTEL FROM RUIN TO RESTORATION AND REOPENING
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
A new bar is ready to serve pub-goers. The previous bar all but fell apart when an attempt was made to move it. And it quickly became apparent that the bar had been reconstructed and added onto over many years. In fact, no one knows for certain if it was original to the building. It has been suggested that the first bar may have had a glass front.
On the afternoon of Feb. 25, Leigh and Jeff Graham invited me to step inside The Albion Hotel for a tour to view the state of the business since it sustained significant damage following the collapse of the iconic Main Street building’s roof in the early hours of Dec. 8, 2024. It was an experience that was both heartbreaking and hopeful.
On the afternoon of Sept. 21, Leigh greeted me at the front door of The Albion Hotel once again to see the progress that has been made in the last nine months.
The building has been restored thanks to the enthusiasm and vision of its owners. Their love for the space and their respect for its heritage and those that have cared for the place before them is evident in every decision they have made. And now the couple are busy making final preparations to invite the community back through their doors on the evening of Sept. 27. It will be the first time members of the public have been in the building since Dec. 7, 2024 and the Grahams are looking forward to the opportunity to thank the community for their ongoing support during the time since the roof collapsed.
Leigh is quick to point out that their official opening date is Monday, Sept. 29. The event this coming Saturday is a party that will be kicked off by a ribbon cutting sometime between 6-6:30 p.m. A community committee of about a dozen people have taken on the task of organizing the celebration as the Grahams and their team concentrate on the business of reopening for dining and accommodation.
The celebration will see Main Street closed in front of their business only and live music will be offered on a stage facing the hotel. Admission is free, no tickets are required and no reservations are being accepted. Pints and coolers will be served on the street for $5 – cash only. A limited menu will be offered inside and on the back patio. Leigh noted that there have been rumours of a “soft opening” circulating but that is simply not true.
In preparation for the reopening, the first two pints of beer from their existing Cobra taps have already been poured. Leigh had the honor of drinking one alongside Evan Bullen, owner of Parkside Sandwiches & Variety and the Woodland Drive In, who is also a beer tap specialist and longtime friend. The Grahams were fortunate to have him do the set up.
“I didn’t really want a beer at two o’clock in the afternoon but I had to drink it,” she said. One might say it was a symbolic gesture. The taps themselves were scuffed up a bit during the December incident but the couple decided to keep them as they are part of the story of what happened to the building. They are gleaming now despite their imperfections.
Everywhere you look modern touches blend seamlessly with nods to the building’s history.
“Everything brand new wouldn’t have been as good,” said Leigh. People may have questioned the couples’ desire to restore the pub’s floors as it was definitely extra work and extra money but they felt these floors were integral to the character of the building and they are quite pleased with the results. The floors in the entrance and the dining room are new but have been chosen to match the original and overtime should blend in seamlessly.
Due to the water damage, sections of the pub walls were falling off. The solution to this dilemma was to expose more of the charming brick behind – with at least one favorite mural being saved by keeping dehumidifiers blasting on it while they waited to have the new roof constructed. And there is a special new mural as well – a gift from neighbor and artist Jim Taleski, owner of Main Street Gallery. The mural depicts the inside of the Albion from a past era and it has been back lit and framed by an original window from the hotel which was salvaged during the renovations.
Little subtle nods to both community and family can be found in the reconstruction as well. The fireplace in the pub has been rebuilt using the traditional yellow Bayfield brick repurposed from the former St. James’ Middleton Anglican Church that once stood proudly on the corner of Huron County Road 13 and Tipperary Line. The mantle is lined with interesting decorative bottles that were a part of the Albion’s decor from years gone by. On the second floor the hotel rooms and their bathrooms have all been rebuilt and redecorated. A little bit of detail work on the corners in the hallway pay homage to Jeff’s late grandparents and well-known Bayfield residents, Wynn and Pat Graham, as some of the trim work was taken from their home, where Jeff’s dad now lives, and repurposed in the Albion.
“We really tried to keep the ambience of the hotel,” said Leigh. “Making the decisions, picking everything, ensuring elements of the old remained, staying within budget, knowing when to splurge and when to pull back was really stressful. But seeing it now, and how it has come together, and being happy with it, has helped.”
The iconic veranda is currently being rebuilt on the front of the building and is a work in progress. The second floor has been widened by four feet so that it is aligned with the main level and the railings will be built to code which is at a higher height than the days of yore. The fancy scrollwork will be returned to the porch when the work is complete. These pieces are currently on order.
Leigh was pleased to share that the overwhelming majority of their staff will be returning to work and a few have already returned to get the bar and kitchen back in order.
She also wanted to let people know that her email inbox is filled to the brim these days and she is finding it challenging to keep up with responses.
“I want everyone to know that I am not ignoring them. Once our team is back in place I will respond,” she said.
Jeff took on the role of contractor during the rebuild and it was important to both of them to hire local trades and craftsmen.
“It was important to us to have local businesses work on the project, people that were from the area, would come into The Albion for lunch, people that knew Jeff and I, because they simply cared more,” said Leigh.
And this care shows in every aspect of the transformation – from ruin to restoration – something that the community will no doubt be enthusiastic to see once the ribbon is cut on Sept. 27.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY UNVEILS SPECIAL HOTELS EXHIBIT
One of four original hotels, The Albion Hotel dates back to 1840, serving as a welcoming refuge for travellers. At the time, the hotel housed a general store, the first retail operation in Bayfield. As the village’s shipping industry grew, so did the number of travellers passing through, prompting the then hotel owners to build a second story. The addition was completed in 1856, transforming The Albion into the new Georgian brick stagecoach hotel and barn on Main Street. (Image donated by Elva Metcalf, Bayfield Historical Society)
As Bayfield looks forward to the much-awaited reopening of The Albion Hotel on Saturday, Sept. 27, the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) is excited to launch the “Original Hotels of Bayfield Project”, an online exhibit honoring the enduring legacy of The Albion, The Little Inn, The River Hotel and The Ritz Hotel — Bayfield’s four original hotels.
In the 1840s, Bayfield began to thrive as an agricultural shipping port. When wagon drivers dropped off their products for shipment after long voyages, hotel accommodations and services were gaining popularity. When the economy shifted towards fishing in the 19th century, fishermen brought business to these establishments. As Bayfield prospered and grew in popularity as a vacation and tourist destination, these hotels became key contributors to the local economy, providing unique experiences for tourists and residents.
The online exhibit provides an in-depth historical timeline of the hotels, highlighting the various iterations of each property, their heritage value and distinctive architectural style, in an easy-to-read format with stunning vintage and modern photos and explanatory architectural renderings.
“Despite their evolution, The Albion and The Little Inn have retained their authenticity and are in themselves stewards of our history and storytellers of our rich culture,” explained Julia Armstrong, BHS board member, who manages the Society’s archival collections. “We’re fortunate to have images of these buildings that show us how they appeared in the past.”
How did the idea for the project come together?
While reviewing information about the village’s heritage buildings, the BHS was also in the process of hiring a summer intern through the Canada Summer Jobs program. As luck would have it, the chosen candidate, Natalie Murdoch, had a Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Studies with a specialization in building conservation and rehabilitation.
In consultation with the Bayfield Heritage Conservation District Plan and Guidelines, Murdoch, a graduate of Carleton University, spent the summer researching, developing, and designing a website exhibit that would pay tribute to Bayfield’s four original hotels, including The Albion.
“We’re grateful for Natalie’s work and invite everyone to visit our online exhibit. It is a wonderful portal to these treasured and beloved landmarks and a reminder of their role in helping to create a sense of community and belonging in our village,” added Armstrong.
To explore the visit: Original Hotels of Bayfield Project. And watch for a window display featuring images from this collection and the Project. Some of these will be on display for the reopening celebration this Saturday.
FARMERS’ MARKET PRODUCTS AVAILABLE ALL YEAR LONG
The Bayfield Farmers’ Market invites residents and visitors to experience the very best in locally grown food, artisan goods, and small-batch specialties – all year long.
From Spring through Fall, the market transforms Clan Gregor Square into a lively community hub every Friday from the Victoria Day weekend in May to Thanksgiving weekend, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Shoppers can browse a vibrant selection of fresh, seasonal produce from nearby farms; artisan baked goods, preserves, and specialty foods; local meats, cheeses, and farm-fresh eggs; handcrafted art, gifts, and home décor; Maple syrup, seasonal flowers, wine, and more.
Live music is often enjoyed by market goers while enjoying take out from the food vendors.
When the outdoor market season winds down, the Bayfield Farmers’ Market continues to connect shoppers and producers through its bi-weekly online marketplace.
Customers can place orders Friday to Monday through Shop Bayfield Farmers’ Market, then pick up their goods at a convenient Bayfield location every other Friday throughout the winter. This easy, click-and-collect service means fresh, local food – from vegetables and meats to baked treats and preserves – remains available even in the colder months. Orders can be paid by E-transfer or credit card. Delivery within the Bayfield area is available for $5. Dates are posted on social media and once a person makes an order, they are added to the mailing list to receive reminders.
“Our year-round model keeps the community connected to fresh, local food and helps our vendors sustain their small businesses,” said Heidi Klopp, Market vendor and volunteer. “Whether you’re strolling the market on a sunny summer Friday or picking up an online order in January, you’re supporting local families and strengthening our rural economy.”
Founded in 2014, the Bayfield Farmers’ Market is a volunteer/vendor-run, not-for-profit community hub dedicated to supporting local growers, food producers, and artisans. The market fosters sustainability, promotes healthy eating, and creates a friendly gathering place – both in person and online.
AG SOCIETY TO MARK ANNIVERSARY WITH RECIPE BOOK
The Bayfield Agricultural Society is planning a commemorative recipe book with stories to celebrate 170 years of the Society as an incorporated organization in the Bayfield community. Members of the community are invited to be part of the celebration by contributing family-favorite recipes and stories or anecdotes about the Society and the Bayfield Fair. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) will be celebrating its 170th anniversary next year. No, that’s not a misprint. The BAS was formed in 1856, more than 10 years before Confederation and has been in continuous operation ever since then!
One of the special activities planned to celebrate this special anniversary is the creation of a commemorative recipe book as a fundraiser. This commemorative book will contain family-favorite recipes interspersed with shared stories and anecdotes or memories about the BAS and the fair. Everyone has a story! This is the perfect opportunity to get those memories into print and share them with others.
The BAS is inviting community members to send recipes and stories in Word format or in handwriting. Anyone submitting is kindly asked to use Imperial measurement units (teaspoon, tablespoon, cups, etc.) for the recipes.
All submissions should be forwarded before Nov. 30th to bas170cookbook@gmail.com. Handwritten submissions can be scanned and sent to the same email address. If needed, a board member can arrange to pick up handwritten submissions within the local area.
The completed book of recipes and stories is expected to be available by the summer of 2026 to purchase as gifts for friends and loved ones or as a keepsake to celebrate 170 years of BAS as an incorporated organization in the Bayfield community.
There are business advertising opportunities as well to help offset the cost of printing. The rates are: $25 for quarter page (business card size) and $50 for half page with the artwork to be submitted. Please send advertising requests to the above email address and a committee member will be in touch.
Stories are important and so is good food – one nourishes the soul and the other the body. The BAS hopes that this commemorative book will satisfy the nourishment of both.
KITTENS WITH MUNCHKIN GENES READY TO GO
Dorothy, Toto and Glinda (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) held a “Kittenpalooza” on Saturday, Sept. 20 and with one-third of the 30 kittens, ready to go, finding their forever homes, organizers have deemed the event a great success. But the hard truth remains that about 20 kittens and many adult cats still need homes to go to. Four of these delightful creatures are featured this week.
Mama Britannia is a Munchkin. (Submitted photo)
Dorothy, Toto and Glinda are the Adopt a BFF kittens of the week alongside their Mama Britannia.
Britannia was noticed wandering the streets in a neighboring community last Winter. It turned out she’d been living under the deck of a vacant house for months. Someone happened to see her and was concerned that she was pregnant.
“It was then that one of our fabulous volunteers struck out immediately to see if she could help and she was able to capture Britannia within hours,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.
Penhale went on to say that it was then confirmed that Britannia was indeed pregnant.
“The woman who was so gracious to rescue her from the streets agreed to foster her until she had her babies,” said Penhale. “The interesting thing about Britannia is, not only is she a fabulous mother, she’s a very special girl as she is a Munchkin cat.”
Munchkin cats have shortened or dwarfed legs. Two of Britannia’s babies, Dorothy and Toto, have legs of regular length while the third one, Glinda, is also a Munchkin.
Dorothy had a leg amputated recently but is hasn’t slowed her down! (Submitted photo)
“When Dorothy was born, she was missing a bone and ligaments in her one hind leg. It was determined that she would need to have that leg amputated, but it couldn’t be done until she was much bigger,” said Penhale. “Sweet Dorothy had her surgery a week ago but nothing has slowed this girl down since. She really wasn’t able to use that leg at all before anyway. Dorothy also looks like her Mama as she too is a soft muted Calico Tabby.
“We shudder to think what four young female cats may have produced if left to roam the streets. In the time since Mama was brought in there could very likely have been 20 more kittens born,” said Penhale. “But that cycle has been stopped as all of this trio of gorgeous kittens and Mama have been spayed, have had their shots and are ready for their forever homes!”
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting Britannia, Dorothy, Toto and/or Glinda, a 2025 kitten or 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.
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.
THANKSGIVING FIREWORKS
Hundreds of people gathered in Bayfield Agricultural Park to enjoy the fireworks presentation on the opening night of the 2024 Bayfield Fair. Many stayed afterward to socialize with family, friends, and neighbors. The Bayfield Agricultural Society looks forward to another great turnout for the show this year – this time in October! (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) is excited to share some big news! The BAS was able to reschedule the fireworks presentation that had been planned for the opening night of the 2025 Bayfield Community Fair back in August. The Bayfield Fair fireworks had to be cancelled due to the burn ban in place at the time.
The new date is Saturday, Oct.11 on Thanksgiving weekend. The location is Bayfield Agricultural Park – 1 Fry Street in Bayfield.
Come early and enjoy the live music starting at 7 p.m. The fireworks will start at 8:00 p.m.
The BAS offers special thanks to the following sponsors for their generous donations, which make the fireworks presentation possible: Compass Minerals, Dave’s Painting & Decorating, Den-Way Auto Body Ltd., Ferguson Plumbing & Electrical, McGee Motors, Merner Contracting, Municipality of Bluewater, Pinnacle Quality Homes, and Tuckersmith Communications Co-operative.
CHOCOLATEY MINT COOKIES
Chocolatey Mint Girl Guide cookies are available now from members of Bayfield Guiding!
They are $6 a box and are selling fast so purchase soon to avoid disappointment.
Anyone not familiar with a youth member who would like to purchase a box or two is encouraged to call Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com.
STORY CIRCLE
A six-week, free, “Story Circle” program is being offered by facilitator Sheila Macgregor on Tuesdays starting on Nov. 4 in the hall at St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield.
Macgregor notes that participants are not required to share anything they’re not comfortable with but attend the weekly sessions, reflecting silently or sharing as they choose.
The program will be offered from 1:30-3:30 p.m. and all participants need to bring is a love of stories, curiosity, and fun.
Registration for the Story Circle program is required by Monday, Oct. 20. Please contact Sheila Macgregor by calling 519 235-0613 or via email at sheilagmacgregor@gmail.com.
BE A HERO
The Bayfield Branch Library is currently accepting donations of Marvel Stickers. (Submitted photo)
Calling all Bayfield superheroes! Zehrs/No Frills/Independent is running their “Be a Hero” Marvel sticker promo again, and the folks at the Bayfield Branch Library would love some help from people with regards to these stickers.
With every purchase at the stores, shoppers will receive free Marvel stickers – and staff at the Bayfield Library are collecting them. Why? Because they’re setting up a Marvel Sticker Trading Station for kids and families! Last year, thanks to the community’s generosity, they collected over 3,000 cards between the Goderich and Bayfield Branches. Dozens of kids were able to complete their collections, and they donated the extras to the local after-school program.
Please drop stickers off at the Bayfield Library anytime during branch hours, and help bring the fun (and trading power!) back to the community this year. Let’s make this another super success – together!
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
BAYFIELD 1-5-0
Next year, 2026 will mark 150 years since Bayfield was incorporated as a village and that is reason to celebrate!
The “Bayfield 150” Committee held its very first meeting just last week and the members are buzzing with exciting ideas and big plans to make this milestone unforgettable. But they don’t want to keep all the fun to themselves – anyone who is passionate about community, history or celebrations are invited to be a part of the planning either by joining the team or just passing along their great ideas.
Big things are certainly on the horizon as the village prepares to mark its 150th anniversary! People can get in touch with the committee by email at Bayfield150years@gmail.com.
SOUNDS OF AUTUMN
Although the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) has successfully reached its fundraising target to complete renovations to its new home, work continues to support those in need, particularly as Fall and the Thanksgiving season approaches with its cooler weather. To this end, a trio of local ladies have “banded” together to create a one-hour musical concert titled, “Sounds of Autumn”.
Mary McGoldrick, piano; Martha Lawrance, harp; and Danuta Wyant, cello will join together to offer musical selections which will include, celtic tunes, pop classics and more!
The concert will be held on Sunday, Oct. 5 at 3 p.m. at St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield.
Any, and all, proceeds including non-perishable food and personal care items will be received directly onsite by the BAFB. Claire Trepanier, president of the BAFB Board of Directors, notes that tuna, soup and peanut butter are most needed at this time.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in the village.
AGING BY THE BOOK
“Aging by the Book: A Reading Circle” is a new discussion group that will be offered at the Bayfield Branch Library from Oct. 15 to Nov. 19.
The group will use writings from a variety of authors to inspire meaningful conversations about aging. These guided sessions will offer older adults a chance to connect, reflect, and share experiences on topics that often arise later in life.
Who can join? Adults in their 60s, 70s and 80s, those newly retired or preparing for retirement, and anyone interested in exploring changing relationships with parents or adult children.
The discussion group will meet from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Registration opens on Sept. 10. To register please email bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca or call 519 565-2886.
This program is offered independent of library staff and will be led by passionate community members. It is generously sponsored by Friends of Bayfield Library.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
TRINITY ST. JAMES CHAPEL
In the remainder of 2025, two services are planned for the Trinity St James Chapel of Ease and it is the hope of those maintaining this beautiful chapel that members of all denominations will come and join in the spirit of celebration. Families are welcome! (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Trinity St. James Chapel will host the fourth in their series of six services for 2025 on Sunday, Oct. 5.
The Harvest of Thanks Service will be held starting at 2:30 p.m. led by Rev’d Justin Comber and is open to all in the community, including families. Just prior to the service at 2 p.m. a sing-along will be held. Anyone who enjoys singing is sure to delight in this sing-along featuring some popular hymns and secular favorites celebrating the harvest season. Following the service there will be a time of fellowship and refreshment in the TSJ Hall.
Formerly known as the Parish Hall, the TSJ Hall, located at 10 Keith Crescent in the village, is now operated for community use by an Association and is available to rent for such uses as club and business meetings, family gatherings or events including, weddings and funerals.
The TSJ Hall and Trinity St James Chapel now has a dedicated website and people are invited to visit it to learn more about events and rental opportunities at www.trinitystjamesbayfield.com.
TOWN HALL
The Bayfield Town Hall is seeking a part-time Caretaker/Custodian for its historic building.
The Custodian will be responsible for keeping the Town Hall in a clean, presentable and organised manner for the events that take place throughout the year. Hours are flexible, but not necessarily consistent, as the level of activity at the Town Hall fluctuates from week to week. Hours average 30-35 hours per month from May to October and 10 to 15 hours per month November to April.
Previous experience in a custodian role would be an advantage. Applicants must be able to work alone and be capable of some heavy lifting.
This is a paid position. For more information, and a full job description, please contact Diane Snell via email at diane@dianesnell.ca.
MAHJONG
Mahjong has returned after a summer hiatus and will be held on Wednesdays at the Bayfield Branch Library. The program will now run weekly!
Anyone who would like to learn this fun tile game are invited to join returning players starting at 1:30 p.m. Instruction will be given to those wanting to learn. Individuals who already know how to play are encouraged to come out to enjoy meeting others in a social setting.
Those who would like to learn more about MahJong are asked to please contact Marlene McDougall by calling 226 441-2075 or emailing marlenemcdougall7@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
The Bayfield Before & After School Program (BASP) offers a safe, enriching, and licensed child care option conveniently located at the Bayfield Community Centre and organizers are gearing up for a new School Year.
Open Monday to Friday, the program runs from 6:30-8 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m., supporting busy families with flexible, high-quality care.
Designed for children ages four to 12, the program accommodates up to 15 children per session and focuses on four key learning areas: Expression, Well-Being, Engagement, and Belonging. Children enjoy a variety of activities and receive a light snack during each session.
It is important to note that parents/guardians are responsible for arranging school bus transportation to and from the Bayfield Community Centre.
The Program Director is Emma Campbell, who is a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE) with over 30 years of experience working in education. She brings a warm, inclusive, and creative approach to child care, drawing from her background in special education, music, and theatre. Campbell’s passion for fostering curiosity and confidence in children makes the Bayfield BASP a nurturing space where every child feels supported, engaged, and inspired,
For more information, contact: BayfieldBASP@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Community Centre is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
HURON COUNTY AUTHORS
Huron County Authors will host an “Author Hour” at the Bayfield Branch Library on Thursday, Sept. 11 featuring writers Brad and Elsie Seltzer. This September session is now fully booked. Due to popular demand a second evening has been added on Tuesday, Oct. 7.
Starting at 5:30 p.m., the couple will share the powerful story behind their book, “The Dutchman’s Suitcase” which was inspired by Elsie’s father’s experiences during World War II. Those who attend will hear firsthand how history and personal memories intertwine in this unforgettable narrative of courage, survival and resilience.
Space is limited for this free event and registration is required. To register visit: Huron County Authors.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Bayfield Main Street North in the village.
BAYFIELD CALENDAR
The Bayfield Lions Club is proud to announce that their 2026 Bayfield Calendar is now for sale. This is the 16th edition of the calendar and the 14th as a joint project of the Bayfield Lions and the Photography Club of Bayfield.
These beautiful calendars would make an ideal Christmas gift or souvenir and can be purchased for $20 from any Lion member as well as from Bayfield’s premiere volunteer salesperson, Justyne Chojnacka. The calendars can also be purchased at Bayfield Convenience and Gifts, Bayfield Foodland, or The Village Bookshop or by going directly to www.bayfieldcalendar.ca and following the instructions there.
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 the end of 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.
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
The Bayfield Bridge Club meets on Wednesday afternoons at 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.
INFRASTRUCTURE RENEWAL PROJECTS COMPLETED
On Sept. 19, a celebration was held at Clinton Public Hospital (CPH) in recognition of the work completed at the facility thanks to the support from the Ontario government’s Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund. Taking part in the event were from l-r: Kevin Longpre, contractor, Tektum Consulting Group; Curtis Agar, project manager, Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA); Andrew Williams, president and CEO, HPHA; Sarah Brenneman, Clinton Inpatient and ED Manager, HPHA; Alison Lobb, council member, Municipality of Central Huron; MPP Lisa Thompson; Doug Biesinger director, Facilities Management, HPHA; and Greg Stewart, Vice chair, HPHA Board of Directors. (Submitted photo)
The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) is delighted to share that, with support from the Ontario government’s Health Infrastructure Renewal Fund (HIRF), important infrastructure renewal projects have been completed at Clinton Public Hospital (CPH).
The restoration of the 62 Wing roof has strengthened the integrity of the facility, improved building performance, and ensured a safe space for all. This project, along with interior fire door replacements, roof safety railings, and brick restoration, were made possible through this critical provincial funding.
Previously restored in the 1980s, the 62 Wing roof was in urgent need of replacement to address outdated grading and drainage systems. Thanks to the support of HIRF funding, this project is now complete, helping ensure the longevity of this facility for years to come.
“This investment from the province allows us to continue providing high-quality, safe care in a secure and efficient environment,” said HPHA President and CEO, Andrew Williams. “Restoring this section of our roof ensures that we can maintain critical infrastructure while also improving energy efficiency and patient comfort.”
Upgrading the insulation to an average R-value of R26.5 will result in measurable environmental benefits, such as: 219 kWh in electricity use; 753 cubic metres of natural gas; and 3.5 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. This reduction in energy consumption is a meaningful step toward HPHA’s sustainability goals.
All involved extend their sincere thanks to the province and MPP Lisa Thompson, whose advocacy secured this critical funding. This investment supports CPH in remaining a dependable facility where care can be delivered close to home.
RADIOTHON FOR HOMETOWN HEALTH A COMMUNITY TRADITION
The Alexandra Marine & General Hospital Foundation (AMGHF) is excited to host its Annual Radiothon in partnership with Shoreline Classics FM.
All are invited to join in the fun to be held on Thanksgiving Friday, Oct. 10, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Zehrs in Goderich, where 99.7 Shoreline Classics FM will be broadcasting live all day.
The Radiothon is becoming a beloved community tradition that raises essential funds for local healthcare, bringing people together to celebrate and give back. This year, supporters can also enjoy a BBQ on site and take part in “Hour Power” prize draws throughout the day, adding to the fun and excitement.
Due to the Canada Post strike, the Foundation is unable to mail out its annual donation postcards. However, the need for community support has never been greater.
“We’re inviting everyone to come out to Zehrs on Thanksgiving Friday,” said Kimberley Payne, Executive director, AMGHF. “Enjoy a BBQ lunch, enter to win great prizes, and most importantly, make a difference in local healthcare.”
There are several convenient ways to contribute to this year’s Radiothon:
- In-person: Visit Zehrs in Goderich on Oct. 10.
- E-transfer: Send a gift to amgh.foundation@amgh.ca. please put Radiothon in the memo
- By phone: Call 519 524-8508.
- Online: Donate securely at www.amghfoundation.ca.
- Mail: 120 Napier St. Goderich, N7A 2H4 please put Radiothon in the memo
This Thanksgiving, show gratitude by giving back to local healthcare. Stop by the Radiothon, enjoy the BBQ, and take a chance at winning exciting prizes — all while supporting care close to home.
Zehrs is located at 35400D Huron Road in Goderich.
GRANTING PROGRAM STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY
The Sunset Community Foundation’s annual Greater Grand Bend Area Community Granting Program is once again accepting applications from eligible organizations for programs and activities. Last fall, 25 programs received grants from this fund group, enhancing the vitality and well-being of Greater Grand Bend Area residents.
“Every grant is an investment in the people and projects that keep our community thriving,” said Pete Janzen, chair of the Greater Grand Bend Advisory Committee. “When local people work together, amazing things happen. Thanks to our funders’ generosity, this granting program supports projects that touch every part of life – giving community organizations the resources to dream bigger, reach further, and strengthen the very fabric of our community.”
The Greater Grand Bend Advisory Committee will review all submissions in mid-October, with funding decisions communicated by early November.
“We encourage applicants to connect directly with us before applying,” said Lisa Reaume, Executive director. “This conversation can help clarify program parameters and strengthen proposals. Every year, we’re inspired by the creativity and commitment shown in the applications we receive.”
The original Grand Bend Community Foundation was founded in 2001 with $1.5 million in proceeds from the sale of the Grand Bend Public Utilities Commission. Today, Sunset Community Foundation’s total endowment has grown to over $3.6 million.
Greater Grand Bend Area Community Funds support a diverse range of local initiatives and are made up of the following: Founding PUC Community Fund; Community Contribution Fund; Charlotte Edwards Robinson Memorial Fund; Environment Legacy Fund; Grand Men Fund; Grand Women Fund; Hay Communications Fund; Krech Family Fund; M.J. Muma Endowment Fund; Relouw Fund; Sabourin Family Endowment Fund; Stephanie and Ted Donaldson Family Fund; and Winters Family Fund.
Grants are offered in the following areas of interest: Children & Youth; Family & Community; Health & Physical Activity; Education; Social Services & Low Income Impact; Preservation of the Environment; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging; and Arts & Culture.
Applications are accepted online only and must be submitted by midnight on Sept. 30,
To learn more or submit an application, visit: Grants; Application Form; and Grants to Date.
LIVERY FILM FEST
“The Life of Chuck” is coming to Goderich for one night only!
The Livery Film Fest is excited to welcome back movie fans for another season of films that are sure to surprise, move, inspire and challenge viewers in exciting and unexpected ways. There’s something truly irreplaceable about seeing a film on the big screen. It isn’t just about size — it’s about immersion. Sitting in the dark with others, people laugh together, gasp together, feel the tension build together. That collective energy transforms a story into an experience.
The next film to be presented by the Livery Film Fest is The Life of Chuck. It will play for one night only at the Park Theatre in Goderich, tomorrow, on (Sept. 25) at 7 p.m. The box office opens at 6:30 p.m.
The Life of Chuck is a fantasy drama written and directed by Michael Flanagan, adapted from Stephen King’s 2020 novella. Told in reverse chronology, the film traces the defining moments in the life of Chuck Krantz – beginning with his death, which coincides with the end of the universe, and moving back through his childhood.
Flanagan has described the project as, “so rare to work on something so meaningful, so unique, so distinct, and so earnest. This is a story without a cynical bone in its body.”
The Life of Chuck won the coveted People’s Choice Award at TIFF in 2024. This film is highly recommended.
Skip-the-Line Movie Passes will be available to purchase outside the cinema. Purchase four passes for $40 for non-members or $35 for Livery members. Livery memberships can be purchased online www.thelivery.ca. Memberships and passes expire Aug. 31st, 2026. General admission is $12.
The Park Theatre is located at 30 Courthouse Square in Goderich.
HPPH
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is looking for a dog involved in an incident in Seaforth on Saturday, Sept. 20, at approximately 1:15 p.m. The incident took place in front of The Candy Store located at 2 Main Street South, Seaforth.
The dog involved in the incident is described as black and is believed to be a Husky. An individual wearing glasses, and with blond hair in a ponytail, was walking the dog on a leash at the time of the incident.
The health unit is investigating this incident to check if the rabies vaccination status of the dog is up to date.
HPPH reminds people to always obtain the contact information of the owner(s) of the animal that is involved in an incident.
Anyone who has information about this dog should contact HPPH at 1-888-221-2133 Ext. 3670. After hours or over the weekend, call the main number and follow the prompts to reach their answering service.
UNITED WAY NORTH
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is launching its 2025–26 annual fundraising campaign in Northern Huron with a community celebration and the return of the popular Loone Toonie Auction.
The event takes place Saturday, Sept. 27 at the Blyth Arena and Community Centre at 6 p.m., with the auction running from 7-9 p.m. Attendees can choose between an all-in package for $60 – including all bids, pizza and a pop (a $72 value) or à la carte pricing with paddles for $5 and bid tickets available for $1 and $2. Tickets are available at Penny’s of Blyth.
The evening also marks the official announcement of UWPH’s 2025–26 campaign goal.
“We’re thrilled to kick off our campaign in Northern Huron with an event that brings people together in a fun way,” said Lisa Harper, UWPH’s manager, Community Development, Northern Huron. “Every bid helps support the work we do in the community, and we’re looking forward to sharing our goal and building momentum for the year ahead.”
Money raised supports United Way’s Northern Huron Connection Centre (NHCC), located at St. Paul’s Trinity Anglican Church in Wingham. Operated by CMHA Huron Perth, the NHCC is a housing-based poverty reduction service helping those experiencing homelessness or who are otherwise vulnerable. Staff collaborate with community service partners to provide wrap-around support such as trauma-informed care, addiction, and mental health counselling, along with basic needs including food, clothing, showers, laundry facilities and a warming/cooling space.
For more information, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
The Blyth Arena and Community Centre is located at 377 Gypsy Lane in the village.
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.
Following the excitement of the Main Street Art Festival held in Bayfield on Sept. 21, we share a painting which is part of the Huron County Museum art collection…
WINTER WALK PAINTING
This is a framed color painting by Sheila Laidlaw-Folkard (Radford) from 1972. It depicts two boys (Laidlaw-Folkard’s sons) walking along a snowy, wooded trail beside a lake. The frame is made from brown wood.
Sheila Folkard had taken time off from her teaching career to allow time to take art classes and pursue her desire and talent in the art world. This painting of her two sons in an outdoor setting depicts one of the mediums and focuses which she explored.
Raised with her big sister and a brother on a farm outside Wingham, ON, Sheila tried to visit her father and her stepmother who still resided there whenever she could. Sheila would later remarry, and much of her artistic work was done under the name Sheila Laidlaw-Radford.
Screenshot
"Folkard Boys on a Winter Walk" - Sheila Folkard-Laidlaw
MAIN STREET ART FESTIVAL
VILLAGE ROLLS OUT METAPHORICAL RED CARPET FOR AFTERNOON OF ART
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
The Main Street Arts Festival was a three day celebration of arts and culture across Huron County from Sept. 19-21. Special events were held in Blyth on the Friday and Exeter on the Saturday with the event culminating in Bayfield on Sunday afternoon.
Bayfield is home to a thriving arts community and the village rolled out the metaphorical red carpet – by closing off Main Street to vehicular traffic – to welcome both residents and visitors for an afternoon of art immersion.
The closed street allowed for a very relaxed atmosphere where visitors and residents could stroll at their leisure and socialize with one another. Live musical entertainment this year was provided by village favorite, Jason & the Nomads as well as Dave Neigh – The Tuba Machine on his inaugural visit. A real crowd pleaser was Cear Crodoba featuring two of his bike powered projects – a bird and a fish – after all it isn’t every day that people witness a giant fish “swimming” up the street!
Local businesses hosted visiting artists as well as showcased the work of their in-house artists with the work of 15 plus professional artists, sculptors, photographers and wood workers on display both indoors and out with tents set up along the street. A few of the artists were actively creating during the event and this allowed people to watch the process first hand. And of course all were open to chatting about their passion.
Local folks with a talent for art and photography also set up displays of their work for purchase – a large contingent from the Bayfield Artist Guild had an exhibit in front of and around The Village Bookshop while the Photography Club of Bayfield had a display in the Community Room at 1851 Bayfield Landing. The Village Bookshop hosted an Author Talk featuring Linda McQuaig who spoke about her novel, “The Road to Goderich”. The Author Talk was held on the patio at 1851 Bayfield Landing to an appreciative audience. It is interesting to note that McQuaig’s book has become the best seller for The Village Bookshop over the summer, outselling Carley Fortune’s “One Golden Summer” by two to one.
Attendees were able to participate in engaging activities such as petal painting and making cyanotype prints with Abigail Bos; block printing a bookmark with Autumn Ducharme; and crafting animal costumes and props with Trash Theatre; making the event interactive and fun for all ages. The Bayfield Historical Society also offered up a Scavenger Hunt and inside the meeting room at the Bayfield Branch Library people had the opportunity to paint a wooden fish with guidance from artist Josslyn Hagen. The painted laser cut wooden fish represent species native to Lake Huron and the plan is to have them displayed as an art installation inside the library.
The day concluded with a little parade of participants from the Trash Theatre activities alongside The Tuba Man and Animal Kinetic Project.
Overall the day was a lot of fun for both artists and patrons of the arts and a great way to mark the last official full day of Summer 2025 – even the weather cooperated with warm temps and clear skies!
“This year’s Main Street Arts Festival was an incredible event filled with creativity, connection and community spirit. A huge thank you goes out to all the artists, vendors, galleries, and partners who helped bring this event to life. We are also very grateful to everyone who came out and supported the arts,” said Amy Zoethout, Marketing and Branding coordinator for Cultural Services – Huron County.
The Festival was produced by the Huron Cultural Office of the County of Huron in conjunction with the Municipality of Bluewater, Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce, Welcoming Week, Blyth Festival Art Gallery, Culture Days and the Ontario Arts Council.
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
“We Lend a Hand – The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes” is a must see film! I was fortunate enough to join seven members of Bayfield Guiding, including the Pathfinders, our most senior members, to view the documentary when it was presented at the Bayfield Town Hall on the evening of Sept. 17.
I was so excited when these tickets went on sale because in the six years since Bonnie Sitter and the late Shirleyan English published their book, “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes” I have wanted to somehow incorporate the story of these unsung heroes of the second World War into our Pathfinder program. Afterall, the film tells the story of girls not much older than themselves. Girls with no farming experience who left home to work in the fields weeding and harvesting to ensure “the production of hundreds of thousands of tons of food which was shipped off to the frontlines to feed starving European populations and even prisoners of war.”
Before we entered the town hall, one of our youth shared with me that she thought history was boring, and while I admired her honesty, I couldn’t help feeling a little sad for her and hoped that she would have a different opinion when the credits rolled. I couldn’t help but glance over at her occasionally as the film progressed and the audience reacted with laughter and empathy as the Farmerettes, many of those surviving now in their late 90s, were interviewed to see how she was reacting. The women shared with great humour, humility and honesty their recollections of one of the most remarkable times of their lives. I am happy to report that this Pathfinder appeared absorbed in the story and also seemed engaged in the question and answer period that followed with Bonnie Sitter and Director Colin Field, the visionary behind the film.
Learning about the challenges and the costs involved in bringing the film to fruition was fascinating. After a great deal of research, the team discovered three minutes of actual film footage of Farmerettes working in the field safely locked away in the archives of the National Film Board. They then had to raise an astounding amount of money to pay to use that footage in the documentary. This footage, along with reenactments by three local women, interspersed with facts about Ontario’s food production during the war, Bonnie and Shirleyan’s revisiting of some of the farms where many of the Farmerettes camps were located, and the interviews with the Farmerettes themselves, made for a very heartwarming look at an aspect of our country’s history that would very likely have been lost in time if Bonnie Sitter hadn’t been curious about a tiny black and white photograph found amongst her late husband’s belongings that bore the words, “Farmerettes 1946”. – Melody
P.S. Thank you to Bonnie Bayham for sponsoring the two viewings of this documentary (there was a sold-out afternoon show as well) in honor of her late husband, Scott Rundle, who was a great champion of the film. For anyone who would like to know where the documentary will be travelling to next visit: We Lend a Hand.
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.