“THANKSGIVING IN THE PARK” A TIME OF CELEBRATION FOR FAMILIES
STORY BY JANET VOGELSANG

Fireworks lit up the sky over the park in brilliant shades of red, green, blue, yellow, and bright white. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) hosted a “Thanksgiving in the Park” fireworks and music event on Saturday evening, Oct. 11, in Agricultural Park.
Groups of people started arriving long before the scheduled 8 p.m. start of the fireworks display. Some staked out their seats on the bleachers and many set up their lawn chairs and blankets on the grass. Before long, the park was alive with the sounds of hundreds of people greeting each other and chatting with family members, friends, and neighbors. It was a delight to see so many children happily playing in the park while they patiently waited for the fireworks to begin.
From the lit-up pavilion, Jason & The Nomads entertained everyone for an hour before the fireworks began with his “rockabilly” style of music. Large groups of people gathered around the pavilion with their lawn chairs to enjoy the energetic, toe-tapping music. Some parents with small children even came into the pavilion to get a closer look and dance to the music.
At 8 p.m., the park went dark as the ball field lights were turned off. Jason then led the crowd in a rousing count-down that signalled the fireworks were about to begin. Fireworks lit up the sky over the park and bathed the surrounding trees in brilliant shades of red, green, blue, yellow, and bright white.
The Bayfield Optimist Club joined in the celebration with popcorn and glow sticks for the children. It was amazing to see the long loops and circles of glow sticks fashioned by some very creative children. The BAS offers special thanks to the Bayfield Optimist Club volunteers who came out and helped to make the evening so memorable for families with young children.
Bayfield Area Food Bank volunteers were also present to collect cash and food donations to assist those in the area who need a helping hand, especially at this time of year. As always, the Bayfield community was very generous.
Following the fireworks, many people stayed and wandered over to the ball diamond area, where Lance Bedard continued the musical entertainment from the Bayfield Lions Club stage well into the evening. This part of the entertainment featured a cash bar and a large area for visitors to dance and mingle.
Looking back on the evening, the big story to share is that hundreds of people of all ages came together as a community to celebrate “Thanksgiving in the Park”. Having to cancel the fireworks in August due to the burn ban was a disappointment, but creating a rescheduled event that combined fireworks and music around Thanksgiving weekend when so many families are together worked out just splendidly.
The BAS thanks the dedicated group of volunteers who helped to make Saturday’s event possible. Thank you also to the community who came out in large numbers to attend the fireworks display and celebrate together in the park.






RIBBON CUTTING UPCOMING AT THE BAYFIELD RIVER FLATS

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) and the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy (HTLTC) will be celebrating the completion of two projects at the Bayfield River Flats Natural Area on Saturday, Oct. 25. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) and the Huron Tract Land Trust Conservancy (HTLTC) will be celebrating the completion of two projects at the Bayfield River Flats Natural Area on Saturday, Oct. 25.
People are invited to attend at 10:30 a.m. at the Flats for a ribbon cutting ceremony followed by an informative, guided hike at 11 a.m. The two projects being celebrated are the new canoe and kayak launch and the riverbank erosion protection project which uses innovative natural means.
The project for natural protection of the riverbank from erosion is made possible thanks to support from provincial and county partners. The project, which will include planting of native trees and shrubs in the Spring, is restoring 300 square metres of riverbank and improving the natural fish habitat there. The project team thanks all granting organisations for the natural protection from erosion project, including the lead funder for that project, the Province of Ontario through the Ontario Community Environment Fund (OCEF).
A generous and significant donation from a community donor made the canoe and kayak launch possible. Building upon the foundation of that generosity, additional community donations helped the fundraising committee reach and exceed a $20,000 goal.
The Bayfield River Flats Natural Area is permanently protected by the HTLTC as habitat for wildlife and as a recreation destination. BRVTA volunteers maintain the trail at no cost to the public. To learn more, visit: Bayfield River Flats and Bayfield Trails.

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.
RAINBOW TROUT DERBY
The Bayfield Lions Club members would like to invite all fellow fishers to try their luck in this year’s annual Joe Brandon Memorial Rainbow Trout Derby.
It’s taking place this coming weekend in Rainbow Valley starting at 6 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 17 and it will run through until noon on Sunday, Oct. 19.
The first prize winner will take home $800, where the second place winner will receive $400, and the third place winner will earn $300. There is also an additional women’s prize for the lady’s largest trout for $100. A delicious back-bacon and cheese on a bun breakfast will be available, as well as coffee, pop and chilli.
Registration will close tomorrow, Thursday. Oct. 16, so it is suggested people sign up quickly! Tickets can be purchased online at www.brandontroutderby.ca for $30, which includes two nights free camping at Rainbow Valley Campground. They can also be purchased in-person at Bait Master in Bayfield or at Angling Sports in London, ON.
GARDEN CLUB
The Bayfield Garden Club has organized their last tour of the year. It will be a visit to Bad Apple Brewing Company just south of the village on Thursday, Oct. 23.
Bad Apple Brewing Company boasts a small orchard as well as a century barn. They use their fresh produce to craft beers, hard seltzer, cider and fruit wine. There will be an opportunity for purchasing. The tour shall commence at 4 p.m.
Bad Apple Brewing Company is located at 73463 Bluewater Highway.
GREENS WANTED

Cedar, Spruce, White Pine, Juniper, and Yew greens are needed for assembling the wreaths for an annual fundraiser for the Bayfield Agricultural Society. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society will be having a wreath sale fundraiser again this year on Nov. 14-15, coinciding with the Christmas in Bayfield weekend. Watch for advertising in the coming weeks about the wreath sale.
This week, an enthusiastic group of volunteers helped to pull grapevine and fashion it into the bases needed for making the wreaths. The wreath-making project is off to an excellent start!
The group is greatly in need of fresh greens that will be used to assemble the wreaths. Cedar, Spruce (blue or green), White Pine, Juniper, and Yew are preferred for the variety of greens that make the wreaths so attractive.
Anyone who might be planning to have their Cedar hedge or lower evergreen branches trimmed or an evergreen tree removed before the end of October is asked to contact info@bayfieldfair.ca The wreath-making committee will be in touch to arrange for pickup of the trimmings.
TAOIST TAI CHI
A Taoist Tai Chi® arts Open House will be held on Monday, Nov. 3rd followed by introductory sessions beginning Nov. 10. Both the Open House and introductory sessions will be held at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena.
The Open House will begin at 1:30 p.m. while the introductory sessions will be offered from 1:30-3 p.m.
In the Taoist tradition true health comes from cultivating body, mind and spirit to achieve harmony within the self and with the Universe. The movements contribute to better balance and posture, increased strength and flexibility and improved circulation.
The practice of Taoist Tai Chi® arts is meditation. Each step in the training returns the mind to stillness, clarity and wisdom, helping to let go of worries and bringing a sense of well-being and happiness.
For more information, visit: www.taoist.orgor contact the Stratford Branch via email: stratford@taoist.org or call 519 273-5614.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
GLEE SISTERS
The Glee Sisters will be presenting “Olaf’s Night Before Christmas” through song, story and puppets at the Bayfield Town Hall during the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.
There will be two performances on Saturday, Nov. 15, the first at 1:30 p.m. followed by a second at 3 p.m.
Young children will no doubt love to sing seasonal favorites and play interactive musical games with a gift of a rhythm instrument donated by Greg Stewart. The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society will provide hot chocolate and cookies following the shows.
Admission is free with donations to the Bayfield Area Food Bank gratefully received.
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.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
A peer-led Cancer Support Group will hold their next meeting at the Bayfield Branch Library on Oct. 18.
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.
Nov. 22 is the last scheduled date for meetings in 2025.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
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.
KNOX BAYFIELD
The congregation of Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield are currently gathering items for the 2025 Salvation Army “Coats for Kids” campaign.
To participate, please deliver new or gently used coats, hats, gloves, and boots to the church from 10 a.m, to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 12. The campaign helps ensure that children of all ages stay warm during the winter months, especially as families face rising living costs. The church is also collecting adult coats, hats, gloves and boots for the campaign.
People of all ages, stages, and faith experiences are welcome to join in weekly services at Knox, Bayfield on Sundays 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.
MAHJONG
Mahjong will be held on Wednesdays at the Bayfield Branch Library on a weekly basis.
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.
NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES ONE MONTH AT A TIME
Editor’s Note: October has arrived and along with it the first frost. Gardening may be winding down for the year but two local residents, Helen Varekamp and Renee Sandelowsky, who are both volunteers with the Canadian Coalition for Invasive Plant Regulation (CCIPR), are hoping to continue to inspire our readers in helping the planet through gardening with this monthly column.
For support in navigating some of the terminology used in this article please visit: Bayfield Breeze Vol. 16 Issue 809 Week 2 published Jan. 8, 2025.
BY HELEN VAREKAMP AND RENEE SANDELOWSKY
You may ask, why are garden centers still selling invasive plants since they are so harmful? Good question. That’s why the CCIPR wants the federal government to regulate the sale of invasive plants and/or provide labelling and education to inform the public of the danger. Some provinces do regulate some invasive species. But the rules vary from province to province. For example, yellow flag iris is regulated only in Alberta, British Columbia and Manitoba. The Multiflora Rose is an invasive ornamental plant that appears on lists of invasive plant councils across Canada, but is unregulated in all Canadian provinces.
Individuals can get involved by becoming a CCIPR supporter, free of charge and without obligations by visiting: Get Involved.
Businesses can show their support by becoming a partner and have their logo displayed on the website – again free of charge and without obligations by visiting: Partners.
SUCCESSES REFLECTED UPON AS ANNIVERSARY APPROACHES

President and CEO of Huron Health System Jimmy Trieu and Board Chair Brian Heagle proudly accepted the Business of the Year Award nomination on behalf of South Huron Hospital. (Submitted photo)
This December marks three years since Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) in Goderich and South Huron Hospital (SHH) in Exeter came together under the Huron Health System (HHS). Guided by a shared mission to deliver excellent, person-centred care, the partnership has strengthened local healthcare by combining resources, expertise, and innovation.
HHS notes their key successes over the past three years as:
- Uninterrupted Emergency Care: Both hospitals have maintained 24/7 emergency services with no closures.
- Expanded Local Services: SHH has increased access to mental health supports, surgical consults, and diagnostic imaging.
- Improved Mental Health Care: Faster psychiatric consults and stronger community partnerships have reduced wait times.
- Coordinated Diagnostics: While SHH prepares for the outcome of an application to the Ministry of Health for a new CT scanner, 60 per cent of patients requiring imaging were referred to AMGH, ensuring timely care.
- Exemplary Standing: Both hospitals achieved Accreditation Canada’s highest recognition for quality and safety.
“Ontario’s healthcare system is in crisis,” said Brian Heagle, Board chair of HHS. “HHS is confronting that harsh reality with a focus on lasting, positive changes. By uniting the strengths of both hospitals, HHS is elevating the quality of patient care at each hospital. By joining forces, HHS is amplifying both hospitals’ voices to advocate for greater impact with the Ministry of Health. As part of the HHS leadership team, the Common Board is passionate about governance and collaborating to find better ways forward for regional healthcare. HHS exists to achieve a healthier future for all.”
“This partnership isn’t just about sharing resources – it’s about ensuring both hospitals thrive. Together we’ve faced challenges, made real progress, and are preparing for an even stronger future,” said President & CEO of HHS, Jimmy Trieu.
Rural hospitals face unique pressure: limited resources, staffing shortages, and aging infrastructure. By coming together, AMGH and SHH have protected and strengthened local care, built resiliency, and created a system where patients remain the priority.
As Chiefs of Staff Dr. Sean Ryan (SHH) and Dr. Shannon Natuik (AMGH) affirmed in HHS’s Annual Report, “Hospitals are cornerstones of their communities. By working together, we will continue to strengthen rural healthcare and ensure the best possible patient-focused care.”
Both hospitals are grateful for the ongoing support they have received from their communities. It’s a clear reflection of how important local healthcare is to the people they serve. That strong connection was recently recognized through SHH’s nomination for a Business of the Year Award, an honor that highlights the trust and value communities place on accessible, high-quality rural care.
With a strong foundation and clear vision, HHS continues to evolve with the changing needs of the community – listening, learning, and building a healthier future for all.
PROFESSIONALS IN MEDICAL DEVICE REPROCESSING RECOGNIZED

Dawn Harman and Wanda Hodges are the dedicated professionals in Alexandra and Marine General Hospital’s Medical Device Reprocessing Department (MDRD), whose work is vital to patient care and infection prevention. (Submitted photo)
As hospitals and healthcare facilities across Canada observe Medical Device Reprocessing Week from now until Oct. 18, Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) is proud to recognize the dedicated professionals in its Medical Device Reprocessing Department (MDRD), whose work is vital to patient care and infection prevention.
This week celebrates the critical role they play in ensuring that medical instruments are thoroughly cleaned, sterilized, and ready for use in patient care. At AMGH, their expertise extends beyond the hospital’s walls through a valued partnership with South Huron Hospital (SHH) in Exeter, together forming Huron Health System. Through this collaboration, AMGH’s reprocessing team handles instruments for AMGH and SHH, with items couriered between locations. This shared service supports consistent, reliable care across a wide range of procedures.
“This partnership is a great example of how rural hospitals can work together to maximize resources, maintain high standards of care, and improve sustainability,” said President and CEO of Huron Health System, Jimmy Trieu. “Our MDRD team puts so much care and precision into what they do, knowing patients across both Goderich and South Huron are counting on them. Their impact is clear every time someone receives safe, high-quality care, from surgeries to everyday procedures. We’re truly thankful for everything they do.”
Every day, the MDRD team handles a variety of instruments, from delicate surgical tools to equipment used in everyday procedures. From the moment instruments arrive, the team carefully cleans, inspects, and sterilizes each item to the highest standards. Whether preparing surgical trays or readying scopes for minor procedures, they ensure everything is fully prepared to support excellent patient outcomes. This attention to detail allows clinical teams to focus on delivering the best possible care. Please join in recognizing the vital contributions of MDRD professionals.
CKNX RADIOTHON HITS AIRWAVES THIS SATURDAY
On Saturday, Oct. 18, the 24th Annual CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon will be broadcasting in support of nine midwestern Ontario hospital foundations, including Clinton Public Hospital (CPH) Foundation.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., CKNX will dedicate the AM920 airwaves to healthcare: sharing interviews with each of the Foundations about their fundraising goals, airing patient “Stories from the Heart”, and encouraging listeners to phone in a donation in support of their local hospital.
Since the first Radiothon in 2002, a total of $15,111,689 has been raised in support of participating hospitals, $757,053 of that in support of CPH, thanks to generous local donors.
This year, CPH Foundation has set a Radiothon fundraising target of $35,706 for two Centrella patient beds for their inpatient unit.
Radiothon will extend to Saturday, Oct. 25 for the CPH Foundation where they invite the community to join them at the Libro Hall in Clinton for the Annual Kinsmen Radiothon Breakfast from 7:30-11 a.m. Tickets are $15, or $10 for kids aged 12 and under.
CKNX Healthcare Heroes Radiothon will broadcast on AM920 and cknx.ca with updates on the hour on 101.7 The One and Cool 94.5. Callers can make their pledge during the broadcast on Oct. 18 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. by calling toll free 1-877-227-3486; volunteers will be on hand to answer the phone lines and accept donations. Text giving is also available throughout the entire month of October: simply text HERO CLINTON to 41010 to make a donation of $10. More information about the CKNX Healthcare Heroes Radiothon or Clinton Public Hospital Foundation can be found at cknx.ca or www.cphfoundation.ca.
LIVERY FILM FEST

The next film presented by the Livery Film Fest is the sharp-witted comedy, “Splitsville” (2025), possibly the “the funniest film of the year!”
The story unravels when Ashley announces she wants a divorce, sending shockwaves through her circle of friends. Her husband, the good-natured Carey, turns to their closest companions, Julie and Paul, for support – only to discover that the couple’s secret to happiness lies in their unconventional open marriage.
With its playful, risqué spin on the age-old theme of “love the one you’re with,” the film leans into chaos, awkwardness, and over-the-top antics. The result is a blend of big laughs, sharp satire, and just enough cringe to keep things interesting.
Save the date, Thursday, Oct. 16. Splitsville plays for one night only at the Park Theatre in Goderich. Showtime is 7 p.m. and the box office opens at 6:30 p.m.
Both outrageous and thought-provoking, Splitsville delivers an entertaining look at love, infidelity, and the messy realities of what makes relationships endure.
The Livery Film Fest is a proud partner of TIFF Film Circuit and the Goderich Little Theatre. Stay connected by signing up for the monthly newsletter. Contact the Livery Film Fest by email liveryfilmfest@thelivery.ca.
The Park Theatre is located at 30 Courthouse Square, Goderich.
BLUEWATER COUNCIL
The office of the Municipality of Bluewater Council has submitted the following to the Bayfield Breeze as highlights of their regular meeting of council held on Oct. 6.
- Approved that applications for new development in the Bayfield Settlement Area be accepted and processed as of Jan. 5, 2026.
- Authorized an Encroachment Agreement with Bayfield Brewing Company Inc.
- Authorized the Bayfield Agricultural Society to play music and set off fireworks on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025 (Thanksgiving weekend) at the agricultural park behind the Bayfield Arena with all activities ending at 11 p.m.
- Authorized an agreement with Simply Voting to provide an internet/telephone system for the 2026 municipal election.
- Entered into an agreement with May Reid for the operation of the concession booth located at the Hensall Arena.
HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
Climate and Energy Specialist Derry Wallis will be the guest speaker at the next meeting of the Clinton Horticultural Society on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
Environmental Stability will be the topic of the meeting that shall begin at 7:30 p.m. in the OMAFRA building. All are welcome.
Looking ahead, the topic of the Nov. 19 meeting will be Bluewater Recycling.
The OMAFRA building is located at 100 Don Street in Clinton.
BLUEWATER NEWS
The Municipality of Bluewater would like to remind taxpayers that they remain responsible for ensuring timely payment of their property tax and utility bills regardless of any postal service delays or disruptions.
The due date for property tax payments are Nov. 30th while Water and Sewer Utility Bills are due Oct. 31st.
Acceptable payment methods include: cash, cheque or debit at the municipal office in Zurich; local banks; telephone banking; internet banking; 24-hour drop-off slot at the municipal office; or preauthorized debit.
The Municipal Office is located at 14 Mill Avenue in Zurich.
MENDING CAFÉ
Does someone have a much-loved shirt missing a button? Pants or a skirt that need re-hemming? Anyone who doesn’t know how to repair them should not throw them away or leave them at the back of the closet because the mending team at Huron Hospice can help.
Individuals can bring their items to the Huron Hospice Drop-in Mending Café, located in the Community Room at Huron Hospice Bender House, near Clinton on Oct. 24-25.
Skilled sewing volunteers will repair clean clothing – or hem pants if they are too long. All the volunteers ask is that people make a donation to Huron Hospice in return. While the clothing is being repaired, people can take a guided tour of the residence or walk the beautiful grounds. Coffee and cookies also await!
The hours of the Drop-in Mending Café will be as follows: Friday, Oct. 24, 2-5 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to noon.
“We have been promoting green initiatives in several ways over the years,” stated Helen Varekamp, volunteer with Huron Hospice and organizer of the Mending Café. “We also seek to be fiscally responsible with donations and give back to the community. The Mending Café meets all of these goals.”
Huron Hospice receives only 50 per cent of its funding from the Provincial government. Generous donors contribute the other $600,000. All of Huron Hospice Services are available at no charge to the user. Huron Hospice is always looking for creative ways to raise these funds.
Huron Hospice is rightfully proud of taking positive steps toward making this a better world, one button at a time. For more information, call 519 525-8648 or visit www.huronhospice/events
Huron Hospice Bender House is located at 37857 Huron Road, Clinton.
CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP
Published playwright and Bayfield native Briana Brown will be sharing her talents for creative writing in a new offering by the Municipality of Bluewater’s Facilities, Parks and Recreation department.
Brown is “passionate about helping other writers cultivate their unique voice, and arrive at the stories they are most excited to tell.”
A One Day Creative Writing Workshop will be held on Saturday, Nov. 29 at the Bayfield Branch Library with lunch included for writers of all experience levels. The workshop will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
In this workshop, participants will explore how to create characters from the inside out, the outside in, and how to find their own unique voice. They will also find ways to engage them in conflict and push them to their limits.
This program is designed for writers of all levels from complete beginners to seasoned storytellers. There will be opportunities to share, but no pressure to do so.
To learn more, for fees, and to register for this workshop visit: A Matter of Character. The deadline to register is Monday, Nov. 24 at 4 p.m.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
YOUTH IN ACTION
The application period for United Way Perth-Huron’s (UWPH) Youth in Action Grants is now open for 14 to 24 year olds who want to address pressing issues among youth in Perth and/or Huron County.
“UWPH is excited to launch our Youth Grants,” said Kristin Crane, UWPH Director of Community Impact and Research. “Projects in previous years addressed everything from mental health awareness and social connection to mentoring and physical well-being. We look forward to seeing the many creative ways young people choose to address important local issues among their peers.”
To be eligible for a grant, the project must be planned and implemented by youth aged 14 to 24, clearly engage their peers in Perth and/or Huron Counties and have an adult trustee over the age of 25. Grants up to $1,200 are available and the application deadline is Oct. 20. Details regarding criteria and timelines are available at perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
TEXTILE SHOW AND SALE
The Huron Tract Spinners and Weavers, the Goderich Quilters’ Guild and the Y2K Rug Bugs of Huron County are combining their talents to present the annual Textile Show and Sale during the first weekend of November in Goderich.
The public will be able to view and purchase unique traditional and modern weaving, basketry, beading, spinning, knitting and felting. Also for sale will be quilts and quilted items from wall hangings through to bedding. In addition there will be traditional rug hooked items available as well as demonstrations.
There is no admission fee to this event that will feature three of Huron County’s most creative groups at the same time in one location. The show will run on Saturday, Nov. 1st from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 2nd from noon to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Huron County Museum, 110 North Street in Goderich.
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.
It was a great week for fans of the Toronto Blue Jays as they advanced to the American League Championship Series for the first time since 2016 after eliminating the New York Yankees. In recognition of this achievement, we highlight a baseball related artifact from the Museum’s collection…
TEAM PHOTOGRAPH
This is a black and white photograph of a group of men sitting on the front steps of a house wearing baseball uniforms circa 1921. There are four men wearing suits and a young boy wearing a jacket that says “Zurich”. The man standing on the right side in a suit has been identified as Charlie Fritz who had a shoe shop. The man wearing a suit sitting on the steps on the right side has been identified as Andrew F. Hess, who was born in 1880 and died in 1949.
Players noted to be in the photo are listed here in alphabetical order (a couple of them have been identified): William Braun, Frazer Brown, Lennis Callfas, Arthur Henning (catcher, middle front), Lee Hoffman, Clarence Hoffman and his twin Clayton Hoffman, Ray Ohlert, Babe Siebert (middle row, third player from the left), Ed Wesley, and Tally Wurm.
BAYFIELD’S FORGOTTEN FELINES
FOLKS PROVIDED WITH FINANCIAL INCENTIVE WHEN ADOPTING TWO KITTENS
PHOTOS SUBMITTED
Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) have always stated that, for a myriad of reasons, “two kittens are better than one”.
Two kittens help each other burn off energy and keep each other company when their humans are away. Two kittens are less likely to develop behavioural problems. And, of course, two kittens are twice the fun! BFF is now offering another great reason to expand the family with two of their amazing fur babies available for adoption…a discount!
For a short time, people can adopt two kittens for $400 instead of $500, a savings of $100. BFF’s kittens are spayed/neutered, fully vaccinated, dewormed and treated for fleas. Oh, and they are also seriously socialized.
“Our volunteers have made sure each kitten is a bundle of cuddles, purrs and play. We have a variety of siblings that would love to stay together in a forever home. Contact us today and arrange a visit. You may just fall in love…twice!” said Mary Pounder, representing BFF.
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting. 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.








SUBMISSIONS

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Melody Falconer-Pounder
My husband, John, and I started the Bayfield Lego Club in March of 2023 as a way not only for us to share our love of Lego but to provide a space for families and friends to connect while getting creative. From day one the kids have been in the lead, their grownups often kept busy searching the bins for the next great piece needed to bring their child’s idea into focus.
We meet on the second Saturday of the month at the TSJ Hall, 10 Keith Crescent, in Bayfield, even in July and August when summer tourists and resident grandparents with visiting grandkids often come out to play.
In the 32 months since we started the club, some meetings we have had but a diehard few while at other times, like this past Saturday, Oct. 11, we had 45 folks in attendance and the energy in the room was terrific. John and I were excited to see both new and returning friends who dove into the bricks and let their imaginations take flight.
The support of the community for this club has been tremendous. When we needed a sponsor the Bayfield Optimist Club stepped forward. When we put out the call for bricks people answered. When we requested Duplo, so younger siblings could join in the building fun, people obliged – and it was great to see these big blocks being used by several little hands on Saturday. And then without even asking, a local connection with Staples Canada reached out to us with a wonderful amount of Lego to further enhance the projects of our club members. And that is how the new Bayfield Lego Club Attendance Reward Program became a reality. That’s right, the more times kids come out and get creative at meetings the more opportunities they have to take some Lego home – whether they be a bag of assorted bricks or a fun little make and take. All of these wonderful growth experiences are due to the generosity of our community members that understand the power of imaginative play. Thank you!
The next Bayfield Lego Club will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 10-11:30 a.m. The meetings are open to youngsters aged two and up when accompanied by a grownup. Want to keep abreast of all things Bayfield Lego Club? Request to join our closed group on Facebook to follow all the happenings. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.




















