The Bayfield BreezeIssue 850 Week 43 Vol 17
October 22, 2025
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TWENTY-FOUR DAYS AND COUNTING TO CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD
Whether a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Christmas in Bayfield is an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and experience the wonder of the season – Bayfield style. A highlight of the weekend is the Santa Claus Parade scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 15 at 11 a.m. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The heart of Bayfield is about to twinkle a little brighter as the beloved Christmas in Bayfield celebration returns this November, promising festive cheer, cherished traditions, and a few delightful surprises.
People are encouraged to mark their calendars for Friday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. when the lighting of Clan Gregor Square begins this three day event. Come early and help raise money for school technical education programs by purchasing a hot dog to enjoy. This will be a free will offering so change will not be available.
Saturday, Nov. 15 at 11 a.m., the village will come alive with the sights and sounds of the annual Holiday Parade – a cornerstone of the weekend’s festivities. This year’s parade will be led by none other than Melody Falconer-Pounder, a cherished community member and this year’s Parade Marshall. Her long standing contributions to Bayfield make her a fitting choice to guide this joyful procession.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. From twinkling lights and horse-drawn carriage rides to local shopping and seasonal treats, Christmas in Bayfield offers something for everyone. Visitors can expect:
- Charming storefronts decked out in holiday finery;
- Live music spreading cheer throughout the village;
- Unique local vendors perfect for holiday gift shopping;
- Free horse-drawn carriage rides offered both Saturday and Sunday – perfect for soaking in the festive atmosphere;
- Warm drinks and sweet treats;
- Delicious dining options – stay for lunch or dinner at one of Bayfield’s amazing eateries and make a day of it!
“This event is all about community,” said Terri Louch, chairperson of the Christmas in Bayfield Committee. “It’s a time to celebrate the people, businesses, and spirit that make Bayfield so special. We’re thrilled to welcome everyone back.”
Looking ahead, 2026 will mark the 35th Anniversary of Christmas in Bayfield, and plans are already underway to make it the most memorable celebration yet.
“We’re dreaming big,” said Louch. “And we love to see familiar faces return year after year.”
Whether a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, Christmas in Bayfield is an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and experience the wonder of the season – Bayfield style.
BAFB TO CUT THE RIBBON ONE WEEK FROM TODAY
The Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) volunteers are thrilled to invite their donors, volunteers, members and friends to their upcoming Open House on Wednesday, Oct. 29.
“It is with tremendous gratitude that we welcome you to join us in the official opening of our new home,” said Claire Trepanier, president of the BAFB on behalf of the Board. “Without you, we would not be here, and it is with you that we wish to celebrate this wonderful achievement. The efforts of so many have been essential. This has been a labor of community and commitment.
“Beginning with our determination to find a secure new home, to the response from the municipality to assist us in securing the location, to the outpouring of generosity of friends, helping neighbors and neighbors helping friends, our new home is once again supporting food security.”
All are welcome to visit the new facility from 4-7 p.m. so that they can see first hand what everyone worked so hard to accomplish. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at 4:30 p.m. and light refreshments to follow.
BAFB is located at 2 Jane Street in the village.
BAYFIELD’S CAIRN FOCUS OF TALK BY LOCAL HISTORIAN
Author David Yates has written several historical books about the region, including “Never Shall Their Glory Fade: The Cenotaphs of Huron County.” He will share his knowledge of the Bayfield cenotaph (pictured here) and others at a Bayfield Historical Society meeting on Nov. 10. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
In honor of Remembrance Day, the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) is pleased to present local historian and author David Yates, who will speak about Bayfield’s cairn in Clan Gregor Square and other cenotaphs in the area.
The talk is set for Monday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. in the TSJ Hall at the rear of the Trinity St. James Chapel of Ease.
The event is free for BHS members and $5 for non-members. Please sign up on Eventbrite by visiting: Cenotaphs of Bayfield and area.
In July 1933, the Bayfield cenotaph was dedicated to those from Bayfield who gave their lives in the First World War. In 1947, the names of those killed in the Second World War were added to the other side and a re-dedication ceremony took place in August that year.
Yates has written several historical books about the region, including “Never Shall Their Glory Fade: The Cenotaphs of Huron County.” BHS members and friends look forward to learning more local history from him on the eve of Remembrance Day.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
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.
MARVIN THE CURIOUS IS READY FOR HIS PERFECT MATCH
Marvin (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Sometimes for a myriad of reasons a potential adoption doesn’t work out, such is the case for the wide-eyed and very expressive Marvin, who is the Adopt a BFF cat of the week.
“Marvin was going to be adopted but there was a change of plans and this has left this lovely boy a bit sad and confused,” said Deb Penhale representing BFF.
Marvin didn’t have the easiest start in life. He was caught and left in a trap overnight in the middle of a storm.
“The poor boy was skin and bones and terribly frightened when he came to us. But he’s blossomed into a handsome, self-assured, young cat with a huge capacity for playfulness alongside a touch of delightful mischievousness.
“He just loves to play and he is very curious but most of all Marvin loves nothing more than to have ear scratches, cuddles and lap time. He is more than ready for his forever home and people to claim as his very own. We can’t wait to see his surprised expression evolve into a Cheshire Cat grin when he meets his perfect match,” concluded Penhale.
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!
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting Marvin and/or others. 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.
WILD WEST FUNDS
“Wild West Fest” organized by the generous folks at Michael’s Pharmasave in Bayfield on Aug. 27-28 was a bang up success! The team at the pharmacy recently presented a representative from the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) with a cheque for $2,155 which was raised during the event which included a Silent Auction and loot bags purchased by donation. Taking part in the presentation were Michael Ibrahim (right), owner of Michael’s Pharmasave, and Kelsey Johnston (left), General manager of Front Store Operations. Accepting the cheque on behalf of the BAFB was Jayne Dietrich. (Submitted photo)
OWL PROWL BAYFIELD
The final guided hike of the year hosted by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) will be an Owl Prowl on Monday, Nov. 3rd.
Starting at 7 p.m., participants will have the opportunity to be active in nature, to listen for owls and to learn about local animals that are active at night.
Participants will be joined by Cassie Greidanus of the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority.
The event will take place at the Sawmill Trail. To access the trail from Hwy 21, north of the Bayfield Bridge, turn right onto Old River Road. Proceed about ½ km and turn right at Sawmill Road. The trail entrance is at the end of this short road. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear and some listening ears. Please do not bring lights as red lights will be provided.
The hikes are free and open to the public. For more information contact Ralph Blasting at 519-525-3205 or rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
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.
WREATH SALE
Pictured is a wreath from last year’s wreath sale. Bows are sold separately. There will be a good variety of bows to choose from. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
It’s that time of year again! The annual Wreath Sale, a major fundraiser for the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS), will be held on Nov. 14-15.
The sale will be held on Friday, Nov. 14 from 4-8 p.m. and on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., while quantities last.
The wreath sale will take place in the parking lot at the front of St. Andrew’s United Church, which is directly across from Clan Gregor Square.
Medium wreaths are selling for $30 and the large wreaths are $40. Payment is by cash or debit/credit.
These beautiful wreaths are made from a variety of seasonal greens thanks to the generosity of those in the Bayfield community who donated large quantities of quality evergreen boughs. Each wreath is one of a kind and will add a special warmth to any holiday décor.
A limited number of greenery bundles, bows and tails will also be available.
All of the wreaths have been handcrafted by local volunteers using locally-sourced greens as a fundraiser for the BAS – a local organization with a 169-year history in the Bayfield community. Proudly keeping it “local”!
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in Bayfield.
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
For more than a decade, the Glee Sisters’ women’s choir has presented a Christmas Musical to benefit the Bayfield and Area Food Bank (BAFB).
The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society donates their beautiful venue plus the hot chocolate and cookies following each of the two Saturday afternoon shows at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m.
On Nov. 15, children ages three to six years old will enjoy the singing, dancing, gifts, games and puppet interactions that accompany, “Olaf’s Night Before Christmas” story book.
Admission is free with donations to the BAFB 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.
PILATES
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena warmly offers Pilates for all levels, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts, on Monday and Thursday evenings starting in November.
Monday evening’s class is a great way to discover the transformative power of “Classical Pilates with Props”, a dynamic workout designed to enhance physical and mental well-being. This unique routine incorporates hand-held weights and a small Pilates ball, allowing participants to deepen their practice and challenge their body in new ways. Whether a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this class can be customized to fit individual needs and abilities.
Join on Mondays for seven weeks starting on Nov. 3 at 6:30 p.m. to enhance overall fitness, boost energy levels, and cultivate a sense of calm and well-being.
Thursday evening’s “Foam Roller Pilates” class offers a dynamic and invigorating workout for anyone looking to enhance their fitness routine. This class combines key elements of Pilates with a foam roller, a small Pilates ball, and resistance bands. Participants will work to elongate their muscles, tone their bodies, and enjoy a rejuvenating massage experience.
Jump into the fun on Thursday evenings for seven weeks starting on Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m.
To learn more, for fees, and to register online participants are asked to visit: www.thewellnesspotion.com
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
A peer-led Cancer Support Group will hold their next meeting at the Bayfield Branch Library on Nov. 22.
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.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
YOGA
The Municipality of Bluewater is offering “Yoga with MJ” at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena for six weeks. This program commenced yesterday, Oct. 21 and will run until Nov. 25.
To learn more, for fees, and to register online participants are asked to visit: Yoga with MJ.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
UNITED CHURCH
St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield will host two upcoming events that may be of interest to people in the community.
On Sunday, Nov. 2nd, Rev. Sheila Macgregor will be sharing in worship with Bill and Karen Butt, who will be reflecting on a recent visit to Gaza in light of the scriptures.
And then on Remembrance Sunday, Nov. 9, people are invited to join the congregation in a short worship service at 10 a.m. so that all may attend the village Remembrance Day Service at the cenotaph in Clan Gregor Square starting at 10:45 a.m.
After the village service those who wish to are invited to direct their attention to the northeast corner of the park as St. Andrew’s members will hold a Tree Dedication there in celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the United Church of Canada.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in the village.
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.
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.
EARLY ON BAYFIELD
With the arrival of Autumn the Bayfield Playgroup, hosted by EarlyON, has returned to the TSJ Hall for their weekly time together.
The sessions are free to all families/caregivers with infants to children aged six years and run from 10-11:30 a.m. on Thursdays. 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.
The TSJ Hall is 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.
NINE HOSPITAL FOUNDATIONS BENEFIT FROM RADIOTHON
The Lucknow Kinsmen made a gift in support of Wingham & District Hospital Foundation’s Radiothon campaign, to raise $83,000 towards the Bone Density Unit. (Submitted photo)
On Saturday, Oct. 18, the 24th Annual CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon broadcast on AM920 to continue its mission of support for local hospitals in mid-western Ontario.
At the close of the broadcast, the Radiothon generated $378,300 in support for this year’s nine participating hospital foundations, including: Clinton Public Hospital Foundation, Durham Hospital Foundation, Hanover & District Hospital Foundation, Listowel Memorial Hospital Foundation, Mount Forest Louise Marshall Hospital Foundation, Palmerston and District Hospital Foundation, Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation, Walkerton & District Hospital Foundation, and Wingham & District Hospital Foundation.
For the past 24 years, the CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon has dedicated the third Saturday in October to helping local hospitals share their message on-air, and to inspire giving in their communities. The broadcast runs on AM920 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with heartwarming patient stories, interviews with healthcare professionals about the projects and equipment for which each hospital Foundation is raising funds, and motivation for listeners to become a “Health Care Hero”.
Prior to going on air, each Foundation selected an important fundraising goal. In 2025, these goals included raising funds for essential hospital equipment and upgrades such as a nurse call system in Mount Forest, Centrella Patient Beds in Seaforth and Clinton, the Bone Density Unit in Wingham, and a Fluoroscopy Machine in Hanover. As government funding does not cover the cost of capital equipment in hospitals, these projects truly depend on gifts made from within the community.
In addition to the on-air broadcast, many of the participating hospital foundations also held in-person events in support of their fundraising campaigns, including community breakfasts, BBQs and bake sales.
To date, the CKNX Health Care Heroes Radiothon has raised a remarkable $15,489,989, and for many of the participating hospitals, it is a major fundraising campaign for the year.
The hospital foundations of Clinton, Durham, Hanover, Listowel, Mount Forest, Palmerston, Seaforth, Walkerton and Wingham would like to express their gratitude to the team at CKNX for their outstanding commitment to supporting local healthcare, as well as to the many businesses and individuals who have supported this year’s Radiothon.
For anyone who would like to make a contribution to one or more of the participating hospital foundations, text giving remains open until the end of October, and they can make a $10 donation by texting the word HERO followed by the name of the town they are supporting to 41010. They can also visit cknx.ca/health-care-heroes-radiothon, or contact their local hospital Foundation directly.
OWL PROWL AT MORRISON DAM INCLUDES GUESTS FROM WILD ONTARIO
The return of the Owl Prowl should prove to be a hoot for participants!
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) is bringing back the Owl Prowl on Friday, Nov. 7 at Morrison Dam Conservation Area, two kilometres east of Exeter.
There will be two sessions, one at 5:30 p.m. and one at 7:30 p.m. There is a maximum of 75 guests for each session. Each session is about one and a half hours in length. Pre-registration is required.
Wild Ontario, which brings native species of owls for an indoor part of the event, is a special guest for this year’s Owl Prowl.
To register for a session of the Owl Prowl, click on the Zeffy link Morrison Dam Owl Prowl 2025. More information can be found at Owl Prowl at abca.ca.
“The Owl Prowl is a chance to learn about our amazing owls and other native species,” said Conservation Education Supervisor with ABCA, Cassie Greidanus.
The Owl Prowl, which includes a ‘listening’ night hike, is a big success each year. There is no fee to take part but ABCA appreciates all donations towards conservation education programs. Donations of $20 or more receive a charitable gift receipt for income tax purposes.
Each session will begin at the ABCA Administration Centre main office at 71108 Morrison Line. Organizers ask those taking part to dress for the weather as most of the event is outdoors. Registrants may bring a flashlight but they are to be used only in emergencies. ABCA provides the loan of a limited number of red-filtered flashlights for use during the event. The Owl Prowl is family-friendly but it is a pet-free event.
Some people, who took part in previous Owl Prowls, provided their feedback through a survey. Some of their positive comments included, “We absolutely loved it!” and “I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to do this and I will recommend to others to take part in this activity in the future.” Some young people who took part replied, that “This is awesome!”
ABCA thanks all the partners in the Owl Prowl including the conservation authority; Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF); and Wild Ontario.
DEMENTIA NIGHT
Dr. Sharon Cohen (Submitted photo)
Alzheimer Society Huron Perth will host their annual virtual Fall Dementia Education Night on ZOOM on Wednesday, Nov. 12.
Starting at 7 p.m. their guest speaker, Dr. Sharon Cohen, director of the Toronto Memory Program, will present “What’s New in Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and Treatment – a timely and informative update on recent research developments in the dementia field.
This is a free event and all are welcome to attend. To register visit: Dementia Night 2025.
Dr. Cohen is a behavioural neurologist renowned for her excellence in patient care, teaching, and clinical research. She serves as the Medical Director and Principal Investigator at the Toronto Memory Program. Alzheimer Society Huron Perth are delighted to host Dr. Cohen as she shares the latest advances in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Those who attend are encouraged to bring their questions! The audience Q&A session following the Dementia Night presentations is always a highlight, and organizers look forward to the participation of those who take part. Anyone who may have questions for Dr. Cohen that they’d like to submit in advance, is asked to please email them to jeanettes@alzhp.ca. Organizers will do their best to ensure they are addressed.
To find out more about Dementia Night 2025, or other Alzheimer Society Huron Perth education events, click on the Education Hour banner on their website at www.alzheimer.ca/huronperth or contact their office at 1-800-561-5012 or email info@alzhp.ca.
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
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. (Submitted photo)
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.
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.
Well okay, Blue Jays! After an amazing comeback performance on Monday night, Oct. 20, the Toronto Blue Jays are advancing to the World Series against the LA Dodgers. In recognition of this milestone we highlight another baseball related artifact from the Museum’s collection…
CATCHER’S MITT
This is a rounded leather catcher’s mitt. It is grey-brown in color and padded with wool inside.
This catcher’s mitt was used by John Lockridge, of Wingham, ON, who was employed by Western Foundry also of Wingham. He was a member of the Wingham Baseball Club for over 30 years. He had the glove made by a local harness maker in 1888. It was used until 1918 when he ceased active participation in baseball. The glove had been worn down and repaired several times.
Screenshot
Catcher's Mitt
BAYFIELD LIONS CLUB
REFLECTIONS ON THE 47TH RAINBOW TROUT DERBY
PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
Over 200 tickets were sold for the 47th Annual Joe Brandon Memorial Bayfield Lions Club Rainbow Trout Derby. The weekend offered a mixed bag of weather conditions for participants as the tournament began in the early hours of Friday, Oct. 17, concluding at noon on Sunday, Oct. 19. The weather was unseasonably warm and sunny on Friday and most of Saturday until rain and cooler temperatures were ushered in on Sunday morning.
Only eight Rainbow trout were caught over the entire weekend with the event headquarters being Rainbow Valley Campground in Bayfield. Weighmaster for the event was Dave Heatherington.
“The largest salmon caught weighed over 17 lbs and it was brought in on Friday. The prize for the largest salmon is given by Gary Brandon and because there is only one salmon prize we encouraged the adult participants to release anything under the winning weight back into the river,” explained Lion Tom Grasby. “Youth were given a prize for any weight or fish caught – five salmon, all caught by youth, were recorded.”
Darryl Sweeney took first place for the heaviest trout with a Rainbow weighing 6.60 lbs.; second place went to Rob MacGillvery with a trout weighing 6.42 lbs; and third place was awarded to Jake Willis with a trout that weighed 6.16 lbs. The Eric Earle Trophy, awarded to participants aged 15 and under, went to Carter Koene with a 1.28 lb trout. The William Thorpe Trophy, given to participants aged 16-18, was awarded to Brayden Vorsteveld for a 5.72 lb trout. No women were successful in catching trout this year. The prize for the largest Salmon was won by Dexter Gidge who took the prize with a fish weighing 17.26.
The winner of the draw for a Nautibouy Sportfishing Charter was Tammy Everett.
“Steve Morris owns and operates Nautibouy fishing charters. He has been a huge benefactor to the Lions for the past five years donating a day on the water for two people,” explained Grasby. “All tickets sold are put in a drum and the winner is pulled on Sunday.”
In addition to Nautibouy Sportfishing Charter, Grasby would also like to thank Bait Master, Bayfield Convenience and Gifts, and Angling Sports in London for selling tickets as well as two anonymous donors, one who helped tremendously with adult prizes and the other who made the youth table a success. All youth got a prize valued at over $35.
“Few fish were caught but everyone seemed to enjoy the derby and the weekend,” Grasby concluded.
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Melody Falconer-Pounder
When local environmental activist Ray Letheren formed “Friends of the Bayfield River” back in 1996 he probably never imagined being interviewed by a journalist who lives in Korea for a website based in Dubai but in 2025 that is precisely what has occurred.
Ray sent a link to the article, written by Jo Park, into my inbox yesterday as it had just been published on “The Climate Tribe” website and I knew I had to share it with our readers. Congratulations to Ray for his efforts in continuing to be a champion for the Great Lakes through education and perseverance one (global) household at a time. – Melody
P.S. To read the article please visit: The Climate Tribe – Ray Letheren Interview.
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.