The Bayfield BreezeIssue 853 Week 46 Vol 17
November 12, 2025
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THE 34TH CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD WEEKEND HAS VERY NEARLY ARRIVED
Just two more sleeps until the 34th Christmas in Bayfield event begins! All elves will need to be bright eyed and ready to go as the parade will make its way along Main Street, to Clan Gregor Square and then to John Street starting at 11 a.m. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Bayfield is aglow with excitement as the 34th Annual Christmas in Bayfield weekend is happening on Nov. 14-16! From twinkling lights to horse-drawn carriage rides, this beloved tradition brings together locals and visitors for three days of festive fun, shopping, music, and heartwarming community spirit.
“Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate and eating hot dogs in the park, watching Santa arrive in the gazebo, seeing the village during a festive sleigh ride or dancing to live music in Library Square, there’s something for everyone,” said Bayfield & Area Chamber of Commerce Secretary-Treasurer, Terri Louch.
Here are the highlights of happenings for this magical weekend:
It all begins on Friday. The celebration commences with all-day shopping and dining, a greenery sale, and cozy treats with a free will offering in the park courtesy of South Huron District High School in Exeter. The evening features live entertainment by students from St Anne’s Catholic Secondary School in Clinton, the official lighting of the Winter Wonderland Festive Lights, and Santa’s grand arrival at the gazebo. Be sure to bring those lists for Santa who will visit with children after his arrival.
Saturday brings the heart of the festivities with the beloved parade, Santa visits in Library Square, complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides, live music, children’s face painting, woodcarving demonstrations, and new this year a “Deck the Hulls” event down at Fisherman’s Wharf. Fire pits, crafts, treats, inukshuk building and a nautical selfie station will create a warm and whimsical atmosphere for all ages. Gift and food donations are welcomed at the Sleigh found in the Library Square. This collection is sponsored by Tim Hortons Bayfield.
Sunday continues the celebration with nearly all the Saturday activities, minus the parade, and adds interactive outdoor games, free skating at the community centre, and more chances to enjoy the lights, music, and community spirit. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a weekend of holiday joy.
For the full schedule of events, visit villageofbayfield.com.
“Bundle up, bring your holiday cheer, and join us for a weekend that celebrates the heart of Bayfield: community, creativity, and Christmas magic. This is it…and it’s going to be unforgettable,” concluded Louch.
VISITOR’S INFORMATION TO JOIN ARCHIVES AND HERITAGE CENTRE
Members of the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) and Bayfield & Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) met recently to announce their new partnership. From l-r: Deborah Curran, treasurer with BHS; Julia Armstrong, archivist with BHS; Mike DeCorte, president of the BACC; and Barb Durand, president of BHS are shown standing in front of an historic Gemeinhardt work bench that has been transformed into the Welcome Centre area in the existing Archives and Heritage Centre. (Submitted photo)
Bayfield’s commitment to preserving its rich heritage while welcoming growth takes a significant step forward with a new initiative – the Archives, Heritage & Visitor Centre – marking a strategic collaboration between the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) and the Bayfield & Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC), two organizations united by a shared vision for the village’s prosperity.
Located in the heart of the village, the BHS’s heritage building will now also house a tourist information centre alongside curated exhibits and archival resources maintained by the BHS. This integrated approach, blending historical insight with visitor engagement, will allow guests and locals to continue to explore Bayfield’s past while learning about local attractions and businesses, encouraging longer stays and deeper connections to the community.
Preserving the historical integrity and unique charm of Bayfield is essential to its continued success. The BACC actively promotes the community’s hallmark character as a key attraction for visitors and investors, while the BHS plays an indispensable role in curating and safeguarding archival records and artifacts while promoting the stories and architecture that define Bayfield’s identity.
The newly designed visitors space integrated into a thriving Heritage Centre was made possible through generous support from Huron County’s SLED grant program, a contribution from the Bayfield Lions Club, and countless volunteer hours. Their combined efforts are testimony to the spirit and pride they share as a community.
This collaboration of two independent organizations also strengthens Bayfield’s marketing reach, amplifying its visibility as a destination and contributing to a thriving tourism economy. Through shared resources and unified messaging, the Centre reflects a forward-thinking model for community development rooted in respect for the village’s history and heritage.
Residents and visitors alike are invited to stop by and explore the Centre this weekend when the new visitors area will be unveiled. Whether seeking information about a local business, things to do in the area, or, as many people have over the years, hoping to delve into Bayfield’s rich history, the Centre will offer a welcoming space. The BACC and BHS also invite people to follow them on social media to discover opportunities to get involved as this collaboration continues to evolve.
Whether a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a proud local, the Archives, Heritage & Visitor Centre offers meaningful ways to engage with Bayfield’s stories – past, present, and future.
HURON COUNTY AUTHORS HOSTING TWO BOOK LAUNCHES
Huron County Authors are hosting two upcoming book launches for local talents at the Bayfield and Goderich branches of the Huron County Library system.
On Nov. 22, Jen Courtney will be launching her new book, “Had I Only Known!”
Courtney offers “a beautifully thoughtful journey through parenthood told from the perspective of hindsight, ‘Had I Only Known’ is the perfect read for both future and current parents alike.”
At this special event, Courtney will share insights from her book and her experiences as a writer and parent.
The Bayfield Library will be the site of Courtney’s book launch starting at 11 a.m. for one hour. She will also attend the Goderich Library for the same length of time starting at 1:30 p.m.
Then on Saturday, Dec. 6, Huron County Authors will help Mike Shiell launch his latest book, “Bayfield Benny” also at the Bayfield and Goderich libraries.
People are invited to join in an inspiring and laughter-filled event with author-illustrator Shiell as he celebrates the launch of his brand-new picture book, Bayfield Benny – a delightful story that’s sure to become a local favorite! Shiell will also be sharing insights into his hit book, “Linty: A Pocketful of Adventure”, and offering a peek behind the curtain at his incredible 25-year career in animation and illustration, including work on beloved children’s shows like “The Backyardigans” and “Mike the Knight”.
The Bayfield Library will be the location for Shiell’s book launch. It will be held for one hour starting at 11 a.m. He will also attend the Goderich Library for the same length of time starting at 2 p.m.
As space is limited at both of these free events, registration is required. People can RSVP at huroncountyauthors.com/events
END OF MONTH DEADLINE FOR RECIPE SUBMISSIONS
The Bayfield Agricultural Society is planning a commemorative recipe book with stories to celebrate the Society’s 170th anniversary. Community members are invited to be part of the celebration by contributing family-favorite recipes and stories or anecdotes about the Society and the Bayfield Community Fair. (Submitted photo)
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.
MITTENS THE KITTEN RESCUED FROM OUT IN THE COLD
Mittens (Submitted photo)
As the first snow arrives and the temperatures drop, volunteers with Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) are reminded that there are plenty of cats and kittens roaming outside that will need some help surviving in the harsh conditions.
One such little fellow, known as Mittens, who no longer has to worry about the cold and where his next meal is coming from, is the Adopt a BFF kitten of the week.
“Mittens is a huggable little fur ball that melts hearts with his wide eyes and curious expression. He is an orphan and came in alone and quite scared but he didn’t take long to warm up and steal hearts,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.
Volunteers estimate that Mittens is about 3.5 months old. He was originally spotted with another young kitten and people put some food out hoping that a Mama might be close by and come for food and her babies. That was not the case.
“The kittens were very skittish and they decided to try and trap them when four days went by with no sign of their mother. Only one was caught and brought in,” said Penhale. “We hope that either someone took the baby in or Mama came back and they are together. Everyone in the neighborhood is keeping an eye out for them and both shelter and food have been set out in the hope that they return.”
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting Mittens and 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.
PUBLIC SCULPTURE SURVEY
The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) is excited to announce plans of a Public Art Sculpture to be installed in Clan Gregor Square to celebrate Bayfield’s founding in 2026!
This piece will not be a monument or statue, but rather an artist’s interpretation of what makes Bayfield truly special – its character, history, and surroundings.
“To ensure the sculpture reflects the heart and diversity of Bayfield, we invite you to take a very short, seven question survey and share your thoughts and ideas,” said Leslee Squirrell, president of the BCA.
Input from the community will help shape a work of art that represents everyone! To take the survey visit: Public Art Sculpture.
SANTA VISITS
Every holiday season for many years the volunteers with the Bayfield Lions Club have organized visits from Santa Claus for village residents over the age of 80 as well as to people who may be shut-in due to health reasons. For 2025, the Lions are preparing for their visits to happen on Saturday, Nov. 29. They need help from the community to ensure that these visits are a success.
According to President of the Bayfield Lions Club, Karen Scott, these visits are something that the seniors and shut-ins look forward to every year and the club members don’t want to disappoint anyone.
“It would be very helpful if people contacted us even if Santa has delivered Lions’ gifts in the past as we are hoping to update our records with current information,” Scott said.
“The qualifications are simple – that the person lives in Bayfield, is over 80 or health requires that they are a shut-in,” Scott said. “And if they have a spouse who also qualifies, we ask that people share that information as well. If it is for a single delivery, we would appreciate it if people would indicate their preference between a box of chocolates or a Poinsettia. If it is a couple, they will receive one of each.”
Santa’s visit also extends to former residents of Bayfield who are now living in assisted living facilities in the Municipality of Bluewater.
“Because of confidentiality, the care homes are not allowed to release any information to Santa so we are hoping that family and friends will let us know if someone would like a visit,” concluded Scott.
Current information can be emailed to Karen Scott at karendscott@eastlink.ca.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
There will be lots of activity at Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield this weekend and music will fill the air!
On Saturday, Nov. 15, members of the Bayfield Ukulele Society (BUS) will be performing a “Christmas in Bayfield Concert” starting at 2 p.m. There will be a free will offering that will be shared between the Huron County Christmas Bureau and Artemis Huron (previously known as the Huron’s Women’s Shelter). This concert has been generously sponsored by Goderich Toyota.
Then, on Sunday, Nov. 16, at Knox, Bayfield’s 11 a.m. service special music will be featured by harpists Sharon Johnston and Joan Hutton. Sunday services are open to everyone.
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.
UNITED CHURCH
The congregation of St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield are looking forward to hosting their “Holly Berry Christmas Bazaar” on Nov. 14-15 in conjunction with the Christmas in Bayfield weekend.
The Bazaar will be open on Friday, 4-7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be vendors and a Bake Sale table as well as an opportunity to sit and partake in a luncheon of pulled pork on a bun served with dessert.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in the village.
WREATH SALE
Each wreath is truly one of a kind and generously finished with fresh greenery. Pictured is a medium-sized $30 wreath. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
It’s only two more sleeps until the start of the Bayfield Agricultural Society’s annual fundraiser Wreath Sale!
The Wreath Sale will be held in the parking lot in front of St. Andrew’s United Church, which is directly across from Clan Gregor Square.
Sale times are Friday, Nov. 14 from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., while quantities last. In 2024, the wreaths sold out early, so anyone interested in buying a wreath is encouraged to come in good time.
Prices are $30 for a medium-sized wreath and $40 for a large-sized wreath. Payment is by cash or debit/credit. All proceeds are used to support the Bayfield Community Fair.
These beautiful wreaths are made from a variety of seasonal greens thanks to the generosity of those in the Bayfield community who donated large quantities of quality evergreen boughs. Each wreath is truly one of a kind and will add a special warmth to any holiday décor.
A limited number of greenery bundles, bows, and tails will also be available at the Wreath Sale.
All of the wreaths have been handcrafted by local volunteers using locally-sourced greens as a fundraiser for the Ag Society – 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.
GLEE SISTERS
The Glee Sisters will bring “Olaf’s Night Before Christmas” to life through song, story and puppets on the afternoon of Nov. 15 at the Bayfield Town Hall. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
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.
ANGLICAN CHAPEL
Volunteers will soon be decorating Trinity St. James Chapel for the Christmas season enhancing the charm of the historic building and readying it for “Traditions and Carols” on Dec. 7. All denominations welcome. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Trinity St. James Chapel will host their last service for 2025 on Sunday, Dec. 7 and it is shaping up to be a very special one as those who gather will be treated to stories about the origins of beloved holiday traditions mixed with the singing of carols.
“Traditions and Carols” with Eucharist will be held starting at 2 p.m. led by Rev’d Justin Comber and is open to all in the community, including families. The origins of many Advent and Christmas symbols, such as, the colored candles and Poinsettia, will be explored in story and song. Following the service there will be a time of fellowship and refreshment in the TSJ Hall. Rumour has it there may be gingerbread cookies!
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.
HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS
“Homemade Holidays” is a program being offered at the Bayfield Branch Library in the days leading up to Dec. 25th, all sponsored by the Friends of Bayfield Library.
Those who take part in this series of holiday crafting will create beautiful, high-quality decorations and gifts. All one-hour sessions begin at 5:45 p.m. and are for ages 12 and up.
On Tuesday, Nov. 25 participants will make a “Simmer Pot Potpourri” by mixing and matching seasonal spices, fruits, and herbs. This fragrant simmer pot potpourri is sure to fill a home with the cozy scents of winter.
Then on Tuesday, Dec. 9, the theme of the evening will be “Cooke Sheet Countdown” as participants will create their own festive Christmas countdown using cookie sheets and Cricut-cut vinyl to mark the days leading up to Santa’s arrival!
Please note that registration is required for both of these sessions. People may register by contacting the library at 519 565-2886 or via email at bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
“I AM HURON”
CELEBRATING NEWCOMERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
The County of Huron’s Immigration Partnership celebrated seven immigrants and newcomers to Canada who are making a difference in their communities at the inaugural “I Am Huron” awards held recently.
The awards program invited nominations of immigrants who have made a meaningful impact through their work, leadership, or community involvement. A volunteer selection committee reviewed all nominations and selected seven outstanding individuals from across the county to be recognized.
Recipients were chosen based on their nomination submissions, with a focus on contributions to the community and society, entrepreneurial and economic Impact and cultural and artistic contributions.
“These awards honor the incredible people who have chosen to make Huron County their home,” said Pam Somers, chair of the Huron County Immigrant Advisory Council, who spearheaded the program. “Through their hard work, entrepreneurship, and volunteerism, they enrich our communities and inspire us all.”
“Know someone who should be nominated for their contributions in a future I Am Huron campaign? Watch for the nomination opportunity in March 2026,” added Mark Nonkes, Immigration Partnership manager.
This project is funded in part by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Editor’s Note: Bayfield Breeze is pleased to showcase each of the seven award recipients over the next few weeks. Now in week three, we highlight Tanya from Exeter, ON. These stories are courtesy the Local Immigration Partnership for the County of Huron.
GODERICH WELCOMES TWO FAMILY PHYSICIANS
Maitland Valley Medical Centre (MVMC) and Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) are pleased to welcome Dr. Matthew Gray and Dr. Grant Dawson to their teams of dedicated healthcare providers. Both will join MVMC as family physicians and will also provide inpatient care at AMGH.
Dr. Grant Dawson (Submitted photo)
Dr. Dawson is a family physician born and raised in Goderich. He attended medical school in Dublin at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. He then spent nine years working as a physician assistant in Goderich alongside Dr. Michael Dawson before completing his family medicine residency at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine at the rural Bracebridge site, with a focus on rural primary care, emergency, and hospitalist medicine. He has been working at AMGH since completing his residency.
Dr. Gray is a family physician originally from Burlington, ON. He received his undergraduate degree from Queen’s University and attended medical school at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He completed his family medicine residency training through Western University at the Mount Brydges site with a focus on rural primary care and hospitalist medicine. He has worked as a locum physician, primarily in Huron County, since finishing residency.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Dawson and Dr. Gray to the Maitland Valley Medical Centre,” said Matt Hoy, Executive director of MVMC. “With two new additions to our team, families in Goderich will have even greater access to high-quality, personalized care. As our community grows, skilled family physicians like Dr. Gray and Dr. Dawson help ensure patients can receive the care they need right here at home.”
Dr. Matthew Gray (Submitted photo)
In addition to their family medicine practices, both physicians will provide inpatient care at AMGH.
“We are so pleased to welcome Dr. Gray to Goderich and to see Dr. Dawson start his medical practice here in his hometown,” said President and CEO of Huron Health System, Jimmy Trieu. “We see firsthand how continuity between family medicine and hospital care makes a real difference in people’s lives, it’s a unique benefit to the community. Their work across both MVMC and the hospital will help ensure that patients receive seamless care.”
NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF INVASIVE PLANT SPECIES ONE MONTH AT A TIME
Editor’s Note: November has arrived and along with it snow! Gardeners may have laid down their trowels 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
Ontario has 441 known invasive plant species – the highest of all the provinces.
Invasive plants can reduce crop yield and increase the use of herbicides for farmers, increasing costs and reducing crop values. Invasive plants can reduce forest regeneration by competing with tree seedlings. In natural areas, invasive plants affect species diversity and health by reducing available resources. Human health can be affected by invasive plant species such as toxic Giant Hogweed and Wild Parsnip. Recreation areas overrun by invasive plants can be less enjoyable due to increased number of ticks, difficulty walking through a trail filled with dense growth, fewer birds and burs on clothing and pets.
WE LEND A HAND
“We Lend a Hand: The Forgotten Story of Ontario Farmerettes” has been shown locally in Brucefield, Goderich Bayfield and soon to be in Clinton!
This 50 minute documentary film tells the extraordinary story of the 40,000 young women who volunteered on Canadian farms during WWII doing their part for the war effort.
Tickets for the documentary are available now for $20 each including service fees and HST. Visit We Lend a Hand for tickets. The film will be showcased on Sunday, Nov. 16 at the accessible Clinton Town Hall starting at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
Two years in the making the film is selling out in theatres across the province and has won awards for Best Documentary, Best Canadian Documentary, and Best Film About Women.
The Clinton Town Hall is located at 23 Albert Street.
MAITLAND MILLS ASSOCIATION
Maitland Mills Association (MMA) has overcome the final barrier preventing restoration of the Logan Mill on the Maitland River in Brussels, ON. (Submitted photo)
After numerous starts and stops since 2019, Maitland Mills Association (MMA) has overcome the final barrier preventing restoration of the Logan Mill on the Maitland River in Brussels, ON.
Previous ownership by the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA) effectively precluded outside groups from creating a self-guided mill
museum in the 1915 structure, one of the last of its kind left, out of over 50 that once existed, on the Maitland River watershed. This change of ownership is a significant step forward for revitalization and new use of the mill.
The work of millers across Huron County has historically been an economic boost to residents and support businesses yet overlooked as a focal point of tribute and enlightenment to the profession. This museum will serve to illuminate skills, techniques, machinery, and types of mills across the entire Maitland River watershed. It’s anticipated the repurposed mill will draw tourists young and old to witness history brought to life.
An active fundraising schedule is set to begin early 2026 and those involved are optimistic for opening in late 2027. Invitations will soon be sent to grain-handlers to contribute their stories for displays. Preparations to create grant applications are underway now. Donations are being facilitated with assistance and support from the Huron County Historical Society.
Curating of artifacts from Logan and Maguire (Gorrie) mills is now underway with a local curator.
“Maitland Mills Association is elated at this acquisition, and grateful to Maitland Valley Conservation Authority and the Brussels Community Development Trust for allowing us to own Logan Mill, streamlining the way forward for the building to be enjoyed as a ‘museum of mills’ by many generations to come”, says MMA Board Chair Ralph Laviolette.
MMA acknowledges with gratitude the help of Community Futures Huron, General Manager Paul Nichol; Local Curator Evelyn Riddell, artifact preparation/documentation; Research Historian Rhea Hamilton Seeger, mapping and history of all known grist/flour mills and grain handlers on the watershed.
The MMA group is composed of business operators Doug Sholdice, Jim Lee, Peter Jaycock and Kevin Riddell of Brussels and Ralph Laviolette of the Huron County Historical Society and the Huron East Chamber of Commerce.
LIVING WAGE WEEK
As part of Living Wage Week, running now until Nov. 14, United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) and the Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN) are announcing the region’s new living wage of $24.60 an hour, up from $23.05 last year.
“Making our communities more livable is an ongoing effort,” said UWPH Executive Director, Ryan Erb. “Unfortunately, shelter costs continue to be a major driver of the increase to the living wage rate locally, as are the higher costs of transportation in rural communities like ours.”
A living wage shows how much a worker must earn to make ends meet and enjoy modest participation in the community. The calculations gather expenses for three types of households: two adults supporting two small children, a single parent with one child, and a single adult. Results are aggregated and include any applicable government taxes, transfers and benefits.
“We must remain committed to ensuring workers can afford to live in our communities,” added Erb. “That’s why it’s critical for our collective well-being to continue having conversations with employers about paying a living wage instead of looking to the minimum wage as a guide.
“To illustrate the difference, if a person has a full-time job paying minimum wage, even with October’s increase workers would be left $245 short every week. That’s an impossible situation. If nobody can afford to live here, how will our communities sustain themselves? We owe it to ourselves to ensure the places we live can thrive, not just survive. A living wage is part of that.”
For more information about the living wage, including how businesses can certify, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
BLUEWATER NEWS
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 Nov. 3.
- Entered into an agreement with the Municipality of South Huron for Fire Prevention Officer services.
- Appointed Michael Herbert as Fire Prevention Officer for the Corporation of the Municipality of Bluewater.
- Appointed members to the Committee of Adjustment for the 2026 term.
NEW DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
The Bayfield Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) has been operating at capacity and therefore planning proposals for new and/or infill development have not been feasible within the settlement area.
The Municipality of Bluewater is currently undertaking an expansion to the WWTP; the project is projected to meet completion in Summer 2026, subject to weather and project milestones. The Municipality is also working towards the development of a Servicing Allocation Policy which will help manage and distribute available allocation. The expanded capacity, and allocation policy, will allow for new development.
In anticipation of this additional reserve capacity, the Council of the Municipality of Bluewater has authorized planning staff to begin accepting planning applications for new development.
Applications will be accepted as of Jan. 5, 2026 with the understanding that the expanded plant will not be fully operational until June, 2026 (estimated). By accepting applications in January, this will allow time for applicants to prepare necessary studies, submit applications, and to allow for required review and processing time under the Planning Act.
Questions or requests for further information can be directed by mail to: Bluewater Municipal Office, 14 Mill Ave., Zurich ON, Attention: Lindsay Whalen, Planning coordinator or by emailing planninginfo@municipalityofbluewater.ca or by calling 519 236-4351 Ext. 235. Individuals may also call Sarah Smith, planner at 519 524-8394 Ext. 3.
CLINTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
Jill Simmons from the Bluewater Recycling Association (BRA) will be the special guest at the next Clinton Horticultural Society to be held on Wednesday, Nov. 19.
Starting at 7:30 p.m., she will share insights into new recycling options being offered by the BRA starting in January of 2026.
The meeting will be held at the OMFRA building on 100 Don Street in Clinton. All are welcome.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER
Good Neighbours of Bluewater (GNOB) is bustling most days of the week with various activities like coffee and muffin times, cards, knitting, crocheting and exercise. Throughout November there are lots of new activities planned and all events are open to the public.
The Book Club will begin Nov. 10. Participants will be reading “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo”. There are currently three spots still available. The book will be discussed on Dec. 2nd.
“Santa Day” is back again this year. It will be held on Nov. 22. People are invited to bring their little ones to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus! This is a free event with treats provided and attendees are welcome to take their own photos.
On Nov. 27, GNOB will host a “Winter Whimsy Workshop” where participants can make a snowman or a gnome for a $10 fee. There are currently 10 spots remaining for this workshop. People are encouraged to bring their mending to the “Pop-Up Mending Cafe” on Nov. 29 where experienced sewers will help them out. No zippers please!
GONB invites everyone to drop by and check out their space at 28 Goshen Street North in Zurich. To view posters with further details on events visit: www.gnob.org or email gnob@hay.net to request a calendar.
GIVING TUESDAY
“Giving Tuesday” in Canada is set for Dec. 2. Organizers call it “the world’s largest generosity movement”. Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) is one of the local charities asking for donations this coming Giving Tuesday.
This year, the ABCF encourages donors to donate towards sponsorships for summer nature day camps so more deserving young people, who might not be able to take part otherwise, can attend.
Charles Miner is ABCF Chair. “By donating on Giving Tuesday, you can provide a child the opportunity, at the nature camps provided by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, to have a fun, positive outdoor learning experience that they otherwise would not be able to have,” he said. “We appreciate all donations. Local conservation programs need support all year long but by donating during Giving Tuesday you can be part of this global movement and make a real difference in the lives of young people.”
Nature day camps provide youth the opportunity to learn about our natural environment while engaging in fun, physical activities, he said. Children attending day camps also make new friendships while learning about the importance of protecting our water, soil and natural habitats.
Amy Wilhelm is Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron (BBBSSH). She said the organization is pleased to partner with ABCF and Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) so more local young people can enjoy the nature day camp experience.
“Children and youth involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron have greatly enjoyed the summer nature day camps they have participated in over past years through the ABCA,” she said. “We extend our sincere thanks to the Conservation Foundation and its generous donors for choosing to support BBBSSH and helping to make it possible for even more local children and youth to experience this opportunity in the coming year.”
To donate to ABCF for Giving Tuesday, visit the ABCF Giving Tuesday web page Canada Helps. There is a private message box where donors can type, into the text field box, to let the Conservation Foundation know which program they want to support.
To learn more about the Conservation Foundation, or how to support their work with a donation, visit: ABCF. People may also contact the Conservation Foundation by email at info@abca.ca or by phone at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610.
Giving Tuesday is a global movement, for giving and volunteering, that takes place after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Those are popular days to buy things. As those retail mega-days wind down, the Conservation Foundation asks people to consider a different kind of day – Giving Tuesday. It’s not a day to buy things but a day to give a gift to the community. To learn more visit: Giving Tuesday Canada.
HURON HOSPICE
The Goderich Firefighters will face off against a full line-up of former NHL hockey heroes on Sunday, March 8.
This fantastic community event promises lots of skill and lots of laughs, and is guaranteed to be a fun and memorable event for all ages! The puck will drop at Maitland Recreation Centre in Goderich starting at 2 p.m. The doors will open at 1 p.m.
This game is in support of Huron Hospice. For 31 years, families have turned to Huron Hospice for support at the end-of-life. Huron Hospice provides care at Bender House and in the community for people with life-limiting illnesses. Huron Hospice also provides loss and grief support for children, youth and adults.
Since opening the residence in 2018, Huron Hospice has made moments matter for more than 300 individuals and their families at Bender House, and for 700 individuals and their families in the community. There are no costs for any services. Huron Hospice is a place where families make moments matter.
If available tickets will be $34 each at the door but tickets purchased in advance are discounted. To learn more call the ticket and information line at 1-888-777-97923 or visit www.ProHockeyHeroes.com.
A portion of the promotion for this event will consist of a telemarketing campaign in Goderich and the surrounding area.
The Maitland Recreation Centre is located at 190 Suncoast Drive East 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.
In honor of Remembrance Day we take a closer look at an artifact in the Museum’s collection from the World War II era…
FLIGHT JACKET
This is a leather flight jacket from the Royal Canadian Air Force. It is a dark leather jacket with sheepskin/wool collar. It has a strap belt to tighten the collar, along with a zipper track.
The tag inside reads: “Year of Manufacture 1941/ IRIVSUIT / Made by Irving Air Chute of Great Britain, Letchworth, Harts / Patent no. 407445/32 / Size: 6 / Height: 5′ 11″ ; Breast: 40″ to 42″ ; Waist 36″ to 38”.
This jacket belonged to Flight Sergeant Charles Dauphin, who was a wireless operator for a Vickers Wellington Bomber in the RCAF, with the No. 40 RAF Squadron during WW2. His plane was shot down over Africa on Aug. 8, 1942 and he was taken prisoner. He spent time in seven different Italian prisoner of war camps, before being moved to Germany. He was released in 1945. After the war he moved to the Wingham, ON area.
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Flight Jacket
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Flight Jacket Side View
LEST WE FORGET
SNOW SHOWERS FELL ON THOSE GATHERED TO REMEMBER
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
The first snow showers of the season fell on those that gathered around the cenotaph in Clan Gregor Square on the morning of Nov. 9 as the village’s Remembrance Day Services were conducted. But the weather mattered not as all gathered were there to remember those who endured far more adverse conditions in times of war.
Members of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 140 formed a Color Party as did members of Bayfield Guiding. Members of the Bayfield and Area Fire Department, a division of Bluewater Fire Services, were also present at the ceremony wearing their dress uniform.
This year the Bayfield Poppy coordinators were Tom and Marilyn McMahon. Don Knox acted as Master of Ceremony at the service. He was joined by Judy Sparks who led the singing of “O’Canada” and “God Save the King”. Paul Dearlove, performed The Last Post and Rouse on the bugle.
Peter Jeffers read the poem, “In Flanders Fields”. Ian Matthew read “We will Remember Them”. Branch Chaplain Rev. Nick Vandermey, offered prayers. Knox announced the names on the Rolls of Honor for both World Wars. Bayfield’s soldiers lost in the 1914-1918 conflict were: Edward Adley, Arthur Clarke, Harvey Currie, Kenneth Currie, Russel Erwin, Victor Evens, Allen McDonald, Robert McLeod and Wilfred Toms. Those men lost in the battles of 1939-1945 were: Charles Stewart Cann, Robert David James Hopson and Richard V. Weston.
The McMahons were in charge of distributing the wreaths. Gary Brandon laid a number of these wreaths. He laid those wreaths representing: World War I & II, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Afghanistan & Iraq Wars, and HMCS Provost. RCMP Constable Anthony Bauer laid wreaths for UN Peacekeepers and Gulf Wars I and II. The remaining wreaths were laid by: MP Ben Lobb, Government of Canada; Mary Hughes, Province of Ontario; Rick Shropshall, Royal Canadian Legion, Br.140; Bill Whetstone, Municipality of Bluewater; Tony Hutchings, Korean War veterans; Mario Lusse, Rhodesian Conflict veterans; Jim Koene, Bayfield Firefighters Association; Doug Wallis, St. Andrew’s United Church; Jim Knox, Knox Presbyterian Church; Bayfield Guiding Representative Kate Padfield-Jackson, TSJ Hall Association; President Mike DeCorte, Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce; President Karen Scott, Bayfield Lions Club; Keith Tarnawski, Bayfield Optimist Club; President Barbara Durand, Bayfield Historical Society; 1st Bayfield Sparks, Felicity and 1st Bayfield Embers, Eloise, and Guider Melanie Giesbrecht on behalf of Bayfield Guiding; and Ian Matthew, in memory of John L Matthew, RAF 1923-2023.
Bayfield’s services are held on the Sunday prior to Nov. 11, when musicians, clergy and legion members can avail themselves to the smaller centres.
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
I had a proud Brown Owl moment on Sunday morning at the village’s Remembrance Service. Thirty per cent of our Bayfield Guiding youth members voluntarily came out on a snowy, cold day to recognize and remember those who served, those who are currently serving and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It was the largest turn out for our group in recent memory and I was so impressed with how these girls, some just freshly five years of age, deported themselves. And I was touched to learn that others took notice as well.
Later on Sunday afternoon I got an email from a Bayfield resident that truly brought joy to my soul and a tear to my eye. I’ll share a little bit of it with you here…
“Just a quick note to let you know that it did my heart good to see you and your troop marching along behind the veterans on your way to the Bayfield Cenotaph today.”
They then shared that their father had served for four long years in World War II in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Battle of the Atlantic.
“So, ‘Thank You’ to you and your wonderful young Girl Guides for honoring and remembering our veterans on this first Sunday before Remembrance Day. My Dad would have been proud.”
It means a great deal to me that someone in the community reached out to offer such positive and thoughtful feedback about our Bayfield Guiding youth. A special thank you to our Bayfield Guiding families, and my fellow Owls, that brought their girls to the park to allow us to be a part of this special and solemn occasion. “We will remember them.” – Brown Owl Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.