The Bayfield BreezeIssue 863 Week 04 Vol 17
January 21, 2026
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ANNIVERSARY YEAR FOR AG SOCIETY KICKED OFF AT ANNUAL MEETING
An Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies Accomplishment Award was presented to IODE Maple Leaf Chapter. IODE Past Regents Penny Murray and Melitta Wasylciw were on hand to accept the award on behalf of IODE. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
Bayfield Agricultural Society Treasurer Jentje Steenbeek presented Marlene Beyerlein with a thank-you gift for her guest presentation, “Orchards in the 2020s”, at the Annual Meeting. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) kicked off its 170th anniversary year with the organization’s 2025 Annual Meeting, which was held at St. Andrew’s United Church on Monday, Jan. 12.
Following a pizza party and delicious homemade desserts, the group gathered to listen to the guest speaker, Marlene Beyerlein, owner of Bayfield Berry Farm. Beyerlein’s topic – “Orchards in the 2020s” – touched on all aspects of running a modern, diversified fruit farm, from planting techniques, field labor, and pest management, to the newer value-added offerings in her shop, and markets where Bayfield Berry Farm products can be found. This was followed by a question-and-answer session.
Following the guest speaker, the business of the Annual Meeting proceeded. Annual Meetings are held so that members can learn about what the organization has accomplished, approve the financial statement and proposed budget, and appoint people to committees and positions of leadership.
Greetings were received on behalf of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) from OAAS Provincial Director Jentje Steenbeek, including an introduction of District Representative and incoming OAAS Provincial Director Spencer Dunsmore, who attended representing OAAS District 8.
The BAS also used the event to acknowledge and present awards to organizations that have provided years of support.
This year, an OAAS Accomplishment Award was presented to IODE Maple Leaf Chapter for its longstanding commitment to providing financial support for Youth Class exhibit prizes at the fair. IODE Past Regents Penny Murray and Melitta Wasylciw, accepted the award from BAS President Doug Yeo. BAS members had the opportunity to learn more about the IODE’s fundraising efforts and the community work that the organization is involved in.
A second OAAS Accomplishment Award will be presented to Rosie’s Ice Cream at a later date as the owners were unable to attend. Rosie’s Ice Cream has provided financial support for the Bayfield Community Parade for the past number of years.
The 2026 BAS Executive was elected at the Annual Meeting. Doug Yeo was re-elected as President; Samantha Van Aaken as 1st Vice-President; Cate Thompson as 2nd Vice-President; and Pam Stanley as Homecraft President. Treasurer Jentje Steenbeek and Secretary Sue Warren were re-appointed to their positions. Also welcomed were six new Directors, who will bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to their roles on the Board of Directors.
Yeo’s comments as incoming President stated that he “was pleased to be part of our expanded and refreshed team.” This team will be guiding the activities that will take place in the 170th anniversary year. The organization looks forward to hosting another fair that will leave lots of happy memories for the young and young at heart. A true sense of enthusiasm was evident in the room following the meeting.
DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR COMMUNITY GRANTS
Bayfield Lions Club President Karen Scott would like to announce that the deadline for the club’s community grants to be used in conjunction with the village’s 150th anniversary has been extended to midnight, Saturday, Jan. 31st.
To celebrate Bayfield’s 150th anniversary since incorporation, happening this calendar year, the Lions have dedicated $10,000 for community grants of up to $1,000 per project.
They are inviting community groups to bring forward ideas that celebrate Bayfield’s history, arts, culture, heritage, and community vitality that could benefit from a grant. Lions involvement is not required beyond funding support.
The Project Proposal Form must be sent in prior to the deadline to qualify. No exceptions will be made. Approval notices will be emailed to successful applicants between Feb. 11–13. Funds will be distributed on or before Feb. 28.
In addition to filling out the form, applicants can also forward supporting documents such as promotional scripts or digital posters, press releases or partner confirmations that indicate the scope, support and excitement for the project. These can be sent to bayfieldlions@gmail.com under the subject “150 Celebration Proposal”.
The Lions members encourage everyone to work together to celebrate 150 years of Bayfield pride and thank people in advance for helping make this milestone year unforgettable.
VILLAGE PHOTOGRAPHS SOUGHT FOR COMMEMORATIVE PROJECT
To help celebrate Bayfield’s 150th anniversary, the Photography Club of Bayfield (PCoB), the Bayfield Lions Club, and the Bayfield Historical Society are producing a high-quality coffee table book featuring photos of Bayfield. The call is now going out for people to submit images for possible inclusion. The images above are examples of what organizers are looking for. (Submitted photos)
In 1876, with a population of 800 people, Bayfield was incorporated as a village.
To help celebrate Bayfield’s 150th anniversary, the Photography Club of Bayfield (PCoB), the Bayfield Lions Club (Lions) and the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) are producing a high-quality coffee table book featuring photos of Bayfield.
This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who have created great Bayfield images over the years to have their photos take a place of honor in what will be a legacy book that will be valued for decades.
The book will be a high-quality, hard-covered book with stunning photographs and short historical vignettes celebrating 150 years of Bayfield. The book will be developed and produced wholly in Canada with photos contributed from PCoB members, the BHS and other area photographers. The book will be sold through multiple channels in and around Bayfield, making this a great opportunity to showcase a photographer’s work.
To participate:
- Please submit high resolution (>7.5 MPixels) stunning photos of Bayfield to pcob.book150@gmail.com.
- Photos can be emailed directly (no more than two per gmail) or via DropBox, Google Drive or any other transfer app.
- Photos can be any size/aspect ratio, and portrait, landscape, square or panorama.
- Individuals may submit as many as they like and are encouraged to invite their friends to submit as well.
Organizers are seeking photos of all aspects of Bayfield: Main Street, historic buildings, beaches, Bayfield Harbour, sailing, bridges, fishing, industry, retail, hospitality, parks, Two-Cow Barns, war memorial, churches, trails, sunsets, seasons, golf course, croquet court etc.
Participants are asked to please submit as soon as possible, the deadline for submissions is Friday, Jan. 30th. The sooner organizers can collect the photos; the sooner they can get the book into print.
Please note that submission will constitute permission to use these images in both the book and marketing materials.
Those who wish to take part should feel free to reply with any questions or suggestions to the email listed above. Organizers are very excited about this project and feel it will be a great legacy gift for Bayfield that all can be an integral part of it!
WANTED: VOLUNTEERS, VOTES AND A HOME FOR NORMAN
Norman (Submitted photo)
Four weeks into 2026 and Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines’ (BFF) volunteers find themselves in desperate need of two things: more volunteers and votes!
Volunteering with BFF might not be glamorous but it is definitely rewarding. People are now being sought to scoop out litter boxes and to feed the cats at the shelter. Folks who can commit to a shift or two a week will be rewarded with plenty of purrs and quite a bit of cuddling thanks to the shelter’s furry residents. Please reach out via the email address listed below if interested.
Something anyone with a Facebook account can help with is voting for a BFF kitten named Osprey who has been nominated to be “America’s Favorite Pet”. The exciting news is Osprey made it pass the first round and is one step closer to winning $10,000 USD for the shelter and to also be on the cover of “Modern Cat Magazine”, but she’s got to make it through the second round of voting and into the Top 15. This second round of voting ends at 7 p.m. PST tomorrow (Jan. 22). Voters are allowed one free vote per day. Please visit Osprey – America’s Favorite Pet to learn more and to cast a vote for BFF!
And now let’s learn about the Adopt a BFF cat of the week – Norman.
Volunteers at the shelter describe Norman as a gentle giant searching for his forever home.
“He’s a bit beat up from his time on the streets, he’s not a small cuddly kitten, but he will love you to death,” said Mary Pounder, representing BFF. “This big orange marshmallow just wants to be pet, and fussed over, He’ll respond with head butts, purrs and cuddles.
“When a kind soul brought him in from a storm, Norman was in heaven. A warm soft place to sleep, fresh water and yummy food – life couldn’t be better. He asks for so little and will give back so much to his forever family.”
Readers can help Osprey win the title of “America’s Favorite Pet” by casting a free vote via Facebook. (Submitted photo)
Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about adopting Norman and 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.
FRIENDS OF BAYFIELD LIBRARY
Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) is seeking volunteers to serve on their Board. This may be the perfect position for someone who not only loves the library but enjoys volunteering and working with an enthusiastic team to support their community library!
FOBL supports the Bayfield library by fundraising for library events, activities and priorities.
FOBL Board members are asked to attend monthly meetings at the library; create, organize and help with fundraising events like paint nights as well as the annual book sales and the “Red Cart”. Board Members also act as ambassadors for the library in the community and serve on the FOBL Executive.
Skills or experience in fundraising, event planning, finance/treasury or communications/social media are welcomed but not necessary.
Individuals who are interested or would like more information are asked to please send their name and phone number to contact@fobl.ca and they will be contacted by a Board member.
BAYFIELD TRAILS
Volunteers with the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) advise folks not to let the weather get them down. They believe that Winter can be the most enjoyable season. One way to embrace the season is to get outside for a hike or snowshoe. A few of the benefits of winter hiking are the beautiful scenery, the ability to spot animal tracks and there are no bugs!
There will be guided hikes every Saturday in January at Mavis’ Trail starting at 11a.m. Anyone interested is asked to meet at the Stanley Community Centre parking lot at 38595 Mill Road in Varna. If conditions allow, people are invited to bring snowshoes. These hikes are open to all and free of charge. Canine companions are always welcome but it is asked that they please be kept on a leash.
Upcoming guided hikes are published in the “Bayfield Breeze”, on the Municipality of Bluewater calendar, through monthly electronic newsletters and on the BRVTA website: www.bayfieldtrails.com.
For more information, contact Ralph Blasting at 519 525-3205 or rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
BRICK FUNDRAISER
People often ask if they can add an engraved brick to the path around the Splash Pad in Clan Gregor Square and members of the Optimist Club of Bayfield are pleased to announce that there is further opportunity to have a name added to the circle in 2026.
The engraved pavers in Clan Gregor Square are a reminder of how great area residents and visitors are when it comes to supporting such projects as the Playground and the Splash Pad.
“In Memoriam” stones for loved ones as well as “just because” stones can be ordered with the work being done on site later in 2026 using the same two brick sizes that are already installed around the Splash Pad. The cost of these engraved bricks will be medium, $100; and large, $130. The plan is to have the bricks engraved in late May just prior to opening the Splash Pad.
Anyone with an interest in adding a brick can contact Jeff Kish via email at jeff.kish.home@gmail.com or by calling 416 435-8700 for further information.
BAYFIELD COMMUNITY BOOK CLUB
The Bayfield Branch Library staff are pleased to share that they are welcoming people to join their new community-led Book Club.
The members will meet on the first Friday of each month for a relaxed and welcoming discussion where readers can share their thoughts and connect with fellow book lovers. Conversations will be guided by group members with the help of provided prompts.
The next meeting of the Bayfield Community Book Club will be on Friday, Feb. 6, at 10:30 a.m. at the Bayfield Library. Registration is requested by emailing bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
EUCHRE NIGHT
Both seasoned Euchre players or people just learning the ropes are invited to come out for an evening of laughs, friendly competition and great company starting on Tuesday, Jan. 27 and subsequent Tuesdays until Apr. 21.
All skill levels are welcome to attend “Euchre Night” as players will rotate throughout the evening, plus there will be prizes awarded for first and second places as well as most lone hands, all for an entry fee of $1 per person.
People are invited to just drop in, no need to RSVP, for these fun-filled evenings of cards and community to be held at the Bayfield Landing for two-hours starting at 6:30 p.m.
Anyone who would like to join in but doesn’t know how to play will be provided instruction. Organizers encourage folks to come out, bring their friends, and spread the word!
For more information please contact Nancy Lowrey at 416 576-6272 or Pat Lewington at 519 525-8568.
The Bayfield Landing is located at 21 Bayfield Main Street North.
BAYFIELD LIBRARY
The Bayfield Branch of the Huron County Library has some entertaining activities planned throughout February which should appeal to a variety of ages and interests.
Individuals aged 13 and up, can become certified Huron County Library Cricut users! Starting on Feb. 3rd, and then throughout February on Tuesdays and Thursdays for one hour starting at 1 p.m., the Cricut will be available at the Bayfield Branch. Those who are interested in trying out the machine are asked to contact the branch to book their certification session, and once completed, they’ll be able to drop in during library hours all month long to create and explore the technology.
Adults can celebrate Valentine’s Day with a hands-on Cricut crafting session on Thursday, Feb. 5. During this session which will be held from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., participants will use pre-cut decorative Cricut pieces to assemble a charming Valentine’s-themed wreath to take home. This Adult Craft Night has been generously sponsored by Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL). Participants must register for this activity.
The Bayfield Branch will host a cozy afternoon of family fun on Saturday, Feb. 14. From noon to 2 p.m., people are invited to watch a family-friendly, PG rated movie, ”A Sloth Story” on the big screen while enjoying popcorn, candy, and hot chocolate. This should be a perfect way to relax and spend time together! This program is generously sponsored by FOBL. Those who wish to attend are asked to register.
To register for these events please email bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca or phone 519 565-2886.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
PA DAY LEGO PLAY
The whole family is encouraged to drop by the Bayfield Branch Library on the next PA Day, Friday, Jan. 30, for some LEGO® fun!
The library staff will provide the bricks, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., library visitors just need to bring their creativity.
Whether building towering castles, speedy cars, or anything that can be dreamed up, there’s something for everyone. This unstructured, hands-on program is perfect for kids and parents to build and play together at their own pace.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
UNITED CHURCH
Anyone who may have ever wondered what Jesus’ Parables really mean is invited to join in a four week series to be led by Rev. Dr. Sheila Macgreor starting in mid-February.
The sessions will be held on Friday mornings starting at 10 a.m. from Feb. 13 to March 6 downstairs in the hall at St. Andrew’s United Church.
No previous knowledge of the Bible is necessary to enjoy this video-based study: “Short Stories by Jesus” by A. J. Levine. People are invited to come and learn how these ancient stories can speak to us in the 21st century! All are welcome.
Anyone who is interested in attending or would like more information is invited to contact Sheila by calling 519 235-0613 or emailing sheilagmacgregor@gmail.com.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in Bayfield.
STORIES OF THE HOUSING CRISIS LAYS OUT MAJOR TRENDS
Will Wellington, manager, Social Research & Planning for United Way Perth-Huron, poses with the “Our Stories of the Housing Crisis” Report. (Submitted photo)
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) continues to draw attention to local realities of the housing crisis. In a new report, UWPH’s Social Research and Planning Council (SRPC) shares the voices of Perth-Huron residents affected by rising housing costs, with dozens of quotes drawn from a survey conducted in 2024.
“This report is an attempt to document the impact of the housing crisis on Perth-Huron residents,” said Kristin Crane, UWPH director of Community Impact and Research. “While we hear about housing all the time, we don’t hear how it’s affecting our neighbors, our friends, our coworkers. Our goal was to tell those local stories.”
The report is called “Our Stories of the Housing Crisis”. It analyzes over 700 survey responses from Perth-Huron residents and lays out the major trends. Among other things, rising housing costs have left residents stuck in inappropriate housing, forced them to cut back on essentials like groceries, and degraded their financial and psychological well-being.
Just as importantly, the report demonstrates that, “it is real people behind all the cries for help,” in the words of a West Perth resident. Almost half of the report is direct quotes from Perth-Huron residents. That’s because the survey featured open-ended questions to which respondents wrote their own answers.
“Our open-ended survey questions let people share what they felt was most relevant,” said Crane. “It also let us capture their unique voices, their heartbreak, their wisdom, and even their humor in the face of adversity.”
Those open-ended responses also allowed researchers to get a better sense of how Perth-Huron residents think and feel about the housing crisis.
“These stories have so much pain in them and such a deep sense of unfairness,” said Crane. “This has been a harrowing experience for many Perth-Huron residents, and they want change.”
A common thread in the responses inspired the report’s recommendation: that governments and community organizations should set ambitious regional targets for new community housing and make serious investments to achieve them.
“Respondents want housing to be affordable. They support new housing, particularly new affordable housing,” said Crane. “That’s a great project for governments, non-profits, and all of us to take on in 2026.”
Anyone interested can find more information at perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
NEED FOR TREE PLANTING TRACED BACK OVER DECADES
It’s time to think about Spring tree planting! Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority has opened their Spring tree orders and there is an online ordering option. These orders can be made until Feb. 28. (Submitted photo)
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) invites watershed landowners to purchase trees through the Spring tree order program.
To make it easier to purchase trees this year, there is a new online tree order option. (Or, for those who prefer, there is a hard-copy printed tree order form or a PDF file download). The Spring tree order form can be found by visiting Tree Orders. The new online purchasing portal link can be found at: ABCA Shop. Trees are available on a first-come basis and stock availability is limited. Spring tree orders accompanied by payment, and online orders, can be made until Feb. 28.
Ian Jean is ABCA Forestry Specialist. He said there is a long legacy of tree planting in local watersheds. One might assume tree planting hasn’t changed much over the years but, he said, a deeper look reveals shifting trends and approaches as knowledge, priorities and the landscape have evolved over time.
Large-scale tree planting began locally during the 1950s and 1960s. Tree cover was lower than today and there was great public concern for topsoil erosion by wind and water. The provincial government at that time operated tree nurseries and related infrastructure, in addition to providing funds to purchase land for reforestation.
“Tree seedlings grown at the government nurseries were provided at very low cost, a few cents per tree, to landowners willing to reforest large blocks of land,” Jean said.
During that period, properties in areas like Hay Swamp were purchased by ABCA. They were planted with trees by the provincial Department of Lands and Forests.
“Primarily these were conifers, mainly White Pine, planted at six feet apart or about 1,200 trees per acre,” he said.
During the 1970s and 1980s, changes to farming saw the proportion of land in pasture decrease, row cropping increase and crop fields grow larger. A shift to windbreak planting occurred to protect the larger fields from wind erosion.
“The ABCA tree program started around that time to fill the need for windbreak planting,” said Jean. This complemented the provincial program, targeted to larger reforestation projects.
The provincial tree nurseries and related government tree planting ended during the 1990s. Conservation authority tree planting programs continued by wholesale purchasing seedlings from private nursery growers to offer to watershed residents.
“Despite the increase in tree costs, people continued to plant trees,” said Jean. One advantage private growers offer is a greater range of species and types of planting stock. “The importance of biodiversity is widely recognized, and people today are more likely to plant a variety of trees than just one type.”
Today, ABCA offers a wide range of trees through its Spring tree planting program. The Forestry Specialist encourages interested landowners to visit abca.ca for the Spring tree order form or to give him a call at 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610 to discuss planting projects.
“We can help with project design and help you to apply for funding for eligible projects,” he said. Funding programs are available in many areas for windbreaks or naturalization dependent on the type of project, location and specific program details.
Anyone who has property on which they can plant trees, should consider purchasing a tree through the tree order program. Those who don’t have room on their property for trees can still help to improve forest conditions by donating to tree planting through the Footprints to Forests program.
NEW BUS STOP COMING TO BRUCEFIELD IN FEBRUARY
Huron Shores Area Transit (HSAT) has added a new bus stop in the Municipality of Bluewater in Brucefield, expanding access to affordable and accessible public transit for area residents and placing the service within easy reach of nearby communities such as Clinton and Vanastra.
The new bus stop is located on Ellen Street South at Mill Road and will be served by Route 3 (Grand Bend to Goderich via Bluewater) starting Monday, Feb. 2nd.
Route 3 operates on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons, stopping in Brucefield at 12:39 p.m. and 3:19 p.m. when travelling toward Goderich, and at 1:53 p.m. and 4:33 p.m. on return trips to Grand Bend. Other stops along Route 3 include St. Joseph (West Huron Care Centre), Zurich, Hensall, and Bayfield.
Passengers can travel to Goderich and return the same day by taking the 12:39 p.m. bus from Brucefield and returning on the 4 p.m. bus from Goderich. The Goderich stop is located at the RioCan plaza on Huron Road near the Walmart entrance, providing convenient access to major retailers including Walmart, Zehrs, PetValu, Canadian Tire, and Mark’s Work Warehouse.
When Route 3 returns to Grand Bend at 5:12 p.m., the bus switches over to operate Route 2 to London via South Huron, with stops in Dashwood, Exeter, Huron Park, and Centralia. This makes it possible to travel from Brucefield to London and arrive near the Masonville Mall at 6:20 p.m. Currently, same-day return service from London to Brucefield is not available.
Fares are $6 to Grand Bend and $12 to Goderich and London. A bike corral is scheduled to be installed at the Brucefield stop in Spring/Summer 2026, enabling passengers to bike to the stop and securely store their bicycles before boarding the bus.
For complete details on routes, schedules, fares, and Smart Cards, visit HuronShoresAreaTransit.ca.
GERIATRICIAN FEATURED AT VIRTUAL Q&A SESSION
Dr. Alexandra Peel (Submitted photo)
During Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Alzheimer Societies across Canada unite to challenge dementia stigma and create a community where everyone feels more comfortable talking about dementia and sharing their own experience. Alzheimer Society Huron Perth is featuring three special education events in the community.
“Talk with the Doc! Top Five Geriatric Papers” with Dr. Alexandrea Peel will take place on ZOOM on Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 1:30-3 p.m. Local geriatrician, Dr. Peel, will discuss hot topics from the research world. New medication and treatments? Join and find out! Talk with the Doc, an annual January event, also includes a lively Q&A session with Dr. Peel after the presentation. To self-register for this free event visit: Doc Talk 2026.
Alzheimer Society Huron Perth is also once again offering the “Dementia Basics Series” free one-hour online sessions that are designed to answer individual’s most frequently asked questions. What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? What are the early signs of dementia – and should I be worried? People can join on ZOOM this winter on Monday afternoons and evenings. To self-register visit Education Hour .
The dates and topics for the Dementia Basics Series are: Jan. 26, What is Mild Cognitive Impairment?; Feb. 2nd, 10 Common Signs – Should I be Worried?; Feb. 9, Types of Dementia – What is the difference between Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease?; March 2nd, Brain Changes; and March 9, Communication Tips.
The “Virtual Memory and Aging Program” is the online version of the popular Memory & Aging course. It includes the review of age-related memory changes, how to optimize brain health, and helpful memory strategies. The Memory and Aging program will take place on ZOOM on Wednesdays, from Feb. 4th to Feb. 18, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. The cost for a workbook is $25 and financial assistance is available. To self-register visit: Memory and Aging Program Winter 2026.
To find out more about these and other upcoming programs, click on the Education Hour banner at www.alzheimer.ca/huronperth. People can also contact the offices directly by calling 1-800-561-5012 or emailing info@alzhp.ca.
ALZHEIMER AWARENESS MONTH MOVIES HAPPENING AT HURON COUNTY MUSEUM
Alzheimer Society Huron Perth’s free Awareness Month Movie event will return to the Huron County Museum in Goderich on Jan. 29 and Feb. 5.
Organizers chose these films to open heartfelt conversations about dementia and offer glimpses into the lives of families, caregivers, and friends as they navigate its challenges. While the stories aren’t perfect, they inspire people to reflect: How would we respond in similar moments? What can we learn from the successes, missteps, and joy they find along the way?
“Headful of Honey” (2019) returns this year after last year’s weather cancellation. Starring Nick Nolte as Amadeus, a widower facing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, the film follows his move to London, England to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and spirited granddaughter, Tilda. When Amadeus longs to revisit his past, Tilda takes him on an unexpected journey to Italy – an adventure that transforms their lives and strengthens family bonds.
Headful of Honey will be shown on Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 7 p.m
“The Leisure Seeker” (2018) stars Helen Mirren (Ella) and Donald Sutherland (John). The story has the characters’ reckon with their lives as they face severe health issues. They set out on a cross-county road tour, determined to escape their worried family for one last adventure in their old RV, “The Leisure Seeker”. Along the way, Ella and John explore their shared life history and confront the complexities of aging. Bittersweet humor, heartbreaking realities, and a surprise ending accompany their journey.
The Leisure Seeker will be featured on Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 2 p.m.
Although free admission is offered, donations will be gratefully accepted at the door.
The Huron County Museum is located at 110 North Street in Goderich.
LIVERY FILM FEST
The Livery Film Fest is pleased to announce its next film presentation, “Blue Moon”, screening for one night only on Thursday, Jan. 29. To date, Blue Moon has won thirteen notable awards and received over forty nominations including two prestigious Golden Globe Awards in the Comedy or Musical category and the film is generating strong Oscar buzz.
Directed by Richard Linklater, Blue Moon is a biographical drama starring Ethan Hawke as Lorenz “Larry” Hart, the brilliant and troubled lyricist best known as one half of the legendary songwriting duo Rodgers and Hart. Together, they created enduring songbook standards such as “The Lady Is a Tramp” and “My Funny Valentine.”
The film is set on March 31, 1943, during the opening night of the Broadway musical “Oklahoma!”. By this point, composer Richard Rodgers has taken a break from his long-standing collaboration with Hart, citing Hart’s alcoholism and growing unreliability. As the evening’s celebrations unfold, Hart – bitter, wounded, and sharp-tongued – offers caustic commentary on the show’s success, particularly the lyrics written by Rodgers’ new collaborator, Oscar Hammerstein.
As the party winds down, Hart lingers behind, sharing drinks and conversation with a bartender and a piano player he affectionately calls “Knuckles”. The night brings a series of poignant and awkward encounters, including a chance meeting with author E. B. White, whom Hart encouraged to write a children’s story about a mouse named “Stuart”.
Anchored by a stellar cast and a deeply nuanced performance from Hawke, Blue Moon is a wry, moving exploration of artistic brilliance, personal decline, and creative legacy.
The Livery Film Fest will present Blue Moon on Jan. 29 at the Park Theatre in Goderich. The box office opens at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. showtime.
Park Theatre is located at 30 Courthouse Square in Goderich.
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 Jan. 12.
- Directed staff to schedule the statutory Public Meeting in March 2026 to obtain public feedback regarding the proposed Official Plan Amendment and that staff are to finalize the second draft of the Official Plan and post online prior to the advertised statutory public meeting.
- Directed the Manager of Facilities to work with Seeds Rooted in Youth to develop an agreement for the use of the grounds at 2 Jane Street, Bayfield for a community garden.
- Directed staff to make available to the public all recordings of Council meetings on the Municipality of Bluewater’s YouTube channel for public viewing, commencing January 2026.
- Appointed Streamline Engineering Inc. as interim Drainage Superintendent.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS
The Municipality of Bluewater is currently undertaking an expansion to the Bayfield Waste Water Treatment Plant (BWWTP); the project is projected to meet completion in the Summer of 2026, subject to weather and project milestones.
This expansion is necessary as the BWWTP has been operating at capacity and planning proposals for new and/or infill development were not feasible within the settlement area. The Municipality is also working towards the development of a Servicing Allocation Policy in Bayfield which will help manage and distribute available allocation. The expanded capacity and allocation policy will allow for new development in Bayfield.
In anticipation of this additional reserve capacity, and as of Jan. 5, the Council of the Municipality of Bluewater has authorized planning staff to formally accept planning applications within the Bayfield settlement area for new development with the understanding that the expanded plant will not be fully operational until Summer 2026 (estimated). By accepting applications at this time, applicants will have time to prepare necessary studies, submit applications, and to allow for required review and processing time under the Planning Act. This only applies to the settlement area of Bayfield.
Questions or requests for further information can be directed by mail to: Bluewater Municipal Office, 14 Mill Ave., Zurich, ON, Attention: Planning Coordinator Lindsay Whalen, or by email to planninginfo@municipalityofbluewater.ca. Individuals may also call Sarah Smith, planner at 519 524-8394 Ext. 3 or Lindsay Whalen, Bluewater Planning coordinator at 519 236-4351 Ext. 235.
CONSERVATIONIST OF THE YEAR
Each year, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) recognizes outstanding achievements in conservation and stewardship with a conservation award. This year, in 2026, the award will be presented in the ABCA’s 80th anniversary year.
The local conservation authority has presented the Conservationist of the Year Award for more than four decades. Award winners have included rural landowners and residents, agricultural producers and farms, service clubs, community organizations, companies, nature groups, and municipalities.
ABCA invites the public to nominate a person, business, farm, community group, or organization in 2026 for the conservation award. They may submit a nomination form until Feb. 15. To submit a nomination, visit the abca.ca website. The nomination form can be found at: Conservation Award.
Ray Chartrand, chair of the ABCA Board of Directors, said the Conservationist of the Year Award is one of the ways the conservation authority can thank local stewards for protecting and enhancing local watershed resources.
“We are thankful for the land and water stewardship by watershed landowners, residents and community groups,” he said. “Our conservation authority began in 1946 and, in our 80th anniversary year, we are pleased to present this award of recognition once again. We encourage the public to nominate worthy nominees for this award.”
Individuals, organizations or companies who either reside in or have completed conservation work in the ABCA area are eligible to win the Conservationist of the Year award. Current ABCA staff members and directors are excluded. The Conservation Award acknowledges one individual or group per year who demonstrates positive, sustainable conservation principles. The nominee must have undertaken conservation efforts over a number of years showing long-term benefits for nature and society. Examples of conservation work include: improving local water quality; conservation farming; reforestation; conservation education; providing wildlife and fish habitat; and promoting awareness and action for soil, water, and habitat for all living things.
ABCA presents the winner with a hand-crafted gift and makes a donation towards a tree and plaque at a Commemorative Woods site maintained by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation.
COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) invites Mid-Huron residents to register for the Goderich Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk happening Saturday, Feb. 28.
“Six years ago, I joined the Coldest Night of the Year walk in Goderich to help people living on the street,” said Bernice Glenn, “Bernie’s Bunch” team captain and CNOY Goderich committee member. “As I head into my seventh year being involved with CNOY, I can’t believe we are still facing this crisis — a crisis that continues to grow in our community and across Huron County.
“More than ever, the need is real. Please do whatever you can to support this event and to educate yourself before speaking. The people who endure these gruelling elements are someone’s neighbor, friend, colleague, son, daughter, brother or sister. Please, be kind. Help however you can. Register. Donate. Walk with us on February 28. And if nothing else, offer a simple hello to the people who need us more than ever.”
Everyone is encouraged to visit cnoy.org, register and start fundraising. Participants raising over $150, or $75 for youth under 18, receive a CNOY toque. Details on toque pick-ups to follow. For updates, follow the “Goderich Coldest Night of the Year” page on Facebook.
By fundraising and walking, people are helping support the Huron Homelessness Initiative, including emergency shelter for women and children escaping violence, youth shelter supports, counselling services, food insecurity, “Heart to Home”, transitional housing and the Huron Supportive Housing Advocate.
UWPH thanks returning Lead sponsor Jayden’s Mechanical, along with Canadian Tire Goderich, Capital Power, Compass Minerals, McDonald’s Goderich and the West Wawanosh Mutual Insurance Company.
UNITED WAY
United Way Perth-Huron (UWPH) is looking for community members to volunteer in local tax clinics for the 2026 tax season.
“Volunteer tax clinics are one of the most direct ways we can help our neighbors struggling with affordability,” said UWPH Director of Community Impact and Research, Kristin Crane. “Filing taxes enables households to get the refunds and benefits they’re entitled to, which can make such a big difference. Supporting that process is an immensely rewarding volunteer opportunity.”
Volunteer clinics are powerful community initiatives supporting seniors, newcomers, students and those receiving income from social assistance programs. In 2024 alone, 1,780 returns were filed through the program in Huron and Perth, garnering an estimated $4.8 million in refunds and benefits for local households.
Volunteer tax filers work with local organizations to file taxes for individuals with modest incomes and simple tax situations. The CRA provides tax-filing software, training and funding for supplies.
Clinics across the region need volunteers to maintain their services and expand to serve new communities. South Huron in particular needs more volunteer support.
“For anyone with some experience and comfort with computers and paperwork, this is a great way to give back,” added Crane. “If you use online banking or have ever filed your own taxes online, you can play a valuable role helping others.”
To learn more about volunteering with tax clinics, please visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
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.
Throughout 2026, Bayfield is celebrating 150 years since incorporation. This is the perfect excuse to occasionally feature artifacts that represent village history. This week, we highlight a piece in the Museum collection linked to folks that came to Bayfield in 1876!
FLATWARE
This is a framed fork and knife. The frame box is a dark reddish-brown with decorative trim. On the back of the frame is a card for “The Green Gallery” in Blyth, ON the business that framed the set. This knife and fork were brought to the Bayfield area by Robert and Elizabeth Turner.
Robert William Turner married Elizabeth Madge in Devonshire, England in 1876 and sailed on the steamship “Hibernia” some time during 1876 (exact date not known). The couple settled near Bayfield, ON.
Screenshot
Flatware
THE BEST OF THE BAYFIELD BREEZE 2025
A RETROSPECTIVE OF VILLAGE HAPPENINGS FROM SEPT. 10 TO DEC. 31ST
STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
This week we conclude our Review of 2025 by highlighting happenings from Sept. 10 to Dec. 31st.
As we embark on a New Year of sharing the news and events of Bayfield and surrounding area, there is no better time for us to extend our heartfelt thanks to our advertisers for without their financial support we wouldn’t be able to come into your email inbox each Wednesday morning. Several of these advertisers have been with us for all our 16 plus years and we are so happy to celebrate this fact. We would also like to pass along a word of thanks to the seasonal businesses in this community that regularly advertise with us from April to October – Spring will be here soon – we encourage our readers to keep an eye out for their return to our weekly issues.
And we would like to welcome our more recent advertisers, interest in advertising in the Bayfield Breeze continues to grow each year and we are truly grateful for this vote of confidence in our publication.
We encourage our subscribers to support our advertisers by visiting their websites (click on their ad) and consider them first when in need of a product or service.
To conclude this retrospective I would like to share a portion of an email that came into my inbox a few weeks ago:
“I only recently learned about your publication. As a former publisher and journalism professor (10 years at Western’s MA program) I have deep respect for your commitment to the community and perseverance to do such important work.” – K.T.
This note was received with humble thanks but was also a reminder that to ensure the success of this publication we can’t become complacent. We encourage all our readers to share the issues with people who have yet to subscribe and to invite them to do so! Help us keep the forward momentum going into 2026, an especially exciting time as we celebrate the 150th year of village incorporation.
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 braved the elements to collect the post from our rural mailbox one day last week and tucked it safely inside my jacket so as not to get it damp from the snowflakes that were falling. Safely inside, coat and boots off, I sat down to have a closer look at the “Focus” – below the front page photo I found a “Note to Readers” that was a stark reminder of a conversation I wrote about in this very space just seven short weeks ago: “once local media is lost we won’t ever get it back again.” (Bayfield Breeze – Issue 857 – Dec. 10, 2025)
The note announced that the Jan. 15, 2026 issue of the Goderich Focus would be the last: “The change reflects the shifting news media landscape and the news consumption patterns of our readers.” They offered reassurances that homeowners will continue to receive their regular flyers and that their journalism can be read through their other digital platforms and that no staff reductions were being made due to the discontinuation of the print publication. All nice things to know but I wonder how many of the residents of the approximately 18,200 homes the copies were delivered to even noticed.
A few short decades ago I had the privilege of filling in for the then editor of the Focus for a month while he was on holidays. It was a natural transition for me as I was Special Editions Editor for the Goderich Signal-Star at the time. In that era – some might call them the good old days – the Focus was published every other week and was two thick sections. It offered its contributors a chance to be creative and featured human interest and mostly good news stories from the Signal-Star Publishing region. Being given carte-blanche and producing those two issues were a highlight of my print career.
In contrast, the final issue of the Focus had seven pages of content and four advertisers and ironically there seems to be no mention of its loss anywhere online or on social media. It simply went quietly into that good night…with no apologies to the late poet Dylan Thomas. My heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to this unique publication over the years. I for one, at least, will miss it. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.