The Bayfield BreezeIssue 877 Week 18 Vol 17
April 29, 2026
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PIONEER PARK ASSOCIATION FIRST GRANT RECIPIENT
Bayfield Advisory Committee (BAC) members and guests participated in the first cheque presentation from the Bayfield Community Fund administered through the Sunset Community Foundation on the afternoon of Saturday, Apr. 25 at the 150th Birthday Booth at the Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show held at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena. Taking part in the presentation were from l-r: Scott Gregory, who received the cheque on behalf of the Pioneer Park Association; Nancy Lowrey, BAC member; Abby Armstrong, Bayfield Advisory advocate; Sarah (Sally) Koonce, fundholder of the Brigadier Morgan and Emily Smith Fund; Leslee Squirrell, BAC member; Robert Tremain BAC chair; and Jane Falconer, BAC member. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Congratulations to the Pioneer Park Association on being selected as the recipient of the inaugural Bayfield Community Fund grant through the Sunset Community Foundation.
This first grant of $2,785, drawn from the Brigadier Morgan and Edith Smith Fund, was proudly presented on Apr. 25 as part of Bayfield’s Sesquicentennial celebrations at the Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show. It marks an important milestone in building a lasting, community-driven source of support for local initiatives.
The Pioneer Park Association’s Video Archives Project is a meaningful initiative that will preserve and celebrate the rich history of Pioneer Park and the many individuals who have contributed to its legacy over the years.
The Bayfield Community Fund Advisory Committee members are grateful for the dedication of local volunteers and community members who continue to bring projects like this to life. This is exactly the kind of impact the Bayfield Community Funds are created to support – ensuring that local priorities are understood and funded for generations to come.
Community members who wish to donate or establish a family fund in support of programs serving Bayfield are encouraged to reach out.
If you know anyone interested in participating as a Bayfield Advisory Member, volunteer applications are being accepted.
The Sunset Community Foundation welcomes conversations about meaningful ways to give back locally. More information is available at: Ways to Give.
BLUEWATER’S FIRST COMMUNAL GARDEN TAKING ROOT THIS SPRING
In a communal garden, people grow and caretake the space together and offer up the food to those in need. (Submitted photo)
Bluewater’s first communal garden is set to take root this Spring receiving municipal approval to be situated adjacent to the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB).
“The Bayfield Communal Garden is a place to build connection and reciprocity,” said Janneke Vorseteveld, who led the vision for the garden.
“Food is a cornerstone of human rights. There are many issues I cannot influence, yet I can help with food security. I can grow food. It’s that basic,” said Vorsteveld, owner of Seeds Rooted in Youth, which offers outdoor education, food gatherings, and experiences that nourish confidence, connection, and a sense of deep belonging.
That’s exactly what a communal garden offers.
“It’s named a communal garden deliberately versus a community garden,” explained Vorsteveld.
Many are familiar with community gardens which offer individual plots for individual consumption. In a communal garden, people grow and caretake the space together and offer up the food to those in need.
“We are essentially communal peoples. In our history, food brought us together. We needed each other to hunt and gather. Food is our staple and societal glue.”
It’s the ideal fit that the garden will be located adjacent to the BAFB, which will be a recipient of its bounty. On the Seeds Rooted for Youth’s website, Vorsteveld shares that such gardens can produce an average of 1.43 kg per square meter, providing fresh produce throughout the growing season. With the high cost of living and increased demand at food banks, the garden will donate 50 per cent or more of the harvested food to those in need through various channels.
Vorsteveld presented her vision to the Municipality of Bluewater’s council and received its support. She is currently working with municipal staff to lay out the site. In outlining the many benefits, Vorsteveld pointed to the opportunity to align with the Kids Camp offered by the municipality.
“It’s a natural setting for teaching of all ages, and specifically an offering for high school students to achieve their volunteer hours,” added Vorsteveld.
The site offers significant room to expand over seasons. Initially, it will feature three 4×6 foot raised beds and one wheelchair accessible raised bed being built by Goderich District Collegiate Institute students. Vorsteveld is working toward the May long weekend to kick off the garden.
While not an expensive undertaking, the Bayfield Communal Garden will create a wish list of resources it needs to begin. Supporters will be able to purchase materials that the communal garden requires directly from local vendors. Examples include lumber, soil, compost and seeds. Vorsteveld would welcome the assistance of local vendors and the community in donating seeds, garden gloves, and other gently used tools. People are encouraged to save their compostable bags filled with leaves to fill the bottom of the raised beds. They can also support by signing up to regularly weed, water, or plant. Even a few hours a week will help.
While just the beginning, Vorsteveld aspires to continue to develop programming around the communal garden and work with other Bluewater communities to begin a local garden. With access to a certified commercial kitchen, the initiative could provide homemade meals, and teach valuable skills.
“There’s an emotional connection to our food. A carrot tastes better if we grow it ourselves even if it has a little dirt on it.“
People can express interest by contacting Janneke Vorsteveld either through the website Seeds Rooted in Youth or at seedsrooted@gmail.com.
PURCHASE TICKETS PRIOR TO LONG WEEKEND TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT
Weather conditions at the 12th Rubber Duck Race held in May 2025 were best suited to ducks: breezy, cool and damp, making for a brisk current in the river and a quick finish to the race. What will 2026 have in store for these plastic water fowl? Buy a ticket in advance, come out for 1 p.m. on May 17 and witness the events first hand! (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
One of the Optimist Club of Bayfield’s most important fundraisers of the year is fast approaching and it’s one to “quack” about! Yes, the Rubber Duck Race has been set for Sunday, May 17 and the Optimists need people to purchase their tickets now not only to ensure the race is a sell-out success but to avoid disappointment.
Every year people arrive at the pier hoping for tickets but to ensure ease of organization on race day the ducks need to all be “purchased” ahead of time.
Tickets are selling for $5 each or five chances for $20.
This year there are seven opportunities to win! First and second prizes are both bicycles valued at $250 each and donated by Deb Penhale of Talbot Realty. Third prize is a complete fishing kit valued at $350 and donated by Brian Coombs of Remax Reliable Realty. Fourth to sixth prizes are gift cards all valued at $100. Bayfield Recreational Sales has donated a card for Bayfield Chamber Bucks; while the Marine Store and Nabit have donated cards for their own businesses. Finally, the seventh prize is a gift card for one hour of free skating at the Bayfield Arena. The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena has also sponsored this prize valued at $75.
Money raised from the event will go toward the Optimist Club’s many “friends of youth” projects. Licence #M855529
Tickets are available now from club members or by emailing Optimist President Jeff Kish at jeff.kish.home@gmail.com. They are also available at Nabit of Bayfield located at 19 Main Street North from Thursday to Sunday or Bayfield Marine, 23 Fisherman’s Wharf Road, which is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
BOUTIQUE STYLE THRIFT SHOP RECEIVES OVERWHELMINGLY POSITIVE RESPONSE
Huron Hospice is pleased to be leasing the historic “blue house” at 5 The Square in Bayfield as the location for a new fundraising endeavour – a thrift shop. (Submitted photo)
“Since announcing the opening of the thrift shop (in Bayfield), we have received an incredible amount of positive response from the community,” said Willy Van Klooster, executive director at Huron Hospice. “We could not be more pleased with the feedback, as well as the response we have received so far regarding volunteering and donations.”
Huron Hospice is pleased to be leasing the historic “blue house” at 5 The Square to support this exciting venture. They are looking to hire one full-time manager, which is a paid position. For more information and how to apply, check out: Huron Hospice Jobs.
After originally choosing the name Second Wind Thrift Shoppe, a challenge was discovered, so the name has now been changed to “Moments Matter”.
To truly make this a community social enterprise, they are looking for volunteers to assist the manager. Anyone who is interested in supporting Huron Hospice, is looking to participate in a fun enterprise, learn new skills and appreciate making new social contacts, is asked to consider volunteering with them. They are also looking for one particular volunteer who has retail experience and who is interested in joining the Board of Directors Social Enterprise Committee, which will provide governance oversight to the thrift shop. For further details or questions about volunteering, please contact Kelli McGregor, volunteer coordinator at Huron Hospice 519 525-8648 or kelli.mcgregor@huronhospice.ca
The store will be stocked with donations from the community. When doing Spring cleaning, Huron Hospice invites people to kindly save any clean, good-quality items that will be suitable for donation, such as clothing and accessories, household and décor items, small sporting goods, craft supplies and small furniture items. A detailed list will soon be available on their website, which is currently under construction. They are planning to start receiving these donations in June. They will also be offering a donation pick-up service, with more details to follow. The thrift shop is projected to open in July. Please follow the Bayfield Breeze for further updates.
They are looking for immediate donations of racks, shelving, cabinets, tables, a vacuum cleaner, a small fridge, a portable air conditioner and storage bins. People are asked to please get in touch with them if they are able to help out with any of these items.
Anyone who is able to help them with their start-up expenses, is asked to kindly contact Varekamp at hvarekamp@gmail.com or drop a donation by the Hospice. E-transfer or online donations will soon be accommodated. As a non-profit organization, they will be able to give a tax receipt for any monetary donations over $20. Additionally, founding sponsors recognition will be accommodated on their website, which will include all donations over $500.
The entire team at Huron Hospice is truly looking forward to opening up the thrift shop and to working with the Bayfield Community. They want to express their thanks for the overwhelming support they have already received from many community members.
LIONS’ STAGE WRAPPED FOR SESQUICENTENNIAL
The stage is beautifully adorned with photography from fellow Lions member and avid photographer Jack Pal. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Lions Club is proud to announce the unveiling of its newly wrapped stage, beautifully adorned with photography from fellow Lions member and avid photographer Jack Pal. This striking design celebrates the 150th anniversary of Bayfield, capturing the essence and beauty of the community.
The stage was showcased at the Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show on Apr. 25-26, inviting the public to view this artistic representation of Bayfield’s rich history and vibrant culture. Residents and visitors alike were encouraged to explore the stage and learn how they can rent it for various special events.
“This wrap not only beautifies our stage but also pays homage to the wonderful community we are proud to serve,” said Karen Scott, Lions president.
The Bayfield Lions Club has been an integral part of the community since 1947, dedicated to service and support. The new stage wrap is a testament to their ongoing commitment to enhancing local events and celebrations.
For more information or to book the stage for an event, please visit bayfieldlions.ca.
MAY HIKING THEMES EXPLORE BIRDWATCHING AND MINDFULNESS
Some staff from the Virtual High School and other community members joined in the traditional Earth Day Village Clean Up organized by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association on Apr. 22. (Submitted photo)
Members of the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) would like to offer a thank you to everyone who participated in their Earth Day Village Clean-up on Apr. 22. About 20 volunteers joined in the annual event collecting trash along most of the streets in Bayfield.
The BRVTA would like to offer a special shout out to the Virtual High School for sending their team. And thank you to the Municipality of Bayfield for their continued support. Let’s continue to work together to keep the village beautiful.
The BRVTA has two activities in the works for the month of May – birdwatching and a Meditative Hike.
George Ebers will lead this popular Birdwatching event on his property at Windmill Lake on Saturday, May 19, starting at 8:30 a.m. Ebers will lead a search for Spring warblers and many other species that frequent the area. Please note that this hike is open to BRVTA members only.
Please register with Ralph Blasting by email at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or phone 519 525-3205. Those taking part should meet and park at 35957 Bayfield River Road. No dogs please.
Not a member? Visit Bayfield Trails Memberships and Donations and click “Subscribe”. Annual membership is $20 per individual or $30 for a family.
On May 23, organizers are happy to have Jen Pate lead the inaugural Meditative Hike on the Sawmill Trail starting at 11 a.m.
Pate is a Life & Death Transition Guide based in Bayfield. She brings together her experience and training as a Meditation Mindfulness Teacher, End-of-Life Doula & Nature-Based Recreation Therapy Provider to help people navigate significant thresholds of change throughout life ~ including the end of it. To learn more visit: www.re-creation.ca.
She is also co-founder of Love Your Greats, a Bayfield-based non-profit initiative that, for the past decade, has been focused on raising awareness for the relationship between recreation, connection and protection of the Great Lakes region. They have a free social Rec Club that explores the BRVTA Trails over the Winter and paddles from the Bayfield River Flats in the Summer. More info can be found at: Love Your Greats – Rec Club.
Pate has been privileged and fortunate enough to have trekked to the top of mountains and sailed to the middle of oceans ~ remote places people normally associate with being necessary to find “peace” and perspective for navigating everyday life. But she believes people don’t need to go on big adventures or to remote places in order to find calm, clarity and care ~ for themselves, one another and the natural world they are a part of. Instead, they can find it in themselves right where they are – in their own homes, on the trails in Bayfield, on the water of Lake Huron – across this shared “backyard”.
Everyone is welcome on this Meditative Hike but pre-registration is required so that organizers are aware of the number of participants. Please register by email or phone to Ralph Blasting whose contact info is listed above.
Participants are asked to meet at the entrance to the Sawmill Trail at the end of Sawmill Road.
COFFEE TABLE BOOK MARKING THE SESQUICENTENNIAL AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER
In celebration of Bayfield 150, and to honor the Bayfield community for years to come, the Photography Club of Bayfield (PCoB) and the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) with support from the Bayfield Lions Club are working together to create an heirloom-quality coffee table book that is available for preorder.
“Images of Bayfield” is available to order now. The book will be a high-quality, hard-covered 11.5” X 9” (29 cm X 23 cm) book with stunning photographs and short historical vignettes celebrating 150 years of Bayfield. The book is being developed and produced wholly in Canada with photos contributed from PCoB members, the BHS and other area photographers.
This beautiful book will sell for $85, well below the industry standard for a book of this quality. A pre-sale price of $75 is available until June 30. And for an additional $25 ($100 total), your name will appear in the book on a list of Images of Bayfield Community Supporters. This offer is available until May 20 to the first 150 Supporters – open to individuals and families only, not businesses and organizations.
Early feedback suggests to the creative team that every Bayfield coffee table will want to sport a copy and businesses will want to purchase “Images of Bayfield” to display in their lobbies, in hotel rooms and as a differentiating client gift.
AND SO BEGINS THE SEASON OF KITTENS
Chuck acting as an ambassador for BFF at the Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show on Apr. 26. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The official seasons of feline rescue…Winter, kittens, Spring, KITTENS, Summer, kittens, Autumn, kittens…
The first two spunky little souls arrived at Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) last week and these brothers are the Adopt a BFF kittens of the week – Smudge and Chuck.
According to Deb Penhale, representing BFF, “They are part of an ongoing colony we are trying to get under control. They were in a shed with Mama and another sibling, however, mom was able to slip out of the enclosure and take one of the babies with her. She has been spotted and efforts are underway to bring this little family back together.”
Penhale went on to say that these boys were pretty scared initially as well as a little spicy as their Mama had obviously been teaching them to be wary of predators that came around quickly with food and lots of cuddles.
“In fact, they were a huge hit at the Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show on Sunday at the BFF booth,” said Penhale. “These two are at the exploring and tumbling stage and they love nothing better than engaging in wrestling matches with each other, and then curling up together for a nap.”
Anyone who might have room in their heart, and home, for Chuck and/or Smudge is asked to please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com.
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.
IT WAS A REALLY BIG SHOW!
The Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show held at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena was the place to be on the weekend. Held on Apr. 25-26, organizers are busy doing all the jobs that still need doing at the culmination of a successful event – so the Bayfield Breeze will share all the photographic highlights with our readers in an upcoming issue! (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
BOOK SALES AND DONATIONS
Book lovers are encouraged to shop local by attending the first Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) Book Sale for 2026 on May 16 at the Bayfield Branch Library.
People can browse tables of books of fiction, non-fiction, mysteries, thrillers, romance, fantasy, memoirs plus books for young adults and children from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
There will be best sellers waiting for folks to dive into. In addition to the May 16 sale, people are encouraged to mark all the scheduled FOBL Summer Book Sales on their calendars. These will be held on June 27, Aug. 1st and Aug. 15.
To ensure successful book sales this Summer, FOBL members are currently collecting gently used books with the exception of coffee table books and cook books.
Books will be gratefully accepted at the Bayfield Library on the following dates and times: Wednesday, May 6, Friday, May 15, and Friday, June 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Thursday, June 11 and Thursday, July 16 from 4-6:30 p.m.
Anyone who may need assistance carrying in their books is asked to please let FOBL volunteers know. For ease of delivery, park behind the library and use the back door by ringing the doorbell for access to the building. This door will bring people closer to the community meeting room where books are to be dropped off.
All proceeds from these book sales support the Bayfield Library and the FOBL thanks everyone in advance for their support.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street in the village.
SPRING CONCERT SERIES
Jane Bunnett (Photo courtesy Emma-Lee Photography)
The final instalment of the Bayfield Spring Concert Series hosted by the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society will feature a five-time Juno Award winner and Grammy nominee.
Jane Bunnett will grace the Bayfield Town Hall stage on the evening of Saturday, May 23. The concert shall commence at 7 p.m.
Bunnett has turned her bands and recordings into showcases for the finest musical talent from Canada, the U.S., and Cuba. She has been nominated for three Grammy Awards, received the Order of Canada, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Ontario Premier’s Award for Excellence.
Highly regarded on the Canadian jazz and world music scene as a band leader, soprano saxophonist, and flutist, Bunnett began digging deep into the music of Cuba during a trip there in 1982; falling in love with intricate folkloric Afro-Cuban rhythms and blending them with contemporary jazz sounds. Her groundbreaking work from this musical journey is highlighted through the legendary Spirits of Havana project and her current powerhouse band Maqueque.
Bunnett is celebrated globally for her fearless artistry and soulful sound.
Her Bayfield Town Hall performance will bring an unforgettable night of Afro-Cuban jazz exploring the passionate melodies and irresistible rhythms of Cuban music with the support of Cuban pianist Dánae Olano (Maqueque) and percussionist Reimundo Sosa.
Tickets for these concerts are available at bayfieldtownhall.com.
The Bayfield Town Hall Spring Concert Series is sponsored by 1851 Bayfield Landing.
The Bayfield Town Hall is located at 11 The Square in the village.
FIRESIDE CHAT FOR BFF
“Lessons from Cats for Surviving Fascism” is Stewart
“Brittlestar” Reynolds second book. (Submitted photo)
International best-selling author of “Lessons from Cats for Surviving Fascism” invites people to “channel their inner feline and confuse the fascists” by attending an upcoming fundraiser for Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) on Friday, May 29 at the TSJ Hall in Bayfield. And spots are limited as only a handful of seats remain!
Starting at 7:30 p.m., Stewart “Brittlestar” Reynolds, social media personality known for his ability to make people laugh at life’s little absurdities will be the featured guest at a “fireside” chat moderated by BFF’s own kitten expert, Mary Pounder.
Reynolds, who calls Stratford, ON home, became a full-time content creator in 2013. It was during Canada’s Sesquicentennial in 2017 that he really connected with a worldwide audience when his KFC campaign “Explaining Canada Day To Americans” became Facebook’s top branded video globally, since then his following has grown exponentially with more than 650 million views across platforms and hundreds of thousands tuning in weekly not only to his own videos but to listen to his commentaries on such national broadcasts as CTV News, Global National and CHCH.
His first book, “Welcome to the Stupidpocalypse: Survival Tips for the Dumbageddon” was published in 2023. Following the chat, there will be an opportunity for the audience to ask Reynolds questions and time will also be provided for a book signing by the author.
Reservations to a “Fireside Chat with Brittlestar” may be booked now by emailing Melody Falconer-Pounder at melody.pounder@gmail.com. Spots will be limited to 50 people and are available now for $45 each and will include refreshments and snacks.
Profits from the evening will assist BFF in their work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming cats and kittens because as Reynold’s himself notes in his most recent book, “no cat thrives alone.”
Organizers are most grateful for West Street Willy’s Eatery in Goderich for being a generous sponsor of this very special fundraising event for BFF.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
STRINGS IN BLOOM
A Trio of Friends will be gathering alongside special guests the Blyth Festival Strings for a concert on Sunday, May 3rd at St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield.
The concert entitled, “Strings in Bloom” will begin at 2:30 p.m.
The trio is composed of Martha Lawrance, harp; Mary McGoldrick, piano; and Danuta Wyant, cello.
Donations will be accepted for Huron-Perth Centre for child and youth mental health. To learn more about the benefactor visit hpcentre.on.ca.
St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in Bayfield.
PILATES
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena invites people to experience Pilates for all levels – from complete beginners to seasoned practitioners on Mondays and Thursdays beginning in May.
“Classical Pilates with Props” will be held on Mondays for eight weeks starting on May 4 at 6:30 p.m.
This class offers a strengthening, grounding practice that weaves Pilates principles with gentle yoga flow. Using light hand‑held weights and a small Pilates ball, the class supports strength, mobility, and mindful movement while creating a calm, steady rhythm in the body.
“Foam Roller Pilates” will be held on Thursdays for eight weeks, starting on May 7 at 6:30 p.m.
This dynamic class will blend Pilates fundamentals with the foam roller, small balls, and resistance bands. It offers a unique mix of muscle toning and gentle myofascial release for an invigorating, restorative experience.
Ready to join? Register online at www.thewellnesspotion.com.
CROQUET CLUB
Do you think croquet is slow? Think again. Croquet is a game of strategy, precision, and friendly competition – all played in a relaxed, social outdoor setting.
Members of the Bayfield international Croquet Club (BICC) would like to invite individuals to come try it for themselves. Most people are surprised how quickly they get hooked!
Recreational Play is offered on Tuesdays and Fridays between 9-11 a.m. and beginners are always welcome. Equipment and guidance are provided.
Interested? Please contact Leigh Selk via email at leighselk@yahoo.com or Ruth Percy rpercy@hotmail.ca for more information – or just show up!
Give it one morning – you may discover your new favorite pastime!
The Bayfield International Croquet Club is located at 100 David Street in the village.
TOWN HALL
The Bayfield Town Hall is looking for passionate community members to join its Board of Directors. Step up. Speak up. Shape Bayfield.
This is the chance to help guide one of Bayfield’s most cherished gathering places. From arts and culture to community events and future planning, board members play a hands-on role in keeping the Town Hall vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable for years to come.
Individuals don’t need previous board experience, just enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and a love for the community. Anyone who cares about Bayfield and wants to make a meaningful impact is asked to reach out to learn more about joining the board by contacting President Diane Snell via email at: diane@dianesnell.ca. Step forward. Get involved. Make a difference.
GIRL GUIDE COOKIES
A very limited number of Classic Chocolate and Vanilla Cream Sandwich Cookies remain as part of the Bayfield Guiding Spring fundraiser.
Members of Bayfield Guiding are currently selling these cookies for $6 a box.
Profits from this campaign ensure that badges, craft and program supplies can be purchased and that the cost of outings, overnights and camps can be supplemented.
Don’t know a member of Bayfield Guiding? Please contact Melody Falconer-Pounder at 519 525-3830 or email melody.pounder@gmail.com for any cookie purchasing needs.
GARDEN CLUB
Bayfield Garden Club volunteers unveiled their specially designed “150 Garden Aprons” at the Bayfield Lions Home and Lifestyle Show on Apr. 25-26. These aprons are now available for $35 with proceeds going to Huron Hospice. They will also be for sale at the club’s upcoming plant sale, May 9, or by contacting Lori Hill at 519 532-5274. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Bayfield Garden Club will be marking the village’s Sesquicentennial by selling two themed items in the coming weeks.
Specially designed “150 Garden Aprons” are now available for $35 with proceeds going to Huron Hospice. These aprons will be available at the club’s upcoming plant sale or by contacting Lori Hill at 519 532-5274.
They are also inviting community members to mark this milestone anniversary by bringing a touch of the Lake Huron sunset to their containers and garden beds by purchasing a “Bayfield 150 Flower”, also known as Orange Compact Sunpatiens. They will be selling plants in a 4.5 inch pot for $7.
These annual plants burst forth with vibrant bright orange flowers, providing a pop of color in both shady or sunny garden areas and containers. They offer abundant and continuous blooms throughout the Summer and Fall. They should be planted 20-24 inches apart and can grow to a 12-inch spread and height.
The aprons and the Bayfield 150 Flowers will be available on Saturday, May 9 at the Bayfield Garden Club Plant Sale to be held at the Bayfield Agricultural Society Display Building in Agricultural Park. Pre-orders of the Sunpatients are also welcome and encouraged. The Plant Sale will be held from 9-10:30 a.m. or until sold out.
In addition to the Sunpatients other items available at the plant sale will include: annuals, perennials, veggie plants, bulbs, herbs, shrubs, trees and house plants. And native plants will be available this year!
All plant donations should be in pots and labelled. Please note plants considered invasive will not be accepted. Plant donations should be brought to the Display Barn on Friday, May 8 between 2-5 p.m.
Please call Anna at 519 524-7455 or Lorriane at 519 653-7039 with expressions of interest in the Sunpatients. For further information on the Plant Sale please call 519 565-4018.
The Display Building is located in the fairgrounds at 1 Fry Street in Bayfield.
BAYFIELD 150 – THE SONG
ATLIS has created a song to celebrate Bayfield’s 150th anniversary. Inspired by the heart of this community and the natural beauty of the lakeside village, “Bayfield150” captures the feeling residents and visitors know so well – canopy-covered streets, open skies, vibrant Lake Huron blues and unforgettable sunsets.
It’s the sound of home for some, and the sound of discovery for others.
The vibe of the song features warm pads, marimba-style synth leads, and a relaxed 100-115 BPM groove blended seamlessly with gentle guitars, airy textures, and subtle coastal trumpet accents. The result is uplifting but calm.
This track is more than music. It’s a reflection of Bayfield’s spirit: welcoming, warm-hearted people; creative, artistic energy; tranquility by the lake; connection, celebration, and community; peaceful progress and forward motion
Feel It. Then Live It. Listen on Spotify. Search for “Bayfield150” by ATLIS.
CHESS CLUB
Check mate! The Bayfield Chess Club is now meeting weekly on Thursday afternoons at the TSJ Hall in the village.
The club is open to all ages and experience levels and offers people an opportunity to improve their game or simply learn the basics to play. The afternoon sessions will run for two hours starting at 1 p.m. The participation fee is $5 per session.
Anyone who would like to join is asked to please contact Gayle Beuermann at 519 525-6498 or email gaylbeue@tcc.on.ca.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
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 will be held on 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.
MEN’S BREAKFAST
The next Men’s Breakfast is scheduled for this Saturday, May. 2nd. All men in the community are invited for a fabulous meal and camaraderie served up at the TSJ Hall.
Coffee will be served at 9 a.m. with breakfast following at about 9:30 a.m. This is a pay what you are able event. To ensure enough food is available anyone planning to attend is asked to please email John Pounder at bvilego@gmail.com by Apr. 30th at noon.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield (formerly Trinity St James Parish Hall).
MAHJONG
Mahjong will be held on Wednesdays at the Bayfield Branch Library on a weekly basis.
Anyone who would like to learn this fun tile game are invited to join returning players starting at 1:30 p.m. Instruction will be given to those wanting to learn. Individuals who already know how to play are encouraged to come out to enjoy meeting others in a social setting.
Those who would like to learn more about MahJong are asked to please contact Marlene McDougall by calling 226 441-2075 or emailing marlenemcdougall7@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.
WEDNESDAY BRIDGE
The Bayfield Bridge Club meets on Wednesday afternoons at St. Andrew’s United Church.
Players do not need to attend with a partner to participate in these “drop-in” sessions. New people are invited to join in this great opportunity to make new friends as partners are switched after every four hands. There are weekly reviews on bidding responses at the beginning of each session for example, responses to a No Trump open etc. Snacks are served mid-session.
The cost to take part is $4 per player. The cards are shuffled at 1 p.m. All levels of players are welcome to take part in these games that are played year-round.
St Andrew’s United Church is located at 6 The Square in the village.
GATEWAY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE IN RURAL HEALTH TAKES GRAND PRIZE IN CANCER SCREENING CHALLENGE
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) was the recipient of $100,000 as the grand prize winner announced at MaRS Discovery District’s annual health tech summit Impact Health. The prize money stemmed from the Rural and Remote Community Cancer Screening Challenge organized and sponsored by MaRS Discovery District and the Canadian Cancer Society. Taking a moment for a photo during the summit held in Toronto on Apr. 23 were from l-r: Nyden Greenfield, research assistant at Gateway; Gwen Devereaux, Gateway president; Jason Matthews and Vanessa Silano, Canadian Cancer Society sponsors; and Dan Stringer, chair of the Board of Directors for Gateway. (Submitted photo)
On Apr. 23, MaRS Discovery District and the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) announced the grand prize winner of the Rural and Remote Community Cancer Screening Challenge, an innovation competition designed to improve access to cancer screening for people living in rural, remote and underserved communities across Canada.
The challenge called on a diverse group of innovators — founders, researchers and community organizations — to develop practical solutions that reduce barriers to screening participation. Five outstanding finalists were selected in August 2025 and received $15,000 to pilot their solution in the Fall.
Following an extensive evaluation process, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway), a non-profit based in Goderich, was selected as the winner of the challenge. The grand prize winner, who was announced at MaRS’s annual health tech summit Impact Health, receives $100,000 to support the scaling and implementation of its solution.
Gateway’s Integrated Rural Screening Initiative was designed to normalize cancer screening conversations in public, non-clinical settings. By embedding breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening education into active, community-centred programming, this solution has already achieved substantial reach across rural communities. Gateway increased awareness of cancer screening through multiple approaches, including targeted screening education, delivered at 10 in-person community events, reaching more than 450 rural residents, including farmers, firefighters, seniors and the general public, over five months.
“By integrating screening facilitation within trusted community settings, the model aims to improve uptake, streamline pathways to diagnostic follow-ups and reduce strain on primary care,” said Gwen Devereaux, president of Gateway. “We are excited about the opportunity this funding creates to continue advancing cancer screening initiatives in rural communities.”
The organization plans to use the funding to translate this awareness building into screening outcomes by integrating a nurse practitioner–pharmacy partnership model that uses rural pharmacies as accessible entry points.
“We know that screening saves lives,” said Annemarie Edwards, vice president of cancer strategy and innovation at the Canadian Cancer Society. “Through the Rural and Remote Community Cancer Screening Challenge, we have a real opportunity to increase screening participation across Canada, especially for people who face systemic barriers, so more people have the chance to detect cancer earlier, when treatment is more likely to be successful.”
“This challenge focused on a strengths-based approach to solution-building, recognizing the deep well of knowledge that exists in rural and remote communities. We are proud of all the unique community-driven solutions the challenge inspired across Canada,” said Shilpa Sharma, senior manager in health equity innovation at MaRS Discovery District.
MaRS Discovery District is a charitable organization and North America’s largest urban innovation hub, dedicated to helping Canadian technology companies succeed. With a focus on climate, health sciences and other emerging technologies, MaRS supports startups tackling some of the world’s most pressing issues. Through its world-class facilities, strategic programs and partnerships, MaRS accelerates the adoption of groundbreaking Canadian technology and bolsters a globally competitive innovation ecosystem.
CONSERVATION RAFFLE RESULTS PROVE TO BE BEST TO DATE
Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) presented the $6,900 prize, in the 50-50 Raffle Draw, to winner Marg Pavkeje, of Exeter, recently. Shown from l-r were: Paul Scott and Woody Wood, of Exeter Lions; Marg Pavkeje, winner; Janet Clarke, co-chair of the 36th Conservation Auction (online for 2026); and Charles Miner, ABCF chair. The net proceeds from the draw were presented by ABCF to the Exeter Lions Club for their projects in the community. The 50-50 prize total was the highest yet with a prize of $6,900. (Lottery Licence #M835243). (Submitted photo)
The 36th Conservation Auction, online for 2026, raised more than $30,000 for projects in local communities. This includes donations and net proceeds from the Conservation Auction and 50-50 raffle draw.
Janet Clarke and George Irvin were co-chairs of the auction. Clarke thanked the entire community for the generous support.
“There are so many people to thank,” she said. “On behalf of George and myself, and the entire Conservation Auction Committee, I would like to thank everyone who was a part of making this happen. We would like to extend our special thanks to all the amazing donors and to those who helped support the community by bidding on items at the auction.”
The Conservation Auction organizers ask winning bidders to pick up their items, during business hours, before the end of the month of April, at the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority office at 71108 Morrison Line, east of Exeter. If this is not possible, they are asked to contact the office, by calling 519 235-2610 or toll-free 1-888-286-2610, to make alternate arrangements.
The Conservation Auction has raised more than $1.456 million, over 36 years, in support of needed projects in local communities. Those local initiatives include parks and trails and conservation areas, outdoor recreation events and experiences for youth and families, conservation education for the young and young at heart, job and education opportunities for youth, and other local projects that depend on the auction for support.
The money raised for the community has been made possible thanks to generous local businesses, donors, sponsors, and bidders. It was also made possible by the work of community volunteers and a 36-year partnership between Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF), Exeter Lions Club, and the whole community.
Leading up to the last day of the online auction, ABCF conducted a 50-50 Raffle Draw in support of the community. ABCF Chair Charles Miner, accompanied by Clarke, drew the winning ticket, on Apr. 16 at 4 p.m., with winning number #0668. The winning ticket belonged to Marg Pavkeje, of Exeter. The 50-50 draw (Lottery Licence #M835243) in 2026 was the Foundation’s best yet, with a prize total of $6,900. The ABCF congratulates the winner and thanks everyone who bought tickets and who helped to sell tickets.
PUBLIC WELCOME AT GOLF TOURNAMENT FOR MAGNETIC MOMENTS
Ta Ta’s & Testicles Committee Chair Tracey Peters and Shar MacPherson, Goderich Tourism and Community Development assistant, pose with promotional materials that will be used during the fundraising golf tournament upcoming in June. (Submitted photo)
One hundred and twenty eight golfers will come together at the Goderich Sunset Golf Club on June 6 to raise money for the new MRI suite at the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) in Goderich.
This special tournament called “Ta Ta’s & Testicles” sold out in two days during the winter months and all funds raised will support the Magnetic Moments Campaign. The committee, which is composed of a group of local residents, wanted to create a fun tournament with ladies, mens and mixed groups of golfers with a focus on raising money instead of having it as a competitive event.
Huron County companies and residents have stepped up to support this event. There are sixteen sole hole sponsors, 20 sponsors of the first hole at the Goderich Sunset Golf Club, a hole in one sponsor on the second hole, swag bag sponsors, putting competition sponsors, registration table sponsors, a cart path sponsor, as well as a local brewery will host a tasting hole.
During the tournament, the public is welcome to drop out to the club and participate in the putting contest, the silent auction, raffle and purchase tickets for the 50/50 draw. On the course, the golfers will have different contests including the hole in one contest, and closest to the coconuts and jugs.
Organizers are so grateful for the response and support they’ve gotten from the community and local businesses in Huron County and beyond. To contribute funds or prizes to the cause, please email: 3TSTournament@gmail.com and follow them on Facebook at Ta Ta’s & Testicles Tournament and The After Party.
ORGANIZERS ARE PREPARING A PRIDE WEEK FOR THE AGES
Huron County Pride is thrilled to share the full lineup of events for their Fourth Annual Pride Festival, happening June 2-7.
In 2025, they welcomed more than 1,500 people to their festival and events throughout the week, and they look forward to another time of celebration and community building this June! They are excited to host their Pride Festival at a new location, as well as hosting more of their events in different parts of the county this year.
This year’s theme, “Pride through the Ages”, puts into perspective the voices raised, challenges faced, and achievements made by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies. It is also a call for all to continue the work of fostering inclusion, celebration, and pride. Whether joining in the events for the first time or returning to celebrate again, organizers can’t wait to welcome everyone!
Thanks to the support of local businesses, community groups, volunteers, and neighbors, this festival continues to grow. Every event is open to the public and designed to bring people together in fun, meaningful, and inclusive ways.
Here’s what’s happening:
On Tuesday, June 2nd, a Pride Poster-Making/Bring Your Own Craft Evening will be held at the Seaforth Branch Library from 6-8 p.m. This free event will start the Pride festivities off allowing people to flex their creative and community-building muscles. People are encouraged to bring their arts and crafts, and/or make some Pride posters in the vein of protest and celebratory posters used during the queer liberation movement. The Seaforth Library is located at 108 Main Street South in Seaforth.
Wednesday, June 3rd will feature a free Movie Afternoon at the Huron County Museum in Goderich. The festival is partnering with “No Hate in Huron” for a screening of “Parade: Queer Acts of Love and Resistance”, a documentary detailing the history and voices behind the 2SLGBTQIA+ movement in Canada. The film will begin at 2 p.m. There will also be time following the film for an intergenerational discussion around people’s own queer stories and presence in the community. The Huron County Museum is located at 110 North Street in Goderich.
On Thursday, June 4, from 5-8 p.m., it will be time for making throwback or fashion forward styles at a Tie-Dye/Acid Wash Evening at the MacNaughton Park Pavilion in Exeter. Participants at this free event should bring a shirt, shorts, or whatever other clothing they would like to “zhuzh up” and personalize. Alternatively, festival organizers will have limited t-shirts available for people to tie dye or acid wash. MacNaughton Park Pavilion is located at 68 Hill Street in Exeter.
Friday, June 5 will be Pride Trivia Night! Starting at 7 p.m., team up with friends for a friendly night of queer trivia at Bad Apple Brewing. People can test their knowledge, meet new people, and maybe win a prize or two. Organizers will be drawing from ages past and present for their questions, so all ages will have something to add! Bad Apple Brewing is located at 73463 Hwy. 21 near Zurich.
The Fourth Annual Huron County Pride Festival will be held on Saturday, June 6 in Lions Harbour Park in Goderich. This new location will offer more space and more opportunities to make connections and have a blast! Enjoy live music, drag performances, an artisan market, community booths, and the Family Pride Area. Everyone is welcome, and there’s something for all ages! This free festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lions Harbour Park is located at 168 West Street in Goderich.
On Sunday, June 7, two inclusive Pride Worship Services led by Rev. Alex Jebson, minister at Blyth and Brussels United Churches, and Chairperson of Huron County Pride, will be held. During these services, those who attend will celebrate Blyth and Brussels United Churches officially becoming Affirming Congregations, an official designation and commitment to being 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming communities. All are welcome as attendees reflect on the power of love, spirit, and community. Brussels United Church is located at 61 King Street in Brussels. The service shall begin at 9:30 a.m. Blyth United Church can be found at 430 Mill Street in the village. This service will commence at 11 a.m.
Also on Sunday, June 7 the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association will host Bayfield’s Fourth Annual Pride Walk. Participants are asked to meet at the Gazebo in Clan Gregor Square at 11 a.m. for a walk along the Heritage Trail. For more information contact Ralph Blasting via email at rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
All are encouraged to join in these events, and continue the work and community-building that is Pride. Let’s have a celebration for the ages!
GATEWAY LECTURE SERIES
Five counties in Ontario: Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, Perth, and Wellington are leading the way towards sustainable transportation. On Tuesday, May 5, Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) will explore the complex relationships between “Climate Change, Planning for EV’s and Community Health.”
This one-hour webinar will be held at noon via ZOOM.
Speakers include Dr. Wayne Caldwell, professor emeritus of the University of Guelph; Derry Wallis, Climate Change and Energy specialist; and Jason Geberdt, manager of IT Infrastructure and Operations at the County of Huron.
Residents in rural areas, on average, must travel further and have limited options for transit, making personal vehicles – and increasingly electric vehicles – an essential part of everyday mobility. This session will explore the realities of owning electric vehicles in rural areas, including the financial, environmental, and community health connections. This webinar will share how a collaboration between counties is one approach to developing municipal infrastructure that can reduce emissions and build regional connectivity.
Anyone in the community is welcome to attend. To attend this event and future presentations, please register at: Gateway Lecture Series.
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 Apr. 20.
- Granted exemptions from the Noise and the Hawkers, Peddlers and Buskers By-laws to REMAX Reliable Realty for playing music outside from 7 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. and the operating of one food truck from 7 p.m. to midnight, on Saturday, June 13, at the Bayfield Town Hall, 11 The Square, on the condition that the portable stage be pointed away from residential properties.
- Adopted the 2026 tax rates.
- Adopted a Water and Wastewater Allocation Policy.
- Awarded the Stanley Landfill Final Cover tender, Project No. 2402425 to McCann Redi-Mix in the amount of $351,071.60 excluding HST. Council also authorized a construction contingency of 15 per cent of the approved tender amount for the project and delegated authority to the Manager of Public Works to approve expenditures from this contingency to address unforeseen project conditions and risks to the upset of the established contingency.
- Directed staff to issue an Expression of Interest (EOI) to identify community groups interested in coordinating a program similar to the Green Legacy Tree Program, in accordance with the Municipality’s Protection and Enhancement of Trees Policy.
- Approved the Organizational Structure Review and Recruitment Services Program Charter dated Apr. 16 developed by KPMG.
ROTARY CLUB OF GRAND BEND
A mill burned down by vigilante farmers. A riot that filled the streets with angry young people. A dance hall where world-famous bands played. A river re-routed twice. A “folly” that became a prestige address. A man who owned the beach.
These are some of the stories told in “Days Pass Away Like a Dream, The Stories of Grand Bend”, a new book written by Pat Morden and published by the Rotary Club of Grand Bend.
“Rotary is proud to be part of this community and to contribute so much to it,” said Co-president Morag Watt. “We see this book as another important contribution. Whether you’ve lived in Grand Bend for decades or have just arrived, it provides a snapshot of the town’s development in an easy-to-read package.”
Morden, a Rotarian, who holds a master’s degree in history and has been a professional writer for more than 30 years, was commissioned to research and write the book.
“It’s a collection of stories about the people who built this town,” she said. “They are his stories, and her stories, funny stories, stirring ones, and sad ones. I had so much fun doing it!”
The 72-page book features many historical photographs reflecting changes over 200 years of history. Grand Bend started as a pioneer settlement focused on lumber and fishing, emerged as a lakeside resort in the early 20th century, and is now a growing retirement community.
Doug Millar, Chair of Rotary’s Local Service Committee said, “This book is a must for every home in Grand Bend!.”
Days Pass Away retails for $30. Books are available from any Rotarian, at the Grand Bend and Area Chamber of Commerce office located at 181 Crescent Street in Grand Bend; and at the Lambton Heritage Museum, 10035 Museum Road, Grand Bend.
All proceeds support local and international Rotary projects.
SUMMER BADMINTON
Looking for a fun way to stay active this summer? Weekly summer badminton is planned at the Stanley Community Centre in Varna, beginning May 5.
The program will run through to Aug. 25, for one hour starting at 7 p.m., depending on interest.
Everyone is welcome to take part. Some rackets and birdies will be available for use, and all participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. The final cost will depend on the number of people who commit for the full season. If 10 people sign up, the estimated cost would be approximately $70 per person.
Anyone interested in joining or learning more can contact Cathy Lalonde at 86cathy@gmail.com.
HCFBDC GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre’s (HCFBDC) Sixth Annual Golf Tournament has been set for Saturday, June 13 at the Seaforth Golf Club.
There will be a shotgun start at 1 p.m. with a light lunch being served and a dinner to follow the tournament.
The cost is $150 per person for 18 holes of golf including a cart and dinner People can register online at 2026 Golf Tournament Registration.
To learn more about the HCFBD please visit www.huroncountyfoodbank.org.
LIVING WELL SERIES
The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth invites community members to learn about brain health and dementia through their free, accessible online education programs through their “Living Well Series”.
On Tuesday, June 2nd, at 1:30 p.m., Sally Brodie from Huron Hospice will offer guidance for navigating grief and life transitions during “Bereavement and the Grief Process”.
Family members in caregiving roles are encouraged to attend “Care‑Partners: Dealing with the Feelings”, a four‑week program beginning Wednesday, July 22. This series focuses on the emotional aspects of caregiving, including stress, role changes, and coping strategies.
For details and registration for these online programs, visit the Education Hour banner at www.alzheimer.ca/huronperth. For assistance, contact 1‑800‑561‑5012 or email info@alzhp.ca.
MEMORY AND AGING PROGRAM
The Alzheimer Society Huron Perth is pleased to announce that the Memory & Aging Program™ will be offered this June at the MacKay Centre for Seniors in Goderich. This evidence‑informed program supports adults who are experiencing normal age‑related memory changes or who wish to learn more about how memory works.
The Memory & Aging Program™ explores how memory functions, how it naturally changes over time, and when changes may warrant further attention. Participants will learn practical, everyday memory strategies and brain‑healthy lifestyle approaches that can help with common challenges such as remembering names, locating misplaced items, and keeping track of daily tasks. The program is designed to be informative, enjoyable, and confidence‑building.
The program consists of four weekly sessions, held on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon, May 6,13, 27 and June 3rd. A $25 registration fee covers the cost of the program workbook and all materials.
Community members are encouraged to register early, as space is limited. To register or learn more, please contact: Jeanette, Public Education coordinator at the Alzheimer Society Huron Perth by calling 1‑800‑561‑5012 or via email at jeanettes@alzhp.ca.
The MacKay Centre for Seniors is located at 10 Nelson Street East in Goderich.
GODERICH CHESS CLUB
The Goderich Chess Club is held on Tuesday evenings at the Goderich Branch Library in the activity room.
This club warmly welcomes all chess enthusiasts of any age to join for their meetings which run from 6-8 p.m.
Whether a seasoned player or a newcomer eager to learn the game, this is the perfect opportunity to immerse in the world of chess. Participants may come and go as they please during this time. Equipment is provided and entry is free.
The Goderich Branch Library is located at 52 Montreal Street in Goderich.
BAYFIELD ACTIVITIES
Looking for what is happening now in the village? Look no further than the Bayfield Activities Calendar . People are invited to refer to this website to learn what activities, from Pickleball to Mahjong, are happening and when.
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.
Just as Bayfield is celebrating a Sesquicentennial in 2026, its neighbors to the north, Goderich, celebrated their 150th anniversary in 1977. This week, we feature an artifact from their celebrations held almost 50 years ago…
HOUSE FLAG
This is a house flag for Gulf Oil Company Ltd. This flag is made of 100 per cent nylon material. It is blue in color with a strip of white along one end where a rope is sewn in that fastens to the flag pole. In the centre is the logo for the Gulf Oil Company: a circle, top and bottom half in orange, outlined in white, centre in white with the letters “GULF” in blue.
One of the several flags flown on the flag standards along the pier at the Goderich Harbour during the 1977 Sesquicentennial celebrations. These flags, new in 1977, were sent by the various shipping companies to support the Marine theme. Sunday July 3rd, 1977 was Mariner’s and Railroader’s Day, which included: Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker, “Alexander Henry”; and United States Coast Guard icebreaker, “Sundew”.
There was also a sail past by the Goderich Power Squadron and the Goderich Sailing Club. Thirty decorated yachts and boats took part, assisted by the Canadian Coast Guard Cutter, “Rapid”. There was also a display of marine artifacts in a tent on the harbor grounds and a mariners’ reunion of captains and chief engineers. Approximately 20, six engineers and 14 captains all hailing from Goderich, were in attendance.
Screenshot
Gulf branded flag
GLEE SISTERS
“PURRFECT” DAY TO RAISE FUNDS FOR FELINES USING THE GIFT OF SONG
PHOTOS AND STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
Sunday, Apr. 26 was the “purrfect” day for the Glee Sisters Choir’s “Spring Sing” and a generous crowd came out for their afternoon performance at St. Andrew’s United Church in Bayfield.
This year the choir selected Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) as the recipient of funds collected at their benefit concert with admission being a donation to the cause.
Deb Penhale, founder of BFF, gave a brief presentation on the volunteer organization that has grown larger than some city humane societies. As they receive no government funding, they rely solely on donations to ensure the health and well-being of the cats that come into their care. No feline is adopted from BFF until they have been altered, are healthy and up-to-date with their vaccines. In addition to ensuring the cats and kittens are well-fed, healthy, and their environment clean, volunteers are credited for creating some of the best socialized felines around. BFF also has established a foster program that allows cats and kittens to reside outside the Rescue temporarily in private homes where they are well looked after and financially supported by BFF. And the main shelter now has a satellite location known as the “Kittenry” that allows expectant Mamas, newborns and young kittens a healthy start away from the sometimes chaotic Rescue.
And to think it all started about a decade ago when a feline family was discovered residing under the back deck of a cottage in Bayfield in a high-traffic area. Since then the number of cats and kittens that have been helped by BFF is staggering – since formal record keeping began in 2023 – 636 have come through the door, with 100 cats in BFF’s care at the start of 2026 alone. They had 117 successful adoptions in 2025. Yet, the work is an endless cycle. If people don’t do their due diligence and have their cats altered, according to the Animal Rescue Professionals Association, just one pair of cats and their offspring can produce 420,000 kittens. Penhale shared at the concert that their volunteers greatest wish is to successfully put themselves out of business by ensuring the feline population in the area is brought under control but this will only happen through education and the financial generosity of people like those who attended the Glee Sisters concert.
The Glee Sisters entertained those gathered by singing some delightful “cat themed” songs including: “Pussywillows and Cattails”, by Gordon Lightfoot; “Memory” from the Musical “Cats” by Andrew Lloyd Webber; and a Lion King Medley, by Elton John. The choir presented their own rendition of “The Cat Came Back” with lyrics by Deb O’Brien (and Mary Peterson), and arranged by Director Lisa Stewart.
A song penned for Bayfield’s Sesquicentennial by village resident Guy Spence (Atlis) made its live performance debut. The audience was notably touched by the Glee Sisters performance of “Bayfield 150: Where the Colors Meet the Shore”.
A highlight of the afternoon was the Glee Sisters’ traditional stretch break. This year it was set to “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” and under the direction of piano accompanist Sharon Johnston the audience not only got in some stretching they also exercised their voices adding background to the Glee Sisters rendition. “A-weema-weh!”
The Glee Sisters Choir is conducted by Stewart, supported by co-director Gail LIttle and pianist Johnston. Greg Csullog acted as technical director for the afternoon.
“BFF would like to extend our most sincere, thank you and gratitude to the Glee sisters Lisa Stewart and Sharon Johnston for an absolutely ‘pawsome’event on Sunday!” concluded Penhale. “They had everyone up on their feet and singing some perfectly picked cat themed songs and it was a lot of fun!”
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
April 19 to 25 was Volunteer Appreciation Week in Canada and there is no better event than the Bayfield Lions Club’s Home and Lifestyle Show to showcase the work that volunteers do in the village and surrounding area to ensure a community filled with vitality.
As the wonderful Home and Lifestyle Show grows, it consumes more ground including some outdoor space where the majority of the volunteer groups could be found amongst the exhibitor overflow this year. The young members of Bayfield Guiding with the support of their parents, grandparents and Owls were there selling cookies and I would like to thank everyone that found them and purchased a box or two. Sales were steady on both days and we’re down to just four cases in our inventory which is most gratifying. Still need to get cookies? Reach out, I can help with that.
We shared space in the tent with folks equally passionate about their volunteer organizations. The Bayfield Garden Club was there taking memberships and selling 1-5-0 garden aprons in support of Huron Hospice. The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association, Bayfield Historical Society, Bayfield Agricultural Society, Photography Club of Bayfield, the Magnetic Moments Campaign and the Bayfield Safety Focus Group were all on hand offering information about their groups and activities and some were also promoting memberships and their fundraising projects. Bayfield Optimist Club members were there with tickets for their upcoming Duck Race in support of youth initiatives – something Bayfield Guiding both benefits from and greatly appreciates as their financial support ensures we can run a successful and varied program for our youngsters.
If prizes were awarded for exhibits, Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines would be the assured winner because on Sunday they had two six week-old kittens named Smudge and Chuck who proved to be great ambassadors for the Rescue. If ever our Sparks, Embers and Guides wandered off from our booth we didn’t have to look far for them.
Outside of the tent the Bayfield International Croquet Club had volunteers showcasing their talent for croquet and encouraging others to try their skill at the sport, while volunteers with the Bayfield Fire Department, part of Bluewater Fire Services, gave four extraction demonstrations to help educate the public on this aspect of their work. And of course volunteers with the Bayfield Area Food Bank greeted visitors at the front doors collecting cash donations and non-perishables in support of food security in the community. And the 1-5-0 Birthday Booth saw individuals volunteering to showcase the many decades of history that this village is so very proud of due in huge part to the volunteers of the past.
And then, of course, there are the Lions Club members themselves who not only worked hard to produce a great show for the many exhibitors they hosted but also the public that came to see, learn and participate. And they were also busy promoting their upcoming Walk for Dog Guides!
Phew! That’s a pretty long list of volunteer groups but I’ve only touched on a few. There are many more groups and people that make Bayfield, and the surrounding area, pretty darn great. Yes, this community truly runs on volunteers! Thank you one and all. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.