The Bayfield BreezeIssue 892 Week 33 Vol 18
August 12, 2026
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BAYFIELD LIONS TO FORWARD GENEROUS DONATION FOR DOG GUIDES
The Bayfield Lions recently accepted a donation for $35,000 for dog guides that they will forward on to the Lions Foundation of Canada in memory of Barbara Kuhn. The donation was made by her husband Wayne Toale with assistance from his niece Lori Nicholson. Lion Tony van Bakel is pictured here accepting the cheque from Toale and Nicholson. The Bayfield Lions Club is most appreciative of the generosity of this family. (Photo by Jack Pal)
As many know, the Bayfield Lions Club hosts an annual walk to raise money for dog guides through the Lions Foundation of Canada, as do many other communities across Canada.
“If you follow our work in this endeavor you may recall that it takes $35,000 to raise enough money to eventually place a dog with a person in need of one of the services they are trained for,” said Lions Club President Karen Scott. “What you may not know, is with larger donations, you may be able to request what type of assistive program your money goes to, suggest names for the pup, have follow up from the school to let you know when a match is being made right up to attending the graduation ceremony in Oakville, ON, where you will see several dogs graduating and being matched with their person. And if the recipient would like to, you may exchange contact information and be kept up to date with their progress.”
This type of donor benefit depends on the amount of the donation received. Scott explained that it is based on a tier system, starting with a $5,000 donation and progressing up to the cost of covering one dog or more.
The Bayfield Lions recently received a very generous donation of $35,000 for dog guides that they will forward on to the Lions Foundation of Canada in memory of Barbara Kuhn, by her husband Wayne Toale with assistance from his niece Lori Nicholson.
“We are so moved to share the news about this donation with our community,” said Scott. “On behalf of our local Lions and the Foundation itself, I cannot adequately express our gratitude for this extremely generous donation.”
The Lions Foundation of Canada supports the training of dogs to act as guides in the areas of diabetes alert, canine vision, mobility issues, seizure response, service for mobility, hearing and autism assistance. The process includes fostering a pup for basic training, further training at the school in Oakville, specialized training in the area they show potential for, training with the prospective recipient, and sending them home together to start their new lives, all with no cost to the person who needs a service dog.
FINISHING TOUCHES UNDERWAY FOR BAYFIELD COMMUNITY FAIR
Homecraft exhibits are to be dropped off at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena on Thursday, Aug. 13 from 7-9 p.m. or on Friday, Aug. 14 from 8:30-11:45 a.m. The only exception to these times is Art and Photography exhibits, which both have a final cutoff time of 10 a.m. on Friday. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
The countdown is on! After months of planning, the Bayfield Community Fair starts this Friday, Aug. 14. This year marks the 170th anniversary of the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) and the Village of Bayfield’s 150th anniversary, so the celebration will be extra special!
Fair organizers are busy putting the finishing touches on Fair events and activities – some old and traditional and some new. The BAS encourages everyone in the community to participate in the Fair as an exhibitor, volunteer, or visitor.
Exhibitors at the Fair are reminded that the exhibit categories and entry requirements can be viewed online in the 2026 Fair Book, which contains all of the information that exhibitors need for their entries.
Entries can also be completed through Online Submission. A print version of the 2026 Fair Book is also available at area libraries, Bayfield Convenience, garden centres, craft/sewing/quilt shops, art shops, and through organizations.
There are two time periods for dropping off exhibits at the Bayfield Community Center and Arena prior to the Fair: Thursday, Aug. 13 from 7-9 p.m. and Friday, Aug. 14 from 8:30-11:45 a.m. With only one exception, all exhibits for inside departments must be received at the Bayfield Arena before 11:45 a.m. on Friday. Please note that for exhibits in the Art and Photography categories, the deadline for drop-off is no later than 10 a.m. on Friday to allow the needed time for setting up the displays.
While there are no guarantees about the weather, visitors are strongly encouraged to be prepared with hats, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. The Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) will be at the Fair again this year providing free filtered water at a booth close to the back door of the arena. Fairgoers are encouraged to bring their own reusable water bottles to fill them with refreshing water. There is also a water refill station in the arena foyer area. A misting station will be located near the arena’s Zamboni door so that visitors can cool off if needed. There will also be a First Aid station on the fairgrounds.
There is never a shortage of food options at the Fair. Food trucks will be available on both Saturday, Aug. 15, from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 16 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Slices of pie and cold drinks will again be available at this year’s Fair giving visitors a chance to sit down and “take a load off” while enjoying a delicious snack. The pie and beverage booth will be located in the arena on Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.
The success of the Fair relies on the contributions of volunteers. Extra volunteers are still needed to help with various activities during the Fair. Volunteer help is always appreciated. High school students needing extra hours to complete their volunteer service requirements for graduation are most welcome. Anyone who is interested in volunteering is asked to visit Volunteer Signup.
For the 2026 Fair Schedule and details, please visit www.BayfieldFair.ca.
“RECIPES & STORIES” WILL LAUNCH AT BAYFIELD FAIR
Earlier in 2026, the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) invited the community to submit their family-favorite recipes and shared memories for a planned commemorative book celebrating the Society’s 170th anniversary this year. The response was overwhelming and heartwarming to say the least. Thank you to all who contributed!
The BAS is proud to introduce the resulting “Recipes & Stories” book, which contains over 130 recipes – many of them handed down through families over generations – along with memories about food shared and the people who prepared it. The book also features a BAS history section, family stories, and a collection of Fair stories.
The BAS gratefully acknowledges a Bayfield 1-5-0 Project grant from the Bayfield Lions Club to help offset the cost of producing the commemorative book.
The “Recipes & Stories” book will be launched at the Bayfield Community Fair starting on Friday, Aug. 14 and continuing throughout the Fair weekend. Copies of the book will be available for sale at the Information Booth in the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena. The cost per copy is $20 with cash, credit card or cheque accepted. The book can also be ordered by sending an email to info@bayfieldfair.ca.
This attractive commemorative book will make the perfect gift for any occasion: birthday, bridal shower, stocking stuffer, housewarming, keepsake, thank you, or just because. The BAS thanks everyone in advance for supporting this fundraiser.
FOOD BANK DONATIONS TO BE COLLECTED ALONG PARADE ROUTE
Volunteers with the Bayfield Area Food Bank encourage people to bring donations to the Bayfield Community Fair Parade on the morning of Aug. 15. This distinctive red pick up truck will be driven along the route so that volunteers can use it to hold the donations they collect. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The Bayfield Community Fair Parade is happening on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 15, bringing the village together for a vibrant celebration of 150 years of village heritage, friendship, and local pride.
Bayfield is a community built on layers of connection – where neighbors celebrate alongside neighbors, and where every local event feels like a reunion. This year’s parade promises all the music, color, and community spirit that make the Bayfield Community Fair weekend one of the highlights of the year.
When people grab their spot along the route to watch the parade which will commence at 11 a.m. they are asked to keep an eye out for the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) red pickup truck.
The BAFB’s friendly team of volunteers will be walking alongside this vehicle during the procession to collect donations and load them right into the back! Spectators won’t even need to leave their spot on the curb. They can just hand their donation to a volunteer as they pass by.
The BAFB volunteers would like to encourage those with family or friends visiting for the fair weekend to please let them know to pack something extra for the food bank, too! Every bit helps, and having visitors join in makes the community impact even stronger.
Because of the current economy, BAFB volunteers know how tough grocery bills are for everyone right now. The food bank shelves are currently half-empty. They invite people to pack a bag of donations to bring along on parade morning!
They are especially low on:
- Protein and Canned Goods such as: canned pasta, dried soup, and meats like tuna, salmon, chicken and ham
- Pantry Staples like flour, cereal, condiments, and baked goods
- Snacks and Drinks: crackers, kid-friendly snacks, and pop
Monetary donations are also highly valued for purchasing high-cost essentials not usually fully stocked by food drives, especially diapers and baby formula, which can quickly drain a family’s budget when times are tough.
Every single bag placed in the red pickup truck will directly lift up a family right here in the village.
And the night before the parade, on Friday, Aug. 14 at 8 p.m. at the fairgrounds, volunteers with the BAFB – Team Food Bank – will be taking part in the Human vs. Tractor Tug of War!
The volunteers have got the spirit, and hopefully the muscle, but they also need the community in the stands to make some noise. Come on out to the fairgrounds on Friday evening and help root for Team Food Bank as they take on the ultimate test of strength!
MRI MACHINE IN GODERICH WILL HELP REDUCE WAIT TIMES
All are invited to come have a “Magnetic Moment at Windmill Lake Farm” in Bayfield on Sunday, Aug. 30th!
This will be a fundraising event for the Magnetic Moments campaign and will run from 1-4 p.m.
The Magnetic Moments campaign was launched in late 2025 to raise $6.5 million to build a new facility for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment at Alexandra Marine & General Hospital (AMGH) in Goderich.
This campaign is taking place across Huron County and Windmill Lake Farm is hosting one of the first Bayfield events to help raise awareness about the importance of the MRI for the community.
According to a recent Ontario Health Report, regional wait times far exceed provincial recommendations: a target time of 28 days for Priority 4 patients, or those with a condition that is non-urgent. In reality, these patients can wait much longer on average for appointments at the closest hospitals with MRI machines. Three hundred and thirty-one days at the London Health Sciences Centre-UH; 71 days at Stratford General Hospital; and 56 days at Brightshores Health System in Owen Sound. An MRI machine located in Goderich will decrease wait times for local patients.
Huron County residents often travel significant distances for an MRI. This can sometimes be under stressful, potentially life-changing circumstances – living with back pain or waiting for cancer testing. Some patients can’t afford to travel these distances, so they go without. The population in Huron County, on average, is older than the rest of the province. In general, this demographic means a greater demand for diagnostic healthcare services. The Magnetic Moments campaign wants to work together to make all this better.
MRIs are important because they offer images with more detail than other diagnostic imaging tests. MRI scans help medical professionals quickly spot fractures or tumors that may be too small to show up on X-Rays or CT Scans.
With approval from the Government of Ontario, Alexandra Marine & General Hospital is aiming to have its MRI machine operational by 2028. The campaign is spearheaded by Dr. Tiffaney Kittmer and a team of dedicated community leaders. To date, the campaign has raised $4,698,574 of $6,500,000, and has been made up of many magnetic moments. Early support for the campaign indicates that the community believes in the value of this cause.
The addition of an MRI machine enlarges the range of services available to AMGH’s patients which allows them to speak with in-house specialists close to home. Advanced imaging equipment also helps the region attract healthcare professionals to the hospital, and ensures AMGH continues to be a leading healthcare provider within the region.
Entry to the event on Aug. 30th at Windmill Lake Farm is free but donations to the Magnetic Moment campaign are appreciated. There will be tours of the Windmill and remarks from medical experts. Food vendors will be on site.
Windmill Lake Farm is located at 35957 Bayfield River Road near Bayfield.
For information, please contact Mary Ann Colihan at tundramac@gmail.com.
AUTHOR’S LATEST NOVEL PARTIALLY SET IN BAYFIELD
Heather Marshall (Submitted photo)
On Saturday, Sept. 26, bestselling author Marshall will take the stage at the Bayfield Town Hall to discuss her latest novel, “Liberty Street”, which is partially set in 1990s Bayfield. Goderich resident Lough will interview the author on her flair for turning fact into fiction.
Marshall has published three novels that, at their core, elevate the disturbing realities that many women faced throughout modern history. Through fictionalized characters, she examines how they may have endured and persevered within repressive social systems. At the event, “Intrigue and Hidden History – Reimagining the Past,” their conversation will touch on Marshall’s recent deep dive into the now-defunct Female Refuges Act, the Mercer Women’s Prison in Toronto in the 1960s, and how she researched and brought historic truths to life within a page-turning, heart-wrenching, rage-inciting novel.
Marshall is a bestselling Canadian author of three gripping historical fiction novels. She worked in politics and communications before turning her attention to her true passion: storytelling. Her work showcases intense research that uncovers the buried and overlooked experiences of women. “Looking for Jane”, her debut novel, about a secret network of women fighting for the right to choose, was an instant bestseller and was translated into 17 languages. “The Secret History of Audrey James” explores resilience, friendship, and sacrifice during WWII. Her latest release, “Liberty Street”, also an instant #1 bestseller in Canada, spending more than five months on the charts, focuses on the real-life 1960s Mercer Women’s Prison – with a riveting dual-narrative shared between an investigative journalist and a detective who calls Bayfield home.
Shannon Lough (Submitted photo)
Lough is a local Goderich resident and a founding member of the Bayfield Writers Series. A former journalist, now head of communications for Ecotrust Canada, an innovative environmental and social well-being charity, Lough has a passion for history, social justice, and using stories to affect positive change. She spends her mornings writing creative fiction and her evenings reading. She first connected with Marshall at the inaugural Bayfield Writers Series event, “The Art of Historical Fiction: When Fact Meets Fiction.” There, Marshall inspired her to take a Summer creative writing workshop at Humber College, which Marshall had taken previously. That week-long workshop lit a fire and has expanded Lough’s knowledge of the industry and what it takes to produce a published work. She looks forward to meeting Marshall again, this time on the town Hall stage, to discuss her craft and approach to historical fiction.
“IMAGES OF BAYFIELD” TO DEBUT THIS SATURDAY
The book village coffee tables have been waiting for is coming – Saturday, Aug. 15. (Submitted photo)
In celebration of Bayfield 1-5-0, 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 worked together to create the heirloom-quality coffee table book, “Images of Bayfield” and the wait for this book’s debut is final over!
The book will be launched following the annual Bayfield Community Fair Parade from 12:30-3 p.m. on Aug. 15 in the Community Room at 1851 Bayfield Landing on Main Street. Anyone who pre-ordered the book, can pick up their copy at this time.
Anyone who isn’t able to pick up their pre-ordered book on Aug. 15, will have the opportunity to do so at the Bayfield Archives on the following dates and times: Aug. 16, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Aug. 18 4-6 p.m.; and Aug. 22, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The books will be available to pick up in the back room at the Archives, please enter using the door to the right of the main entrance.
The books will also be on sale starting Aug. 15 at the Archives as well as at the following Bayfield retailers: Michael’s Pharmasave, Shopbike Coffee Roasters, The Village Bookshop, and The Wharf Coffee Co. This beautiful book sells for $85, well below the industry standard for a book of this quality.
Anyone who has questions is asked to please contact PcoB.book150@gmail.com.
The Bayfield Archives is located at 20 Main Street North while 1851 Bayfield Landing can be found at 21 Main Street North, both in the village.
LITTER OF LOVES OVERLOOKED AT KITENPALOOZA
Victor (Submitted photo)
Not every family of felines that comes into Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has a dramatic tale of woe or a truly unique and engaging story to share but all are hoping that the next chapter written for them ends “happily ever after”.
Such is the case of this litter of kittens that comprise the Adopt a BFF family of the week – Alessia, Victor, Owen, Kane and Evander. According to volunteers with BFF these kittens arrived at the Rescue when they were just two weeks old with their feral Mama. They are all male with the exception of Alessia and as is the case with most kittens socialized at BFF they have all become little loves who now need a home.
They were overlooked at the most recent Kittenpalooza that was held on Aug. 8-9 but hopefully people will make that special connection with each one of them soon!
Anyone who thinks they could provide a good home for Alessia, Victor, Owen, Kane and or Evande or any of the nearly fifty others in need of homes is asked to reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com. Can’t adopt 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.
BFF volunteers are excited to share that Pet Value Goderich raised over $3,400 for the Rescue during their Pet Appreciation Month thanks to the generosity of the Goderich and area community.
“Wow! How amazing! We can’t thank everyone enough for their continued support – without Pet Valu, Cori, Melissa and their amazing staff we could not help the number of cats and kittens that we do,” said Deb Penhale, representing BFF.
CIGARETTE BUTTS AMONG WORST OFFENDERS FOUND DURING LOVE YOUR GREATS DAY
Love Your Greats Day was held on Saturday, Aug. 8 with volunteers cleaning up trash in areas touched by the water. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
Everyone who volunteered to pick up trash on “Love Your Greats” Day is united in the hope that they will find less trash than the year before.
At 10 a.m., on Saturday, Aug. 8, they headed out in teams with garbage pails and trash grabbers to the village locations touched on by water. Teams covered the beaches north and south of the pier, Howard Street Beach, the village, both marinas, the Bayfield River Flats, Highway 21, under the bridge as well as paddlers cleaning up garbage on the water from above and divers cleaning up from below.
Following the clean up, people were encouraged to come back to the Bayfield Marine Store where they organized what was collected so that it can be properly disposed of or recycled or upcycled. Individuals with the Lake Huron Coastal Centre were then tasked with counting up and recording each item collected. That’s right, they counted everything very carefully. Here are the top ten worst offenders they calculated from the 2026 collection day: 268 cigarette butts; 244 food wrappers; 179 plastic pieces; 108 styrofoam pieces; 100 pieces of paper; 94 beverage cans; 87 rigid bottles/jugs; 71 large styrofoam pieces; 50 plastic bottles; and 37 items of clothing or shoes.
Love Your Greats was established in 2015 and they hosted their first Clean-Up of the shoreline, in the water and along the riverbanks the following Summer.
Jen Pate and Shaun Henry, the founders of Love Your Greats, are so grateful to all their amazing community partners for making this day possible for ten plus consecutive years. Their partners include: Shopbike Coffee Roasters, Lake Huron Coastal Centre, Bayfield Marine Store, Bayfield Trails Association, Harbour Lights Marina, Den Juice Co., Bluewater Fitness, Re~Creation Coaching, Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority and the Municipality of Bluewater.
To learn more visit: Love Your Greats Day.
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AG SOCIETY RAFFLE
This is the “Last Call” for Online 50/50 Raffle Fundraiser!
This is the last week to buy tickets on the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) Online 50/50 Raffle Fundraiser. Ticket sales close on Sunday, Aug. 16 at 2 p.m. The raffle pot has continued to grow steadily and it is hoped that the momentum will keep going right up to the final day of sales!
Tickets are available online and can be purchased at any time until the draw closes on Sunday. To buy tickets, click on: Bayfield Ag Society Raffle
Ticket Prices are: 50 for $50, 10 for $20, three for $10, and one for $5.
The draw will take place on Sunday, Aug. 16, at 3 p.m. The winner will be contacted to claim the cash prize.
The online fundraiser is set up so that 50 per cent of the pot goes to the lucky winner; the remaining 50 per cent will be used to enhance youth programming at the Bayfield Community Fair and support grounds improvements at Agricultural Park.
The BAS encourages everyone to participate in this fundraiser. It’s a great opportunity to win some cash and help make a difference!
COMMUNITY CHURCH SERVICE
On Sunday, Aug. 16, the tent in Agricultural Park will resonate with the strumming of ukuleles as the Bayfield Ukulele Society will provide the music for the Bayfield Fair Community Church Service.
Worship will begin at 10 a.m. to celebrate the blessings of the harvest in keeping with the fair theme, “Apple Pies & Harvest Skies”. All are welcome to join the congregations of St. Andrew’s United Church, Knox Presbyterian Church and Trinity St. James Chapel of Ease at this special service.
It is recommended that participants bring their own lawn chair.
BLUE FLAG MOVIE NIGHT
The Municipality of Bluewater is inviting residents and visitors to take part in a free Blue Flag outreach community event. This fun, family-friendly activity is a great way to learn about water safety, the environment, and how individuals can all help protect the Great Lakes.
Bayfield Marina is proud to be a Blue Flag marina, an international recognition for meeting high standards in environmental care, water quality, safety, and education. Through this event, the Municipality hopes to help people learn more about the Blue Flag program while enjoying activities along Bayfield’s beautiful waterfront.
Families are invited to a free outdoor showing of “Moana” at Pioneer Park on Saturday, Aug. 29. The gates will open at 8:15 p.m. and the movie will start at 8:45 p.m. Those who attend should bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a movie by the lake with family and friends.
All are welcome to attend this Blue Flag outreach community event to celebrate Bayfield’s waterfront, learn something new, and enjoy time outdoors.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
On Thursday, Sept. 10, everyone is welcome to attend an evening with Stratford author Anne Milne, whose recent book “I Had a Swell Time” features the diaries of her mother, Bernice Hodgins, when she was a young girl.
Hodgin’s family from Toronto spent summers in Bayfield and Seaforth. She kept the diary starting in 1928, at age 12, and continued until her mid-twenties. Milne will highlight the details her mother captured that relate to Bayfield — cottage activities, evenings watching the sunset, afternoons flirting with boys on the beach, and dances at the popular pavilion at Jowett’s Grove.
Join the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) members for this glimpse into Bayfield’s past starting at 7 p.m. at the TSJ Hall. The event is free for BHS members and $5 at the door for non-members.
Please RSVP to bhsmembers@gmail.com and let organizers know how many will be attending. Milne will have copies of “I Had a Swell Time” for purchase and is happy to sign them. Find out more about the book at ihadaswelltime.ca.
The TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in the village.
BAYFIELD CALENDAR
The cover photo of the 2027 Bayfield Calendar has been revealed and calendars will be available as of Saturday, Aug. 15. (Photo by Linda LeBel)
The Bayfield Lions’ Club is proud to announce the launch of its 2027 Bayfield Calendar on Aug. 14, just in time for the Bayfield Community Fair.
This will be the 17th edition of the calendar and the 15th as a joint project of the Bayfield Lions and the Photography Club of Bayfield (PCoB).
These beautiful calendars would make an ideal Christmas gift or souvenir and can be purchased for $20 from any Lion member as well as from Bayfield’s premiere volunteer salesperson, Justyne Chojnacka. The calendars can also be purchased at The Village Bookshop on Main Street.
BAYFIELD ARTIST GUILD
Members of the Bayfield Artist Guild (BAG) invite people to join them as they continue to celebrate Bayfield’s 150th Birthday with an Art Show and Sale on Saturday, Aug. 15 on the lawn of the “Lighthouse” located at 52 Colina Street in the village.
The Show and Sale will open following the Bayfield Community Fair Parade and run from noon to 3 p.m.
This event will continue to highlight the “We Love Where We Live” theme with art work celebrating the village and the surrounding areas along with many other creative paintings from Bayfield’s talented artists.
In addition, BAG will co-lead a Kids Arts and Crafts Pop Up in conjunction with the Bayfield Community Fair, also on Aug. 15, beginning at noon, in the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena. Children of all ages will be given the opportunity to create, using recycled materials, and an assortment of art supplies. This activity is free and requires adult supervision. Check out the Fair schedule of events by going to bayfieldfair.ca. “Apple Pies & Harvest Skies” Fair Books are also available at the Bayfield Branch Library.
Folks are also encouraged to say, “Hi”, to members of the BAG as they can be found most Wednesdays working on creative projects at Pioneer Park starting at 9:30 a.m.
RATEPAYERS ASSOCATION
The Bayfield Ratepayers Association (BRA) will hold its Annual General Meeting on Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena and all members are welcome to attend.
The meeting will begin at 10 a.m. with candidate for Deputy Mayor, Bill Whetstone and candidate for Bayfield Ward Councilor, Mike DeCorte making presentations and taking questions. Also on the agenda will be important updates on Bedrock Energy and the Bayfield Safety Focus Group.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
BOOK SALE
Friends of Bayfield Library (FOBL) would like to remind all book lovers that they can enjoy the benefits of browsing the Red Cart and Red Table during regular hours at the Bayfield Branch Library as they are now both stocked with titles worth purchasing!
In addition, people are encouraged to mark the final FOBL Summer Book Sale on their calendars. It will be held on Aug. 15.
All proceeds from these book sales support the Bayfield Library and FOBL thanks everyone in advance for their support.
The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street in the village.
BAYFIELD TRAILS
The Bayfield River Valley Trails Association (BRVTA) has a special event upcoming later this month – a guided hike in a neighboring community!
On Saturday, Aug. 22, there will be a guided tour of Hullett Marsh at the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area, east of Clinton. This is a major wetland habitat with a variety of unique flora and fauna. The guide will be Ally Gibson of the Friends of Hullett Marsh. The hike will begin at 11 a.m. Participants are asked to meet at the Main Viewing Stand Parking Lot, located at 40905 Summerhill Road near Clinton.
CROQUET CLUB
The Bayfield International Croquet Club (BICC) held the 2026 BICC Olympics at the end of July. There were 34 competitors in nine events. Competing teams were scored across all nine events with gold, silver and bronze awards based on total point count.
The Olympic Committee included, convenors Leigh and Jerry Selk, Referee and Scorer John Legate, Administrator Arlene Parker along with many volunteers for set up, tear down and Team Leads.
The fantastically fun events included: Count, Crazy Ball, Bowls, Hang Your Balls, Ramps and Maze. Competitors were advised that the rules were not designed around fairness and there was no avenue for appeal.
The games concluded with all competitors enjoying a wonderful meal provided by BICC volunteer hosts.
BICC provides opportunities for recreational, social and competitive play. People are invited to come out and experience croquet on the most beautiful lawns in Canada with a wonderful community of members. For more information please call President Debbie Moulton at 519 636-9329.
ANGLICAN CHAPEL
On Aug. 23, the Trinity St James Chapel will acknowledge the community’s mariner heritage with a special service.
A sing-along will start at 2 p.m. A full communion service will follow and be led by Rev’d Dr. Justin Comber starting at 2:30 p.m.
Following the service all are invited to the TSJ Hall, for a time of fellowship,
Two more special services will follow throughout 2025 and it is the hope of those maintaining this beautiful chapel that members of all denominations will come and join in the spirit of celebration. The dates for these Sunday afternoon services are Oct. 4 and Dec. 6. The services will begin at 2:30 p.m.
To learn more visit: TSJ Hall and Chapel.
UNITED CHURCH
On Sunday, Aug. 23, the members of St. Andrew’s United Church will celebrate their 124th Anniversary! They are delighted to welcome Julia Armstrong, archivist of the Bayfield Historical Society, who will speak on “A Brief History of St. Andrew’s from the Bayfield Historical Society Archives”.
Rev. Sheila Macgregor will lead the worship service beginning at 10 a.m. There will be special music, Kids’ Club during worship, and light refreshments following the service in celebration of the anniversary. All are welcome!
BAYFIELD CENTRE FOR THE ARTS
The Bayfield Centre for the Arts is pleased to share that its Bayfield Sculpture Project is entering its final stages, with installation tentatively planned for early September.
Created to commemorate Bayfield’s 150th anniversary, the sculpture will stand as a lasting legacy celebrating the village’s rich history and strong relationship to Lake Huron.
The project has been made possible through the generosity of donors, volunteers, community partners, and supporters who embraced the vision of creating a permanent work of public art for Bayfield.
Once installed in Clan Gregor Square the sculpture will become a welcoming landmark for residents and visitors alike, inviting reflection on Bayfield’s past while celebrating its future.
The community is warmly invited to attend the official unveiling on Saturday, Sept. 19. This special event will mark the completion of a significant legacy project and offer an opportunity for everyone to gather in celebration of this historic milestone. Details of the unveiling ceremony will be announced in the coming weeks.
The first of its kind in the Municipality of Bluewater, Bayfield Centre for the Arts encourages residents to come out, celebrate this exciting addition to our community, and help mark Bayfield’s sesquicentennial with an artwork that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
BACC SECRETARY NEEDED
The Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) is on the hunt for a new Secretary – and before everyone pictures mountains of paperwork and dusty filing cabinets, don’t worry… it’s much more about keeping the Chamber connected and running smoothly.
As Secretary, this person will help support the day-to-day communication, governance, and member service functions of the BACC. They’ll keep members, board directors, and community partners in the loop, help prepare agendas, organize board meetings and the Annual General Meeting, respond to emails, prepare a monthly newsletter and help the BACC maintain strong relationships with local businesses, municipal partners, and community organizations.
Think of it as being the friendly glue that helps hold the Chamber together without actually getting stuck to anything! There is also a small stipend in compensation.
Applicants need to own a member business or be employed by a current member of the BACC. The secretary is a member of the executive and a voting member of the Board of Directors.
The BACC Board would love to hear from anyone who is organized, enjoys working with great people, and would like to play a meaningful role in supporting the local business community.
Anyone who is Interested or has questions is invited to email villageofbayfield@gmail.com to learn more.
The Bayfield & Area Chamber of Commerce Board would like to thank people in advance for considering the position – they promise the coffee is better than the paperwork!
GARDEN CLUB
The Bayfield Garden Club members are looking forward to a field trip as they plan to tour Young’s Point Flower Farm and Florals on Monday, Aug. 17.
Owner Savannah Freeman grows a variety of annuals and biennials and uses her flowers to make dried flower arrangements. Roses and Dahlias are also prominent.
The Seaforth Horticultural Society will join the Bayfield Garden Club for this tour. Members who wish to carpool can meet at St Andrews United Church, 6 The Square, in Bayfield at 6:30 p.m. Those who attend will have the opportunity to purchase items. In case of inclement weather the tour will be held on Monday, Aug. 24.
Young’s Point Flower Farm and Florals is located at 80143 Sharpes Creek, Clinton.
FAIR CONCERT
The headlining act for the Bayfield Community Fair Concert on Saturday, Aug. 15 will be the “Cory James Mitchell Band” whose speciality is blue collar country. (Submitted photo)
Once again, the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society and the Bayfield Agricultural Society are collaborating to present the Saturday evening concert event during the annual Bayfield Community Fair. On the evening of Aug. 15, they will be celebrating the Fair’s 170th anniversary with Southwestern Ontario’s best country rock.
The headlining act based out of Sarnia, ON, will be the “Cory James Mitchell Band” whose speciality is blue collar country. They bring a unique sound to the Canadian music scene that can’t help but catch folk’s attention. Their music is gritty, genuine and full of emotion, a barebones style of country blues mixed with a life long influence of Detroit’s Motor City and southern style rock ‘n roll. After finding success being named to SiriusXM’s Top of the Country in its inaugural year and playing the main stage at “Boots and Hearts” as the top finalist in the Emerging Artist Showcase, the band has released several successful singles and continues to grow their following. The Cory James Mitchell Band have played to packed crowds at the Canadian National Exhibition, The Kee To Bala, Havelock Jamboree, 2025 Kincardine Canada Day Festival, 2025 Ram Stampede Rodeo Tour; toured across Canada with “Blackberry Smoke” and opened for artists such as “The Reklaws”, Jade Eagleson, “April Wine” and “Big Sugar”.
Graham Bedard, will be a special guest performer, who is a rising Canadian country-rock artist from Exeter, ON. He is known for raw, powerhouse vocals and a captivating stage presence. Honing his craft for nearly 20 years, his sound blends the grit of ‘90s rock and the heart of modern country. Bedard has shared stages with Canadian icons like David Wilcox, Kim Mitchell and “The Washboard Union”. In 2019, Bedard won the Boothill Jamboree Rising Star Award and debuted on SiriusXM’s “Top of the Country” with “The Right Time”. In August 2025, he won the Emerging Artist Showdown at Lucknow’s “Music in the Fields” where he opened for Tenille Townes and Jordan Davis debuting his single, “Worse Than The Whiskey” – named one of the “Top 25 Best Songs of 2025” by CMA Ontario!
Attendees are invited to bring their lawn chairs for music under the stars at Agricultural Park during the Bayfield Community Fair. Tickets are $40 per person and are available now at bayfieldtownhall.com.
HISTORY REVISITED
Thanks to the generosity of Dave and Lynne Gillians and friends, “The Village of Bayfield History: 1876–1985” is hot off the press and available for purchase through the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS).
The contents of this book were first published by the BHS in 1987 in a grey hardcover limited edition. Members of the society and others had been collecting stories about local people, properties, businesses, and societies for a decade, focusing on material dating from the year of incorporation. The reeve of the town, Ed Oddleifson, and a group of volunteers realized the need for a history book and formed a committee to oversee its production.
Since the book is such a rich resource, the Gillians felt that these stories needed to be made available again – and that the 150th anniversary year was the ideal time for such a project. Last Fall they and other volunteers began work to create, on behalf of the BHS, a softcover re-edition of the original.
The book is $25 and all proceeds benefit the BHS. The board of directors wishes to express its deep gratitude to the Gillians and friends for producing this new edition.
To order or arrange onsite purchase/pickup, email bhsmembers@gmail.com.
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.
MAHJONG
Exciting news for players of Mahjong! For the first time ever the group is going to play through the Summer months instead of taking a hiatus from the end of May to early September! Mahjong will continue to 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 1:15 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.
CELEBRATING 170 YEARS
AGRICULTURAL FAIRS STARTED AS COMMUNITY CULTURAL EVENTS
This photo taken in the 1940s at the Bayfield Fair shows cars parked neatly around the perimeter of the fairgrounds. The dress code appears to be “Sunday Best”. (Photo courtesy of Bayfield Historical Society archives; from the Stu Atkinson collection)
In the mid-1800s, the majority of agricultural societies were formed. They became a key element in the agricultural community – assisting in modernizing farming practices, improving the bloodlines of livestock, and making more productive seed available. The annual fair was the cultural event that brought the community together, celebrated excellence through competitions, and identified where the best livestock and crops were grown.
In 1855, 60 people in the Stanley Township area signed a promissory list to form the Stanley Branch Agricultural Society; however, when it was due, only 40 paid the 5-shilling fee. In 1856, a group met to plan and hold the first fair. In 1907, directors decided to rename this organization the Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS).
Those first fairs with people herding their animals and bringing their entries in by horse and wagon must have been exciting times as the harvesting was coming to a close in early October. Fairs were alternately held in Varna and Bayfield to encourage greater participation.
In 1886, the directors felt a permanent fairgrounds location was needed and so a parcel of land was bought fronting on Jane Street in Bayfield. A second section to its south was bought in 189, and later in 1921, another parcel further to the south was bought to make a larger race track and to make the fairgrounds more capable of accommodating all the activities at the fair.
For many years, strong fencing was required to rent the fairgrounds so that cattle or sheep could graze all Summer. Later, with the interest and vision of the Lions Club, it became more park-like for sports to be played. Agricultural Park has been home to a football club, baseball, soccer, skateboarding, basketball, and pickleball among other sports activities.
Competition has been a feature of all fairs. In early years at the Bayfield Fair, there were many classes of cattle, horses, sheep, pigs, and poultry. The inside exhibits included butter (50 pounds), cheese, hand products (including rugs, clothing, wool cloth, and hats), vegetables, farm implements, crop samples, art, and later flowers. Running races, bicycle races, horse races, calf races, and pig races also attracted attention. The horse races were often held near the closing of the fair with those cheering from the grandstand.
Over the years, several buildings were added to accommodate the many sections of the fair. The main show building, also known as the “Crystal Palace”, was near Jane Street. The Lions Club, supported by the Society, had a vision to create an arena. This would provide a home for the indoor exhibits during the fair and a facility that could be used year-round by the community. When this became a reality, the old show building was relocated to the back of the second land parcel and converted into a cattle shed. A second building nearby was used to house animals during the fair and a building used as a poultry shed was moved to the grounds. The second building burned down and the current pavilion became its replacement. In 2019, the office/animal display barn was opened as the most recent structure. Over the years, the old pumping house and the washrooms became Society buildings.
The Lions Club built their storage shed along John Avenue and the Optimist Club put in the cement pad for the use of the community.
The BAS has hosted a fair every year, even through the war years and two pandemics. It has adapted to the times. School fair exhibits were included in the early 1900s, and 4-H clubs were added in the mid-1900s. Today, farm animals are on display in the new animal display barn and agriculture information is displayed for educational purposes. Children’s activity areas can be found throughout the fairgrounds and in the arena. More recent competition sections such as photography and woodworking are included.
The Bayfield Community Fair is the only fair in the area to still have a heavy horse show. Entertainment, both local and from a distance, is added each year to provide experiences that provide memories for all ages.
Early directors saw the need and had the foresight to create an agricultural society. Another set of directors over the span of more than 30 years had the wisdom to look at the needs for the future and purchase and over many years pay for land that is known today as Agricultural Park. Directors over the years have been careful trustees of this green space ensuring that sports, both planned and spontaneous, can be played. Families use the green space for sports and also use the pavilion as a gathering place for family events. Many residents talk of their appreciation of the green space in the centre of the village. As the village grows, the need for green space will only get stronger.
President Doug Yeo said, “To past directors, past conveners, past volunteers, and all visitors, we owe our thanks to you all for creating the foundation of an organization that has now achieved 170 years of being in this community. Thanks also to these people for 170 fairs, which have left countless visitors with lasting memories.”
The 170th iteration of the Bayfield Community Fair will be held at Agricultural Park this weekend from Friday, Aug. 14 to Sunday, Aug. 16. Scroll up for more stories on all the happenings!
COASTAL CONSERVATION YOUTH CORP FIND RECORD NUMBER OF TIRES ON SHORELINE
From July 28-30, ten high school aged volunteers from Goderich, and the surrounding area, participated in beach clean ups, restoration work, and invasive species removal while learning about plastic pollution, shoreline ecology, and coastal processes as part of the Coastal Conservation Youth Corp program. (Submitted photo)
The Coastal Conservation Youth Corp (CCYC) program returned to Goderich for the fifth time this past week, continuing education and stewardship work along the shoreline.
From July 28-30, ten high school aged volunteers from Goderich, and the surrounding area, participated in beach clean ups, restoration work, and invasive species removal while learning about plastic pollution, shoreline ecology, and coastal processes.
The first day of the program involved a beach cleanup at Black’s Point beach, where participants removed just under 20 lbs. of litter. They surprisingly found a record eight tires along the shoreline and were able to safely remove six of them. Many of the youth were astonished by the quantity of litter found in such a small area and expressed feelings of accomplishment knowing they were able to make a difference by clearing out what had washed up or been left behind by others.
The second day of the program involved a trip to the Old Ausable Channel to further some restoration work that was started by this year’s Grand Bend CCYC cohort. Participants helped take care of native plants that had been planted along the channel by removing encroaching invasives and giving them some much needed water. This work really helped to highlight to the youth that restoration work is ongoing and requires continuous efforts.
The final day continued the theme of long-term restoration with a visit to the youth-led restoration site at Sunset Park in Goderich. Started by previous years’ CCYC groups, this site involves the ongoing removal of invasive plant species along the bluff at the park, followed by the planting of native soil stabilizing species to prevent bluff erosion. This year’s participants continued this project and had the opportunity to meet with local community members from the John Hindmarsh Environmental Trust and the Tri-County Master Gardeners.
This program was made possible with support from the McCall MacBain Foundation and the John Hindmarsh Environmental Trust Fund.
CCYC is offered by the Lake Huron Coastal Centre, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the Lake Huron shoreline through education, restoration and research. Learn more at lakehuron.ca and keep in touch on social media using @coastalcentre on Facebook and Instagram.
LEVEL 1 LOW WATER ADVISORY ISSUED FOR AUSABLE RIVER WATERSHED
July was significantly drier than normal across the affected watershed, with only about half of the expected monthly rainfall received. The prolonged period of hot, dry weather resulted in continued declines in streamflow and increasing pressure on local water resources. (Submitted photo)
The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) Water Response Team (WRT) has declared a Level 1 Low Water Advisory for the Ausable River watershed due to below-normal precipitation and declining streamflow conditions.
July was significantly drier than normal across the affected watershed, with only about half of the expected monthly rainfall received. The prolonged period of hot, dry weather resulted in continued declines in streamflow and increasing pressure on local water resources.
Recent rainfall has provided some localized relief but has not been enough to substantially improve overall conditions. Without sustained, above-normal rainfall through August, streamflow levels are expected to remain below seasonal levels and could continue to decline, according to Christie Brown, ABCA Water Resources Technologist.
“While the recent rainfall was certainly welcome and provided a temporary boost to streamflow levels, it was not enough to overcome the ongoing dry conditions,” said Brown. “We need sustained, widespread rainfall to help recharge the watershed and support lasting improvements in streamflow conditions.”
WRT Chair Ray Chartrand said everyone has a role to play in protecting local water resources. As part of a Level 1 Low Water Advisory, the WRT is asking all water users to voluntarily reduce their water use by 10 per cent.
“By working together and taking simple conservation measures, we can help reduce pressure on our streams and groundwater supplies,” he said.
Simple actions, such as reducing lawn watering, watering during the cooler parts of the day, and using rain barrels, can make a meaningful difference. Longer-term measures, such as installing rain gardens and other water-wise landscaping features, can also help improve the watershed’s resilience to dry conditions. For more water conservation tips, visit the web page Water Quality.
The WRT uses precipitation and streamflow indicators to guide Low Water Advisory decisions. Indicators include one-month streamflow and one-month or three-month precipitation. A Level 1 Low Water Advisory calls for a 10 per cent voluntary reduction in water use. A Level 2 Low Water Advisory calls for an additional 10 per cent (total of 20 per cent) voluntary reduction in water use. A Level 3 Low Water Advisory may involve mandatory water use restrictions.
The WRT was formed in 2001 in response to the low water and drought conditions that year and the team has been active ever since. The WRT includes representatives of major water users such as: aggregate industries; agriculture and vegetable growers; and golf and recreation. It also includes local municipal representatives and staff of provincial ministries such as: Natural Resources; Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness; and Environment, Conservation and Parks.
ABCA staff will continue to monitor rainfall and streamflow data and keep the public informed of any changes in watershed conditions. Visit Ontario Low Water for further resources on the Ontario Low Water Program or ABCA Low Water for current low water advisories.
COMPRESSED AIR ENERGY STORAGE PROJECT
On July 30, in Zurich, ON, Bedrock Energy Corp and Capstone Infrastructure Corporation held a Community Information Session with regards to a proposed pioneering, compressed air energy project in Bluewater as a follow up session to ones held in 2023. The companies now have a deadline of November of this year to apply for a permit to proceed with the project.
Two delegations presented to the Municipality of Bluewater Council at their regular council meeting on the evening of Monday, Aug. 10. Tanya Mackie, director of the project for Bedrock Energy Corp and Clarke Trivers, project manager for Capstone Infrastructure Corp spoke with regards to the project while Joanne (Hayter) McCann, a 43-year resident of Bluewater who lives directly across from the proposed compressed air storage facility on Goshen Line spoke on behalf of the concerned citizens in the region who are opposed to the project.
A number of citizens attended this meeting in person with the gallery overflowing into the auditorium at the Stanley Community Centre. Television monitors had been set up so they could view proceedings. The meeting was also livestreamed on Bluewater’s YouTube channel with devices peaking at 114 throughout the two presentations. It was also noted that 24 letters of correspondence with regards to the project from Bluewater residents had been attached to the evening’s agenda.
The delegations were presented for the purpose of information gathering by councilors. The council members were directed by Mayor Paul Klopp to forward any questions to the clerk, Chandra Alexander, to ensure answers would be provided by the pertinent people. The clerk also noted that she would be adding more correspondence to the agenda that comes in prior to the Aug. 11 at noon deadline for their next meeting. Council will be holding a special meeting on Thursday, Aug. 13 starting at 7:30 p.m. for the purpose of discussing this proposed Compressed Air Energy Storage Project. An agenda will be published on the municipality’s website when available.
The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at the Stanley Community Centre located at 38594 Mill Road in Varna and is open to all. Council meetings are also now live streamed on Bluewater’s YouTube Channel for those who have an interest but an inability to attend in person.
Anyone wishing to review the two delegations’ presentations can find them here: Council Meeting – Aug. 10. The agenda for Aug. 10, including the correspondence, can be found here: Council Meeting information.
CLINTON HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
The beautiful sounds of live harp music playing courtesy of the Huron Harp School, now celebrating their 20th year, will once again be a featured part of this year’s Clinton Horticultural Society’s Annual Flower Show!
The date for the show has been set for Friday, Aug. 21 from 2-5 p.m. with the added bonus of a Toonie Cafe offered from 2-4 p.m.
The Show will be held at the Clinton Legion located at 95 Kirk Street. All are welcome to attend.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER
Good Neighbours of Bluewater (GNOB) is gearing up for Fall and has lots of great new ideas to bring to fruition so stay tuned! They will also be embarking on some new partnerships that will help provide something for everyone.
For now, they are focusing on the 59th Annual Zurich Bean Festival and the role they play in the community that weekend. On Saturday, Aug. 22, GNOB will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. as a cooling station. They have an accessible washroom with a baby change table. A variety of cold drinks and chips will be for purchase. Their pop-up shop will have various items for sale including their new cookbook.
All are encouraged to stop by GNOB located at 28 Goshen Street North in Zurich, ON.
HURON COUNTY PRIDE
Anyone who would like to try their hand at drag, or get some pointers from professional drag artists will be interested in joining Huron County Pride at the Livery Theatre in Goderich on Saturday, Aug. 15.
From 4-6 p.m., people are invited to bring their costumes, wigs, makeup, and imagination! Organizers will have limited makeup available for those without any.
Those who take part will get some tips and tricks, throw together their look, stomp the runway, and perform their heart out! All are welcome to attend this free event, but registration is required. To register please visit: DIY – Drag
Later that same evening, starting at 7:30 p.m., people are invited to grab their Bingo dabbers and get ready for an awesome night of fun competition and amazing drag performances. The Livery Theatre will also be the location for “Huron County Pride Drag Bingo” and the doors will open at 7 p.m. This age of majority event (19+) will be hosted by some amazing drag friends from Affair Entertainment, and will feature a cash bar and cash prizes! The cost for the evening is $35.
Tickets can be purchased by visiting: Drag Bingo Night. Be there or B(12) square!
The Livery Theatre is located at 35 South Street in Goderich.
BETTER TOGETHER GALA
The Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre (HCFBDC), the recipient of Second Harvest’s 2026 Ontario Front Line Impact Award for Food Rescue, invites the community to its annual “Better Together Gala” on Wednesday, Aug. 19, at the South Huron Recreation Centre in Exeter.
The doors will open at 5 p.m. The evening will feature a catered meal by Pineridge Barbecue Co., the Great Canadian Dueling Pianos, a cash bar, and both a silent and live auction and raffle tables.
HCFBDC has had a record-breaking year. The organization generated $4.7 million in total revenue over the past twelve months, a figure driven largely by the volume of rescued food it sources, sorts, and redistributes to communities in need across Huron and Perth counties and surrounding area. Operating its own fleet of trucks, HCFBDC delivers food to over 40 partner agencies, 36 schools, and six remote rural villages through its Mobile Food Bank program, reaching communities where the nearest grocery store can be more than 30 km away.
The Second Harvest Front Line Impact Award recognized HCFBDC’s vertically integrated approach to food rescue: the organization manages the full chain from sourcing through quality sorting through direct delivery, a model that has allowed it to scale rapidly while maintaining reliability for the agencies and families it serves.
“The demand for food security support across Southwestern Ontario continues to grow, and this gala is both a celebration of what we have accomplished together and an opportunity to ensure we can keep pace with that need,” said Executive Director of HCFBDC, Chris Allan.
Tickets are $100 per person. Tables of eight are available for $800. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For tickets or sponsorship inquiries, please contact the HCFBDC office at 519 913-2362.
The South Huron Recreation Centre is located at 94 Victoria Street East in Exeter.
HPPH SURVEY
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is seeking input on its sexual health clinic services. Residents of Huron and Perth counties are invited to share their feedback through an online survey that opened on July 13.
Any Huron or Perth County resident may complete the survey, whether or not they have ever attended an HPPH sexual health clinic.
“We want to hear from community members about what is working well and where there may be opportunities to improve,” said Reba Oldridge, public health promoter at HPPH. “Feedback from both clients and non-clients will help us better understand residents’ experiences, identify potential barriers to access, and improve sexual health services for residents across Huron and Perth.”
The anonymous and confidential survey takes five to 10 minutes to complete. Participants will have the option to enter a draw for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards.
The survey can be accessed directly here: Sexual Health Clinic Services, or through a link on the sexual health clinics webpage, www.hpph.ca/sexualhealth. It will be open through the Summer.
HPPH sexual health clinics are located in Clinton, Exeter, Goderich, Listowel, and Stratford. Clinics offer confidential and inclusive services, including testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, low-cost birth control, pregnancy testing and options counselling, emergency contraception, cervical screening, and referrals to other health services.
SUMMER BADMINTON
Looking for a fun way to get active this summer? Varna Summer Badminton has begun and is taking place every Tuesday evening from now until Aug. 25.
Everyone is welcome, including drop-ins, for this one hour activity that will start at 7 p.m.
There is no weekly commitment required. People can come out when they can, bring their running shoes, and enjoy a casual round of badminton with others in the community.
The cost is $5 per person, per session. All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver. Minors must have a parent or guardian sign before participating.
Whether experienced, rusty, or just wanting to try something new, all are welcome to come out and play.
Varna Summer Badminton takes place at the Stanley Community Centre which is located at 38594 Mill Road, Varna.
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.
The 170th Bayfield Community Fair is happening this weekend, Aug. 14-16, and many people will receive “ribbons” for their exhibits from agricultural to homecraft so it is for this reason that in this week’s issue we highlight a unique ribbon found among the Museum artifacts…
PRIZE RIBBON
This is a blue prize ribbon with a floret top with a metal centre button. The white button has an image of a horse head in the centre. There are two ribbons hanging from the centre button with one ribbon longer than the other. On the longer ribbon in gold printing are the words: “GREAT NORTHERN EXHIBITION COLLINGWOOD”. On the shorter ribbon in gold printing is the word: “SECOND”. The bottom of the ribbons are edged in gold and zigzagged.
James H. Currie achieved this ribbon, among others in the Museum’s collection. He was a World War I veteran and a farmer who lived near Wingham, ON, beside the homestead of George Agnew Reid, the artist. He raised Standardbred horses for a hobby and showed them at many fairs and horse shows.
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Prize ribbon
BAYFIELD YACHT CLUB
GREAT DAY OF SAILING FROM BAYFIELD TO GODERICH AND BACK
STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
Saturday, Aug. 8 proved to be a great day for sailing and so 17 boats took part in the 49th Annual William Given Memorial Race organized by members of the Bayfield Yacht Club.
The race began just off Bayfield shortly after 10 a.m. Sailing teams put their skills to the test for the approximately 22 nautical mile race that runs from Bayfield up to Goderich and back.
There were three race categories: Spinnaker Fleet, Jib & Main Fleet and Nonsuch Fleet.
In the Spinnaker Fleet category, the top three teams and their finishing times were: first, Stornoway J27, Dougald McKillop, 03:59:49; second, Fantastic M242, Munro/Jones; 04:17:49; and third, Rascal J24, Steid/Bondy/Kurn, 04:24:57.
In the Jib & Main Fleet category, the top three teams and their finishing times were: first, Nautilus Beneteau 35, John Luttmer, 04:48:38; second, Moondance Hunter Legend 37.5. Brad Campbell, 04:59:00; and third, Wascally Wabbit Tanzer 7.5, James Armstrong, 05:41:39.
And in the Nonsuch Fleet category, the top three teams and their finishing times were: first, Largo NS30, Rod Glover & Nina Barlow, 04:41:10; second, Canatara NS36, Rob Collie and Bill Kroes, 04:38:07; and third, Six Pence NS 30, Jim and Sue Leder, 04:49:11.
At the post-race social the crew on Stornoway J27 were presented with the William Given Memorial Race Trophy.
Event organizers would like to thank the numerous Bayfield and area merchants that gave prizes for the race helping ensure a successful day!
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
We started the Bayfield Breeze in July of 2009. In those 17 years both our issue size and our coverage area has increased along with our subscriber list. As of this writing we will have sent out 892 weekly issues. Many of our subscribers have been with us since the beginning and are ready and waiting for our online newspaper to come into their inbox at 9 a.m. on Wednesdays. We are truly grateful and appreciative of their ongoing desire to open and click but there is always room to grow.
At the start of the Summer we decided to take advantage of a service that the company we use for sending out our mass emails had begun offering. This pertained to those subscribers that might not always open and click when the publication arrives on Wednesday. We totally understand, we all get busy and our inbox too can sometimes become overwhelming. This new feature allows us to send out a reminder email on Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. to encourage those who have missed a peruse of the issue between Wednesday and Saturday to open it. And we’re happy to report that this new approach seems to be working with about 20 per cent more folks checking out the news we have to share after the reminder is sent!
So whether you read the Bayfield Breeze first thing on Wednesday, on a slow, lazy Saturday morning or sometime in between, may we offer a heartfelt thank you for being a valuable part of keeping our community connected. – Melody
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.