The Bayfield BreezeIssue 896 Week 37 Vol 18
September 9, 2026
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MAIN STREET MEETS THE WORLD THROUGH VIRTUAL HIGH SCHOOL
The reconstruction project on the former Martha Ritz House began in Feb. 2011. The staff of the Virtual High School were able to move in to their home one year later. The official grand opening of the building was held on June 1st, 2012. (Submitted photo)
For the thousands of visitors who stroll along Bayfield’s Main Street each Summer, the historic building that houses Virtual High School (VHS) is just another charming part of the village. Few realize that inside its walls is a school serving students from across Canada and around the world.
This year, VHS is celebrating its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter century of helping students earn Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) credits. Long before ZOOM classes and learning apps became part of everyday life, VHS was proving that a classroom didn’t need four walls.
The story begins in 1995 with local educator Stephen Baker. After his request for new Grade 11 Biology textbooks was denied, he decided to create his own online course instead. Working alongside his students, he built the course using HTML and hosted it on a server in the back room of a jewellery store in nearby Clinton, ON.
What began as one teacher’s creative solution to a classroom challenge laid the foundation for what would become VHS.
Six years later, that vision became a reality when Virtual High School was granted authority by the Ontario Ministry of Education to issue Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) credits. This milestone marked the beginning of Ontario’s oldest online high school and the 25-year legacy the school celebrates today.
In 2011, VHS found its permanent home on Bayfield’s Main Street, breathing new life into the historic Ritz Hotel. For founder and principal Baker, the move was about much more than restoring a building.
“It gave us a home, and having a home is so important,” he said.
Today, students from across Canada and around the world earn Ontario high school credits through VHS, guided by certified Ontario teachers and supported by dedicated academic and administrative teams based in Bayfield. While its reach has expanded far beyond Huron County, the school has never lost sight of where its story began.
For 25 years, VHS has been proud to be part of the Bayfield community. Staff volunteer with local organizations, support community initiatives, and continue to prove that a small lakeside village can have a global impact.
Reflecting on the school’s quarter-century journey, Baker remains passionate about the mission.
“I don’t think there’s a better occupation than education,” Baker said. “It’s a wonderful way of giving back to society and helping people.”
The technology has changed, the community has grown, but the spirit of curiosity, innovation, and community that inspired the school’s beginnings remains at the heart of VHS today.
To learn more about the school and its history, visit vhs.com.
STORM AFTERMATH LEADS TO EVACUATION OF APARTMENT BUILDING
STORY AND PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
During a storm that blew through the village on the late afternoon of Sept. 2nd, a portion of a tree located behind the Clan Gregor Square Apartments came down. Unfortunately, some of its branches landed on the adjacent apartment complex forcing residents of the 17 unit building to evacuate. It appeared that two apartments took the brunt of the hit and there is concern over roof and structure damage. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
The severe storm that blew through the region late in the afternoon on Wednesday, Sept. 2nd that left thousands in parts of Huron County without power for days also left its mark on the Village of Bayfield.
Although it has been reported that the power in the village was restored by end of day, some of the trees in the community fell to the high winds including a few at the Bluewater Golf Course that only one week prior lost its clubhouse to a devastating fire.
One grand dame in Clan Gregor Square was split during the storm causing some damage to neighboring trees as it came down. A portion of another old giant located behind the Clan Gregor Square Apartments came down as well. Unfortunately, some of its branches landed on the adjacent apartment complex forcing residents of the 17 unit building to evacuate. The residents were given one hour to vacate and if they didn’t have family nearby they found accommodation in and north of Goderich at hotels.
Margie Roelens, a tenant of the building, explained that she was laying down when the section of the approximately 200 year-old tree struck the building. She explained it appeared that two apartments took the brunt of the hit and there is concern over roof and structure damage. Roelens shared that on Sept. 8 residents were allowed to return to their apartments for 30 minutes to retrieve more belongings. She had been told that tenants won’t be allowed to return to their homes for at least two more days (as of Sept. 8) if a structural inspection gives the green light to do so. She also speculated that there would be a great deal of work ahead on the two apartments that sustained the most damage from the tree.
SEPTEMBER HIKING OPPORTUNITIES REVEALED
September brings cooler weather and the beginning of the Fall colors. It is a perfect time to get out and go for a hike along one of the beautiful trails in Bayfield and the surrounding area.
There will be two guided hikes hosted by the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) this month as well as the annual Terry Fox Run.
On Sept. 12, there will be a guided tour of the Hullett Marsh at the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area, east of Clinton. This tour has been rescheduled from the original August date. The Hullett Marsh is a major wetland habitat with a variety of unique flora and fauna. Our 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, 40905 Summerhill Road, Clinton, ON.
The Annual Terry Fox Run in support of cancer research will take place on Sunday, Sept. 20. Registration will be held from 9-10 a.m. The meeting point is the gazebo at Clan Gregor Square. For more details and on-line registration, go to Bayfield Terry Fox Run 2026.
On Saturday, September 26 at 1 p.m. there will be a nature walk at the Varna Trails, 38594 Mill Road in Varna, ON. These two trails offer a 1 km option on the Taylor Trail and a 2.5 km more challenging route on Mavis’ Trail. Participants are asked to meet at the end of the parking lot at the Stanley Community Centre.
The hike schedule can change so stay up to date through the Bayfield Breeze or the BRVTA website.
For more information on any of the guided hikes, please contact Ralph Blasting at 519525-3205 or rjblastingjr@gmail.com.
CULTURAL STORYTELLING THROUGH MUSIC COMMON THREAD OF FALL CONCERT SERIES
Musical storytellers will play Fall concerts at the Bayfield Town Hall as two compelling singer/songwriters who draw inspiration from Yoruba and Mohawk cultures will bring their music to the stage.
On Saturday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m., award-winning artist Kunlé will be the featured performer. A Nigerian-born, Toronto-based singer, composer, and multi-instrumentalist, his work draws from Yoruba storytelling, folk traditions and global music. His songs feature a powerful interplay between vocals, talking drums, and fingerstyle guitar – brought to life through dynamic performances.
Supported by a top-notch, five-piece ensemble, Kunlé’s Town Hall concert will feature material from his June 2026 release “The Journey” – a masterful sophomore album that seamlessly fuses West African folk storytelling with soul, roots, and contemporary guitar work. Moving seamlessly between Yoruba, Pidgin, and English, his songs balance cultural depth with a soulful, contemporary sensibility.
Accomplished in music and theatre, Kunlé’s stage credits include a 2024 Dora Mavor Moore Award for outstanding production, a nomination for outstanding sound design and composition for Soulpepper Theatre’s “Three Sisters”, and a 2022 Premier’s Awards nomination for music director, composer and performer in Stratford Festival’s “Death and the King’s Horseman”.
The following month, Nov. 7, also at 7 p.m. Logan Staats will perform on the Town Hall stage. Staats hails from Six Nations of the Grand River, and has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s cultural tastemakers, a land defender and one of this country’s premiere storytellers. He pairs gritty and compelling songwriting with raw, authentic and high energy performances that electrify audiences. Weaving his way through folk, rock, roots and Americana music, Staats’ powerful voice has become a fan favorite across Canada and around the world.
Recent highlights include performing for 18,000 fans at the Los Angeles Forum for ”Life is a Carnival: A Musical Celebration of Robbie Robertson”, along with Eric Clapton, Mavis Staples and Van Morrison. Staats was also interviewed for the accompanying documentary, directed by Martin Scorcese. Other recent performances include the Juno Awards, Massey Hall, Mariposa Folk Festival, Calgary Stampede, CBC Music Festival and the Canadian National Exhibition.
Tickets for both performances are available at bayfieldtownhall.com.
The Bayfield Town Hall Fall Concert Series acknowledges funding support from the Ontario Arts Council and the Government of Ontario. The concerts are sponsored by 1851 Bayfield Landing.
RETURN VISIT BY AUTHOR WILL FEATURE THIRD NOVEL
Heather Marshall (Submitted photo)
Author Heather Marshall will join three of Canada’s top-selling authors for the Bayfield Writers Series latest event, “Chapter Three: Intrigue and Hidden History – Reimagining the Past”, at the Bayfield Town Hall on Sept. 25-26. Marshall will discuss her latest novel, Liberty Street, which is partially set in Bayfield.
Marshall is a bestselling Canadian author of three gripping historical fiction novels. She worked in politics and communications before turning 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 translated into 17 languages. “The Secret History of Audrey James” explores resilience, friendship, love and sacrifice during WWII.
Her latest release, “Liberty Street”, also an instant bestseller in Canada, spent more than five months on the charts. Marshall delivers a riveting dual-timeline narrative, shared between an investigative journalist and a detective who calls Bayfield home. The historic village of Bayfield and the breathtaking shores of Huron Country feature prominently throughout the book.
Through fictionalized characters, she examines how women may have endured and persevered within repressive social systems. At the event on Saturday, Sept. 26, the conversation with Marshall will touch on the author’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.
During a recent interview with Ede Brecevic of the Clinton News Record, Marshall said she wants to raise awareness of “historic injustices” and hopes to inspire readers to learn more, specifically about women’s history that was once buried.
Intrigue and Hidden History will mark Marshall’s second event with the Bayfield Writers Series. When Brecevic asked about her return to the series, Marshall credited the dedication of the community.
“I think the Bayfield Writers Series is a great initiative. They’re such a literary bunch. They saw a gap in the area, and the locals are so invested. They said, even though this is a small town, we can do this and I love that ambition,” Marshall said.
VILLAGE TERRY FOX RUN TAKES FORM OF ORGANIZED HIKE
“Nobody is ever going to call me a quitter.” – Terry Fox
The Annual Terry Fox Run in support of cancer research will take place on Sunday, Sept. 20. (Photo by Jack Pal)
At 18 years old Terry Fox was diagnosed with cancer and lost his leg. Two years later Fox started training to run across Canada. In 1980 he started his “Marathon of Hope”, raising funds and hoping for a cure for all cancers.
Fox ran over 5,000 kilometers – covering six provinces – to raise funds and share his message. Unfortunately, his health deteriorated, forcing him to abandon the Marathon. People all across Canada have since run every year in memory of Fox; over 850 million dollars has been raised for cancer research.
Individuals can run, walk or bike and raise funds to keep Fox’s dream alive.
Bayfield has raised over $82,000 through Terry Fox Runs, and for this support organizers are truly very grateful. Sunday, Sept. 20 is the date for the 2026 event. A guided group will be leaving from the Clan Gregor Square gazebo at 10 a.m. to walk a 3 km route. Anyone who would prefer to run, bike or roller blade, should feel free to choose their own route and time. People may register online as an individual, family or team and start collecting pledges. The process is extremely simple; visit Bayfield Terry Fox Run to register at the Bayfield site. Donations can be made on the same site; people can sponsor a registrant or make a general donation. They can also scan the QR Codes on all signs posted in town, enabling them to make a donation through their phone.
Those who prefer to donate to the Terry Fox Foundation by cash or cheque are invited to meet the organizers on Sept. 20 between 9-10 a.m. at the gazebo. Organizers will be selling the 2026 Terry Fox T-shirts at $25 each and have 2026 participation seals available. Also, those interested can take a selfie during this time in front of a large Terry Fox poster!
The Bayfield Terry Fox Run is organized by volunteers of the Bayfield River Valley Trail Association. If you have any questions, please email info@bayfieldtrails.com. For further information regarding the Terry Fox Foundation, please visit www.terryfox.org.
FUNDS NEEDED TO SUPPORT VETTING FOR MORE THAN SIX DOZEN FELINES
Eve and Sage (Submitted photo)
The volunteers at Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) had a very busy weekend. They hosted their third Kittenpalooza of the season on Sept. 5-6 which resulted in 14 adoptions!
The Adopt a BFF cats of the week are two bonded Mamas that were also busy on the weekend showing off their wee broods in hopes that their kittens would be among the lucky ones that found their forever families.
“These two beautiful Tortoiseshell cats are named Sage and Eve. They are not related and came in at different times, but they have bonded perhaps because they are both young Mamas with litters to raise although they’re barely more than babies themselves,” explained Deb Penhale, representing BFF.
According to Penhale, Sage and Eve were originally kept in separate kennels with their kittens, these babies have grown and some have been adopted and now these two Mamas refuse to be separated from one another.
“These girls are both fairly timid and aren’t completely comfortable with being petted yet, however, they will remain calm and accept treats from our patient volunteers,” Penhale said. “They will need to be spayed and have a little more time being socialized before they will be ready to be adopted, however, having people spend time with them will certainly quicken the socialization process.”
Although 14 kittens were adopted over the weekend it is a very small win for the Rescue as they currently have 76 cats and kittens in need of vetting.
“We have 56 spay neuter appointments booked for this month starting with 10 tomorrow (Sept. 10). It is certainly a financial stretch to get this many cats done in a month, but as we were beyond fortunate to be able to get these appointments, we are going to forge ahead and do whatever we can to get these kitties through their appointments so they can head off to their forever homes,” said Penhale.
Donations to help cover the cost of these vet appointments would be most appreciated by BFF. The Rescue is also currently in desperate need of some new volunteers as some of their dedicated team are now retiring.
Penhale is ever so grateful to two of BFF’s beyond dedicated volunteers who organized all three of this Summer’s Kittenpaloozas.
“A huge thank you to Mary Pounder and her husband David Latour for hosting these events. I don’t think people understand the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to plan one of these. They have to gather all the kittens and Mamas together as some are in foster care. David also designed all the posters which were certainly eye-catching and drew many, many people to the event while Mary organizes and prepares materials bearing photos of all the kitties so visitors can understand which feline is which. These documents also offer the ages as well as offer some backstory on each kitten. In addition, the couple supplied refreshments to the volunteers who also enjoyed relaxing in their beautiful gardens between visitors.”
Anyone who would be interested in volunteering, making a donation toward vetting, or adopting Sage and Eve, or others, is asked to please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com. Monetary donations can be made via E-transfer or mailed 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.
BAYFIELD AREA FOOD BANK CHARITY OF CHOICE
A short presentation ceremony took place at the Bayfield Fire Hall on Tuesday, Sept. 1st. The Bayfield Firefighters, first-place winners of the “Man versus Tractor” event held at the 2026 Bayfield Community Fair, presented their $200 charitable donation cheque to the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB). The Bayfield Firefighters team selected the BAFB as their charity to receive their winnings. The Bayfield Agricultural Society gratefully acknowledges the charitable donations made by Tuckersmith Communications Co-operative as the first, second, and third place winnings in this very successful event. Taking part in the presentation were from l-r: BAFB representatives Joe Gray and Jayne Dietrich who accepted the cheque from Captain Don Knox, Damon Holmes, and Julian Bolinger, who were members of the Bayfield Firefighters first-place winning team. Absent for the photo was firefighter Dennis Roy. (Photo by Janet Vogelsang)
BAFB AND OPTIMIST RAFFLE
The Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB) and the Bayfield Optimist Club are excited to announce their joint “Bayfield 1-5-0” online 50/50 fundraiser!
The Bayfield Optimist Club supports children and youth in the community by providing activities and adventures that are fun, educational and community building while the BAFB supports members of the community dealing with food insecurity. Funds raised from this raffle will support both organizations.
Tickets are on sale now until Friday, Nov. 20. The draw will be made on Saturday, Nov. 21 at noon at 2 Jane Street in Bayfield. The winner will be contacted to claim their prize.
To purchase raffle tickets please visit: BAFB and Optimist Raffle.
RAFFLE WINNER ANNOUNCED
Paul Spittal (left) was presented with a cheque for his winnings on Tuesday, Sept. 1st by Doug Yeo (right), president of the Bayfield Agricultural Society. (Photo by Jentje Steenbeek)
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) hosted its first-ever 50/50 online raffle fundraiser this year. With a flurry of last-minute raffle ticket purchases, this ended up being a great success!
Sales of the tickets closed on Sunday, Aug.16 and the winning ticket was drawn at 3 p.m. on the same day.
Congratulations to the winning ticket holder – Paul Spittal of Bayfield!
The 50/50 draw raised $3,465 with $1,732 going to the lucky winner. The remainder will be used to enhance youth programming at the Bayfield Community Fair and support ground improvements at Agricultural Park.
The BAS offers special thanks to everyone who purchased a raffle ticket and supported this great cause!
BAYFIELD GUIDING
As the calendar turns to September, it is time to start thinking about getting back to Guiding.
Bayfield Guiding will be hosting a special “Passport to Guiding Night” for families on Wednesday, Sept. 16. This special evening will be for all age levels from Sparks (5-6 years) to Rangers (15-17 years) who have registered with the local units through girlguides.ca.
The Bayfield Guiding roster grows quickly at this time of year and so anyone who thinks they might like to join in the fun, now is the time to register. Some spots are still available at all levels: Sparks, Embers (7-8 years), Guides (9-11 years), Pathfinders (12-14 years) and Rangers.
The volunteers with Bayfield Guiding are looking forward to meeting their newest members and seeing returning friends! All the pertinent details about registration fees, meeting times and location can be found on the national website.
LEGO CLUB
It’s a busy week with youth heading back to school but don’t forget that “brickfuls” of fun will be waiting for those who attend Bayfield Lego Club on Saturday, Sept. 12. (Submitted photo)
On Saturday, Sept. 12, the Bayfield Lego Club will gather to get creative with bricks and all are welcome to join in the fun.
This free activity, thanks to the sponsorship of the Optimist Club of Bayfield, will take place from 10-11:30 a.m. in the TSJ Hall.
Bayfield Lego Club is open to children two years and up, accompanied by an adult, as the club also has some bigger blocks in the collection so younger kids can build too! And for those who attend regularly there is also now an opportunity to earn free Lego to take home!
TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.
JOURNEY FOR HOPE
Community members are invited to join the congregation of Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield as participants walk, cycle, sing or do other activities they enjoy to raise money for the vital work of Presbyterian World Service and Development (PWSD) around the globe on Saturday, Sept. 26.
According to the PWSD website, the world is currently experiencing a food crisis triggered by climate change and it’s only getting worse. This year, local organizers hope to raise at least $1,000 for PWSD’s food security projects around the world.
Knox, Bayfield members will host this annual event and are inviting people from the local community to participate. They will gather at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Walking, cycling, singing and other indoor activities will take place for one hour starting at 11 a.m. A light lunch will be enjoyed for 30 minutes starting at noon.
A sign up sheet and a pledge form for “Journey for Hope 2026” will be available in the sanctuary and in the church hall for pledges. Participants, and others, may make a financial pledge using PWSD offering envelopes at Knox, Bayfield or donate online on the “Knox Rocks” team page on the PWSD website werespond.ca.
Anyone who would like to participate and/or pledge their support is asked to please contact Rev. John Bannerman at Knox, Bayfield by calling 226 919-9180 or emailing bannerman@sympatico.ca. Please reach out to the minister with any questions about “Journey for Hope 2026”.
Knox Presbyterian Church is located at 2 Main Street North in Bayfield.
BLUEWATER CANDIDATES FORUM
A Bluewater Candidates Question and Answer Forum will be held at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena on Saturday, Sept. 19.
Starting at 10 a.m., Bluewater voters are encouraged to come out and learn more about the candidates running for local Ward Councilor and Mayor of Bluewater.
The Forum, sponsored by the Bayfield Ratepayers Association (BRA) and the Bluewater Shoreline Residents Association, (BSRA) is an opportunity to ask candidates where they stand on issues important to the community, the future of Bayfield and the Municipality.
Questions might include: development while protecting Bayfield’s inherent charm and small town character; protecting heritage and the role and authority of the Heritage Committee; update and status of a Bayfield Community Centre renovation; Hwy 21 traffic safety and OPP enforcement; maintaining the Short Term Rental by-law; a possible future return of the Bedrock Energy proposal; candidate communication process with residents and a response time pledge; development-charge reductions and their impact on municipal finances; and secondary plan recommendations that each candidate supports.
All are encouraged to bring their questions, hear directly from the candidates, and become an informed voter.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
TAOIST TAI CHI
Taoist Tai Chi® arts Open House will be held on Monday, Sept. 21.
The Open House will begin at 1:30 p.m. and Introductory sessions (1:30-3 p.m.) will begin Sept. 28 at the Bayfield Community Centre and Arena.
Taoist Tai Chi® arts grew from the Taoist tradition, which teaches that health comes when the body, mind and spirit are one. Working on all aspects of the person, this moving meditation reduces stress and helps us find energy, balance and joy.
For more information, visit www.taoist.org or contact the Stratford Branch via email stratford@taoist.org or call 519 273-5614.
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena is located at 4 Jane Street in the village.
BLUE BAYFIELD
The majestic White Spruce is a Canadian legacy. It survived the glaciers thousands of years ago. It has been used for many things such as building houses, musical instruments, wind breaks and Christmas trees. It may grow 25 metres tall in a conical shape.
A White Spruce can often be seen on many properties as a specimen tree. It prefers the sun and is quite salt tolerant. People can add this wonderful Canadian tree to their landscape to celebrate Bayfield’s 1-5-0.
Members of Blue Bayfield will be giving away White Spruce seedlings on Saturday, Sept. 12 from 1-4 p.m. at the Bayfield Branch Library due to the generosity of the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority.
There will also be 10 of each of the following native plant species: Black-eyed Susan, Butterfly Milkweed, Virginia Mountain Mint, Wild Bergamot, and Wild Geranium.
The Bayfield Library is located at 18 Bayfield Main Street North in the village.
GARDEN CLUB
The final garden tour of the Bayfield Garden Club season will be held on Sept. 14.
Starting at 6:30 p.m.,members and guests will begin at one of Bayfield’s oldest heritage homes, Fairlawn located at 35 Main Street North in the village. From these old established gardens and water features to the newer pollinating gardens, her gardens will be a delight to all who visit.
But wait…there’s more! Those who attend will then go a few feet further down the street to tour the Pioneer Park extension. Their host at this location will be Alex Shevchuk, who will talk about the donation of this land and the species growing in it.
And, perhaps if the weather cooperates participants will enjoy a sunset view following the tours.
PILATES
The Bayfield Community Centre and Arena invites people to try Pilates for all levels, from beginners to experienced enthusiasts starting in September.
“Pilates with Props” will be held on Mondays for six weeks starting on Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m.
This class will provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the transformative benefits of Pilates with Props – a dynamic, full‑body workout designed to elevate both physical and mental well‑being. Using hand‑held weights and a small Pilates ball, this class helps individuals deepen their practice, build strength, and explore new movement challenges. Suitable for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike, each session can be tailored to an individual’s needs and abilities. People are invited to join the class to enhance overall fitness, boost energy, and cultivate a grounded sense of calm and well‑being.
“Foam Roller and Pilates with Props” will be held on Thursdays for seven weeks, starting on Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday evening’s Foam Roller Pilates class will offer a dynamic, invigorating workout for anyone looking to elevate their fitness routine. This session blends key Pilates principles with the foam roller, a small Pilates ball, and resistance bands to support mobility, build balanced strength, and release tension throughout the body. Participants will work to improve muscle function, enhance stability, and enjoy the added benefit of a rejuvenating massage‑like experience that will leave them feeling refreshed and restored.
Jump into the fun! Anyone interested in joining is asked to register online at www.thewellnesspotion.com.
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.
RENTAL COORDINATOR WANTED
The Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society is looking for a Rental Coordinator to join their team.
The Rental Coordinator is the main point of contact for people interested in renting the Town Hall for weddings, meetings, celebrations and other functions.
Responsibilities include: responding to phone and email inquiries from prospective renters; providing tours of the Town Hall; completing rental contracts and related paperwork; coordinating event dates, table set up and A/V requirements with the Operations Manage helping ensure renters have the information and support they need leading up to their event.
The position requires good communication and organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to work independently. Some flexibility in scheduling is important, as tours and event-related needs may occasionally take place outside regular business hours.
This is a part-time position with hours varying seasonally. The position generally involves approximately eight to 12 hours per month during the Spring, Summer and Fall.
Anyone who is organized, personable and would enjoy helping people plan their special events at one of Bayfield’s landmark community spaces is asked to please send their resume and a brief note outlining their interest in the position to Don Schafheitlin via email to dschaf@globalserve.net.
IMAGES OF BAYFIELD
The book village coffee tables have been waiting is now available for purchase. (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 is finally over!
The books are now on sale at the Archives on Main Street 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.
BAYFIELD CALENDAR
The cover photo of the 2027 Bayfield Calendar has been revealed and calendars are now available. (Photo by Linda LeBel)
The Bayfield Lions’ Club has launched its 2027 Bayfield Calendar. This is 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 and Bayfield Foodland.
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!
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
Mahjong continues 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.
GUILD CELEBRATES SESQUICENTENNIAL WITH DRIFTWOOD MADNESS
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
On Sept. 5, members of the Bayfield Artist Guild hosted 125 visitors of all ages for an aftenoon of interactive driftwood activities in Pioneer Park. (Submitted photo)
The Bayfield Artist Guild (BAG) held its fourth and final Kids Art Pop-Up of the season on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Pioneer Park.
With beautiful weather and the final long weekend of Summer, approximately 125 visitors of all ages came out to enjoy an afternoon of interactive driftwood activities.
Children chose their favorite colors to paint birdhouses and pieces of driftwood, letting their imaginations take flight. In honor of the Malta’s Blue Parrot, on permanent display in the park, many colorful and creative birds were brought to life, while other animals and imaginative characters emerged from the minds of young artists.
The event also became a wonderful multi-generational experience, with parents, grandparents and other family members joining in, encouraging the children and creating art together.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Pioneer Park Association, the Bayfield Lions Club and all the BAG volunteers who helped make this special day possible.
Events like “Driftwood Madness” are a wonderful reminder that Bayfield continues to build community by bringing people together and creating connections across generations. As the community celebrates Bayfield’s 150th anniversary, that sense of community is certainly worth celebrating!
JUNIOR CONSERVATIONIST SHARES INSIGHTS INTO JOB EXPERIENCE
Ben Harter was the Junior Conservationist at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority for Summer 2026. (Submitted photo)
Ben Harter is a lifelong Hensall resident who is entering Grade 12 at South Huron District High School in Exeter. His goal is to study wildlife biology so, he said, being able to work at Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), was “… a dream come true.”
Ben has worked for two months, at ABCA, as Junior Conservationist.
“I have always loved wildlife and the outdoors, spending my free time at the Bayfield River and learning about all kinds of different wildlife, and even going on school trips to study nature,” he said. When Ben first arrived at the ABCA office he was immediately “…inspired by how passionate and amazing the people are.”
“Everyone was so positive and always excited to start the day,” he said. “With each new experience I had, throughout the Summer, there was someone happy and willing to answer my questions and they were often looking forward to teaching me about the job. Even after long days, the positivity was never lost.”
Everyone at ABCA is truly proud about the work they do, he said.
The experience Ben said he will remember most is his work with Huron Stewardship Council.
“One of the last days of the Summer, I was given the opportunity to go on a survey with them for the endangered Queen Snake, a special semi-aquatic snake that only eats Crayfish,” he recalled. “We spent the entire day on the river learning about the habits and behavior of these snakes, measuring them and taking data to be able to ensure their population is thriving. For a high school student looking to go into the environmental field, being able to do hands-on research with animals in their habitat was a truly remarkable experience, and an amazing opportunity.”
Something Ben loved during his time at ABCA was that everyone there was excited to give him as many experiences as possible, ensuring he spent lots of time in the field.
“Some of my favorite jobs were taking water samples every week at different beaches, doing freshwater mussel surveys, endangered turtle and snake surveys with Huron Stewardship Council, and going electrofishing,” he said. “Every day was a new and exciting experience as well as a new opportunity to learn about the environment.”
Another amazing program at ABCA is their nature day camp.
“Days at the day camp were a lot of fun, as I got to teach younger kids all about the wildlife that I love most and show them all of the new things that I learned throughout the Summer,” Ben said. The campers “…always wanted to hear more, and loved seeing and learning about all of the wildlife around us.”
The Junior Conservationist Summer Job Experience Program is funded by Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF). This career opportunity for local youth is possible thanks to the people who donate to the Conservation Foundation and who support its fundraising activities.
“I would like to thank the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation for this opportunity because I have learned so much about the environment around us in only eight weeks,” Ben said. “This job has given me an experience which makes me excited for my future beyond my education, as well as a better idea of what field I would like to go into for post-secondary studies.”
To learn more about the Junior Conservationist program, visit ABCA Foundation Projects on the abca.ca website.
WALK-IN COUNSELING A COLLABORATIVE INITIATIVE
A new collaborative initiative will make it easier for people across Huron and Perth Counties to access timely mental health support when they need it.
Beginning the week of Sept. 14, Huron Health System (HHS), Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Huron Perth, CMHA Thames Valley, and Medavie Mobile Mental Health will launch Huron-Perth Walk-In Counseling, a new pathway for individuals aged 16 and older to connect with a therapy session without an appointment.
The initiative brings together members of the Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Alliance to expand access to counseling and help people connect with the right care at the right time.
“Making it easier for people to access support when they need it is an important part of building a stronger local system of care,” said President and CEO of HHS, Jimmy Trieu. “This new program will create another pathway for people to connect with mental health support when they are ready to reach out. It is also an excellent example of what can happen when local organizations work together.”
Walk-in counseling is intended for individuals experiencing mental health concerns who would benefit from timely access to a therapy session. People can access the service when they need it and return as often as needed, helping ensure they receive support that reflects their circumstances and needs.
“Having same day access across the mental health and addiction system in Huron Perth is a significant step forward for our system. For the first time, people can access services in a number of locations via a number of organizations, but still receive the same care,” said CEO of CMHA Huron Perth, Catherine Hardman. “Mental health and addiction issues continue to grow in our communities and increasing access to care across the spectrum is vital to managing the increasing demand.”
A full schedule of walk-in counseling opportunities across Huron and Perth Counties will be available through the HHS website at Walk-in Counseling. Individuals looking for more information about the program can also contact the Huron-Perth Helpline and Crisis Response Team at 1-888-829-7484.
BRUCEFIELD LODGE CONTRIBUTES
Members of the IOOF Brucefield Lodge 210 stopped by the Alexandra Marine & General Hospital Foundation (AMGHF) office recently to present the Magnetic Moments MRI Campaign with a cheque for $5,000. Participating in the presentation were from l-r: Brucefield Lodge Vice Grand John Neutel; Kimberley Payne, Executive director at AMGHF; Brucefield Lodge Noble Grand Don Petteplace; Mandy Sinclair, Magnetic Moments Campaign associate; Dr. Tiffaney Kittmer, chair of the Magnetic Moments Campaign; Laura Herman, AMGHF Board chair; and Brucefield Lodge Recording Secretary Jim Broadfoot. (Submitted photo)
LIVERY FILM FEST
The Livery Film Fest is back for another season of must-see Canadian and international cinema, and the new season is kicking off with a fresh, funny and heartfelt comedy-drama from Ireland.
“Once Upon a Time in a Cinema” is a love letter to moviegoers everywhere and to the communities that keep their local theatres alive.
Set in the 1980s, the film follows a beleaguered cinema owner, played by Colin Morgan, through his worst Friday night ever. The theatre, its manager and staff are under siege from burst pipes, rodents, unruly customers, ageing equipment, inebriated projectionists, financial pressures and the unstoppable march of new technology in the form of the dreaded VHS tape machine.
Chaos naturally ensues. But when a packed Friday-night screening descends into mayhem, something unexpected happens: the community comes together, transforming disaster into a moment of unlikely glory.
Writer and director David Gleeson returned to his native Limerick, Ireland, to make the film, with production taking place in the city’s old Royal Cinema. Closed for almost three decades, the historic theatre was reopened and reconstructed especially for the shoot, providing an authentic and wonderfully nostalgic cinematic backdrop.
A film about a cinema, made in a cinema, and ultimately about the people who make going to the movies matter, Once Upon a Time in a Cinema offers a fitting start to another season of the Livery Film Fest.
Once Upon a Time in a Cinema plays for one night only on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Park Theatre in Goderich. The box office opens at 6:30.
Moviegoers are once again encouraged to purchase “Skip the Line” movie passes which will be available outside the theatre on movie night. Purchase four passes for $40 or $35 for Livery Members. Annual Livery Memberships are available to purchase online or at the theatre.
The Park Theatre in Goderich is located at 30 Courthouse Square
UNITED INSIGHTS
United Way Perth-Huron’s (UWPH) Social Research and Planning Council (SRPC) is drawing attention to a new outlet where Perth-Huron residents can learn about the region. Since launching in November 2025, the United Insights blog has covered poverty, housing, homelessness, inclusion, and demographic trends across 16 posts and counting.
“The blog lets us connect with interested readers on an ongoing basis,” said VP, Community Impact and Research, Kristin Crane. “In between our major research projects, we’re always investigating issues. The blog lets us share that with the community more broadly.”
The blog is available on the UWPH website and as a subscription newsletter. It features new work by the SRPC team as well as contributions from volunteers. That includes the “Painting by Numbers” series by Robert Stanton, which explores the possibilities of publicly available data, and a series on youth homelessness by social policy consultant Cassandra Vink.
Some of the posts in development focus on the local workforce, incorporating Indigenous practices into service delivery and the unique aspects of rural life.
SRPC is also welcoming pitches from community members who have their own expertise to share.
“So much expertise in our community isn’t being shared as widely as it could be,” added Crane. “Part of our goal is to give local experts a platform to share their knowledge and reach an engaged audience.”
To read, subscribe or submit pitches, visit perthhuron.unitedway.ca.
GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER
Exciting news for Good Neighbours of Bluewater (GNOB)! Through hard work and dedication, they are pleased to announce their doors will be open every weekday starting in September! And looking at the calendar, there will be something for everyone from zero to 99.
Some of the longstanding programs are coffee times, cards, “Room 2 Grow”, knitting and crocheting, and senior fitness. A few of the new programs will be Cube Club, Learn to play Ukulele, and Coffee, Conversation & Crafts.
Plus one special event that is sure to sell out fast is Dinner with Bonnie Sitter of the Farmerettes!
To find out more about this great Fall line-up, call 519 236-7081 or email gnob@hay.net. Be sure to follow them on Facebook at Good Neighbours of Bluewater or on their website at www.gnob.org, or better yet, stop in for a visit at 28 Goshen Street North in Zurich.
HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS WEBINAR
Rural Ontarians are facing increasing struggles in finding adequate, appropriate, and affordable housing. There is a mental toll of experiencing homelessness that needs to be addressed.
Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (CERH) is hosting an upcoming webinar series event on Tuesday, Sept. 15, from noon to 1 p.m. via ZOOM. The topic is “Housing and Homelessness in Huron County: Plans and Progress.” This session will focus on the unique challenges of responding to housing and homelessness in rural areas, and the need for appropriate servicing of mental health services.
Community leaders in Huron County will describe their interventions and what they are planning to do to tackle the problem at an individual, community, and regional level. Partnership is important. This webinar highlights the importance of collaboration and working together to solve a hard issue.
For this discussion, they welcome three speakers: Lynn Higgs, Ryan Erb and Erin Schooley.
Higgs is the Chief Nursing Executive and Vice President of Clinical Services with the Huron Health System, serving both the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital and South Huron Hospital.
Erb is the Executive Director of Perth-Huron United Way. He has 25 plus years of non-profit management, community development, and fundraising experience.
Schooley is the Homelessness Programs Supervisor with the County of Huron for over nine years. They have a history working in Emergency Management with the Canadian Red Cross.
Anyone in the community is welcome to attend. To attend this event and future presentations, please register: Gateway CERH – Zoom.
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
On Saturday, Sept. 26, the team at Huron Hospice will serve dinner at the Libro Hall in Clinton as part of the No Place Like Home Dinner and Auction.
“This is the sixth No Place Like Home event. What started as a One Night Only Telethon has grown in popularity to a farm-to-fork dinner that celebrates the best of home. We celebrate home because Huron Hospice is a home-like place for families on the end-of-life journey and Huron County is our home,” said Huron Hospice Executive Director Willy Van Klooster. “We are celebrating Huron County and Ontario farms and the food and drink that make the County noteworthy.”
The No Place Like Home event is the signature Huron Hospice fundraiser. The event invites conversations, memories and stories about hospice and end-of-life care. Once again, dinner will be provided by Part II Bistro of Goderich, and evoke visions of a Huron County 100-mile diet. If the ingredient is unavailable in Huron County, it will come from as close to home as possible.
According to Christopher Walker, Huron Hospice Manager of Fund Development, “The dinner will feature wine from Maelstrom Winery and draught beer from the new Goose and Gander in Bayfield. The event will include an auction and the famous wine raffle. And if that’s not enough, join us for the pie auction. Aside from being delicious, each pie has a unique story about Huron Hospice.”
The dinner is all about hospice and about stories and moments. The organizers are pleased to announce that Laura Herman and Phil Main will act as emcees.
“We are pleased to have Phil and Laura join us. They know Huron County and they know how to tell stories better than many of us,” said Van Klooster.
Tickets for the dinner are $150 each or $1,200 for a table of eight.
Funds raised each year help pay for the care at Huron Hospice. Last year, Hospice nurses and volunteers provided care for more than 50 people at Bender House. Home hospice and respite volunteers made 567 visits to families in their homes, and 89 people attended grief group sessions.
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.
This week, we take a look at an artifact that demonstrates how people might have listened to music a century ago…
PHONOGRAPH AND CABINET
This is a tall, rectangular shaped, wooden case. It is stained dark brown and varnished. The back is plain while the sides have molding forming a rectangle with inset curve. There is a raised wooden flower motif inside each rectangle curve. The front has a bottom door with the same molding and flower motifs. This door opens on shelving for record storage. There is a silver floral knob on the door. Inside there are four shelves with records. Above the storage cupboard section is an inset rectangle with louvres that open and close to release sound. There are two knobs that are the same as on the bottom door for opening and closing of the louvres. On the panel above the louvre inset there is decorative wooden trim of a flower in an oval with tassels and bow motifs going out horizontally from the flower. The side panels on the front have circular, wooden flower motifs on top, with a wooden bow and tassels going down vertically. The cabinet sits on four square wooden legs with brass bases and casters.
A cove molding style lid opens and is held open with a brass lever, on the inside of the lid is a gold “COLUMBIA GRAPHOPHONE” label. Inside is a turntable covered with green felt, three holes outlined with metal rings, and a silver mechanism for record speed and stop/start lever; one side says “SLOW” AND “FAST” with small markings in-between, the other side says “PATENT APPLIED FOR” with an arrow and “START” in between. There is an arm with a needle to play a record with. On the left side is a silver colored lever with a black handle to wind the phonograph.
Vera Pepper, from the 3rd Concession of Stanley Township, bought the phonograph new while she was going through Normal School in Stratford, ON, in the 1920s. Vera would play music over the telephone party line so others on the other end could hear the music and dance. Vera married Frank McGregor who lived a mile and a quarter up the road on the same concession in Stanley Township. The couple lived on Frank’s farm. When Frank and Vera’s son, Jack, got married, he stayed on the farm and the phonograph remained there.
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Inside top
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Motif on front and handle on side
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Front with top open
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Front with sound louvres and record storage open
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Front of cabinet
MAGNETIC MOMENTS CAMPAIGN
RELENTLESS RAIN UPPED THE COZINESS QUOTIENT AT WINDMILL LAKE FARM
STORY BY MARY ANN COLIHAN AND PHOTOS BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER
The rain was relentless on Aug. 30th so visitors to Bayfield’s Windmill Lake Farm Magnetic Moments fundraising event spent their time inside. But those who came, in rubber boots and rain coats, were rewarded with a very special afternoon. The windmill is solid and it felt like a safe harbor from the elements.
With a nod to the windmill’s Dutch heritage, Nathalie Vermue, a neighbor and event volunteer, sourced several large vases of sunflowers. Visitors quickly felt immersed in a cheerful Van Gogh scene.
Several volunteers had come out to help the Ebers family get the windmill ready. Cobwebs and mud wasp nests were removed and interior wood surfaces got a wipe down. Several treasures, like a massive antique maple sap barrel and ladle, and armoires with Dutch heritage and windmill displays, were given extra care and attention.
George Ebers, owner of Windmill Lake Farm, has built long wooden benches and tables to demonstrate how he used scarf joints to lengthen tails and beams on the Windmill. That is where the hospital volunteers set up displays and information about the need for an MRI in Goderich. There are also wooden benches built on the mill’s interior walls, a convenient place to sit and view the craftsmanship.
Ebers thought it was not just a Magnetic Moment in benefit of the AMGH, but a magical one as well that he called hygge-ful.
The concept of hygge, a state of coziness and well-being, is Danish. However, the Dutch talk about gezelligheid. This concept is more public and social and is engaged in companionship, shared laughter, and having a conversation so nice that it “knows no time”. The afternoon at Windmill Lake Farm had that vibe.
Wooden numbers marked the most important sights inside the Windmill. Ebers spoke to dozens of well-wishers and was aided by Skip Izon and Robin Vermue who know every inch of the structure from their hard, skilled work with restorations. They gave tours of various mechanics and components like the imposing sawmill saws that are now safely viewed behind plexiglass. The upper hatches were open so you could look up the many flights of internal stairs to the Capstan at the top of the Windmill structure.
Bossa nova (new wave) music played in the west side of the Windmill and kept up a festive atmosphere. The band led by Dr. Paul Adams on drums, a Bayfield cottager and keen jazz drummer: featured Rob Whyte, a popular Bayfield chef and caterer on stand-up acoustic bass; Dr. Jerry Battista, retired Chair of the Medical Biophysics Department at Western on guitar; and Ken Baldwin, a former London educator, born in Bayfield, on trumpet. Katherine Barth, a Bayfield cottager and cello teacher in Kitchener-Waterloo, made her debut as a bossa nova singer. The windmill acoustics were warm and lovely.
Another coziness factor was the smell of French fries fresh out of sizzling duck fat from the Local Rolla food truck set up just outside the Windmill. Many visitors bought them by the large box-load with their freshly-made catsup, and shared them widely. Salt Mine Creamery scooped their cool treats and young kids had cups of mint ganache happily in hand. ShopBike brought their coffee indoors and a free will donation jar filled fast.
As well, members of the Alexandra Marine & General Hospital (AMGH) team were there to answer questions about the MRI. Dr. Tiffaney Kittmer is a young mother and general surgeon at AMGH. She had many conversations about why the MRI is so important to Huron County and other new opportunities the equipment might kick-start. This MRI can be a building block for expertise that will enhance the delivery of more complex medical services to the region.
Speeches were kept to a minimum. Ebers was losing his voice from all of the questions he fielded. He was pleased to meet Jarle Fisher who had worked on the Windmill in the early days and has photos from the 1970s, a period not as well documented as the 1980s and 90s.
The Bayfield community had a chance to see a beloved landmark up close and personal. And they heard about the importance of the campaign for their health. To date, the Windmill Lake Farm event has raised $10,790.15 for the MRI campaign at the AMGH.
The hosts at Windmill Lake Farm, George Ebers, Jennifer Pate and Sharon Vitali, want to give a big thank you to all the volunteers who helped prepare the windmill and make the day a success despite the weather.
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
“The Last Mayor of Rusty River” will close the Blyth Festival’s 52nd season on Sept. 13. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)
There are just six performances remaining for the Blyth Festival premiere of “The Last Mayor of Rusty River” as it closes Sept. 13. My husband and I were fortunate enough to see this play on Sept. 4th with our 12 and 15 year-old grandchildren.
Some might think it a bit risky to take two teens to see a play about the bureaucratic process but it had three elements that I was sure they would like – comedic satire, live music and a cat. They both have inherited their grandfather’s love of absurd humor; they are both aspiring musicians and, perhaps most importantly, they are cat people.
Let’s set the scene. It is an election year in Rusty River. The play takes place in the town’s council chambers with the first half of the story dealing with council members deliberating, on among other items the “need” for a town mascot, during an in-camera session. As the story progresses the audience is shown that Rusty River is far from a sleepy town as corporate scandal and romantic intrigue seep through the calls for decorum from the clerk and queries from the town’s newspaper woman. At the heart of the story is the bubbling frustration of two newly elected council members who wish to make a difference for the people of their town despite the desire of the oft acclaimed Mayor to maintain the status quo as he had been reaping the benefits of community apathy for many years.
One young councilor’s solution was to nominate his 19 year-old cat – Captain Whiskers – for Mayor. And so in the second half of the production three candidates for Mayor stand at podiums ready to face the music during a community forum. While I won’t spoil the fun by sharing who wins the night I will offer up that a most startling retort by Captain Whiskers is sure to have cat owners giggling in their seats.
And how did our grandchildren like the show? Well, the youngest tapped me on the arm numerous times to be sure I didn’t miss some of the hilariously exaggerated facial expressions by some of the actors during the dryer sections of council rhetoric. And she concluded that the show was really funny. Our older grandson commented that he wasn’t sure how they successfully made a comedy out of the problems associated with municipal politics but they did!
So a tip of the hat to playwrights David Scott, Gil Garratt and songwriter John Powers for a humorous glimpse behind the curtain of local government at its most dysfunctional. There could be no better way to close out the 52nd season of the Blyth Festival especially when our own municipal elections are just 48 days away! – Melody
P.S. I, personally, especially enjoyed the reference to Girl Guide cookies in this production since 160 cases of the Chocolatey Mint variety will be arriving by truck to my doorstep this Friday!
Ideas and contributions to the Bayfield Breeze are always welcome.
Deadlines for submissions are Sundays at 4 p.m.