Issue 805 Week 51 Vol 16 (2025)

KNOWING THE PAST HELPS WITH UNDERSTANDING THE FUTURE

According to organizers, the Giving Tuesday campaign, “Be part of our living history. Let’s keep it alive!” has been a testament to Bayfield’s love of history and community. In fact, the Bayfield Historical Society (BHS) is thrilled to announce that it has not only met its campaign target of $1,500 but exceeded it by more than $500.

“This has been a humbling experience to see everyone rally around our campaign, and we are deeply grateful for the generosity of our amazing members, donors, volunteers and community,” said Barb Durand, president of the BHS.

The funds will go towards the Society’s mission of maintaining the Archives and Heritage Centre as the hub where people discover and learn about their past, conduct research using their extensive collections of books, prints, photos and other archival holdings, and where the BHS team provides students and young people with educational experiences, organizes community events and exhibits and welcomes visitors and tourists from all over.

The campaign launched in mid-November to leverage Giving Tuesday, a global movement encouraging people to give back to their community or a cause and was designed to raise funds and greater awareness about the BHS while highlighting the role of history in people’s day-to-day lives.

“We are a small but passionate team dedicated to ensuring our stories and traditions get passed down from generation to generation. That the community looks to us to do this work is equally humbling,” added Durand.

With the New Year approaching, the BHS is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, organizing more interesting talks through its Speaker Series and developing other exciting initiatives.

To join the BHS or renew a membership, visit Become a Member

People can also donate at their Canada Helps webpage. BHS Canada Helps.

FOCUS ON VOLUNTEERS

The Bayfield Historical Society would like to take this opportunity to express their heartfelt wishes to the friends, staff and owners of The Albion Hotel and a speedy recovery of this treasured historic building.

As the campaign winds down, the BHS would also like to thank everyone who participated in their campaign by sharing their views on the importance of history. It seems fitting, then, to give the last word to David Yates and Barbara Brown, beloved local authors. Yates wrote the biography on Admiral Henry Wolsey Bayfield, the namesake of the village, while Brown, along with Joyce Lambert, crafted the book, “Reflections of Bayfield: Images Across the Decades”.

Both Yates and Brown often do book signings at the Archives & Heritage Centre, their books being among the most popular in the BHS collection.

HARP ENSEMBLE TO PERFORM AT KNOX CHURCH

Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield is located at 2 Bayfield Main Street, North. (Submitted photo)

Knox Presbyterian Church in Bayfield is pleased to, once again, welcome Martha Lawrance’s Bluewater Harp Ensemble on Sunday, Dec. 15.

“A Christmas Carol or Two” concert will be held beginning at 3 p.m. featuring Martha Lawrance who founded and directs the Ensemble which is composed of eight harpists.

Last year’s Christmas concert was sensational, and featured special soloists, Goldie Garatt, of Bayfield, and Alexa Yeo, of Goderich. Both harpists are students of Lawrance and they will be performing once again. This year in addition, Danuta Wyant, cellist will also be performing. Free will donation. All are welcome!

On Saturday, Dec. 21, all are invited to join the congregation of Knox Church for some “Moments of Solace”. Starting at 7 p.m. this is an opportunity to just “be” in the candlelight and blanketed with quiet songs because sometimes the season is anything but “merry”. This evening is sponsored by Solace Bedside Singers; St George’s Anglican Church, Goderich; and Knox, Bayfield.

On Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. there will be a joint Christmas Eve service held at St. Andrew’s United Church, 6 The Square in Bayfield. Together the Knox and St. Andrew’s congregations will celebrate the spirit of the Christmas season with prayers, and the singing of hymns that sound especially wonderous when performed by a choir in this beautiful church. All are welcome!

On Sunday, Dec. 15, Knox Church will welcome Heather Robinson as their guest preacher. Sunday services are held at 11 a.m. and are open to everyone.

Knox Presbyterian Church Bayfield is located at 2 Bayfield Main Street North. To learn more visit knoxbayfield.ca or follow them on YouTube – Knox, Bayfield.

COMMUNITY INVITED TO LESSONS AND CAROLS

The Trinity St. James Chapel will host the fourth in their series of services for 2024 on Sunday, Dec. 15.

The Service of Lessons and Carols will be held starting at 2:30 p.m. led by Rev’d Justin Comber and is open to all in the community, including families. Just prior to the service at 2:15 p.m. a sing-along will be held led by Lisa Currah. Anyone who enjoys singing is sure to delight in this sing-along featuring some holiday favorites heralding the festive season. Following the service there will be a time of fellowship and refreshment in the TSJ Hall.

Everyone is welcome to attend this special service and invited to help Trinity St. James with outreach in the community. Service organizers will be hosting a “Mittens & Kittens Campaign”. Attendees are asked to bring mittens, gloves, toques or scarves to help people in need have a warmer winter and/or treats, canned food or cat toys to help Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines make the season merry and bright for the many cats and kittens in their care.

Formerly known as the Parish Hall, the TSJ Hall, located at 10 Keith Crescent in the village, is now operated for community use by an Association and is available to rent for such uses as club and business meetings, family gatherings or events including, weddings and funerals.

The TSJ Hall and Trinity St James Chapel now has a dedicated website and people are invited to visit it to learn more about events and rental opportunities at www.trinitystjamesbayfield.com.

TAMMY AND BUTTER AMONG FELINES IN NEED

Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines have many cats and kittens looking for their forever homes such as the Adopt a BFF kittens of the week – Tammy and Butter.

Tammy is a female Calico that is estimated to be about one year old. She is a cat of few words, unless it is time for dinner. When meal time rolls around, Tammy will tell her caregivers exactly what is on her mind, including her opinion of the timing of the meal. Outside of food time, she chats so little that her foster parent honestly thought that Tammy didn’t know how to meow for the first week that she was at her foster home. Her quiet ways are only exceeded by her loveable personality; she loves receiving ear scratches from her foster parent and her favorite hobby is looking out the window at the world outside.

Butter is a male Orange Tabby that was born on June 16 of this year. This little guy came to BFF with a club back foot. Volunteers share that doesn’t slow him down any. He has no trouble keeping up with his siblings whether playing, exploring or getting into mischief. Butter is reported to be a bit of a Momma’s boy though and does check in with her regularly.

Please reach out to bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com to learn more about Tammy and Butter and others. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Can’t adopt or foster at this time? Consider donating for medical care and food to the email address listed above via E-transfer or mail financial donations to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.

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.

CALL FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

At the Municipality of Bluewater Council meeting held on Nov. 4th, Council received a report that an application to purchase 6 Municipal Road had been received.

Council deemed the current building and approximate proposed lot area of 27.5 m x 42.2 m at the south end of 6 Municipal Road, to be surplus to the needs of the Municipality and heard comments from the President of the Bayfield Lions Club, regarding the possible sale of 6 Municipal Road Bayfield, as information.

Expressions of Interest are being sought for the purchase of 6 Municipal Rd. Bayfield, ON and will be received until 3 p.m. local time on Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, at the Municipal Office, 14 Mill Ave. Zurich, ON N0M 2T0.

The full notice for “Call for Expressions of Interest”, and submission requirements can be found on the Municipality of Bluewater website. Based on the expressions of interest received, Council may decide to move forward with a formal RFQ or a direct sale to the applicant.

For further information, to book a viewing of the lands, submit questions or concerns, or request a copy of the Highway Closure Sale of Land policy, please reach out to Lindsay Whalen, Planning coordinator, The Corporation of the Municipality of Bluewater, 14 Mill Ave. Zurich, ON N0M 2T0. Whalen can be reached by telephone at 519 236-4351 Ext. 235 or via email at planninginfo@municipalityofbluewater.ca.

BFIT

The Municipality of Bluewater and the Bayfield Facility Initiative Team (BFIT) have an agreement whereby BFIT is to submit a plan outlining the services wanted by the residents and the surrounding community in a community centre. BFIT has partnered with the Bayfield Ratepayers’ Association, Bayfield Lions Club and Bayfield Chamber of Commerce to form a group to create this plan.

The current programs and activities at the community centre meet many of the community’s needs; however, BFIT would like input from the community to identify what else in addition may be required from a facility to meet their social, educational, and/or recreational needs.

There are funding grants available that might be accessed for creating a new community centre. The wants of facility users and residents are important in the planning stage. They are asked to share their thoughts by completing this short survey:. Bayfield Community Centre Survey The survey will close on Dec. 22.

LEGO CLUB

Families with an interest in Lego design and creativity are invited to come and further “their love for the brick” again this month as the Bayfield Lego Club will meet on Saturday, Dec. 14.

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 all children ages four and up accompanied by an adult, sometimes little siblings come along to allow their older counterparts to attend and now thanks to a very generous donation the club has some bigger blocks in the collection so that these younger siblings can build too!

TSJ Hall is located at 10 Keith Crescent in Bayfield.

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT

Watching birds can be a fun and rewarding activity, especially when people can contribute to citizen science! This year the local Christmas Bird Count will be held on Dec. 30th.

Each year, thousands of Christmas Bird Counts across North America inform scientists about the status of bird populations. Birds Canada invites anyone who lives in the count circle, which includes the towns of Bayfield and Clinton to help track bird populations by observing the species that visit their feeders. It is a simple way to engage with nature and support conservation efforts.

Anyone who is interested in participating or has any questions, is invited to please contact the local Christmas Bird Count Coordinator Dana Latour via email at latourdana@gmail.com.

AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

The Board of Directors of the Bayfield Agricultural Society is looking for someone to fill the position of a Volunteer Coordinator.

Previous experience is helpful but not necessary. A working knowledge of Word and Excel would be an asset.

The duties of this position include: serving as the point of contact for all potential and returning fair volunteers; working with the fair committee chairs to identify their volunteer needs; maintaining a current active list of volunteers; ensuring that volunteers have the information they need about the roles they take on; and following up with volunteers to learn about their fair experience. Meeting attendance would be as needed.

The ideal candidate for this volunteer role is someone who is personable, organized, and a creative problem solver.

For more information, please contact info@bayfieldfair.ca

SANTA LETTERS

The Canada Post strike is causing some difficulties for poor old Santa Claus – no snail mail this year means no box for letters at Bayfield Foodland. The good news is the North Pole has the technology to accept letters by email and so everyone is invited to send their wish lists to santaslittleworkshopnp@gmail.com.

Parents should ensure that their child’s full name is included with their letter. Please only send one letter so as not to overload the workshop! Emailed letters will be accepted until Dec. 19.

BOOK LAUNCH

Local author Judy Keightley will be launching a new book, titled “Five Sisters”, at the Bayfield Branch Library on the morning of Saturday, Dec. 14.

Starting at 11 a.m., all in the community are welcome to join Keightley for an engaging morning as she launches her first novel outside the popular Rose Blair Mystery Series. This new book offers a compelling family saga that explores love, loyalty, and resilience as five sisters navigate life after the tragic loss of their parents. Set in Ontario and Costa Rica, the book promises to captivate readers with its heartfelt exploration of family dynamics and perseverance.

The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.

HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS

“Homemade Holidays” is a program being offered at the Bayfield Branch Library in the days leading up to Dec. 25th, all sponsored by the Friends of Bayfield Library.

Those who take part in this series of holiday crafting will create beautiful, high-quality decorations, gifts and more.

The last session of the season is set for Thursday, Dec. 12 at 5:45 p.m. and is entitled, “Cookie Sheet Countdown”, for ages 15+.

Please note that registration is required. People may register by contacting the library at 519 565-2886 or via email at bayfieldlibrary@huroncounty.ca.

The Bayfield Branch Library is located at 18 Main Street North in the village.

IN MEMORIAM

The community will no doubt be saddened to learn of the death of a couple of longtime residents of the village.

It is with great sadness that the family of Christine Elizabeth Whittet (née Franklin) announce that she passed away peacefully on the evening of Nov. 20 at the age of 78 surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Christine is lovingly remembered by her children Robin; Sarah and son-in-law Marc; Derek and her daughter-in-law Angela; and step-daughter Susie and son-in-law Paul. She is also survived by her sister Martha (Za) and brother-in-law Ray as well as her grandchildren: William, Andre, Holly, Jess, Lukas, Joseph, Jessica and her great grandchildren Kaleb, Chloe and Gabby.

She is now reunited with Todd, her son; and her loving husband David (Scottish Dave) who predeceased her as well as the many animals that she fostered over the years. The Rainbow Bridge is going to be busy!

A Celebration of Life for both Christine and Scottish Dave will be held on Sunday, Dec. 15 from 2-4 p.m. at the Little Inn of Bayfield, 26 Bayfield Main Street North.

Donations to Bayfield’s Forgotten Feline would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

LIONS’ CALENDAR

The Bayfield Lions’ Club is proud to announce the launch of its 2025 Bayfield Calendar. This is the 15th edition of the calendar and the 13th 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 Bayfield Convenience, Bayfield Foodland, or The Village Bookshop or by going directly to www.bayfieldcalendar.ca and following the instructions there.

Both the Lions Club and the PCoB would like to extend their appreciation to the businesses and individuals that advertise in the calendar and make this fundraiser possible each year.

DEMO FARM SUPPORTS DISTRIBUTION CENTRE

The Huron County Soil and Crop Improvement Association (HSCIA) donated $5,000 to the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre (HCFBDC) on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3rd.

Taking part in the presentation held at the Huronview Demo Farm, located at the Huronview complex south of Clinton, were Peter Nonkes, director of North Huron Food Share and HSCIA vice-president; Sharon Devine, HSCIA secretary-treasurer; Mary Ellen Zielman, executive director of HCFBDC; Wim Feddes, HSCIA president; and Rick Kootstra, manager of Huronview Demo Farm.

The HSCIA made the donation possible, thanks to the work of agricultural producers who volunteer at the farm and by harvesting and selling the crop produced on the Demo Farm. The HSCIA is pleased to be able to help others at this time of year and to give back to the community while also improving soil health at the Huronview site.

The HSCIA is able to plant the crops and conduct trials, including cover crops, at the Huronview Demo Farm, thanks to a lease with the County of Huron. To learn more about the Huronview Demo Farm, visit huronview.net

SOUTH HURON HOSPITAL IMPLEMENTS NEW PROCESS TO ENCOURAGE ORGAN DONATION

South Huron Hospital (SHH) has implemented a new routine notification process to the Trillium Gift of Life Network (TGLN), the organization responsible for delivering and coordinating organ and tissue donation and transplantation services across the province. This initiative ensures organ and tissue donation consideration following a patient’s passing.

Routine notification will now cover all deaths in the Emergency Department, regardless of age, and for patients 79 and younger in the In-Patient Unit. If someone is eligible for donation, TGLN will reach out to the family to discuss organ and tissue donation. This is part of the Gift of Life Act’s goal to increase donations in Ontario.

“Our commitment is to lead by example in promoting organ and tissue donation,” said President and CEO at Huron Health System, Jimmy Trieu. “By integrating routine notifications with the Trillium Gift of Life Network, we are taking a vital step to ensure every opportunity for donation is explored. This initiative underscores our dedication to saving lives and supporting families in making informed decisions. We urge everyone to register as donors and to have meaningful conversations with their loved ones about this life-saving choice.”

Discuss organ and tissue donation with your loved ones. Families often honor registered donors’ wishes, but only 50 per cent consent if their loved one wasn’t registered. It’s crucial to register and share your decision.

Traditional paper donor cards are no longer valid for organ and tissue donation registration in Ontario. To verify a registration, check the back of your Ontario health card. If “Donor” is not indicated, you may not be registered. Confirm your status by visiting www.beadonor.ca or any Service Ontario location.

CAMPAIGN IN SUPPORT OF LOSS, GRIEF AND BEREAVEMENT PROGRAM

Huron Hospice has launched its annual fundraiser called “Wings of a Dove”. This year, the campaign will raise money to fund the Loss, Grief and Bereavement Support Program at Huron Hospice.

This support program helps children, youth and adults learn how to manage their grief. Huron Hospice offers the program at no cost to the participants, because the last thing a family should have to think about at a challenging time is the cost of services. It’s all about making sure that compassionate care is available across Huron County.

According to Huron Hospice Executive Director, Willy Van Klooster, “Loss comes in many forms, the death of someone special, a marital breakdown or the loss of a job. At some point in our lives, we will all experience a loss. When we do, we will grieve. For some people grief becomes a challenge that is hard to manage. This kind of grief can affect daily life and when this happens, it is okay to say, ‘I need help’.”

This year, when people give to Wings of a Dove, Compass Minerals, Merner Contracting, the Lions Club of Brussels and an anonymous donor will match all gifts up to $20,000.

Christopher Walker, manager of Fund Development said, “Compass Minerals and Merner Contracting have been wonderful supporters of the Wings of a Dove campaign for a number of years. When the Brussels Lions Club found out about the match they asked if they could help. The match means a gift of $100 becomes $200 and $250 grows to $500.”

Walker also said, “Giving feels good, and it feels even better when you know you are supporting such an important cause.”

Walker pointed out that “due to the labor disruption at Canada Post, the campaign may be delayed this year. Although it may be delayed, the need is real. People can continue to support Huron Hospice by making a gift online, by E-transfer, or over the phone. If people still want to donate by cheque, it can be dropped off at Bender House.”

People can join the Wings of a Dove fundraiser by logging in to www.huronhospice.ca or calling Christopher Walker at 519 525-7352.

It is important to remember if anyone feels like they are having a difficult time managing their grief, they should not hesitate to call Huron Hospice. They are available to help. Call Sally Brodie at 519 525-6331.

FOLK-INFLUENCED CONCERT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR HURON HOSPICE

Evoke, a singer-songwriter duo featuring Jack Clarke and Deb Shelley, is delighted to be coming to Bayfield on Sunday, Jan. 12. Their afternoon concert of acoustic, folk-influenced music and song has taken as the “Well-Seasoned” inviting listeners on a musical journey through a year of life and beyond.

All proceeds of this event will be in support of Huron Hospice. The Province of Ontario covers about half of a hospice’s operating expenses, while all hospice care and grief services are provided at no charge to residents and their families.

Both Clarke and Shelley have a background steeped in music-making, and have performed together in different capacities.

Clarke is a trained and gifted guitarist and composer, creating and arranging songs from a spectrum of musical styles. He is equally at home crafting blues, folk, light jazz, and classical sounding music on his guitar or ukulele, with occasional harmonica woven in. His soothing, gentle voice provides an easy welcome to the listener.

Over the years, Shelley has focused on developing and directing community vocal groups, such as “Solace”, “Driftwood Harmony”, and “Full Circle Singers”. In 2022, she completed her M.A. in Community Music at Wilfrid Laurier University, and was instrumental in leading Huron Hospice in their quest to become Music Care Certified earlier this year. When asked, Shelley claims that her instrument of choice is a “Pilot” gel pen; she appreciates the power, musicality, and poetry of language. Beyond that, she loves to sing, most often choosing a harmony part.

A few years ago, Clarke sent Shelley the recording of a song he’d created that was in need of lyrics. They’ve been co-creating songs ever since. Their ever-expanding repertoire is rich with reflective songs that by turns will have the listener tapping their foot, closing their eyes in thought, or humming along.

Cliff and Penny, recent attendees at an Evoke concert, extended their thanks for the “soothing song, beautiful harmony and gentle lyrics,” adding that “the performance was extremely well received.” Another attendee, Doug, declared “Jack and Deb are pure joy. Evoke creates a journey and brings the listener along for the ride, with lyrics and music harmonized into a feeling of bliss.”

All are welcome to attend Evoke’s “Well-Seasoned” concert on January 12 at 2 p.m., at St. Andrews United Church, Bayfield, which is wheelchair accessible. Admission is by donation; tax receipts from Huron Hospice will be issued for donations of $20 or more.

An anonymous donor has offered to match all funds collected to a maximum of $5,000, so individual donations will have double the impact!

To add a touch of extra flavor, a delectable basket of seasonings from The Gravy Boat in Bayfield will be offered as a door prize at the event.

Please note that if winter weather is prohibitive on Jan. 12, the concert will be rescheduled to Sunday, Jan. 19, at the same time and location. Updates will be provided on the Huron Hospice website and on social media.

For further information, please visit www.huronhospice.ca/events

REMINDERS ON HOW TO STAY HEALTHY OVER THE HOLIDAYS AND BEYOND

The wintry weather has now arrived and so too has influenza (“the flu”). Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has received notice of the first lab-confirmed influenza case for the 2024-2025 season in Huron and Perth.

Additionally, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Mycoplasmapneumoniae continue to circulate in Huron and Perth counties. HPPH urges residents to protect themselves and others from illness, especially during the holidays when more group gatherings are held.

“Everyone has a role to play to reduce the spread of respiratory illness,” said Medical Officer of Health at HPPH, Dr. Miriam Klassen. “Using multiple layers of protection will reduce your risk of spreading or developing respiratory illnesses, including those caused by M. pneumoniae and other pathogens such as influenza, SARS-CoV-2 and RSV.”

Respiratory illness is spread from respiratory droplets that come out of an individual’s nose and mouth when they cough, sneeze, breathe or talk. Close contact with someone who is sick, or touching a surface or object with a virus or bacteria on it, then touching the mouth, nose or eyes, increases the risk of illness.

The following measures can help protect everyone from respiratory illness this season:

• Wash or sanitize hands often
• Cover coughs and sneezes with an arm (not hands) or with a tissue
• Wear a mask in indoor public settings or in crowded spaces
• Practice physical distancing
• Spend time outdoors or in well ventilated indoor spaces when possible
• Stay home when sick, and do not go out in public until symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours (48 hours for nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea). Wear a mask for 10 days following the onset of illness to prevent further spread. In addition, for 10 days following the onset of illness, avoid visiting people at higher risk of severe illness such as those in long-term care or hospital.
• Get vaccines recommended for age and health status, including seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines
• Create a plan with a healthcare provider to access antiviral medications for those with chronic health conditions that put them at higher risk for complications and hospitalization.
• Seek medical care if worrisome new symptoms develop such as wheezing or difficulty breathing, or if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening despite treatment.

Common seasonal respiratory viruses may not require medical assessment or specific treatments like antibiotics. However, those with pre-existing chronic health conditions may be at higher risk of more severe disease and should seek medical care if they have severe, persistent, or worsening symptoms, especially if they might be at higher risk of developing severe disease.

HURON SONG CHORUS

The Huron Song Chorus and friends will present “A Christmas Concert” in two different communities later this month to benefit the Huron Women’s Shelter.

They will perform at Lakeshore United Church in Goderich on Monday, Dec. 16 with special guests the Exeter Kids Choir. And then on Wednesday, Dec. 18 they will take to the stage at Northside United Church in Seaforth with guest singer Ava Dawe. Both concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is by donation to the Huron Women’s Shelter.

Lakeshore United Church is located at 56 North Street in Goderich while Northside United can be found at 54 Goderich Street West in Seaforth.

GOOD NEIGHBOURS OF BLUEWATER

On Thursday, Nov. 28, an instructor from Ward’s Driving School, Punee, was the guest at Good Neighbours of Bluewater’s (GNOB) “Meet Your Community Neighbour” series.

He has been a driving instructor for many years and he is passionate about providing practical instruction for both new drivers as well as offering refresher courses for seniors. Those who attended the session found the Question & Answer to be filled with interesting, helpful and humorous information. Organizers are pleased to announce that this instructor will be returning to GNOB in the New Year.

Every Thursday morning Good Neighbors of Bluewater has the coffee on and warm muffins are served fresh out of the oven. Starting at 10 a.m. folks are invited to drop in and join in a conservation with friends. The “Meet Your Community Neighbour “ segment is held on the second Thursday of each month. This is a casual time of conversation including a question and answer time.

On Dec. 12, members of the Bayfield Ukulele Society will join in the conversation and treat those who attend to a few Christmas selections.

“Meet Your Community Neighbour” will continue in the New Year, the special guests scheduled for casual conversion and/or a meet and greet are:

• Jan. 9 – Judith Parker and Marion Cornish, Fidget Apron Creators from Exeter
• Jan. 23 – Bluewater and Area Family Health Team Social Workers, Ashley Blake and Bethany Keep
• Feb. 13, Municipality of Bluewater Councilor, Winona Bailey Sangster

GNOB have a couple of Tuesday evening events in the works as well, both set for 7 p.m.:

• Jan. 21 – Financial Education Evening with Jim Lynn Retired Financial Consultant
• March 25 – Author Jody Durand reading from his book “Country Boy Soul: Pasture to Prosperity”

Programs being offered in the New Year include an Intergenerational Knitting and Crocheting Club, for ages nine to 90 plus, to be held on Wednesday afternoons starting Jan. 8. Sessions will run from 3:30-5 p.m. Both beginning and accomplished knitters and crocheters welcome. The cost will be $5 per session and includes a snack. Please register to take part at gnob@hay.net.

GNOB will be closed from Dec. 23 to Sunday, Jan. 5. Reopening on Monday, Jan. 6. Merry Christmas to all!

SOURCE PROTECTION COMMITTEE

The Ausable Bayfield Maitland Valley Drinking Water Source Protection Region is looking for a new source protection committee (SPC) member to represent the environmental sector. Interested candidates can apply by submitting their cover letter and résumé by 4 p.m. local time on Friday, Dec. 13.

To apply for the position or to find out more visit the local source protection website at Source Water Info.

Applicants must reside in, own or rent land in, be employed in, operate a business in, or be employed by a municipality within the source protection region.

The Ausable Bayfield Maitland Valley Source Protection Committee oversees a science-based planning process, to protect municipal sources of drinking water, that is governed by the Ontario Clean Water Act, 2006. The SPC reduces risk to local municipal drinking water sources through implementation of locally developed, provincially approved source protection plans.

In addition to the SPC Chair, there are 12 members of the source protection committee. Four SPC members are from municipalities. There are four reps from the economic sector: two from agriculture; one from industry; and one from commerce. There are four SPC members from other interests: two from the environment sector; one property owner representative; and one public-at-large member. There are also non-voting liaison members from local public health; source protection authorities; and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP).

For a summary of member obligations and a full job description please visit Source Protection Committee Info.

MOMENTS OF SOLACE

Anyone who is finding the holiday season difficult, is feeling alone, sad or worried is invited to attend “Moments of Solace” to be held at St. George’s Anglican Church in Goderich on Sunday, Dec 15.

All are welcome to find themselves wrapped in a musical blanket of comfort and care in a peaceful and loving environment at this free concert being gifted by Solace Bedside Singers. The performance will begin at 4 p.m.

St. George’s Anglican Church is located at 87 North Street in Goderich.

For more information please contact Deb Shelley at 519 270-9146.

HURON HOSPICE

Hockey enthusiasts in the area can look forward to a Benefit Celebrity Hockey Game presented in support of the Central Huron Firefighters’ Charity of Choice: Huron Hospice.

The Central Huron Firefighters will face off against a full line-up of former NHL hockey heroes. This fantastic community event promises lots of skill and lots of laughs, and is guaranteed to be a fun and memorable event for all ages!

The puck will drop in Clinton at Eastlink Arena on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

This game is in support of Huron Hospice. For 30 years, families have turned to Huron Hospice for support at the end-of-life. Huron Hospice provides care at Bender House and in the community for people with life-limiting illnesses. Huron Hospice also provides loss and grief support for children, youth and adults.

Since opening the residence in 2018, Huron Hospice has made moments matter for more than 250 individuals and their families at Bender House, and for 600 individuals and their families in the community. There are no costs for any services. Huron Hospice is a place where families celebrate lives-lived.

Tickets may be available at the door for $32 each if they last! Discounted tickets are available in advance through the Event Ticket & Info Line: 1-888-777-9793 or www.ProHockeyHeroes.com. A portion of the promotion will consist of a telemarketing campaign in Clinton and the surrounding area.

HURON WAVES

Huron Waves is pleased to present “This Season of Magic: An Afternoon with Susan Aglukark” on Saturday, Dec. 14 and Sunday, Dec. 15 at the Huron Country Playhouse on the South Huron Stage.

Aglukark is acclaimed as one of Canada’s most significant cultural treasures, a beautiful singer, a powerful songwriter and an inspiring representative of the culture of northern communities. Aglukark will bring her festive Christmas show to Southwestern Ontario for two matinee performances both starting at 2 p.m.

Supported by the Aglukark musicians and the “Flight Children’s Choir”, there will indeed be magic at the Playhouse as everyone joins Aglukark to celebrate the season with traditional carols in English and Inuktitut, holiday favorites, and, of course, “O Siem”, the singer’s signature refrain.

A special afternoon for young and old alike to remember this program is suitable for ages seven and up. Tickets are $52 for adults and $26 for youth under the age of 20. To buy tickets, visit: Huronwaves.ca.

Huron Country Playhouse is located at 70689 B Line, Grand Bend, ON.

Remember This

This issue, we suspend our usual “Remember This” section to share a bit of the history of the building that is home to The Albion Hotel, which suffered extensive damage when its roof collapsed early on the morning of Dec. 8.

THE ALBION HOTEL

In the very early 1840s a man named Robert Reid constructed a one story building as a general store on the site that is today known as 1 Bayfield Main Street North. In 1856 the building was modified to add a second story and the doors were opened as The Albion Hotel.

According to the book, “Bayfield Historic Walking Tour” composed by the Bayfield Historical Society in 2009, this version of the then stagecoach hotel was torn down and the larger hotel of present day was constructed (no exact date is provided for this construction). The hotel was purchased by the Elliott family in 1890 and members of this same family ran the business until 1964.

In 1902 the double verandah was added by the Elliotts. According to The Albion Hotel website, “In the 1980s great effort was made to bring in all the modern amenities expected of a hotel while at the same time restoring the original architecture and feel of late nineteenth-century Bayfield. After doing some basic remodeling of the rooms and kitchen, a heritage grant from the Ministry of Culture and Communications was granted to restore the original veranda.”

The current owners Leigh and Jeff Graham purchased the property in February 2018 from long-time proprietor Kim Muszynski.

The Albion Hotel isn’t just known for its accommodations, food and beverage it is also renowned for having a possible ghost in residence. It has been suggested that it might be Harvey Elliott who was tragically shot by his brother Fred on Nov. 8, 1897.

THE ALBION HOTEL

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER DETERMINES BUILDING WILL STAND

STORY BY MELODY FALCONER-POUNDER

Sometime in the early morning hours of Dec. 8, the weight of snow on the roof of one of Bayfield’s most beloved heritage buildings caused the roof to collapse. As a result, The Albion Hotel was extensively damaged, while the adjacent building, home to the Black Dog Pub & Bistro, also sustained some damage.

For the next couple of days, the community held its collective breath, watching as Romeo Demolition and Excavation Inc. of Waterloo, ON, came in to work on securing the building, all the while waiting for the verdict from a structural engineer to learn what the future of this iconic building would be.

According to Leigh Graham, co-owner of the business with husband Jeff, the decision came mid-day on Dec. 10.

“This morning, we got the best news that we have had yet. A structural engineer assessed the building and has determined that it will stand!”

She went on to say that it has been the couple’s priority to save and preserve The Albion Hotel as much as possible.

In the hours after the collapse, actions were taken quickly to work to save the building. The Graham’s insurance company immediately contacted Winmar, property restoration specialists, who, led by Travis McIlhargey, contacted Romeo, who, in one of those “it’s a small world” moments, were discovered to have ties to Bayfield.

“Noah from Romeo arrived promptly to begin work to save our building. I believe that all these skilled tradespeople understood the significance of the building and went above and beyond to save it from further damage,” said Leigh.

The team worked through the night of Dec. 8 and into much of the next day to remove the roof to prevent further damage to The Albion and the neighboring Black Dog.

“In order to access the roof and prevent it from causing further damage, the verandah had to be removed as it had become detached from the building due to the roof collapse. It had to be removed for both safety and to allow machines to remove debris. Now that this work is complete, they will be tarping and waterproofing,” said Leigh.

She added, “It will be a long road to recovery, but Jeff and I are committed to restoring The Albion to her former glory.”

And on that road to recovery, the Grahams are most concerned about the 27 staff they currently employ. These people are also a top priority for the community as well, as evidenced by the growing contributions on a “GoFundMe” page that was started by Bayfield resident Serena Snell. As of publication time, the total donated has surpassed the $50,000 mark. The money raised will be transferred to the Grahams so they can divide it among their staff to help make up for some of the wages lost during the holiday season.

“Jeff and I are so deeply grateful for the tremendous amount of support and encouragement from our community. It is abundantly apparent that The Albion Hotel is dear to the hearts of many, many people and that they share in our grief as we witness the extensive damage,” Leigh said. “We cannot express enough how thankful we are to each and every individual who has donated. It eases our pain to know that our employees, who are also our co-workers and friends, will be receiving some relief funding during a time that is trying on them and their families.

“To everyone who has been kind enough to offer help in any way, Jeff and I only ask that if you have the means to support our staff by donating, please do.”

To donate, please visit: Tip Your Albion Servers.

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