An Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies Accomplishment Award was presented to IODE Maple Leaf Chapter. IODE Past Regents Penny Murray and Melitta Wasylciw were on hand to accept the award on behalf of IODE.
The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) kicked off its 170th anniversary year with the organization’s 2025 Annual Meeting, which was held at St. Andrew’s United Church on Monday, January 12.
Following a pizza party and delicious homemade desserts, the group gathered to listen to the guest speaker, Marlene Beyerlein, owner of Bayfield Berry Farm. Marlene’s topic – “Orchards in the 2020s” – touched on all aspects of running a modern, diversified fruit farm, from planting techniques, field labour, and pest management, to the newer value-added offerings in her shop, and markets where Bayfield Berry Farm products can be found. This was followed by a question-and-answer session.
Following the guest speaker, the business of the Annual Meeting proceeded. Annual Meetings are held so that members can learn about what the organization has accomplished, approve the financial statement and proposed budget, and appoint people to committees and positions of leadership.
Greetings were received on behalf of the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies (OAAS) from OAAS Provincial Director Jentje Steenbeek, including an introduction of District Representative and incoming OAAS Provincial Director Spencer Dunsmore, who attended representing OAAS District 8.
The BAS also used the event to acknowledge and present awards to organizations that have provided years of support.
This year, an OAAS Accomplishment Award was presented to IODE Maple Leaf Chapter for its longstanding commitment to providing financial support for Youth Class exhibit prizes at the fair. IODE Past Regents Penny Murray and Melitta Wasylciw, accepted the award from BAS President Doug Yeo. BAS members had the opportunity to learn more about the IODE’s fundraising efforts and the community work that the organization is involved in.
A second OAAS Accomplishment Award will be presented to Rosie’s Ice Cream at a later date as they were unable to attend. Rosie’s Ice Cream has provided financial support for the Bayfield Community Parade for the past number of years.
The 2026 BAS Executive was elected at the Annual Meeting. Doug Yeo was re-elected as President; Samantha Van Aaken as 1st Vice-President; Cate Thompson as 2nd Vice-President; and Pam Stanley as Homecraft President. Treasurer Jentje Steenbeek and Secretary Sue Warren were re-appointed to their positions. Also welcomed were six new Directors, who will bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to their roles on the Board of Directors.
Doug Yeo’s comments as incoming President stated that he “was pleased to be part of our expanded and refreshed team.” This team will be guiding the activities that will take place in the 170th anniversary year. The organization looks forward to hosting another fair that will leave lots of happy memories for the young and young at heart. A true sense of enthusiasm was evident in the room following the meeting.