NEW BRIDGE UNDERGOING TESTING

Site work for the new Bayfield Bridge project commenced in September of 2019 and the temporary Bailey Bridge came into use in mid-April 2020. Almost two years later the project is nearing completion with the hope that the new bridge will be opened to traffic mid-April. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)

The latest update provided through the Municipality of Bluewater regarding the progress of the new Bayfield Bridge offers a possibility of it opening to traffic in mid-April, several weeks past the earlier hoped for date of mid-January.

A highlight of the new bridge design is the arch, to the untrained eye, and those who drive by the bridge regularly, it would appear that all is complete.  However, Bluewater has received notice that some off-site laboratory testing is required to ensure that the components of the arch meet design standards. Tests of this nature are not unusual and began in mid-March with a plan for completion in early April.

Following test completion, the plan is to have traffic moved to the new bridge by mid-April and the temporary Bailey Bridge removed shortly thereafter. The plan would then be to construct the cantilevered sidewalk on the west side of the bridge during the more favorable weather months of April and May.

SPRING DATE SET FOR FESTIVAL

Bayfield Arena Community Partners Association (BACPA) and the Bayfield Community Centre Team (BCCT) are gearing up for the return of a highly anticipated spring event. The Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival is back for year six on May 14th.

“The Bayfield Beer, Wine and Food Festival is scheduled back to its normal weekend and now at full capacity,” said Bill Whetstone, co-event chair. “This is our major fundraiser and 100 per cent of the proceeds go back into youth sports, programs, equipment and subsidies at our facility so everyone can play.”

Whetstone went on to say that, just like everyone else, BCCT and BACPA have been hit hard by the pandemic and the organizers are hoping that people will return to support the festival that raises funds for the not-for-profit organization now running the Bayfield Community Centre. He would also encourage newcomers to attend.

“If you’ve never been, consider coming to this great event,” he said. “There are 22 vendors signed up to participate and three bands scheduled to play.”

The event will run from 2-9 p.m. Tickets are $45 per person and will include eight food tickets and eight drink tickets.

Tickets are available now at Eventbrite.ca (Bayfield Beer & Food Festival), at ShopBike Coffee Roasters on Main Street, or by calling Whetstone at 519 955-0682. Check Facebook at @ Bayfield Beer & Food Festival for more information.

FIVE LITTLE INDIANS WINS BAYFIELD READS

Bayfield Reads 2022 took place on Sunday, March 27th on ZOOM and was very well attended.

After much deliberation, made more difficult by everyone’s outstanding presentations, this year’s Bayfield Reads winner was “Five Little Indians” by Michelle Good, defended by Abby Armstrong. The four judges tasked with making the decision were: Chris Walker, Peter Brent, Lorelei Lingard and Carmen Davies.

The People’s Choice Award, chosen by popular vote of the participants, went to “What Strange Paradise” by Omar El Akkad, defended by Rachael Rishworth.

In addition to the winners, this year’s Canada Reads books up for defense were: “Scarborough” by Catherine Hernandez, defended by Sally Leitch; “Life in the City of Dirty Water” by Clayton Thomas-Müller, defended by Duncan McGregor; and “Washington Black” by Esi Edugyan, defended by Ralph Blasting. Organizers noted that all of the defenders did a fabulous job defending their respective books.

The Village Bookshop partners are very grateful to everyone who participated in this year’s Bayfield Reads. All of the wonderful contender books are available at the shop. Please keep an eye on the events page at villagebookshop.ca for more upcoming events.

SECTIONS OF FAIR LOOKING FOR HELP

Helpers are the lifeblood of all organizations and a great way to meet new people.  The Bayfield Agricultural Society (BAS) hosts an annual agricultural fair, this year set for Aug. 19-21, and recently they had their first volunteers contact them to assist at the gate and help with the Rise2Fame Youth Talent Show. Helpers are welcome in other areas as well.

“We welcome people who would like to provide assistance with the parade,” said Doug Yeo, representing the BAS. “This event brings in bands and Shriner groups as well as encouraging local businesses, community groups and individuals to be part of the parade.  Bill Whetstone has coordinated the parade for many years and could use helpers with lining up floats, closing off roads or contacting interested participants. The parade brings crowds to the Main Street and business to the stores and as such is an important feature for the fair and the downtown businesses. Help ensure the parade this year is one of the best in many years.”

Help is also needed with the baking section of the fair.  Assistance is sought for contacting some of the regular supporters of prizes but definitely while entries come in.  This section also has the perks of sometimes getting small samples of prize-winning entries.  Jean Dunn would like to build up a set of helpers to ensure this section is ready to receive all the baked, canned and pickled entries this summer.

The Art and Photography section needs someone who is good at organizing and problem solving.  There are helpers to assist with putting up the entries and displaying everything.

“If you believe that the arts need to be promoted and visible to the community, this part of the fair shows the talent that this community has,” said Yeo. “Several of the high school students who have submitted entries in the past have gone on to arts programs after graduating.”

According to Yeo, there are many opportunities for students who want to help with the fair as well as others who want to ensure this community event runs smoothly.

“Put the fair in your summer plans,” Yeo concluded. He invites those interested to check the BAS website and fill out the section under ‘Volunteer Today’ or just send a note to info@bayfieldfair.ca.

PSA FROM THE BAYFIELD PACC

Bear spreading the clean-up message for a healthier village for all to enjoy. (Submitted photo)

A Public Service Announcement (PSA) from members of the Bayfield People and Canine Community (PACC):

“Yes folks, it’s that time of year again. The melting snow has revealed the treasures our dogs have left behind over the winter season.  Of course, this could be mitigated by employing consistent scooping practices throughout the year, no matter the season.  Nevertheless, let us resolve to ensure that we all move forward with the intent to keep our community clean and healthy.  You will notice that we have once again placed our reminder signage throughout the village.  Please take that message to heart and be sure to tell your visiting friends as well,” said Suzan Johnson, representing the Bayfield PACC.

Although it may not look like it right now, spring has arrived and with it comes a calendar of future events that promise to lift spirits and provide fun times for residents and visitors alike.  Bayfield PACC plans to participate in the Bayfield Lions Home and Garden Show slated for Apr. 29th to May 1st.

“Look for our community booth at the arena.  We would love to engage you in a conversation relating to our goal of a leash free play area,” said Johnson.

Bayfield PACC invites people in the community to mark their calendars for other spring community events such as Earth Day Clean Up (Apr. 22) and the Bayfield Lions Walk for Dog Guides in early June.

Unfortunately, with the advent of warm weather, comes the dreaded “tick season”.

“Do yourself and your canine companion a favor by regularly checking for these nasty pests.  Your vet can provide you with the information and means to keep your pet healthy.  With that in mind, get your walking shoes out and seize the day!  Don’t forget your leash,” concluded Johnson.

“Bayfield People and Canine Community, Inc. (Bayfield PACC) is a registered not-for-profit in Ontario with a volunteer executive management team and volunteer board of directors. Bayfield PACC is supported by an active group of responsible dog owners and volunteers in the community and by like-minded friends of Bayfield PACC on Facebook and Instagram. For more information please visit: www.bayfieldpacc.com.”

APRIL HIKE DETAILS FROM BRVTA

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) is pleased to announce three events for April: “Agriculture and Nature in Harmony”, Apr. 9; “The Woods are Waking Up”, Apr. 16; and Bayfield’s Eighth Annual Earth Day Litter Walk, Apr. 22.

Huron County is the most productive agricultural region in Ontario and also home to beautiful natural areas.  Did you ever wonder how they coexist?  Wayne Cantelon is a third-generation Huron County Farmer.  Nathan Schoelier oversees stewardship and conservation programs for the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority. Join them for “Agriculture and Nature in Harmony” a hike in the Linfield Conservation Area on Saturday, Apr. 9 at 2 p.m.

Participants are asked to meet at 37940 Pavillion Road in Bluewater. The Area is west of the Pavillion Road and Goshen Line intersection, southwest of Varna and north of Zurich.  This is an easy walk through woodlots and open trails for about 2 km and will last about 90 minutes.

“The Woods are Waking Up”, with environmentalist Michele Martin will take place along the Woodland Trail in Bayfield on Saturday, Apr. 16 starting at 11 a.m. Martin has supervised environmental education programs in Toronto, Waterloo and the Seychelle Islands. A regular visitor to Bayfield, the BRVTA is excited to welcome her as a guest hike leader.  As the forest wakes up from a long winter, Martin will show participants what to look for on the Woodland Trail. Those who take part are asked to meet at the David Street trail head. A map can be found at www.bayfieldtrails.com/woodland-trail.

Bayfield businesses, visitors and residents of all ages are invited to join the BRVTA for their Eighth Annual Earth Day Litter Walk. This annual spring clean-up event will be held on Friday, Apr. 22 starting at 2 p.m. with Clan Gregor Square the base of operations. Participants are asked to wear gloves and brightly colored clothing or borrow one of the BRVTA’s safety vests. Organizers will provide garbage bags and people can choose the area in the Village where they want to pick up litter. Registration will take place from 2-3 p.m. with garbage to be returned by 4 p.m.

“Together we can keep our streets clean, protect the environment from harmful plastics and household waste, and enjoy an afternoon in the great outdoors,” said Ralph Blasting, hike coordinator for BRVTA.

April hikes are open to the public without registration.  Dogs on leash are welcome. For more information on any event, contact hike coordinator Blasting by calling 519 525-3205 or emailing rjblastingjr@gmail.com.

PEACHES RESCUED FROM HARSH WINTER

Peaches (Submitted photo)

Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) has helped hundreds of feral and abandoned cats find their forever homes but many are still waiting.

Peaches is the Adopt-a-BFF cat of the week.

Peaches has earned her right to a warm and cozy home with her forever family. Periodically through the winter she would show up at a farm. She was very timid when approaching the farm but hunger soon won out over fear. She was fed by the farm family and they were eventually able to trap her.

She proved to be very trap savvy and it was not an easy job but with perseverance, they were able to catch her and bring her to the Rescue. She has only been at the Rescue for a short period of time but seems to be enjoying being indoors with access to a soft bed. Peaches appears to be very curious about the goings-on in the shelter and does not seem to be intimidated by the number of cats that are equally curious about her. Once Peaches is vetted she will be ready to go to her forever home where cold winter nights outdoors will be but a fading memory.

If Peaches is the gal for you please email bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com for more information.

The adoption fee is now $200. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Donations are also always appreciated. E-transfers can be sent to the Rescue’s email or email to arrange for a drop off or pick up of donations. Cheques can be mailed to Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines, P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0.

PLAYHOUSE LAUNCHES FIFTIETH SEASON

Open the doors and cue the stage lights! The historic Huron Country Playhouse will finally welcome audiences back to the Mainstage and newly named South Huron Stage (formerly Playhouse II) in Grand Bend this year. The venue’s two stages will be filled with memorable music, entertaining stories, joyful laughter, heartfelt applause, and maybe even a few tears as audiences, artists, volunteers, musicians, backstage crew, and more celebrate the return of live theatre with five productions on stage during the summer season, which will run from June 23 to Sept. 4.

It is a landmark season for the Playhouse as the iconic summer theatre destination celebrates 50 years of theatre in Grand Bend. Over 230 productions have been staged since the theatre’s inaugural season in 1972.

“Commemorating the longevity of the Huron Country Playhouse means that much more after all we’ve been through over the last few years,” said Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment, Alex Mustakas.  “We encourage audiences to make a special trip to Grand Bend – hit the beach, visit local restaurants, play a round of golf, tour the wineries nearby, stay over at one of the many first-rate area accommodations, and of course, see a show or two to mark this momentous anniversary. Years from now we’ll all talk about where we were, and what shows we saw, the year that theatre came back.”

Fiddler on the Loose will bring its high-energy musical prowess to kick off the 50th Anniversary Season in Grand Bend. Anchored by fiddler and showman Jesse Grandmont, this gregarious musical variety show features over 60 songs running the gamut of genres including, “Dust in The Wind,” “Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “Footloose,” “Tennessee Waltz,” “Orange Blossom Special,” and many more. Fiddler on the Loose will run June 23 to July 9 on the Mainstage.

Audiences in need of a few good laughs are bound to get them with the outrageous British farce It Runs in the Family running from July 20 to Aug. 6 on the Mainstage. A renowned neurologist’s indiscreet past catches up with him at the most inopportune time, forcing the doctor to do anything (and everything!) to save his precious reputation. Frantic, funny, and completely outrageous, this rib-tickling farce proves once and for all that laughter truly is the best medicine.

The hills will be alive with The Sound of Music as Rodgers and Hammerstein’s treasured musical brings the Mainstage summer season to a close. Featuring the memorable songs: “My Favorite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” “Edelweiss,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” and the glorious title song, this family favorite follows aspiring nun Maria as she leaves the convent to govern the seven mischievous children of Captain von Trapp. Renowned as one of the most popular musicals of all time, The Sound of Music will entertain all generations – kids and grandparents alike – from Aug. 17 to Sept. 4 on the Mainstage.

Over on the South Huron Stage, Good Ol’ Country Gospel will bring its soul-stirring ballads and spirited songs of praise to audiences from July 20 to Aug. 6. Featuring glorious arrangements and heavenly voices, this uplifting celebration shines a new light on spiritual favorites including: “Amazing Grace,” “Peace in the Valley,” “How Great Thou Art,” “When the Saints Go Marching In,” “I Saw the Light,” and many more.

Then, The Sweet Delilah Swim Club brings Southern-fried humor to Grand Bend to wrap up the season on the South Huron Stage. Five women who met years ago on their college swim team set aside a long weekend every summer to reminisce and reconnect. Free from husbands, kids and jobs, they meet at the same beach cottage on North Carolina’s Outer Banks to catch up, laugh, and offer advice on everything from men, sex, and marriage, to parenting, divorce, and aging. Part Steel Magnolias, part Designing Women with just a hint of Golden Girls, this fresh and funny friendship comedy is on stage from Aug.18 to Sept. 4.

Creative teams and casting will be announced at a later date.

In addition to the five professional shows on stage at this beloved summer hot spot, the popular Youth Pre-Professional Production Program will move to Grand Bend giving aspiring young performers from the area the opportunity to perform a one-hour version of Disney’s Frozen Jr. from Aug. 9-13. Frozen Jr. will be performed by kids for kids with the intention of giving local youth the chance to participate in and learn more about theatre.

“It’s exciting and emotional at the same time because we’ve waited so long for the return of live entertainment,” said Mustakas. “That said, full recovery will be a multi-year effort, so this season looks a little different. There are one or two fewer shows as we cautiously resume operations, but the top-quality entertainment experience and customer service audiences have come to expect remain the same.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Drayton Entertainment has made health and safety a top priority. The charitable arts organization was one of the first theatres across the country to close its doors in March of 2020 to prevent the spread of coronavirus. That commitment continues as the company carefully enacts its reopening strategy. Although the Government of Ontario has lifted restrictions for theatres, allowing for 100 percent capacity, Drayton Entertainment recognizes that patrons have different degrees of comfort.

With the aim of making the return to live theatre as easy as possible for everyone, the award-winning theatre organization will offer show schedules with varying capacities and protocols that gradually change as the season progresses.

For June and July, audiences can choose from performances at 100 percent capacity with no proof of vaccination required, limited capacity (33 percent reduced) with no proof of vaccination required, and limited capacity (33 percent reduced) with proof of vaccination required. For August through the end of the season, audiences can choose from performances at 100 percent capacity with no proof of vaccination required and limited capacity (33 percent reduced) with no proof of vaccination required. The Drayton Entertainment Duty of Care adheres to local and provincial health guidelines and is subject to change in response to current conditions throughout the season.

Tickets are on sale exclusively to members by phone now. Tickets are on sale to everyone by phone, in person at select Box Office locations, and online 24/7 at www.huroncountryplayhouse.com beginning on Monday, Apr. 4. To order by phone, please call 519 238-6000 or toll-free at 1-855-372-9866.

For more information about Drayton Entertainment’s complete 2022 Season on all seven stages, please visit www.draytonentertainment.com.

NEW CHAIRS FOR ABCA

The Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) has a new Chair and Vice Chair. Dave Jewitt, of Central Huron, is the new Chair and Marissa Vaughan, of South Huron (representing South Huron and Perth South on the ABCA Board) is the new Vice Chair. They were elected at ABCA’s Annual Meeting in February. (Submitted photo)