THAT’S A WRAP BAYFIELD LATEST PROJECT BY BAYFIELD CENTRE FOR THE ARTS

The Bayfield Centre for the Arts (BCA) is calling for submissions from photographers to wrap the eight hydro transformer boxes now installed on the village’s Heritage Main Street. The 2023 call for submissions is for nature and outdoor-themed designs. Through this public call, it is hoped that the beauty and natural splendor of Huron County will be captured, displayed and promoted on the pad-mounted transformer boxes on Main Street Bayfield for years to come.

The “That’s a Wrap Bayfield” hydro box art program will enliven the landscape, help to camouflage the presence of the many boxes on the heritage street and visually connect the community of Bayfield to residents and visitors.

The BCA is seeking photographers to submit large format images of flora, water, river and other natural, lush and blooming vegetation such as plants, shrubs, ivy, bushes, weeds, flowers, grasses, fields, rivers, (no sky in image) all captured in full bloom in August, September and October. Please note no late fall or winter photography will be considered. Original photographs only.

This opportunity is open to photographers who live, work or operate in Ontario. The theme of the design must include plant life from nature that is natural to Huron County. No imagery that includes people, buildings, man-made structures or vehicles will be considered.

Photographers must complete entry submissions by Nov. 30. The target installation date on the hydro boxes is early summer 2024. Upcoming events surrounding this project for which dates have yet to be determined, include an exhibit of the project entries, People’s Choice Award voting and the announcement of winning photographs.

BID FAREWELL TO SUMMER WITH DANCELAND

Jale and Joe Ferland released their first album, “Pink Lem” as the jam band known as “Danceland” in the summer of 2022. The group name as well as two songs on the record were locally inspired. (Photo by Kateryna Topol)

“Danceland” is coming to the Bayfield Town Hall for their end of summer 2023 celebration!

This afternoon outdoor concert will begin at 4 p.m. with the grounds opening at 3:30 p.m.

The jam band is composed of Jale and Joe Ferland as well as drummer Brad Park along with guest keyboard players and bassists.The Ferlands may already be known to many locals as their Grateful Dead/Jerry Garcia Band cover band, “Cherry Garcia Band” has played Bayfield Volkfest and at the River Road Brewery in the past.

Danceland is rooted in a timeless psychedelic Americana tradition, replete with fine, storyteller songcraft; sunny harmonies; lonesome pedal steel; stratospheric lead guitar passages; and a touch of Eastern mysticism. This band evolved during the pandemic when Joe began writing original tunes with additional lyric contributions provided by Jale.

The name Danceland comes from Danceland Road located just south of Bayfield in the Municipality of Bluewater – those who attend the concert will be treated to such locally inspired songs as, “Daneland Road” and “Bluewater Sky”. They will also delight in performances of music by the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan, selections from the Motown era as well as a mix of Reggae. It sounds like there may be no more appropriate way to say, “Goodbye to summer!”

Tickets for Danceland at the Bayfield Town Hall are $20 each at Tickets.  Cash bar. Please bring a lawn chair.

GUIDED WALK PART OF TERRY FOX RUN 

 “Nobody is ever going to call me a quitter. ” – Terry Fox

The Terry Fox Run shirt designed for 2023 “celebrates the countless messages Terry received from the millions of people he continues to inspire.” This shirt will be available for purchase at the Bayfield event. (Photo courtesy terryfox.org)

At 18 years-old Terry Fox was diagnosed with cancer and lost his leg. Two years later Terry started training to run across Canada. In 1980 he began his Marathon of Hope, raising funds and hoping for a cure for all cancers. Terry ran over 5,000 km – covering six provinces – to raise funds and share his message. Unfortunately, Terry’s health deteriorated, forcing him to abandon the Marathon. People all across Canada have since run every year in memory of Terry and as a result over 850 million dollars has been raised for cancer research.

On Sunday, Sept. 17, people are encouraged to run, walk or bike and raise funds to keep Terry’s dream alive. Bayfield has raised over $55,000 through Terry Fox Runs, and for this support organizers are truly very grateful. A guided group will be leaving from the Clan Gregor Square gazebo at 10 a.m. to walk a 3 km route.  If people would prefer to run, bike or rollerblade, they should feel free to choose their own route and time. Participants may register online as an individual, family or team and start collecting pledges. The process is extremely simple; visit: Terry Fox Run Bayfield 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 Code on all the 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 Sunday, Sept. 17 between 9-10 a.m. at the gazebo in Clan Gregor Square. They will also be selling 2023 Terry Fox T-shirts at $25 each and have 2023 participation seals available. Also, for those interested, they 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.

CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD COMMITTEE COUNTING DOWN TO OPENING WEEKEND

The Christmas in Bayfield kick-off weekend is set for Nov. 17-19 and the committee behind the magic is working hard to make it happen. They are currently inviting people to support the event in a variety of ways be it with ideas, donating funds or volunteering. (Photo by Melody Falconer-Pounder)

Christmas in Bayfield (CIB) is fast approaching.

“We look forward to hosting guests the weekend of Nov. 17-19. The committee has already been working hard to be prepared. Look for posters and bag stuffers at supporting businesses, if you are shopping in the village,” said Secretary-Treasurer of Bayfield and Area Chamber of Commerce, Terri Louch. “The posters are also distributed across Southwestern Ontario in order to spread the word.”

Louch would like to thank the businesses that have already pledged funding to support this event and encourage people to follow and support the CIB participating businesses. The list is constantly evolving and a current list can be viewed by visiting: link here. These businesses will be eligible places to spend the gift certificates which will be given away. Watch for the upcoming social media contest to enter!

“As we look to build an even bigger attendance than usual, the Chamber is getting the word out as early as possible. While CIB is a great weekend, we want to ensure that people know we are here year round as well,” said Louch. “We utilize CIB weekend to kick off the holiday shopping season with most businesses remaining open for business until the end of the year. Look for print ads, the posters as discussed and this year we have introduced double sided bag stuffers with one side advertising CIB and the other offering information about shopping and activities year round in the area.”

Each year one of the many highlights of CIB is the parade. CIB has a new coordinator for the parade this year!

“Thanks to Paul Hill for taking on this role. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the parade this year for CIB please have them send an email to: committeecibparade@gmail.com We would love to have you join us,” said Louch.

She went on to say that they are looking for street performers and buskers to once again entertain guests.

“This was quite successful last year and we would like to be able to expand this type of offering. If you or someone you know would like to be considered, please send an email to villageofbayfield@gmail.com,” Louch said.

The CIB Committee will not be organizing an outdoor artisan market this year. Given the unpredictability of the weather they cannot ensure success for those vendors. Last year the weather and placement of the vendors did not lend itself to success. The CIB Committee learned from the vendors feedback and until they can support this type of opportunity in a better way they will refrain.

“As you might imagine, this weekend requires a great deal of work both prior to the weekend and during the weekend to ensure everything runs smoothly. Have some time and would like to volunteer to help out?  We would love to have you,” said Louch.

Interested individuals are asked to please drop an email to villageofbayfield@gmail.com.

“We will find something that interests you and utilizes your considerable skills. No time but have ideas that we could incorporate into the weekend? Once again email us as we would love to discuss your ideas,” she said.

Finally, the costs to create the magic for the holiday season continue to increase. The CIB Committee looks to their businesses, grant funding and community for financial support in order to continue offering this great opportunity for guests and locals alike! Anyone who would like to support with a financial contribution is asked to please reach out to the BACC at villageofbayfield@gmail.com with an E-transfer or to find other ways to contribute.

Louch went on to say that BACC would like to acknowledge and thank the Municipality of Bluewater for their support.

“We were awarded funding to help support this event through the Vibrancy Funding grant stream allowing us to do more but not ask more of our businesses!” explained Louch.

The BACC and the CIB Committee would like to thank everyone very much for their continued support.  Businesses are encouraged to reach out to discuss ROI for their investment.

Currently in the works for CIB 2023 with more to come are:

• The Lighting of the Lights in Clan Gregor Square Friday evening where Santa will stop by for a visit.
• The annual CIB Parade starts at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the north end of Main Street.
• Santa will see children in front of the Bayfield Branch Library after the parade on Saturday
• Free Horse and Carriage Rides Saturday and Sunday
• Buskers
• Face painting both Saturday and Sunday in the lobby of the Post Office Box Building (Library)
• Social Media event and gift certificate giveaway – All CIB participating merchants will be eligible to redeem gift certificates. A running list will be available in all social media channels acknowledging those businesses and ensuring guests know where they will be able to spend their winning gift certificates.

YARD SALE AND ADOPT-A-THON FRIDAY

Friends of Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) will be holding a Yard Sale to raise some much needed money for the Rescue that has helped hundreds and hundreds of cats and kittens find health, happiness and a forever home!

The sale will be held at 5 David Street in the village from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 1st. All are welcome to come find the purr-fect treasure to take home in support of BFF.

In addition, there will be an Adopt-a-thon happening at  BFF’s kitten headquarters at 16 Keith Cres. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. So after browsing and buying at the Yard Sale all are invited to swing by and meet all manner and age of kittens that are currently or nearly ready for their forever homes and enjoy a cuddle or two!

Kittens that people will be able to visit with at the Adopt-A-Thon include: Austen, Everest, Venus and Wren. They are also our Adopt-a-BFF kittens of the week.

Austen is 19 weeks-old and he has the cutest face and biggest eyes! Austen likes to be in the action but is also happy to take a break from his antics for a nice cuddle which always gets rewarded with a loud purr!

Everest is 14 weeks-old and is a real lover. This beauty with the most intense eyes is cuddly, playful and full of spunk.

Thirteen week-old Venus has recovered from an illness she came to the Rescue with and has become a beautiful kitten. She is a little shy so will need a patient home in which she will have time to adjust.

Wren was found as a small kitten and adopted by Nanny, one of the BFF Mommas. Wren is still a bit skittish but with a little extra love should make a great companion.

Anyone interested in adopting Austen, Everest, Venus or Wren are asked to reach out to BFF through Facebook or email bayfieldsforgottenfelines@gmail.com.

BFF now has a new Facebook group dedicated to adoptions known as “Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines ADOPTION Group”.

In addition to accepting monetary donations, BFF now 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.

Financial donations may also be sent via E-transfer to the email listed above or mailed to P.O. Box 33, Bayfield, ON, N0M 1G0. The adoption fee is $250. Adopted cats are vetted, shots are up-to-date and they are also spayed or neutered. Adoption inquiries may also be made to the BFF’s email address above.

GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY HELD AT BUTTERNUT ARCHIVE ORCHARD

There were 20 people, including interested woodlot owners and project partners, who attended a groundbreaking ceremony, on Friday, Aug. 18, at the new Butternut Archive Orchard at Triebner Tract near Exeter, ON. The new seed orchard, to help protect an Ontario species at risk, is a project of Forest Gene Conservation Association and local partner Ausable Bayfield Conservation.

The Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA) hosted a groundbreaking ceremony, on Friday, Aug. 18, at the five-acre Butternut Archive Orchard at Triebner Tract northwest of Exeter. There were 20 people at the ceremony including project partners and interested woodlot owners. The archive orchard is created to help protect the endangered Butternut tree species.

The ceremony began with brief remarks, in front of the Southern Ontario Butternut Seed Orchard sign, and concluded with the planting of a Butternut tree at the site. The project partners planted other Butternuts, at the site, in May of this year.

Heather Zurbrigg is Manager of Species Conservation with Forest Gene Conservation Association.

She said she was “excited to see so many people here to join us for this groundbreaking of the Butternut archive … it’s amazing.”

She said FGCA is involved in four main program areas: seed management; education and advocacy; climate change adaptation; and species conservation.

“Our largest project area, under the species conservation program, is our Butternut recovery program,” she said. FGCA now has six Butternut archive orchards. “This is a huge step both for the FGCA and for Butternut recovery.”

She added, “North American research indicates searching for genetically disease-tolerant Butternuts is one of the best strategies for recovery of this species. We need to maintain as many trees as possible showing signs of tolerance to the Butternut canker and that have seed production capabilities across the range of Butternut to allow the exchange of genetic material and hopefully the production of the next generation of potentially tolerant trees.”

She thanked Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA) for their work on the new archive orchard.

The Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA), and local partner Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA), hosted a Groundbreaking Ceremony, on Friday, Aug. 18, at the new Butternut Archive Orchard at Triebner Tract northwest of Exeter, ON. Shown at the ceremony, in front of the sign, are from l-r: Heather Zurbrigg, FGCA manager of Species Conservation; Ian Jean, ABCA Forestry and Land Stewardship specialist; and Corey Gent, FGCA Butternut technician. (Submitted photos)

“We are so happy to have Ausable Bayfield Conservation as our newest partner in this Butternut recovery effort and we look forward to a long and fruitful partnership together,” she said.

The creation of the seed archive orchard is possible thanks to species-at-risk funding from the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP).

“MECP has been integral for this archive,” said Zurbrigg. “They have funded more than half of this orchard with the Species at Risk Stewardship Program. We are so thankful for all of the funding, facilitation of funding and in-kind partnerships we have received over the years from many organizations and we couldn’t have the robust Butternut recovery program we do without all of you.”

Ian Jean is Forestry and Land Stewardship Specialist with ABCA. He began his remarks at the ceremony by thanking the Triebner family for making it possible, in 2009, to acquire the Triebner Tract. The five-acre Butternut Archive sits in the northwest corner of this 100-acre tract of land.

“I also want to recognize our local municipalities for their leadership and support in enabling the conservation authority to acquire and conserve these important land parcels and to enter into these important collaborative partnerships to conserve and restore the watershed and contribute to broader conservation initiatives such as Butternut recovery,” he said.

The conservation authority, with support of federal and provincial funding partners, has been restoring habitat at the site including tree planting and wetland creation to complement the adjacent provincially significant wetland in Hay Swamp.

“The Butternut was an important tree for wildlife and for people,” Jean said. Historically, the nuts were a food source for First Nations peoples and settlers.

“Butternut was quite common locally and grows very well on our local soils,” he said. “We believe this Butternut Archive Orchard site should grow very nice Butternut and we hope it will contribute to the recovery of this species.”

He ended his remarks by saying, “I love trees and everything about them and to be able to play a small part in species recovery is very special for me.”

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson provided remarks that were read at the ceremony.

“We live in a beautiful province with a bounty of natural resources and, as stewards of the land, it’s our job to protect and preserve it for future generations,” she said. “Initiatives like this allow us to do exactly that … I encourage you to keep doing what you’re doing – you are paving the way towards a brighter, more environmentally-sustainable future for all Ontarians by maintaining the biodiversity within our forests, fields, and bodies of water. And, for that, you have my utmost thanks.”

Planting a Butternut seedling, at the Butternut Archive Orchard at Triebner Tract near Exeter, ON, during the seed orchard groundbreaking ceremony on Friday, Aug. 18, were from l-r: Ian Jean, Forestry and Land Stewardship specialist with Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA); Heather Zurbrigg, manager of Species Conservation with Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA); and Corey Gent, FGCA Butternut technician.

Butternut is a species at risk throughout its natural range in Canada and the United States. Butternut is impacted by Butternut Canker (Ophiognomonia clavigignenti-juglandacearum) which is a fungus that affects the cambial layer of Butternut usually causing tree mortality. Once a common tree throughout eastern North America, Butternut is now uncommon and is listed as endangered under the Ontario’s provincial Endangered Species Act (ESA). Healthy Butternut are very rare and now considered too few and too far apart for natural recovery. Butternut trees on the landscape throughout the natural range of Butternut that are showing tolerance to the Butternut Canker are the foundation of the FGCA archiving recovery efforts. Archive orchards are planted with grafted trees grown from scions (twigs) collected from these healthy Butternut. Establishing archive orchards will enable cross-pollination and future seed production between tolerant trees to aid in the re-introduction of healthy Butternut on the landscape and recovery of Butternut in Ontario.

The Forest Gene Conservation Association is a not-for-profit organization in Ontario. FGCA’s goal is to assist forest practitioners to conserve and augment the genetic diversity of forests through Species Conservation, Seed Management Expertise, Climate Change Adaptation, and Education and Advocacy. FGCA partners with the government, forestry sector, not-for-profit organizations, landowners, conservation authorities and other groups on projects across southern Ontario.

TRIO OF EVENTS UPCOMING FOR HURON HOSPICE

Jess Langan and Josh Geddis from Bayfield and Steve Dawe from Clinton will once again unite to perform at the upcoming telethon for Huron Hospice. (Submitted photo)

Get Ready! In September, Huron Hospice has something for everyone.

Join them on Saturday, Sept. 23, when the lights go up on the “No Place Like Home” concert Live from the Kingsbridge Centre.

The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. with headliners: Amanda McClure and Tom Burke from Seaforth; Josh Geddis, Steve Dawe and Jess Langan from Bayfield and Clinton; and Clinton’s own Grant McMillan.

First held in 2020 as a virtual event, No Place Like Home was an original Huron Hospice solution to fundraising during a pandemic.

“We thought it would be One Night Only! However, the event was so successful and so much fun that we just had to do it again and again and again,” said Christopher Walker Huron Hospice, manager of Fund Development. “The event allows us to celebrate the best of our home, Huron County.”

Artistic Director of the Blyth Festival, Gil Garratt and Member of Parliament, Ben Lobb will join Huron County Coordinator of Tourism and Local Food, Alecia Anderson as celebrity emcees.

“We are honored to have the three of them join us again. Each brings a commitment to Huron County and a deep understanding of the arts scene. The fact that Alecia, Ben and Gil are making time for Huron Hospice shows how important the Hospice is for everyone across the County,” commented Walker.

Walker also thanked the creative team at Faux Pop Studios in Goderich for their dedication to the event.

“Faux Pop helps us put together a wonderful show. It will be an entertaining evening,” he said.

For those who wish to attend the concert in person, tickets are selling for $50 each. This ticket price includes a complimentary Concert Shuttle. Guests must reserve their shuttle seats when they buy their tickets on a first-come, first-serve basis. The event will have a cash bar service and beef-on-a-bun. A vegetarian option and chocolate chip cookies will also be available. Goodwill donations will cover food costs.

Funds raised at the event ensure the Hospice can support over 200 families across Huron County at no cost. The last thing a family should worry about is the cost of hospice palliative services at the end of life.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit: Telethon 2023.

The West Coast Blues – BluesFest in Goderich on Sept. 1st and 2nd is supporting Huron Hospice this year. Some great acts will entertain. Tickets are available at Ernie King Music, Finchers and Wuerth Shoes, all in Goderich.

To learn more visit:  West Coast Blues.

Anyone looking for ways to bring harmony and balance to their life may like to participate in a two-day workshop helping people understand the principles of Feng Shui in the home, garden and workplace.Led by Feng Shui instructor Helen Varekamp, participants will learn to change their thinking, their surroundings, and their lives. Huron Hospice will receive proceeds from this workshop. To register visit: Feng Shui Workshop.

MCQUAILS HONORED BY HURON-BRUCE NDP

Fran and Tony McQuail, were honored by the Huron-Bruce New Democratic Party (NDP) Riding Association for their tireless efforts in support of the party for over four decades. The couple are shown standing at the podium on the stage at The Livery where the evening was held on Aug. 24. (Submitted photo)

The Huron-Bruce New Democratic Party (NDP) Riding Association came together on Aug. 24 to host an unforgettable fundraising dinner at The Livery in Goderich. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the resolute spirit and unwavering dedication of Fran and Tony McQuail, two stalwart champions of progressive values and longstanding pillars of the community.

The evening was filled with camaraderie, inspiring speeches, and lively music as attendees gathered to honor the McQuails’ profound impact on the region. The distinguished lineup of speakers included Huron-Bruce NDP President Angela Keeley, Huron-Bruce NDP Vice President Nick McGregor, Huron-Bruce NDP Secretary Jillian Bjelan, former Ontario NDP Candidate Laurie Hazzard, as well as the honorees themselves, Fran and Tony.

The evening’s festivities were heightened by the delectable offerings of Pineridge Barbecue, tempting attendees with an array of culinary delights. Musical entertainment was provided by The Devon Drive Drifters, adding a lively rhythm to the event and creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.

For over four decades, Fran and Tony have been unwavering pillars of the Huron-Bruce NDP, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to their community. Tony’s political journey began with his 1980 candidacy for Member of Parliament, marking the start of his unyielding dedication to his constituents. He has fearlessly contested in five federal elections and twice provincially, solidifying his status as a champion of progressive ideals. Tony’s passion for public service extended beyond elected roles, including his tenure as a school board trustee, president of the Huron County Federation of Agriculture, and executive assistant to the Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs. His tireless activism has left an indelible mark on numerous causes, enriching the very fabric of the community he holds dear.

Fran’s impact, though often operating behind the scenes, has been equally profound. In 1984, her instrumental role in the establishment of Women Today of Huron showcased her visionary spirit and unwavering dedication to empowering women in the region. Her contributions have garnered recognition, including the Agnes MacPhail award by the Ontario NDP in 2016, a testament to her outstanding service.

The evening’s success would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the Huron-Bruce NDP Riding Association, event organizers, volunteers, and the generous support of attendees.

EDUCATORS UNITE FOR NATURE WORKSHOPS

Denise Iszczuk, Educational consultant (left) and Janneke Vorsteveld of Seeds Rooted in Youth are excited to offer a couple of workshops for educators with regards to getting youth outdoors this Autumn. (Submitted photo)

Fall begins on Sept. 23.  At the same time, a new education series will also begin – “No Boundaries Nature Workshops – Falling for Nature”.  Partnering for this educator professional development workshop series is Janneke Vorsteveld of Seeds Rooted in Youth and Denise Iszczuk, Educational consultant.  Together they have a combined total of almost fifty years of teaching.

“Any outdoor space provides a valuable learning experience for students,” said Vorsteveld.

Celebrate back to school, with fall themed strategies for teaching outside.  This workshop is geared to anyone who wants to learn more about teaching and learning outdoors.

“We wanted to give back to the community through a workshop which would help give educators the tools and confidence to bring learning beyond the walls of the classroom,” said Iszczuk.

Sign up now for the session to be held on Sept. 23, 9:30-11 a.m. at Bad Apple Brewing in Bluewater and Sept. 27 from 4:30-6 p.m. at the West Perth Community Centre in Mitchell.

Registration is limited and registration can be found at seedsrooted.org.  All registrants will receive access to curated teaching materials with Ontario Curriculum connections for teaching outdoors this Autumn because children need nature.

Register by Labour Day to be entered into a draw for a new book from local author Jon-Erik Lappano called “Martin and the River”.  Organizers are pleased to support Lappano’s new book as it examines a child’s perspective on making meaningful connections to nature in the city and on finding ways to accept changes.

For more information, please contact Denise Iszczuk by calling  519 200-8662 or Janneke Vorsteveld at 519 440-2189.

Bad Apple Brewing is located at 73463 Bluewater Hwy near Bayfield and the West Perth Community Centre is located at 185 Wellington Street in Mitchell, ON.