SHOWING OF ROCKY HORROR A HALLOWEEN TREAT

Dr. Frank-N-Furter in a scene from the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” playing on Halloween Night at the Bayfield Town Hall courtesy the Bayfield Indie Film Series (Image courtesy 20th Century Fox)

Let’s do the Time Warp Again…

The 1975 cult classic musical, “Rocky Horror Picture Show”, stars Susan Sarandon, Tim Curry and Meat Loaf. Audiences everywhere enjoy taking part by singing along to such classics as “Time Warp” and “Sweet Transvestite”. Even the nerdy Brad, played by Barry Bostwick, was able to convince the world that “Damn it” and “Janet” rhyme in the song, “Dammit Janet”.

Get ready, Bayfield! Bayfield Indie Film Series is bringing Rocky Horror Picture Show to the Bayfield Town Hall for one showing only on Tuesday, Oct. 31st at 7:30 p.m.. Dress up in your finest Halloween, Rocky-inspired costumes and join in the mayhem!

This will be a licensed event with a cash bar. Advance tickets are $10 and are available by contacting bayfieldfilms@gmail.com or tickets can be purchased at The Village Bookshop. After the film, all movie goers are invited back to Bayfield Brewing Company where the festivities will continue!

Bayfield Indie Films is proud to premiere their newly acquired surround sound system, purchased at the Pioneer Park Rummage Sale and donated to the Bayfield Town Hall. Bayfield Indie Film Series is the creation of six local movie enthusiasts who thought it would be fun to offer unique entertainment to this community. All profits from the films will continue to go back into the community to support and nurture creativity in beautiful Bayfield.

People can follow the Bayfield Indie Film Series on social media @bayfieldindiefilmseries.

THREE CONSECUTIVE EVENTS BRING HIKING SEASON TO A CLOSE

The Bayfield River Valley Trail Association (BRVTA) has three final guided hikes of the season scheduled on three consecutive Saturdays in October with opportunities to enjoy the fall colors, learn more about Bayfield’s history and support the local food bank.

On Oct. 14, people are invited to join in a Fall Colors Hike at the Lobb Trail starting at 10 a.m. This is a beautiful well-groomed trail with several riverside locations, gentle hills, scenic rest stops and some heritage interpretation plaques. The Lobb trail is located at 81077 Maitland Line, Clinton. From Hwy. 8, turn north onto Sharpes Creek Line and then right onto Maitland Line. The entrance to the trail is at the intersection of Maitland Line and School House Road. Canine companions on leash are welcome.

On Oct. 21, a BRVTA members only event will be held. The membership is invited to a Historic Cemetery Tour with Dave Gillians, author of “For the Love of Bayfield”. Much of Bayfield’s history is reflected through the headstones in this sacred place. During this walk, stories about some of Bayfield’s most fascinating people will be respectfully told. This 1.5 hour hike is limited to 20 people. No dogs, please! Participants are asked to meet at 10 a.m. at the cemetery on the north side of Mill Road, 1 km east of Hwy. 21. Pre-register by contacting Ralph Blasting at rjblastingjr@gmail.com or call 519 525-3205.

Not a member yet? Go to www.bayfieldtrails.com and click “Memberships”. Dues are $20 per year for individuals and $30 for a family. By becoming a member, you’ll be supporting an organization that actively promotes environmental awareness, outdoor recreation, as well as fitness and community engagement.

The final guided hike of the season is the Harvest Hike in support of the Bayfield Area Food Bank (BAFB). Join the BRVTA on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. at the Varna Nature Trails, just west of Varna on Mill Road. As they hike the 2.5 km Mavis’ Trail, participants will recognize the important work of the BAFB. Please bring a non-perishable food item or a donation (cash or cheque made out to Bayfield Area Food Bank). Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.

These hikes are free and open to the public except where noted. The schedule is subject to change, so always check for updates in the Bayfield Breeze, the BRVTA Facebook page or the Municipality of Bluewater events calendar. Or people can contact the hike coordinator, Ralph Blasting, via the contact information listed above.

VALDY RETURNS TO THE TOWN HALL

Valdy (Submitted photo)

Members of the Bayfield Town Hall Heritage Society are excited to announce that Valdy will be performing at the Bayfield Town Hall on Friday, Oct.  20.

Valdy has been part of the fabric of Canadian pop and folk music for almost 40 years and has performed at the Bayfield Town Hall many times.

A man with a thousand friends, from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island to Texas to New Zealand, he’s a singer, guitarist and one of Canada’s most influential songwriters, capturing the small but telling moments that make up life. Remembered for “Play Me a Rock and Roll Song”, his bitter-sweet memory of finding himself, a relaxed and amiable story-teller, Valdy has sold almost half a million copies of his 13 albums, has two Juno Awards (Folk Singer of the Year and Folk Entertainer of the Year), a total of seven Juno nominations and four Gold albums to his credit.

The doors to the hall will open at  6:30 p.m. The concert will start at 7 p.m. There will be a cash bar.

Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased online at www.bayfieldtownhall.com.

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT FOR CHRISTMAS IN BAYFIELD 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.

IRIS NEEDS PATIENT HOME TO BLOOM IN

Iris (Submitted photo)

Every week the volunteers at Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines (BFF) encounter seemingly unimaginable challenges in protecting the cats and kittens that come into their care – one such sweet creature is featured in this issue.

Iris is the Adopt a BFF cat of the week.

Iris arrived at BFF with three kittens, two of which, Sapphire and Dandy, are also still at the Rescue.

Iris will require a loving and patient home for her to come out of her shell and bloom into the “purrfect” family member.  She likes to hide, but can be coaxed out and will sit and listen to you…however, she still needs to understand that a human hand can be very loving!

If someone has a place in their hearts for Iris they 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” so people can view even more of the fur babies ready for homes.

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.

HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS RECOGNIZED

The Gateway Centre of Excellence in Rural Health (Gateway) Team, dedicated to enhancing the health of rural communities, hosted a remarkable event at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Goderich on Sept. 28, to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of healthcare professionals within the region.

In rural areas facing a critical shortage of healthcare professionals, community members often go above and beyond to provide outstanding caregiving. The event aimed to honor individuals who tirelessly worked during critical and uncertain times, as nominated by their peers, patients, and community members. These unsung heroes were acknowledged for their unwavering commitment to community health.

The evening, masterfully spearheaded by the Gateway Team, provided a platform for respite and celebration for the diverse group of caregivers’ present – ranging from doctors, nurses and PSWs to fitness instructors and pharmacy technicians. The event unfolded with warm greetings from local dignitaries expressing support and well-wishes for the dedicated healthcare workers. They also had the privilege of having support from the Town of Goderich, the County of Huron, Alexandra Marine and General Hospital, Maitland Valley Medical Centre, and the Huron County Warden.

University of Guelph PhD Candidate Casandra Bryant delivered a poignant presentation, sharing insights from the research that validated and expressed the experiences of healthcare workers within the community. The event also featured a heartwarming gift and certificate presentation ceremony for all nominees, with gifts sourced locally to highlight the community’s appreciation.

Reflecting Gateway’s commitment to addressing community needs, this event not only acknowledged the hard work of healthcare workers throughout their careers but also provided a sense of unity during the uncertainty of the past few years.

Plans for future events have not been discussed, but the Gateway Team hopes that the recognition and celebration of these caring and compassionate individuals will continue to inspire everyone in rural communities.

If you see a healthcare worker, or know a health care worker, the Gateway Team encourages you to thank them for their ongoing efforts, dedication, and support of their local community.

OWL PROWL ONE NIGHT ONLY AT MORRISON DAM

The Owl Prowl is returning to Morrison Dam Conservation Area, east of Exeter, for one special night. The 2023 Owl Prowl will take place on Friday, Oct. 27.

The first of the two Owl Prowls will take place from 5:30-7 p.m. The second Owl Prowl that evening will happen from 7:30-9 p.m.

Morrison Dam Conservation Area (MDCA) is located at 71108 Morrison Line, RR 3 Exeter. It is 2 km east of Exeter and just south of Hwy 83.

Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority (ABCA)  is hosting the event. People interested in participating need to register ahead of time to attend. Registration is free but organizers encourage donations to Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation (ABCF) in support of Foundation programming.

Cassie Greidanus is the Conservation Education Coordinator with ABCA. She has five years of experience leading night hikes.

She invites you to “explore our nocturnal world, including owls and other nocturnal species of Ontario.” She invites people registered for the event to ” …be prepared to learn all about the nightlife happening when we are normally tucked into bed…” and to ” …discover the adaptations of our owls and the creatures with which they co-exist.”

The Owl Prowl gives people a way to be active in nature, listen for owls, learn about local animals that are active at night, and to show their support for conservation education, according to Greidanus.

“This event is possible thanks to the donations by those taking part,” she said. “That generous support raises money to support conservation education programs for the next year.”

To find out more visit the ABCA: events page Events Page or contact Greidanus on the: Staff Contact Page. by email at cgreidanus@abca.ca or by phone at 519 235-2610, or toll-free 1-888-286-2610, Ext. 262.

To register for the Owl Prowl, register now, on Zeffy: Owl Prowl 2023.

There is only one Owl Prowl evening this year so organizers are making it possible for up to 75 people to attend each session. There are no live owls at the event this year.

The Owl Prowl rain date is Saturday, Oct. 28.

Owls are incredible creatures of the night. Over the years, hundreds of people have learned about owls and their amazing nocturnal adaptations at the annual Owl Prowl.

The Owl Prowl is possible thanks to the support of ABCF, and its donors and community supporters, and the support of ABCA and its member municipalities.

NEW VIDEO TO ASSIST PRIVATE WELL OWNERS

Doug Hocking (Submitted photo)

Owners of private wells are responsible for protecting their drinking water source to keep their families, friends, guests, and neighbors safe. Whether you have a drilled, shallow or shared well, a new video offers “practical and easy-to-implement” ideas to protect your well water.

The “Your Well, Your Responsibility” video is hosted by Doug Hocking, property owner representative on the Ausable Bayfield Maitland Valley Drinking Water Source Protection Committee (SPC). Before retirement, he worked for more than 30 years in water quality stewardship at Maitland Valley and Ausable Bayfield conservation authorities. In his career, he worked in close partnership with many property owners including agricultural producers, shoreline residents, and other urban and rural landowners.

The new Your Well, Your Responsibility video includes the idea of creating a protection zone, around your private well, of at least 15 metres. (Municipal wells have a 100-metre wellhead protection area around them). Well owners are encouraged to look at anything in that area that could contaminate their water if located too close to the well. This could include animal waste, composters, faulty septic systems, or brush piles – among others. The video also discusses “simple and economical” ideas for containing fuel, chemicals or paint so that they don’t accidentally spill and leak into the ground. There is information on water sampling and testing, where to get well records, and well and septic system maintenance.

Matt Pearson is the local SPC Chair.

“Our committee is promoting best practices, for private wells, through public education like this video,” he said. “We are also organizing community Water Wise water sampling events, hosted by local service groups and residents, to encourage positive action by well owners to protect their water.”

Unlike residents on municipal water services, where water is tested and monitored daily, private well owners are responsible for ensuring their own drinking water quality.

The Your Well, Your Responsibility video is the eleventh in a series of videos featuring SPC members on a wide range of water topics. The series includes behind-the-scenes tours of water facilities. The 11 videos have received more than 28,000 views on YouTube and Facebook.

“Whether you have lived here all your life, or you are new to our area, the videos provide interesting and helpful information,” according to the SPC Chair.

The new video: Your Well, Your Responsibility  is available on YouTube. To learn more, visit the local drinking water source protection web page: Best Practices.

PARK THEATRE HOSTS LIVERY FILM FEST

This fall, the Livery will be showing Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) movies at the Park Theatre on The Square in Goderich.

On Thursday, Oct. 19 the next film in the Livery Film Fest line-up will be shown.  “You Hurt My Feelings” stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld, Veep) with Tobias Menzies (The Crown). Also featured are Amber Tamblyn and David Cross.

In the film, a novelist’s long-standing marriage suddenly turns upside down when she overhears her husband give his honest reaction to her latest book.  Reviewers call it “Smart, funny and entertaining.” It has a 94 per cent rating on Rotten Tomatoes!

Then on Nov. 9, “Past Lives” will be presented. This romance follows the relationship of childhood friends over 24 years as they grow apart and live different lives. It has a 97 per cent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and has been universally praised.

For both films the Box Office will open at 6:30 p.m., with the movie starting at 7 p.m.  Tickets are $12, or $8 for Livery members.

For more information please email rob@rmcauley.ca.