Locally Owned and Operated | June 2023 | Complimentary Issue | No. 204 TheVoiceofWasagaBeachSince2010 Delivered to every active mailbox in town. WeareInclusive!areInclusive! We Welcome Everyone Back to The Beach! Our town has been welcoming visitors to our beloved sandy shoreline for well over a century, and we have a history of making people happy. Providing a fun and welcoming environment for our valued visitors and residents, comes with a responsibility to show the enforcement of rules that are meant to keep everyone safe and happy. We are pleased with the ongoing communications between Huronia West OPP, Wasaga Beach Fire Department, Wasaga Beach Provincial Park & the town's Municipal Bylaw Department, and in the visibility of patrols and enforcement at our busy beachfront, resulting in a fun & carefree day at the beach for many. The cooperation between the 4 agencies is rewarding for everyone. As our Main Beach has returned to the welcoming place it should be, Beach BOOSTER thanks everyone involved for cooperation & the working together to keep the smiles coming to the World's Longest Freshwater Beach! HAPPY SUMMER! Photo by Beach BOOSTER Media Group We thank all involved in making this group photo possible. (l-r) Deputy Fire Chief Dan Bell, Fire Chief Craig Williams, Inspector Leah Gilfoy, Acting Sergeant Claude Duguay, Councillors Faye Ego & Joe Belanger, Mayor Brian Smith, Deputy Mayor Tanya Snell, Councillors Ellen Timms & Sasha-Rose Dileo, Ontario Parks Operations Technician Oakley Hockley, Staff Sergeant Kevin Convey, PC Ryan Smith, PC Mike Tuck, Municipal Law Enforcement & Property Standards Officer Rachael Ivak & Municipal Law Enforcement & Property Standards Officer Jackson Winchester. Canda Day EVENTS Special Pull-Out Schedule Centre Spread Page 9 Canda Day EVENTS Special Pull-Out Schedule Centre Spread Page 9
Brown Baggers in the Beach Meeting of Alcoholics
Anonymous
Date: Tuesdays at 7pm & Thursdays at 12pm Location: United Church, 380 Zoo Park Road
For more information contact 416-829-8259 or email Francine0464@rogers.com. Visit website at https://brownbaggerssecularaa.com
Wasaga Beach Parkinson's Support Group
Date: 1st Thursday of each month
12:30 – 2:00 pm
Location: Wasaga Beach Public Library, Meeting Room. All Parkinson's patients & caregivers welcome.
For more information contact Phil Bender 905-703-6248 or bender.philip@gmail.com
The Georgian Bay Photography Club nd
Dates: meets every 2 Thursday of the month via Zoom
Location: Zoom meeting – register by Zoom link
GBPC promotes the appreciation & enjoyment of photography, providing an opportunity for photographers to meet & exchange ideas, exhibit their work & advance their skills. For more info please email:communications@gbpc.ca
The (Men's) PROBUS Club of Wasaga Beach
Date: 2nd Thursday of each month
9:30 am – noon
Location: Wasaga Beach RecPlex
Social club for retired or semi-retired men of all walks of life meet for coffee, meetings & guest speakers. Nonfundraising. Non-political. Non-sectarian. Sponsor quests welcome. Contact Rick at 705-351-2096.
Beachcombers PROBUS of Wasaga Beach
st Date: Every 1 Tuesday of the month 10:00 am
Location: Wasaga Beach Recplex
1724 Mosley Street
Regular meetings for retired and semiretired people who value & appreciate opportunities to meet others, enjoy hearing Guest Speakers & attending interest groups, visit places & organizations.
For information please email: newsletter@beachcombersprobus.com
Georgian Bay Coin & Stamp Club
Date: 3rd Thursday of each month
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Prime Time Club, (RecPlex)
1724 Mosley St.
Please come & join us. For more info: www.geobaycoinstampclub.com
Wasaga Classics Slo-Pitch
Baseball
Date: Thursdays – Starting May 18 –September 14 – 9:00 am
Location: Klondike Park, Wasaga Beach
Looking for players! Mixed 60 and over fun league every Thursday at Klondike Park. Call Hardy at 705-7181152
Seniors Information & Active
Living Expo 2023
Date: Wednesday June 21 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Location: Wasaga Beach RecPlex Many displays including from the Wasaga Beach Archives
Wasaga Beach Archives – Guided Tour
Date: Thursday June 29 11:00 am & 1:00 pm
Register at: archiveco@wasagabeach.com or call (705) 300-0203
Wasaga Waterfront Festival
Date: Father's Day Weekend – June 17 & 18 – Starts at 10:00 am.
Location: Main Beach
Awesome family fun. Kite Fest, Sandcastle Building Exhibits & Beach Games. Live Music all Sunday!
Wasaga Beach Cruiser Fun Run 2023
Date: Fri June 23 & Sat June 24
Location: Wasaga Sports Park, 1888 Klondike Park Rd.
See story on Page 4 of this issue.
Canada Day
Date: Saturday July 1st
Location: Main Beach
See Special 'Pull Out Schedule' in this issue!
NewWhistleblowerPolicy andProcedurefor TownEmployees
The Town of Wasaga Beach demonstrated ground breaking municipal leadership by establishing a new robust Whistleblower Policy & Procedure for town employees. If any member of our Town Team has serious concerns of wrong doing or waste of taxpayers' money, they now have a safe & secure process to report matters without fear of reprisal.
Councillor Joe Belanger has long advocated for this, but the previous council was reluctant to approve this robust of a Whistleblower policy. The newly elected council has now moved forward with a decision to use an independent third-party to handle 'Whistleblower' complaints, and also offer an easy method for Town of Wasaga Beach employees to convey their concerns.
At a recent council meeting, Councillor Belanger said; “I believe the policy being brought forward has Wasaga Beach taking a leadership role when it comes to protecting our town team and also protecting our residents from the negative th financial impacts of potential mismanagement or wrong doing”. At the May 25 meeting, council approved with a unanimous vote this important change in the policy.
Fit4Duty, an independent company, will take over the administration of the town's 'Whistleblower Policy' on a one year contract. In addition, a hot-line will be set up as a proactive mechanism to ensure that Whistleblowers have a safe and secure process to report any matters of serious wrongdoing or waste of resources, without fear of reprisal.
The chosen company, Fit4Duty, was founded by now Wasaga Beach resident Kelly Donovan, a former Waterloo Regional Police Service officer, who received an award in 2019 from the Ontario Civil Liberties Association for her “honourable and persistent efforts to report bias or arbitrariness of disciplinary measures against police officers”.
Town staff will proceed to distribute the updated version of the policy and hot-line information to all employees, independent contractors, students and volunteers and incorporate it into the onboarding process for new staff joining the Town.
Joe Bickerstaff
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OurMainBeach TheWayItShouldBe!
WasagaArtists50th AnniversaryArtShow &SaleaHugeSuccess!
A small group of of artists back in 1973 decided to form a club when Wasaga Beach was just a small village. Today the membership has increased to 70 members in the Town of Wasaga Beach!
Wasaga Artist President Earlene Martin welcomes th all to the 50 Anniversary
Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group
Over 220 cars rolled onto Beach Drive to be on display as people strolled with cameras and phones capturing the beauty of these classic vehicles. The now iconic WASAGA sign is sure to be seen in car photos shared around the world.
A lucky winner at the event won $700.00, that was generously handed back to be added to the fundraising totals that reached approximately $1,400.00.
Mayor Brian Smith walked the active beachfront, meeting and greeting all who were so happy to be a part of the fun, and he proudly displayed his beautifully restored and customized 1959 Chevy Pickup, that was awarded the Wasaga Beach Cruisers 'Cool Ride Award'
Thanks go out to all the club members who worked so hard to organize this great event, and to the town's Special Events team that made it happen.
Monday Night Cruise Nights will be returning to their regular spot, Cruiser Corner at the Stonebridge Town Centre, but I'm sure there are plans for some more fun on Beach Drive throughout the summer.
Wasaga Beach, a town that was BUILT on FUN. Well... it's BACK!
Joe Bickerstaff
Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group
The Anniversary Art Show offered a variety of original artwork at 26 booths and 28 talented artists, as well as a slide show in the morning creatively designed by Ian Young (CCI graphic artist student). The Tom Zinn Band, (also a Wasaga Artist & musician) along with his wife & 3 daughters on vocals, provided live musical entertainment. What an amazing talented family!
Special guest Mayor Brian Smith gave a wonderful welcome speech highlighting the importance the arts in our Community and how it brings people together, making for a vibrant Town. Mayor Smith presented Wasaga Artists with A 50th Anniversary Certificate. Councillors Joe Belanger, Ellen Timms and Faye Ego came to support our artists and everyone enjoyed our 50th Anniversary Cake, provided by Foodland Wasaga Beach along with coffee in the afternoon.
Special thanks to Joe Bickerstaff, owner of “the beach BOOSTER “ who provided advertising in two issues in addition to co-coordinating with Nicole King on CTV news. 100 plus visitors came to enjoy the show!!
Many thanks to Wasaga Artists & their families who assisted to ensure the show was a success!!
Earlene Martin, President of Wasaga Artists, 2018-2023
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th Wasaga Artists celebrating their 50 Anniversary with Mayor Brian Smith & members of council.
Earlene Martin, Wasaga Artists President cuts the Anniversary Cake with Mayor Smith 5
th On Monday June 5 , The Wasaga Beach Cruisers held their regular 'Monday Cruise Night' on the re-opened Beach Drive for the first time. 'The Strip' was busy and full of good vibes, great music, happiness and FUN!
The Fun Run
It's June already. Winter is becoming a faint memory and Wasaga Beach Cruisers’ members are going to be very busy this season. Our Event Coordinator has done it again with a great list of outings to come and it's going to be a great ride. See where we’ve been, and what’s next below. Let the Fun begin!
Saturday May 13
The Club tour of 5 Seniors Homes in the area. It's amazing to be apart of the drive that can give so many people smiles and fond memories. A great tour with members finishing at The Match Restaurant for dinner.
Opening night at Cruisers Corners the Gate Keeper and crew packed them in. Great start to the season. Fabulous display of vintage rides. The following Monday was Crown Vicky night. Sweet rides abound and another full house.
Saturday May 27
Lilac tour a great day travelling the countryside, you could smell the Lilacs as we had lunch at Primrose Corners and leisurely tour home.
Sunday May 28
The Cruiser's came out in support of Georgian Triangle Hospice Hike & Bike fundraiser in Collingwood. A major success for them and we were glad to help.
Saturday June 3
The Cruiser's set out to the Midland High School in full support of their Fund raiser and yes, we did have a Pot Luck dinner. (Yeah, you missed it.) What fabulous way to end the day. Many thanks to our pot luck hosts Charlene and Norm.
ONE WEEK AWAY!
The Wasaga Beach Cruisers annual big event The Fun Run happens. Starting on Friday June 23 there is the Poker Run at Klondike Park and all are welcome, 2:30 P. M. start. A great afternoon to be had with your friends and play your best hand. Come out drive the route and come back for dinner supplied by Napoleon Home Comfort. Dinner is included with Poker Run ticket purchase per person. After dinner all are invited to cruise the beach for sunset viewing.
Saturday is our big show with over 450 vehicles last year, this year is sure to be a bigger display of unique vehicles. Come and see great vehicles on display. Feast at one of the food trucks. Check out the vendors of goods for sale. Enjoy the music of DJ “The Wolfman” Charlie and I believe Elvis is going to be in the building Mr. Terry Chislom.
Have fun everyone. It's going to be a 'blast from the past.'
SERIOUS NOTE: Please, drive respectfully when coming to any of our events and gatherings follow the parking attendants directions.
Until next time...
The Wasaga Beach Corvette Club hosted its annual Spring Fling Corvette Car Show on a recent Sunday at the Stonebridge Town Centre on Main Street, Wasaga Beach. On this beautiful sunny, warm day, 140 Corvettes from all over Ontario were on display. Cars ranged from a classic candy apple red 1957 roadster to a 2022 convertible.
Corvette owners had the opportunity to show off their prize possessions, either for others to view, or for trained judges to evaluate in the categories of Concours Prepared (open hood) or Show and Shine (closed hood) in the hopes of earning a nd 1st or 2 place trophy in their class. The Best is Show trophy was presented to an immaculate 1972 target blue convertible.
Above and beyond having the opportunity to look at the amazing cars, participants and the general public enjoyed live entertainment by The Wasaga Beats, The Beach 1 Band and The Armadillos.
Delicious barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers were for sale as well as pop and water. The Wasaga Beach Corvette Club held a chance auction with items and gift baskets donated by local businesses. A very successful 50/50 draw provided a lucky winner with $797.00. Proceeds raised at the Spring Fling are donated to local charities.
The Wasaga Beach Corvette Club would like to thank its sponsors for their donations, Stonebridge Town Centre for the venue, and The Town of Wasaga Beach for the stage, tent, chairs, and tables.
Beach BOOSTER Media Group was a proud sponsor of this event. We are looking forward to our next Spring Fling in 2024.
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Corvette Club presents another successful show
Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group
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Join us monthly, in person at the Stonebridge Art Gallery, or remotely via zoom, for conversations about Real Estate & Wasaga Beach community matters.
Hosted by Wasaga Beach resident, mortgage broker & musician David Grossman, Around The Piano is an interactive broadcast that literally takes place around a grand piano at the Stonebridge Art Gallery in Wasaga Beach.
To watch past episodes or to register to attend future episodes, go to www.ALLTalkTV.com.
Canadian Air&Space Conservancy Museumjust Minutesfrom WasagaBeach
Learn about the story of the Avro Arrow, from its inception to its tragic demise, while exploring many other exhibits and artifacts on display
The Avro Arrow is an iconic aircraft that has played an important role in Canada's aviation history. Built in the 1950s by A.V. Roe (Avro) Canada, it was the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world at the time. The Canadian Air and Space Conservancy Museum now houses the only full-size replica of the Avro Arrow, along with other aviation-related artifacts.
In the 1950s, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) was searching for a Mach 2 interceptor that could fly at 50,000 feet. The Avro Arrow was designed to meet these specifications, and it was powered by an all-Canadian engine called the Orenda Iroquois PS13. However, the project was cancelled in 1957, and only five planes were equipped with Pratt and Whitney J75 engines for flight testing.
On its first test flight, the Arrow broke four world speed records and recorded a top speed of Mach 1.98 at 50,000 feet on the 14th flight. Once fitted with the lighter and more powerful Iroquois engines, projections were that the plane could easily exceed Mach 2 at 60,000 feet or more. The Avro Arrow's innovative technology was ahead of its time, and much of it is still used today by other manufacturers around the world.
Tuesday May 30th was a special edition of Around The Piano as Wasaga Beach's Mayor Brian Smith participated in an open forum “Ask The Mayor” segment with Q&A from Wasaga Beach residents. The Mayor answered questions about population growth in the town, infrastructure, the beachfront development as well as general commercial development in the town. There will be a new entertainment area at the beach this summer and there are many great events lined up, to make for a fun and exciting summer in Wasaga Beach.
th
Other items noted by the Mayor for the month of June include the 75 Anniversary of the Wasaga Beach Fire Department on June 3rd. June is also Senior's Month with the Senior's Expo happening in Wasaga Beach at the th RecPlex on June 21. Wasaga Artist's just celebrated their 50 Anniversary too.
Wasaga Beach resident Andrew Brennan from Palm Tree Capital talked about how he grew a real estate portfolio of over a thousand doors, worth more than $200M, working with joint venture partners. Andrew started out renovating small properties, and eventually started investing in larger, multi family apartment buildings. Andrew talked about the investing process and how investors/joint venture partners can work with Palm Tree Capital to earn returns.
Wendy Donnelly, a law clerk from Julia Bradley Law Office, and also a Program Administer with real estate agent Rob Hutchison from Century 21 In Studio Realty, talked about wills and why it's a good idea to out source the role of Will Executor to a trusted third party like an experienced lawyer, to avoid family conflict. Wendy also spoke about Rob Hutchison's MVP program where real estate clients can obtain, among many value added services, a complimentary initial will consultation.
David Grossman, event host and mortgage broker, talked about taking equity out of your property, some of the good reasons why people take equity out of their properties and a variety of methods to access that equity including using a traditional mortgage, self employed mortgage, net worth mortgage, reverse mortgage and more. David also demonstrated how getting a reverse allows people to enjoy living in their homes longer, without having the equity in their property erode over time, even when you don't make mortgage payments and interest accrues over the long term. David has 19 years experience arranging mortgages.
For more information, call David Grossman at 416-876-2031.
Beach BOOSTER Media Group is a proud sponsor of 'Around the Piano'.
Despite its promising start, the Avro Arrow's flying career was cut short after only 66 flights over an 11month period. On February 20, 1959, the Canadian government terminated the entire program and put approximately 25,000 people out of work. Many of the employees found jobs at NASA and aircraft manufacturers in the United States and Britain. This move was controversial and caused a great deal of public outcry, and it has been the subject of numerous books and documentaries.
The Canadian Air and Space Conservancy Museum, formerly located at Downsview, has since moved to the Edenvale Aerodrome. The museum's exhibits include the only full-size replica of the Avro Arrow, a 1942 DeHavilland Tiger Moth, a 1969 Kiowa helicopter, a Rolls Royce Merlin engine from a Lancaster bomber, and many other artifacts. There is also a gift shop stocked with Avro Arrow-related merchandise for sale.
The museum offers guided tours every Wednesday through Friday at 2:00 pm, and each tour lasts approximately one hour. Visitors can learn about the story of the Avro Arrow, from its inception to its tragic demise, and the impact it had on Canadian aviation history. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the Avro Arrow and its significance in Canada's history.
The Edenvale Aerodrome is conveniently located at 5195 Highway 26 East, just minutes from Wasaga Beach. Visitors can plan a day trip to the museum and explore the surrounding area, which offers many outdoor activities and attractions.
In conclusion, the Avro Arrow is a significant part of Canada's aviation history, and the Canadian Air and Space Conservancy Museum offers visitors the opportunity to learn about its story and see a full-size replica of the iconic aircraft. The guided tours are informative and engaging, and visitors can also explore the other exhibits and artifacts on display. Plan a visit to the museum and discover the legacy of the Avro Arrow for yourself.
The Canadian Air and Space Conservancy Museum is Proudly supported by Canadian Tire, Wasaga Beach
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Photos by Gordon Montgomery
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It was a fun filled Saturday at Fire Station One as the community gathered to learn, celebrate and thank our men and woman of the Wasaga Beach Fire Department, past and present.
All the doors were open and the and the parking areas full, as our town's firefighting equipment and rescue units were on display under the giant Maple Leaf flying from the towering 110 foot ladder of the aerial truck. Also joining with fun, with displays and information, were the Simcoe County Paramedics, OPP & Air Cadets.
Kids of all ages enjoyed the interactive displays, the trying on of the firefighting gear, wearing the free hats distributed and aiming the fire hoses at targets. Doors of the trucks and ATVs were opened and people climbed aboard the vehicles and jumped into the rescue boat on display. Along with historical memorabilia, the beautiful 1947 Pumper Truck was proudly displayed and available for people to enter.
All were fascinated by the 'extraction demonstrations held throughout the day, as many lined up as members of the department served up hot dogs and refreshments at the BBQ tent.
Deputy Chief Dan Bell introduced the speakers who told of the long 75 year history of the volunteer Fire Brigade that was formed in the village all those years ago. Chief Craig Williams gave a time line of how the department grew, as did the community that became a town in 1974. Mayor Brian Smith congratulated all associated with the department, past and present and reinforced our community pride in all who have and continue to serve.
Beach BOOSTER thanks all who organized this wonderful, interactive and fun community event and joins the entire town in congratulating our men and woman, past and present, of the Wasaga Beach Fire Department on their 75 years.
Joe Bickerstaff
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Photos by Beach bOOSTER Media Group
Current and retired members of the Wasaga Beach Fire Department are joined by Mayor Brian Smith, members of council
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RulesforFlyingthe NationalFlagofCanada
As so many of us are proud to display our “Maple Leaf”, there are certain protocols to follow
The manner in which flags may be displayed in Canada is not governed by legislation, but by established practice and convention. The etiquette outlined here is an adaptation of international usage and customs that the federal government has observed for many years. Given the important symbolism of flags, they should always be treated with respect.
The National Flag of Canada may be flown day and night and does not need to be lighted while flying after sundown.
Horizontally
and Vertically
When flown horizontally, the National Flag is flown with the maple leaf pointing upwards.
When hung vertically, the flag should be placed so that the upper part of the leaf points to the left, from the point of view of the observer facing the flag.
On a Flagpole
The National Flag will always be flown on its own flagpole, with the sleeve nearest to the pole. The canton should be placed in the position nearest the top of the flagpole mast or . It is improper to fly the National Flag with another flag, of any type, on the same flagpole.
Exterior permanent poles should be fitted with a hoisting device such as a halyard and pulley arrangement to enable the flags to be easily raised, lowered and halfmasted as required.
The length of the flagpole and the size of the flag for exterior permanent poles should proportionate. The proper dimensions & more information is available for the links provided.
When flying the National Flag where there are multiple poles, the National Flag should be in the centre if there are 3 poles, or if more than 3, it should be flown in the leftmost position as viewed from the main approach.
Editor's Note: Please see Digital Issue for links to more information as to the protocols for displaying our National Flag from www.beachBOOSTER.com/publications
This special memorial is located at River Road West and Veteran's Way is cared for by long time Wasaga Beach resident and former Public Works employee Mike Ambeau as steward of the park. On display is our National Flag, United Nations flag and the flag of NATO.
TheThing About Lightfoot
by David Schindler
This afternoon, I finally mustered up the courage to say "Hey Google. Play Gordon Lightfoot." It brought back a flood of memories. I first heard his music in the early '60s, sometime around grade nine, my first real exposure to what we used to call back then, “folk” music. Many of my new high school friends (mostly band geeks) had acoustic guitars, but shortly thereafter (and ever the creative thinker), I went out and bought a $50 banjo, in hopes of joining my buddies on "Canadian Railroad Trilogy" (especially the finale). I never got the hang of the banjo, but I did learn to strum, and we played Gord's (at that time limited) rep to death.
In addition to recognizing Peacekeepers & Veterans, the park also offers an opportunity to recognize and morn others, including the loss of firefighters, police and other first responders. Flags officially recognized to honour the loss of firefighters and police officers are known as Thin Blue Line (police) or Thin Red Line (firefighters), and will be displayed with respect in our Peacekeepers' Park, although separate from the other flags.
Editor's Note: Recently, not only one of the “recognition” flags mentioned above was removed from Peacekeepers' Park, but the temporary pole installed to display the flag was vandalized & sawed off. We understand this was probably done due to the misunderstanding of the true meaning of the flag, and that it is indeed a recognized display of loss. We hope this story helps create community awareness.
https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/flag-canadaetiquette/flying-rules/displaying-quick-reference.html
https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/flag-canadaetiquette/flying-rules.html#a4
As usual, I digress. Back to Google. As with a lot of artists - in retrospect we never realize until we listen back - our experience is filled with dozens and dozens and dozens of songs that we know and love and recognize and WOW, what a sumptuous walk through our own lives when we spend an hour listening.
Like a few other VERY special creators of music, Lightfoot never wavered from his vision. And that vision, totally original, simple but complete, remained as pure and clear as a mountain stream throughout his brilliant career. He never rocked, never rolled, and never discoed. He just kept the faith, and did what he did, and it shows - the very last record is every bit as fresh and original as the very first.
I cried a bit this afternoon, and I'm sure you did too. These days, it seems we live in a world of sound bites, crappy songs and VERY disposable music. This catalogue will still be around long after most of us are long gone, so let's not forget this great man too quickly. Canada has lost a true Poet Lauriat. Have a few minutes? Why not fire up Siri and have a listen to this wonderful body of work? You'll be glad you did.
David E. Schindler
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Three Flags at top of Historic Main Street by Bridge
Mike Ambeau at Peacekeepers’ Park
Two Flags - Red and Blue Line
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Media Group
Beach BOOSTER
Bullying is one of the most insidious problems facing many of our young people. It is challenging both to prevent and to stop once it starts. And it is nothing new. The word bully first entered our vocabulary five hundred years ago. Nowadays, bullying rears its ugly head in at least four different ways. The most prevalent version of bullying comes through teasing and name-calling (79%). As children, we were taught to respond with the following adage:
"Sticks and stones can break my bones, But names will never hurt me.”
Sticks and Stones
Canada's statistics on this matter are disconcerting to say the least. 64% of our students report being bullied at school with 12% saying that the bullying is a regular part of school life. It emerges as a problem in grade 6 and continues throughout middle school and into high school. A large majority of Canadian teachers assert that they have witnessed these attacks while 41% of teachers declare that they see this behaviour at least once a week. School statistics document the damage to students as ranging from physical injury to social and emotional distress, self-harm and death. The consequences of bullying are extremely harmful to our children: depression, anxiety, sleep difficulties, lower academic achievement, dropping out. Follow-up studies reveal that the suffering continues into adulthood for some who suffer from substance abuse and violence.
It felt good to have a response to the bully, but it was always untrue. The emotional damage caused by these verbal assaults can be more hurtful than the physical assaults. Today, bullies are also effective at starting rumours about their targets and working with surrogates to ostracize their victims (50%). Twenty-nine percent of children who report bullying have been physically attacked while twenty-five percent are the victims of cyberbullying.
Bullying is a worldwide problem. Most advanced countries have by now conducted extensive studies into bullying and are concerned enough about the problem to be implementing intervention strategies. Polling indicates that India has the most acute cyberbullying crisis with 38% of students reporting their negative experiences. Brazil is second with 29% while 26% of children in the United States complain that cyber-bullying is an issue for them.
FriendsinToronto?
The good news is that school intervention programs work to reduce the number of incidents and the harmful effects of bullying. The most effective programs are universal, likely because they motivate students of strong moral character to intervene when they witness incidents. This intervention of peers is by far the most dramatic action in deterring bullies and in strengthening victims. Mentoring programs and after school programs have also seen positive outcomes. Treatment programs for the victims as well as the perpetrators also work.
For the students of Wasaga Beach, proper school accommodations in their own community supported by social workers and mental health professionals based in our town would provide an immeasurable benefit.
If we truly care about our Beach Kids, we should work together to make this a reality. Beach Kids Matter!
Note: Your comments are appreciated. The column on the origins of the term “Beach Kids” elicited responses which confirmed my personal research and observations. Those were gratefully received. Every effort will be made to respond to your letters. (tochuckandrews@gmail.com)
One Day 'FUN-IN-THE-SUN' Bus Trip to The Beach Available
Parkbus introduced a new route that takes people from Yonge & Bloor in the heart of downtown Toronto, to the fun, sand and blue waters of Wasaga Beach.
For $115 round-trip, (students/seniors $104 & kids $58) or $75 one-way, travellers can board the bus on Sunday August 6th, at 7:30 a.m. and have a fun day in the sun from 9:30 a.m. till 3:00 p.m.
The trip is an hour and a half from Toronto and people on the return bus can make it back to the city around 6:00 p.m. on the same day.
Book a day trip to Wasaga Beach here: www.parkbus.ca/wasaga
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Lucky Loon
I had just confirmed plans with my friend and her daughter, packed the car and headed to see a nesting Barred Owl on April 20, 2023. As I got to the main road, I got bits of odd messages popping up on my screen…”Loon, your area, help”. It was 10:48 am and I pulled over to the side of the road to read the messages.
Oh goodness…change of plans and I messaged my friend. I ask for location and details as I head home to grab supplies. I might need: rubber fishing net, chest waders x2 (so I can maybe get help but one has a hole), blankets, an old cage (that was donated for moments like this) and my Kevlar gloves to help protect me from injury. I'm not really sure what I'm getting myself into but I want to help, and off I head.
A bit of back story about this loon; It was discovered 2 days ago by Barb, in a very small pond. A loon needs a long distance on water to take off and was unable to do so in this pond. Barb had no luck getting help from wildlife rescue until she got a hold of her friend Shayna, who contacted Ann, who knew I would help if in the area.
In under an hour of me getting the message I was on location assessing. Plan A out the window as it was way to deep for chest waders. Then Plan B was to use 2 of the neighbours' kayaks, but one was a kid kayak, the other a double kayak. We only had kid canoe paddles and once on the water we quickly decided this wasn't going to be successful. We didn't have any other ideas, so decided to clean up and try to get a rescue team.
It was bugging me that I didn't help the loon while I was sitting there trying to figure out the solution. So, to clear my mind I met up with my friend and we saw the owl, no babies yet. It was really bugging me, so on my way home I said I was going to stop by and try something, one more time. Barb's neighbours had seen it on land trying to find bigger water, so it could feed and also take off from.
A loon isn't meant to walk on land very far, if you watch my loon hatching video you can see how close the nest is to the water. The other thing is they need a lot of water to take off from, at least 90 feet to 1,320 feet. I had a plan that maybe I could help guide it to the bigger water if it wasn't injured.
Expressing Gratitude to Sponsors, Donors, and Participants of WBCAT Wine Pairing Event
At 5:36 pm I arrived back at the pond, and the loon was gone! I was told to look around and spotted it on the grass. I geared up, quickly and thought maybe I can grab it with my net even, and release it. At 5:41pm I sent the group a message, I had checked the loon out and released it in the big pond! It didn't put up much of a fight and I honestly think it said thank you, with it's call as it swam away. To watch this rescue and other exciting videos check my YouTube channel.
Until next time, Stay safe, have fun and enjoy the wildlife!
Jason George
Wasaga Beach Climate ActionTeam and Impact Wasaga Beach would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the generous and invaluable support of our sponsors, donors and participants for playing a pivotal role with their commitment in making our May 10 “Perfect Pairing Night” at theYammas Grill a resounding success, led byTed Crysler, Dip WSET of Bacchus Wine Academy
We would like to express our deepest appreciation to our sponsors, whose unwavering support enabled us to bring this exceptional event to fruition.Your contributions showcased your dedication to our community and allowed us to deliver an unforgettable experience to all attendees.
To our esteemed Grand Prize and Draw Prizes donors, we extend our sincerest thanks for your generous contributions enabling us to raise vital funds, which will be directed towards meaningful climate action initiatives that will benefit our town and its residents.
Let us share a few quotes from our sponsors or donors:
“We sponsored the Wasaga Beach Climate Action Team because it would appear that action at the grass roots level actually drives the solution set further and faster than waiting for big business and governments to move the needle.” Kenn Voss, CanadianTire Wasaga Beach.
“I chose to sponsor because I believe together we all can make a difference and I know Kathleen and the amazing Climate Action Team will get positive results. ” Rob Hutchison, Century 21 In-Studio Realty
“Climate Change is affecting the food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the weather we experience, everyone should be educated and do their part to help.” Christine Kuprati, RaeDan Freight Services.
“We donated to your fundraiser because we truly believe education and awareness is the fundamental principle for positive change.” Amanda Mazzotta, Shaka
Wasaga
“Stonebridge Building Group supports the WBCAT's vision of a sustainable, thriving, and equitable community that is resilient to the impacts of a changing climate and understands that while everyone has a role to play, the future of people and the planet rely on the business community to take decisive climate action.” Mark Crowe, Stonebridge Building Group.
We also want to congratulate and thank the town elected officials, business owners, and influential members of our community who attended and enjoyed the wine pairing event.Your presence, enthusiasm, and eagerness to engage made the evening truly special.
In conclusion, based on the success and at general request, we will make this event an annual in a larger venue, and we look forward to continuing our collaborative endeavours to foster environmental and climate actions within our town.
Engage with Wasaga Beach ClimateActionTeam wasagabeachclimateaction.com/ info@wasagabeachclimateaction.com
www beach B O O S T E R com 03 14
Iron Bridge Route
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 35 km
Start: Wasaga Beach
RecPlex – 1724 Mosley St.
For a more scenic and rural ride, try the Iron Bridge Route. Known for being relatively flat except the small valley where iron Bridge is located, this route crosses the Nottawasaga River in three separate places along your 35km journey. At the halfway point you will travel through a cedar forest valley and cross a picturesque single lane Iron Bridge – a great place stop, take a picture and have a quick break before continuing on.
After you cross the bridge you climb out of the valley back into farmland then back towards the bay, then ride along the shore line through Wasaga Beach areas 1 and 2 and back to your starting point.
Make sure you check out all the beach excitement and beautiful views of Southern Georgian Bay at its finest while riding though Beaches 1 and 2.
See our Digital Issue for links to Maps and Elevations (www.beachbooster.com/publications)
Editor's Note: Shoreline roads near Wasaga Beach will be a busy during summer season. Tip, if you want to avoid the crowds and have the beach to yourself do this ride early in the morning.
Creators Can Win Big At The Library This Summer
If you prefer to tell stories with words and illustrations rather than photographs, the library is also hosting its annual Storybook Contest. Open to children and families of all ages, work individually or as a team to develop appealing characters, intriguing plots and eye-catching illustrations to create your masterpiece. There are four categories to enter and winners will receive a prize AND have a printed book to take home. Winning entries will also be immortalized in the library's permanent collection. Entries must be submitted by August 31, 2023 to qualify. If you're interested in entering these amazing contests visit the library's website at www.wasagabeachpubliclibrary.ca and look for the banner on the home page to learn more about contest details, rules and regulations.
If you love the creative process and are looking for an opportunity to embrace your inner Ansel Adams or Dr. Seuss, the library has two contests that can help provide the spark you need to get started this summer. Residents have the opportunity to win prizes PLUS a chance to have their winning works featured in the new library when it opens this fall.
The Wonders of Wasaga Photo Contest gives local shutterbugs an opportunity to shoot outside the box and capture our amazing town in stills. There are four categories to enter:
1. People of the Beach: shoot unique portraits or candid shots of people in our neighbourhoods.
2. The Great Outdoors: focus on landscapes, beachscapes, or other photos of our natural environment.
3. Wasaga Pets & Wildlife: share photos of creatures big or small that live in our community.
4. Action & Adventure: capture amazing images of living life to the fullest in Wasaga Beach.
Winning photos and honourable mentions in each category will be enlarged and showcased in the new Wasaga Beach Public Library when it opens later this year. Winning entries will also receive a prize package valued at $250. Submissions will be accepted until September 30, 2023.
But wait…there is one last opportunity to win at the library this summer! Stop by the Bookmobile and pick up a colouring contest sheet to enter the monthly draw. You can find the Bookmobile throughout town this summer at locations including the Klondike Sports Park, the Farmers Market and more. Check out the library on social media or visit their website to find where you can find the Bookmobile and enter.
Want to know more?
Kyle Young Community Relations Assistant 705.429.5481 x2406
www beach B O O S T E R com 03 15 I N T H E B E A C H CYCLING
CYCLING
by Georgian Bay Recreation 707 River Road West, Wasaga Beach (in the Foodland Plaza)
Design by Beach BOOSTER Media Group
Sponsored
Bacon Onion and Cheese Quiche with a Crisp Seasonal Salad
Capture the essence of summer with this delightful combination of flavours and textures. Quiche really is an elegant and satisfying decadence, and is perfect for a light meal on the patio or a formal luncheon at the Coronation. Complete this creamy dish with a crisp seasonal salad.
4 oz of Bacon diced and cooked
1 Cup of onions diced and cooked
6 large eggs
2 1/2 cup milk
1 cup of smoked cheddar cheese
2 oz Monterey Jack cheese
1 pie crust
1/4 tsp salt and a bit of pepper
1/4 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp sage
To make the pie crust you will need
1 1/2 cups of flour
4 oz of fat ( lard, shortening, butter, or margarine)
2 oz of cold water
Knead the flour and fat until it looks crummy. Add the cold water and form into a ball. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes. Divide in two and roll one half out to line a 10 inch pie plate. Dock the crust with a fork, line the crust with a piece of tinfoil. Put in about a cup of beans or pie stones to weigh it down and bake blind for 25 minutes. (Alternatively buy a pie crust and dock it and blind bake it for about 15 min)
Line the bottom of the crust with the cheese and the cooked bacon and onion.
In a bowl combine all other ingredients and pour into the blind baked pie shell
Bake at 350 degrees in the center rack of your oven until a pick inserted into the center comes out clean about 45 minutes.
Seasonal Salad
One English Cucumber
Baby greens or baby Arugula
Cherry tomatoes
Dried cranberries
Sliced red onion
Toasted pecans or walnuts – microwave 90 seconds in small dish to toast nicely or in a sautee pan.
Feta or goat cheese crumbled.
With a vegetable peeler, carefully make thin strips the length of the entire cucumber. When you form it into the round it must overlap itself by at least an inch so it will stick together.
Toss the baby greens with the Strawberry Vinaigrette – fill your cucumber bowl, top with the onions nuts Feta cheese and dried fruit.
Strawberry Vinaigrette
8 ounces (227 gr ) frozen strawberries
2 tablespoons ( honey
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Blend strawberries, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper together in a blender until smooth.
www beach B O O S T E R com 03
The Huronia West OPP is excited for the upcoming summer here in The Beach. There are so many fun family events that have been planned for all to enjoy. I would like to remind all residents and visitors who plan on going to enjoy our World's Longest Freshwater Beach, of the following drowning prevention advice from the Lifesaving Society:
· Supervise children. 'If you are not within arms' reach you have gone to far.’
· Always wear a life-jacket when you are in a boat or participating in water activities.
· Learn to swim. Could you survive a sudden and unexpected fall into the water?
· Stay sober
· Open Water Safety Make smart choices before going in, on or around the water.
· Just Keep Learning. You can save a life. Yours and someone else's. Take a learn-toswim, lifesaving, or first-aid class.
More information at www.lifesavingsociety.com
Have a fun and safe Canada Day!
Wasaga Beach Edged Out in Inaugural Season Opener
Wasaga Beach men's soccer team kicked off their new Huronia District Soccer League campaign with a narrow 3-1 loss to Alliston United
Wasaga Beach Men's Team: L. Pearce, B. Howley, M., Franceschini, J. Fawcett, R. Davies, J. Mullins, S. MacDonald, S. Gott, D. Emery,A. Little, K. Swinwood-Sky. Subs: L. Pankhurst, C. Brittain, T. Stableforth.
After a shortened pre-season, Wasaga's new men's side got off to a slow start in Alliston as the Blues fell two goals behind inside 30 minutes from a near-post header off a corner and an own goal. However, with new substitutes implemented midway through the half, Wasaga gradually got themselves back into the game with captain Jeff Fawcett, Tristen Stableforth and Jim Mullins all coming close just before the half-time whistle.
In the second period, Wasaga continued to build upon their first-half pressure and made it 2-1. An inviting back-post corner from Scott MacDonald was headed across goal by Fawcett which allowed Player-Manager Lea Pankhurst to fire home from close range. With the deficit reduced to one, Wasaga marched forward. Stableforth and Kale Swinwood-Sky came agonizingly close to completing the comeback but were stifled by several last-ditch tackles. But Wasaga were left to rue their missed chances with ten minutes to play as Alliston grabbed a goal against the run of play to take a 3-1 victory on the opening day.
After the game, goal scorer and Player-Manager Pankhurst emphasized his team's performance despite the defeat: “It was a great first performance and the score didn't do the team justice. We started slow but the team grew into the game and as it was everyone's first time playing together so it will take time to gel. There were some really impressive individual performances and I'm looking forward to the next game and the rest of the season. Lots of great soccer to come from this team.”
Wasaga Beach Mens will play at Klondike Sports Park throughout the summer and admission is free. For more information on their schedule, visit hdsl.e2esoccer.com/Games_Schedules.aspx
See Digital Issue for links to more information (www.beachbooster.com/publications)
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THE LATEST SPORT STORIES IN THE GEORGIAN BAY REGION Ryan Davies
IgotpulledoveragainasI circledBeachDrive.Thecop said"I'mgoingtoneedtosee yourlicenseandregistration."I said"Youguysseriouslyneedto getagrip.Onedayyoutakemy licenseandthenextdayyouask toseeit.”
Youdropsomethingwhenyou wereyounger,youjustpickitup. Whenyou'reolderandyoudrop something,youstareatitfora bit,wonderingifyouactually needitanymore.
Ifsmokingmarijuanacauses short-termmemoryloss,what doessmokingmarijuanado?
Iboughtthisoldprisonbusand 50orangejumpsuits.NowIneed 50friendstoputthemonsowe cangotobusyMainBeach,then jumpoutandrunoff.
Sorry,ladywhoworksat th Timmy'satMosleyand45 drivethruinTheBeach.I thoughtyouhadasenseof humour…that'swhyIsaidmy coffeewas“togo”.
SomeoneinEgyptsentmeanemailaskingmetowirethem money.Ithinkitwasapyramid scheme.
Ithoughtgrowingoldwouldtake longer.
Giveapersonafishandyou feedthemforaday.Teacha persontousetheInternetand theywon'tbotheryoufor weeks,months,maybeyears.
Allofuscouldtakealesson fromtheweather.Itpaysno attentiontocriticism.
Don'tworryaboutoldage:it doesn'tlastthatlong.
Healthnutsaregoingtofeel stupidsomeday,lyinginthe hospital,dyingofnothing.
IftheNo.2Pencilisthemost popular….whyisitstillNo.2?
www beach B O O S T E R com 03 18 CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Fill in the so that every row, column and box contains the numbers 1 through 9
Community ad space provided by Beach BOOSTER Media Group
Mike Miller is a real "Beach Guy", growing up in Wasaga Beach with deep family roots in the area. Mike’s a collector & custodian of news stories, videos & photos of our long & rich history. Follow Mike’s “Memories of my Town - Wasaga Beach” page on Facebook.
Editor's Note:
Two stories published in January 1990 about the then, long delayed transfer of the properties promised to the newly formed Town of Wasaga Beach in the 1970s from Mike's extensive collection.
Included in “the deal” was the important properties now known as Beach Area Two, the land that was to be developed under the original Downtown Master Plan from 2015. Interesting to see the comments from then Mayor Walter Borthwick (1990) about these important properties, saying “the town will begin immediately to shop around for an appropriate developer”, adding a “destination resort will go a long way toward rejuvenating Wasaga's central tourist area”.
In more recent years, prior to 2014, this town owned property was leased back to Ontario Parks to manage and operate as if it was part of the Provincial Park, as even since those promising comments from 1990, nothing has happened on this “key property” as Mayor Borthwick once called it.
www beach B O O S T E R com 03 19 LOCAL. local supporting Locally Owned and Operated Drivers Wanted
www beach B O O S T E R com 03