beach BOOSTER #205 - July 2023

Bienvenue!

Depuis des générations, Wasaga Beach est heureuse d'accueillir ses visiteurs et, encore cette année, nous reconnaissons nos précieux invités du Québec: nous tous à Wasaga Beach tenons à remercier nos amis et aux familles du Québec pour votre soutien. Soyez assurés qu'à chacune de vos prochaines visites dans notre communauté, nous continuerons à vous offrir de nouvelles activités et des attractions amusantes. Encore une fois, BIENVENUE à Wasaga Beach, la « plus longue plage d'eau douce du monde »!

JEEP FEST

Fills the Main Beach with Colour & Fun

Hundreds of registered Jeeps rolled into town, as many more came to take in the activities & entertainment

The inaugural Wasaga Jeep Fest took place at the Main th Beach on Saturday, July 8 , and as the day began under slightly cloudy skies, the hundreds of registered participants arrived in town, and converged onto to Beach Drive. Perhaps the numbers were a wee bit overwhelming for the organizers, as there was some traffic concerns as the lineup of traffic snarled some main streets, but this issue was resolved quickly with some changes to the registration process, and noted for future events.

As the skies cleared, 600 plus Jeeps rolled into their preregistered parking areas, & people quickly got into the fun, family friendly events. Music, vendors, beach games & Show & Shine competitions kept all participants busy, as did the impressive RTI Ramp demonstrations/competitions and the metal bending Car Crush event.

Non-Registered Jeep owners from all over came to enjoy the amazing vehicles and the fun events.

Event organizers told us; “A heartfelt thank you to all our registrants/participants, guests, volunteers, Honourably Mayor Brian Smith, Councillors, and the Special Events team of Wasaga Beach and all our sponsors and vendors for your support, dedication, and participation in Wasaga Jeep Fest 2023. This first ever event was a huge success, and all in support of The Living Wish Foundation”.

Beach BOOSTER Media Group was a proud sponsor of this inaugural event and we look forward to welcoming Wasaga Jeep Fest back to The Beach in 2024.

Joe Bickerstaff

Special Events at Main Beach All Summer Long!

See Town Pages (18, 19 & 20) in this issue for details of great events provided by The Town of Wasaga Beach.

Brown Baggers in the BeachMeeting 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

Location: Prime Time Club, (RecPlex)

1724 Mosley St.

Please come & join us. For more info: www.geobaycoinstampclub.com

Wasaga Beach Farmers Market

Date: Every Tuesday from 3 pm - 7 pm

Location: RecPlex, 1724 Mosley Street

The market runs until September 26th, bringing together local artisans, vendors and the entire Wasaga Beach community to celebrate all that makes this area so special.

Wasaga Classics Slo-Pitch Baseball

Date: Thursdays until 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 705-718-1152

Coffee at the Archives – Name that

Photo nd

Date: Saturday, July 22 - 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Location: Wasaga Beach Arhives, 140 Main Street

Help the Archives add more information to our collection of pictures. Do you recognize anyone? Do you remember names of cabins or cottages that once were here? Look at photos to put a name to a face or a place. Or bring a photo with you! Stop by the Town of Wasaga Beach Archives for a coffee!

Email: archives@wasagabeach.com or visit: wasagabeach.com/archivesPhone: 705-300-0203

LocalFarmers'Market BringsCommunityTogether

Although the Wasaga Beach Farmers' Market kicked off the 2023 season mid-June, recently the Mayor and council members joined lead organizers Marlene Parkins & Anthony Butcher, along with volunteers, to cut the ribbon at the “official opening”.

Every Tuesday afternoon/evening, many vendors set up to display and sell their local offerings, while local musicians keep everyone entertained. The market opens at 3:00 pm on Tuesdays and runs until 7:00 pm at the RecPlex (1724 Mosley Street)

We encourage all to come out each week to see and hear what's new and enjoy the local artisans, vendors to celebrate all that makes this area so special.

For more information, visit: www.wasagabeachfarersmarket.ca

Mayor Smith and council members help organizers and volunteers cut the ribbon.

Mayor Smith presents a certificate to Marlene Parkins of the Wasaga Beach Farmers' Market.

It'sBack...BiggerandBetter

The brand new Beach Bar boasts some of the best views in the world, while providing a fun & vibrant beachfront experience with great food, beverages and live entertainment.

The Canada Day Long Weekend proved to be one of the busiest in recent history for our Main Beach, and the residents and valued visitors who came to enjoy, were perhaps pleasantly surprised to see what was in store for them at our Main Beach.

The Beach Bar was hopping with excitement for their Grand Opening, with great entertainment provided for all who enjoyed the great community feel of this welcoming new space. A space that has sat vacant for many years, now provides a great Wasaga Beach experience for all who visit.

The friendly, helpful staff are also enjoying this new “fun in the sun” spot, and their enthusiasm shows. A local legend in the kitchen, Chef Jeff, is working his magic and providing some great food and is eager to be checking in with guests who are enjoying items from his creative menu.

Wasaga Beach Brewing Company owners Peter Wilkins and David Cubitt are “hands on” operators, greeting their many family and friends, while making so many new customers happy. Entertainment is the theme at the new Beach Bar, with great local artists from all

genres to be featured on the custom built “Beach 1 Stage”. “We couldn't be happier to be back and bigger than ever” Peter tells us, with David adding; “It's a time of excitement and enjoyment residents & visitors won't want to miss!”

We congratulate the entire team at the new Beach Bar on this exciting new addition to the World's Longest Freshwater Beach. Yes indeed, The Beach is BACK!

Joe Bickerstaff

RatepayersAssociationHasa FullHouseforInformativeMeeting

The Wasaga Beach Ratepayers Association held a public meeting st on June 21 , 2023 at the Marlwood Golf & Country Club with keynote speaker Andrew McNeill, CAO Town of Wasaga Beach.

We would like to thank Andrew for his excellent presentation and his openness to answering the many questions from the audience.

Thank you to all current/new members for attending, and also Mayor Brian Smith, Councillor Faye Ego and Councillor Joe Belanger.

Paid members - stay tuned for a video of the meeting sent directly to your email later this month.

It's not too late to renew your membership or join online @ www.wasagaratepayers.com

Wasaga Beach Ratepayers Association

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Median Group

Wasaga Beach Cruisers' Fun Run 2023

Amazing volunteers make the annual event a huge success!

After-HoursHealthClinic WouldBenefitWasagaBeach &SurroundingCommunities

At the Council th Meeting of June 29 , Council of the Town of Wasaga Beach directed staff to move forward with plans to establish a community health centre and after-hours clinic, and to fund it using the municipal portion of proceeds from the local OLG Playtime casino.

“Wasaga Beach is in need of physicians and nurse practitioners to accommodate the number of families in our community without access to a family doctor or routine, preventative health care services,” said Mayor Brian Smith. “Residents have spoken clearly and consistently on the need for a Wasaga Beach based medical and after hours clinic and that is why this is one of Council's top priorities.”

“This Council believes that the proceeds of our local casino must be used for projects that will build a more resilient Wasaga Beach, build capacity in our community, and benefit the long-term health and well-being of our people and local economy,” added Smith. “Using the proceeds from the town's casino revenue to create a much-needed health centre and afterhours clinic ticks off all these boxes. The benefits of this project will extend beyond Wasaga Beach and support the health and well-being of our friends and families in neighbouring communities, including Collingwood, Clearview and Springwater Townships.”

The proposed Medical Centre and After Hours Clinic will be a fully equipped, turnkey medical office.

A plan to operate the health centre and after-hours clinic is being developed in discussion and cooperation with leadership at the Georgian Bay Family Health Organization. The Town would provide administrative staffing and support to ensure its success. With the support of Georgian Bay Family Health Organization, the community health centre and walk-in clinic could open as soon as September 1, 2023.

Volunteers are what makes this whole thing work. Wayne Hawk, master organizer of the event, with the help of many, and he makes it look smooth and easy. Believe me, it's far from the truth.

The parking crew made it easy for participants to migrate to your chosen parking spot. Shade tents, washrooms and vendors for both Ladies and something for the guys too. Thanks to all the amazing volunteers who gave the day their best. It turned out great.

The day started early with some rain and long faces, but soon it becomes something of a very special day! Vehicles turned the far corner and filled the field with cars, trucks and hot rods of all designs and shapes with glorious paint schemes for all to be in awe. The sun poked through the clouds and “The Wolfman Charlie” is playing music. The smell of Canadian Back Bacon on the grill, Oh Yeah. Gotta have one. Vendors were displaying their offerings for all to see and enjoy.

Before you know it “Elvis” is on stage, belting out his famous songs of the day. Thanks Terry. Great as always.

The best as always, is saved for the for last. The Top Ten Vehicle awards. CONGRATULATIONS to all who took home an award. Special thanks to Bod Harasowsky for making the three members picks trophies.

Leaving the Fun Run behind us, the next event will be the Wasaga Beach Cruiser's car show at The Edenvale Aerodrome August 12.

The Club is operating the door for “Classic Cars” for the museum. $10.00 entrance fee with your classic (and passenger) will get you a great day at this amazing museum. Come see a large piece of history, a full size replica of the world famous Avro Canada CF-105 Arrow. The most advanced plane of the era. Many aircraft will be flying in during the day and there will be lots to see in the hangar. See you all there!

Until next time... “Keep your hands on the wheel”!

WellKnownLocalVolunteer ReceivesOntarioSenior oftheYearAward

Mayor Brian Smith presented the Ontario Senior of the Year Award at the recent Seniors Expo to Christina Armstrong, who has given countless hours as a long term senior volunteer with the Wasaga Beach Ministerial Food Bank and to her church community.

This award is well-deserved for her outstanding dedication and commitment to making a difference for so many in the Wasaga Beach community. Christina is also the recipient of the Age-Friendly Committee's Senior of the Year Award which she will receive at a Town event later in the year as one of Wasaga's Finest Citizens.

Thank you for all you do Christina! Congratulations!

Design by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

FunOnTheRiver RaisingFunds forHospice

ADayofFun RaisesFunds fortheFoodBank

For the third year of adding 'Paddle' To the annual 'Hike for Hospice' fundraising events, the group of eager paddlers who met on the river's edge, had grown to 29. Although there was a light drizzle, nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of the participants, nor the many who came to th cheer them on. Launching on June 9 from the Stonebridge Beach Club, the happy, fun loving group paddled to the Main Street bridge and back, under the watchful eyes on board a “escort boat” and friends and family gathered on the shore and on the bridge.

With the total raised this year, the group has donated approximately $12,000.00 over the three years, all donated to Campbell House Hospice in Collingwood.

If you are interested in participating next June as a team or individual, please call Patrice at 705-443-0170 for more information.

Congratulations to the organizers and to all who paddled.

Joe Bickerstaff

Congratulations to the Wasaga Beach Bite crew once again. Their firsttime golf tournament at Marlwood Golf and Country Club on June 15th raised in excess of $3,500.00 for the Wasaga Beach Ministerial Food Bank and brought 100 people together to enjoy a great day of golf, refreshments and dinner.

"We are very happy with the results," said Golf Tournament Chair Yvette Gauthier. “The business community were great supporters, Marlwood was a fantastic venue and the golfers had great fun for a good cause."

This tournament was the second event the group has organized in 2023 and hope is to surpass their fundraising goals this year.

Watch for Christmas in July event happening on July 27th at a very special location overlooking our Main Beach - Wasaga style!

You can follow the fun and get more details from www.beachbite.ca and Wasaga Beach Bite on Facebook.

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Photos by Brian Davies Photography

Metamorphoses: MagicofFantas

Stonebridge Art Gallery prepares to welcome the creative art of Victor Moley at new show

Victor Molev creatively realized himself as a painter, graphic artist, stage designer and decorator, architect. But his main occupation is still easel painting, to which he devotes so much time and effort.

His painting did not arise spontaneously, it is the result of the accumulated knowledge and experience that underlie his creative activity. Victor Molev's paintings are distinguished by sonority and variegation of colours, whimsical compositions reflecting the originality of plots and images and their non-standard interpretation, plasticity of forms and grotesque.

They are also full of symbols. Viktor Molev has created his own artistic language of symbols, signs, original effects, which makes his work unique and recognizable. A special place is occupied by a series of enigmatic portraits in which the explicit meaning merges with the hidden, attracting attention. His art attracts many admirers and leaves no one indifferent.

Victor Molev was born in Nizhny Novgorod (Russia) in 1955, received an architectural education, worked as an architect and theatre decorator. Victor emigrated from the USSR in 1990. In recent years he has been living and working in Richmond Hill, Ontario. Participant of numerous exhibitions (both personal and general) in Russia, Israel, Europe, USA and Canada. His work can be found in private collections throughout Europe, USA, Australia, South America, Canada, Japan and Israel. The artist works in the styles of surrealism and neorealism.

Recently, he has painted many portraits of historical figures and popular icons, musicians and actors. His work is a reflection of his subconscious and semi-conscious, so they are rooted in the everyday experience of the artist. His life is a journey in which new works, new circumstances and new creative directions are intertwined like a creative road map, reflecting the author's life experience and his fresh impressions.

th th This new show will start August 5 and run to September 30 at the Stonebridge Art Gallery. The gallery is located at 1 Market Lane in the Stonebridge Town Centre, second floor, beside the Beach BOOSTER Media Group office/studio. (elevator accessibility) The gallery is open Thursdays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 pm.

The Best in The World Just Got Better

We know it's the world's best ice cream place, and it's right here in Wasaga Beach, but now there is another reason to stop into Mr. Norm's Nephew main store.

Local Business Marks 10 Years in Making Customers Happy

It was a recent bright, spring morning, when Toddia Ververs of Make Great Wine on River Road West opened the doors of her business for another day, but this was not just another day. This day marked the 10th anniversary of this great local business.

Purchasing the business in 2013, then moving it to the current location at the entrance to downtown Wasaga Beach, Toddia and her team of 3 employees have been welcoming and educating locals with all they have to offer.

Toddia, Ashley and Joann of Make Great Wine have grown to know their customers on a personal level, as they feel when you make wine with them, you are part of the family. Active in the local business community and member of Wasaga Beach Women's Business Assoc. and Chamber of Commerce, in 2021, Toddia was voted 'Wasaga Beach Young Business Women of the Year'

To mark the special Anniversary Day, Toddia and team welcomed regular and new customers into their store for wine making & bottling demonstrations, Cupcakes, cookies and coffee. Lots of promotions and fun wheel of fortune spins. Town Councillor Belanger stopped in to say congratulations and join the fun.

We congratulate the entire team at Make Great Wine on this milestone of 10 years in Wasaga Beach and know that your ever-expanding customer base will continue to enjoy the services you have professionally provided for over a decade.

Joe Bickerstaff

A new and welcoming 'Swag & Sundries' section has been opened, offering us the opportunity to boast about this great local Wasaga Beach business. Available is all types of Mr. Norm's branded merch, plus everything you need for a day on the beach or in the back yard, including charcoal, sun screen, ice and more.

The new section also has a “Grab & Go Freezer”, offering ready to go, litre sized, packaged Mr. Norm's world famous ice cream, frozen yogurt, delicious ice cream cakes and often a sampling of the ultra good butter tarts from The Baker's Bench, also in Wasaga Beach.

In addition to the main location at 1004 Mosley Street and beachfront shop at Main and Beach Drive, Mr. Norm's Nephew now has a Main Street location offering it's famous ice cream treats at Skull Island, 104 Main Street. Packaged ice cream is also available at The Baker's Bench, located in the Stonebridge Town Centre.

We congratulate Paul, Karen & the team at Mr. Norm's Nephew on the opening of the new 'Swag & Sundries' section of the main location and wish them a very rewarding summer.

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Great Dining & Welcoming Staff Offer

a Cool Vibe on the Beachfront

A new look welcomes all to Banana's Beach Club on Beach Drive at our Main Beach. New seating, lighting & sound presents a fresh look and very cool beach vibe.

Not only does Bananas offer great views of the World's Longest Freshwater Beach, the bay and those glorious sunsets, but with Lazaro Vakanis in the kitchen, you know your taste-buds will be in for a treat. Laz's offerings have a reputation in town, and you know he enjoys living up to it with his menu items at Bananas. The menu boast a truly international flavour with many items to choose from, like Moroccan Cigars (lean ground beef rolled in filo pastry), Fish Tacos, Falafel Wrap and the must try Cowboy Brisket Burger, that has to be the best in Simcoe County!

The Cowboy Brisket Burger is just one of the amazing items on the menu. An Angus beef patty topped with smoked brisket, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles and red onion.

Gil Machaly is a “hands on” owner/operator of Bananas and is proud to boast about his amazing staff. A staff that goes out of their way to welcome all to this great Wasaga Beach experience. Gil speaks of Laz in the kitchen, where everything is smoked in house, and his reputation for good food. He praises his bar staff and servers, that keep customers happy and his entertainment that keeps people dancing. Jay Prez, a performer and recording artist, not only tends bar, but is MC and DJ, and has a true following of fans.

We ask Gil how the Canada Day Weekend was for Bananas, and his thoughts on the beachfront this year. He tells us; “I'm really, really excited by the fact that the new Beach Bar is open, and I wish them mush success. The beach now looks at full capacity. Competition is actually a good thing! It raises the bar, it brings it to a different standard. So what happened in the last five years at the beach? Nothing, Now we see the life back and it's rewarding for businesses, locals and our visitors!” He continues; “I made this this town my home for the last 22 years and I want it to thrive. This will always be my home. I'm always going live here. So with that being said, yeah, it just emphasizes the change that has happened and it's so noticeable this year.”

With a visit to Bananas, it's easy to see they are eager to welcome everyone. First time visitor, tourists who return year after year and of course locals, who now enjoy coming to see the fun and the action that has returned to our revitalized beachfront. Several staff members speak French, to welcome our Quebec visitors. Locals visiting Bananas are encouraged to let their server know that they are Wasaga Beach residents, to enjoy a 15% discount on any of the delicious items on the food menu.

Bananas is just one stop along our busy and vibrant main beachfront, but a stop you don't want to miss. Drop in and enjoy the “vibe”, along with a “beachy beverage” and one of Laz's menu items.

Joe Bickerstaff

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Median Group

ProactiveCommunication& CooperationAvertsUnauthorized RallyatMainBeach

Council Votes to Use Proceeds From Casino to Fund

Community Health Centre & After Hours Clinic

Time and again I hear the old complaint as to why as a municipality, are we participating in funding health services like doctor recruits, after hours clinic and also services like affordable housing needs and education. It is fine to say that this should fall under the province's responsibility, but in reality municipalities over the years have had to pick up the slack for the incompetence of our provincial & federal governments. After-all, even hospitals are partially funded municipally & through donations, and now school boards are looking at funding partners when there is a new build happening.

I can say without a doubt that I am proud to see our Mayor, Deputy Mayor and council step in and say; look... we need to help our community members here and bring back the much needed services like the after hours clinic or, waiting for the province to step in, it may never happen.

Luckily the funds provided by the casino work well towards achieving this goal. How proud Ron Ego would be to see the clinic come back after his hard work to implement it during his term as councillor from 2014-2018. I am sure he is smiling from above.

A new Council canceled the popular walk-in clinic even though a survey showed how well it was performing & at such a low cost to taxpayers. Below I have added a quote from the Association of Municipalities in Ontario over the concerns of lack of provincial funding as we are not the only small town experiencing this.

“Municipal governments have stepped in to fill the gaps when needed, especially in serving the most vulnerable and marginalized members of our communities. To meet community needs, many municipal governments fund above their required cost-share and provide additional health care services using property tax revenue.”

GreenLighttoAwardTenderto BuildNewWasagaBeach ElementarySchool

Town is partnering with province to build state-of-the-art, multi-use facility that will serve as a school and a community resource for recreational programs

Working Together – Municipal Law Enforcement, Ontario Parks Wardens & Huronia West OPP shared communications and worked together to keep Beach Drive open and safe for all to enjoy

Mayor Brian Smith thanks Town of Wasaga Beach municipal law enforcement team, fire department, Simcoe County first responders, Ontario Provincial Police and Ontario Parks wardens for swiftly and calmly dispersing unauthorized car rally last night.

The Town of Wasaga Beach and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to inform the public that an unsanctioned car rally was successfully dispersed on Friday June 16th.

The Mayor, on behalf of the Town and Council is also thanking local residents, businesses and visitors for their cooperation.

“Any time the Town and our partners, including the OPP, become aware of unsanctioned events that may be heading our way, Wasaga Beach residents, businesses and visitors can be assured we have a plan,” said Mayor Brian Smith. “Last night, that plan worked thanks to incredible teamwork and coordination between our municipal law enforcement officers, fire department, Simcoe County First Responders, OPP and Ontario Parks wardens.”

“The Town of Wasaga Beach has a Strict but Fair approach to municipal nuisance events – any unlawful behaviour including unauthorized car rallies are certainly a nuisance for our residents, businesses and visitors. A highly coordinated, Strict but Fair approach is what we used last night and it is the approach we will continue to take in these types of situations,” added Smith.

As a result, the unauthorized event was swiftly dispersed and there were:

· 0 vehicles towed

· 0 tickets issued

· 0 arrests

· 0 injuries

· 0 damage to municipal or private property

The Town, Wasaga Beach fire department, municipal law enforcement officers, Simcoe County first responders, Ontario Parks Wardens and OPP will continue to collaborate and work together to ensure this weekend, and the summer, continues to be safe and fun for everyone.

The Town of Wasaga Beach today welcomed news that the Ontario government has provided the Simcoe County District School Board with approval to award the tender to build a new elementary school in Wasaga Beach.

This project is a joint partnership between the Ontario government and the Town of Wasaga Beach. The province has committed $22.5 million to help get shovels in the ground quickly.The town is investing over $2.5 million to help build an innovative and modern learning environment that will create an additional 4800 square feet of community use space.

Identified as a capital priority by the Simcoe District School Board in 2017/2018, the long awaited Wasaga Beach Public School will be located at 42 Union Boulevard and will provide 406 elementary spaces for local families.

“Wasaga Beach continues to be one of the fastest growing communities in Ontario. The town is proud to partner with the Ontario government and Simcoe County District School Board to build this state-of-the art school and multi-use facility that will serve as a much-needed school and community resource,” said Brian Smith, Mayor of Wasaga Beach. “Today's investment is good news for our town, our families and students, and the future of Wasaga Beach.”

“Wasaga Beach is investing over $2.5 million to help build an innovative learning environment for our students and create much-needed community space for our local families, seniors and youth,” said Smith. “Our elementary schools are busting at the seams and this new school is going to help immensely. We're happy to be working with a government that has made schools, education – and getting shovels in the ground – a priority. We're also fortunate to have a very active and engaged MPP, Brian Saunderson, representing Wasaga Beach and our local students and families at Queen's Park.”

“The Town of Wasaga Beach appreciates all of the people and work that happens behind the scenes at the school board and ministry of education,” Smith added.

“We thank Minister Lecce and the provincial government for their partnership and investment in our students and our community – and we look forward to building on this successful partnership as we continue to advocate on behalf of students and families in Wasaga Beach.”

Photos by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Our community recently received the great news that the province is working with our Town to build a new elementary school. The new building will house some four hundred of our children who are currently jammed into overcrowded schools or bussed to Collingwood and Elmvale.

New Elementary School Funding Announced –

What's Different This Time?

different this time? First, we have a newly elected council in the first year of their term who won't allow this project to falter. Second, the amount of money allotted for the construction signifies the intent by both levels of government to create a beautiful space for our children, which can be shared by local adult groups and individuals. Thirdly, and no less important is the fact that there are many new faces on the school board. Fourth, incumbent trustees have already seen to it that most of the older schools in their towns have been replaced by new ones. We can only hope that those appetites have finally been satiated.

The province will spend $22..5 million while the town will contribute another $2.5 million in an effort to create a spectacular facility which promises to add to the quality of life of all our citizens. Notice that the Simcoe County District School Board is not mentioned in the media version of the announcement. This body is, at the very least, the vehicle through which the funds must travel. And therein lies the problem.

In January of 2018, a similar announcement was made. School Board planners went into high gear contacting our Town's planning department and letting officials know that they intended to fast-track the process in the hopes of a September 2019 opening. Then came the election of October, 2018 and we never heard of that project again. The old trope, “Elections have consequences”, was never so jarringly proven true.

So here we sit, five and a half years later, with a renewed promise. What is

We can expect that someone from the Simcoe County D.S.B. will blame one of our local developers for the five-year delay. The real reason is that the culture of that body was to game the province's funding formula by lobbying for capital grants to replace older schools operating at half capacity by brand new schools at full capacity. Closing two schools and building one new one with provincial dollars saved on operating costs and renovation dollars. Meanwhile, our kids were used to back-fill under capacity schools in neighbouring communities while our ratepayers provided a windfall of revenue from development fees and residential property taxes. Hopefully, that fever infecting trustees has finally broken. Times call for us to be involved and vigilant to ensure that this school gets built in due time. Let's also keep the pressure on until our local system is completed with the construction of a new high school!

Our Beach Kids deserve what kids everywhere else have. Our 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)

Talented Illustrator's Work Available For

All To Enjoy

Jason & friend offer some fun colouring books for your creative well being

I recently returned from Thunder Bay before getting ready for Jamacia, I had a th presentation in Peterborough on March 7 for St. Catherine Catholic Elementary School. Forty-five children in grades four and five had just finished doing a novel study on 'The World with Jason George Canada' illustrated by Jimmy McGann. The school thought it would be fun to bring the guy from the book in.

While I was in the area, I decided to visit one of my old housemates from university as I haven't seen Jen since then. I stopped in at her school, Roger Neilson Public School as it was closer than I thought and I was early. She invited me into their classroom to talk to the grade one classroom. So, I did a quick minipresentation and they asked me some great questions.

Jen was telling me about one of the things that she likes to do and I had a proposal for her, we chatted for a bit and she liked the idea. She was going to recreate my drawings.

I sent Jen some of my favourite pictures for her to play around with and recreate. She sent them back to me and I was in awe of how beautiful they were! I shared them with a couple of people and they loved them! My NEW book series 'Going Deeper with Jason George – Red Foxes' was coming along nicely so I asked her to focus on foxes! My idea is that Jen was going to create realistic drawings for this book series so readers can colour the pictures they're looking at in the book. At this point, I don't think either one of us knew where this was going to go.

Jen was enjoying it so much that she created more than I needed for the book, but I didn't want to waste her talents. So, we created this FREE colouring package to help people who like to colour and want something different. This colouring is interactive as videos on my YouTube channel correspond to the foxes you colour. I had too many to make just one or two sheets so I created a 14-page booklet to share. I included some favourites while still saving some specifically for my book. I included one special one that Jen shared with her class more than two months after and 'It's Jason!!' they said as they saw it.

Celebrating a Significant Step: Creation of the Climate Action Advisory Committee

Since its inception in May 2021, when theTown of Wasaga Beach declared a climate emergency, the Wasaga Beach ClimateActionTeam (WBCAT) has been providing theTown Mayor, Council and Staff with a short list of recommendations, the first one being the creation of a ClimateAction Advisory Committee.

In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global conversations, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that we extend our congratulations to the Mayor and Council for the establishment of the new ClimateActionAdvisory Committee (CAAC), as passed on June 8 at the Committee ofThe Whole Council Meeting.This proactive step showcases their commitment to addressing the urgent challenges of climate change in our community

The creation of this committee demonstrates foresight and recognition of the vital role local governments play in mitigating the impact of climate change. By assembling a diverse group of experts, activists, organizations, and community members, Council has fostered a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovative thinking.

Town staff summarized the Responsibilities andTasks of the CAAC, in the “Terms of Reference” document as follows:

1. Develop a full understanding of written/stated policies and priorities that Council, various governments and local agencies currently have in place or are working on;

2. Provide recommendations and respond to requests from Town Council;

3. Identify emerging environmental issues and technologies, particularly those associated with climate warming adaptation and mitigation;

4. Identify new or changing environmental legislation, conservation, environmental sustainability, and the environment in relation to overall quality of life;

5. Identify and pursue resources such as grants, various funding opportunities, corporate sponsorships or in-kind donations;

6. Investigate and identify for Council opportunities to work with municipal partners on environmental projects and collaborations to support realization of Term of Council Priorities;

7. Provide an annual report on the accomplishments of the Advisory Committee.

This is a first step to demonstrate dedication to sustainability and the environment, in alignment with the Green Pillar of theTerm of Council Priorities (TOCP) for 2023-2026, “Undertake advocacy and show leadership in response to the global climate emergency”, and achievingAction 77 of the TOCPs “to strike an environmental advisory committee”.This committee will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the policies and initiatives necessary to transition to a more sustainable future. By harnessing the collective wisdom and expertise of its members, the committee can identify actionable strategies, influence policy decisions, and educate the public on the importance of climate action.

We also commend the Mayor and Council for their commitment to inclusive governance, by involving various stakeholders as per the “Terms of Reference” document below:

“The Advisory Committee will consist of the following:

- One Member of Town Council

- Two Voting Members from the Wasaga Beach Climate Action Team

- Three Voting representatives from any of the Nottawasaga Conservation Authority, Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, South Georgian Bay Community Health Centre. However, representatives from other similar organizations are acceptable as determined by the Selection Committee for Advisory Committees.

- Two Voting Members of the Public”

Opportunity to volunteer was advertised on Town website and inThe the Wasaga Sun, and the deadline for applications was June 21 election will . S follow the new process recently created by Council.

I decided that I wanted to share the colouring packages for free because I go to nature for my mental health and it helps me, Jen likes to draw and it helps her. So, why not create these packages that might help others with their mental health by combining something we both enjoy and helps us?

If you would like to receive a free 14-page PDF please send me an email or for $1.00, it can be purchased in the store at www.jasongeorgephotography.com

Until next time, Stay safe, have fun and enjoy the wildlife!

Jason George

As members or supporters of WBCAT, and/or as residents concerned about climate change, we stand united in our support for this initiative and eagerly anticipate the positive outcomes that will arise from the ClimateActionAdvisory Committee's work.Together, we can foster a greener, more resilient community and inspire others to join us in this critical endeavour

ClimateAction NOW!

www.wasagabeachclimateaction.com

• info@wasagabeachclimateaction.com

Library Receives Grant Funding to Support Seniors

CYCLING CYCLING

The 7 Beaches Route

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 60 km

Start: Wasaga Beach

RecPlex, 1724 Mosley Street

Starting in Wasaga Beach and carrying on to Historic Balm Beach, this relatively flat route travels up the shore of Georgian Bay, passing beach after beach, including the world's longest fresh water beach in Wasaga Beach.

The Wasaga Beach Public Library (WBPL) is excited to announce it has been chosen as a recipient of the 2023-24 Seniors Community Grant Program. The grant will contribute over $23,000 in funding to support the WBPL Seniors Cultural Connections program to provide older adults in Wasaga Beach with new cultural opportunities.

As announced by Minister of Seniors and Accessibility of Ontario Raymond Cho on June 1, the provincial government is investing up to $6 million dollars in over 280 projects across the province. These projects promote social inclusion, volunteerism, and community engagement.

“Across the province, June is a time when we pay formal tribute to our seniors. Ontario's older adults are the province's fastest growing demographic, and they are to be celebrated for the contributions they have made to our communities. It's important that they know we are working hard to provide them with grants such as this one, that will be used by the Wasaga Beach Public Library to provide opportunities for them to keep active and socially connected close to their home.” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey. “I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to WBPL CEO Pamela Pal and her dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work hard to deliver quality programming that makes a big difference in the lives of seniors in Wasaga Beach.”

WBPL will use the funds to focus on helping to combat social isolation by providing seniors with uplifting and enlightening cultural experiences. Using a portion of the grant money the library will be organizing four coach bus excursions to cultural attractions around the GTA. These trips will be highly subsidized to equalize access for all older adults.

Funds will also be used to organize four live musical performances at the new Twin Pad Arena & Library, providing seniors with unique social entertainment throughout the fall and winter seasons.

To ensure that the Cultural Connections program resonates with seniors and reaches those isolated the most, WBPL will be convening a Seniors Advisory Committee of volunteers to help with the organization and delivery of these programs. These volunteers will be instrumental in helping to organize specialized transit solutions to ensure that those with mobility and transit challenges will be able to still attend the performances.

WBPL has tremendous experience programming for seniors through its ongoing adult programs as well as having been a recipient of Seniors Community Grant funds in the past. “We recognize that there is a significant population of older adults in Wasaga Beach, and we are dedicated to providing them with unique opportunities to bolster their well-being while simultaneously removing barriers.” Said Pam Pam, library CEO.

More details will be made available as they become available. To get the latest updates on this program and others that the library offers, you can follow the library on social media or sign up for their email newsletter at wasagabeachpubliclibrary.ca.

General & Media Inquiries

Kyle Young Community Relations Assistant

Wasaga Beach Public Library

705.429.5481 x2406

communityrelations.wbpl@wasagabeach.com

Bring your bathing suit along, because this route lives up to it's name, “7 Beaches Route”. Take a swim in the clear blue waters of Georgian Bay at any point along the way, or at the halfway point in Balm Beach. Grab a quick bite to eat and fill up your water bottles before you return via the same way back to Wasaga Beach where you can have a refreshing aprè ride swim!

See our Digital Issue for a link to detailed map with elevations: www.beachbooster.com/publications

Editor's note: This route sees high volumes of traffic in the peak summer season, especially weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds and have the beaches to yourself do this ride early in the morning

Arugula and Asparagus Salad

This summer salad is delicious and refreshing and goes well with just about anything that you have on the grill. Quick and easy to make with only a very few ingredients, it's the perfect 'go to' salad when you

½ pound large or medium asparagus

1 tsp red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 garlic clove

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 cup arugula, washed and dried

1 oz Thin sliced ParmigianoReggiano Cheese

1 0z grated ParmigianoReggiano Cheese

In a small glass bowl, combine the vinegar and a good pinch of salt. After a minute, add the garlic and vigorously whisk in the olive oil and a few drops of water. It should thicken and be smooth.

Snap off and discard the tough ends of the asparagus and soak in cold water for about 5 minutes. You may need to peel the thicker pieces. Quickly blanch them for about 3 -4 minutes in a pot of boiling salted water. Chill down in a bowl of ice water. If you are using the thinner variety they will be done in about 1-2 minutes.

Note: If you smell the asparagus while it's cooking, you're n the verge of over cooking them. So get them out of the water quickly and drain them well.

Place the asparagus on a platter and sprinkle with some sea salt, some grated Parmesan, and a little lemon juice. Place the arugula on top, add the vinaigrette and the shaved Parmesan, and finish with a couple grindings of black pepper.

Community ad space provided by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Donationof“Buddies” toFirstResponders

Melanie and other Scentsy Consutants Krista Scratcher, Heather Ouellette & Stacey McDonald display the “Buddies” donated & presented to the Wasaga Beach Fire Department. Mayor Smith and the rest of council joined the presentation.

Melanie DeCoste Harbridge is a local Scentsy Consultant who has a desire to give back to her community. Beach BOOSTER was recently invited to the presentation to the Fire Department at Town Hall, and Mayor Smith, Deputy Mayor Snell and councillors joined the fun. Below, Melanie tells her story:

Doing a Buddy Drive as a fundraiser has always been in the back of my mind as a way to give back. Being a military spouse and moving every 4 years (18 months in our case) it hasn't always been easy to feel connected to the community we were living in. We are a military family who moved to Wasaga Beach in 2019 and we love it here! I quickly grew to love where I lived and once we knew we wouldn't be going anywhere for the foreseeable future, I started thinking about how I could give back. Every time I passed the fire station it would start me thinking. I had seen many fellow consultants do it for Children's Hospital's so I thought, "Why not our Fire/OPP/EMS services"? They go on calls where a child may have lost their belongings in a house fire or maybe a child has been removed from a home during a domestic disturbance and they are scared and need a "Buddy".

I had the privilege of seeing Fire Chief Craig Williams just before Christmas during their annual Toy Drive and I floated the idea to him. He thought it was a great initiative. When Scentsy announced their "BUDDY BONANZA", I knew it was time to put feet to what it was I wanted to do. I enlisted the help of 3 fellow consultants to join me on this mission. The great thing is none of these ladies are on my team. This shows the respect we have not only for each other but when we work together for betterment of our community, we can do great things. Together with Krista Scratcher, Heather Ouellette and Stacey McDonald we raised over 50 Scentsy Buddies and Buddy Clips from our wonderful customers to help our community.

Melanie DeCoste Harbridge

Photo by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

Emergency-Grandparent Scam

Fraudsters are targeting seniors by calling and pretending to be a family member in distress, the police or a justice official claiming that a loved one or grandchild is in trouble, and needs money immediately. Victims are told there's a gag order, and can't speak to anyone.

Protect Yourself. Fraudsters will:

Call demanding immediate payment for bail, or fines to avoid going to jail.

Remember! The courts won't ask for cash to bail out someone in custody, and will require people to be present in court.

Claim to be a lawyer, police or a family member in an emergency situation demanding funds. Be suspicious of calls that require immediate action. Hang up! Call your local police and contact the family member directly.

Request cash and send couriers for pick up, or demand the victim send cash by courier services or via crypto currency. Never send cash, crypto currencies or any other funds to unknown persons, unverified addresses or bank accounts.

If you believe you have been scammed, contact your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or www.antifraudcentre.ca

Fraud - Recognize, Reject, Report!

Baycats Lay Third Following Winning Record

The

The Baycats, who are seven-time Dominico Cup winners, have a 9-5 record after 14 games played and are currently on a five-game win streak. The Welland Jackfish lead the conference with an 11-2 record while the Toronto Maple Leafs sit in second a game ahead of Barrie. This solid start is a bounce back from last season where the Baycats struggled in the regular season finishing fifth and just surpassing a .500 record.

Pitcher Juan Benítez has recorded three wins so far this season including a shutout against Guelph his last time out. With the bat, Josh Cote has led the way with a .419 average while Starlin Rodriguez and Ryan Rijo both have three home runs each on the season.

To learn more about the Barrie Baycats and to book tickets, visit www.barriebaycats.com

Barrie Baycats are closing in on the top of the Inter-county Baseball League with a solid start to the season.

THE LATEST SPORT STORIES IN THE GEORGIAN BAY REGION Ryan Davies

Hi Joe:

Thank you so much for everything you do to promote the Arts in Wasaga Beach.

You have always been so generous assisting Wasaga Artists to advertise our events in the beach BOOSTER; and, you even went the extra mile to access CTV for our 50th PLUS your coverage of the actual Celebration Art Show.

The beach BOOSTER is a treasure to our community; full of information at our fingertips (online and delivered to each household) for up coming & past events; as well as up to date info on the town's progress in its rejuvenation to becoming a destination community for travellers, as well as to those who discover Wasaga Beach and decide to make it their home! Thanks for all you do for Wasaga Beach!

Your beach BOOSTER keeps everyone informed How many towns or cities can brag about their local Newspaper? WE can!

Thanks Joe.

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: This heartwarming story from Mike’s collection was published in a local paper 20 years ago this month.

The lovingly restored Carousel Horse from Wasaga Beach’s own Merry-GoRound at the former Playland Park is now on display at the Wasaga Beach Archives.

Visit the Archives to enjoy this and so many other great pieces of Wasaga Beach history. The Archives are located at 140 Main Street.

Earlene M. Wasaga Beach

Community ad space provided by Beach BOOSTER Media Group

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