A H C H A M B E R .C A Issue 2022/2023
C O M M U N I T Y G U I D E & D I R EC TO RY
Nature Embrace our
In this Issue
Health, Wellness & Fitness IN THE BEAUTIFUL ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS
Taking the Road Less Paved GHOST GRAVEL CYCLING EVENT
Drifting Down MIDLOTHIAN ROAD
Exploring South River
FINDING HISTORY AND ADVENTURE
Celebrate +Inspirational Women
in Almaguin
Life’s a Beach
+
HAVE FUN IN THE SUN
more! events • lifestyle • community • business • culture
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
WELCOME TO THE
A
lmaguin highlands is a region full of breath-taking sights,
sparkling lakes and lush forests providing a way of life that memories can be built from. It comprises many unique and beautiful villages and communities, overflowing with history and exceptional services. The last couple of years have been challenging for everyone, so it is time to find a new normal, embracing this summer and creating everlasting memories. This resource is full of attractions, local businesses, stories, and advice on how to do just that. We are eager to have you jump into our region, arms wide, ready for adventure! Whether your family settled here, you joined our area recently or are here visiting on behalf of the Almaguin Chamber of Commerce, I would like to invite you to the Almaguin highlands, the land where magic awaits.
From the Almaguin Chamber of Commerce, Welcome! J O D I
A R M I T
VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
4
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS J O H N
F E R C H A T
President
J O D I
A R M I T
Vice-President
J E A N E T T E
Secretary
S H A R O N
F E R C H A T
Tr e a s u r e r
D U L C I E
S M I T H
P A S C O E
“
Membership and Communications Chair
A N T H O N Y
R I Z Z O
J E N N I F E R
F A R Q U H A R
Governance and Finance Chair
Our Mission
Economic Development Chair
C A R R I S S A
Events Chair
E M I L I O
Director
B R E N T
Director
J I M
M A C D O N A L D
F O F F A N O H A R R I S
G O D F R E Y
Director
R O B Y N
To be the voice for a prosperous business community that fosters pride and collaboration within Almaguin Highlands and to encourage economic growth on behalf of its members and the communities it represents.
T U C K E R
Director
5
A H C H A M B E R .C A Issue 2022/2023
C O M M U N I T Y G U I D E & D I R EC TO RY
Nature Embrace our
In this Issue
Health, Wellness & Fitness IN THE BEAUTIFUL ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS
Taking the Road Less Paved GHOST GRAVEL CYCLING EVENT
Drifting Down
Celebrate +Inspirational
MIDLOTHIAN ROAD
Exploring South River
Women
FINDING HISTORY AND ADVENTURE
in Almaguin
Life’s a Beach
+
HAVE FUN IN THE SUN
more!
I’M
ta ke Y
O me U RS !
events • lifestyle • community • business • culture
ON THE COVER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WENDY MacCRIMMON
PHOTOGRAPHY WENDY MacCRIMMON • wmacphotography.com KATE HOOD PHOTOGRAPHY • katehood.ca EXPLORERS’ EDGE • explorersedge.ca ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT
DESIGN GREEN MOOSE MEDIA greenmoosemedia.com
PRINTING
IMPRESSIONS PRINTING impressions-printing.com
OUR CONTRIBUTORS JENNIFER FARQUHAR, CREATIVE DIRECTOR & PRODUCTION MANAGER EMILIO FOFFANO, SALES & CO-CHAIR DULCIE PASCOE, CONTRIBUTOR JEANETTE SMITH, CONTRIBUTOR SHARON FERCHAT, TREASURER JOANNE COLLINS, EDITOR CIARA RYAN, ACED, CONTRIBUTOR COURTNEY METCALF, ACED, CONTRIBUTOR
AUTHORS CIARA RYAN JUSTINE LEVEQUE ADRIENNE MAZZUCHELLI DANIELLE MARR JENNIFER MCCOURT BRENDA ABRAM NAKAMURA BARB LOW COURTNEY METCALF COLE FARQUHAR
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
what’s In Every Issue
Welcome Message & BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Celebrating Almaguin EVENTS IN ALMAGUIN
Parks & Trails FIND YOUR ADVENTURE
Discovery Routes LET’S GO EXPLORE
Then & Now FEATURING ZAK’S SUNDRIDGE
Municipal Information LOCAL CONTACTS & SERVICES
Business Directory CONNECT WITH LOCAL BUSINESSES
4 20 62 70 76 80 82
inside
Issue | 2022/2023
Featured 8
How I Embraced Almaguin’s Nature AN OPEN LETTER
12
Explore your Health, Wellness & Fitness
16
Exploring South River
IN THE BEAUTIFUL ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS
AT THE INTERSECTION OF HISTORY AND ADVENTURE
28
Drifting Down Midlothian Road
32
Taking the Road Less Paved
LINGERING BY THE HEADS THAT SCREAM
38
A Simple Cottage Log Book
46
Life’s a Beach
52
Celebrating Inspirational Women
66
My Favorite Things To Do
DOCUMENTING SUMMERS IN ALMAGUIN
IT’S TIME TO HAVE FUN IN THE SUN!
IN ALMAGUIN
IN ALMAGUIN
GHOST GRAVEL CYCLING EVENT
A PUBLICATION OF
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AHCHAMBER.CA
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“Almaguin’s Nature How I Embraced
PHOTOGRAPHY
A
BY Ciara Ryan, ACED Wendy MacCrimmon
n open letter to the new arrivals, cottagers, full-time generational residents, business owners, and anyone else
that makes Almaguin so special: I have lived in Almaguin, specifically Kearney, for three wonderful years now. I’m still relatively new to living here, but I have met many people who have been fortunate to live in Almaguin for generations. I want to share my story and insight on how I’ve been welcomed and made this undiscovered gem my home. I grew up in several small communities in Muskoka and moved around a lot; by the time I graduated high school, I had lived in 5 different communities. Like many other students in my school, I couldn’t wait to move to “the big city” in search of new experiences and opportunities after graduation. After living in Toronto for three years, the big question of ‘what next?’ loomed over me. I felt a calling to return home to small-town living and to come back to the connections I had made in my younger years. I wanted to take what I learned and bring it to a new community; one where I could create roots for myself. My first introduction to Almaguin was through the Algonquin West ATV club. I have been volunteering for the group for eleven years now, and I currently sit on the board of directors. Through this organization, I started to make connections and recognize some of the local faces around different villages in the area. After a few years of living and working just outside of Almaguin, I finally made a career and life change choosing to call Almaguin home. Everyone welcomed me with open arms, and I found what I didn’t even know I was looking for, a sense of community.
“Living here is unlike anything I’ve experienced, where else can you make connections like this in such a short time? ”
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
8
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
I
‘m loving the connections I have been making over the past few years with local business owners, community
groups, and new friends. I feel that strong sense of community at every turn; whether I’m walking to my local corner store where I can laugh and joke with the store owner over how often I’m there to buy ice cream or receiving large packages in the mail that the owner of the local gas station picks up for me (she even sends me a friendly text to let me know something’s in!). It’s simply about the friendly faces and waves you get from everyone who passes you by on the street, and those small shops that take the time to get to know your name and your regular order. All these moments have quickly made me feel like I’ve always lived here and have always belonged. This is why I love living here; the strong sense of community that has been embedded in me since moving here. Living here is unlike anything I’ve experienced, where else can you make connections like this in such a short time? You may be asking why this matters; better yet, why it should matter to you? Simply put, these experiences have given me a unique perspective, a so-called ‘outsider’ viewpoint of Almaguin and an appreciation for how it should be treasured. Growing up in a neighbouring community, I’m amazed that I was never exposed to this region. I am hoping to be part of the changes needed to bring more focus to this gorgeous region and all it has to offer. The sense of striving to work together, succeed, and make a difference leaves me feeling in awe. For some of you, I may just be ‘preaching to the choir’ as many of you know how great Almaguin is, but I believe it’s time that we share our stories, feelings, and thoughts on what makes Almaguin unique and special. Almaguin is a region that was once off the beaten track, a region with a made-up name that no one can pronounce or knows what it means. But to me, Almaguin means home. I invite you all to embrace the nature of Almaguin, however you choose to live, work, or play here. The beauty of our trails, forests, lakes, or the kind welcoming people that have put down roots here.
Have your voice heard and share your Almaguin stories by emailing marketing@investalmaguin.ca 9
Photos courtesy of Explorer’s Edge, Limelight Muskoka and Culinary Toursim Alliance
Welcome to Almaguin! Your destination to escape the everyday grind.
Your guide to local businesses and experiences: explorealmaguin.ca
Each one of our unique communities is welcoming you to embrace our nature - whether that is a connection to unspoiled nature, a reminder of our strong and persevering history or that bond with family and friends.
Almaguin business guide to support: investalmaguin.ca Reach out to us: marketing@investalmaguin.ca
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Explore your
Health,Wellness and Fitness in the Beautiful Almaguin Highlands BY
Justine Leveque
Personal Training Specialist at PL Fitness PHOTOGRAPHY
Kate Hood
T
he Almaguin Highlands is the greatest place for finding peace and tranquility, which
makes it an even better place to fully embrace and embody your best self. Whether you are starting fresh on your journey to wellness, or are looking to continue down a path already begun, you have come to a prime location for both. Set aside your worries on the shores of your favourite waterway, close your eyes allowing your thoughts to guide you to the peak of your highest personal wellness goals, and then ask yourself, what do I need to succeed?
“There is no better time than now to take the health and wellness plunge. Here you are in the heart of Almaguin, soaking up the summer sunshine, listening to the calming sounds of birds chirping, and water lapping the shore.“
Photography by Kate Hood
12
“The Almaguin Highlands is the greatest place for finding peace and tranquility, which makes it an even better place to fully embrace and embody your best self.”
Photography by Kate Hood
I
f you have never gone to a gym before, this might be
the perfect place to test the water. Perhaps you feel less energetic than you used to, maybe last year’s summer clothes you’ve packed for a vacation are too tight, or possibly you just want to improve your beach body? The Almaguin Highlands can offer you a gym facility overlooking beautiful Lake Bernard that allows you to continue your season on the water while working on your fitness. While you are there, you can discover more opportunities to expand your vision of personal wellness such as fitness classes, personal training, or the decision to complete a health and wellness intake form that will provide feedback encompassing an in-depth look at your nutrition, sleeping habits, and whether you are suffering from any potential vitamins and minerals deficiencies. After diving into these waters of self-discovery and strength, you may find that you require some further materials to support your personal wellness breakthroughs. So you set out on an excursion to find products of self-care and the natural supplements you require at the local health food store. While visiting this health food store, you can take advantage of the convenient local grocery store next door to make smart nutrition choices with the purchase of some fresh produce, maybe something recommended from the feedback you got
Photography courtesy of Northridge Inn
when you submitted your health and wellness intake form.
D
o you have a cottage with some property, or have you joined the
throng of people who have left the city behind and bought a house with a big yard? Is gardening in your future? What can be more soothing and satisfying for the soul than growing a garden. If you have never experienced the joy of picking produce from your own plot of land and tasting the full flavour of your favourite veggies freshly picked, you are missing out. Almaguin has lots of places you can go to purchase everything you need to make your flower or vegetable garden. Prepare yourself for a peaceful afternoon of getting your hands pleasantly dirty with mother earth and discover a calmer and more peaceful you. There is no better time than now to take the health and wellness plunge. Here you are in the heart of Almaguin, soaking up the summer sunshine, listening to the calming sounds of birds chirping, and water lapping the shore. The pacifying colours of blue and green surround you. Continue your discovery of what true peace of mind is by getting in tune with nature, taking time for yourself, breathing deep, as well as listening to your body and mind as they tell you what else you need to do to be the best possible version of you. Take a hike or bike out on the trails or dip your paddle in the quiet waters of a lake or river; there is no end of health promoting activities you can do in this region.
&
YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP
for
FEED
SEED
and so much more!
BIRD SEED PET FOOD & SUPPLIES LIVESTOCK FEED SEED, SOIL & FERTILIZER GALLAGHER FENCING THORNLOE CHEESE • BOARDS HONEY POSHAVEN ORGANIC FLOUR BELLA HILL MAPLE SYRUP krausefarms@bellnet.ca 357 Clark St., PO Box 159, Powassan, ON P0H 1Z0
705.724.2500
In the Almaguin Highlands time slows down, nature blossoms and self-discovery is fulfilled. Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of life, gives you time to ponder life and all that being your healthiest, happiest and most beautiful self can mean. You can do all of this while supporting the local businesses that are there to support your wellness journey. You will find many friendly folk along your path who will be more than willing to guide you with their years of accumulated knowledge and expertise. If taking your health and fitness to a higher level is a new concept for you, perhaps it is time to get your feet wet and uncover the many ways in which the Almaguin Highlands can help you meet your goals.
Check our selection of apparel, home decor and gifts. We have some great brands such as Charlie B, Z Supply and our Canadian made Parkhurst. We are your one stop shop for all your cottage wear and entertaining needs. • grass fed beef and butter • fresh fish and seafood • great selection of Ontario cheeses • charcuterie, veggie, fruit trays • custom gift baskets • ladies apparel & home decor
Open everyday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Great Quality & Service 59 Spark St. South, Magnetawan, one block from the Post Office
705-387-1414
+
• Strength & Conditioning • Nutrition Support • Personal Training • Access to Pool & Sauna
NOW ON!
SENIOR
FITNESS CLASSES
WHERE: PL Fitness gym 10 Main Street Sundridge
Tired of feeling tired.....want to get your muscles strong again and your immune system healthy?
• Spin Classes • Senior Fitness Classes • Yoga • Tanning Bed
SIGN UP FOR OUR
WEIGHT LOSS
& WELLNESS
Get Glutes
PROGRAM
Weigh in at the beginning and work with our team to lose lbs. For every 1 lb lost we will credit your training with $10.
PAUL LOUGHRAN paulloughran@live.com
705 498 9778 PLFITNESS.CA / OPEN 24 HOURS / 7 DAYS A WEEK
PL FITNESS
DULCIE PASCOE dulcie@getglutes.ca
705 644 4579
Ge Glu
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Exploring SOUTH RIVER:
At the Intersection of History & Adventure Danielle Marr PHOTOGRAPHY Wendy MacCrimmon BY
W
hen I moved to the sleepy little town of South River, I had no prior ties to the community. No family in the area, I had never
cottaged here, or anything of the like. But, after many years of my partner (now husband) and I spinning our wheels in the GTA looking for a different pace of life, I landed a job in the region and ended up choosing South River as a place to purchase our first home, and we set down roots here in 2018. South River, upon first inspection, appeared to be a bit of an unpolished gem. Like it had stories to tell and seemingly undiscovered places to explore. It had a gritty sort of magic to it that we couldn’t quite put our fingers on. It honestly just felt like home, despite having no prior connections. Slowly but surely, the source of the magic that we felt on that first day as we unpacked our things in our new home has revealed itself, layer by layer. Working as the local reporter for the first couple of years living here offered me the opportunity to get out and meet a ton of the amazing people and get to know both South River and all of the uniquely awesome little communities that make up the Almaguin Highlands quite intimately. I was also welcomed onto a team of folks who hoped to help showcase all that South River and the surrounding area have to offer via the Explore South River project. As a local resident with a penchant for the written word, I was happy to help gather stories alongside a small team of fellow writers. The signs on the way into town refer to South River as Nature’s Playground (it totally is), and the gateway to Algonquin Park (also accurate). But there really is so much more to this little village, and in the process of diving deep into the archives at the local library, and interviewing local residents dedicated to keeping the stories of this place alive, I learned a lot.
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
I
learned about the humble yet fascinating
history of this town which now acts as a tapestry for neverending adventure and artistic inspiration for both visitors and residents alike.
“Look hard enough in any direction around and outside of town, though, really, and you’ll stumble upon a piece of fascinating history and boundless opportunities for adventure.“
If you wander through Tom Thomson Park, either with a furry friend by your side or to play a round of disc golf, eventually you will stumble upon rail ties of days gone by embedded in the grass. You may also, like many have, raise an eyebrow as you head east out of town across the causeway and find yourself on ‘Chemical Road.’ It seems like such a harsh name for such a beautiful drive, I know. I questioned it upon first encounter too. As it turns out though, that winding road into the wilderness honors the Standard Chemical Company, which once produced so much charcoal that the town earned the name ‘The Charcoal Capital of Canada’ for quite a few years. The road was originally a set of train tracks cut out of the wilderness to shuttle cordwood from deep in the woods, back to the factory in town. Today, it provides access to a series of neverending trail opportunities for adventurers of all shapes and sizes. It leads you to some of the best hiking trails in the region, maintained by hardworking volunteers and stewards of the land at the Forgotten Trails Association. Take a walking tour just outside of town down Isabella Street, and you’ll stumble upon the rushing waters of the hydroelectric dam, once
on whatever happened to be fueling them at that point in history)
known as Dunbar Falls.
along the route to North Bay, and was actually shifted from one side of the tracks to the other in order to accommodate. Today, it has
South River is also well known for its picturesque canoe routes which
been selected as one of the few stops for the Northlander Train from
once took the famed Group of Seven artist Tom Thomson in and out
Toronto which is set to be restored in the next few years.
of Algonquin Park. These same waters were equally as familiar to lumber barons like JR Booth who was known for controlling lumber
The road was originally a set of train tracks cut out of the wilderness to
rights for large swaths of forests well beyond our little town.
shuttle cordwood from deep in the woods, back to the factory in town. Today, it provides access to a series of neverending trail opportunities for
The train station made a name for itself as a divisional point (where
adventurers of all shapes and sizes. It leads you to some of the best hiking
trains would have their engines checked, swap wheels, and load up
trails in the region, maintained by hardworking volunteers and stewards of the land at the Forgotten Trails Association.
T
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ake a walking tour just outside of town down Isabella Street, and
Today, it has been selected as one of the few stops for the Northlander
you’ll stumble upon the rushing waters of the hydroelectric dam, once
Train from Toronto which is set to be restored in the next few years.
known as Dunbar Falls.
Look hard enough in any direction around and outside of town,
South River is also well known for its picturesque canoe routes which once took the famed Group of Seven artist Tom Thomson in and out
though, really, and you’ll stumble upon a piece of fascinating history and boundless opportunities for adventure.
of Algonquin Park. These same waters were equally as familiar to
If you want to learn more about the history of South River and find
lumber barons like JR Booth who was known for controlling lumber
new places to adventure, check out exploresouthriver.ca or the
rights for large swaths of forests well beyond our little town.
Explore South River app! It is available on the Apple App Store and the
The train station made a name for itself as a divisional point (where trains would have their engines checked, swap wheels, and load up on whatever happened to be fueling them at that point in history) along the route to North Bay, and was actually shifted from one side of the tracks to the other in order to accommodate.
Photography by Karen Stephenson
Google Play Store and will guide you to all 12 historical panels posted throughout the region, as well as all of the best local trails, parks, beaches, sight-seeing stops, art studios, artisans, places to eat, learn, and lots more!
Huntsville 705-789-4957
Burk’s Falls 705-382-2323
Sundridge 705-384-5437
Port Loring 705-757-2911
www.coldwellbankerrealestate.ca
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Celebrate Almaguin From food and entertainment, to music, festivals & fairs, Almaguin always finds a reason to celebrate our community year after year.
Photography by Kate Hood
20
events SUMMER ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
South River Lions Club Canada Day Celebrations Date: July 1, 2022 Location: Tom Thomson Park Details: For more information visit the South River Village website closer to the date. Contact Ron Bennison - 705-386-2128
Lions Bike Rodeo Finals Date: Saturday June 18, 2022 Time: Registration at 9am, Start at 10am Location: TBD Contact: 705-492-4950 AlmaguinLions@gmail.com www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong
Magnetawan Canada Day Event and Fireworks Date: July 1, 2022 Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com
Virtual Scavenger Hunt - Magnetawan Date: June 18, 2022 Almaguin Wellness Event Date: June 26, 2022 / Time: 11:30am to 2:30pm Location: #66 Bloomfield Rd, Sundridge Details: Free for vendors to sign-up (please email us) and free for the community to attend. With restrictions finally lifted, it is time to rediscover wellness with free mini massages, free yoga, fitness, nutrition, samples & demos, 4D interactive experience for kids to learn about anatomy and a chance to touch life-like models of fat & muscle. There will be fitness gear prizes and wellness basket raffles, as well as a healthy lunch by the Almaguin Lions as they raise money for a dock for swimming lessons. AlmaguinLions@gmail.com www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong Strong 2022 Canada Day Celebration Date: June 25, 2022 / Time: 4 pm until 11 pm Details: Proposed Canada Day Itinerary (subject to changes)
Sundridge – Strong Recreation Committee Canada Day Celebration Date: July 1, 2022 Location: Village of Sundridge Lion’s Park Details: Parade, Magic Show, Games, Lakeland “Touch-a-Truck”, BBQ, Fireworks. For more details contact the Sundridge Village Office at (705)384-5316 Eagle Lake Canada Day Celebration Date: July 2, 2022 Location: Eagle Lake Details: Fireworks Display For more details check out Facebook South River Brewery Canada Day Celebrations Date: July 2, 2022 from 8pm Location: South River Brewery Details: $10 cover - The Bent River Band, Check out South River Brewery Facebook page Burks Falls Art and Crafts Club Date: Every second Saturday starting July 2nd Details: Heritage Centre, Magnetawan - 11am - 2pm Demonstrating arts in Magnetawan. For more details contact Burks Falls Art Club
3:30 - 4:30 pm - Parade commences at 4 pm from 21 Main (Money Tree) St to 112 Main St (SCPS) Participants Lineup on Mill St at 3:30 pm (Judging by Mayors 3:30 pm) 4:30 - 5:30 pm - O’Canada, Raising of Flag, RC Legion, Introduce MP (TBD), Acknowledgements/Announcements, Cake Cutting 5:30 pm - Kids game/activities, face painting 5:30 pm - BBQ, food providers, serve cake 5:30 - 7:30 pm - Northern Lights Steel Orchestra 7:30 - 8:30 pm - Mystery Entertainer 8:30 – 9:30 pm - Shatira Jackson - Singing 9:30 - 10 pm - Local Entertainers/Music Playlist 10 - 11 pm - Firework Display (dusk) Contact: Kim Dunnett, SSJ Rec Committee Secretary or Jody Baillie, SSJ Rec Committee Chair; jbaillie@strongtownship.com For more information: https://www.facebook.com/ssjrecreation
21
Kids Multi-Sports Camp Date: July 4th-8th & 11th-15th 2022 Location: 105 Water St. Sundridge, ON Registration: at the Wellness Event Details: Affordable and super fun introduction to sports! Healthy and organic snacks/lunches provided by the Almaguin Highlands Lions. We will be introducing sports in a fun way, so kids can find out what they love! www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SUMMERevents
Magnetawan Music in the Park Saturdays from 7pm to 8:30pm / July 23 to September 3 Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com
Discovery Routes Community Bike Ride Date: July 6, 2022 Time: Registration opens at 8:30am, First ride starts at 10am Location: 63 Henry Street, the Faith Chapel (Extra parking at the Sprucedale Community Centre Details: Registration is $5 ($10 for a Family) and includes post-ride snack. Register on-site the day of the event. This event offers 2, 6 and 15km out-and-back routes on a traffic controlled course. A free pre-ride bike inspection provided by Parry Sound Bikes on the day of the event. Kids, get your parents out for a ride and get your summer in gear in #Sprucedale! www.facebook.com/SprucedaleEvents sprucedalebikeride@gmail.com or call the Township Office at: (705) 685-7901
Magnetawan Art in the Park Saturdays from 7pm to 8:30pm / July 23 to September 3 Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com Kearney Regatta Dates: July 30th and 31st, 2022 Location: Town of Kearney Details: Raffles, Childrens Land Sports, Cardboard Boat Races, Dog Show, First Annual Pie and Hot Dog Eating Contests, and more at this 65+ year old tradition! https://www.facebook.com/KearneyRegatta Sundridge Sunflower Festival Date: August 6, 2022 Location: Main St, Sundridge and Village of Sundridge Lion’s Park Details: Almaguin’s biggest summer festival – over 140 vendors, great street entertainment, children’s activities, and street dance. For more information, please visit www.sunflower-festival.com
Katrine Family Baseball Tournament Date: July 8 - 10, 2022 - Keep updated by checking out Facebook Details: $150 per team – must have 3 men, 3 woman, and 3 kids For more details contact Danika McCann – Township of Armour (705) 382-3332
Magnetawan - Heritage Day Date: August 13, 2022 Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com
Burk’s Falls and District Historical Society – In partnership with The Township of Armour - Heritage Day 2022 Date: July 9, 2022 / Time: 11 am – 3 pm Details: Free Admission – Located at the Watt Century Farm House Heritage Centre - 827 Chetwynd Road, Burk’s Falls, ON Contact: Charlene Watt – Township of Armour (705) 382-3332 https://www.facebook.com/Burks-Falls-District-HistoricalSociety-530066413807261
Magnetawan - Drive-in Movie Night Date: August 12 & 13, 2022 Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com
Firefighter Challenge Date: July 9, 2022 / Time: 12pm Details: Located at Heritage Day (across the road) at 838 Chetwynd Road, Burk’s Falls, ON Contact: Charlene Watt – Township of Armour (705) 382-3332 https://www.facebook.com/Burks-Falls-District-HistoricalSociety-530066413807261
Photography by Kate Hood
Emsdale Agricultural Society Fair Date: August 27th 2022 / Time: 10 am – 4 pm Details: Theme is “A Time to reconnect” Pur Annual Fair will be located at 54 Mccrandle Street Novar this year. lots of music, games for ALL ages and lots more Contact: Samantha Macleod (705) 571-1122 For more information: https://emsdaleagriculturalsociety.ca/
22
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
HAZMAT DAY Date: August 27, 2022 / Time: 10am – 2pm Details: Municipalities able to attend: Village of Burk’s Falls, Village of Sundridge, Village of South River, Township of Armour. Township of Joly, Township of Machar, Township of McMurrich/ Monteith, Township of Ryerson, and Township of Strong Contact: Danika McCann (705) 787-5398 For more information: Almaguin Recycling Initiative | Facebook Armour, Ryerson, Burks Falls Agricultural Society Fair Date: Sept 5th, Keep updated by checking out Facebook Details:With free Inflatables and climbing wall courtesy of Armour Township, Ryerson Township and the Village of Burks Falls. Heavy Horse Pull, Petting Zoo, Musical Entertainment. Also our Exhibits and Vendors. Contact Wilma Robert (705) 382-2022 Rockin the Ridge - Bikers Battling Cancer Date: TBC - Check Facebook Location: SSJ Arena & Agricultural Grounds Details: Live music, offsite camping, vendors and daily events. For information - www.bikersbattlingcancer.ca
For the most up-to-date information on events, please visit: Your Municipal websites
Annual Spaghetti Dinner Date: TBC - Check Facebook Location: SSJ Arena, Sundridge
Municipal information can be found on pages 82-83
http://www.strongagriculturalsociety.com/events-and-activities.html
Extreme Bush Race Date: TBC - Check Facebook Location: Copeman Tree Farm - 66 Bloomfield Rd, Sundridge Details: Run by the Almaguin Highlands Lions Club and all proceeds go back into the community. 5K obstacle mud run for adults. Tickets include a performance style t-shirt, victory beer and medal at the finish line. This race brings amateurs through trained athletes together in camaraderie as they conquer obstacles and cross the finish line. Strongman Competitions, archery, axe throwing, slacklines, climbing walls, ropes, mud pits, water holes and more! Super discounted tickets start in November on Black Friday and early bird tickets are on sale after.
https://extremebushrace.wixsite.com/sundridge Rough & Tumble Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: Copeman Tree Farm - 66 Bloomfield Rd, Sundridge Details: Run by the Almaguin Highlands Lions Club and all the proceeds go back into the community. 1K and 2K obstacle mud runs for kids. It will build their confidence as they conquer obstacles that they thought they’d otherwise never do. Early bird prices start in November on Black Friday. https://extremebushrace.wixsite.com/sundridge
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FALL
events
Annual Halloween Party – South River Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: South River/Machar Arena (1 Lincoln Ave, South River) Details: Come for some great children’s activities and treats. Hosted by the South River Machar Recreation Committee
South River Machar Agriculture Society Fall Fair at the South River Machar Date: September 11, 2022 Location: Arena at 1A Lincoln Avenue, South River. Details: For more information visit the Facebook page:
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation Date: September 30, 2022 / Time: TBD / Details: TBD
https://www.facebook.com/SouthRiverMacharAgriculturalSociety/
Things to do year-round
Pumpkin Hunt for LCIF Dates: September 17th, 24th, October 1st, 8th 2022 Details: Train rides, maze, lunch included, pumpkins hidden in the fields for kids to find, pumpkin painting, cookie decorating, playground, bird feeder making, and a surprise visit from Chase from Paw Patrol! http://www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions
MAGNETAWAN: Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com
Strong Agricultural Fair Date: TBC Location: 14 Albert St N, Sundridge, ON Details: For more information visit the Ontario Association of Agriculture Society Fairs website
Nordic Pole Walking - Mondays and Fridays 11am Fitness Class - Mondays and Thursdays 11:15am - 12:15am Fab, Fit and Fun Cardio - Mondays 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Almaguin Highlands Arts Council Artscape Show and Sale Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: TBD Details: A diverse and vibrant show of art made possible by the talented people in the Almaguin Highlands. Details and locations visit: www.almaguinhighlandsartscouncil.com Annual Fall Pumpkin Hunt Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: Copeman Tree Farms, Bloomfield Rd, Sundridge Details: Hundreds of pumpkins are hidden throughout the fields of Copeman Tree Farms andkids get to pick a their perfect pumpkin to take home. There is pumpkin painting, food and drinks, wagon rides, cookie decorating, bird feeder making, a kids, maze, free raffle, win a big carving pumpkin. For tickets: www.FreshlyCutTrees.wix.com/CopemanTreeFarms
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
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Pickleball - Tuesdays 10am - 11:30 am & 6pm - 7:30pm Yes to Yoga - Thursdays 6:30pm - 7:30pm Archery - Monday evenings 6:00pm - 8:00pm TOWNSHIP OF ARMOUR: Katrine Community Centre Square Dancing Tuesdays at 7pm / Cost: $5 Contact: Dawn Corless - Township of Armour https://www.facebook.com/kccactivecommunityteam Bingo Night First Saturday of each month Contact: Dawn Coreless - Township of Armour https://www.facebook.com/arbfasfm
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
events WINTER
Almaguin Christmas Angels Date: November 15th to December 15th, 2022 Details: Please visit our Angel’s tree inside Foodland in Sundridge and pick an anonymous WishList off the tree. Each WishList is a local senior who has recently lost their loved one, or may otherwise be spending Christmas alone this year. You can become an Angel by sponsoring a WishList ($25-$35 eTransfer). The Lions will purchase the gifts, wrap, and deliver them before Christmas. If you are a senior and you’d like to be blessed with an angel this year, please call (705) 492-4950 and your information will be confidential. AlmaguinLions@gmail.com www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong
Annual Christmas in the Village – South River Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: South River/Machar Arena (1 Lincoln Ave, South River) Details: Hosted by the South River Machar Recreation Committee, Public skating, sleigh rides and other activities. South River Lions Winterfest Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: South River/Machar Arena (1 Lincoln Ave, South River) Details: Pancake breakfast and family dance. For details call Jamie at (705) 386-2177 Armour and Ryerson Christmas Craft Show Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: Armour and Ryerson Details: Dawn Corless (705) 224-3657 or Wilma Robert (705) 382-2022
Katrine Kids Christmas Date: December 3, 2022 / Time: TBD Details: You must register when registration opens Contact: Danika McCann – Township of Armour (705) 382-3332 https://www.facebook.com/kccactivecommunityteam
Almaguin Highlands Trails Club Date: January to February 2023 Details: Discovering the trails of Almaguin shouldn’t be a solo venture. Join the club and hike, ski, and bonfire together! www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong
Tree Lighting Ceremony Date: November 26, 2022 / Time: 4 pm Details: The annual tree lighting ceremony follows the Sundridge Santa Claus Parade with the following; Tree lighting, Tour of Lights by horse and wagon, Meet Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, elves and reindeer – parent photo op, Games and activities. Hot chocolate and coffee, Bonfire, Santa Letter Mailbox, Music Contact: Kim Dunnett, SSJ Rec Committee Secretary For more information: https://www.facebook.com/ssjrecreation
Almaguin Lions Hockey Clinics Date: January to February 2023 (Dates based on rink availability) Contact: (705) 492-4950 / AlmaguinLions@gmail.com www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong Details: We understand the cost of hockey can be daunting, so let your kids try hockey before you commit to the big cost! We introduce hockey in a fun way and with minimal gear required.
Burk’s Falls Santa Claus Parade Date: December 3, 2022 / Time: 6:30 pm Details: To register your float please contact Danika McCann at (705) 787-5398 ($20.00 – Cash prizes!!!) For more information: Burk’s Falls Santa Claus Parade | Facebook Sundridge – Strong Santa Claus Parade Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: Main St. Sundridge Details: Call the Sundridge Municipal Office at (705) 384-5316 or find us on Facebook.
Photography by Nghe Tran
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
SPRING Almaguin Highlands Trails Club Date: June to July 2022 Details: Discovering the trails of Almaguin shouldn’t be a solo venture. Join the club and hike, ski, and bonfire together! www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions www.AlmaguinLions.wixsite.com/Strong
Easter Egg Hunt for LCIF Date: April 8th, 2023 Details: Thousands of eggs hidden in the fields! Find a golden egg and win a prize! Train rides, maze, lunch included, egg decorating, cookie decorating, playground, bird feeder making, and a surprise visit with the Easter Bunny! http://www.facebook.com/AlmaguinLions Annual Easter Egg Hunt Date: TBC Check Facebook Location: Copeman Tree Farms, Bloomfield Rd Sundridge Details: *Tickets go on sale in January and sell out fast! 10,000 Easter eggs filled with chocolate, candy, and toys! Find a golden egg and win a big prize basket. A kids maze, train rides, egg decorating, cookie decorating, free raffle, food and drinks included, goodie bag for the kids, special character guests and more! For tickets: www.FreshlyCutTrees.wixsite.com/CopemanTreeFarms
events
Glow Easter Egg Hunt for Teenagers TBC Check Facebook Location: Copeman Tree Farms, Bloomfield Rd Sundridge Details: This is the first annual glow in the dark Easter egg hunt for ages 13-17yrs. We have very special Easter eggs that light up and they will be filled with all the good stuff! Tickets will include a hot dog and drink, and there will be awesome prizes to win in the free raffle! Keep an eye on our Facebook page or website for tickets and more information: www.FreshlyCutTrees.wixsite.com/CopemanTreeFarms Shooters Rendezvous 26 th Annual Gun Show and Exhibition Date:TBC Check Facebook Location: SSJ Arena, 14 Albert St. Sundridge Details: Challenge your PAL. Bring your license and come out to buy. Over 100 vendors. Air gun and Archery ranges on site. For details visit: http://www.eaglelakegunclub.ca/
FARMER’S markets South River Famers Market Day: Saturday in July and August Location: South River Fairground Strong Agricultural Society Weekly Yard Sale Day: Saturday Time: 8:00 AM- 12:00PM Runs From: May 2023 – Labour Day Weekend 2023 (except Canada Day weekend) Location: SSJ Arena, 14 Albert Street, Sundridge Contact: Harold O’Brien – 705-384-0711 Magnetawan Farmers Market Saturdays from 10am to 1pm Location and details contact: Laura Brandt (705) 387-3947 ext.1002; lbrandt@magnetawan.com Photography by Kate Hood
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Photography by Kate Hood
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Drifting Down
Midlothian Road BY
Adrienne Mazzuchelli Adrienne Mazzuchelli
PHOTOGRAPHY
Lingering by the Heads that Scream - Life, What is it But a Dream?
O
The Screaming Heads
Starting down Midlothian Road, we voyaged directly to the rest of
n a sunny August day, my partner and I jumped into the car
Peter Camani’s screaming heads at Midlothian Castle. His estate
to celebrate his birthday with a road trip through the Almaguin
reveals a vast rolling landscape speckled with his concrete creations,
Highlands. Our first stop was Burk’s Falls, a village ‘where everybody
bountiful gardens, a cable ferry crossing a stream, geodesic domes,
is a somebody,’ and we strolled along the Heritage River Walk; a
peacocks, and more. A creative’s mind meandering across the
covered bridge spanning the Magnetawan River and the village’s
countryside. The location displays Camani’s work, but it is far from
namesake waterfalls. The bridge takes you from downtown to
a solo show; he has built quite a community with people working on
the Burk’s Falls Welcome Centre, the hub for Almaguin Highlands
the land, and visitors of all ages exploring the inspiring collision of
tourist information. Here we found a sneak peak of Peter Camani’s
nature and art. At this real-life Wonka-Wonderland with less sweets
art; a monument to local Greg Boyes, World Champion Arm
and white rabbits, we spent a leisurely time wandering and reveling,
Wrestler, and a small example of what you will find just up the road
interpreting the art as we moved through the property trails in the
at Peter’s Midlothian Castle, single screaming head.
golden afternoon.
History of a Name A lover of language and history, I always want to learn the etymology of a word. This location is now named after Midlothian, Scotland, deriving from the middle ‘Mid’ and ‘Lothian’ which has debated origin, ranging from King Lot, and the Celtic god of commerce, to a ‘dark muddy steam’ or ‘bright and shining.’ On this day, the bright and shining definition resonated.
SCREAMING HEADS Park and Trails are open from Sunrise to Sunset. Free Admission Burk’s Falls, Ontario
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Midlothian Cemetery After this, we kept heading west and had to stop at the striking abandoned Midlothian Cemetery. A common stop for us on road trips, the cemetery’s peaceful park, interesting stones, and antique sign gave us another moment to explore and photograph. We read the historic names of people who had been in this area, living their lives before us, and drew parallels between the monuments of Midlothian we had seen so far.
Unmarked Nature Continuing our journey down the road, we weaved past ponds and forests. We stopped on the roadside for another break and were confronted with a deep silence, the innominate forest was so quiet. The trees were such a vibrant shade of green, and they lined up to create a pleasing symmetry. From our start in the town, moving through the Screaming Heads, then to the quiet cemetery, we ended our Midlothian trip in the Almaguin Highlands, sure to be back again to explore and frolic in the future.
“... we spent a leisurely time wandering and reveling, interpreting the art as we moved through the property trails in the golden afternoon.”
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Chestnut Park® Real Estate Award Recipient For Outstanding Sales Performance Chairman’s 2020 & 2021, Vice-Chairman’s 2018-2019, President’s 2017 Direct: 705 571 2534 | Office: 705 789 1001 dawnmash@vianet.ca | DawnMashinter.com Chestnut Park® Real Estate Limited, Brokerage 2-59 Main Street East Huntsville, ON | ChestnutPark.com This is not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with a broker.
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Taking the Road
LESS PAVED I Jennifer McCourt PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Monette BY
t has been called the next frontier in cycling. The gravel bike entered the cycling marketplace less
than a decade ago and it has seen an absolute explosion in popularity. With its grippy tires and drop [handle] bars, the gravel bike is quick on pavement, but also capable of conquering more technical off-road trails. That ability to go anywhere makes riding a gravel bike feel like you’re a kid again! Couple that with a ‘gravel’ community that is inclusive and not concerned with who comes first and you’ve got the makings of a cycling revolution. . Unlike a city ride, a self-supported gravel cyclist can ride uninterrupted for hours, exploring new places on and off the beaten path. Across the Almaguin Highlands there are 100s of kilometers of backroads, some maintained by municipalities or local roads’ boards, and still others forgotten over time, tracing the original roads into the Northern reaches of Ontario. One such old road, the inspiration for Northern Ontario’s first major gravel cycling event, is the Old Nipissing Ghost Road. Ontario’s first major gravel cycling event, is the Old Nipissing Ghost Road.
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“Unlike a city ride, a self-supported gravel cyclist can ride uninterrupted for hours, exploring new places on and off the beaten path.”
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A
quick history lesson: After the signing of the Robinson-Huron
And for the next 100 years, the Old Nipissing Road, faded from
Treaty of 1850, the Nipissing Colonial Road was built to give lumber
its former bustling, glory, became a playground for adventure-
companies access to the area’s vast tracts of timber-rich forest and to
seekers and a source for companies still interested in extracting
lure pioneers north with the prospect of free land. For years to come,
its natural resources. In the early 1990s, a local group of trail
stagecoaches bumped along the road between Rosseau and the
enthusiasts, the Forgotten Trails Association, teamed up with
prospering Village of Nipissing. However, by the turn of the century
Discovery Routes to have the Old Nipissing Road designated as
with the white pine forests exhausted and settlers disillusioned with
part of the Trans Canada Trail. It became one of the very first
the farming potential and harsh northern climate, the Old Nipissing
sections of the Trail in Ontario with its history commemorated in
Road fell into disrepair. The final blow was in 1886 when the Northern
plaques telling tales of the classic Canadian struggle of survival in
Extensions Railway originally planned between Gravenhurst and
a land that could be as cruel as it is beautiful.
Callander re-routed away from the Nipissing Road. Fast forward to 2018 and a chance sighting of the Commanda Museum by Matt Foulk, an avid Toronto cyclist and history buff originally from the UK. Pulling off the 522 to read the informational plaque he was immediately drawn to the history of the area and eager to explore the Old Nipissing Road on two wheels. Three weeks later he returned with his gravel bike and rode solo from Commanda down to Magnetawan. What followed were three years of exploratory rides, research and discussion and finally in August 2021 the Ghost Gravel test event became a reality. Fifteen cyclists from across Ontario were handpicked to try out a challenging 140km route and the response
“
34
from the riders and the community was overwhelmingly positive.
“That ability to go anywhere makes riding a gravel bike feel like you’re a kid again! ”
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“
“The event promises to put Almaguin Highlands on the map as a destination for cyclists with a passion for adventure and exploration.”
Emboldened with that success and the lifting of pandemic restrictions August 20, 2022 will be the return of the Ghost Gravel with an increased ridership of 60. Two routes will be on offer to riders, a 150km and 100km option, starting and ending at South River Brewing Co. with funds being raised for mental health charity CAMH. Local, national and international sponsors have come on board with partners including South River Brewing Co., Parry Sound Bikes, and Cannondale; support from organizations including Almaguin Highlands Economic Development (ACED) and Discovery Routes is strong. The event promises to put Almaguin Highlands on the map as a destination for cyclists with a passion for adventure and exploration. Find out more at ghostgravel.com. For cyclists who prefer a smoother ride or just like to go it alone, Discovery Routes in partnership with ACED has developed a number of self-guided rides throughout Almaguin Highlands including road, gravel and mountain bike adventures. Check them out at discoveryroutes.ca/experiences.
35
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
36
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“
“It is an account of many “firsts” from swimming, to running full tilt down the dock to create the biggest splash...”
Cottage Log Book... BY
Barb Low
PHOTOGRAPHY
I
Barb Low
A simple
am not one to keep a journal, but when we inherited my husband’s parents’ forty-year-old Lake Bernard
cottage in 1995, I started a summer log book. Our sons were two and four; we were lucky to have every July and August to make The Loft our summer home. And thus began the annual ritual of documenting our happy place for almost twenty years.
38
M
y Labour Day task while the cottage’s closing happened around me, was to
write down everything. The last week of August was spent with the four of us making individual lists of events, stories, visitors, wildlife, anecdotes, disastrous weather, monopoly wins, renovations, side trips, and train sightings. My whole day was taken up creating a cohesive diary from the four differing yet important viewpoints. Inevitably many addenda were added, followed by point form lists of “things we forgot to put on our list”. It is a reminder of simpler days and times to cherish. It is an account of many “firsts” from swimming, to running full tilt down the dock to create the biggest splash, to not being allowed to jump off the end of the dock because it’s too shallow now for a six foot teen. It follows through paddleboat boundaries extending each year, to getting in an open kayak, to getting in a closed kayak, to saving for a power boat, to the earning of the Boaters Permits, to the learning of driving the boat. It documents the location of that magical spot in the middle of a deep Lake Bernard where you can anchor the boat and stand on the shoal chest deep to wave at passersby. It highlights the best picnic and wave jumping spots and magical forest walks. It is a running account of our summer life and our sons’ growth and development from toddlers to young men. I even kept their lists when they were old enough to write their own. From a seven-year-old phonetic speller’s list in 2000: “fishing green bredg, bisikol, tobing, beldoser, got sik trowup sploiderd on Peter.” (translation: fishing from the green bridge, bicycle, tubing, bulldozer, got sick threw up and splattered on Peter [we still chuckle over that episode]). From toddler to teen; from Thomas the Tank engine train sets taking over the living space, to mountain bike paths and jumps; from dirt box to Kidz Klub fort to golfing off the dock – it’s all there. I am amazed at all the different activities we did over the years – all the Monopoly and other games or card tournaments and the rainy day video binging (the only technology allowed was an old VCR). When we had long spates of rain, we’d head out in search of sun and inevitably found it, sometimes as far as Parry Sound, North Bay or Sudbury. Every summer we did read aloud novels which were based on different themes or authors. That was a very special nighttime routine: both boys in the loft with me reading from below. All the “adult” books that we read over the years are listed in each summer’s entry. And we had names for everything: Big Curve Hill, Little Puff and Big Puff Hills, The Long and Short Swamp, Chapel Rock, Blueberry Hill, the Sand Dunes, Birch Cove, White Sands!
W
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
hen did we put the new septic in? When did we replace
the water pump and the hot water tank or get the new flooring? When was that bad storm that had everyone quickly taking in their docks? Or the time the road flooded so badly that our neighbour had a waterfall to the Lake? When was that tornado that touched down on the east side? It’s all there. And it contains records of friends and family and cottage folk get-togethers and a way to remember those dear ones who are gone, but are mentioned fondly in that simple cottage log. Qualified Associate Financial Planner
TM
Although discontinued when we retired to Lake Bernard permanently in 2012, it remains a marvel of memories and one that I look forward to sharing with next cottage generation.
“It is a reminder of simpler days and times to cherish.”
PARRY SOUND MUSKOKA LIVING
Sharon Wilson Broker
705-746-0785
47 James St., Parry Sound ON P2A 1T6 Bus: 705-746-9336 Email: info@sharonwilsonrealestate.com
40
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A Dedicated
Professional. I’m passionate about Almaguin Highlands and North Muskoka and take every opportunity to promote the area to my friends, family and clients. I’m also passionate about providing the very best in real estate service and representation. For sellers, I take an exhaustive approach using a full suite of marketing preparation and promotion to ensure that the best price and terms are realized. For buyers, my goal is to ensure that you make the best possible decisions and are aware of all the possibilities and opportunities that the Almaguin Highlands and North Muskoka has to offer. Helping you in cottage country!
Emilio Foffano SALES REPRESENTATIVE
705.788.6553
emilio@emiliosellsmuskoka.com
emiliosellsmuskoka.com
emiliosellsmuskoka
Emilio Foffano - North Muskoka Cottages and Homes
2021
Not intended to solicit properties already listed for sale, or buyers under contract.
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Life’s a BEACH It’s time to have Fun in the SUN! ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BY
T
Brenda Abram Nakamura B & B Nakamura
PHOTOGRAPHY
ime to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Unplug,
unwind, relax and have Fun in the Sun. More than ever, people need to carve out of their busy schedules a large slice of self-care and time for themselves and their families to get a mental recharge. Almaguin Highlands is a place of connection and beauty. When we embrace nature and our inner child, life just slows down. We breath deeper and our spirits are lighter. It will be no wonder if you will never want to leave.
“This is a place where fun times happen and memories are made." It was 1961, I was the youngest of five children and my siblings bugged our dad every day of the summer “take us to the beach”! We’d load up the station wagon till it was bursting. On Hwy. 11 heading north, we would travel for hours and hours on a gravel road to paradise. Barely 10 min. from our Hamilton home we would begin to whine to our parents, “Are we there yet?” It seemed the trip took forever, thank goodness that travelers today have a beautifully paved divided highway that cuts the commute in half.
Over the years we would
stay at several different beach cabin rentals throughout the breathtaking Almaguin Highlands. The sand castles and floating on a raft was my favourite part, while the guys spent their time fishing and boating. Finally one day Dad said, “ if you love the beach so much, I’ll buy you the biggest beach I can find.” Dad’s dream came true when he ended up at Sunlit Bay in Restoule and purchased a 10 acre waterfront beach property in 1963 for our family, but he also wanted to offer a northern getaway for the city folk. This is a place where fun times happen and memories are made. It is located on beautiful Lake Restoule, situated in the northern part of the Almaguin Highlands. The 9-mile lake is home to seven small islands and various surrounding lakes.
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
When I took over Sunlit Bay from my parents in 1999, my three boys were young and full of creative energy. They entertained themselves for hours with crayfish hunting in the rivers and catching frogs amongst the lily pads. Evenings were spent roasting marshmallows over the campfire in the glow of sunsets with the most amazing pink skies you have ever seen. Today, vacationers from all over enjoy a private, natural, sandy beach; the perfect place to enjoy a day filled with swimming, paddling, reading, resting and making new memories that last a lifetime. It attracts the outdoorsy type who love the quiet nature sounds of loons calling and a crackling camp fire, while stargazing the amazing northern sky.
“Almaguin Highlands is a place of connection and beauty. When we embrace nature and our inner child, life just slows down. We breath deeper and our spirits are lighter. It will be no wonder if you will never want to leave.”
47
E
veryone deserves a getaway! Stay in a cozy lakeview cabin,
beach Bunkie, or experience the adventure of pitching a tent. Your waterfront retreat will be so relaxing and refreshing it will feel like time has stopped. Embrace nature by hiking through the forest trails at the nearby Restoule Provincial Park. Almaguin Highlands has many pockets of interesting Artisans to visit. Boards Honey or Stonethrow pottery are just a few highlights visitors can enjoy. In Sunlit Bay, Restoule, you can shop and experience colorful finds at the quaint ‘Love My Sarong Shop’. Whether you spend the day at the beach, play games, shop, cook on an open fire or eat at a local delicious restaurant, it’s always fun in the sun in the Almaguin Highlands!There has been lots of talk in Almaguin about the popularity and prices of property increasing in the area. Some have predicted that all this activity will disappear with the pandemic, but there is another view to consider. In the past year, many people experienced cottage life for the first time and loved it. As they basked in the sun, paddled in the sparkling water and felt fully relaxed and rejuvenated by the peace and quiet of this northern haven, many have wondered what it would be like to live here, a place where traffic sounds are replaced by loon calls and where recreational opportunities abound just outside their door. For those of us who have lived in this wilderness wonderland for years, we are not shocked by the number of new faces we have been seeing in the area; what surprises us is how long it took for people to discover what we have known all along, this region is a fabulous place in which to live, work, and play!
Fun Fashion - Water Toys 5 MINS DRIVE FROM RESTOULE PROVINCIAL PARK
7759 HWY 534
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Of residents have POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION
INDUSTRIES
Services Inc.
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS
LAKE NIPISSING
POPULATION
2016 ....... 7,711 2011 ....... 7,523 2006 ....... 7,239 2001 ....... 7,258
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69 124
The top 3 industries are CONSTRUCTION, RETAIL, & HEALTH CARE & SOCIAL ASSISTANCE
GEORGIAN BAY
Across 16 COMMUNITIES
18%
Of residents are SELF-EMPLOYED
Find your ideal job in the Almaguin Highlands area at:
OCCUPATIONS
DEKLAN
Most people work in TRADES & TRANSPORT OCCUPATIONS
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
women in Almaguin Celebrating Inspirational BY
Courtney Metcalf, ACED
F
or International Women’s Day (March 8) this year, the
Almaguin Highlands Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Almaguin Community Economic Development (ACED), set out to recognize influential women in Almaguin, whether they own a business, volunteer, or break gender norms and biases. These are 3 women who were nominated multiple times, really highlighting their positive influences in the community. Here are their stories:
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“I’ve always surrounded myself with successful women who are strong, independent and walk their own path without being influenced by outside forces.” - Margaret McDonald, 89 Main
Photography by Kate Hood
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Margaret McDonald Business Name: 89 Main
What town do you operate your business/volunteer in? Sundridge What do you love about Almaguin, making you want to go above and beyond in the community? When you get to a certain age, you start to think differently about your life, your working career and your personal career. Before COVID I was overworked, stressed, and I really had no thought of moving back until I started coming up here again. Every time I came to the area, I felt so relaxed and at home. It made me feel that sense of community that I think I was missing in the city. When the opportunity to move back presented itself, the answer was yes, because I needed that change. When I moved back, I thought I would know nobody, but a lot of people are moving back now so I feel like I know everybody. Sundridge feels like home and has that sense of community. Since I’ve been back, it’s been exciting to have people come into the store who are so friendly and really rooting for me and really wanting me to succeed.
is a series of problems that need to be solved. If you take away the emotional factors of the problem, every problem has a solution, you just need to figure out what it is. I’m excited for them, even in this terrible economic situation. Every generation has hardships, and our kids will have it hard, but there is always a way to figure it out. I’ve taught them to be brave and strong and resilient.
What message would you have for other women in the community looking to start up a business/volunteer in the community? I think starting a business is great as long as you get into the business for the right reasons; it should never be about money. I had to let that go and make it about the business and not about the money. Its about investing in your business and letting go of the fear of not making enough. You can be successful if you have the desire and the passion.
What woman inspires you/ who do you admire the most? I definitely have a huge appreciation for any woman who has the resilience and strength to open a business. It wasn’t until I got into business that I realized how hard it is to balance the business, home, and personal life. So I have so much respect for anyone who has the bravery and desire to open a business. I’ve always surrounded myself with successful women who are strong, independent and walk their own path without being influenced by outside forces. Just hugely successful people within my industry, mentors; I’ve always surrounded myself with these types of women and I’ve always learned so much from them.
Surround yourself with a solid team of people that are willing to give you the time and assistance to help you be successful. The start-up costs of a brick-and-mortar business have been huge, so having a group of people who can help and want to give back is so important. I want to volunteer in the same way to help other new businesses in the area. That is so important in the success of a start-up.
As far as celebrity influences go, I’ve always admired Gwyneth Paltrow because she’s so diversified; she’s an actress, business owner and writer. There are so many facets to her personality that I find fascinating.
Also do your research on funding and financial assistance because there are tons of support for women in business. Make sure you look into what you are eligible for, and these little things can add up to help your business.
Jennifer Farquhar – she is amazing! She is such an inspiration with how resilient she is, she never speaks negatively and is such a positive person.
This is a passion for me, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do, and starting a retail store has been a dream. I came from a different industry, which has maybe helped me because I can change with the way the retail environment is constantly changing. For example, I can look at purchasing from unconventional suppliers.
What are you most proud of in your career/ life? What I am most proud of is my kids. I have 2 girls and I have raised them to be strong independent women and I am excited for them. I understand the environment is tough for anybody, but I feel that because I was a very passionate woman who would never take no for an answer, I’ve taught them how to be strong women. I think life
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Katy McGregor
Business Name: Northern Disposal and Sanitation What town do you operate your business/volunteer in? Armour Township What do you love about Almaguin, making you want to go above and beyond in the commwunity? I don’t just volunteer in Almaguin, I volunteer in all surrounding communities including Muskoka. I think going above and beyond in any community speaks volumes. It’s important. We started a business 16 years ago, and we didn’t realize how hard it was going to be. Its about creating credibility for you as an individual and as a business. I’ve been involved in many different organizations and volunteered in many ways and that offers credibility to us and our business. Its difficult to volunteer and give your time, but it makes such a difference for the community and the organization.
What message would you have for other women in the community looking to start up a business/volunteer in the community? Hard work, dedication, credibility and being involved in your community are all super important. I wear many hats, I am a Rotarian, I’m a Big Sister, a member of WORC, I’m a mentor for others starting a business, I am on the AHCC and LOB Chamber, as well as the Huntsville Hospital Foundation; I am very involved. It’s hard to find the time but it is so important to me, and different organizations give me different positive feelings and I like making a difference and helping out. There’s always the sense of feeling overwhelmed, but I have such a passion for different organizations and being part of the community.
What woman inspires you/ who do you admire the most? My husband is my everything. He works extremely hard and we started our business from the ground up. I don’t think it’s a woman who inspires me most, but my husband is my number one. He is hard working, dedicated and really inspires me. He truly is remarkable in everything he does, always goes above and beyond with people and customers. We are very different people and we have learned over the years how to embrace our differences and make our business successful by working together.
Chambers speak huge volumes in the community. I was so proud when the chamber in Burk’s Falls started, and now all the surrounding municipalities and towns are a part and can get together, create awareness, and help businesses through connections with like-minded people.
What are you most proud of in your career/ life? Whether it is becoming a mother, a business owner, and a wife, I’m proud of all those things and who I have become today. I can’t just name one. Sixteen years ago we took a leap of faith and started from the ground up. We wanted to change the face of our industry. My daughter is 16, and we started this business 16 years ago, we still have a strong marriage, and we survived and pandemic; these are all things I am very proud of. We have a passion for what we do and are proud of what we do. If you don’t love what you do, you won’t find success. I love helping people and making a difference and putting people at ease.
We were awarded The Young Entrepreneur of Northern Ontario and it was such a honour to be recognized. I was also a Woman of Distinction which was such a honour. If you want to start a business, persistence is key. Hard work and dedication speak huge volumes. Being a female in a male dominated industry was one of the toughest things I’ve had to go through. Nine times out of 10 I’m meeting with men. Our industry had this misconception that our industry was dirty, and we wanted to change that. We pride ourself on hygiene, cleanliness and customer service.
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“If you want to start a business, persistence is key. Hard work and dedication speak huge volumes. Being a female in a male dominated industry was one of the toughest things I’ve had to go through.”
Our Pumping for Patients’ campaign was huge for us. We want to make a difference and we don’t want to lose the hospital. Every time we pump a septic or rent a pink portable restroom we give a donation to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation – in 7 years we have donated over $30,000.
- Katy McGregor, Northern Disposal and Sanitation
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Danika Hammond Business Name: Danika’s DJing
Volunteer: Chairman – Burks Falls Santa Claus Parade, Katrine Community Centre (after work hours) What town do you operate your business/volunteer in? Almaguin, Muskoka, and North Bay What do you love about Almaguin, making you want to go above and beyond in the community? Almaguin holds a special place in my life. I have always lived in Almaguin and love to give back. My main highlight of volunteering is seeing the smiles on not just the kids faces but the adults too. For example, the Santa Claus Parade; walking down the main street and just seeing the kids’ big smiles waiting for Santa himself and the parents’ smiles looking at their kids thoroughly enjoying themselves makes it all worthwhile.
What are you most proud of in your career/ life? My proudest moment, I feel is taking a daytime parade that had around 15 floats in it to last year having over 45 floats in a very successful nighttime parade as the Chairperson of the Parade Committee.
What woman inspires you/ who do you admire the most? My mother, Marina Hammond. This woman raised all her kids to be very community oriented. Growing up we were always involved with something within the community and volunteering our time. She has inspired me and taught me that being involved in the community not only helps the local community, but a lot of my community involvement has got me to where I am today in my career.
What message would you have for other women in the community looking to start up a business/volunteer in the community? My message to any woman of any age is that even if you may only be able to offer yourself as a volunteer for 5 hours a year, those 5 hours will not only help your community events flourish, but it will also boost your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction.
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Thank you
“My message to any woman of any age is that even if you may only be able to offer yourself as a volunteer for 5 hours a year, those 5 hours will not only help your community events flourish, but it will also boost your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction."
to all those who nominated inspirational and influential women in Almaguin! Special mention to all other women who were nominated.
- Danika Hammond, Danika’s DJing
Margaret McDonald Shanna Johnstone Jillian Peever Penny Stoker Stacey Kaurfman Ciara Ryan Lana Reading Tori Baird Nicky Kunkel Maili Carpino Jenna-Anne Webster Jaime Lyn Anderson Stephanie Parkin Lynn McIntosh Kathie Hogan Candy St. Onge
Amy Marshall Patricia Reid Lianne Moore Wendy MacCrimmon Cindy Leggett Jacquie Lockhart Jennifer Farquhar Sharon Ferchat Danika McCann Natalee Wheeler Donna Sedore Courtney Metcalf Beth Gorham-Matthews Susan Fawcett Louisa Moffitt Julia Breckinridge
Judy Throop Nicole Malloy Lauren Ryckman Kelly Raney-Taylor Nancy Rizzo Jackie Leung Braelyn Rose Julia Sutton Justine Leveque Joanne Collins Christine Stenning Susan Lawrence Katy McGregor Dulcie Pascoe Katie Howard Farah Gulzar
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Melissa Fagan Jeanette Smith Linda Beaudin Jenny Wilson Lyn Cyr Sandra Lee Bobbie-lyn Roberts Jocelyn Cunningham Dianne Young Andrea Tereszko Lyndsay Lund Kimberly Rudachyk Bridget Reid Tiff McGowan Laurie Stahlbaum Marlene Harris Lori DePeuter Jodi Armit
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PARKS &Trails ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Algonquin Provincial Park
Checkerboard Park
(Back Country) Location 1: Rain Lake Access Point (#4) Rain Lake Rd, Kearney Permits & Maps @ Kearney Community Centre. Location 2: Kawawaymog (Round) Lake, Chemical Rd, South River. Access Point Office on site for Permits. Algonquin, the first provincial park in Ontario, protects a variety of natural, cultural, and recreational features. As one of the largest provincial parks, Algonquin is diverse and offers something for nearly everyone. The Almaguin Highlands offers access to the ‘back country’ of Algonquin Park. These access points cater to the more experienced outdoor adventurists. For park conditions, maps and other information, please visit www.algonquinpark.on.ca/visit/camping/
Location: Lakeshore Dr/Pevensy Rd, Sundridge Checkerboard Park is a great spot to start your day on Lake Bernard whether you’re swimming, windsurfing or just relaxing! Complete with a sandy beach, picnic areas and washrooms.
Big Doe Lake Public Beach and Park
Doe Lake Municipal Park (Armour)
Location: 1686 Peggs Mountain Rd, Ryerson Township Situated on the North-West Shore of Big Doe Lake. Complete with picnic area, bathroom stalls and gravel boat launch.
Location: 1014 Ferguson Rd, Katrine Have a perfect family day on Doe Lake! Complete with a paved boat launch, public beach, washroom building equipped with a wheelchair ramp, beach volleyball area, basketball pad and net, swings, and playground equipment.
Brook’s Falls Park Location: 690 Deer Lake Rd, Emsdale Brook’s Falls is a great place to escape into nature. Sit and relax by the falls, tour the grounds and don’t forget to bring your picnic lunch! Brook’s Falls is an area favourite for visitors and sure to give a great outdoors experience for all ages!
Burk’s Falls Community Park & Playground Location: Houston St. (Behind Health Centre), Burk’s Falls A great spot for the kids to have fun complete with a playground, shaded picnic area, portable bathroom and badminton net.
Burk’s Falls Skateboard Park Location: Burk’s Falls Fairgrounds 220 Centre St, Burk’s Falls Offering a variety of features for BMX and skateboarding on a paved surface. Please note that all safety equipment must be worn as this is an unsupervised area.
Doe Lake Park (McMurrich/Monteith) Location: On Birch Crt off Almaguin Dr, Sprucedale This location offer all of the amenities needed for a great day on the lake. Go for a swim on the sandy beach, or have a picnic. Washrooms are available on site. Launch your boat at the nearby boat launch located at 157 Almaguin Drive.
Emsdale Community Park Location: 29 Joseph St, Emsdale The Emsdale Community Park offers a playground area, baseball diamond and ice rink. Located beside the public library and community centre, the park is a great choice for a relaxing day outside.
High Rock Lookout Park & Trails Location: 843 High Rock Rd, Sundridge Be sure to visit High Rock Lookout Park for one of the most spectacular overviews of Lake Bernard; tour the adjacent walking trail to enjoy the lake and grounds. Also features a covered picnic area, open picnic areas and benches.
Kearney Ball Diamond Location: 53 Park Rd, Kearney Amenities: Baseball Diamond and parking area Description: Baseball diamond and additional parking for Snowmobiles/ATVs in season.
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Magnetawan Public Beach and Park Location: HWY 520, Magnetawan Dock your boat at the Magnetawan Government docks or drive to this beautiful beach on the shore of Lake Cecebe. Offers a playground and public washrooms. Also features a paved boat launch at the docks and access to Ahmic Lake via the Magnetawan Locks.
Mikisew Provincial Park Location: 301 Park Rd South, South River Mikisew is the perfect family camping destination. The park offers private sunny campsites in two campgrounds, near the shores of Eagle Lake. Tent, trailer and RV campsites are available with or without electricity, on a good variety of campsites, in both campgrounds. The Park is open from May to September annually. For a list of all amenities, please visit www.ontarioparks.com/park/mikisew or call 705-386-7762.
Novar Community Park Location: 54 McCrandle St, Novar Visit our brand new children’s playground! While the kids are playing, take a walk around the community gardens. Also features an ice rink in the winter.
Pickerel Lake Park Location: 180 Kent Rd, Armour Township Offers public access to Pickerel Lake via a natural, sand and gravel boat launch and beach. Picnic area and public washroom are on site. Pickerel Lake Park is perfect for a day trip and picnic away from the crowds.
Powassan Lions Park Location: Behind the Powassan Sportsplex 433 Main St, Powassan This park is a perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon. Offers beautiful flower gardens created by the Powassan Horticultural Society. Benches and gazebo available.
Hike, canoe, camp or swim. Get out and embrace Almaguin’s Nature.
Powassan Memorial Park Location: Corner of Main St. & Memorial Park Dr., East Need a place to have a friendly gathering? We have beautiful flower gardens created by the Horticultural Society. On the warm days there are shady areas with benches for you to relax. Planning to have some entertainment at the gathering? Well, why not reserve the gazebo for free! It comes with lighting and hydro. Please contact the Municipal Office for booking information.
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P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
PARKS &Trails
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Burk’s Falls Heritage River Walk
Rainy Lake Beach and Park Location: 636 Old Rainy Lake Rd, Burk’s Falls A great location for a day in the sun on Rainy (Bartlett) Lake. Offers a picnic area, washroom and beach. Sand and gravel boat launch available with free parking.
Richard Thomas Memorial Park Location: Pickerel & Jack Lake Rd., Burk’s Falls Formerly known as Thompson Rapids. Relax and cool off in the Magnetawan River. Offers great scenery, swimming and picnic areas.
Location: Burk’s Falls Information Center Ryerson Cres. Burk’s Falls The Heritage River Walk stretches from the footbridge below the dam to the racetrack at the arena grounds. With the Magnetawan River on one side, and lush forest on the other, it is the perfect place for walking, picnicking, and sightseeing.
Ebertson School Trail Location: 3033 Hwy 518 E or 674 Stoneway Rd, Kearney Amenities: Multi-use trail Description: Rocky trail following abandon sideroad, offering a glimpse into the past
Highland Trails: The Pines
Location: 7 Glendale Heights Dr, Powassan Perfect place to play a game of soccer, or host a family event in the community centre hall available for rental. Contact the Municipal office for more information.
Location: End of Catherine Ave, Powassan The Pines, including some of the favourite trails in this area, lead up to Powassan Mountain, one of this town’s great natural attractions. A hike to the top of the mountain offers visitors a spectacular view of the surrounding highlands. A trip along the many back country roads in this area will lead you to discover antique treasures, artists, and craft studios.
Sundridge Lion’s Park and Splash Pad
Lake Bernard Trail
Location: 91 Water St, Sundridge On-site is a playground, washroom, large pavilion, boat launch, docks and parking. The newly installed splash pad was installed in memory of Stacey Stillar (Sullivan). Enjoy a day on Lake Bernard with all the amenities you need in downtown Sundridge!
Locations: Lakeshore Dr, South Bernard Lake Rd, High Rock Dr, Sundridge Experience natural beauty on the Lake Bernard Trail. This biking trail is comprised of rural road sections and offers a moderate to challenging ride. Some sections are paved where others are gravel.
Stan Darling Memorial Park
The Pines Trail
Location: Yonge and Ontario St, Burk’s Falls Also known as the Village Green, Stan Darling Park is a great spot to relax and take in some of our history. Enjoy the shade in the covered picnic area, learn about local celebrity Pete the Bear and remember our Veterans at the captured WW1 machine gun.
Location: 62 Big Bend Ave, Powassan Formerly known as the Highland Trail, The Pines is a series of interlocking loops, spanning 4.26km in the Town of Powassan. Starting to the side of the Eastholme Retirement home, the trail winds through a red pine forest that was planted in the 1930s. Interpretative stations are located at various points along the trail which detail the ecology and history of the area. Maintained by the Municipality of Powassan, The Pines is owned by a cooperative of private landowners.
South Himsworth Park
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Seguin Recreational Trail (Trans Canada) Location: Perry Township, McMurrich/Monteith Township Enjoy walking/hiking, biking, horseback riding, crosscountry skiing, snowmobiling. Motorized vehicles are permitted on the trail. Visit www.tctrail.ca to map your route!
Sprucedale Recreational Trail Location: 31 William St, Sprucedale The trail is approximately 2km and begins on a boardwalk that stretches across a solitary beaver pond and then proceeds into a forest where you will come across broad maples and high ridges. You may encounter deer, moose or beaver and all around you, there will be signs of their activity.
Forgotten Trails Location: Multiple Locations The Forgotten Trails Association creates, maintains and promotes safe and ecologically sustainable trails of natural or historical significance in the South River area. These four-season back-country trails are managed for the purpose of non-motorized recreational trail activities. The trails are managed by volunteers and promoted through local resource-based ecotourism initiatives. Visit www.discoveryroutes.ca for complete trail listing and trail head locations. You can find the Forgotten Trails Association on Facebook.
Magnetawan Municipal Trails Location: Biddy St (at the Locks), Magnetawan There are so many sights to see on this short, 3km hiking trail. View sections of Ahmic Lake and Lake Cecebe as they are connected by the Mighty Magnetawan River. The trails connect the Magnetawan Community Park, Village Locks and Historic Downtown Magnetawan.
Park to Park Trail
PARKS &Trails
Location: Access off of 1695 Emsdale Rd, Emsdale The Park to Park Trail stretches from Algonquin Provincial Park to Killbear Provincial Park. This trail system has a total distance of over 230km and welcomes both motorized and non-motorized travel. This trail is a four season trail offering access to snowmobiles in the winter.
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P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“My favourite things to do in Almaguin!
“
M
BY
Cole Farquhar
y name is Cole, I am 12 years old and I live in a great place called Almaguin. Biking and hiking are some of my favorite things to
do here. There are so many beautiful and amazing biking and hiking trails scattered all over! I love to go biking with my friends and play super fun games on the trails in Sundridge, my hometown. We play a really fun game called “Bike and Seek.” Basically, it’s hide and seek with bikes. One person is the seeker and everybody else is a hider. When the seeker starts counting, the hiders bike off to their hiding spot and when the seeker is done counting, they must go bike around and try to find the hiders. The only catch is the hiders must hide with their bike. You could also play regular hide and seek if you don’t have a bike. I spend hours playing that game with my friends and it is a lot of fun. Also, I love hiking with my family. We always go on really cool hiking trails and have picnics. There are some beautiful sights to see that I recommend you should go check out. One of my favourites is Fire Tower Trail near South River. There is another trail close to this one that I like called Moose Mountain Trail.
Photography by Kate Hood
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A
few more of my favorite things to do in Almaguin is camping,
And finally, my favorite thing to do in Almaguin is to play sports!
swimming and fishing. My family, friends, and I love to go camping
Almaguin has a bunch of great sports teams including hockey,
in many of the great camping spots here. We always do really fun
soccer, baseball, etc... Sometimes on a nice day, me or one of my
stuff like kayaking/canoeing, hiking, biking, having fires, making forts, roasting hotdogs and marshmallows, and swimming. Every year I can’t wait for swimming season! There are so many fantastic beaches to go to and have a great time in the perfect
friends will bike around and gather other friends to play team sports. We will meet at the hockey arena in Sundridge that has three really nice baseball diamonds and we play a fun game of baseball. Other times we will go to the public school and play soccer or basketball. There are so many great places to play sports.
water! Lake Bernard has a great beach that is within walking distance of my house, but sometimes we go for a drive out to Lynch Lake with a group of friends. There is a neat park in Magnetawan right across the road
Sometimes it’s just for fun with your friends, but
“There are so many amazing things to see and fun things to do, I feel pretty lucky to be living here.”
from my grandma’s house where there is a beach and playground. We launched our kayaks there last year and it was fun to paddle around. Also, I love fishing. I caught my first huge fish while ice fishing on Lake Bernard with my sister this past winter. The best part about fishing is the taste of the fish! Fishing is so fun
if you want to join a competitive team, there are lots of local opportunities. I have played for the Almaguin Ice Devils hockey team since I was first able to skate. In the summer, lots of kids go to Hockey Opportunity Camp on Eagle Lake in South River.
These are all of my favorite things to do in Almaguin, a great community for kids! There are so many amazing things to see and fun things to do, I feel pretty lucky to be living here.
whether its ice fishing or regular fishing there are some great spots and great fish!
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P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Discovery Routes
Forgotten Trails Trails # 5 through 10 are developed and maintained by the Forgotten Trails Association. The association promotes
Recreational Trails
safe and ecologically sustainable trails of natural or historical
1
significance in the South River area. The four-season back-
The Pines - 4 km (hike, snowshoe)
country trails are managed by volunteers for the purpose of
Access: Catherine Avenue (Behind Eastholme), Powassan
non-motorized recreational trail activities.
The trail is a series of loops that wind through a red pine plantation to the top of the Powassan Mountain offering
5
a spectacular view of the surrounding highlands.
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- 2.5 km (hike, mountain bike) Access: Alsace Road, Commanda The property was donated in the 70’s to preserve the
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Loxton Beaver Trail - 8.5 km loop (hike, snowshoe, mountain bike) Access: Chemical Road, Laurier Township This rugged back-country trail passes through stands of hardwood, a pine plantation and wetland areas.
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One-A-Day Trail - 1 km (hike, mountain bike)
Loring Deer Yard - 3.6 km (hike, mountain bike) Access: Little River Road, Golden Valley This trail on crown land winds around a stunning wetland. A viewing station is a great spot for spotting deer.
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snowshoe)
Access: Unnamed Forest Access Road, Laurier Township This beautiful trail offers hikers several beautiful views along the way. While it isn’t really a ‘mountain’ in the true sense of the word, hikers should be prepared for a moderately challenging climb.
JP Webster Nature Preserve/ Pat Hauffe Way
land for the enjoyment of future generations.
Moose Mountain Trail - 2 km loop (hike,
Access: Chemical Road, Laurier Township A comfortable walking trail which terminates at the picturesque One-A-Day Lake.
Restoule Provincial Park Trails - 30.7-7 km (hike, bike). The park has lots of choices for hiking and biking. Day-use fees apply.
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Laurier Fire Tower Trail - 2 km (hike, snowshoe) Access: Unnamed Forest Access Road,Laurier Township The trail wanders through a majestic hardwood forest and offers a breathtaking lookout over the Almaguin Highlands.
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Muskoka Trail - 2 km (hike, snowshoe) Access: Old Muskoka Road, South River The Muskoka Trail follows along part of the original Muskoka Road abandoned when other roads, which were easier to travel, were built in Machar Township.
10 Old Nipissing Road - 90 km (hike, mountain bike,
horse, ATV) Access: Various (Seguin Falls to Commanda) This historic colonization road nicknamed ‘Ontario’s Ghost Road’ is part of the Trans Canada Trail. While the north end and mid-section around the community of Magnetawan continue to be used and maintained as a travelled road, the north end of the road is slowly being reclaimed by nature.
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
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Discovery Routes AdventureTrail Map
is available at local shops or visit DiscoveryRoutes.ca 71
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
11 Mikisew Provincial Park Trails 1.7 – 2.3km
(hike) Access: 301 Park Road South, South River The park maintains a series of easy hiking trails through beaver meadows and upland forest. Day-use fees apply.
Recreational Trails
12 Almaguin Community Ski & Hiking Trail - 7 km (hike, ski, snowshoe) Access: Behind Almaguin High School, 21 Mountain View Road, South River These trails are open to the public for hiking yearround and groomed by volunteers for cross-country skiing in the winter.
13 Nesbitt Trail - 2.5 km (hike, snowshoe) Access: Clear Lake Road, Ardbeg The landscape around the trail is characteristic of Georgian Bay ecology with expansive bedrock ridges and significant wildlife habitat features.
14 Whitestone Lake Recreational Trail - 2.9 km
(hike, mountain bike, snowshoe) Access: North Meadow Cove Road, Dunchurch The trail weaves through a diverse mixed forest with towering hemlock and oak trees.
15 Corneila Levering Braodmeadows Trail
- 3 km loop (hike, ski, snowshoe) Access: Golf Course Road, Magnetawan This trail is located at the Ahmic Lake Golf Course and Broadmeadows Wildlife Area.
16 Magnetawan Municipal Trail - 1.2 km loop (hike,
snowshoe) Access: 4195 Highway 520, Magnetawan The footpath crosses the provincial lift locks over the Magnetawan River and leads to a small island chain that stretches across the water.
17 Heritage River Walk - 4 km (hike) Access: 170 Ryerson Cres, Burk’s Falls With the Magnetawan River on one side and forest on the other, the trail is the perfect place for walking, picnicking and sightseeing.
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
72
18 Ebertson School/Bare Rock/Stone Fence
Trail - 6.3 km (hike, ATV, snowmobile, mountain bike) Access: Multiple access points including Highway 518, Stoeger’s Road, Kearney This series of interconnected trails offers glimpses of a farming community circa 1890 as you pass through a variety of woodland terrain.
19 White’s Farm Trail/ Animosh Trail - 1 km (hiking,
biking) Access: 190 Main Street, Kearney Easy, meandering trails through former farm fields. Stream/wetland area, benches to rest on, gravel surface trail. Includes access to Animosh Trail and Horseshoe Trail (via Patton’s Rd.)
20 Horseshoe Trail - 0.6 km (hike, mountain bike,
snowshoe, dog sled) Access: Patton Road, Kearney This Trail was created by the Kearney Dog Sled Committee. The moderate trail climbs up and along a ridge above Sucker Creek.
21 Sprucedale Recreational Trail - 2 km (hike, ski,
snowshoe) Access: 31 William Street, Sprucedale The trail begins on a boardwalk that stretches across a solitary beaver pond and then proceeds into a forest where you will come across broad maples and high ridges.
22 Seguin Trail/Park-To-Park Trail - 60 km (hike,
bike, snowmobile, ATV, mountain bike) Access: Various (Emsdale to Parry Sound) The Seguin Trail is managed by the Park-to-Park Association with sections designated as part of the Trans Canada Trail. This former rail corridor is popular
year-round with all types of trail users.
23 Brooks Falls - 500 m Access: Deer Lake Road, Emsdale Short hike from the parking lot to the scenic Brooks Falls.
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Explore By Bike! From excellent trails and mountain biking to fantastic road riding, cyclists in the region will enjoy the spectacularly scenic landscapes through lush forests with frequent glimpses of picturesque lakes and meandering rivers. Several of the villages of Almaguin have outdoor bike fix stations and route maps to support cyclists. Almaguin in Motion, the local cycling club, welcomes riders to join in group rides through their Facebook page. Information regarding several of the Almaguin routes can be found at https://www.ontariobybike.ca/great-places-to-cycle/muskoka-parry-sound-algonquin/parry-sound under Magnetawan Area – Road Routes.
* Routes contain some short gravel sections
1
Powassan Circle Route*
6
Eagle Lake Circle Route*
7
Lake Bernard Cycle Route*
8
Ahmic Lake Cycle Route*
9
58 km 2
48.2 km
36.8 km 3
Sand Lake Loop* 63.6 km
42 km 5
Katrine Mini Loop 21.2 km
23.5 km 4
Screaming Heads Loop*
Doe Lake Loop* 39.5 km
AIM Triangle 63.6 km
73
On-Road Cycling Routes
Other Popular On-Road Cycling Routes in Almaguin
Paddling Routes
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1
South River - Trout Creek to Powassan - With only two short portages around hydro dams, this route offers a comfortable day’s paddle.
2
South River - Algonquin Park to South River – One of Ontario’s lost canoe routes,
3
Magnetawan River - Burk’s Falls to Ahmic Harbour – The mighty Magnetawan
the River Run offers a scenic day paddle.
River flows 175 km from Magnetawan Lake inside Algonquin Park to the community of Britt on Byng Inlet. Much of the river is navigable by canoe.
P h o t o g r a p h y b y We n d y M a c C r i m m o n
your hosts
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882 Ferguson Rd. Katrine, Ontario P0A 1L0 info@doelake.on.ca www.doelake.on.ca Call us to reserve
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THEN&NOW
Then & Now I
Zak’s BY
Aspen Heisey Kate Hood
PHOTOGRAPHY
t started with a love of food, good food. And coffee, date
Zak’s may never have happened. Many thought she was crazy
squares, lentils, chickpeas, cookbooks, pottery, and a peanut
to open a health food store in a small town. I didn’t have a firm
butter machine. Start small, but go big on the important stuff
opinion on that — I certainly didn’t know anything about retail,
that’s hard to measure and can’t be bought: enthusiasm,
but I did know Penny.
gusto, and relationships. Full to overflowing with a generous
And before I knew it, I was caught up in her verve and vision.
topping of spunk. A do-it-yourself ethos: make something out
Always laughter, with chocolate-covered everything along the
of nothing, pay down debt, almost lose it all in a fire, and…do
way, often music and singing. Always some kind of “plan” even
it again, even better.
though it wasn’t always articulated — most things depended
I met Penny 6 months after she had been struck by lightning
on serendipity, which tended to defy a written plan.
in Algonguin park with a group of campers, a young local boy
That’s what happened to me the day I drove her to Kent
lost his life, and as we became friends I understood how this
Trusses to get the countertop planed. A 12-foot by 3-foot by
effectively changed her and the course of her life, and forever
3-inch piece of exquisite white pine served as an early bonding
connecting her to this part of the world.
experience for Penny and I. We were 27, unstoppable. Well, at
Penny started Zak’s in 1986, with a love of Almaguin. If the
least Penny was. We had met just six months before; I had a
school system hadn’t already had a surplus of teachers in 1986,
babe in tow, curiosity about this whirlwind woman, and most importantly, on that day, I had a pickup truck.
76
So that particular summer day we had a job to do: this huge slab of glorious white pine needed to get planed. Penny had secured and was already paying rent on this 100-year-old building for an August grand opening of Zak’s Natural Foods, but the occupant, a local barber with a side-line of cutting huge slabs of wood that populated the soon-to-be-Zak’s space, was procrastinating leaving. Seeing an opportunity, Penny said, ”you have to compensate.” He said, ”so how about a piece of pine, will that do?” and Penny sort of went “Ding! ….counter top!!” An early example of spark, spunk and serendipity — there from the very beginning, key ingredients underlying the many transformations of Zak’s, then and now.
“We truly want people to leave happier than when they came in. It’s how we feel about getting a business going in a small town, hiring young people, giving them a groundwork being part of a team, beyond how to sell stuff: learning to pay attention to people.” Through the years, life unfolded; Penny married Tom, had two girls and lived above the South River store. I moved away in 1996, but stayed close and witnessed Zak’s major passages. Like 1997 when after twelve businesses in South River closed their doors, Penny picked up and moved her store, family and the white pine counter to Sundridge. A square-timber framing friend was enlisted to build the structure — still the focal point when you come into the store today. Zak’s thrived with more space, incorporating gifts and clothing into the health food store. Then … April 18th, 2001 Zak’s was gutted by a fire in the IGA (Foodland). It was a life-defining moment. “ my heart and soul went into Zak’s and it was gone overnight. I’m not sure I handled it all that in the best way. I wish I had been more “zen” about it. But I just wasn’t. I was really beaten and sad. I remember thinking, could I rebuild this business better than it was before, and do I want to?” I’m glad she did. In 2010 Sundridge was bypassed. It was a good time to reframe and adapt to the situation — “we’re no longer just another highway town, Sundridge is a lake town… people want to come here because Sundridge is awesome, not because they have to drive through it. Then in 2013, Tom, Penny’s husband, helped her realize a dream of expanding Zak’s into the adjacent space. “I have a picture of Tom wielding this big sledgehammer to break through a 10-inch cement block wall into the next unit - that was a huge job.” Tom laid the groundwork for the space to be a visual pleasure, complete with a gas fireplace. “We call it The Beautiful Room.”
“D
uring early covid, we went back to our grass roots - back
to baking, cooking from scratch, getting what people needed when confined to their homes. It’s always about health. People would phone the store, and we often relied on a simple “how are you doing?” and listened to their stories. We took orders and did a lot of shipping and deliveries. As important as it is to have an online presence, we are firm believers in bricks and mortar - “ It’s true that I’d be nothing without my customers, but I’d really be nothing without my staff!” What is the THEN and what is the NOW? At the core, it was, and still is, all about relationship. Zak’s NOW is infused with all kinds: staff, customers, suppliers, delivery guys, health inspectors, summer students, women’s hockey, cottagers, children and elders. “We truly want people to leave happier than when they came in. It’s how we feel about getting a business going in a small town, hiring young people, giving them a groundwork being part of a team, beyond how to sell stuff: learning to pay attention to people. “What I’m currently excited about is the “I’m-thinking-of-you” box - Zak’s has so many eclectic products - from food to fashion, books, games and socks - people phone and say - could you take (or send) my mom and dad something at Christmas (or maybe a birthday) - and then I box it up make it look fun, deliver it and say “Hi! This is from Marilyn - she loves you!” To put 36 years of a life-journey in business into a tidy, concise package is like trying to stuff a dozen porcupines into a sleeping bag, but from my perspective it has been a journey of a woman hell-bent on making a difference in a small business, by making it an adventure, always believing the best about people, following her instincts, and creating a unique intersection between people and product, relationship and service. “The Almaguin Highlands has a rich history and it feels like home - we made a life and raised our children here. I like the Zak’s tagline – happily nestled in one of the beautiful villages in the Almaguin Highlands. Lately, I’ve been having fun thinking about a new tagline for the Almaguin Highlands: We can be seen from outer space, because of the energy we generate!”
Written by Aspen Heisey…. A FOZ (friend of Zaks) since 1986
“Start small, but go big on the important stuff that’s hard to measure and can’t be bought: enthusiasm, gusto, and relationships.”
AHCHAMBE
COMMUNI
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R .C A Issue 2022/2023
in the annual Almaguin Highlands Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Directory
TY GUIDE & D I R EC TO RY
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In this Issue
Health, Wellne
IN THE BEAU
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TIFUL ALMA GUIN HIGH
Taking the Ro
GHOST GRAV
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ad Less Paved
EL CYCLING
Drifting Down
EVENT
MIDLOTHIAN ROA
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Exploring So
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FINDING HIST ORY AND ADV
Life’s a Beach
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ENTURE
+InCesplebiratioratenal Women
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THE SUN
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ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ryerson Township
Perry Township Including Villages of Novar & Emsdale Office: 1695 Emsdale Rd. P.O. Box 70 Emsdale, ON P0A 1J0 (705) 636-5941 Open Monday to Friday www.townshipofperry.ca EMSDALE COMMUNITY CENTRE: 32 Joseph St., Emsdale, ON P0A 1J0 (705) 636-5941 NOVAR COMMUNITY CENTRE: 25 Laurie St., Emsdale, ON P0A 1R0 (705) 788-7422
RECYCLING & TRANSFER STATION: 775 HWY 592N, (705) 636-0588 Summer Hours: 8AM to 4PM Closed Wed & Thurs Winter Hours: 8AM to 4PM, Monday 8AM to 12PM, Closed Wed & Thurs
KEARNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE: 8 Main St., Kearney, ON P0A 1MO (705) 636-7752 LIBRARY: 8 Main St., Kearney, ON P0A 1M0 (705) 636-5849
PUBLIC WORKS: (705) 636-5941
PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR: (705) 382-3822
Village of Burk’s Falls Office: 172 Ontario St., P.O. Box 160 Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0 (705) 382-3138 Open Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 8:00AM - 5:00PM www.burksfalls.net
RECYCLING & TRANSFER STATION: 149 King William St., Kearney (705) 636-0588 Open 9:30AM to 1:30PM Closed Wed & Thurs SAND LAKE TRANSFER STATION: Open 2 PM to 5 PM – Summer Open 2 PM to 4 PM - Winter Closed Wednesday & Thursday
KATRINE COMMUNITY CENTRE: 6 Brown’s Dr., Katrine, ON P0A 1L0 (705) 382-5019 Armour, Ryerson & Burk’s Falls MEMORIAL ARENA: 220 Centre St., Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3811
SERVICE ONTARIO: 303 Ontario St., Burk’s Falls (705) 382-9711
Municipality of Magnetawan
LIBRARY: Burk’s Falls and District Public Library 39 Copeland St. Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3327 RECYCLING & TRANSFER STATION: 2161 HWY 518W Summer Hours: 9AM to 5PM Closed Wed & Thurs ROADS DEPARTMENT: (705) 685-7609
Office: 4304 HWY 520 P.O. Box 70 Magnetawan, ON P0A 1P0 (705) 387-3947 Open Monday to Friday 8:00AM - 5:00PM www.magnetawan.com MAGNETAWAN COMMUNITY CENTRE: 4304 HWY 520 P.O. Box 70 Magnetawan, ON P0A 1P0 (705) 387-3947
RECYCLING AND LANDFILL SITE: Locations: Chapman Site: 259 Rocky Rd, Magnetawan Croft Site: 218 25th&26th Side Rd, Magnetawan For Hours, Please Call: (705) 387-3947 or visit: www.magnetawan.com PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT: (705) 349-3034
20
LIBRARY: Magnetawan Public Library 4304 HWY 520 P.O. Box 70 Magnetawan, ON P0A 1P0 (705) 387-4411
ArmourTownship Including Village of Katrine Office: 56 Ontario St., P.O. Box 533 Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0 (705) 382-3332 Open Monday to Friday 9AM to 4:30PM www.armourtownship.ca
PUBLIC WORKS: Contact main office (705)382-3138
LIBRARY: Burk’s Falls and District Public 39 Copeland St., Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3327
McMurrich/Monteith
SPRUCEDALE COMMUNITY CENTRE: 31 William St., Sprucedale (705) 685-7707
TRI- R LANDFILL & RECYCLING CENTRE: Burk’s Falls offers curb-side pickup within the village limits. Contact the village office for details. 141 Chetwynd Rd. Burk’s Falls, ON (705) 382-3332 Summer Hours: 10AM to 5PM Winter Hours: 11AM to 5PM Location Closed Tues & Wed
Armour, Ryerson & Burk’s Falls MEMORIAL ARENA: 220 Centre St., Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3811
PUBLIC WORKS: (705) 636-7029
Including Village of Sprucedale Office: Township of McMurrich/Monteith 31 William St. P.O. Box 70 Sprucedale, ON P0A 1Y0 (705) 685-7901 Open Monday to Friday 9AM to 4:30PM www.mcmurrichmonteith.com
TRI- R LANDFILL & RECYCLING CENTRE: 141 Chetwynd Rd. Burk’s Falls, ON - (705) 382-3332 Summer Hours: 10AM to 5PM Winter Hours: 11AM to 5PM Location Closed Tues & Wed
Armour, Ryerson & Burk’s Falls MEMORIAL ARENA: 220 Centre St., Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3811
Town of Kearney Office: 8 Main St. P.O. Box 38, Kearney, ON P0A 1M0 (705) 636-7752 Open Monday to Friday 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM https://townofkearney.ca
LIBRARY: Burk’s Falls and District Public 39 Copeland St., Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3327
Office: 28 Midlothian Rd Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0 (705) 382-3232 Open Monday to Friday 8:30AM – 4:00PM www.ryersontownship.ca
LIBRARY: 25 Joseph St., Emsdale, ON P0A 1J0 (705) 636-5454
LIBRARY: Burk’s Falls and District Public Library 39 Copeland St. Burk’s Falls (705) 382-3327 TRI- R LANDFILL & RECYCLING CENTRE: 141 Chetwynd Rd. Burk’s Falls, ON - (705) 382-3332 Summer Hours: 10AM to 5PM Winter Hours: 11AM to 5PM Location Closed Tues & Wed ROADS DEPARTMENT: (705) 382-5982
80
Municipal
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Municipality of Whitestone Office: 21 Church St. Dunchurch, ON P0A1G0 (705) 389-2466 Open Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 4:30PM www.whitestone.ca DUNCHURCH COMMUNITY CENTRE: 2216 Hwy 124, Dunchurch (705) 389-2466 LIBRARY: Whitestone-Hagerman Memorial Public Library 2206 Hwy 124, Dunchurch (705) 389-3311
Village of Sundridge RECYCLING AND LANDFILL SITE: 483 Forest Lake Road Phone: (705) 384-9898 Summer Hours: 9:00AM to 5:30PM Closed Wednesday & Thursday
Office: 110 Main St Sundridge, ON P0A 1Z0 (705) 384-5316 Open Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 4:00PM www.sundridge.ca
RECYCLING AND LANDFILL: York Street Landfill Site: 52 York St. Dunchurch Auld’s Road Landfill Site: 5 Auld’s Rd. RR 2, Dunchurch Phone: (705) 389-2466 Summer Hours: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 9:00AM to 6:00PM Sunday: 10:00AM to 7:00PM
SUNDRIDGE, STRONG, JOLY ARENA: Village Superintendent and Roads: 14 Albert St., Sundridge - (705) 384-5571 (705) 384-7227 LIBRARY: Sundridge-Strong Union Pubic Library 110 Main St., Sundridge (705) 384-7311
WORKING ROADS & FACILITIES: (705) 389-2466
Strong Township Office: 28 Municipal Lane P.O. Box 1120 Sundridge, ON P0A 1Z0 (705) 384-5819 Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday - 8:30AM - 4:00PM Closed to the public Wednesdays www.strongtownship.com SUNDRIDGE, STRONG, JOLY ARENA: 14 Albert St., Sundridge (705) 384-5571 LIBRARY: Sundridge-Strong Union Pubic Library 110 Main St., Sundridge (705) 384-7311 MUNICIPAL GARAGE: (705) 384-5819 Ext. 203
Joly Township
RECYCLING AND LANDFILL: Site 1: 483 Forest Lake Road Phone: (705) 384-9898 Open Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9:00AM to 5:30PM Closed Wednesday & Thursday Site 2: 950 Muskoka Road Phone: (705) 384-5690 Summer Hours (July & August) : Monday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm Thursday to Sunday 1:00PM to 5:00PM Closed Tuesday & Wednesday Winter Hours (September - June) : Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 1:00PM to 5:00PM Closed Sunday to Wednesday
SOUTH RIVER-MACHAR ARENA & COMMUNITY CENTRE: 1 Lincoln Ave, South River (705) 386-2622
LIBRARY: South River-Machar Union Public Library 63 Marie St., South River (705) 386-0222
Village of South River LIBRARY: South River-Machar Union Public Library 63 Marie St., South River (705) 386-0222 RECYLCING AND LANDFILL: Curb side garbage pickup is available in South River. Please contact the municipal office at (705) 386-2573 for more information. ROADS DEPARTMENT: (705) 386-0245
Municipality of Powassan
ROADS DEPARTMENT: (705) 386-2837
Information
LIBRARY: Sundridge - Strong Union Pubic Library 110 Main St., Sundridge (705) 384-7311
RECYLCING AND LANDFILL SITE: 483 Forest Lake Road SUNDRIDGE, STRONG, JOLY ARENA: Phone: (705) 384-9898 Summer Hours: 9:00AM to 14 Albert St., Sundridge 5:30PM (705) 384-5571 Closed Wednesday & Thursday ROADS DEPARTMENT: Contact main office (705) 384-5428
SOUTH RIVER-MACHAR ARENA & COMMUNITY CENTRE: 1 Lincoln Ave, South River (705) 386-2622
RECYCLING AND LANDFILL SITE: 111 Municipal Rd. N, South River Open Tuesday to Sunday 9:30AM – 4:30PM
22
Office: 871 Forest Lake Rd. P.O. Box 519, Sundridge, ON P0A 1Z0 (705) 384-5428 Open Tuesday to Friday 9:00AM – 5:00PM www.townshipofjoly.com
Office: 63 Marie St. South River, ON P0A 1X0 (705) 386-2573 Open Monday to Thursday 8:30AM – 4:30PM Fridays 8:30AM to 2:30PM www.southriver.ca
Machar Township Office: 73 Municipal Rd. N South River, ON P0A1X0 (705) 386-7741 Open Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 4:30PM www.machartownship.net
SERVICE ONTARIO: 2A Ontario St., Sundridge (705) 384-7022
81
Includes the former Town of Trout Creek and Township of South Himsworth Office: 250 Clark Street, Box 250 Powassan, ON P0H 1Z0 (705) 724-2813 Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri 8:30AM – 4:30PM Closed Wednesday www.powassan.net
LIBRARY: Powassan and District Union Public Library 324 Clark St., Powassan (705) 724-3618
POWASSAN SPORTSPLEX: 433 Main St., Powassan (705) 724-2537
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT: 750 Main Street (705) 724-3532
RECYCLING AND LANDFILL SITE: 40 Proudfoot Rd. - (705) 491-0146 Hours: Wed & Fri 8:00AM – 12:00PM Saturday 8:00AM – 4:00PM
TROUT CREEK COMMUNITY CENTRE: SERVICE ONTARIO: 518 Main St., Powassan 181 Main St W, Trout Creek 800-267-8097 (705) 723 5372
ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Almaguin Highlands
business Directory
Scan the code below for a list of businesses that can be found in the Almaguin Highlands. Browse based on the categories provided, or use the search engine to look for specific businesses.
https://investalmaguin.ca/business-support-investing/business-directory/
Not listed?
PLEASE EMAIL
info@ahchamber.ca
TO ADD YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR LIST!
82
members ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Meet our » Accommodations, Camps and Camping
DBL Air Conditioning and Heating
705-840-6657
Ahmic Lake Resort ahmiclakeresort.com
705-387-3853
G. F. Preston Sales and Service gfpreston.com
705-384-5368
Almaguin Campground almaguincampground.ca
705-382-3802
Just-A-Hanging justahanging.ca
705-349-1293
Caswell Resort caswellresort.com
647-986-1273
Near North Industrial Solutions facebook.com/NearNorthIndustrialSolutions
705-384-1389
Doe Lake Campground Rizzort doelake.on.ca
705-382-2740
Northern Disposal & Sanitation northerndisposal.ca
705-382-0991
Glen Bernard Camp gbcamp.com
705-384-7062
Northern Stable Supply Co. Ltd northernstablesupply.com
705-723-1234
The Northridge Inn & Resort northridgeinn.com
705-384-2252
Reuten Construction reutenconstruction.ca
705-477-5597
Voyageur Quest voyageurquest.com
416-486-3605
RLS Controls rlscontrols.ca
705-384-0011
Stinson Electrical stinsonelectrical.com
705-789-8082
» Arts, Entertainment and Events Almaguin Highlands Arts Council almaguinhighlandsartscouncil.com
705-384-0590
Kate Hood Photography / Photographer katehood.ca
705-493-7350
» Employment and Education Agilec agilec.ca
705-382-6100
Employment North 705-384-1110 employmentnorth.com/about-us/sundridge-office
» Automotive, Marine and Small Engines Bray Motors braymotors.com
705-384-5333
Dean’s Auto Care deansautocare.ca
705-387-2277
Gilroy’s Tire gilroystiresales.com
705-636-7012
Algonquin Fine Foods facebook.com/algonquinfinefoods
705-382-0707
Griffith Brothers griffithbros.ca
705-380-1814
Copperhead Distillery and Spirit copperhead-distillery.com
705-384-0111
Mac Lang Sales & Service maclang.ca
705-384-5352
Corner Wines facebook.com/cornerwinesinsouthriver
705-386-9463
Rickwards Small Motors Inc. rickwards.com
705-636-1596
Foodland - Sundridge
705-384-5378
South River Brewing Co. southriverbrewing.ca
705-792-0808
South River Freshmart
705-386-0045
The Labour Market Group thelabourmarketgroup.ca
705-474-0812
» Food and Beverage
» Construction, Contractors and Trades Bin Boss binboss.ca
705-382-2000
Boden Electric Services bodensolar.com
705-783-3625 705-499-6277
Almaguin Community Economic Development InvestAlmaguin.ca
705-571-1564
Brown’s Quarry Inc. brownsquarry.ca Cann-Dow’s Ltd
705-641-1391
Armour Township Office armourtownship.ca
705-382-3332
ClayMar Electric Ltd claymarelectric.ca
705-380-1233
Burk’s Falls & District Public Library burksfallslibrary.com
705-382-3327
Cottage Classic Docks tufftube.ca
705-636-0042
Burk’s Falls Art & Crafts Club facebook.com/BurksFallsArtAndCraftsClub
705-387-4103
Burk’s Falls & District Public Library burksfallslibrary.com
705-382-3327
» Government
83
Meet our
members join today and thrive.
Burk’s Falls Art & Crafts Club facebook.com/BurksFallsArtAndCraftsClub
705-387-4103
Chisholm Township chisholm.ca
705-724-3526
FedNor fednor.gc.ca/eic/site/fednor-fednor.nsf/Intro
705-499-5314
Kearney Township Office townofkearney.ca
705-636-7752
Kearney, Perry, Magnetawan, McMurrich/Monteith Economic Development Committee
705-349-8995
Machar Township Office machartownship.net
705-386-7741
McMurrich/Monteith Town Office mcmurrichmonteith.com
705-685-7901
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines 705-494-4084 mndm.gov.on.ca Municipality of Magnetawan magnetawan.com
705-387-3947
NECO Community Futures Development Corporation
705-476-8822
Parry Sound Muskoka Community Network pmcn.ca
705-646-7722
Perry Township Office townshipofperry.ca
705-636-5941
Perry Township Public LIbrary perrylibrary.ca/services
705-636-5454
Powassan Municipal Office powassan.net
705-724-2813
Powassan & District Union Public Library powassanlibrary.com
705-724-3618
Ryerson Township Office ryersontownship.ca
705-382-3232
Strong Township Office strongtownship.com
705-384-5819
Sundridge Village Office sundridge.ca
705-384-5316
Township of Joly
705-384-5428
Village of Burk’s Falls burksfalls.net
705-382-3138
Village of South River southriverontario.com
705-386-2573
Whitestone Municipal Office whitestone.ca
705-389-2466
» Industry and Agriculture
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Photography by Kate Hood
Hubbert’s Maple Products hubbertsmaple.com
705 384 7847
Lofthouse Manufacturing lofthouse.ca
705-382-3637
Waveform Plastics waveformplastics.com
705-386-0000
» Medical, Health and Personal Care
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Gorham Denture Clinic gorhamdentureclinic.com
705-384-1765
Near North Palliative Care Network nnpcn.com
705-497-9239
» Non Profit / Community Organizations
» Services – General, Professional & Financial
Algonquin West ATV Club algonquinwestatv.com
705-999-7262
Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan 705-495-4264 chamberplan.ca
Almaguin Highlands Arts Council almaguinhighlandsartscouncil.com
705-384-0590
647-504-7305
Burk’s Falls and District Historical Society burksfallsdistricthistoricalsociety.com
705-382-3934
Churchill McLaughlin Property Management Specialists Ltd. churchillmclaughlin.com
705-494-0765
Women’s Own Resource womensownresource.org
705-386-9672
Life Long Planning Group - Jennifer Farquhar lifelongplanninggroup.com
Screaming Heads Park
705-382-6413
almaguinhighlandstourism.ca/screaming-heads-midlothian-castle-gallery
» Real Estate Chestnut Park Real Estate - Dawn Mashinter muskokahuntsvillerealestate.com
705-571-2534
Coldwell Banker Real Estate coldwellbankerrealestate.ca/burks-falls
705-382-2323
Coldwell Banker jimstephenson.ca
705-471-6659
Realty Executives Local Almaguin Highlands Inc. 705-978-2855 Nancy Vandeburgt - ontarionorthrealestate.com Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka, Burk’s Falls 705-783-5871 royallepage.ca/en/agent/ontario/burks-falls/judy-ransome/52651 Royal LePage, Lakes of Muskoka Realty Burks Falls Office buymuskoka.ca
705-380-3136
Royal LePage - Emilio Foffano emiliosellsmuskoka.com
705-788-6553
Sharon Wilson, Broker 705-746-0785 RE/MAX Parry Sound-Muskoka Realty Ltd Brokerage parrysoundmuskokaliving.com The Greater Muskoka Group greatermuskoka.ca
705-783-4404
» Retail Sales and Service 89 Main - The Modern Merchant 89main.ca
647-804-0755
Almaguin Pet Supplies
705-825-1817
Hardy Niemi Law Professional Corporation 705-384-5770 canadianlawlist.com/listingdetail/contact/michael-a-hardy-533746/ Jodi Armit Photography / Photographer jodiarmitphotography.ca
226-218-2456
Kate Hood Photography katehood.ca
705-493-7350
Kawartha Credit Union - Burk’s Falls & South River kawarthacu.com Lake House Property Management Inc. lakehousepm.org
519-716-7236
Lakeland Networks lakelandnetworks.com
705-646-1864
Muskoka Vending theidealvendor.com
519-282-6983
RBC - Royal Bank rbc.com
705-384-5697
Stan Darling Insurance standarlinginsurance.com
705-382-2902
W.A Johnston Insurance wajohnstoninsurance.com
705-386-2645
» Sports, Recreation and Fitness & Wellness Alice in Wonderland
416-859-6953
Canoe Algonquin canoealgonquin.com
705-636-5956
Crystal Cave Museum, Gallery and Shoppe crystalcavecanada.com
647-223-4353
Eagle Lake Golf Course & Country Club eaglelakegolf.ca
705-386-0261
Capstone Ventures Inc. 705-788-1400 / 705-382-0359 facebook.com/pg/capstoneburksfalls/about/
Explore South River Text/Voicemail 705-482-5866 exploresouthriver.ca facebook.com/exploresouthriver
Crystal Cave Museum, Gallery and Shoppe crystalcavecanada.com
647 223 4353
Forks in the Trail forksinthetrail.com
705-487-5723
Garden Market by Sandhill Nursery gardenmarketburksfalls.com
705-382-2442
Horse Sense horsesensenorth.com
705-346-1714
Green Apple Cannabis greenapplecannabis.ca
705-382-5100
L’egance Day Spa
705-349-3338
Kidd’s Home Hardware kiddshomehardware.com
705-384-5365
Outdoor Adventures ATV outdooradventuresatv.ca
705-331-0304
Magnetawan Bait & Tackle magbait.com
705-387-3361
PL Fitness plfitness.ca
705-498-9778
Silver Screen Printing silverscreenprint.ca
705-845-5223
Stewart Coughlin Riding Ranch coughlinranch.com
705-386-7465
The Mel Gibson Ranch Co. Inc. themelgibsonranchcompanyinc.com
705-845-8904
The Ridge Golf Club theridgegolf.club
705-384-5844
Stevann’s The Shop 705-724-2564 facebook.com/StevannsVideoTheShopCrosstown The Mag magstore.ca
705-888-1236
Zak’s Sundridge zakssundridge.ca
705-384-0884
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Do you own a local business in the Almaguin Highlands? Explore the possibilites by taking advantage of the benefits of Chamber Membership. Join today and let your voice be heard.
Objective
of the Chamber of Commerce • Improve Marketing & Education • Membership Growth • Strengthen Community Relations • Ecomomic Growth • Advocacy • Tourism Development
How we help • Promoting & Advertising • Raising your business profile • Networking & Events • Business Referrals • Exclusive Membership Benefits
Benefits
through the Canadian Chamber of Commerce • Preferred rates on the electronic processing of credit cards • Fuel discount program • Program for payroll services partnership • Home, auto, travel and group insurance discounts • Chamber Travel programs • Office and computer supply group discount programs • Shipping discount programs
For more information about membership packages and pricing, please visit our website at
ahchamber.ca
56 Ontario Street, PO Box 544 Burk’s Falls, ON P0A 1C0 (705) 571-3624 membership@ahchamber.ca FOLLOW US onf
Explore the possiblities with Chamber Membership.
join today.
Happily nestled in Sundridge, one of the beautiful villages in the Almaguin Highlands
FASHION FASHION HEALTH HEALTH GIFTS GIFTS 705.384.0884 705.384.0884 zakssundridge.ca
zakssundridge.ca 10 John Street, Sundridge
10 John Street, Sundridge
/ Discovery / ... when universe Tuesthe - Sat 9:30 - 5:30 Opensomething 7 days a week (or Zak’s) helps you encounter in the summer! you didn’t know you were looking for.
Explore North Muskoka Almaguin Highlands With Us and
Emilio Foffano* 705.788.6553
Gizella Tschlegi* 705.571.0208
Emma Bonnar* 705.380.3136
Charlene Campbell* 705.783.3444
Burk’s Falls
184 Ontario Street 705.382.5555 * Sales Representative