Where Music, Tradition, and Flavour Ignite Community Spirit and Economic Magic!
Where World-Class Talent Meets Community Harmony.
Discover the best of Owen Sound this spring and summer!
Celebrating the Journey TogetherDiane’s Farewell Message
with “the hundreds of volunteers who work tirelessly before, during and after the weekend, our incredible sponsors and the generosity of the City of Owen Sound”.
August 22-31, Georgian Shores Marina
Wednesday August 20th can’t come soon enough for the members of the Sydenham Sportsmen Association (SSA) the hosts of the 37th McDonalds’s Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular. That morning about 50 volunteers will assist Big Top Rentals to raise the 100-foot by 300-foot ‘big tent’ at Georgian Shores Marina which will be home for the event beginning at 12:01 am on August 22nd. By noon on August 31st, it is expected that as many as 5,000 competitors will have come to the tent to weigh in literally tons of fish. In sum about 50,000 enthusiasts and participants will visit the site over the ten day period to enjoy a wide array of musical acts and other entertainment and to partake in ‘giant fish fries’ each Saturday evening.
Everything about the Salmon Spectacular is big. Beyond its huge attendance it is supported by about 600 volunteers and 275 sponsors. McDonald’s became lead sponsor in 2024. More than $200,000 in prizes will be awarded, including a grand prize boat, and trailer and motor packages for the top salmon, trout and rainbow. There are daily prizes for the top ten salmon and top five trout, along with daily entry prizes, surprise draw prizes and more.
Chris Geberdt is the Spectacular’s long-time Co-Chair, SSA vice-president and a relentless conservation advocate, following in his father Fred’s deep footprints. Chris estimates that each year visitors to the event spend between two to three million dollars on gas, food and accommodations, an immense annual economic boost.
One very popular returning attraction is the Fishing Friendzy Fishpond, stocked with rainbow trout from Hanover-based Springhills Trout Farm. Creator Michael Sklad says the ‘guaranteed catch’ pond introduces fishing to kids and parents who have not had the opportunity before.
The SSA was founded in 1947 as a conservation club, concerned with fish and wildlife. While its scope has broadened significantly over time, in this preservation capacity the Association’s three hatcheries source over 200,000 Chinook salmon, Rainbow trout, and Brown trout into the Sydenham and Pottawatomi Rivers and Georgian Bay each year, with a focus on supporting a sustainable local fishery as well as supplying the Salmon Spectacular.
5-6, Victoria Park
For 173 years, the Owen Sound Fall Fair has celebrated agriculture, rural heritage, and community spirit and its future is brighter than ever. That’s the assessment of Hiliary Breadner, Secretary/Treasurer of the Owen Sound Agricultural Society, the non-profit organization which oversees and manages this event. “As long as we have dedicated community leaders in agriculture who are willing to volunteer their time for something greater than themselves, and as long as we continue to build positive partnerships that support local businesses while recognizing their contributions, the Fair will continue to thrive”, she emphasized.
In 1852 the Fall Fair began as a way for local farmers and producers to exhibit their best livestock, crops, and handmade goods. Since then, agriculture has remained the annual event’s primary focus but beyond that core, the Society has constantly
continued on page 19
SweetWater Music Festival, a staple in the Owen Sound and Leith communities, returns this year from September 17th to 21st. This highly anticipated event promises a vibrant mix of performances, workshops, and community engagement. If you haven’t had the opportunity to attend one of the many concerts held over the 5-day festival. You should make sure to add it as a must see event for the year.
For over two decades, the SweetWater Music Festival has brought together world-class musicians and local talent, creating a unique musical experience. Natasha Bood General Manager for SweetWater Music Festival states “There is a performance every night and then, on Saturday and Sunday there are workshops finishing with a performance on the Sunday afternoon.”
The festival takes root at the Harmony Centre in Owen Sound, where rehearsals and several concerts take place. Additional performances will be held at Georgian Shores United Church, Leith Church, and the Meaford United Church, ensuring a wide reach across the region.
Each day of the festival features exceptional performances, showcasing a blend of classical and contemporary music. A highlight of the event is the weekend workshops, where both amateur and professional musicians have the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and perform together.
One of the festival’s standout features is its importance on community involvement. The SweetWater Music Festival goes beyond concerts by offering workshops designed to bring music lovers of all ages together. On the festival’s Saturday and Sunday, workshops such as the classical jam session allow amateur musicians to play alongside professionals, providing an invaluable opportunity for skill development and mentorship.
A choral jam session, first introduced last year, was a remarkable success and is expected to return. This initiative invites local choirs to collaborate on a single piece and perform together.
In addition to the main festival in September, SweetWater hosts a spring concert in May, designed to spotlight Canadian talent. This year’s spring performances will take place on May 22 in Thornbury at the L.E. Shore Library, plus on May 23 at Leith Church. As part of its educational mission, the festival will also present a free school concert on May 21 at the Harmony Centre, allowing students to experience live classical music and engage with professional musicians.
SweetWater’s commitment to education extends further through its partnerships with local schools and programs like the Kiwanis Festival, where young musicians are recognized for their talents. “We offer an award as part of the Kiwanis Festival.” Included with the award the student receives a lesson with our artistic director” Bood said. The Next Wave program nurtures emerging artists, Students looking to get into a music program or who are studying music at University are given the
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Summer is a time for relaxation, travel, and making memories with loved ones. But for caregivers of seniors, children with special needs, and individuals with developmental delays, the thought of taking a break can feel impossible. Worrying about the well-being of those who depend on you often means vacations and time off are placed on the back burner. Fortunately, Woodley Care Services is here to offer the perfect solution, providing the compassionate and reliable respite care you need to truly enjoy your summer.
Comprehensive Care Tailored to Your Needs Woodley Care Services specializes in providing high-quality care solutions for families and individuals in Grey and Bruce Counties. Whether you’re a full-time caregiver in need of a well-earned break or a vacationer requiring temporary support while visiting the area, Woodley Care Services ensures peace of mind by offering a range of essential services, including:
• Accompanied Visits: Sometimes, a simple outing can be a challenge for those with special needs or mobility limitations. Whether it’s a medical appointment, a social visit, or an event, Woodley Care Services provides professional caregivers to accompany and assist clients every step of the way.
• Companion Services: Loneliness and isolation can take a toll on seniors and individuals with developmental disabilities. The dedicated team at Woodley Care Services offers companionship and engaging activities to keep loved ones socially active and mentally stimulated, ensuring they feel supported and cared for.
• Transportation Assistance: Getting from place to place safely is crucial for maintaining independence. Woodley Care Services offers reliable transportation for seniors and individuals with special needs, helping them attend appointments, run errands, or participate in community events without stress.
A Trusted Partner for Local Residents and Vacationers Alike. For families living in Grey and Bruce Counties, Woodley Care Services provides consistent and dependable relief, allowing caregivers to step away knowing their loved ones are in capable hands. For those vacationing in the area, the service is equally invaluable. Many families hesitate to travel due to the challenge of managing the needs of their dependent loved ones in an unfamiliar setting. With Woodley Care Services, families can enjoy their holiday while ensuring their loved ones receive exceptional care, whether at a rental property, a cottage, or while exploring the beautiful local surroundings.
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With flexible scheduling, tailored services, and a deep understanding of the importance of respite care, Woodley Care Services allows families to confidently take a break, knowing their loved ones are in the best hands.
Enjoy Your Summer Without Worry Caregiving is a rewarding but demanding role, and every caregiver deserves time to recharge. This summer, let Woodley Care Services provide the support you need so you can relax, rejuvenate, and make the most of the season. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Grey and Bruce Counties, their team is ready to provide the reliable care that allows you to truly enjoy your vacation.
For more information or to book services, contact Woodley Care Services today and embrace a worry-free summer!
opportunity to participate in the SweetWater festival through this program. By providing mentorship or lessons from the professional artists that take part in the festival. The students are also given the opportunity to perform and volunteer. “It is really kind of special to nuture the next generation of musicians” Bood said.
While deeply connected to its local community, the SweetWater Music Festival attracts artists from across Canada, the United States, and Europe. This year’s festival continues that tradition, featuring musicians from Edmonton, Toronto, and Halifax, among other locations.
The festival also works closely with organizations such as Georgian Bay Symphony, expanding its reach and impact within the regional arts community. Host families play a crucial role in accommodating visiting musicians, further strengthening the bond between the festival and its supporters.
Beyond performances and workshops, the festival places a strong emphasis on accessibility and community participation. A Trillium Foundation grant has been instrumental in
expanding outreach programs, Like the newly introduced ‘Sweet Strings’ jam sessions, held bi-weekly, invite musicians of all skill levels to come together and make music, fostering an collaborative musical environment. Natasha states this initiative is a fun way to bring musicians together and out into the community, this September ‘Sweet Strings’ will be performing at local senior homes.
The success of the SweetWater Music Festival is made possible through the dedication of its board of directors, Managing Director Natasha Bood, artistic director Edwin Huizinga, and numerous volunteers.
With a strong legacy and an exciting future ahead, the SweetWater Music Festival continues to be a beacon of artistic excellence and community spirit. As preparations ramp up for this year’s event, music lovers from near and far can look forward to an unforgettable celebration of creativity and collaboration.
For more information, donations, or volunteer opportunities, visit SweetWaterMusicFestival.ca.
From the desk of
Mayor Ian Boddy
Our community is facing another period of economic disruption, coming too soon after the effects of COVID-19. We don’t yet know the impacts of the tariffs on our city, or how long this latest crisis may last. What we do know is that our community has a strong track record of resilience when facing challenges.
When I reflect on the history of Owen Sound, I see a community that stands together through thick and thin. We’ve seen the boom times in our shipping and manufacturing eras, we’ve weathered the storms of recessions and pandemics. We did it all together—as we now work with our partners to advance our ‘clean economy’ era.
Aside from the bigger economic forces at play, I want to highlight a few specific examples that illustrate the spirit of our community.
In the winter of 2015, we had neighborhoods with frozen water pipes for weeks. Citizens helped each other deal with drinking water, laundry, and shared meals, and we got through it.
In August of the same year, senseless arsons left 25 families homeless, and once again our community came together to help each other. Household goods and clothing were donated, and thousands of dollars were raised within days for the victims.
We have an amazing history of digging into our pockets to raise funds to build arenas and rec centers, park and playground amenities, a hospital, and also to buy major medical equipment, demonstrating what can be achieved when our community comes together.
On the national level, Owen Sounders have also played a historically significant role in shaping the Canadian identity—Agnes MacPhail and Norman Bethune went to high school here, and we are home to both Billy Bishop and Tom Thomson, legends in their respective domains.
Billy Bishop, Canada’s first flying ace, inspired awe and admiration as our country began to distinguish itself from its colonial origins. Canadians are sensibly reluctant to go to war, but never back down from a fight.
When we fight, we win. But we also need to remember what we’re fighting for.
Tom Thomson is renowned for capturing the natural beauty of our country with his breathtaking artwork. According to the National Gallery of Canada, “his art both reflected and reinforced developing Canadian nationalism”. We are fortunate to have many examples of this valuable work on display at the TOM, right here in Owen Sound.
In fact, we collaborated with our neighbours to make all of this history and culture available to residents of Owen Sound and beyond through the OPEN Card, providing free access to the Library, the TOM, the Billy Bishop Museum, and the Marine and Rail Waterfront Museum.
Come for a visit and be sure to support the incredible local businesses of our River District.
We work together, because we’re in this together. When any of us need help, we always look after each other. That is the way we have always done it.
Let’s do it again.
Elbows up!
—Mayor Ian Boddy
Submitted by Kim Follis
Sustainable investing enables you to invest your money in a socially conscious way according to your personal preferences and values. Interest in sustainable investing has grown in recent years due in part to heightened investor demand, increased corporate awareness and greater investment product availability. As a result, many companies are elevating their business practices and policies to be more in line with environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors to meet this demand and help ensure market resilience in an ever-changing economic environment.
Whether you want to encourage better corporate behaviour, make a positive impact on the environment and society, or align your personal views with your portfolio, there are options that can help you achieve your goals.
Sustainable investing incorporates environmental, social and governance or “ESG” considerations in the investment decision. Let’s look at some examples of ESG factors and what companies can do to better align themselves with these considerations:
Considerations include climate change, natural resource use and pollution. Companies can reduce carbon emissions, invest in renewable energy, decrease materials waste or conserve water resources to reduce environmental risks. They may also innovate environmental solutions that create business opportunities.
Considerations include workforce well-being, product liability and social inequalities. Companies can advance gender pay equality, prioritize diversity and inclusion, foster positive labour relations, provide safe working conditions for employees and build strong cybersecurity systems.
Considerations include corporate governance and corporate behaviour. Companies can institute stronger ethics policies, provide transparency in their financial reporting and set accounting policies that reflect the state of the business.
Many professionally managed investments, such as mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), incorporate ESG considerations into their process. They may do this by integrating it as one part of the overarching investment process, or they might have a primary and intentional focus on ESG.
Traditional funds may choose to integrate ESG considerations only to the extent it is financially material to the investment decision. These fund managers continue to prioritize financial return over ESG considerations. Importantly, these investments may not be marketed and viewed as sustainable investments.
The decision to incorporate your nonfinancial goals into your financial objectives is a personal choice. Make sure the goals and objectives of a sustainable investment align with your expectations. If you are interested in incorporating more sustainable investing strategies into your overall financial strategy, talk to your financial advisor to determine whether sustainable investing is right for you.
As I step into retirement and conclude my tenure as the CEO of the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible community, businesses, and partners who have supported me throughout this journey.
Your unwavering dedication and collaboration have been the driving force behind our shared successes. Together, we have built a stronger, more connected business community, and I am proud of all we have achieved.
As I prepare to retire from my role as CEO of the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce, I want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank the amazing team, Tiffany James and Savannah Dawson who have been at the heart of our success.
I want to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to the incredible Board I have had the privilege of working with at the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce.
Your vision, dedication, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping the Chamber’s success and making my tenure a truly rewarding experience. It has been both an honour and a privilege to work alongside such committed and passionate individuals.
Your brilliance, dedication, and passion have been the foundation of everything we’ve accomplished together. Each of you has brought unique talents and unwavering commitment to our mission, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved as a team.
Thank you for your invaluable guidance, encouragement, and trust throughout the years. I am confident that, under your leadership, the Chamber will continue to thrive and make a lasting impact on our community.
Thank you all for your trust, encouragement, and commitment. It has been an honor to serve this community, and I look
adapted the Fair to reflect ever changing circumstances. Now homecraft competitions, demolition derby, tractor and truck pulls, and family-friendly entertainment are among the popular regular features of the dynamic multi-day Fair.
Lots of exciting new things are happening as the 2025 Fall Fair approaches. After a devastating fire hampered the 2024 event, the Agricultural Society expects that the grandstands will be fully operational this year. From this refurbished base, they plan to reinstate ‘Thursday Night at the Fair’, upgrade the truck and tractor pulls and, hopefully, bring back a midway.
“This year too, we will be offering a Senior’s Afternoon at the Fair”, says Breadner,”and we are inaugurating a Junior Board to attract more youth to the Agricultural Society. We hope to attract individuals from ages 13 to 21 to develop their leadership skills, assist with events and, with experience, sustain the Society and the Fair for many years to come”.
“The Owen Sound Fall Fair is more than just an event”’ concludes Breadner, “it is a commitment to tradition, history, and community. It is about coming together, rolling up our sleeves, and volunteering to keep something truly special alive. It is a place where families and kids can learn where their food comes from, where young 4-H members proudly showcase their hard work, and where lifelong memories are made. Year after year, we create a place where agriculture, community, and fun come together”.
September 12-14, Bayshore Community Centre
Local BBQ lovers can rejoice. The Owen Sound Ribfest, presented by the Ontario Festival Group, will return to the Bayshore Community Centre this year. Five outstanding Canadian owned teams will be eager to serve mouth-watering BBQ
dishes including smoked ribs, pulled pork, smoked brisket, and chicken. All meat is Canadian sourced. In addition there will be festival foods like Bloomin’ Onion, roasted corn, poutines, and cold Canadian beer.
While for many Ribfest fans, it’s all about the BBQ, there will be much more to enjoy. Vibrant music will be served up live by local groups and amazing tribute bands echoing AC/DC, Tragically Hip, and Bob Marley.
Rick Brooks, CEO, Ontario Festival Group, says that the Owen Sound event is a favourite for the pitmasters among the eight that his company delivers annually across Ontario. “They love the spectacular geography, the small town atmosphere and especially the friendly people”.
Each pitmaster owns their own special smoker and guards their secret sauce recipe so as to excel in a variety of team competitions. Judges, usually local celebrities or first responders, use criteria including appearance, texture, tenderness, moisture, and taste in determining BBQ award winners. Judging is as much art as it is science, smiled Brooks, also called “Ricky Ribs”. Last year a new “Sprit Award” was introduced for annual competition at the Owen Sound Ribfest. Commemorating former Ribfest owner Nicole Amos, it goes to the most engaging and entertaining rib team.
Volunteers are essential to ensure that Owen Sound Ribfest is a smooth and enjoyable experience. “The event could not take place without the 30 local volunteers who help us each year”, said Brooks gratefully. “Financial support from our wonderful sponsors is also necessary in contributing to event’s success of the event and its charitable goals”.
For a third consecutive year the Ontario Festival Group will be donating a portion of Ribfest’s proceeds to the Grey Bruce Hospice. This follows contributions of $10,000 in 2024 and $9,500 in 2023.
In another socially responsible initiative, Owen Sound Ribfest 2025 will provide clean drinking water to attendees who bring reusable water bottles. “This is a great way to make sure everyone is comfortably hydrated while eliminating the need for single-use plastics”, said Brooks.
Moggie Fabrics is passionate about all things fabric. Dedicated to supporting home sewing, quilting, and crafts, they deeply appreciate the time and care that go into handmade creations. Their goal is to provide you with everything you need to bring your projects to life. Contact moggiefabrics@gmail.com moggiefabrics.com
Food 4 Less Plus is a closeout grocery specialist, offering unbeatable deals on surplus inventory, packaging changes, close-dated items, and factory seconds. They are committed to quality, great prices, and exceptional customer support. Contact info@food4lessplus.ca Phone: 519-270-5190
Climbers Crush is thrilled to bring Owen Sound its first commercial clim bing gym! Our 6,900 sq. ft. facility features 1,500+ sq. ft. of climbing, including a 20-ft roped wall and 15-ft bouldering. Plus, enjoy our brand-new yoga studio with diverse fitness classes and programs!
Contact climberscrush@gmail.com
Phone: 519-379-6383
The SCP Centre in Downtown Meaford has available warehouse space of 4400 SF2, 4240sf2 or 8700sf2. Clean, bright, affordable, shipping and drive in doors. New Roof, Heating & LED lighting. Professionally managed with onsite manager. $9.00/ sf2 ALL IN!! depending on leasehold improvements. Includes all utilities, snow removal, taxes etc.
Contact scpcentre.ca
Phone: 416-587-7571
Red Apple Electric is your trusted expert for top-quality electrical services in Meaford and beyond. Our licensed electricians specialize in installations, repairs, and upgrades, delivering safe, efficient, and reliable solutions with a commitment to excellence.
Contact
redappleelectric@gmail.com
Phone: 705-716-3738
Sunly is a leader in residential solar installation and maintenance, empowering Canadians with affordable, reliable, and renewable energy. We make solar more accessible with customized solutions, helping you save money and gain energy independence—now and for the future.
Contact
sunly.cagreybrucehguron
phone: 1-833-GO SUNLY (467-8659)
Dedicated to enhancing the physical and emotional well-being of pets by delivering top-notch grooming services, personalized care, and fostering a positive experience for both pets and their owners. Our team, consisting of two highly experienced groomers with over 50 years of combined grooming wisdom—works together with a shared passion for caring for your furry family members. We are committed to fostering a gentle and soothing atmosphere that helps even the most anxious pets feel comfortable and secure.
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Dachingdogpetspa@gmail.com
Grey Bruce Makers is a not-forprofit organization. A makerspace is a collaborative workspace equipped with tools, materials, and resources where people can come together to create, innovate, and learn. Grey Bruce Makers is a hub for creativity, learning, and innovation, providing a supportive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore their interests and turn ideas into tangible creations. We are a proud regional centre for creativity and community.
Contact info@greybrucemakers.ca www.greybrucemakers.ca
Dashound Passenger Transportation provides safe, reliable individual and group transport services with flexible, on-demand, point-to-point travel. Serving the Grey, Bruce, and Simcoe regions, we cater to your schedule and destination—whether it’s a local ride or a longer trip. Our commitment to comfort, punctuality, and personalized service makes us your go-to transportation solution across the region.
Contact
ridethedash@gmail.comridethedash.ca
I’m a Facebook guy; I say that unabashedly, even in the face of friends who point out with no subtlety that I spend way too much time there. Hey, I’m retired (mostly)! But in the local Grey-Bruce and Owen Sound pages, I keep coming across a recurring theme: someone asks, and then later another asks, and sometime after that, variations on a question:
“What is there to do around here?” or maybe, “Owen Sound is so boring; there’s nothing to do….:
Seasonally, periodically, I don’t believe for a second there’s anyone who doesn’t know the “big” events around here –Summerfolk, The Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular; Ribfest to name only three. They’re big, they’re heavily promoted and advertised, they are impactful elements of who we are. But let’s face it, Summerfolk and the Salmon Spectacular together only account for a couple of weeks in August. Ribfest is 3 days in late September. And yeah, there are other signature and significant annual events, from the Sweetwater Music Festival to Canada Day celebrations, to the Santa Claus Parade and Festival of Northern Lights opening. But those again are essentially singular events, so “What is there to do in Owen Sound?”
Let’s talk about the TD Harbour Nights music every Sunday evening; outdoor movies in Harrison Park, never mind the swimming pools. Multiple Roxy Theatre events, from OSLT productions to concerts and more coming in - you can fill in the pieces of a list like this in your own way. Stuff happens here!
But you’re almost certainly reading this as crocus and daffodil brighten the edges of your garden, and snowdrops proliferate in your lawn. What I really need to do is take you from spring back into the very depths of this past winter, to any day when those storms were raging and more snow was falling on top of the few feet you already had piled up. “What is there to do in Owen Sound?”
All you had to do was turn on your radio to 560 CFOS (I hate to be specific, but this has been the case for 85 years). What you heard in the heart of the storm was all the things that WEREN’T happening in Owen Sound; that is, all the events that DO happen in Owen Sound day-in, day-out, week-in, week-out – the cancellations.
The point is, yes we have our big spectacular events that draw us, our neighbours and visitors from around the world. But on any given Tuesday or Wednesday, or any given weekend, in all four seasons, those cancellations on the radio are for the treasure chest of events and experiences social and communal -- events that we populate and that truly set Owen Sound and area apart. It’s worth a look around to find the non-profits, the Legions & other service clubs, the church communities and more that are putting on events not just the last two weeks of August or on Canada Day weekend, but in essence, 365 days of the year.
“What is there to do in Owen Sound?”
What ISN’T there?
