2022 Dryden Trailblazer

2022 EDITION FREE

COMMUNITY & VISITORS GUIDE EVENTS > ACTIVITIES > SHOPPING & DINING > BUSINESS > CITY MAP

Welcome Boozhoo Bienvenue

dryden.ca

TRAILBLAZER TAGGED FISHING CONTEST:

WABIGOON CHAIN OF LAKES The Dryden Trailblazer Tourism Association (DTTA) have tagged $10,000 worth of fish within the Wabigoon Chain of Lakes in Dryden, Ontario.

The contest is intended to bring attention to the chain of lakes, promote tourism in our community, and is open to anyone who purchases a ticket.

Tickets are $20 (cash only) and are available at QSL Tackle, Clark’s Bait and Tackle, and Bonny Bay Camp.

Contest Rules 1. All contestants must purchase a ticket prior to catching a tagged fish. Tickets are non-transferable.

Tickets expire at the end of each calendar year. Eligible anglers must have their own tagged fish contest ticket. Children under the age of 16 do not require a contest ticket and are eligible for tagged fish prizes as long as they are fishing with an adult who possesses a valid ticket. Potential winners will be subject to an interview and witnesses may be consulted to ensure these conditions are met.

2. Anglers must comply with the Ontario Recreational Fishing Regulations. Please refer to the current year’s Fishing Regulations Summary.

3. Fish must be lawfully caught during the open season for each species on a rod and reel only.

4.To claim a tagged fish prize, the contestant catching a tagged fish must: a. Be registered for the contest before catching a tagged fish; b. Have a photo taken of the angler holding the tagged fish with the tag visible in the fish (photo must include date and time); c. Remove the tag, release the fish, and return the tag to one of the following locations: Dryden District Chamber of Commerce, QSL Tackle, Clark’s Bait and Tackle or Bonny Bay Camp. The DTTA will then be contacted for validation.

CONTENTS 4

Welcome Boozhoo Bienvenue

6

Upcoming Events

8

Things to Do

14

Outdoor Spaces

19

Fishing for $5,000

23

Three New Businesses “Homing” in on Success

BY JAY SIEMENS

BY LEANNE FOURNIER

Cover Photo Chris Marchand Publishing & Ad Sales Wake Marketing Inc. Kenora, ON Editor Mike Greaves Editorial Support Laura McQuarrie

28

Live Here Like You Mean It

30

Shopping & Eating

36

Living in Dryden

40

History of Dryden Police Service BY BETHANY WAITE

44

Dryden Working Circle

Design & Layout Shayla Smith Feature Writers Leanne Fournier, Jay Siemens Contributors Sarah McKenzie, Tyler Peacock, Chris Marchand, Bethany Waite Special thanks to City of Dryden and Dryden Trailblazer Tourism Association Dryden Trailblazer magazine is published by Wake Marketing Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited.

Printed in Canada.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 3

WELCOME BOOZHOO BIENVENUE

4 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Welcome to the first edition of Trailblazer Magazine, Dryden’s annual lifestyle publication. We’re excited that you’re here, learning about our piece of Northwestern Ontario. Dryden is situated on the northern shoreline of the famous Wabigoon Chain of Lakes in Treaty 3, the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Métis people. The Wabigoon Chain of Lakes provides residents and visitors with incredible multi-species fishing opportunities including walleye, crappie, muskie, bass, northern pike and so much more.

With this, the first edition of Trailblazer Magazine, you should know that the phrase—Trailblazer—means a lot to the people who call Dryden home. Dryden is a community of trailblazers; a place with a rich sense of community pride, perseverance, and dedication.

Being in Dryden affords you the opportunity of small town living, with a mix of larger city amenities that make it one of the most convenient places to live and visit. It is a place where the expansive wilderness and downtown shopping are synonymous. Our community is connected with the outdoors and the lakes, parks and trails within it; encompassed by nature.

Dryden is a regional centre for business, sport, and government. The TransCanada Highway connects communities to Dryden as a natural focal point in the District of Kenora. Dryden’s numerous restaurants, businesses, shopping experiences, entertainment venues, and recreation facilities (including soccer, golf, baseball, skiing/snowboarding, pool & fitness centre and more) provide a little something for everyone.

Photo: Jay Siemens

Whatever season you happen to catch us in, we welcome you. Whether you simply need to refuel and recharge on your cross-Canada trip, are staying to visit family and friends, or heading out on your big outdoor adventure, we’re happy you’re here.

Raise a family, grow a business, build a life. Take one step, take many. We invite you to blaze your trail in Dryden.

Tyler Peacock, Economic Development Manager, City of Dryden

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 5

M AY

UPCOMING EVENTS

11

Dryden Entertainment Series presents: Whitehorse drydenentertainmentseries.ca

13-14

Home & Leisure Show Dryden Memorial Arena Hosted by Dryden District Chamber of Commerce & Dryden District Conservation Club

29

Dryden Entertainment Series presents: Buck Twenty drydenentertainmentseries.ca

JUNE 8

Dryden Yacht Club ! groups/drydenyachtclub Sail your boat or join a crew every Wednesday until September 14

17-19

Dryden Walleye Masters drydenwalleyemasters.com

21

National Indigenous Peoples Day Cooper Park & Dryden Memorial Arena

28

Rainbow Alliance Pride ! RainbowAllianceDryden

J U LY

6 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

1

Canada Day Celebrations & Fireworks ! DiscoverDryden Government Dock

2-3

Great Northern Roadshow Science North event at the Dryden District Agricultural Society

7

Dryden Days of Summer Street Market Every Thursday, Downtown Dryden, until August 18 ! DrydenDaysofSummer

10

Dryden Road Runner Show & Shine ! DrydenCarShowTBD

TBD

Eric Lundmark Memorial Baseball Tournament ! DrydenMinorSoftball

19

Max the Moose 60th Birthday Tourist Information Centre ! DiscoverDryden

29-31

Migisi Sahgaigan (Eagle Lake) Pow Wow Eagle Lake First Nation

TBD

Dryden Triathlon / Try-a-tri info@drydentriathlon.com

AUGUST 20

Rhythm on the Range Anderson’s Homestead Golf Course ! Rhythm-on-the-RANGE-100986431274265

21

Dryden Bass Tournament drydenbasstournament.com

22-26

11th Annual Dryden Hockey School ! DrydenRecreation

25-27

Dryden Fall Fair Dryden Fair Grounds drydenfair.ca

O C TO B E R 1-31

Children’s Delight Series October through April ! Drydenchildrensdelight

SEPTEMBER 4

We Run This City Half-Marathon ! WRTCDryden

3-4

Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation Pow Wow Wabigoon Lake Obijway Nation

30-1

Holiday Handcrafters’ Market Dryden Memorial Arena ! groups/554765225089143

TBD

Dryden District Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards drydenchamber.ca

Dryden Fall Fest drydenfallfest.ca

DECEMBER 3

Santa Claus Parade district2kin.ca

2023 Little Bands Native Youth Hockey Tournament

February 29 – March 5 ! Lilbandshockey

Dryden Winter Festival

March TBD ! DrydenWinterFestival

Northern Bands Hockey Tournament

March 12–19 ! NorthernBandsHockeyTournament

Please Note: Event dates, times and details may change or be cancelled without notice. Please follow each event for up-to-date information.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 7

THINGS TO DO

SAILING Wabigoon Lake comes alive with sailboat racing Wednesday nights, July through October. Grab a seat at the end of Government Dock to watch the race. Join the action at the Yacht Club by 6:15 p.m. with your non-marking shoes. Here’s hoping for great conditions and fast boats.

WINDSURFING, KITE SKIING & BOARDING Dryden is a popular destination for windsurfing and kite boarding in the summer and kite skiing/ kite boarding in the winter. There is a growing community of active skiers and boarders in Dryden who can often be found taking advantage of the conditions on Wabigoon Lake and Thunder Lake.

Popular locations to access the lakes during the summer months are Flat Rock (Wabigoon Lake), Sandy Beach (Wabigoon Lake), and Johnson’s Beach (Thunder Lake). During the winter, you will find the kiting community accessing Wabigoon Lake right off of the ice road at Van Horne Landing.

PADDLING With plenty of lake access, Dryden is a fantastic location to dip your paddle. Whether you canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, Wabigoon Lake and Thunder Lake are easily accessible from multiple locations. Looking to hit the water with a group? Contact the Dryden Canoe, Kayak and Stand-Up Paddleboard Club on Facebook (DrydenKayakandCanoeClub), where you will learn more about the club and their next scheduled meet up. Need some gear? Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the Aaron Park gatehouse or by calling (807) 938-6534.

8 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

MOUNTAIN BIKING The area surrounding Ghost and Mavis Lakes is home to a series of wellmaintained mountain biking trails. The Dryden Ghost Riders Mountain Bike Club, a group of dedicated volunteers, maintain the trail system that offers something for every level of experience.

Looking for a place to fat bike this winter?

Look no further. The Dryden Ghost Riders Mountain Bike Club groom the trails once the snow falls allowing fat bikers to navigate their favourite trail all year long. Be sure to check out their group on Facebook— Dryden Ghost Riders Mountain Bike Club.

HUNTING Dryden is a centralized location to be your hunting base. No matter if you’re on the hunt for moose, bear, whitetail deer, bird, waterfowl or small game, there is a place for you here amongst the wilderness.

Book your trip with one of our many camp operators for guided or unguided hunting experiences. Dryden is also home to Marc McNay, host of “The Real Deal with Marc McNay” featured on Wild TV and Hunt Channel. Season 8 airs on Wild TV and Hunt Channel July 2022.

ARCHERY & SHOOTING

FISHING A multispecies mecca, Dryden is a fishing paradise for any angler. From bass to musky, walleye to crappie and northern pike to lake trout, our community is the centrepoint for your next fishing adventure. No matter what the season, opportunities to head out and fish are truly endless. A popular and easily accessible (year-round) location to fish from is Flat Rock park.

A number of fishing tournaments are held throughout the summer, notably The Dryden Walleye Masters, Wabigoon Lake Walleye Classic (Pro and Family Divisions), Wabigoon Lake Musky Open and the Dryden Bass Tournament.

Tournament Websites: Dryden Walleye Masters: drydenwalleyemasters.com Wabigoon Lake Walleye Classic: ! wabigoonwalleyeclassic Wabigoon Lake Musky Open: ! wabigoonmusky Dryden Bass Tournament: drydenbasstournament.com

Joining the Dryden District Conservation Club (DDCC) is a fantastic way to be introduced to the outdoors and the activities that make Dryden and Northwestern Ontario so unique. Whether you are a seasoned outdoors person or a beginner looking to develop your skills, the DDCC can provide something for you. The DDCC facility is located at 101 Henderson Road, a 10 minute drive north of Dryden following Highway 601. The facility is home to a complete gun range, archery course, club house and much more. For more information regarding accessing the club or to become a member, visit drydendistrictconservationclub.ca or find them on Facebook at drydendistrictconservationclubinc.

DRYDEN FALL FAIR Get ready to celebrate each fall with the Dryden Agricultural Society. 2022 will mark the 115th anniversary of the Dryden Fall Fair. This August, the Dryden Agricultural Society will play host to a wide variety of rides and games at the midway, horse and cattle shows, 4-H Market Steer Auction, displays, exhibits, petting zoo, food vendors, musical acts and performances and much more (COVID-19 conditions may apply). This event is surely one you don’t want to miss, providing fun, family entertainment suitable for all ages!

Visit drydenfair.ca for complete details or call (807) 223-6766.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 9

SUSPENSION BRIDGE Hold on tight as you walk, suspended, over the fast-moving water of the Wabigoon River. Located along the Dryden Signature Trail, the Roy Wilson Suspension Bridge is a unique feature of Dryden that offers unparalleled views of the Wabigoon River as it meanders through the heart of Dryden.

TAKE IN A TRADITIONAL POW WOW Each summer, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation and Eagle Lake First Nation host traditional Pow Wows on traditional lands on the shores of Wabigoon Lake and Eagle Lake. These events welcome visitors from across Canada and are open for all to attend.

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING Consisting of six runs, two lifts, one terrain park, and more than 20 km of cross-country ski trails, Dryden’s Ski Club is located north of town via Highway 601 on Ski Hill Road.

The snow is 100% natural and groomed to perfection daily.

No matter if you are a beginner or an expert, Dryden’s ski hill has something for everyone. Spectators are welcomed to enjoy the chalet, complete with full-service kitchen, while friends and family enjoy the slopes. Need some gear? Equipment rentals including skis, snowboards and snowshoes are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Book your next event with us! Venue rentals are available—visitskidryden.com, email drydenski@gmail.com or call (807) 937-4265 for more information.

CURLING ROTARY SKATE PARK Dryden’s skate park is located on Wice Road, adjacent to the soccer field complex and across from New Prospect School. It is a popular place in the summer for skaters and bikers of all ages.

Whether you’re a spectator, novice or experienced rider, the park is sure to be a lot of fun and excitement.

10 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Come on out to Dryden’s Arena #2 on Sunday nights (seasonally) and join in the fun. Our Sunday Night Curling League plays at three different times: 5:15–6:45 p.m., 7:00–8:30 p.m., and 8:45–10:15 p.m. For more information contact Trevor Szmon at (807) 216-6950.

Seniors Curling takes place on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. until noon. No registration required, just pay as you play. For more information contact Keith Apland at (807) 223-5704.

BIRDING

SNOWMOBILING & ATV’ING

While walking trails in and around Dryden, keep an eye out for birds. Throughout the spring the Laura Howe Marsh Trail loop offers quite a variety of marsh and forest birds including ruby-crowned kinglet, great blue heron and American bittern. Pronger Park trails offer habitat for a variety of forest birds including woodpeckers and warblers. During autumn, Sandy Beach to Flat Rock along the golf course is a good place to see fall migratory birds such as snow Buntings, Canada geese, snow geese and shorebirds. Over 150 common loons, bonaparte gulls, grebes and many ducks gather on Ghost Lake from September through October. Check out the Dryden Area Bird Watchers Facebook to find out where and what local birders are reporting. To take part in the Audubon Christmas Bird Count contact darlenesalter3@gmail.com.

Dryden definitely experiences all four seasons.

One of the most popular activities during the winter months is snowmobiling. Our community is lucky to have the Dryden Power Toboggan Club working on an expansive trails system covering the Dryden and Vermilion Bay areas. A group of dedicated volunteers maintain the picturesque trail system that navigates a variety of terrain including breathtaking lakes, boreal forest trails and rugged hills. This network of trails is part of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) and maps of the trails can be found at ofsc.evtrails.com. For more information about the Power Toboggan Club, visit their website at dptc.ca or find them on Facebook—drydensnowmobiling.

When there isn’t snow on the ground, the trails systems and vast network of logging roads make Dryden an excellent location for ATV enthusiasts.

For a virtual tour of the area, be sure to check out YouTubers CubbeeZX as they explore the trails and remote areas surrounding Dryden.

BOWLING Enjoy glow bowling with the family, regular 5-pin or league play on 14 immaculate lanes. Timber Lanes also features a full-service restaurant and great home cooked meals. Come out and join in the fun of bowling located in downtown Dryden on the corner of Princess and Whyte.

Call (807) 223-4343. Closed July & August.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 11

FALL FEST For Dryden Fall Fest 2022, our team of committee members and dedicated volunteers is looking forward to bringing back the same events that made our previous years so successful, and to expand the events to include even more fall-themed, fun, family aspects.

Dryden Fall Fest’s mission is to create free local events in the fall that celebrate Dryden and are as accessible as possible to all members of our community. We celebrate Dryden’s outdoor green spaces by encouraging the community to come out and experience the natural surroundings we’re so fortunate to have right in our backyards in northwestern Ontario.

Main Events: Harvest Hay Day: A day of fun for all with up to 25 local vendors set up for shopping. A Treats and Trees Walk allows children to test out their Halloween costumes in a daytime treat trail experience. The Live Here Like You Mean It crew run our Gourd Goals station. Families can partake in pumpkin carving and decorating on-site, and check out pumpkins submitted for the growing contest. CKDR radio station plays music and local food vendors provide refreshments.

Laura Howe Haunt: A night of fright for 13+. For one night only, volunteers dressed in costume haunt the Laura Howe Marsh for anyone willing to enter the wooded trail! The Hand Radio Club of Dryden helps us keep the event secure and safe with radio communications throughout the trail route. The local radio station plays music for those waiting in line, and videos their walkthrough for posting to social media later on. Enter if you dare!

Trunk-or-Treat: A safe and concentrated trick-or-treating experience for all. Held in a parking lot, we organize local businesses to host “trunks” where they create and decorate their trunks or stalls to hand out candy to the public.

In addition we sponsor Fall events and contests including drive-in movies, a yard decorating contest and tour, and photo contests. ! Dryden Fall Fest $ drydenfallfest

12 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

• Commercial and Residential Wiring • New Buildings and Renovations • Wiring Repairs and Upgrades

(807) 223-4434

Email: hooverelectric@hotmail.com Located at 158 Grand Trunk Avenue

Family Owned & Operated • Established in 1987

OUTDOOR SPACES

LAURA HOWE MARSH A unique urban marsh experience awaits!

Enjoy the amazing variety of flora and fauna featured in the Laura Howe Marsh. Wetlands are home to a wider variety of wildlife than any other Ontario habitat. The best habitats are found in marshes that have a mix of open water and emerging plants.

The beginning of the Laura Howe Marsh rehabilitation was funded by the Conservation Dinner program of the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters in partnership with a dedicated group of individuals who were passionate about the great outdoors and the beauty held within the marsh. As the work continues we hope that you find the time to visit this unique marshland and all its glory.

The marsh provides a spawning and nursery area for fish and amphibians, a winter refuge for deer and songbirds, and a rich food source for beavers and hunters such as snakes, fox, and birds of prey. Walk the short loop, which is 0.4 km in length and takes approximately twenty minutes, or the long loop, which is 2 km in length and takes approximately one hour. Sturdy shoes are advisable. Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather. During the fly and tick season from May to early August, insect repellent is also recommended.

14 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

TAKE A HIKE There are many trails for you to hike or bike your way through within the City of Dryden, and within the greater region.

Dryden Urban Trail System (Red) 12.3 km The Urban Trail System is a network of five attractive, intra-city routes that provide safe, enjoyable pedestrian access to commercial and residential neighbourhoods and community facilities and services - urban landscapes of interconnecting roads, sidewalks and pathways. The Urban Trail incorporates shopping opportunities as well. Dryden’s unique attributes and natural/cultural heritage can be explored along this route. Residents and visitors can walk, explore and enjoy the community. During your travels you can stop and visit the Dryden Museum, the Public Library or one of nine community parks.

17

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502

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17

Pronger Park

Laura Howe Marsh

Wabigoon River

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« To Hwy

Dryden Signature Trail (Blue) 5.4 km The Dryden Signature Trail System consists of two trail routes, uniquely designed to provide handson, engaging, intriguing, recreational/interpretative encounters to capture the imagination of community residents and visitors. The Signature Trail route follows along the Wabigoon River from Johnston Park located on the Trans Canada Highway 17 to the Laura Howe Marsh located off Van Home Avenue. Wetlands are nature’s richest domains. Neither land nor lake, wetlands weave together elements of earth and water to create unique habitats within the boreal forest.

Wetlands are always “on the edge”. The Laura Howe Marsh is 2.0 km and an excellent example of life “on the edge of the forest and on the edge of the lake.”

­

Wabigoon Lake

The Nature in the City Trail (Green) 6.8 km The Nature in the City Trail System is a beautiful “necklace” of trails that link together all the aesthetic, natural areas surrounding the city core. The rich assembly of natural settings and rich wetlands is the City’s most valuable outdoor recreational attribute and asset. The “necklace” provides excellent opportunities for short or extended walking/hiking/jogging or cycling and skiing. This trail is a rich assembly of natural areas surrounding the City.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 15

GHOST AND MAVIS LAKE TRAILS This network of Crown Land singletrack trails takes advantage of the hilly terrain and mature forest settings surrounding Ghost and Mavis Lakes, just a few minutes east of Dryden.

What began as bush trails, roughed in by local lakeshore residents has been improved and expanded over the years by eager local mountain bikers to now encompass over 20 kilometres of trail.

The Ghost and Mavis Lakes Trail Network is a popular four-season destination for non-motorized activities like hiking, mountain biking, winter fat-biking and snowshoeing.

From the parking area at Star Lake a variety of options and difficulty levels abound to suit everyone from a timid hiker to a seasoned mountain biker. Trails also vary in experience from mature jack pine forest, to challenging exposed bedrock or lakeside views.

From the parking area near Ghost Hollow 2, hikers can reach Ghost Falls, Clearwater Pond and more remote areas of the Ghost Lake shoreline.

When venturing out onto the trail system, be aware of the weather, daylight hours and the fitness level of your group. Trails are used at your own risk.

16 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Tips for trail users Newcomers to the trail system may find a higher level of comfort from smartphone navigational apps such as Trailforks—which reveal to the trail user their location within the trail network and their direction of travel.

Winter hikers should be wary of soft trail conditions after recent snowfalls. Preserve grooming efforts and avoid damaging the trail surface by wearing snowshoes and obeying signage that may restrict access in some areas to those on foot.

Trails can be busy at times and dog walkers should keep pets on a leash or under your control at all times.

Please respect area residents by using designated parking areas and avoid parking on Mavis Lake Access Road or private driveways.

HIT THE BEACH With plenty of lake access, Dryden has the perfect beach ready for you and your family to cool off and enjoy the great outdoors of Northwestern Ontario. For details and maps visit dryden.ca and search for open spaces.

SANDY BEACH

JOHNSON’S BEACH

Located on the North shore of Wabigoon Lake, abutting Eagle’s Landing Golf Course, Sandy Beach is only a five-minute drive from downtown Dryden. Sandy Beach Park features fantastic amenities including a large covered pavilion with BBQ pit and lots of seating for you and your family to relax on after an afternoon taking in the sand and sun. Additionally, Sandy Beach Park features an updated playground, walking trails and a great place to fish from shore called Flat Rock, be sure to bring your tackle.

Tucked away on the Northeast corner of Thunder Lake, Johnson’s Beach is a local favourite. Beautiful, naturally occurring, sand covers Johnson’s Beach and extends far into Thunder Lake. It is the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day. Bring your whole family and enjoy the sand and sun just minutes from Dryden via Thunder Lake Road.

AARON PARK Located on the South shores of beautiful Thunder Lake, Aaron Park is an Ontario Provincial Park operated by the City of Dryden. It is conveniently located within City limits along the Trans-Canada Highway. Offering full-service camping sites (long and short-term), amphitheatre, covered pavilion with BBQ pit and playground area, beach, trail system, lake access, and (of course) fishing, Aaron Park has a little something for everyone!

Photographers take note; with low light pollution, easy access and beautiful lakefront, Aaron Park is a premiere destination to photograph Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Be sure to mark this one on your photo map.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 17

AARON PARK Stay & Play at Aaron Park Aaron Provincial Park provides recreational opportunities; camping, fishing, boating, kayaking, and much more. Sitting on the shores of Thunder Lake, the park is approximately 116.7 ha in area and supports a rich ecological and cultural history. Ancestors of indigenous peoples used Thunder Lake as a historic food collection area and Thunder Creek as a canoe route. In the 1880’s the Canadian Pacific Railway was constructed next to the present park site and was instrumental in opening the area to settlement in the 1900s.

Whether you are just traveling through the area or staying for a few days, your visit means a lot to us! Aaron Provincial Park is operated by the City of Dryden, in partnership with Ontario Parks. Top quality customer service and dedication by all involved have resulted in a clean, peaceful, family oriented campground.

Reservations Can be made online at ontarioparks.com or by calling 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275).

Reservations are accepted up to 5 months in advance of your arrival date.

More information?

Summer: (807) 938-6534 Winter: (807) 223-1425

Daily Rates Regular

Senior (65+)

Disabled

Daily Vehicle

$10.84

$8.63

$5.31

Boat Launch

$10.84

$8.63

$5.31

Canoe Rentals

$25/4 hours or $40/day

Picnic Shelter

Rates available upon request

Features · 93 Camp Sites & Group Camp Sites · 51 Electrical Sites · Roped in Swimming Area · Canoe Rentals · Pavilion with BBQ Area · Frozen Treats at Gatehouse · Hiking Trails: Aspen 2 km, moderate/difficult or Eastern White Cedar Trail 1.2 km, easy loop

18 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Fishing for $ 5,000

Jay Siemens is an ex-fishing guide turned video producer/YouTuber calling NWO home. He documents his fishing adventures for the world to see. You can follow along at jaysiemens.com.

B Y J AY S I E M E N S

We all fish for different reasons, for many it’s sustenance, for others it’s to catch and release a trophy sized fish and for some it’s even to compete against other anglers in fishing tournaments. These are just a few of the reasons that draw anglers out onto the water. Whatever your reason is to be on the water this year, your next cast could make you $5,000 richer.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 19

At an early age I discovered my obsession with fishing.

What started as a weekend activity, eventually turned into a summer job guiding at lodges across Northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan. From there I discovered my passion for videography. I found myself with a camera in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. Now I’m blessed to make a living documenting my fishing adventures on YouTube. This line of work has brought me to some pretty incredible places, introduced me to some beautiful people and continually surprises me with new and exciting opportunities. This was one of them.

Last summer I was asked by the Dryden Trailblazer Tourism association if I was interested in being a part of a pretty exciting project—a tagged fish contest. Every contest is a little different so let me explain the basics of how this one works. Fish are tagged with a small plastic tag (called floy tags) and released back into the lake.

If an angler is lucky enough to catch one of these tagged fish AND if they happen to be registered in the competition, THEY WIN! This is where my role came in. I was put in charge of tagging six fish and documenting the process. As an adventurous angler my goal is to fish every lake in North America. Unfortunately, I know this to be an unrealistic goal. Heck, even northwestern Ontario will keep me occupied for a lifetime. While I only live a 90 minute drive from Dryden, this was my first time planning an open 20 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

water fishing trip on “The Goon”. The Wabigoon Chain of Lakes is a very unique fishery consisting of 12 different lakes, Wabigoon and Dinorwic being the two big ones, with a myriad of crystal clear to dark tannic back lakes all connecting to make this a fishermen’s paradise. I could (and did) spend hours pouring over maps looking at this incredibly fishy looking area.

I planned the tagging mission around a few beautiful fall days last September with my wife Samantha. She always seems to out-fish me, so to make sure our task was accomplished I knew I needed her fish magnetism in the boat.

After a quick stop at QSL Tackle and Clarke’s Bait and Tackle for some live minnows and last minute tackle we were off to Van Horne Landing (the government dock) on

Wabigoon Lake to launch our Alumacraft. Any new body of water can be intimidating but with some pre-trip research and some help from a few locals, we were ready to conquer the chain of lakes. I’d like to tell you we hammered the fish the first day, but that would be a lie. As is often the case on a new body of water for the first time, we did a lot of exploring and not much catching. Before we skip to day two I need to share with you where I found the best East Indian food I’ve ever experienced, in Dryden of all places. It’s called Masala and I’d highly recommend checking it out if you’re looking for a pick-me-up after a slow day on the water. Okay, now back to fishing...

Our second day began with launching our boat from Bonny Bay Resort located just east of downtown Dryden.

While I would have liked to stay and fish there for the week, we only had two days (now one) to get these fish tagged. We had six tags to affix to our $10,000 worth of fish. Five would be worth $1,000 each and one special tag being worth $5,000 to the lucky angler who catch them.

The chain of lakes is home to a wide variety of species: northern pike, musky, walleye, smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch and rock bass. For this reason my goal was try to spread the tags across multiple species. I decided to focus on what I thought were the three most popular species for tagging—walleye, bass, and crappies.

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DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 21

The morning started off with us fishing a variety of main lake reefs in 15-25 ft of water which at this time of year gave us a bass/ walleye combo. The fish were snapping this day and in short order we had our first three fish tagged... one bass and two walleye (each worth $1,000). After a quick location switch I marked a more substantial fish and after an anxious few seconds I was able to finesse this bigger fish into biting.

After a tense battle, a big and beautiful 26 inch walleye hit the net. This was a special fish and was the one that I thought deserved the $5,000 tag we had allotted. After a quick and painless tagging process, we released this beautiful specimen back to the depths with the floy tag attached.

With our two remaining tags, we decided they would be set aside for crappies. After a quick conversation with Len from Bonny Bay Camp he pointed us in the direction to where we could catch a few hungry crappies and finish tagging our two final fish. We ended the evening in quick order, catching 10+ and releasing two tagged, beautiful Dryden slabs. Before my email inbox gets flooded with messages, I must tell you that I was sworn to level 11 secrecy as to where these fish were caught!

So now that these tagged fish are swimming around, what is next? This is where YOU come in. I know competitive fishing tournaments aren’t for everyone, but with a simple $20 ticket you could have a chance at catching a $1,000 or even a $5,000 fish on your next outing! To review all the contest rules, check out page 2.

You must be registered in the tournament BEFORE you catch a tagged fish. With how much we spend on boats, gas and tackle, what’s an extra $20 to have a chance at catching thousands of dollars swimming around? The last I heard, all 6 tagged fish were still unclaimed. That’s $10,000 to be caught, with more fish being added in the years to come. I think this is a great initiative

by Dryden Trailblazer Tourism Association and something that certainly adds a little extra excitement to your next fishing trip on Wabigoon and the rest of the chain.

Please note fish must be caught during open season and all local fishing regulations must be followed. 

We are proud to call Dryden our home.

How we do things in our community is just as important as what we do.

We work hard to ensure that we are managing our business responsibly and sustainably. We embrace these as core guiding principles which serve as the foundation for our business.

We are committed to our environmental, social and economic responsibilities. This is demonstrated by over 100 years of production in this community while sustainably managing our forests.

@DomtarEveryday

Contact: 807-223-9184 www.domtar.com

22 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Dryden Pulp Mill

Three new business owners “homing” in on success

BY LEANNE FOURNIER

Jena McCafferty, Benjamin Feagin Jr. and Danielle Scherban are all happy to be back in Dryden and open for business.

Their companies exemplify their collective passion for entrepreneurship and making a difference here at home.

While all three have different reasons for returning to the region, one thing is the same.

They missed the connection to both community and the natural wonders that Dryden has in abundance.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 23

Benjamin Feagin Jr., AgriTech North Jena McCafferty, Awakened Roots “I was craving a simpler life,” said McCafferty, who left Dryden over a decade ago to study massage therapy in Winnipeg and then traditional Hatha Yoga and meditation in Canada and India. She is just completing her Practitioner Herbalist Diploma. Before returning, she ran her own yoga studio in Calgary.

When her plans to establish a yoga studio in Sioux Lookout didn’t work out, she shifted her attention to Dryden where she grew up. It was the right move.

“As soon as I came back home and put roots down, things rippled out,” she said.

She quickly saw there was a gap in the community for more natural approaches to health and wellness.

She opened Awakened Roots, located at 60 Princess Street, in March 2020—just two weeks before the first COVID-19 shutdown. Despite that, she carried on, expanding her online sales of an array of healing teas, elixirs, probiotic water kefir sodas and other natural health products.

While the timing for a start-up was tough, McCafferty said it was also right. “I think interest in natural health is peeking, so I’m really excited to help people find their way to more traditional practices of health and connection.”

24 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

With family support needs growing during the pandemic, it was time for Benjamin Feagin Jr. to come home. He had been away for about 20 years, getting a Master of Science degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the United States, and working for a number of top U.S. laboratories and businesses.

With his fiancé Fabian being a master grower, the two were presented an opportunity to address food security issues in the region by Tyler Peacock at the City of Dryden. They developed AgriTech North to meet the challenge. The vertical farming hydroponics plant, located on Duke Street in Dryden, is focused on providing high quality, nutritious leafy greens and culinary herbs yearround to communities within the region.

As of April AgriTech has been pre-selling its vegetable boxes, which when ready will be picked up at local businesses. “Our goal is to have local storefronts for our pickup locations to help drive traffic to these businesses,” he said. AgriTech North’s plant isn’t open to the public in order to maintain a sanitary environment for the food being grown.

Feagin says we can all expect to see high increases in fresh produce this summer with ongoing droughts and supply chain issues. “Our goal is to fill that gap and control prices with local production, while also expanding selection.”

COVID ERA CHALLENGES All three entrepreneurs talk about supply issues and the ensuing rising costs that required them to adapt and, in some cases, rethink their business approach.

While Awakened Roots was considered essential and McCafferty could stay open, she had other challenges, including having to relocate to ensure a better environment for brewing her elixirs and kefir soda water. She took advantage of government funding through the Digital Main Street program to get her online store up and running.

Danielle Scherban, Northwest Goods Seeing a gap in the community is also what inspired Danielle Scherban to pursue an idea that had been percolating for a long time. Years away at school and travelling and working in hospitality had opened her eyes to how much her hometown of Dryden and northwestern Ontario has to offer. Her idea was to create a brand that exemplified the fun and wonders of the region.

She started selling her silk-screened Northwest Goods t-shirts online and at markets in 2018, shortly after moving to Fort Frances. She returned to Dryden in 2019 and opened her store on Van Horne Avenue in October 2020. In her opinion, the timing couldn’t have been better.

“Since I grew up here, I always saw the need for this kind of store so when everything aligned, I knew it was time,” she said. Her product line has expanded to include other local goods and as much possible, Canadian-made clothing, housewares, jewelry, bath and beauty products.

“We were still being discouraged from going to Winnipeg so even though our store was considered non-essential and closed, people could stay home and shop online.”

Since Northwest Goods has been open to the public, Scherban feels they have benefited from the increased focus on buying local.

“There’s a greater awareness that if you don’t support local, those stores won’t survive.”

Feagin was faced with the lack of funding for businesses that didn’t have revenues before COVID. “That’s been hard to weather along with massive construction supply delays, and the cost of materials going up every day.” He adds that the harsh winter has also delayed construction and production.

For Scherban, having to close the store to the public shortly after it opened and subsequent closures were disappointing as was having to rely entirely on online sales. “It was quite discouraging to have to constantly think of ways to get customers to make a purchase when they couldn’t come to the store.” On the plus side, she says the closures gave her time to be creative and focus on other aspects of business.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE McCafferty, who just placed first in the inaugural Northwestern Ontario Pitch IT competition, is focused on increasing probiotic water kefir soda production and distribution around northwestern Ontario. She’s also eager to start hosting wellness workshops and retreats to build that important community connection piece. “There’s a real surge happening, and people are seeing the benefits of a more simple, natural way of life,” she said. “I hope I can bring NW Ontario together in some of these pursuits.”

Feagin also has big plans once he is on surer footing. This includes doubling the size of the hydroponics plant in the next year and acquiring funding for a 100,000 square foot greenhouse.

“The ‘soft opening’ with the vegetable box pre-sales is facilitating the process of establishing new distribution in other communities like Sioux Lookout,” he said.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 25

AgriTech North is also in discussion with 3 Points in Space Media, who have the infrastructure to support transportation of fresh produce to northern Indigenous communities.

Like McCafferty, Scherban plans to host more communitybased events in the store. “We are always looking for things to do in Dryden,” she said. “I’d like to involve the community and local makers as much as possible.”

And she wants to keep giving back through her 807 Shirt and Buy Back programs. “For the 807 Shirts, we partner with local groups looking to raise money for their projects and give them $8.07 from each purchase,” she said.

For the Buy Back program, Scherban takes back Northwest Goods wear for resale and a store credit.

The idea arose from her fashion management education, where she saw the waste the fashion industry creates.

“I thought, what can I do to reduce that for my brand?”

THANKS TO THE COMMUNITY “While I was already connected to people from the region interested in a more natural means to health and healing, I’ve been blown away by the interest and support of the community,” said McCafferty. “There’s no way I would be where I’m at if I was in a larger city.”

Feagin agrees. “The community is very local focused, which helps keep our small businesses alive and I’m very grateful for that,” he said. “It’s not like a big urban centre where there’s so much anonymity.”

Scherban says she’s most excited about building the ‘maker community’. “People can create something and go home and put it to use,” she said.

“I’m really happy I’ve been able to create that space.”

Bravo to these three inspiring businesses that are all creating “space”—for growth, sustainability and community connection. You can read more about each at awakenedroots.ca, agritech-north.ca and northwestgoods.ca. 

Bundle and save

5 unbelievable services, through one provider. More choice for less.

Visit us online to learn more at tbaytel.net/marathon INTERNET

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TV

26 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

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PHONE

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SECURITY

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MOBILITY

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do this job because it’s for anyone.

Personally, I think that the apprenticeship was totally the way to go.

Don’t be scared. I know it can be really intimidating. I was very intimidated when I started out, but we all start somewhere.

During high school I took all the tech classes that I could.

There are so many jobs… the pathways are endless.

You can end up being your own boss.

TRADES TECH

Find out how a trades & tech education at KPDSB can give you a headstart in your skilled trades career.

kpdsbpathways.ca/tradesatkp

VISIT OYAP.COM TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SKILLED TRADES APPRENTICESHIPS

Live here like you mean it Lara MacDonald and Sarah McKenzie are home-grown Drydenites who set out into the world and returned to settle down roots back home. They created the “Live Here Like You Mean It” movement to help capture the beauty of daily lives in Northern Ontario and Dryden specifically.

Live Here Like You Mean It (LHLYMI) aims to build community morale and create moments and products that help instill community pride. The project so far has created a photo campaign, annual local gift guides, a Spring cleanup initiative, Fall Fest’s pumpkin contests and a partnership with Northwest Goods to develop Dryden’s own lake-name shirts. Though projects on the horizon were temporarily stalled by COVID-19 watch for the return of LHLYMI in 2022 and follow us on social media: M Live Here Like You Mean It P liveherelikeyoumeanit liveheredryden

So, you’re looking to visit or settle in Dryden? That’s great!

Welcome! We did the same thing about ten years ago and it’s been a blast. We hope that you’re ready for small-town rural life. Living in Dryden is one of those things where you get what you put into it. Unlike a bigger city where there is a lot built-in to enjoy, we create our own experience here.

In our professional lives in Dryden, we hear the same messaging repeated: 1) there are no young people in Dryden, they all leave. 2) There is nothing to do in Dryden. 3) There is no opportunity in Dryden. Don’t be daunted by this messaging though! Our experience so far has not reflected this attitude and we wish that we would stop hearing this—it hardly builds a reputation or foundation for young professionals to feel hopeful for a meaningful, fulfilling life in Dryden. Early adult life is already so complicated, messaging like this made the idea of buying a home, finding a job and starting a family here even more daunting because of the limitations it set from the start. Now looking back, we wish we’d worried less—we’ve found wonderful friends in both old and new places through all of the community groups that are present here. We’ve enjoyed finding and growing in our careers. And we love having Dryden as a base for adventures near and far.

Dryden has a lot going for it that needs to be highlighted— the pandemic absolutely made this clear and we heard it repeatedly over the past two years—“can you imagine not having this space and outdoors to enjoy?”

Our recreation infrastructure is great for a city this size and we have community leaders and groups that are continually bringing their vision for new and improved spaces to life­—the soccer fields, the Dryden Recreation Centre upgrades and the new Youth Centre are prime examples of this. Further, there are so many enthusiastic

28 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

and energetic people coming up and creating new places, spaces and events for everyone—marathons, festivals, markets, concerts and dances just to name a few. Though the pandemic slowed some of this progress (Live Here Like You Mean It was no exception) with the province reopening there’s a reinvigoration of community coming and we’re happy to be in the thick of it.

When the global environment changed, Dryden was not immune to those changes. For years it felt like the community was in the media for all the wrong reasons. It’s hard to watch a portrayal of your home in a negative light that you know isn’t the full story or experience of the community. The nagging feeling that Dryden needed a targeted approach to bring unity and ignite an attitude change is where our project called “Live Here Like You Mean It” was born. We hoped to highlight the great things about Dryden, its residents and its activities. We acknowledge our past and our differences, we ignite the change that needs to be seen and we help move forward.

We write this to you as ambassadors of Dryden. That’s not to say that we don’t recognize our place of privilege or the challenges we as a community need to see, face and address. It is to say though that we can love and take care of this community, thinking and speaking about its strengths and being proud of the place we call home every day. There’s still work to do! Please consider engaging with us on Facebook or Instagram or sharing your ideas with us—we’re always looking for new ways to make Dryden more exciting, inclusive and fun! 

TRAILBLAZER TOURISM ASSOCIATION Formed in 2021, the Dryden Trailblazer Tourism Association (DTTA) is a volunteer association tasked with the management and utilization of 50 per cent of the funds generated by Dryden’s Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT). The DTTA’s goal is to advance the City of Dryden as a tourist destination by supporting and promoting local events, initiatives and infrastructure that attract people to Dryden.

In the fall of 2021, the DTTA launched the Trailblazer Application, an experiential tourism application that promotes the tourism assets and infrastructure, as well as local businesses and points of interest present in Dryden. Users are rewarded in the app with “points” for visiting those locations. Points can then be redeemed at participating businesses for exclusive offers.

Shortly after the Trailblazer Application was launched, the DTTA introduced the Trailblazer Tagged Fishing Contest with $10,000 worth of tagged fish being caught and

released into the Wabigoon Chain of Lakes. For contest details, revisit page 2.

In 2022, the DTTA is looking to support a number of projects and organizations including the Dryden District Conservation Club, Dryden Fall Festival, Canada Day festivities, investments to beautify Van Horne Landing, Claude Stansfield Match Play, Mavis & Ghost Lake Trails highway signage and much more.

Applications for funding are open year-round and the committee is always looking to support new and creative ways of promoting Dryden. The DTTA application form can be found at dryden.ca/dtta.

Lastly, the DTTA is a proud supporter of this important community magazine in partnership with the City of Dryden and we’re happy you’ve chosen to pick it up!

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 29

SHOPPING & EATING B&B Roadhouse

349 Government St

|

(807) 223-2000

Egli’s Sheep Farm

20 km west of Dryden on Hwy 17

| (807) 755-5231

bnbroadhouse.com M tappsnapps

eglifarm.com M egli.farm

B&B Roadhouse offers cuisine based on classic steakhouse dishes with a focus on bold flavours. Diners are able to choose from a variety of menu items and we are open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night snacks.

One of Canada’s largest wool and sheepskin shops.

Locally made sheepskin products such as slippers, hats, mitts and car accessories. Also available are wool blankets, sheepskin rugs, sweaters, leather and sheepskin jackets, mukluks, leather boots and much more. The Animal Park is open in the summer from mid-April through to end of September.

The lounge area features five big screens televisions covering a variety of sporting events. B&B Roadhouse also boasts the largest selection of draft beer in our area and is working with Northern Ontario brewers to bring a variety of flavours and styles to our guests.

Naked North Art Gallery & Gifts

284 Government Street

| (807) 223-2895

M Naked North Art Gallery & Gifts OPEN YEAR ROUND Jan to April – Tues to Sat 12:00 to 5:00 May to Dec – Mon to Sat 10:00 to 5:00 The perfect place to find the perfect gift.

This one-of-a-kind gallery is filled with unique creations by talented local artists. Expose yourself to different styles of photography, drawings and paintings in oils, acrylics, and watercolours. Appreciate the variety of jewellery and crafts of weaving, sewing, knitting and quilting.

Enjoy all sizes of window hangings and wall pieces of stained glass, fused glass and mosaics. Find Dryden and Canadian souvenirs such as coasters, glasses, trivets, magnets, post cards and t-shirts.

The Pet Store 23 Duke Street

|

(807) 223-2399

M ThePetStoreDryden

Beside Max the Moose Highway 17, Dryden Phone: 223-2895

30 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

We carry all natural, grain free and limited ingredient food and treats. Brands such as Acana, Orijen, Nutram, Oven Baked, Boreal, Royal Canin, Diamond, Merrick, Natural Balance. Live crickets, superworms, frozen mice and rats. Small selection of tropical fish and goldfish.

Come check us out!

The Pet Store QSL Tackle

102 Queen Street

Carrying all-natural, grain-free and limited ingredient food & treats |

(807) 223-5050

STORE HOURS MON-FRI: 10am to 6pm SAT: 9:30am to 5pm

qsltackle.ca M qsltackle QSL Tackle is a one stop shop for all your tackle needs. We have live and artificial bait year round, as well as a large section of tackle. QSL Tackle is a fullservice tackle shop, and a FULL service laundromat.

QSL Tackle is an exclusive authorized dealer for: Otter Outdoors, St. Croix Rods, Shimano and much more.

Stop in and check out our selection or visit us online.

807.223.2399

23 Duke Street, Dryden, ON thepetstoredryden@gmail.com ! thepetstoredryden

Great Tap...Great Grill (807) 223-2000 bnbroadhouse.com

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 31

The Riverview Lodge 148 Earl Avenue

|

(807) 223-4320

theriverviewlodge.com M The Riverview Lodge Dryden’s boutique hotel & restaurant—enjoy casual dining in the lounge and deck overlooking the river, offering a wide variety of special sandwiches, burgers and wings. The dining room offers a large selection of appetizers and an extensive entrée menu featuring prime rib and great wine list.

Schmidt Greenhouses

16669 Hwy 17 West

|

(807) 937-5239

M SchmidtGreenhouses A third generation family owned and operated business, operating since 1948 with a service area ranging from Kenora to Thunder Bay and north to Sioux Lookout and Red Lake. With over 25,000 sq ft of growing and retail space, Schmidt Greenhouses produces the widest variety of annuals and perennials in the area and is a destination point for any serious gardener.

Annuals • Perennials • Vegetables • Shrubs Trees • Soils • Fertilizers • Pots • Decor Seeds • Custom Orders

937-5239 16669 HWY 17 WEST

OPEN SEASON APRIL TO JULY

schmidtgreenhouses.com 32 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Ì EATING—RESTAURANT B&B Roadhouse 349 Government St

(807) 223-2000 bnbroadhouse.com ! tappsnapps

Ho Ho Chinese 64 Van Horne Ave

(807) 223-2888

Hong Kong House 34 Whyte Ave

(807) 223-7411 ! Hong Kong House

Husky House Restaurant 379 Government St Kano Reid 32 King St

(807) 223-5664 myhusky.ca/products-and-services/husky-house-restaurants

(807) 223-2859 ! Kano Reid

Masala - East Indian & Greek 205 Duke St, Dryden

(807) 223-8622 ! masaladryden

Mulligan’s Bar & Grill 400 Sandy Beach Rd (807) 223-8885 eagleslandinggolfcourse.net/dining ! Mulligan’s Patricia Inn Family Restaurant 537 Government St

(807) 223-2210 ! Patricia Inn Family Restaurant

Riverview Lodge 148 Earl Ave

(807) 223-5208 theriverviewlodge.com ! The Riverview Lodge $ theriverviewlodge

Pizza Hut 397 Government Rd

(807) 223-6621 pizzahut.ca ! PizzaHut397GovernmentRd $ pizzahutcanada

Twin Towers Restaurant 13790 Hwy 17

(807) 938-6569 ! Twin Towers Restaurant

Ì EATING—QUICK SERVICE A&W 580 Government St

(807) 223-6980 aw.ca ! AWDryden580GovernmentStreet $ awcanada

Dairy Queen 175 Government St KFC 400 Government St

(807) 223-8006 dairyqueen.com ! DQ27074 $ dqcanada

(807) 223-5224 kfc.ca ! KFC (400 Government Street, Dryden, ON, Canada) $ kfc_canada

McDonald’s 520 Government St (807) 223-4884 mcdonalds.com ! McDonalds520GovernmentStreetDrydenON $ mcdonaldscanada Subway 460 Government St

(807) 223-3787 subway.com ! subway $ subwaycanada

Tim Horton’s 655 Government St

(807) 223-6626 timhortons.ca

! Tim Hortons $ timhortons

Ì EATING—TAKE HOME Chip Box 51 King St

(807) 223-3115 ! Chip Box

Domino’s Pizza 539 Government St

(807) 223-5554 pizza.dominos.ca ! DominosPizzaDryden $ dominoscanada

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 33

Ì SHOPPING—APPAREL & LIFESTYLE Casey’s Clothes Closet 18 Earl Ave Casually Hip

38 King St

(807) 223-4211 ! Caseysclothescloset

(807) 223-4474 casuallyhip.ca ! Casually Hip $ casuallyhip

Ella Lynn 23 Whyte Ave (807) 223-6955 ! ellalynns $ ellalynns Hand Me Updscale Family Closet 539 Government St – Unit 7 (807) 215-0055 handmeupscalefamilycloset.com ! Hand Me Upscale Family Closet $ handmeupscalefamilycloset Little Mod Nest 14 King St

(807) 223-6378 ! $ littlemodnest

Mark’s 409 Government St

(807) 223-7968 marks.com ! dryden.409.government.street $ markscanada

McTaggerts & Taggs Source for Sports 29 White Ave Michelle’s Top Drawer 23 King St

807 223-5305 mctaggarts.ca ! mctaggartsstores $ mctaggarts_dryden

(807) 223-7399 ! Michelle’s Top Drawer $ michellestopdrawer

Northwest Goods 64 Van Horne Ave northwestgoods.ca ! $ nw.goods

Ì SHOPPING—GENERAL RETAIL Canadian Tire 409 Government St (807) 223-4026 canadiantire.ca ! CTDryden $ canadiantire Rona 329 Government St

(807) 223-6699 rona.ca ! RONA Dryden $ rona.ca

Wal Mart Supercentre 620 Government St

(807) 223-7190 walmart.ca

! Walmart Canada (Dryden) $ walmartcanada

Ì SHOPPING—HOME & FURNITURE Dufrense Furniture & Appliances 60 Van Horne Ave

(807) 223-8009 dufresne.ca ! DufresneDryden $ dufresnestyle

Gould’s BrandSource Home Furnishings 19 Whyte Ave Home Hardware 509 Government St $ btaylorhomehardware

(807) 223-2275 gouldsbrandsource.ca ! goulds.brandsource

(807) 223-3381 homehardware.ca ! btaylorhomehardwarebuildingcentre

Second Chance Treasures 32 Princess St

(807) 223-7666 ! Second Chance Treasures

Ì SHOPPING—RECREATIONAL PRODUCTS Dryden Powersports 564 Government St

(807) 223-3517 drydenpowersports.com

! DrydenPowersports

$ drydenpowersports

Ì SHOPPING—SPECIALITY Awakened Roots 60 Princess St awakenedroots.ca ! awakenedroots $ awakened.roots Marnics Mobile 325 Government St marnicsmobile.ca ! marnicsmobiledryden Clark’s Bait & Tackle Unit 1 – 66 Keith Ave clarksbaitntackledryden Dryden Coin & Jewellery Shop 41 King St

(807) 223-5210 clarksbaitandtackle.com ! clarksbaittackledryden $ (807) 223-4332 dcaj.ca ! $ drydencoinandjewellery

Egli’s Sheep Farm 20232 Hwy 17 W.Minnitaki Ontario

1 800-465-2966 eglifarm.com ! $ eglifarm

Flower Forest 48 Princess St (807) 221-2121 theflowerforest.ca ! The Flower Forest Floral and Gift Shop $ theflowerforest_dryden Kano Reid 32 King St

(807) 223-2859 ! Kano Reid $ kanoreid

Murphy’s Trophy Depot 73 Duke St

(807) 223-5737 murphystrophydepot.com ! Murphy’s Trophy Depot

Oshtugon Electronics & Accessories 539 Government St

(807) 223-7755 oshtugon.com

Parrs Jars 60 Princess St.

(807) 220-3654 parrsjars.ca ! parrsjars $ parrsjars

QSL Tackle 102 Queen St

(807) 223-5050 qsltackle.ca ! qsltackle $ qsl_tackle

Schmitd Greenhouses 6669 ON-17 Sew Many Things 29A King St The Bulk Zone 12 Earl Ave

(807) 937-5239 schmidtgreenhouses.com ! schmidtgreenhouses

(807) 323-4846 !SewManyThings29A

(807) 223-4009 ! Bulk Zone - Dryden

The Golden Nectar 325 Government St

(807) 223-4334 thegoldennectar.com ! thegoldennectar

The Naked North Art Gallery & Gifts 284 Government St The Palace

123 Queen St

The Pet Store

23 Duke St

(807) 223-2895 ! Naked North Gallery and Gifts $ nakednorthgarrlery

(807) 216-6018 thepalaceoutdoors.com ! DrydensPalace (807) 223-2399 the-pet-store-dryden.business.site ! The Pet Store, Dryden Ontario

Wilson’s Business Solutions 32 King St

(807) 700-5116 wilson.ca ! wilsonsbusinesssolutions

34 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Join our community! Check out our

amazing Open Roads

PUBLIC SCHOOL

As an Open Roads student, your child will experience a variety of programs to enhance their education, like our Eco Club, Junior Wolves, Project Sunset, Academies Program, Lego Club, and so much more!

We are proud of our school and our unique programs.

Stop by and see what Open Roads Public School has to offer!

Dryden HIGH SCHOOL

SCHOOLS IN DRYDEN! Located on the north side of Dryden, we have plenty of outdoor space, and our students make the most of our natural setting with lots of time outdoors.

New Prospect PUBLIC SCHOOL

Dryden High School is home to grade 9-12 students, as well as a very proud student centred staff. DHS has a wide variety of programming available to meet the needs of all Eagles.

Whatever the pathway, the expectations remain high. We encourage our students to get involved and we provide activities to help students become well-rounded citizens.

Our very popular French Immersion program starts in Kindergarten.

Stop in and see us, we’d love to meet you and your family!

Technology and Trades

With careers in technology and skilled trades in high demand, Dryden High School is proud to offer a wide variety of academic opportunities to help meet this high demand.

Arts

We offer a rich Arts program through three disciplines: dramatic, visual, and musical arts. All areas use community events to share their creativity and gain valuable experiences.

Athletics

Our wide variety of sports allows students to explore as many opportunities as possible.

Register online, anytime: kpdsbregistration.ca

LIVING IN DRYDEN

DRYDEN PUBLIC LIBRARY

36 Van Horne Avenue | (807) 223-1475

Our cozy community library has something for everyone; a comfortable space where community members and visitors can relax, enjoy a good book, use a computer or access our free wifi.

Take advantage of the many services we offer including: · Books, audiobooks and DVDs for all ages · Borrow our Ontario Parks Pass and fishing gear · French Language and First Nations collections · Archives of the Dryden Observer and a state-of-the-art microfilm reader · Digital resources, including ebooks and downloadable audiobooks · Research tools and reference services · Programming for people of all ages! · Computer access, free wifi and printing services

dryden.ca/library ! Dryden Public Library

36 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

DRYDEN & DISTRICT MUSEUM 15 Van Horne Avenue

| (807) 223-4671

Dedicated to the promotion and preservation of local culture and history in the Dryden area.

The Dryden & District Museum features four galleries on two floors, spread across 4,000 square feet of exhibit space. With over 10,000 artifacts, the museum houses permanent and rotating display and offers a research library. The museum is wheelchair accessible.

2 0 2 2 H I G H L I G H TS :

Some of our popular programs include: · Lego Club · Toddler Time · Story Hours · Summer Reading Club · Film Screenings · Knitting Circle · Kids’ Craft Club · Maker Space/Science & Technology Programs · Holiday Parties and Programs Library cards are free for all residents of Dryden, Migisi Sahgaigan, and all K-12 students in the Dryden area. Visit DPL to get your library card and start enjoying everything we have to offer.

Winter Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am – noon, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Sunday: Closed

Summer Hours: Monday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm Friday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – noon, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.

Sunday: Closed

MARCH 7 - MAY 25 A Pinch of Salt, a Dash of Pepper: History of Community Cookbooks A look at how cookbooks became a favourite fundraiser for community groups. How recipes have changed…or haven’t changed over time. Highlighted will be cookbooks made by Dryden and area community groups from the Museum’s Archives.

JUNE 13 - 17 Keep It Hanging Around A Dryden & District Museum Advisory Board fundraiser.

JULY - AUGUST My Story, My Tattoo A travelling exhibit from Wellington County Museum and Archives. Tattoos are living images that reveal important stories.

My Story, My Tattoo features 31 thought-provoking images and stories about their amazing tattoos.

FALL 2022 The Dryden Artists’ Association An annual exhibit, featuring works of art created by artists from Dryden and the surrounding area.

Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Closed 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. daily and on stat holidays

dryden.ca/museum ! Dryden & District Museum

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 37

DRYDEN RECREATION COMPLEX The hub of Dryden’s indoor recreational activities, home to the Dryden Memorial Arena and Pronger Rink. The pool and fitness centre houses the main pool, a therapeutic pool, steam room, cardio studio, weight rooms, squash court and meeting spaces.

Dryden Memorial Arena

84 Whyte Avenue | (807) 223-1425 Office hours: Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The Dryden Memorial Arena offers a variety of programs, clubs and services for all ages. With two arena and the option of dry or ice surface, there are many activities to enjoy such as ice hockey, public skating, figure skating, curling, special events, public rentals, weddings, conferences and training. The arenas are also home to the Administrative Office for the Community Services Department as well My Lift Transportation services

Public Skating

All ages and skill levels are welcome. Special events occasionally disrupt programming, please call or check our site to confirm programming schedules.

50 + Hockey

“If we can dream it, we can do it” The DREAM Community Recreation Fundraising Committee continues to fundraise for improvements to the Dryden Memorial Arena.

Completed upgrades to the arena include: · Sliding automatic doors · Lobby and washroom upgrades · LCD TV screens for schedule display · Automatic sliding doors · Financial contribution towards the development of a dedicated female dressing room.

Geared to older adults, ice time usually takes place during daytimes, November to March.

· Sport flooring upgrade for lobby, washrooms, walking loop and dressing rooms.

Pay & Play Hockey

· Financial assistance towards the development of an Accessible changeroom.

An hour of hockey open to all aged 14 years and older.

Daily Arena Walking

If the rain, snow or cold is preventing you from walking, the Rec Complex is the solution. The Rec Complex offers year-round indoor walking Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., excluding holidays and special events.

To donate to the DREAM project call Marnie Oliphant (807) 938-8091 or Janice Radburn (807) 216-8168.

Visit the DREAM Facebook page for more information and upcoming fundraising events.

Michelle Marie Photography Dryden

Dryden Civil Marriage Ceremonies

“Once in a lifetime day”

Dozens of ceremonies to choose from—simple, traditional, romantic, poetic, tree planting, and more.

Book any day of the week, at any location and at any time of the day.

Experienced marriage commissioners who have done weddings on docks, boats, beaches, in halls, on stages, on Hallowe’en, New Year’s Eve and many other special occasions and locations.

Call Dryden City Hall at 223-1147 and begin your joyous life together!

38 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

Dryden Pool & Fitness Centre

Pool & Fitness Centre Hours of Operation

Pool

Fitness Centre & Courts

84 Whyte Avenue

|

(807) 223-1430

The pool area is a multi-purpose facility offering opportunities for all ages, including a solar-heated 25m main pool, 9m therapeutic pool and a steam room.

Monday–Friday 5:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Fitness Centre

Pool

The cardio room is equipped with treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, steppers and a rower. The newly expanded weight room offers plate loads, selectorized equipment and free weights. The courts offer squash and basketball fun for ages 6 and up.

Group Fitness Classes

Well trained and experienced instructors teach a great variety of group fitness classes on land and in the water.

Classes are scheduled throughout the year and patrons are welcome to drop-in anytime - no registration required.

Swimming Lessons

Please check schedule at dryden.ca

Single Admission Rates Resident Child (0-5 yrs)

FREE

FREE

Youth (6-18 yrs)

$4.95

$6.15

Adult (19+ yrs)

$8.05

$10.10

Senior (60+ yrs)

$4.95

$6.15

Membership options available. Please visit Fitness Centre for details.

*Please note that hours and rates are subject to change

Group lessons, Red Cross, pre-school and Swim Kids provide learning opportunities all year-round. Private and semi-private lessons are also available for those who would like personalized attention and extra practice.

Employment Opportunity

Become a lifeguard and instructor. Leadership courses taught regularly at the Dryden Pool & Fitness Centre. Inquire at front desk for classes and certification requirements.

THE NORTHWEST CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD

Dryden Hockey School AUGUST 22-26 2022

Coach Randy Allen is well recognized Hockey Northwestern Ontario activity leader and has over 30+ years coaching experience.

FULL DAY

EVENING

Intermediate & Senior

Boys & Girls Pro Camps

Daily: 3 hours of ice, 1.5 hours of dryland, including training and swim (intermediate only)

Daily: 1.25 hours of ice, 1.25 hours of dryland, including drills and skills conditioning

EARLY BIRD: $375 REGULAR: $215

EARLY BIRD: $195 REGULAR: $215

EVENING

GOALIE CLINIC

Rookie Daily: 1.25 hours of ice EARLY BIRD: $135 REGULAR: $150

Non-resident

8+ Years

EARLY BIRD: $155 REGULAR: $180

7 Years & under EARLY BIRD: $145 REGULAR:$170

Food & beverages available from the on-site concession stand.

INFORMATION & REGISTRATION

(807) 223-1430 or visit the Pool & Fitness Centre

SCHOOLS OF HOPE

www.tncdsb.on.ca

TNCDSB offers: English Language Programming - K - Gr. 8 French Immersion at St. Joseph's School SK-Gr. 8 Native Language at Sacred Heart School Gr. 1-8

Enhanced learning opportunities for students utilizing 21st century technology A safe and respectful learning environment based upon Gospel values, allows students to acheive their full potential

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 39

History of the Dryden Police Service P R O V I D E D B Y B E T H A N Y WA I T E

On February 24, 2022, after 67 years, the Dryden Police Service transitioned to the Ontario Provincial Police. Here is a look back at the history of the Dryden Police Service from its origin up to 2005.

40 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

When this area was advertised for settlement in 1898, the Ontario Department of Agriculture boosted that along with various stores and hotels, Van Horne also had a doctor, a land surveyor, a magistrate, and a constable.

In 1899, the newly formed Municipality of Van Horne hired its first policeman, Dick Stephenson.

When Dryden was incorporated in 1910, Robert E. Barker was hired as the first Chief of Police and was a police force of one. For just $60.00 a month, he had a long list of responsibilities. Barker’s duties included: Chimney Inspector, Truant Officer, Collector of Taxes, Road Commissioner, and carryout instruction on the Road and Bridge Committee. When Barker fell out of favour with Town Council in November 1910, William Turnbull was hired as Chief of Police and Tom Hatch as Deputy Chief. However, Barker was reinstated in 1911 and remained Chief of Police until 1921, when Thomas Colliss replaced him. Colliss was a former Winnipeg Police Officer and veteran of the First World War. After Colliss resigned his position in 1928, Thomas Cunningham of Sioux Lookout accepted the post. Cunningham served for four years when he died suddenly in 1932 at just 45 years old. This was the decade of the Great Depression, and the job shortage impact was being felt in Dryden. When Council advertised for a new officer, they received 28 applications, all but one were from local people. Council hired a paper mill employee, Frank Russell. By 1938, a second officer was hired as the night policeman. Fred Snyder patrolled the town at night and was responsible for enforcing the Liquor Control Act in Dryden.

To provide some relief in the summer months, in 1939, a khaki uniform was issued to officers for the first time.

The Children’s Protection Act in 1941 dictated that children under the age of 16 must be off the streets by 9:00 pm, which the local police had to enforce.

To help enforce the new regulation, Dryden Council purchased the old fire bell from the Municipality of Van Horne and mounted it to the top of the fire hall hose tower. The Curfew Bell was wrung nightly at 9:00 pm.

Chief Russell retired in 1942. He was replaced with Chief constable Joseph Jenkins. In 1946, the police force increased as three new officers were hired. Between 1946 and 1947 there was quick succession in Police Chiefs.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 41

In 1947, Dryden’s Town Council signed an agreement with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to provide an additional three officers and a cruiser in exchange for contributing to pay the salaries and mileage, use of the office space, telephones, and jail cells at 64 King Street. This agreement was reviewed annually.

In 1955, Mayor J.L. Skillen and Council voted to form the Dryden Police Service. This was following parking meters being installed in the downtown area in 1954, which were another police responsibility. The new Chief Constable hired was Edmund Stanley, a former RCMP detective sergeant from Winnipeg. Other staff joining the force were Constables George Adams, Ben Busch, John Riley, and William Doyle.

The OPP continued to share the Town’s police office and cells at 64 King Street.

The newly formed Dryden Police Service had to makedo the best they could with little equipment for the first few months. Officers wore civilian clothing, there was one flashlight, and two 0.32 calibre Colt revolvers. Until a 1955 2 door-Chev sedan was purchased, patrols were done on foot. Uniforms were provided in July. In 1957, two Smith & Wesson 0.38 calibre revolvers were purchased secondhand from the Dryden Paper Company, to replace the Colt.

In 1960, Chief Stanley resigned and Edward L. Rogers, a 30 veteran of police work in Manitoba, was hired. Cpl. John Riley was promoted to sergeant and became the Deputy Chief when Rogers was away. The police force had a technological upgrade that same year. A two-way radio was installed in the police cruiser. Following an agreement with the OPP, they were operated on the same frequency as the OPP radios, to increase cooperation with the two forces.

During the 1960s the Police Department continued to expand. By 1962 the force comprised of the Chief, Sergeant, Corporal, four constables, and one meter inspector. In 1963, their first secretary, Jean Croft, was hired. During this decade, additional firearms were purchased, as well as two scuba suits, a second cruiser, a tap recorder, the first radar set, and sirens were installed on the cruisers.

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Chief Rogers retired in 1965 and Sgt. John Riley was appointed Chief.

Following the Ontario Police Services Act, passed in 1990, the first Dryden Police Services Board was appointed.

In July 1992, Chief Phillips left Dryden and Sergeant Bob Imrie was promoted to Chief of the Police.

By the 20th anniversary of the Dryden Police Service, in 1975, there were twelve officers and two civilian staff.

Between 1973 and 1975 more equipment was added to the Police inventory, including service revolvers, shovels, wrecking bars, flares, and crowbars. Attached to the cruisers new dual flashing red lights and a transistorized alternating siren and loud hailer. Three gas masks, a breathalyzer machine, and a vacuum cleaner for the cruisers were also purchased.

1992 became a historic year for the Dryden Police Service when Ann Tkachyk was hired as the first female office on October 12, 1992.

When the new millennium hit, the police service had 26 staff members, including 15 uniformed officers, communications staff, a by-law enforcement officer, and administrative staff. Training allowed the police service to have a full-time criminal investigative officer, forensic identification officer, a deputy chief and use-of-force instructor.

The old fire hall/police station was demolished in 1977 and the police offices were temporarily moved to 54 Kirkpatrick Avenue while a new Public Safety Building was being built at 64 King Street. Along with the police station, this new building would be used by the Building Inspector and the Dryden Fire Department, which opened on March 1, 1979. A new building included more modern communication systems, including its first radio operators.

In 2001, Chief Imrie retired, and Sergeant Shayne MacKinnon was promoted to Chief. Chief MacKinnon was the first Dryden-born Chief of Police with the Dryden Police Service.

After 32 years of service with the Dryden Police, Chief John Riley retired. Russell Phillips of the Terrace Bay Police Service was hired as the new Chief. During Phillips tenure, emphasis was placed on crime prevention through community services and support for groups such as Crime Stoppers.

When the Public Safety Building became too small to be home for both the Dryden Fire Department and Police Service a new fire station was built on Memorial Avenue in 2003 and renovations were made at 64 King Street to convert the space previously occupied by the Fire Department for police use.

A grand reopening was held on September 24, 2005. The building was named “The Chief John A. Riley Building”. 

McAULEY & PARTNERS

BARRISTERS SOLICITORS NOTARIES

Barristers, Solicitors, and Notaries

Serving Our Communities Since 1948 We continue to build on a long tradition of excellence Our areas of practice are Business Law, Real Estate, Wills & Estates, Family Law, and Criminal Law

Karen M. Seeley*, B.A., J.D. (Hons) Brock A. Moore-Bunney*, BSocSc (Hons), LL.B Teanna L. Sheridan*, B.A. (Hons), J.D. Samantha S. Campbell*, B.A. (Hons), J.D. Appointments available in Sioux Lookout and Red Lake on a regular basis. * A Lawyer Licenced by the Law Society of Ontario 4 Whyte Avenue Dryden, ON P8N 1Y9

Phone: 807-223-2254 Sioux Lookout: 807-223-2254

Fax: 807-223-3794 Website: mcauleylaw.com

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 43

DRYDEN WORKING CIRCLE In September of 2020, the City of Dryden took an important step forward towards making Dryden a more culturally-aware and inclusive community through the creation and formation of the Working Circle Committee. The Working Circle is a reflection of Dryden City Council’s strategic plan initiatives and the national movement toward truth and reconciliation.

The Working Circle Committee is a committee of Council and its eleven members are appointed by Council resolution. The Circle consists of five members representing Indigenous and Métis organizations, businesses, and communities, as well as five members representing the City of Dryden staff and Council, and one youth member.

The Committee is the first of its kind in Dryden and has played a critical role in helping the City make strides towards achieving its Strategic Planning goals. The group has met monthly since being adopted by Council and has been tasked with three key focus areas: · Identifying issues important to Dryden’s Indigenous communities; · Recommending actions the City can take to improve the experience of Indigenous people; and · Proposing ways the community can bring together Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents.

44 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

It didn’t take long for the group to get acquainted. After only a few meetings, the committee made some early recommendations and started working towards the development of traditional land acknowledgement statements that City of Dryden staff and Council could utilize at the beginning of various types of meetings, ceremonies, and gatherings. In December of 2020, City of Dryden Council accepted the recommendations put forward by the Working Circle Committee and the statements were created. Cheryl Edwards, the Co-Chair of the Working Circle and Executive Director of Dryden Native Friendship Centre said, “Land Acknowledgements mark a small and important step in the process of reconciliation and building a positive relationship with Indigenous people. By making a Land Acknowledgment you are taking part in an act of reconciliation.”

The formal Land Acknowledgement for use at large city events and special ceremonies is as follows: “I would like to acknowledge we are meeting on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Métis people of Treaty Three and Treaty 3 Adhesion. The Anishinaabe are the original caretakers of this land and called this place Paawidigong, meaning place of the rapids which is now known as Dryden. This land is important to the people of Migisi Sahgaigan (Eagle Lake First Nation), Waabigonii Zaaga’igan (Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation) as well as the Métis people of the area and the residents of Dryden.”

The Working Circle did not stop there. Soon after the land acknowledgement statements were put into action, the committee set their sights on changing the name of a prominent street in Dryden, Colonization Avenue.

In August of 2020 and again in January of 2021, educational videos were released to bring greater community awareness to the idea of renaming Colonization Avenue and the impact that the change would have on the community. Combined, the videos received thousands of views across multiple platforms including YouTube and Facebook, providing some stepping stones for the committee to work from. The driving force behind the videos and the changing of the street name was Lloyd Napish, Working Circle member and Band Councillor with Migisi Sahgaigan.

An initial presentation was then delivered to the City Council with recommendations from the Working Circle to begin the process of renaming Colonization Avenue.

At this point, the goal was to reach as many community members as possible and address any concerns that might be out there from the residents of Colonization Avenue and the potential implications imposed on them because of the name change.

An information package was delivered to every resident, organization, and business on Colonization Avenue detailing the process and steps they would need to take to change their address once the name change was complete.

Simultaneously, a public request was made for potential new street names with an overwhelming response of over 540 names received, 265 of which were unique.

In April of 2021, the committee members were proud to present two new names to Dryden City Council for their consideration. Boozhoo Avenue would replace Colonization Avenue North and Memorial Avenue would replace Colonization Avenue South. A request had been received during the naming process to consider the North and South areas (divided by the rail line) as separate for emergency response purposes, making it easier to determine the location of the emergency.

Memorial Avenue: Replacing Colonization Avenue S, Memorial Avenue pays tribute to those community members who have passed and how we came together to make a historic and positive change for Dryden. It also pays tribute to first responders, police and volunteers who have dedicated their lives to providing emergency services. It also pays tribute to the Indigenous ancestors who are and were caretakers of this area, its beauty, and its promise. Furthermore, Memorial Avenue recognizes the past tragedies of the residential schools and of murdered and missing Indigenous women in the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation. The Ojibwe word for Memorial is Miwendaagoziwaat.

Boozhoo Avenue: Replacing Colonization Avenue N, Boozhoo, an Ojibwe word meaning Welcome (Greetings, Hello), is highly visible to those traveling along Highway 17 through Dryden. Boozhoo recognizes Dryden’s

The Working Circle continues to address issues such as cultural awareness, inequities in housing and employment, and the relationship that our City has with area Indigenous communities. The goal is to bring our people closer together as friends, neighbours and residents of this growing community. 

indigenous population. Additionally, Boozhoo Avenue services a growing industrial and commercial development zone where there is great potential for growth.

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 45

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46 DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022

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DRYDEN REGIONAL AIRPORT

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EXPLORE DRYDEN SHOPPING & EATING

POINTS OF INTEREST

1

B&B Roadhouse Bar & Grill // 349 Government St

A B

Dryden Recreation Complex

2

Egli’s Sheep Farm // 20 km west of Dryden on Hwy 17

Milestone Park/Rink

3

Naked North Art Gallery & Gifts // 284 Government Street

4

The Pet Store // 23 Duke Street

5

QSL Tackle // 102 Queen Street

6

The Riverview Lodge // 148 Earl Avenue

7

Schmidt Greenhouses // 16669 Hwy 17W

C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R

BUSINESS & SERVICE J Sandy Beach Park

8

Hoover Electric // 158 Grand Trunk Avenue

9

McAuley & Partners // 4 Whyte Avenue

10

Timber Lanes // 38 Princess Street

11

Walter’s Auto Body // 2 Queen Street

E

Rotary Skate Park/Soccer Complex/ Splash Park Kinsmen Park/Splash Pad Sandy Beach Park Flying Club Pronger Park Laura Howe Marsh Plumridge Park/Splash Pad Eagle’s Landing Golf Course Yacht Club Library Museum Aaron Park Ball Diamonds Complex Mavis/Ghost Lake Trails Dryden Fair Grounds The Mosaic

Max the Moose & Visitor Info

Dryden Fire Service

Municipal Office

Dryden Regional Health Centre

Ontario Provincial Police

Boat Launch

DRYDEN TRAILBLAZER 2022 47