UM Issue 16-May 2019.indd : simplebooklet.com

telling the Muskoka story 24 Features 17 41 Article by Matt Driscoll Photography by Andy Zeltkalns There s no better way to view Muskoka than from the water For those who prefer the silent scenic route paddling is the method of choice From its base of operations in Bracebridge Bay the Muskoka Paddle Club has grown from a loose group of like minded paddlers to include competitive classes and more Article by J Patrick Boyer Just getting a framework for governing Muskokans was itself major pioneering work Scattered populations and poor roads made it difficult even to attend meetings However as the population grew they transformed from early townships into villages and towns providing a variety of services Muskoka Paddlers Finding Beauty in Simplicity 24 Early Muskoka Councils and Issues Engaging Them Wildlife Rehabilitation in the Wilds of Muskoka Article by Dawn Huddlestone Photography by Andy Zeltkalns Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary which inhabits 470 acres of Muskoka wilderness near Rosseau has been providing care to injured and orphaned wildlife for more than 40 years Now accepting approximately 800 animals annually the volunteers and staff return most to the wild from which they came 46 32 Understanding Muskoka s Watershed Article by Dawn Huddlestone Photography by Andy Zeltkalns While the Muskoka River Water Management Plan is a water control guide its purpose is not flood control The solution to flooding might seem simple on the surface let more water flow through the system but in practice it s not that straightforward 2 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 17 46 The General Store A Focal Part of Community Life Article by Meghan Smith Photography by Andy Zeltkalns The local general store has been a focal point of community life in the villages and hamlets of Muskoka ever since the very earliest days of settlement Most of them boast long histories whether passing through various owners and operators or remaining in the same family for generations 32

Page 5

Page 6

Page 7

58 Opinion Departments 9 11 By Don Smith Dressing up in pioneer fashion sampling foods from Muskoka s talented chefs touring Muskoka s breweries a yoga retreat getting ready for golf at a golfing dinner theatre and taking a cycling tour are just some of the activities that will help you transition into warm weather activities Muskoka Calendar Muskoka Insights 64 Muskoka Moments By Mary Storey 54 What s Happened MAY 2019 UNDERSTANDING MUSKOKA S WATERSHED Rehabilitating wildlife in the wilds Our Cover Celebrating general stores The challenges of early councils Paddlers discover a new vision of Muskoka Photograph By Andy Zeltkalns A powerful volume of water pours over Hatchery Falls on the Skeleton River which flows out of Skeleton Lake Friends of the Muskoka Watershed undertakes a significant program to assist calcium depleted forests paddlers can experience the challenge of a competition at their relative level chartered air service comes to Muskoka and local government is part of a larger provincial review 58 Cottage Country Cuisine If you like maple you ll like the multitude of offerings in this issue s culinary feature complete with recipes and tips for enjoying maple at your home or cottage 11 58 May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 5

Page 8

I W Call Mike Morrow 705 765 3195 www morrow electric com Serving Muskoka Lakes since 1952 ESA License 7000286 rewiring alterations heating telling the Muskoka story Unique Muskoka is published six times per year by Unique Publishing Inc Donald Smith Publisher and Editor NEVER be left in the DARK or COLD Donna Ansley Sales Lisa Brazier Design Susan Smith Administration get a quality home standby generator by GENERAC J Patrick Boyer Matt Driscoll Dawn Huddlestone Meghan Smith Mary Storey Tomasz Szumski Karen Wehrstein Andy Zeltkalns Contributors Annual Subscription Rates including HST where applicable In Ontario 30 00 All Other Provinces 36 00 U S 60 00 All Other Countries 72 00 HST 773172721 Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement Number 43268016 Copyright 2018 Unique Publishing Inc No content published in Unique Muskoka can be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher Experience You Can Trust Better Blasting Drilling We Know the Drill Experienced drilling blasting for roads ditches foundations and septic systems Exceptional service and top quality results CONTACT US NOW FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 705 645 4098 contact muskokadrillingandblasting ca 6 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 Mailing Address Box 616 Bracebridge ON P1L 1T9 Street Address 28 Manitoba St Bracebridge ON P1L 1S1 www uniquemuskoka com info uniquemuskoka com 705 637 0204

Page 9

Page 10

Muskoka Proudly serving Muskoka and surrounding area for 32 years Window Works Muskoka is a window and door centre proudly serving Muskoka and surrounding area for 32 years We provide consultation sales service and installation of quality products Our knowledgeable staff work with architects designers builders and home owners assisting clients in making the best selections for their new construction or renovation projects The advantage of working with Window Works Muskoka is that we provide a diverse selection of product giving us the flexibility of being able to suggest what is right for the design and budget of your project We offer clad exteriors with the beauty of wood interiors and maintenance free vinyl products sales windowworksmuskoka net 2358 HWY 11 RR 1 GRAVENHURST ONTARIO 705 687 7617 1 800 668 9858 8 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 11

Muskoka Insights plays in so many Muskoka communities While the spring melt is a welcomed end to the winter for many Muskoka waterfront property owners it has become a time of great concern particularly in recent years Rapid increases in temperature release the hold of water stored upstream in the previous winter s snowfall Frequently this results in flooding that causes damage to docks boathouses and other waterside facilities Often the extensive damage creates demands for intervention Changing weather patterns are known to have a direct impact on the rapidity of the melt and the downstream flooding impact In this issue of Unique Muskoka contributor Dawn Huddlestone writes about the Muskoka River Water Management Plan the role of the provincial and federal governments in determining water flows and what action is being taken Making headlines lately has been news of a provincial government review of regional governments in Ontario and the District of Muskoka falls within that endeavour In light of that historian and Unique Muskoka contributor Patrick Boyer takes a look at the earliest days of municipal governments long before the creation of a district council It s an interesting read of the challenges they overcame and the issues that brought them together Enjoy paddling Concerned abound Muskoka s wildlife Want to taste maple the flavour of spring Or looking for something to do We re certain you ll find lots of information in this issue of Unique Muskoka For regular content updates and to keep informed year round visit our redesigned website www uniquemuskoka com Happy reading Photograph Susan Smith As much as Muskoka has changed through the generations we are fortunate there are many links to the Muskoka of the past One of those enduring connections to the district s early days is the local general store Enterprising settlers were quick to recognize the opportunities neighbouring homesteaders brought Travel from community to community was difficult with the lake steamers often offering the only direct connection to far flung points in the district Transportation by horse or on foot ensured those looking for supplies were kept relatively close to their home community General stores many now gone became the source for generally just about everything With the opening of road links and greater development these outposts now more often fulfil the role of convenience stores but many remain the focal point of community interactions As a teenager and newly arrived resident of Glen Orchard over 50 years ago my first Muskoka summer job was at the Glen Orchard general store then owned by Henry and Constance Fudge The store was well established as the place where locals shopped year round while cottagers purchased the supplies they needed for their seasonal stays Henry would entertain young visitors by clacking his dentures while Connie was quietly aware of all the comings and goings in her role as postmistress Long before the days of rural mail delivery the Glen Orchard Post Office resided as a section of the general store a place young store clerks were forbidden from entering Both Henry and Connie were the source of important community information While the offerings may have changed the general stores in Muskoka s smaller communities continue to be the meeting place where residents permanent and seasonal connect and exchange their stories In this issue of Unique Muskoka we celebrate the general store and the role it Our local team is here to provide you with personalized insurance solutions For the coverage your family deserves call us today 46 Ann Street Bracebridge 705 646 9995 877 877 3929 www LesBell ca TRUST INTEGRITY SERVICE Your Home and Cottage Mattress Centre THE LARGEST SELECTION OF IN STOCK MATTRESSES IN MUSKOKA Premier Supreme by Marshall Mattress 6 MonicaMARSHALL Lane MATTRESS CO Bracebridge M 1 800 682 6861 705 646 2557 Or i gi na l P ock et S pr i ng TO LEARN MORE www mattressesofmuskoka com May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 9

Page 12

Page 13

Muskoka Calendar Photograph Muskoka Discovery Centre Archives Muskoka s history will be celebrated Wednesday May 1 at the Muskoka Discovery Centre during Mother McCabe s May Day Social Go back in time at Mother McCabe s May Day Social The best May Day lunch in Muskoka happens at the Muskoka Discovery Centre 275 Steamship Bay Rd on Muskoka Wharf celebrating Muskoka s history and the life of its pioneers in the years between 1861 and 1905 Costumes are not only allowed but encouraged It runs 12 30 2 30 p m and tickets are only available in advance Call 705 687 2115 for more info https calendar bracebridge ca default Detail 2019 0501 0030 Mother McCabes May Day Social Join fellow female shutterbugs capturing the splendour of Algonquin The second annual Women s Algonquin Photography Workshop happening May 3 to 5 is designed exclusively for women who want to improve their skills in landscape nature and wildlife photography All ages and skill levels are welcome for an intense but fun weekend that starts with classroom learning then sends you trekking into the park for in field instruction and back of the camera critique by nature photographer extraordinaire Helen E Grose Full package includes meals and shared accommodations single is extra at the Mad Musher Restaurant and Riverside Rooms in Whitney The entire lower level of rooms is reserved to give participants the space and privacy to feel comfortable sharing and asking questions madmusher com women s weekend html or helengrose ca It s not one not two but 20 yard sales all at once in Baysville If you re a yard sale lover you ll be happy as a kid in a candy store if you happen to wander into the village of Baysville on the morning of May 4 For more than a decade the Baysville Community Group has helped Baysville residents who have stuff to sell connect with buyers by creating a map of all sale locations that you can get from any of those locations local businesses and online Then travel the village between 9 a m and 1 p m and see what long yearned for treasure you can find for a ridiculously low price baysvillecommunitygroup ca finest restaurants and resorts sip alcoholic spirits from fine wineries and craft breweries from Muskoka and beyond and bid for fabulous items in the silent auction To give you an idea last year s participants included Deerhurst Resort Spencer s Tall Trees 3 Guys A Stove Hidden Valley Resort The Norsemen On The Docks Pub Bartlett Lodge Seven Main Caf Portevino Wine Bar Henrietta s Pine Bakery Muskoka North Good Food Co Op La Ferme Black River Game Farm Whimsical Bakery Muskoka Cottage Brewery Georgian Bay Spirits Lake of Bays Brewery Noble Estate Wine Spirits Pelee Island Winery Springhill Freshwater Co and many more https huntsvillefestival ca event may marche Try your aim at the Dwight Outdoor 3D Target Archery Tournament If you ve ever wanted to try the ancient and noble art of bow hunting without actually killing anything or you re already an expert looking for a fun competition the annual Dwight Outdoor 3D Target Archery Tournament may be just the thing Organizers invite you to let your inner Robin Hood come out as you trek through the woods and take aim at realistic looking foam animals bring your own equipment Everyone gets barbecue lunch and a T shirt and the best markspersons get cool prizes donated by local businesses such as restaurant gifts golf passes and archery equipment For more information and to reserve spaces contact Tanya Grainger at 705 380 1835 or tgrainger vianet ca baysville community yard sale Treat your taste buds to the best of Muskoka on May 4 The wildly popular May Marche happens Saturday May 4 at the Mark O Meara Grandview Golf Club near Huntsville The idea is to sample food from the region s Join the Pinecone Treadlers for weekly afternoon Spin Ins Whether you are a dedicated spinner fibre fanatic or someone who just wants to give spinning a try and see if you enjoy it while having a fun social afternoon the Pinecone Treadlers will welcome you to May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 11

Page 14

brew tours myshopify com collections muskoka edition It s food fun and fashion at the Fresh Fashion Show This annual fashion and dining experience is a great way to start your summer early happening on the evening of May 8 at the Gravenhurst Opera House for which it raises funds For more details and for tickets call 705 644 9392 email info gravenhurstbia com downtowngravenhurst com event fresh spring fashion show A tour of Muskoka designed exclusively for beer cognoscenti Brew Tours Muskoka Edition happens on May 11 and goes like this you arrive at 11 a m at Sawdust City Brewing Company in Gravenhurst take a tour of their brewing operation and taste their wares Next you 12 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 The Muskoka 2 4 Craft Beer Festival is the beeriest and some say best way to kick off the 2 4 weekend and a Muskoka summer The third annual edition of this event takes place May 18 and will showcase numerous great craft brews from Muskoka and the best artisan breweries of Ontario as well as live music from great local bands It happens next to the Muskoka River in Huntsville s River Mill Park Kids under 12 get in free youth 12 18 can purchase admission adults 19 and over may purchase tickets that include beer tasting downtownhuntsvilleadventures ca craft beer festival Namaste in Muskoka Unlock Your Potential Yoga Retreat The Unlock Your Potential Yoga Retreat with expert instructor Morgan Cowie offers an entire weekend of practice toward rejuvenation and enlightenment each day starting early with guided meditation and breath practice then continuing to movement practice designed as the organizers put it to light up our hidden potential and transform both our practice and how we view ourselves Taking place at Patterson Kaye Lodge Bracebridge the retreat will offer movements and poses appropriate for all experience levels from beginner to long time pattersonkayeretreats com may 23 26 retreat morgan cowie html Expert instructor Morgan Cowie will be offering an entire weekend of yoga activities Can you catch the biggest pike in Lake Muskoka You can certainly try at the Lake Muskoka Pike Open fishing tournament starting on the Boston Pizza dock at Muskoka Wharf bright and early on the first day of the Victoria Day weekend May 18 Last year s length to beat is 38 75 inches Boundaries are Lake Muskoka proper meaning no locking and no boating up Muskoka River For all the other rules regulations procedures results from previous years and registration information visit the tournament website muskokapike webs com Photograph Roman Kim The Pinecone Treadlers will be holding weekly meetings at Woodchester Villa in Bracebridge for those interested in spinning Photograph Susan Glen What you want more beer Come to the Muskoka 2 4 Festival Photograph Andre Carriere jump on the Brew Tour bus with your dedicated tour guide and zoom off to the Griffin Gastro Pub in Bracebridge for lunch and sample their brands Then it s Baysville and a tour of the beer making facilities of Lake of Bays Brewery plus sipping of their suds and finally back to Muskoka Brewery in Bracebridge for a brewery tour and you guessed it more beerdrinking their next Monday spin in It happens at Woodchester Villa close to all the downtown shops and restaurants in Bracebridge every Monday except holiday Mondays starting May 6 and ending in October running from 12 30 to 4 30 p m If you have your own wheel or distaff bring it if you don t someone will have an extra one for you to borrow Even men are welcome says member Susan Glen Email her at susanglen bell net for more information Big pike are lurking in Lake Muskoka waiting to be caught by those who take part in the Lake Muskoka Pike Open fishing tournament Calling all Guides and Scouts camp for a weekend at Santa s Village If you re a Guide or Scout leader looking for a great overnight adventure for your group check this out arrive at Santa s Village

Page 15

Page 16

JUST ARRIVED Friday night May 24 for traditional unit led camp activities Saturday is a full day of fun and adventure in Santa s Village Sportsland and Muskoka Zip Lines and Aerial Park and an after dinner campfire with unit songs and skits Meal options are available for Saturday breakfast lunch and dinner and Sunday breakfast The discipline and tradition of Guiding and Scouting combined with the joy of Santa s Village make for a total win THE ALL NEW 2020 BUILT FOR THE MODERN FAMILY santasvillage ca visit the park group events scouts guides Cycle through gorgeous Muskoka for mental health It s good for your personal health but also all proceeds from the 14th Annual Spin the Lakes Tour happening on May 25 go to Canadian Mental Health Association services in Muskoka and Parry Sound There is a range of lengths of course for riders of all levels but all courses are guaranteed to take you through stunning Muskoka scenery with spectacular rock formations and gorgeous lakes It s not a race so no pressure and vehicle food and water stations are provided as is a post ride brunch at Hidden Valley Resort 21 Robert Dollar Dr Bracebridge ON P1L 1P9 705 645 6575 cmha ca spin the lakes The war of the painters is on at Muskoka Art Battle 2019 Beautiful Floors Naturally HARDWOOD HARDWOOD LUXURY LUXURY VINYL VINYL CARPET CARPET CERAMIC CERAMIC TILE TILE NATURAL NATURAL STONE STONE LAMINATE LAMINATE AREA AREA RUGS RUGS WINDOW WINDOW COVERINGS COVERINGS MORE MORE Celebrating Our 70th Anniversary 1 95 Manitoba Street Downtown Bracebridge Across from the Post Office If the best art is produced under pressure the pressure will be intense and the art spectacular at the second annual Muskoka Art Battle happening on the evening of May 25 at the Annex in downtown Bracebridge Twelve local painters will have 20 minutes to produce a picture while the judges that s you walk among them gazing critically Those whose works get the most votes go on to the next of three rounds eventually producing a single winner who will then have the opportunity to compete provincially There will be food drink and live music as well and the art produced will be auctioned off www mommabears biz artbattle com join Over 40 Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream Flavours Chocolates Candies and Retro Sweets Rick s Buttertarts Muskoka Roastery Coffee Vegan and Kosher Treats ES D T 1 9 37 A I R Y 705 646 9079 chocolatemargaret bell net 350 ECCLESTONE DRIVE BRACEBRIDGE ON 705 645 2443 carpetonebracebridge ca 14 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 17

Photograph Kamryn McFarlane The Canadian Men s Chorus will perform at Trinity United Church in Gravenhurst on May 25 It s not every year this happens but it s happening in 2019 the Canadian Men s Chorus will perform at Trinity United Church in Gravenhurst on May 25 presented by the Muskoka Concert Association Entitled Shadowland this concert is an aural and visual exploration of light and darkness produced in partnership with art and art history students from Sheridan College and the University of Toronto Projections animations and lighting effects paired with evocative choral singing will take you on a journey like no other The concert starts at 7 p m but admission includes an afternoon vocal class for interested male singers Here s the play s 2019 Muskoka run May 25 North Granite Ridge Golf Club May 26 Grandview Golf and Country Club May 31 Deerhurst Resort June 4 Windermere Golf and Country Club June 5 The Ridge at Manitou Golf Club June 6 Muskoka Highland Golf and Country Club To check for more Muskoka venues as they are added dotthetpro ca current tour info Actress Alyssa LaPlume prepares for her role with some lessons at Muskoka Highlands Golf Club in Bracebridge muskokaconcertassociation com the canadian mens chorus Enjoy golf with your foursome dinner and then The Ladies Foursome The ultimate golf dining and theatre experience lets you enjoy a round of golf a fine golf club dinner and then a heartwarming and hilarious play by Norm Foster The Ladies Foursome Three female friends begin a round in honour of their playing partner who recently passed away but when they are joined by another old friend of the deceased about whom they had no idea the secrets confessions and surprises start coming out Photograph Jan Jacklin Canadian Men s Chorus invites Muskoka into Shadowland Traditional Craftsmanship and Product Innovation providng the Ultimate in Custom Docking Solutions Awesome May Shows Around Muskoka There are too many to list so visit the venue websites for acts artists and dates Algonquin Theatre Huntsville algonquintheatre ca en Rene Caisse Theatre Bracebridge thecaisse com Gravenhurst Opera House gravenhurst ca en opera opera asp Peter s Players Gravenhurst petersplayers com The Kee to Bala thekee com Call for a FREE Site Inspection 705 645 1900 www thedockdepot ca May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 15

Page 18

Page 19

Chris Varga one of the dedicated instructors of the Muskoka Paddle Club explores the Muskoka River MUSKOKA PADDLERS find beauty e IA m 29 40 PM in simplicity Article by Matt Driscoll Photography by Andy Zeltkalns F or more than a century the rugged shorelines of the Canadian Shield have drawn people from all over the globe to Muskoka There s no better way to take in the view than from the water and for those who prefer the silent scenic route paddling is the method of choice From their base of operations in Bracebridge Bay the Muskoka Paddle Club has grown from a loose association of likeminded paddlers to include recreational and competitive classes youth classes stand up paddleboarding SUP programs and guided paddling trips on waterways throughout the region I came to Muskoka and I remember thinking the Muskoka River is so beautiful I can t believe there s nothing going on here says club co founder Jackie Mitchell A former competitive swimmer and Paralympic athlete and later a swimming coach Mitchell says she didn t grow up canoeing and kayaking to any great extent but she s always had a love of being in and on the water Mitchell who is also a teacher at Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes Secondary May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 17

Page 20

Paddlers in a variety of craft head out from Bracebridge Bay for one of the regular weekend group paddles on the Muskoka River cruise on the Indian River in Port Carling I was enthralled with it right from the start says Hawke who recently paddled the Grand Canyon It wasn t until 2012 that Hawke began to get serious about paddling She joined a kayak club in Naples Florida where she learned about the importance of safety on the water and having the right equipment That really opened my eyes to what kayaking could offer and it s partly why I was so happy when the Muskoka Paddle Club was formed she says It gives me a chance to pay forward some of the expertise and friendship I found with those Florida paddlers In addition to the guided tours Hawke has been teaching rescue clinics for the club since its inception I m very big on boat safety and one of the main concerns when you are paddling a tippy boat is how to get back in the thing We practise helping each other assisted rescues and also self rescue techniques she says My advice to paddlers who don t have rescue skills is to paddle very close to shore Better yet come on out to a Muskoka Paddle Club clinic and have some fun getting wet Hawke says Muskoka is a one of a kind place to paddle The region is cross crossed with rivers where a paddler can lose themselves in the beauty of nature I think one of my very favourite spots to paddle is the Shadow River in Rosseau she says It s lovely with the trees 1 70 5 6 4 5 751 1 DAV L I N CA Canadian Distributor of High Quality 3 Season Sunroom Windows and Doors Available through your contractor or directly through Davlin 18 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 21

Justin Stanley in the yellow life jacket and Chris Lammers one of the youth instructors checking out some beautiful reflections on the south branch of the Muskoka River point he said Jackie you should start School said she had always wanted to a paddle club This is a beautiful river try kayaking Eventually she got the to kayak and canoe opportunity with a weekend learn toMitchell says Fekete s generosity and kayak course at the White Squall talent on the water are legendary In Paddling Centre in Parry Sound the past he s helped start up nearly a That s when I fell in love with the dozen rowing clubs He reached out sport she says I like being around to his contacts and helped the the water and being in nature I find it Muskoka Paddle Club acquire very refreshing It doesn t really matter the necessary equipment for whether it s competitive or not It s also the first year a chance to socialize and to take part in The Muskoka Paddle all of the other things that go along Club spent its first year primarily as a with it group of canoers and kayakers It took a series of chance encounters exploring the Muskoka River and a mutual love of Muskoka s recreationally waterways to get the club off the It wasn t until the second year that ground things really started to take off Sandy Schofield is an avid paddler After reading a local media article and the co founder of the Great about the fledgling club Rick Mroz Muskoka Paddling Experience which will be entering its eighth annual decided to get involved Currently the edition over the Thanksgiving weekend paddle club s commodore Mroz had previously run the paddling club in in 2019 The event is a chance for London and had a number of contacts paddlers of all ages and skill levels to Glen Dawson an instructor coach followed by avid volunteer Sandy Schofield helps carry one of the club s canoes to the across the province get onto the Muskoka River for a fall launch site on Bracebridge Bay paddle Since the beginning local experts champions and others have offered Both Schofield and Mitchell had at Toronto Island Canoe Kayak Club different times met with Michael Fekete I had invited Fekete and his wife Beryl guidance and coaching We ve been from Toronto Fekete is a renowned sprint up to Muskoka says Mitchell As we fortunate says Mitchell To have the kayak racer and the former coach of the paddled along our beautiful rivers at one Town support us with the land lease at May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 19

Page 22

Jackie Mitchell one of the club s executives and a former Paralympian and her husband Daniel Breton prepare for a weekend group paddle on the Muskoka River 20 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 Kelvin Grove was paramount to starting the club Since its inception the club has seen a steady increase in programs available watercraft and the number of club members It started basically as a recreational club and now we run the full gamut says Mitchell Programs include day camps a youth skills development program adult fitness classes adult north canoe classes and guided trips While many communities offer paddling clubs Mitchell says there s something special about paddling in Muskoka In some of the more urban areas of southern Ontario Mitchell says the water isn t always that inviting Aside from the pristine nature of the adjacent waterways Mitchell says there are other advantages to being based out of Kelvin Grove Park in Bracebridge The Muskoka River is very manageable she says It s narrow and there aren t many rocks There typically isn t a current that s going to drag you away and make waves and it s very easy to get to Mitchell says one of her favourite spots to paddle in the region is on the Muskoka River

Page 23

Glen Dawson and his daughter Cecily Dawson provide instruction to some of the youth in one of the paddling programs offered by the Muskoka Paddling Club at Bracebridge Bay near Matthiasville The river winds past beautiful scenery both manmade and natural and it makes for an ideal summer afternoon paddle Few people have more experience paddling the rivers and lakes of Muskoka than Liz Hawke A lifelong paddler in the region Hawke is a certified kayak instructor and hosts the Muskoka Paddle Club Sunday guided tours I grew up on Lake Rosseau using canoes and rowboats she says The water s a happy place for me but nothing can compare to the peace and the bliss I feel when I m in my kayak Hawke says she actually fell in love with kayaking by accident around 20 years ago when she borrowed a friend s kayak for a May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 21

Page 24

arching overhead We never know how far upstream we ll get due to the beaver dams but that s part of the intrigue With each changing season comes a new chance to appreciate the beauty of Muskoka and a new opportunity to enjoy paddling in the region The waterways of Muskoka can remain quite cold deep into the spring and paddlers eager to get a jumpstart on the season should wear a wetsuit or kayaking dry suit says Hawke Once the water warms up a bit enjoy the shoreline and islands of the big water lakes until the power boats start taking over she says In the summer spend lazy days on those beautiful rivers In the fall it doesn t matter where you choose to paddle because it s all fabulous Kayaking is a low impact sport that puts little pressure on knees or hips she says which is part of the reason why the paddle club includes members into their 80s The club has been fortunate enough to receive THE RIOBEL MOMENTI COLLECTION multiple donations over the years and they ll be putting AVAILABLE AT KNOWLES PLUMBING the push on through a fundraising campaign this summer to acquire more recreational canoes If all goes according to plan the club will continue to be a hub for those who enjoy the quiet beauty of Muskoka s waterways for many years to come S H OWRO O M Chris Lammers a regular helper in the Muskoka Paddling Club s youth program enjoys an evening paddle on the Muskoka River BATH K ITC H E N DESIGN INSTALLATION REPAIR SERVI N G ALL OF M USKOKA 279 MANI TOBA ST BR AC EBR ID G E 70 5 6 45 267 1 KNOWLESP LU M BIN G COM MUSKOKA BATH BATH KITCHEN SHOWROOM SALES INSTALLATION REPAIR SERVING ALL OF MUSKOKA 279 Manitoba Street Bracebridge 705 645 2671 muskokabath knowlesplumbing com 22 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 25

Page 26

Page 27

A spen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary which inhabits 470 acres of Muskoka wilderness near Rosseau has been providing care to injured and orphaned wildlife for more than 40 years It started as the passion of one woman Audrey Tournay whose legacy has been carried on and expanded upon by a dedicated group of directors staff and volunteers Spring and summer from about mid April to the end of August are a busy time at the sanctuary Many of the approximately 800 animals they take in annually arrive during that time That s up from about 300 animals a little less than a decade ago but managing director Howard Smith says the increased volume is more an indication of the sanctuary s improved ability to take in and care for them than a surge in the number of animals needing care There s still far more need than people providing a service says Smith who credits improvements to the sanctuary s facilities and access to a local wildlife veterinarian as part of the reason they ve been taking in more animals Wildlife rehabilitation is very labour intensive and it s usually privately funded so that makes it difficult for people to get into it in a very big way In the summer there are about 16 volunteers who live at the sanctuary in a hostel like setting a number that drops to three or four in the winter months They come from all over the world Belgium Denmark Indonesia Australia to provide care for the animals Most are students or interns working to gain experience for future careers though not many are likely to work in a setting like Aspen Valley Paid jobs in wildlife rehabilitation are not very common because often they are like ourselves where it s a charity based on individual donations notes Smith We don t get any government funding The sanctuary also has year round staff Smith who was a biologist with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry MNRF for about 40 years and who joined Aspen Valley after retirement and sort of went from a five day a week job to an eight day a week job Jan Kingshott who is director of animal care Mike Cardy who handles the property s maintenance needs and Elaine Kingshott who runs the office They re a small team with a big job one that requires some serious dedication May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 25

Page 28

Left Hayden Wilson one of the sanctuary s volunteers explains the feeding routine for the beavers Right Volunteer Megan Melia visitor Jayn Golsby and volunteer Johanne Fold y N ss watch the behaviour of one of the sanctuary s permanent bear residents Part of what makes Aspen Valley so unique often fed and frequently photographed He resident for the sanctuary s education is its size Many wildlife rehabilitation centres had a broken leg perhaps from being hit by program and was moved to a large natural operate on much smaller properties But the a car mange and rotting teeth thanks to the enclosure where he could hunt for his own meals supplemented by food provided by sanctuary only uses a portion of its 470 acres treats he d been fed by people Despite being conditioned to the presence the sanctuary to live out the remainder of his so it s in the enviable position of having room to grow as resources become available While of humans and despite the broken leg it took days There s also a resident moose which arrived Smith says it would be ideal for their services Smith about five weeks to catch him by to not be required at all the number of which time the break had started to heal He as a calf from another rehab facility that animals they see indicates the need is not was limping but still able to function and wasn t able to care for her broken leg With due to his advanced age he was 12 years old the need to change her cast every three weeks going to go away any time soon If you take one of the guided tours around the vet didn t want to risk surgery So they during treatment a task that had to be done the sanctuary s outdoor enclosures the treated the mange removed some teeth and at the veterinary college in Guelph Aspen Valley staff had to drive her back and forth animals you ll see are residents Most have started pain medication for his arthritis With the MNRF s blessing he became a logging thousands of kilometres in the come from poor situations in other places process But due to her like a zoo that closed down injury she developed and had to find homes for arthritis in one of her hind the animals in its care But legs and couldn t be there are also a handful of released She now acts as a injured animals that were surrogate for other calves treated by the sanctuary who arrive at the sanctuary that couldn t be released and need companionship Staff had to request special until they can be put back permission to keep them into the wild the MNRF usually The number of resident prohibits the keeping of animals at Aspen Valley rehabilitated animals says pales in comparison to Smith those it rehabilitates And One of the exceptions while the sanctuary s was an old fox that Smith captured in Algonquin success rate is high not Park He d been part of a every case has a happy family that was habituated Johanne Fold y N ss a volunteer from Norway feeds a baby squirrel a combination of ending Moose are difficult to raise because they are to humans they were specialized food and medication 26 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 29

Ella the Moose comes in for a closer look and hopes to get a snack from one of the sanctuary s workers prone to bacterial infections from the umbilical cord and they require constant care in the wild they would spend all of their time with their mother Deer with broken legs can t be confined for the length of time required for them to heal they develop a stress related condition called myopathy that is often fatal Those that the sanctuary can help are kept as isolated from human activity as possible in enclosures and cages far from public eyes where recuperating animals spend their days until they are well enough to be released Aspen Valley has developed a reputation for its work with aquatic mammals beavers in particular Orphaned beavers require lengthy care they don t leave their colonies in the wild until after their second year At the sanctuary they spend the first winter indoors during which the water in their tanks has to be changed daily In the second year they live in outdoor ponds where they can build lodges and forage plus sanctuary staff provide them with browse small aspen or maple branches that they can feed on and that help to keep their teeth sharpened Other animals that are treated at the sanctuary include smaller mammals like squirrels and raccoons and the larger bobcats lynx wolves and bears They don t have the facilities to care for birds reptiles and amphibians but will treat them if they can be released right away It s an ongoing task to keep the animals adequately housed The sanctuary s original enclosures were built using wood posts which the greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated MAHATMA GANDHI May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 27

Page 30

Jayn Golsby a visitor gets a close up look at a coyote named Tippy Part of the sanctuary s role is education began to rot over time They ve needed to be replaced with steel and chain link fencing which is a significant cost notes Smith although the sanctuary was helped tremendously by Fowler Construction which donated the security fencing used during the 2010 G8 Summit held in Huntsville This past winter staff worked on a new larger enclosure for the resident lynx and bobcat They have plans to enhance their bear enclosure and need to build a new wolf enclosure They also need to build a shop and add an intake building for arriving animals as well as expand their office space There is always ongoing construction to try to get things more efficient and also give us the capability of expanding space for the animals says Smith He adds after the enclosures have been improved as much as possible staff will turn their attention more to tourism and marketing opportunities There are about 18 kilometres of trails on the property surrounding the resident enclosures that could both be a destination on their own as well as help to educate people about the species they might SERVING MUSKOKA PARRY SOUND SINCE 1982 Quality Workmanship Dependability and Cutting Edge Technology Your source for all your electrical backup power and home automation needs sifftelectric com 28 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 705 765 0600

Page 31

see and may not ever have a chance to see in the wild as they hike by Guided site tours now available year round by appointment will still be an option Once you see the animals that makes a difference to just reading about them says Smith Staff are also considering wolf howls similar to those conducted in Algonquin Park Our wolves and coyotes howl frequently and pretty much on demand says Smith We are in a valley situation and you get some pretty impressive vocalizations And in everything they do the sanctuary encourages donations to help with their efforts Fowler Construction continues to be a helpful sponsor including donating the use of equipment and staff to help move injured animals like the time they brought an excavator to a spot along Aspdin Road to help with the aid of straps and chains carefully lift a moose with a broken leg Pet Science provides dog food and Large mammals such as bears can receive care at the sanctuary which makes every effort to Leadbetters provides meat for the animals to reintegrate them into the wild excelrailings ca 705 646 2508 May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 29

Page 32

Silvia Tassara a volunteer from Italy provides some much needed nutrition for a baby raccoon consume A Huntsville area couple donated a new truck and UTV and another local resident has provided funds to build a barn for orphaned moose calves Smaller donations are always welcome too Many people donate linens a constant need when caring for animals and sometimes maintenance related items like tools lumber or fencing that they no longer need The sanctuary publishes a wish list on its website of all the items it will gratefully accept And there is always always a need for funds to support the care of both the sanctuary residents and animals in 30 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 rehabilitation The sanctuary s donors and sponsors are generally concerned about animals as intelligent beings and they don t want to see something sitting at the side of the road hurt and being left alone says Smith I think that generally people who are concerned about animals are also concerned about the environment and that all figures into how we treat the earth Most of the animals we treat are injured or orphaned as the result of human activity It s our responsibility to at least give them a chance again It was Mahatma Gandhi who said that the greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated If that sentiment is applied on a much smaller scale to Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary it is a great place indeed

Page 33

Page 34

Understanding Water control isn t flood control a look at Muskoka s water management plan Article by Dawn Huddlestone Photography by Andy Zeltkalns A h spring It s a time of renewal and regrowth brought on by spring showers and sometimes flooding This winter came with an abundance of snow and unseasonable rain It had many residents concerned that once it finally released its hold of water there d be a repeat of 2013 s 100 year flooding event a mere six years later And flooding always raises a chorus of why didn t they do something about it They are the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry MNRF the government agency tasked with among other things regulating water flow in Muskoka Its bible in that regard is the Muskoka River Water Management Plan MRWMP which was created in 2006 and which defines 32 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 how water levels are to be managed via a variety of control structures primarily dams and weirs There are 42 such structures in the Muskoka watershed 29 of them owned and operated by the MNRF and one by the District of Muskoka 11 associated with power facilities and one that is privately owned Of those owned by the MNRF some are self regulating and others can be adjusted by the addition or removal of stoplogs to manage downstream flow But that flow management is not flood management While the MRWMP is a water control guide its purpose is not flood control The solution to flooding might seem simple on the surface let more water flow through the system but in practice it s not that straightforward

Page 35

The Muskoka River watershed is a cascading system Water managers must always consider what is happening upstream of the dam such as the amount of snow and what impacts may result downstream of the dam says Chris Near a resource management supervisor for the MNRF s Parry Sound District which includes the Muskoka watershed Earlier this year water operators drew lakes down as they do every year in anticipation of water entering the system from the melting snow pack as well as rain Thanks to an above average snow water equivalent the amount of water contained in the snow pack lakes were drawn down further than usual But there are limitations on both the amount of water that can be released downstream and how much water can be stored upstream without having adverse effects including potential flooding notes Near When water inflows from precipitation or snow melt are too high these adverse effects may not be avoidable The MNRF monitors water levels daily with water flow and depth being two of the factors used to determine what action it might need to take Historical data provides comparison points to help inform that decision The MNRF uses its own data as well as that measured by other parties like Environment Canada when making decisions regarding water control Water flows over the top of Hatchery Falls on the Skeleton River May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 33

Page 36

The early stages of spring run off pour over Bracebridge Falls with the historic power generating plant in the foreground In addition to water Environment Canada entering the system flows publishes both daily and can be affected by weeds historical measurements or trees that have fallen on its website https into the river that can wateroffice ec gc ca cause the water to back Real time data is up or due to changes in published within about features like waterfalls or six hours of collection riffles she says When time Water levels are those changes are more collected using digital permanent the model sensors stationed across can be adjusted to reflect Muskoka and based on current conditions models generated using It s not just the MNRF historical data those and dam operators that numbers can be used to use this data It is used for determine the discharge The Baysville dam controls water flow on the south branch of the Muskoka River as the river bridge construction where or how much water is leaves Lake of Bays high water levels and flow flowing past that point are important to know Periodically Environment Canada staff model is still correct and at sites like waste water treatment plants will visit a site where there are sensors the Karina Dykstra a hydrometric Tech that are restricted in how much effluent they most northerly sensor in Muskoka is on the nologist with Environment Canada s are allowed to release by how much water is Big East River near Arrowhead Provincial Meteorological Service of Canada is one of flowing by Flow data is even watched by recreational Park and there are others at Fairy Lake the the people who takes those measurements With tools that use acoustic Doppler users like canoers and kayakers who monitor north branch of the Muskoka River near Port Sydney the south branch of the technology to measure the depth and the it to know when the best conditions will be Muskoka River near Baysville and at Port speed of the water that s flowing she can The MNRF uses the flow data to decide Carling Beaumaris and Bala to do calculate how much water is flowing in the what they re going to do with their end of managing the water levels whether they re manual calculations to ensure that the river 34 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 37

Steve Willick adjusts a specialized instrument on the north branch of the Muskoka River allowing Environment Canada to collect a variety of important water flow data of Ontario s electricity going to pull logs or add market to competition in logs to the dams says 2001 Dykstra adding that The plans including they take manual the MRWMP establish measurements at the normal operating constations about every six ditions for both waterweeks and rely on the power facilities and water sensors the rest of the control structures within time To determine whether a limited geographic the MNRF needs to boundary notes Near make adjustments at a adding that while waterpart icular dam or series power production is one of dams water levels are consideration it must be assessed in conjunction balanced with other uses with other information and interests of the system such as weather forecasts as a whole including current watershed con An acoustic Doppler current profiler measures water current velocities over a range of fisheries and navigation ditions previous dam different depths The goal of a water operations both upstream management plan is to and downstream watershed characteristics for outlines water levels and flows to be contribute to the economic and social wellindividual lakes individual dam characteristics maintained throughout the system at various being of people of Ontario through the development of waterpower resources and to and how each lake responds to various dam times of the year That s the important part to note the plan manage these resources in an ecologically settings says Near In the spring MNRF District staff is about year round maintenance of water sustainable way for the benefit of present and connect with local waterpower operators on levels and flows not just those that occur in future generations says Near Local water a regular basis for updates and information the spring power companies Ontario Power about dam operations says Near The Across the province water management Generation Orillia Power Generation Corp Muskoka River Water Management Plan planning arose as a response to the opening Algonquin Power Fund Inc and Bracebridge May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 35

Page 38

Classic Handbags Traditional Quality Contemporary Style Crafted from one of the most desirable textiles in the world Elle Zed handbags are made from 100 pure wool that is handwoven in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland HANDBAGS BY ElleZed Creations Available at 28 Manitoba Street Bracebridge ON 705 637 0204 36 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 Generation worked with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry to develop a water management plan for the Muskoka River watershed In Muskoka while the MNRF operates water control structures that are not for hydro production the waterpower producers operate their facilities run of the river or based on the natural flow of the water says Near rather than using water control structures or holding bays to store water for prolonged periods of time although sometimes short periods are permissible and specified in the plan As a result run of river operations have less of an impact on flows water levels he says Within the MRWMP each water control structure has an individual operating plan that outlines the specific water levels and flows for that structure including target normal and high low water operating levels adds Near The dams within the Muskoka River Water Management Plan are operated year round to manage water levels with some dams requiring daily operation during certain times of the year like spring melt thunderstorms And while the MRWMP can help to mitigate flooding it s not intended to avert it completely It s also what helps to ensure that there s enough water in the system for recreational purposes In February 2018 the MRWMP was amended based on the Ministry s 2016 Maintaining Water Management Plans Provincial Technical Bulletin Among those amendments was the removal of the plan s expiry date which had earlier been extended to 2021 Water management plans are long term documents which may require periodic amendments to ensure that the plans remain current implement adaptive management and or provide clarity and certainty on how water levels and flows are managed says Near That doesn t mean that it can t be changed though Anyone can raise issues regarding the plan with the Ministry which can look to amendments as one possible resolution But there may be changes to Muskoka s watershed management on the horizon In August 2018 Ontario s Ministry of

Page 39

Page 40

Spring run off cascades down Hatchery Falls on the Skeleton River Chosen ad CALL FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING AND RENOVATION NEEDS 705 646 0900 admin cedarbeachgroup ca P O Box 330 Bracebridge ON P1L 1T7 MUSKOKA MADE CAPTURE THE SCENTS OF MUSKOKA Crimson Yard CANDLES Available at 28 Manitoba Street Bracebridge 38 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 Environment Conservation and Parks MECP announced 5 million in funding for a Watershed Conservation and Management Initiative and said it would match funding from donations and other levels of government up to an additional 5 million In a release issued at the time the Ministry said By protecting this particular watershed and working with the local community this initiative will help us develop a more comprehensive approach to watershed management which can inform current actions and future development The initiative will also respond to concerns raised by the community about projects such as the North Bala Small Hydro Project which is proceeding subject to a number of permits and approvals in place that require the facility to operate in the most environmentally responsible way This includes a water management plan that requires minimum continuous flow to protect water quality and aquatic habitat and to meet Lake Muskoka s water level objectives In follow up this spring a representative from the MECP said the government is in the process of establishing an advisory group that will engage local organizations municipal representatives Indigenous communities and the broader community to identify priority projects that could form part of this initiative We will be seeking the group s input as we design the program More details on the timeline for this initiative will be available at a later date The initiative will address the environmental challenges facing Muskoka including increased development pressures flooding due to severe weather events increasing nutrient loadings shoreline erosion and algal blooms and could include projects to identify environmental impacts and how best to manage them enhance monitoring of the watershed and shoreline restoration and upgrade septic systems and enhance septic inspections According to the MECP This initiative will help us develop a more comprehensive approach to watershed management in Muskoka that can be applied to other watersheds in Ontario Effective watershed management is beneficial to everyone especially at times when watersheds are facing pressures due to stresses such as increased development and flooding caused by severe weather events So perhaps there s hope for floodbeleaguered residents after all

Page 41

Page 42

Page 43

GOVERNMENTAL FRAMEWORK ily Arch ives Just getting a framework for governing Muskokans was itself major pioneering work Confederation in 1867 gave people new identity as Ontarians but local operations such as forming township councils remained unchanged under the pre Confederation Municipal Corporations Act of 1849 and despite Muskoka being surveyed through the 1860s and 1870s and Ontario encouraging settlement with free land organizing local government faced hurdles For scattered people to create any municipal structure at all they combined townships that scant voters might elect one council over them all United townships included Draper MacaulayStephenson Ryde CardwellWatt Morrison Muskoka and McLean Ridout That made it harder for councillors to get to meetings Enos Broadley first Walker s Point settler in 1869 and a councillor for United MedoraWood townships as local historian Joyce Schell learned needed three days for every meeting One day to walk to Bala one day at the meeting and one day to walk home the councillor said At least he could mull over the agenda en route and reflect on decisions taken during his return er Fam In 1868 with no printing press yet in Muskoka the four united township bylaws were printed by Orillia s Expositor This copy was Charles Liddard s signature upper right corner an early settler Macaulay farmer and first assessor of the United Townships M uskoka s councillors have plenty of issues today including their own futures with Queen s Park reviewing municipal government for our District In times like this if you think some perspective might be helpful here are several cameos of what engaged earlier Muskoka councils aph Bo y ISSUES ENGAGING THEM Article by J Patrick Boyer Photogr EARLY MUSKOKA COUNCILS May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 41

Page 44

Photograph Joyce I Schell Boyer Family Archives Enos Broadley would take three days to attend council meetings one to walk there one for the meeting and one to walk home Another hurdle Muskoka s developing municipalities faced was not being freestanding They were attached to either Victoria or Simcoe counties a two tier system Township reeves were also members of their respective county councils at either Lindsay or Barrie Muskoka historian Gary Denniss explained and had to attend those meetings too Only two full decades after Confederation in 1888 was Muskoka made a Provisional District with Queen s Park designating central Bracebridge as District Town a hub for government offices Muskoka communities equated progress with population growth As a township gained more people councillors could decide to delink from other townships When clustered communities reached the Municipal Act s population threshold to become a village they d separate from their host township as happened for Bracebridge in 1875 Gravenhurst three years later and Huntsville by 1886 Up to 1888 these changes had to be approved by the upper tier Victoria or Simcoe county council to which the township was harnessed ROADS Getting roads built was on the agenda of all councils How else would their section of Muskoka grow Local road building efforts included enforcing provincial statute labour laws requiring men to spend a fixed number of 42 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 days every year building and maintaining roads in their bailiwick Councils appointed inspectors and charges were brought against anybody shirking this obligation But settlers also had statutory obligations to clear acreage on their free land and private duties to farm their land and feed their families They pushed back and their elected representatives had to choose A township council could abolish application of statute labour in its jurisdiction but it then faced spending money raised through taxes on roads Councillors sought to upload whatever they could passing motions pressing the provincial government to build extend and maintain colonization roads and highways LAND USE Directly connected to roads was land use policy In pioneer Muskoka this was basically framed by treaties between Indigenous chiefs and the Crown provincial laws governing Free Grant Lands common law property rights and workings of the province s Land Registry system The provincial government s disjointed treatment of land use navigable waters and property rights pitted settlers against natives loggers against settlers and the provincial government itself against everybody regarding land clearance practices Early councils sued lumber companies for riverborne logs blocking passage for supplies and passengers settlers with councils backing rebelled against paying stumpage fees to the provincial government for trees they had to clear to get title to their free land Exactly where one person s property ended and another s began was a durably contentious issue councils did their best to contain They d appoint a line fences inspector to arbitrate disputes along contested boundaries when that failed councils took charge when that didn t produce a mutually agreeable sawoff the matter landed in Magistrate s Court POLICING As they were able Muskoka councils hired a constable to keep an eye on things stop bar brawls and road fights curb boys doings impound livestock and dogs running at large

Page 45

Photographs Boyer Family Archives Left Robert E Perry operated saw and gristmills at Bracebridge Falls was village postmaster and served as Macaulay Township reeve In 1875 Bracebridge voters elected him first village reeve Middle Bracebridge s main street in 1873 running north along Muskoka s main colonization road shows a settlement on the verge of qualifying as a village the first incorporated in the District Right James Boyer was municipal clerk of Bracebridge for a quarter century secretary of numerous Muskoka organizations editor of Thomas McMurray s Northern Advocate and from the 1870s to 1900 Muskoka District Magistrate because private prosecutions turned every citizen into a potential watchdog for malfeasance and misdemeanours The power of citizen s arrest was real and used sometimes Photograph Muskoka Heritage Place Huntsville prevent commercial activity on the Sabbath and other bylaw prohibited vices at all times Although law officers were hopelessly outnumbered enforcement was enhanced Photograph John Park Collection Huntsville s local government in 1886 back row village clerk R W Godolphin school trustee J R Reece councillors William Proudfoot J W Ecclestone and Robert Scarlett Front councillor James Hanes reeve Louis Kinton and school trustee F W Clearwater The lively settlement of Huntsville had grown by 1886 large enough for incorporation as a village producing as many cases in court as those brought by a municipality s policeman Moreover gaining a successful conviction meant the citizen prosecutor could collect half the fine which bolstered a municipality s law abiding order by converting citizens into vigilantes paid not by council but the offender himself FIRST VILLAGE COUNCILLORS IN BRACEBRIDGE Muskoka s first village to emerge from a township Bracebridge provided an example of transition In an era when councils were elected every 12 months to ensure democratic accountability municipal elections took place normally at the start of January Bracebridge resident Thomas Bowerman clerk of the division court conducted the voting and then swore in elected councillors at their inaugural meeting in 1875 Thereafter the municipal clerk ran elections Three former Macaulay Township representatives Reeve Robert Perry and councillors Hiram James McDonald and Joseph Cooper personified continuity in local affairs by getting elected to Bracebridge council Village councillors then appointed Macaulay township clerk James Boyer to also be theirs Each council s minutes record harmonious relations between the two municipalities as a result Macaulay Township s assets were 86 83 and five road May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 43

Page 46

Photograph Library and Archives Canada After 1887 s catastrophic fire Gravenhurst s core was destroyed The prominent remaining structure seen here was the town hall and fire department Main street Muskoka Road was left barren of buildings the rubble in the foreground all that remained of the Royal Hotel scrappers The cash was split equally with Macaulay getting the extra cent Macaulay kept three scrappers Village councillors then appointed a licence inspector granted five tavern licences and set licence fees for dogs 1 and billiard tables 10 Councillors next abolished statute labour commuting the service to payment of 75 cents per day that citizens otherwise would be called out to work on roads They appointed a road commissioner A new road to Gravenhurst was planned to avoid hills and shorten the distance To make Bracebridge an industrial centre as Muskoka historian Robert Boyer reported council wanted bonuses 2 000 each for tanneries woodworking industries and iron foundries which citizens approved in a referendum Councillors finding themselves empowered to speak officially for a single community operating as a distinct municipality soon enticed the Beardmore Tannery to the village substantially expanding the local economic base FIRST VILLAGE COUNCILLORS IN HUNTSVILLE Huntsville s first village council quickly got down to business in 1886 At their first couple of meetings Muskoka historian Susan Pryke noted councillors passed bylaws to impose order and safety on the settlement regulations for building fences standards for constructing 44 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 chimneys rules to restrain dogs prevent weeds and ban firing guns in the village Many settlers were religiously devout and those rising to municipal office amidst the hills of Huntsville saw a local opportunity to build New Jerusalem upon a shining hill The new council imposed Christian values for Preservation of Public Morals under its fourth bylaw banning the full catechism of licentious living such as giving a child apprentice or servant intoxicating drink without consent of the child s parent master or legal protector circulating indecent pictures writings or placards publicly uttering profane oaths obscene blasphemies or grossly insulting language The prohibition of an obscene public utterance gave rise to a legal dodge of merely cursing under my breath your honour Bylaw 4 also prohibited disorderly conduct at Huntsville public meetings on village streets or other public places Gambling and prostitution already offences under criminal law and beyond municipal jurisdiction were nevertheless reinforced by village councillors prohibiting anyone from keeping a gambling house or a house of ill fame or allowing gambling on his or her premises or harbouring persons of bad character Showing one s body in the community commons could amount to indecent exposure under Canada s criminal law However cleanliness being next to godliness in the ranking of Christian virtues and pragmatic councillors also understanding that washing counteracted the era s nauseating body odours they masterfully crafted an expedient and necessary measure to allow public bathing under the cover of darkness No person shall indecently expose his or her person by bathing or washing near any public highway between the hours of 7 o clock in the morning and 8 o clock in the evening making skinny dipping at dawn and naked bathing parties at night popular with Muskokans FIRST TOWN COUNCILLORS IN GRAVENHURST Booming Gravenhurst achieved village status in 1878 and was incorporated as a town within the decade Following May 1887 celebrations councillors ensured during that hectic summer that events got scheduled permits were issued and commerce thrived as trains pulled into the Gateway to Muskoka and locally based steamships plied Muskoka s central lakes Gravenhurst s busy sawmills rimming Muskoka Bay gave the town the nickname sawdust city and most buildings were of wood Then overnight on September 21 22 of that year town councillors agendas were suddenly transformed As far away as Manhattan a city paper carrying all the news that s fit to print reported that Gravenhurst s

Page 47

Photograph Lincoln Graphics Photograph Library and Archives Canada Muskoka Barging Family run construction company with over 35 years experience operating in the Muskoka Lakes area No job is too small or too big John Thompson Harvie elected Gravenhurst s first mayor in 1887 was well known for his extensive operation of stagecoaches which opened Muskoka land transport in pioneer times entire business section had been turned to ashes Aided by a strong north wind said the New York Times Main Street was completely swept Every business place in the town was destroyed and fully 50 families are without food and shelter The fire started around midnight in a foundry when workers were absent and townspeople slept Most buildings were of wood and built close together A strong north wind spread the flames fast Someone began ringing the fire bell furiously at 1 a m The Gravenhurst fire department s engine failed By the time Bracebridge firemen arrived with their equipment by train the devastation had claimed its trophy the heart of Muskoka s senior community Support poured in from all quarters Numerous financial donations appeared including from Bracebridge and Orillia councils Gravenhurst council set up an emergency committee to co ordinate the aid and deal with immediate necessities On September 24 as Gravenhurst historian Cecil Porter detailed Mayor John Harvey summoned Gravenhurst s council to assess the damage review mistakes that contributed to the devastation and make plans To resume business activity council permitted immediate construction of wooden structures on a temporary basis only New fire regulations were imposed with a code for construction requiring brick or stone tin to shingle roofs and shed sides Whatever the era fate can reorder a council s agenda and priorities 705 764 0765 muskokabarging com 1163 Milford Bay Rd Milford Bay ON BARGING STEEL CRIB DOCKS SEPTIC SYSTEMS LANDSCAPING Rotary Centre for Youth 131 Wellington St Bracebridge 705 644 2712 www clubrunner ca bracebridge BRACEBRIDGE GENERATION LTD Water Power Generating a Cleaner Environment Interested in more information or a free tour www bracebridgegeneration com May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 45

Page 48

THE GENERAL STORE A focal point of community life Article by Meghan Smith Photography by Andy Zeltkalns T he local general store has been a focal point of community life in the villages and hamlets of Muskoka ever since the very earliest days of settlement From humble beginnings as outposts general stores now serve small or rural communities by offering a wide variety of goods and services While retail operations and the shopping experience have evolved throughout the world many small communities 46 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 within Muskoka continue to enjoy this one stop shopping experience reminiscent of those pioneer years Most of the general stores throughout Muskoka boast long histories whether passing through various owners and operators or remaining in the same family for generations The small settlement of Beaumaris located on Tondern Island and connected to the mainland by a bridge at Milford Bay boasts one of the oldest shops in the Muskoka area Wilmott s Store

Page 49

Opened in the 1870s by John Harry Willmott the store s success and longstanding attraction was aided by Beaumaris being an important transit point now and during settlement During the steamship era travellers sought the Beaumaris Hotel or made a stop at Beaumaris on their way to other hotel destinations throughout the Muskoka lakes Today tourists and cottagers alike continue to frequent Wilmott s Store as they travel to and from their summer destinations or even as they are out cruising on the water for the day In the Lake of Bays area Miss Nelle s Caf and Antiques and Robinson s General Store both have long histories of being integral community businesses Miss Nelle s was originally operated as Langmaid s store by William Langmaid but Nell Connelly worked at the shop beginning when she was 18 years old following her move to Baysville from Bracebridge Miss Nell purchased the building in 1966 and ran it as a store for many years After selling the shop Miss Nell continued to visit and reminisce with locals and cottagers alike The distinct history and the fact that it s a heritage building are a big draw shares Karen Papadopoulos owner of Miss Nelle s We ensure all of the staff know the history so when they re serving a sandwich to a customer on the patio they can share that it was Miss Nell s favourite view of the water right in that spot And good coffee That s a big deal too Papadopoulos and her husband bought Miss Nelle s six years ago After cottaging in the Lake of Bays area for over 14 years and enjoying regular visits to the store they could not pass up the opportunity when the store was for sale While they ve invested in new furniture and ensure that all of the items they sell are within a 100 kilometre radius of the shop the building holds its charm from days gone by Miss Nelle s as it is now sells antiques locally made goods and merchandise as well as operating a caf with coffee sandwiches and baked goods Located by the bridge on Main Street in Dorset just off of Highway 35 Robinson s General Store has been owned and operated by the Robinson family since 1921 with four Left Historic Rosseau General Store opened in 1874 has served permanent and seasonal residents as a community headquarters for a variety of changing retail needs Above Miss Nelle s in Baysville was originally built in 1873 Below Steve Haddock takes a break from cycling to buy a coffee from Elyssa Kilmer at Miss Nelle s where the interior reflects the history of the building May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 47

Page 50

generations of family involved In the beginning as a 1 200 square foot traditional general store the clientele was made up of those in the logging industry and locals Through years of uncertainty the store survived Following the Second World War much of the land surrounding Dorset owned by the province was made available for sale and the area grew quickly as lots were purchased In 1950 a first addition was constructed for Robinson s General Store Throughout the years fifteen additions have been made to grow the store to over 15 000 square feet of retail space The original 1 200 square foot building is still intact as part of the dry goods section of the store as evidenced by the tin ceiling We couldn t have had a store like this back when I was a kid says Brad Robinson son of Harry and Marguerite Robinson the first generation owners of the store It s really four stores in one Food Town for groceries Home Hardware for tools and other home renovation items a men s and women s clothing shop and a gift shop While the store has expanded the atmosphere remains as close to the original old fashioned general store as possible offering everything one could need for a weekend away or to renovate a summer home People who have never been to the store before enter and stare at the birch bark canoe and the biggest fish caught in the Dorset area hanging on the wall It s fun to shop here shares Robinson It s a convenience too We ve grown to meet the need and the demand so people didn t have to travel so far to get their necessities Cottage based communities such as those Top Robinson s General Store has undergone many expansions that have allowed it to provide an ever growing variety of produce and goods Above Robinson s General Store in Dorset has been owned and operated by the Robinson family since 1921 48 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 51

Inset Bob Pacan is ready to greet customers at the Bent River General Store Above With a caf gas station and neighboring campground the store is a focal point for the community in Lake of Bays Milford Bay and Rosseau have little in the way of shopping aside from their general stores Every aspect of the cottage or camping experience is covered by a visit to a general store Directly off of Highway 169 in Glen Orchard next to Butterfly Lake and at the crossroads of many destinations in Muskoka is the Glen Orchard General Store The store serves as a place to fuel up purchase supplies order take out or even purchase a new barbecue A general store creates a feeling of stepping back in time reminiscing days gone by or childhood memories without having to give up modern day convenience Bent River General Store on Highway 141 offers a shopping experience for those staying at the Bent River Campground as well as a stopping point for those headed to Willmott s Store located in Beaumaris on Lake Muskoka was opened in 1870 The store s success and long standing attraction was aided by Beaumaris being an important transit point Skeleton Lake Windermere or anywhere in between A gas station along with a caf and store Bent River General Store s quaint interior is filled with homemade treats basic necessities and specialty items Purchased by Edward and Yolande Pacan in 2003 the Bent River General Store s fun and family friendly atmosphere keeps campers and tourists coming back each year In the past general stores offered full services Customers would deliver a list of requirements and store employees would prepare packages to be picked up How customers shop may have changed with selfserve becoming more prevalent but general stores maintain a connection to their roots while at the same time providing a niche shopping experience Opened in 1997 Silver Stream Farms Market focuses on farm fresh produce and locally grown products from the Muskoka region Right near the oldest swing bridge in the province bridging the canal connecting Lake Rosseau and Lake Joseph the market is an opportunity to source essential summer fare for the home or cottage In March 2017 Laurie McDonald and Brian Dollin purchased the Rosseau General Store following their dream of operating a store located in a heritage building Rosseau May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 49

Page 52

Above Rosseau General Store is a hub of activity during the summer months Lower left Looking down one of the aisles of Rosseau General Store with its original wood flooring Lower right Billy Pena and his son William enjoy an ice cream cone at the Rosseau General Store one of the diverse product offerings at the store General Store opened in 1874 by Jerry Homer has changed hands multiple times but has continuously served the Rosseau community since its inception Located at the corner of Highway 141 and Rice Street in Rosseau the Rosseau General Store remains an attraction and a mainstay within 50 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 the community Their six person winter staff blossoms to 30 employees as cottagers and tourists arrive Travelling to the family cottage or even to an annual rental property would not be complete without a stop to the nearest general store Often the are we there yets from children en route to a cottage or vacation destination are halted only by arrival at a landmark general store Childhood memories of summer usually include at least one if not many stops for ice cream while mom and dad purchased all the necessities for the picture perfect cottage

Page 53

experience Just a short walk from Port Sydney Beach on the southern edge of Mary Lake Jamieson s General Store stocks everything needed for a summer picnic including homemade pizza locally made butter tarts and cookies ice cream meat and eggs and light groceries What most people remember and love about general stores is the vast array of goods Visiting a general store provides more than a place to purchase basic necessities There is an attitude and an atmosphere in every general store that provides an experience in local culture that cannot be found elsewhere Over 12 years ago Debbie and Scott Nicholson purchased McNic s Corner Store in Minett from Debbie s sister and brotherin law The family business has been in operation for over 30 years as McNic s and was open for many years before that as the Lone Star The Nicholsons identified a need for staff at the local marina golf course resorts and other tourism based operations to have a place to get a meal a coffee or other necessities For tourists and cottagers they wanted to provide a place to purchase everything from fishing tackle to ice cream grocery to local meats from Stephen s Butcher shop local honey and local maple syrup It s the atmosphere shares Debbie Nicholson People can stay at their cottage or home and still purchase the things they need in a friendly atmosphere We re a place where people can be how they feel They re here to relax and have fun and so are we People are a meaningful part of the experience at general stores throughout Muskoka Robinson s General Store employs about 10 people year round but that number increases to 60 from May through August thanks to an influx of students looking for work in the summer The best compliment I have ever had was when I was introduced as the man who put me through university by a former employee shares Robinson The summer job we gave him helped him save for and attend university but we couldn t run the store in the summer without the students from high school college and university We try to strike a balance with having locals and cottagers on staff so we can cater to all of our customers says Papadopoulos Top Jamieson s General Store serves the needs of shoppers in the village of Port Sydney a particularly busy spot in the summer Bottom Mikayla Hughes a cashier at McNic s Corner Store in Minett is ready to greet customers Friendly service is a hallmark of local general stores May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 51

Page 54

Last summer my daughters and nieces were working there along with locals We re all very involved in the business and want it to stay a destination year round for locals and cottagers Seasonal residents who return year after year become familiar faces and each spring is a homecoming Customers return to their local general store by car or by boat to catch up with friendly faces and fill their grocery bags There are locals you know all the time but you get to know the summer staff and the new faces says Nicholson You get to know them and sometimes we see these kids every day It s hard to say goodbye at the end of the season Each general store offers its own unique experience providing a glimpse into the past and all the amenities of the present Whether you need to send a letter forgot your toothbrush or need fresh produce meats or other dry goods general stores throughout Muskoka take care of all of the needs of your home away from home A general store creates a feeling of stepping back in time reminiscent of days gone by or childhood memories without having to give up modern day convenience Located in Port Sandfield beside the cut between Lakes Rosseau and Joseph Silver Stream Farms Market is a popular spot with tourists and cottagers alike who arrive by both car and boat stoneway marble granite inc Les and Renata Partyka 1295 Muskoka Rd 118 West Bracebridge Ontario 705 645 3380 stoneway inc gmail com 52 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 w

Page 55

Page 56

Whats Happened Photograph Courtesy Town of Bracebridge Bracebridge Deputy Mayor Rick Maloney cuts the ribbon to mark the opening of the offices of Friends of the Muskoka Watershed The Friends of the Muskoka Watershed want you to haul ash 705 645 4294 TF 866 645 4294 STORE 228 TAYLOR RD BRACEBRIDGE OFFICE 1646 WINHARA RD GRAVENHURST 54 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 Forests are a vital part of the Muskoka landscape but declining calcium levels in the soil are impacting their health and that of the district s water bodies In January 2019 the Friends of the Muskoka Watershed FMW launched a three year study in collaboration with Laurentian University Trent University the University of Victoria to determine if wood ash could restore those calcium levels The organization put a call out to community members to donate wood ash for the project and quickly exceeded their year one goal of receiving donations from 100 households This is Canada s first residential wood ash recycling program to solve the calcium decline problem in our lakes and forests says Audrey van Petegem marketing director for Friends of the Muskoka Watershed This is a model that the Ontario government hopes other communities will follow The Friends are aiming to have 1 000 households participating in the project by its third year and they encourage anyone who wants to participate to email ashmuskoka fotmw org It s for anybody who is interested in helping the local environment and to make a difference so we can continue to enjoy our lakes and forests The more the merrier says van Petegem We couldn t do it without community involvement They have a limited number of ash collection cans available for residents who sign up for the program The project received a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation OTF The FMW hosted a recognition event on April 23 at Brooklands Farm to thank the OTF for its 733 000 contribution The Friends of the Muskoka Watershed recently opened a new office at 126 Kimberley Avenue in Bracebridge which will help the organization to spread its message to the community more easily It makes our presence known says van Petegem For more information about the organization and its programs visit friendsofthemuskokawatershed org Paddlers there s a new event coming to the Oxtongue River this spring A new two day paddling event Algonquin Outfitters The OX named for its scenic setting on the Oxtongue River near

Page 57

Photograph Randy Mitson Algonquin Outfitters Photograph Courtesy Town of Bracebridge The OX will be a weekend paddling event with the opportunity for individuals of all skill levels to participate The event will be held on the Oxtongue River near Algonquin Park Algonquin Park will make its debut on June 15 16 with options for paddlers of every ability from parents out for a fun day with their kids to professional racers The weekend begins with Battle of the Paddle a high intensity short course race just 600 metres long that divides paddlers into categories and then pits two teams against each other in elimination rounds until there s just one team left To keep the competition fair all teams will use standardized canoes provided by organizers On Saturday night there will be opportunity for paddlers to gather for a barbecue The paddling community is a really social community says co race director Mike Varieur It s a really positive community Everybody is very welcoming and supportive Then on day two paddlers have the choice of a 10km sprint a 40km marathon or a 30km tri paddle which takes the triathlon format onto the water with three paddling legs of 10km each using different vessels a canoe a stand up paddle board and a kayak Race organizers believe this will be the first time a tri paddle has been hosted in Ontario The weekend event is intended for anyone passionate about or interested in paddling from novice to pro level paddlers says Varieur adding that their goal is to provide opportunities for any type of paddler from those who just want to get out on the water with a community of people to those who are looking to get the fastest time possible The event is on the doorstep of the flagship store of title sponsor Algonquin Outfitters who are proud that we can be part of it right where our history began says Randy Mitson AO s marketing director 1 70 5 6 4 5 751 1 DAV L I N CA Custom Boat Awnings Protect your investment mba May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 55

Page 58

Varieur and Rob Horton are also the force behind the Algonquin Outfitters Muskoka River X the world s longest single day expedition paddling race which happens in September Algonquin Outfitters The OX will replace two former events the Big East River X and 24 Hours of River X For more information about The OX or the Muskoka River X visit muskokariverx com Muskoka Airport welcomes Porter Airlines for summer passenger service Porter Airlines will begin twice weekly passenger service on June 27 between Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and Muskoka Airport The approximately 20 minute flights will operate on Mondays and Thursdays until September 3 On long weekends the Monday service will switch to Tuesdays John Klinck Chair of Muskoka s District Council said Scheduled service from Porter is a wonderful opportunity to bring more visitors to Muskoka to experience all our District has to offer The Muskoka Airport is an important District asset Council and the Muskoka Airport board look forward to working with our partners at Porter and RTO 12 to make this a premier experience that travellers to Muskoka deserve The Muskoka Airport is a Transport Canada certified facility and a Canada Customs airport point of entry Passengers of the new service will be able to connect with Porter flights headed to other destinations Bud Purves Muskoka Airport board chair said The board is very excited for the arrival of scheduled service and the first class passenger experience that Porter will bring to the region The Board would like to recognize District staff and leadership from Chair Klinck for their diligent work to ensure regulatory compliance through innovative solutions to meet passenger safety requirements at Muskoka Airport We also wish to thank the efforts of Minister Garneau and Transport Canada staff for helping to ensure this new cost recovery CATSA screening service was made available to Muskoka Additionally to incentivize the inaugural service tourism organization RTO12 will re design its popular Fuel Fun Package to become the Fly Explore Package and offer 100 CDN in spending vouchers to domestic and international travellers Municipal government review is underway A review of second tier governments across the province including the District of Muskoka has begun We promised the people of Ontario that all levels of government would work harder smarter and more efficiently said Steve Clark Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing in a media release this spring Our government is putting people first by seeking local input on how to improve governance decision making and service delivery for regional governments and their member municipalities Hospice Muskoka Let the Sun Set on What Was A NEW DAY IN HOSPICE PALLIATIVE CARE IS ARISING Come Join Our Family at Hospice Muskoka Be a Part of History as Andy s House Opens in The Fall of 2019 VOLUNTEER DISCOVERY DAY Thursday April 25 2019 9 00 11 00 am Port Carling Community Centre Lower Hall C ome Learn How You Can Help C ome Explore Who You Were Meant to Be For more information call 705 646 1697 or check out www hospicemuskoka com 56 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 59

The review is being led by special advisors Michael Fenn and Ken Seiling who were appointed by Clark in January As part of the review process they will consider input from residents Comments can be submitted online until May 21 at www ontario ca page consultation regional governmentreview via email to regionalgovreview ontario ca or by mail to the Local Government Policy Branch Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing 777 Bay Street 13th floor Toronto Ontario M5G 2E5 The ministry says it will report back on feedback it has received in the fall of 2019 MUSKOKA ALGONQUIN PARK HALIBURTON Snowshoe Canada will host inaugural Muskoka snowshoe race in Huntsville in 2020 Snowshoeing is growing in popularity both as a recreational activity and as an organized sport Despite being known for its sport tourism Muskoka has until now been without an official snowshoe competition That will change next winter when Snowshoe Canada adds Huntsville to its list of locations for the Ontario Cup Series in 2020 With the support of the TriMuskoka triathlon club Snowshoe Canada will wrap up the annual series on March 1 2020 at Camp Tawingo in Huntsville The series also includes events in Caledon Haliburton Kawartha and Collingwood The Muskoka event isn t just for endurance athletes We have all sorts of people from all walks of life attend our events from casual walkers with their dogs to elite athletes interested in competing in national and world level competitions says Dave Robinson president of Snowshoe Canada the governing body for snowshoeing activities across Canada The event at Camp Tawingo will include a 5k short course a 10k long course a sprint event for kids and other winter activities For more information about Snowshoe Canada visit snowshoecanada ca Details about the event and how to register will be posted there in the coming months GREAT ADVENTURES START HERE 1 800 469 4948 WWW ALGONQUINOUTFITTERS COM P O Box 330 Bracebridge ON P1L 1T7 Phone 705 645 4874 E mail mcnairelectric muskoka com www chuckmcnairelectric com ECRA ESA Licence No 7001083 Canadian Fine Craft Original Art 40 YEARS Join us this event filled anniversary season 1979 2019 Barb Sachs Raku 28 MANITOBA STREET BRACEBRIDGE 705 637 0204 1073 Fox Point Road Dwight 705 635 1602 oxtonguecraftcabin com May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 57

Page 60

The Great Canadian Maple Meal Article by Karen Wehrstein Photography by Tomasz Szumski it a little heat Seasonally The sap has run the it s great for between syrup making is done and winter and spring The true Canadians strong and snow s just melted so you free want to celebrate our want that warmth but it s glorious golden bounty of spring so you want the sweetness in every way How sweetness of maple and all about a meal with every those flavours go together component graced by its nicely presence We shall return to the To help you recover from matter of blending winter we ll start off with a flavours lovely warming soup as For now according to appetizer courtesy of the my tastebuds Palubiski is Pasta Shoppe in Bracebridge right on all counts This and the delightful young Stephanie Dunn is co owner of couple who own it Adam the Pasta Shoppe in Bracebridge thick rich warming soup is something of a paradox Palubiski and Stephanie is it savoury or is it sweet It has the tang Dunn Along with its sister business Beat of parsnips and meatiness of garlic foiling the Wheat it s a one stop shop for pasta the sweetness of sweet potatoes maple baked goods take away meals sit down syrup and onion Spices from distant climes meals catered meals and everything else give it a soup on of the Middle both gluten free and tasty East You could also Roasted Sweet Potato and Parsnip Soup compare it to is Palubiski s recipe created especially for that fall Unique Muskoka though he tried it out on an event he catered shortly before time of writing to rave reviews The heavier root veggies are good when it s still cool out and have a natural sweetness that goes well with the maple syrup he says I like using sweet potatoes as they re not overly starchy and give good texture The cumin and cinnamon adds spiciness and the ginger gives staple pumpkin pie and related soups as a similar spice starch combination is created The allium factor gives this soup greater complexity and depth The addition of the cream adds richness though of course it can be omitted for a dairy free portion Now let s proceed to our main dish which was first served at the Muskoka Maple Festival in Huntsville and at the Muskoka Maple Trail all over the district three years ago Selling out in record times was Charred Pork Back Ribs with Muskoka Maple Molasses Barbecue Sauce created by Jeff Suddaby the chef and owner of 3 Guys and a Stove In case you re curious the name of this renowned Huntsville restaurant was conceived 35 years ago when Suddaby and several buddies were playfully inventing names for restaurants When one of them said 3 Guys and a Stove Suddaby wrote it down The restaurant opened in May 1996 and yes it was owned by three male partners the other two Maple syrup adds sweetness to the warmth of Adam Palubiski s Roasted Sweet Potato and Parsnip Soup 58 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

Page 61

adds rmth sted Soup Roasted Sweet Potato and Parsnip Soup Adam Palubiski The Pasta Shoppe by Beat the Wheat Ingredients 3 4 large sweet potatoes peeled and cubed 4 5 medium sized parsnips peeled and cubed 1 large yellow cooking onion 1 clove garlic minced cup pure maple syrup tsp ground cinnamon tsp ground ginger tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp ground cumin 4 5 sprigs fresh thyme 4 Tbsp cooking oil cup heavy cream 4 cups vegetable stock Salt and pepper Method In a large mixing bowl combine cubed sweet potatoes and parsnips with of which have since parted ways I don t call it work Suddaby enthuses I play in the kitchen Out of every 50 or so experiments he says he ll get several dishes that are good and one that is great Chef s tips oh is this man a gold mine for chef s tips He gave me more than could ever fit in this space even the secret of how 3 Guys breaded calamari is always tender which I will not divulge I will however pass on his lesson on the three grades of maple syrup and their uses The lightest syrup produced at the beginning of the sap run is ideal for savoury dishes The middle of the season golden brown syrup at peak sweetness and favoured by supermarkets is ideal for pancakes waffles and such applications Finally the dark less sweet late season syrup is best for baking The maple inspired rib recipe contains the secret of meat falling off the bone tender ribs a long slow braise in a hot oven It keeps them moist as well Suddaby says a needed step for meat with little fat I like a real robust sauce so I added the Recipes 2 Tbsp cooking oil maple syrup cinnamon ginger and nutmeg Toss until evenly coated Preheat oven to 375 degrees F On a large baking sheet spread tossed items evenly and bake in oven for 25 minutes or until golden in colour and aromatic When done put aside Heat 1 Tbsp of cooking oil in a medium sized pot Add onion and garlic and saut until translucent and fragrant Add roasted vegetables and vegetable stock if needed add a bit of water to make sure vegetables are covered Cook until vegetables are soft enough to break apart with a fork Using a blender or food processor pur e soup until smooth Add water to desired thickness Season with salt and pepper to desired taste Experience everything Muskoka has to offer in a refreshingly affordable revitalized environment 10 guest rooms 4 suites 2 000 sq ft of dining lounge space pinelodgemuskoka com 705 385 2271 Located in Port Sydney ON Canada 484 Muskoka Road 10 MONDAY WING NIGHTS bestwingsinmuskoka To serve add hot soup to a bowl drizzle heavy cream on top and garnish with fresh thyme optional molasses to take a little of the sweetness out of the maple It gives it that richness he says noting that he gets his syrup from Bill Hubbard of Sundridge The use of hickory smoke was inspired by his time spent studying traditional Louisiana cuisine on location with Chef Prudhomme and others Why is the sauce cooked for half an hour despite ingredients that don t need that much cooking To cook the flavours together Suddaby explains Creating those blended flavours that s the key That last step of baking the sauced ribs is for the same purpose to marry the flavours of sauce and meat into an inextricable whole That is crucial he advises The result is a sticky smoky sweet and sour tender juicy and charred delight that does indeed fall off the bones and has you licking your fingers thoroughly If you can t be bothered to make the sauce you can buy it bottled at 3 Guys Suddaby has some interesting ideas for side dishes to go with the ribs such as salt and vinegar potatoes poke holes in skins marinate 4 5 hours in cider vinegar throw Enjoy the authentic avours of Mexico in Muskoka 155 Manitoba Street Bracebridge or Call us for Takeout 705 645 1935 F I N D O U R M E NU ON FAC EBOO K May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 59

Page 62

Page 63

in a little sea salt and bake in foil or corn gained such fame they are hitting the on the cob marinated in tequila and lime shelves of fine stores across Muskoka It has juice 4 5 hours grill in its husk just a hint of maple melts in your mouth The wine must be robust obviously to and does have a crust that tastes subtly like stand up to the flavour explosion that is wheat these ribs so Chef Jeff suggests a However dessert for today s meal will be Californian or Australian cabernet Or if a Maple Cranberry Scone Dunn s starting you want to go completely maple and stay point when creating recipes is asking her totally local you could no let s save this customers What s something you re idea for dessert missing since going gluten free A number If adding a salad you of them replied a good might want to visit English scone Dunn Yummies in a Jar in tweaked the recipe until the Baysville to pick up one of texture and flavour were two dressings which right and the rest is history contain syrup from Mark s Same as the butter tart Muskoka Maple near you d swear you can taste Huntsville Balsamic wheat and the syrup and Maple Oil Free Vinaigrette icing sugar glaze is a is just what it says it is and delicious touch of a relatively new addition to decadence If that s not Lynn Murden s vast line of decadent enough for you innovative products that whip up some whipping has become one of the most cream enhanced with maple Jeff Suddaby is chef and owner syrup to taste Dunn also popular Muskoka Maple Oil Free at 3 Guys and a Stove in gets her syrup from Mark s Huntsville Vinaigrette a Yummies staple To pair with scones on a for 15 years combines the syrup with cider cold May day try any of the Pasta Shoppe s vinegar local cranberries from the Iroquois three hot maple bevvies Masala Maple Cranberry Growers near Bala and certain Chai Muskoka Maple Fog and the classic herbs It was originally inspired by and Maple Latte When nibbling on a hotter created for to come full circle 3 Guys day you might add the wine we began to and a Stove suggest earlier Red Maple Dessert Wine by For dessert we will return to the Pasta Muskoka Lakes Winery which is located on Shoppe where Stephanie Dunn boasts that the same property near Bala as the famous if you taste her desserts without knowing Johnson s Cranberry Marsh This wine is they are gluten free you still can t tell To best served chilled and just like the scones test this claim I nibbled one of her performs the succulent dance of opposites Muskoka maple butter tarts which have by invoking the sweetness of maple syrup and the A robust sauce including maple syrup provides tartness of cranberries both moisture to the Maple Barbecue Pork Rib recipe offered by chef Jeff Suddaby Muskoka Maple Barbecue Pork Back Ribs Jeff Suddaby 3 Guys and a Stove Prep time 3 hours 20 min Serves four Ingredients 2 lbs pork back ribs 2 full racks 2 Tbsp pickling spice Muskoka Maple BBQ Sauce 1 6 oz can tomato paste cup Muskoka maple syrup cup molasses 2 Tbsp cider vinegar cup water 3 Tbsp brown sugar 2 drops hickory smoke 1 tsp mustard seed 1 tsp salt 1 tsp corn starch mixed with cup water Method Preheat oven to 425 F Cut both racks of ribs in half place in a roasting pan cover them in water add 2 Tbsp pickling spice cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 5 hours In a pot add all remaining ingredients except the corn starch mixture Whisk together and heat slowly Right before boiling add cornstarch mixture and cook on low heat for 30 minutes then set aside Remove ribs from oven and grill racks on both sides on a preheated barbecue till charred Once grilled place ribs in a cast iron pan place pan on grill and pour Muskoka Maple BBQ sauce over ribs Close barbecue lid and allow sauce to caramelize onto ribs 10 15 min Enjoy May 2019 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 61

Page 64

The maple syrup and icing sugar glaze is a delicious touch of decadence in the Maple Cranberry Scones baked by Stephanie Dunn from The Pasta Shoppe by Beat the Wheat in Bracebridge at once But there s another drink capable of accompanying this maple meal throughout in the tradition of sparkling waters but with a special twist Who d have thought of taking the sap from maple trees and instead of boiling it down into syrup carbonating it lightly and putting it in a can Todd Croxall of Croxall Foods in Huntsville that s who and the product is named appropriately Tapped He explains simply This stuff tastes really good Why wouldn t anyone drink it It s not quite so simple in truth to last the desired 18 month shelf life the sap has to be treated via special technology The idea came to him in 2015 but the method was not perfected until last year When you sip some the carbonation hits you first but lightly then there s an ever so delicate hint of maple It s good for mixing for people who like club soda as a mixer Croxall advises The original Tapped is already in stores look for ginger flavoured Tapped soon and vanilla flavoured Tapped later in the year Life doesn t get more maple than this Maple Cranberry Scones Stephanie Dunn The Pasta Shoppe by Beat the Wheat Ingredients 2 cups all purpose gluten free flour mix or all purpose flour 3 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt tsp xanthan gum cup sugar cup fresh or frozen cranberries 86 g chilled butter 1 3 cup cubed 1 3 cup buttermilk 1 egg beaten Maple syrup to brush over scones before baking Method Pulse dry ingredients in a food processor for 30 seconds Add cubes of butter to the food processor with the flour mix pulse 10 times Mix together buttermilk and egg in a liquid measuring cup slowly but continuously add into the food processor blend to a soft dough Add cranberries Pulse three times to mix them in Scoop dough onto a floured silicone mat or baking sheet lined with parchment paper sprinkle dough with flour and form into a 1 inch thick disc Cut disc into six pieces Brush with maple syrup Bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes or until lightly golden Glaze 1 Tbsp maple syrup 1 3 cup icing sugar Add maple syrup to icing sugar mixing with a spoon until wellblended and smooth Tapped is a sparkling maple drink that is produced in Huntsville 62 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019 UM Ad 20

Page 65

Page 66

Muskoka Moments Muskoka offers everything we want By Mary Storey Photograph John Storey Centre has led to 18 years of My connection to Muskoka daily volunteer work I have began in 1906 when Jim served on the board of Beatty a distant relative of my directors of the Antique and mother s moved from Classic Boat Society Schomberg to Bracebridge Muskoka Steamships and with his new wife Bertha My Discovery Centre and the mother s family came to executive of the Dispro Bracebridge to visit at least Owners Association once a year Also in the late Maintaining the archives 1930s my Aunt Muriel taught building yearly exhibits at Rosseau Falls and after teaching children editing marriage bought cottage and publishing the property at Gull Rock on Lake organization s magazine and Rosseau completing research requests Home for me was also fill my days What a Schomberg and in 1957 when wonderful volunteer job I was 12 years old I remember that allows you to keep your my first summer visit at my aunt and uncle s cottage Wow Mary Storey is serenaded while attending last year s antique boat show in Baysville mind sharp constantly meet new people and learn life at the cottage was so all at the same time The Heritage Boatworks Gravenhurst Finding a waterfront property different for a farm girl and so beckoning shop keeps my husband from getting bored on Lake Muskoka allowed us to fulfill Those cottage visits continued fun with Muskoka is truly wonderful place to live another dream We acquired over time two cousins and neighbouring teenagers were So many lakes to explore in the Dispro and vintage wooden boats One was a 20 foot summer highlights to a young girl Soon so many interesting back roads to travel The boyfriends and girlfriends were on the scene 1949 Greavette runabout now called Shania towns are smaller and the people are more Ojibway for I ll be on my way and a This led to those chaperoned weekends to relaxed probably because they are also 1947 Disappearing Propeller Boat called the cottage where my new boyfriend John retired or are vacationing at the cottage Muggins The boats have influenced our Storey fell in love with me and Muskoka Muskoka offers everything we want in our lifestyle considerably We are very much Four years after our marriage we bought retirement involved with the Antique and Classic Boat a cottage lot close by on High Lake before When I moved my ailing 92 year old Society and the Dispro Owners Association we owned a house Soon we had erected a mother to the Pines Long Term Care facility Summers are filled with boating events Viceroy cottage and for the next 27 years we in Bracebridge her greeting to everyone was daily evening cruises and attending boat had a fantastic cottage life Family parties I ve always wanted to move to Muskoka shows and events as far away as Minnesota colleague s weekends neighbours from and now I m here A passion and Chicago and the Finger Lakes Winters are Aurora get togethers a friend s wedding and opportunity I also feel blessed to share spent with friends dreaming about summer neighbourhood regattas filled every summer boating adventures and doing maintenance and New Year s weekends As we progressed Mary Storey grew up in a farming family in on the boats Just add a 1930 Model A with our working lives the one and only Roadster to the fleet and we re always having King Township As an educator she served in goal was to work hard add to our savings many positions over 45 years teaching mainly fun and make Muskoka our retirement mathematics science and technology in By coincidence the month we signed the destination elementary schools in York Region and teaching agreement to purchase our home in This goal was realized when we both teachers In retirement she is a volunteer and Gravenhurst the Muskoka Wharf and retired on the same day in June 2000 enjoys boating travelling and reading history Wenonah II ship projects were announced Having sold our home in Aurora and our and historical fiction The advent of the Muskoka Discovery High Lake cottage we made the move to 64 UNIQUE MUSKOKA May 2019

UM Issue 16-May 2019.indd

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3

Page 4