August 2017 : simplebooklet.com

1978 to 2017 39 years STRONG Real Estate Professionals Serving the Muskoka Lakes since 1978 LAKE ROSSEAU 2 Lots with over 1500 of shoreline and 140 acres of privacy add a furnished 3 bedroom attractive cottage with large garage a 2 bedroom guest accommodation 1 slip dock sand beach and deep water If you want privacy this is it Richard Wallace 2 950 000 LAKE MUSKOKA This open concept 4 bedroom 1 5 bath cottage has a 2 bay garage boat port and beautiful views to Action Island the waterfront is exceptionally nice with deep water off the dock sandy bottom and smooth rock outcroppings surrounding the shore Adam Wallace 1 049 000 LAKE MUSKOKA Beaumaris Privacy furnished 3 bdrm Redesigned and renovated cottage with newer addition dock and boathouse has 3 slips and 650 sq ft of accomm above S exp long views with spacious decks this spectacular private property can be enjoyed all year Sandy Cornell 2 795 000 DRAPER AND ANSELMI LAKES Tranquility and beauty abound at this privately owned sanctuary 3 100 acre parcels which included 2 undisturbed pristine lakes magnificent shoreline abundant wild life year round home heart of vacationland nestled between lakes Rosseau and Joseph close to all amenities Richard Wallace and Adam Wallace 1 350 000 LAKE ROSSEAU 908 frontage with long views sand bottom and 4 bedroom cottage 2 slip boathouse with great access Adam Wallace 1 995 000 PRIME FOR RE DEVELOPMENT www realestateinMuskoka ca 705 765 6176 Richard Wallace Real Estate Limited Brokerage Broker of Record Broker Sales Representative

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25 August 2017 telling the Muskoka story 42 48 34 Sister Art A Shared Passion 19 By Dale Peacock Sisters Jane and Karen Gray share a passion for the outdoors As artists they have chosen very different mediums to express the inspiration they receive from the natural world 42 Learning Whitewater Wisdom Features 19 The Art of Paddling By Kristi Koruna Artist Tom Thomson found peace and solitude while canoeing on the lakes of northern Ontario Now a paddle is the focus of a contest to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of Tom Thomson s death By Carmen Kuntz Being confident in whitewater can open the potential for greater exploration freedom and fun from the seat of a kayak 46 Iconic Loon Faces a New Threat By Doug Smith The haunting call of the loon echoing across Muskoka s lakes is being replaced by the honking chatter of the Canada goose 25 Research that Makes a Difference By Meghan Smith The holistic approach employed by the Dorset Environmental Science Centre monitors the entire ecosystem researching the stressors on watersheds 46 2 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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11 72 AUGUST 2017 Departments 11 Muskoka Calendar The schedule of events has not slowed in August and includes everything from garden tours and antique boat shows to beer festivals fireworks art shows road races and more 60 What s Happened Renewing connections between Muskoka and Norway improving shoreline and lake health a retrospective Lake of Bays photo gallery and lighting Bracebridge Falls are updated 63 Cottage Country Cuisine The dining rooms aboard the RMS Segwun and Wenonah II recall a bygone era with wood and brass polished to a piano finish and offer a dinner with an exceptional view 72 Living in Muskoka Elizabeth Mason who has a palpable affection for Muskoka is a remarkable woman who has made an equally remarkable commitment to the Muskoka Conservancy SISTER ART a shared passion 52 Iconic Loon faces new threat Features 52 Riding a new Muskoka wave By Sandy Lockhart A motorized surfboard developed by a Gravenhurst based inventor is attracting attention in Muskoka and beyond as a new way to experience the waves 56 When walking was not a workout routine By J Patrick Boyer When Muskoka was first settled it was routine for children to trudge miles to school and for men or women to hike to Orillia for mail hardware items and basic foodstuffs water research makes a difference Learning Whitewater Wisdom THE ART of PADDLING Our Cover Photograph by Kelly Holinshead Sisters Karen and Jane Gray share a passion for the outdoors as a muse for their art Opinion 9 Muskoka Insights By Don Smith 80 Muskoka Moments By Gord Durnan August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 5

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KNOWLES PLUMBING Muskoka s Bath Plumbing Centre telling the Muskoka story Sales Installation Service Design Consultation Unique Muskoka is published six times per year by Unique Publishing Inc Donald Smith Publisher and Editor Donna Ansley Gord Kidder Kim Rinaldo Sales Heather Glumac Designer Susan Smith Administration Celebrating our 60 th year serving Muskoka Visit our Showroom Featuring the most complete selection of quality bathroom kitchen fixtures J Patrick Boyer Larry Carroll Heather Douglas Gord Durnan Colin Erricson Dawn Huddlestone Kelly Holinshead Lynn Keane Eleanor Kee Wellman Kristi Koruna Carmen Kuntz Sandy Lockhart Pam MacKenzie Josiane Masseau John McAllister Randy Mitson Contributors Jon Partridge Dale Peacock Doug Smith Meghan Smith Tomasz Szumski Scott Turnbull Karen Wehrstein Andy Zeltkalns Annual Subscription Rates including HST where applicable In Ontario 30 00 All Other Provinces 36 00 U S 45 00 All Other Countries 59 00 HST 773172721 Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement Number 43268016 Copyright 2017 Unique Publishing Inc No content published in Unique Muskoka can be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher 279 Manitoba Street Bracebridge Tel 705 645 2671 visit us at knowlesplumbing com 6 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 muskokabath Box 616 Bracebridge ON P1L 1T9 www uniquemuskoka com info uniquemuskoka com 705 637 0204

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Muskoka Insights who have studied our lakes from this remote facility local politicians such as the late Stan Darling would not have been able to champion the need for international agreements that limited the causes of acid rain Individuals taking their own action or working collectively with others who share a common concern are doing their best to ensure future generations will be able to enjoy the Muskoka they know and love One such individual who is making a difference is lifelong cottager Elizabeth Mason The longtime supporter of the Muskoka Conservancy has made an important and substantial statement by gifting her beloved Lake Joseph retreat to this organization While not all can produce policychanging science or provide gifts that will ensure the conservation of land for future generations each of us can make a difference in our own way with the choices we make To learn more about the Dorset Environmental Science Centre and Elizabeth Mason turn to articles in this issue of Unique Muskoka There s much more in this issue of Unique Muskoka that you need to read The iconic call of the loon is being heard less often and stressors both natural and human are having an impact If you re creative or appreciate fine art you ll be interested in an upcoming paddle art contest and the work of two talented Huntsville sisters There are also many things to do from learning how to kayak to enjoying a dinner on the big boats that ply Lakes Muskoka Rosseau and Joseph And don t overlook the extensive Muskoka Calendar for a quick read of the many events offered throughout Muskoka Photograph Susan Smith When it comes to thinking of the future of Muskoka most would point to the preservation of the environment as topping their list of concerns What would Muskoka be without its life giving watershed Would we attract nearly as many visitors if our rocky terrain was barren of the lush forests that are home to wildlife Without the solitude of open spaces would we have the same opportunities to put our minds on pause and refresh our bodies History has taught us the environment is both fragile and resilient perspectives one might think are in total contradiction There was a day when the district was first settled that the Muskoka environment did not receive the respect it deserved Early photos show a landscape that was clear cut Our waterways were often the easiest way to dispose of unwanted toxins Water was polluted fish died terrain was damaged In later years airborne contaminants from neighboring jurisdictions threatened the life of our lakes through acid rain However we can learn from our past Despite its ignoble start and the more recently documented threats Muskoka has demonstrated an ability to regenerate That doesn t mean we should accept the rebound of our environment s good health as part of a recurring cycle Too often the interim pain and long term consequences are not worth any short term gain that comes from ignoring the fragility of our environment In Muskoka we are fortunate to have a wide range of organizations dedicated to ensuring the district s good health and avoiding the mistakes of the past Government agencies at all levels are constantly reviewing and updating policies and regulations that are aimed at preserving Muskoka We can be justifiably proud of the role of the Dorset Environmental Science Centre Without the research and data compiled by the gifted team of scientists and technicians Happy reading O pen For live chat push door Real local people Real local service With State Farm every policy comes with your own personal agent I pride myself on being part of the local community so I can truly understand and best serve the needs of my customers Get to a better State Get State Farm CALL ME TODAY Les Bell Ins Agcy Inc Les Bell Agent Bracebridge ON P1L2C1 Bus 705 646 9995 Toll Free 877 877 3929 www lesbell ca State Farm branded policies are underwritten by Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company or Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company State Farm and related trademarks and logos are registered trademarks owned by State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company used under licence by Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company and certain of its affiliates 1410005CN 1 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 August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 9

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Muskoka Calendar Photograph Courtesy of Jon Partridge Every town and hamlet in Muskoka pulled out all the stops for Canada Day fireworks shows honouring the country s 150th birthday but Gravenhurst still has enough money left in its things that go boom in the night budget for a Civic Holiday show that will be worth seeing It happens at the Muskoka Wharf and will be accessible by car boat bike or foot on Saturday Aug 5 The spectacular fun begins at dark gravenhurst ca If you enjoy a garden stroll and appreciate the opportunity to leisurely browse artwork the Artful Garden lets you do both theartfulgarden ca Civic Holiday weekend in Muskoka kicks off with Bracebridge Midnight Madness a longtime tradition that happens on the downtownbracebridge com People who love both classic cars and classic boats will be in their element at this dual purpose show happening 9 a m to 3 p m on Saturday Aug 5 at Rosseau Waterfront Park The cars which will be polished to perfection have style you just don t see any more and the timeless boats serve as a reminder of Muskoka s boating history as many were designed and crafted right here As a special bonus this year Sunset People powered water activities is what the Make a Splash Waterfest is all about The sixth annual edition of this event happens at Gull Lake Rotary Park in Gravenhurst on Civic Holiday Saturday Aug 5 and features non motorized aquatic fun swim races sandcastle building kayaking paddleboarding canoeing rowing and much much more It runs from 10 a m to 5 p m Rosseau Waterfront Park will be the place to be on Saturday Admission is free gravenhurstchamber com August 5 to see antique cars and boats August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 11 Photograph Courtesy of John McAllister Created on the Bracebridge property of potter Jon Partridge and his gardener extraordinaire wife Suzann the Artful Garden is an outdoor gallery that weaves works by more than 40 artists in with spectacular horticulture to create a fantasy land of beauty and inspiration You ll walk among hundreds of handmade pieces including sculpture wall hangings bird feeders jewelry iron work stone carvings and much more displayed amongst the flowers in the peak of their glory This year s annual exhibition now in its 20th season began on July 22 and ends on Aug 12 Drop by between 10 a m and 5 p m daily evening of Friday Aug 4 on Manitoba Street running from 6 to exactly 11 59 p m As well as mega bargains from friendly downtown retailers there ll be live music and fun for the little ones at Memorial Park Kids Zone

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dorsetcanada com A long cherished tradition in the town of Gravenhurst continues with the two day Celebrate Gravenhurst Street Festival and Sidewalk Sale on Friday Aug 11 and Saturday Aug 12 Enjoy Over 30 Ontario craft brewers will be featured at the Ninth Annual Session Muskoka Craft Beer Festival entertainment great deals from local There ll be live music food and lots of fun merchants and fun activities for the kids Cruises will bring the Idyllwood and Peerless Peninsula Recreation Centre in Minett the It promises to be a good time for the entire II Be sure to bring sunglasses to shade your event offers three options the GMP Magical family You ll find it along Muskoka Road Muskoka Kids 1K Run the Colliers 5K Fun South in historic downtown Gravenhurst eyes from the gleam off these painstakinglyRun Walk and the classic 10K a course the shined beauties gravenhurstbia com organizers describe as perfect for runners facebook com rosseauclassiccruise who like hills muskokarocks ca If you appreciate a good brew mark your calendar for the Ninth Annual Session Muskoka Craft Beer Festival which takes place on Saturday Aug 5 at Annie Williams Memorial Park in Bracebridge It will feature beers from more than 30 Ontario craft breweries as well as all Ontario wine cider and spirits and food from local eateries Live musical performers include The Human Rights and the Tragically Hip tribute band Practically Hip Watch or if you dare compete in the Beer Olympics Last year more than 4 000 people had a great time at this festival Happening on Civil Holiday Sunday Aug 6 from 9 a m to 4 p m the Dorset Arts Crafts Antiques Show features a wide variety of handmade items as well as antiques and collectibles from artists craftspeople and antique dealers in the area The Dorset Lions Club won t let you go hungry offering barbecued goodies and a Love Fest hosted by Chetolah Pottery Studio and The Open Space takes place on Saturday Aug 12 on West Harvey Ave in Dorset Billed as a one day street festival of artists vendors food drink live music families and fun all in the name of love it originally started with a wedding reception that was so much fun that it became an annual event open to the public Performers include Theatre Arcturus Robyn Leigh of Muskoka Belly Dance Sean sessionmuskoka ca Camp Oochigeas in Muskoka is a very special place that gives youngsters battling cancer a summer camp experience A well equipped clinic onsite enables them to continue their treatments while experiencing all that summer in Muskoka has to offer The Muskoka Rocks Road Race happening on Sunday Aug 6 supports this worthy cause Starting and finishing at the 12 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 Photograph Courtesy of Lynn Keane Photograph Scott Turnbull courtesy of Session Muskoka bake sale It all happens at the Dorset Parkette on the shore of Little Trading Bay on Lake of Bays on Hwy 35 between Main Street and the bridge Muskoka Rocks Road Race is a noteworthy event that raises funds to support Camp Oochigeas

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an outdoor adventure gone wrong a stroke or heart attack a life saving surgical procedure We re here for you when you need us most and we re not going anywhere To provide the best patient care today we rely on state of the art equipment sophisticated information technology safe and high functioning buildings The provincial government pays for hospital operations but communities are expected to pay for capital needs We are here for you Please be here for us We need your support today Colin Miller Executive Director 75 Ann Street Bracebridge ON P1L 2E4 705 645 4404 ext 3246 14 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 Katherine Craine Executive Director 4 100 Frank Miller Drive Huntsville ON P1H 1H7 705 789 2311 ext 2492 Cotton Christina Hutt Barry Bazza Hayward and One Drum Gillian Thomas leading a drum circle and the Stan Russell Stewart Elliot Jazz Ensemble Vendors include top of the line artisans and beverages are provided by Muskoka Brewery and other fine establishments Love Fest runs from 11 a m to 8 p m and admission is by donation lovefestdorset ca Led by Richard and Marlene Robinson the Baysville Arts and Crafts Festival started out in 1987 with eight vendors gathering in a small park to sell their handmade items This year the event will celebrate its 31st season with more than 70 artisans participating They will be offering fashion accessories fibre art bath and beauty items clothing stone glass pottery wood products gourmet foods jewelry metal art accessories home decor painting drawing and mixed media works over on Saturday Aug 12 and Sunday Aug 13 The event takes place in Gristmill Park and Robertson Parkette in Baysville running 9 a m to 4 p m on Saturday and 10 a m to 4 p m on Sunday baysvilleriverfront ca The Muskoka Lakes Museum will again be holding Artifact or Fiction its annual gala fundraiser on Tuesday Aug 15 at the Port Carling Community Centre Running from 5 to 8 p m the event features a buffet dinner with scrumptious salads and delectable desserts mlmuseum com The 25th annual Dockside Festival of the Arts is coming up in August bringing artists craftspeople and family fun to the Special Events Field at the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst It runs from 10 a m to 6 p m on Friday Aug 18 and Saturday Aug 19 and

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Since 1949 Photograph Courtesy of ONtour 106 Manitoba Street Bracebridge ON With you over the generations Huntsville will be one of 23 locations across Ontario hosting the ONtour concert series as part of Canada 150 celebrations including feature artists such as Tyler Shaw from 10 a m to 4 p m on Sunday Aug 20 This juried show features more than 100 artists and craftspeople from all over Canada offering accessories clothing fine art furniture garden items gourmet food jewelry photography pottery woodworking sculpture skin and bath items textiles and toys and other children s items The full list of exhibitors can be found on the Dockside Festival of the Arts website The festival will celebrate its quartercentury with a ribbon cutting at 11 a m on the Sunday and the first 50 people through the gates will receive great prizes There will also be hot air balloon rides live music by Sean Cotton and more at the Sawdust City Brewing Co plus educational yet fun activities for kids in the Kid Zone docksidefestival com 8 Main Street West Huntsville ON Since 19 48 There is no admission to attend A list of performers has yet to be released Check the ONtour website for updates Ontario ca ONtour On Saturday Aug 19 from 9 a m to 5 p m Huntsville closes Main Street to pedestrians for the annual Summer Sidewalk Adventure It s a shopping extravaganza with bargains galore from more than 100 downtown shops and services There will also be live music dance performances by JJ s Dance Studio and the Muskoka Dance Academy bouncy castles and other fun for kids and grownups alike The closure will extend from Centre Street to Brunel Road Guaranteed for life Not to Wear Out Insured Against Loss Floats Repels Rain Crushable Packable Excellent UV Protection downtownhuntsvilleadventures ca As a part of Ontario s celebration of being part of Confederation for 150 years 23 municipalities across the province were selected to enjoy free live concerts courtesy of the ONtour concert series Featuring some 50 Ontario musical acts the series kicked off June 25 at Alderville First Nation and ends Sept 17 in Petawawa One of the lucky towns on the tour is Huntsville which will host the concert series on Wednesday Aug 16 from 6 to 9 p m at Rivermill Park Maybe it s something in the water or about the land but a large number of artists and craftspeople live and work on or near Limberlost Road just east of Huntsville off Highway 60 Years ago they decided to start their own local studio tour and the rest is history This year s Artists of the Limberlost studio Momma Bear s Ice Cream Sweets Momma Bear s Downtown Bracebridge across from the post office 705 646 9079 August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 15

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tour takes place on Saturday Aug 19 and Sunday Aug 20 and is open from 10 a m to 5 p m on both days The tour includes seven studios all of which host at least one guest artist featuring the work of 20 artists and artisans The Chapel Gallery in Bracebridge will highlight the work of Bracebridge wildlife photographer Colin The work of Muskoka based wildlife photographer Colin Erricson will be featured at the Chapel Gallery Erricson kicking off with a public reception on Saturday Aug 19 and moments in time enabling viewers to see crunch of snow as a moose lumbers through running until Friday Sept 8 the intricate patterns within an ancient an icy forest I feel privileged to share their I strive to tell visual stories using the granite boulder where a heron ruffles his home and a sincere obligation to respect the colours and textures within the landscape feathers to dry feel the texture of pine environment in which they live he says Erricson explains This sensibility captures needles under the feet of a fox or hear the muskokaartsandcrafts com Steel Dock Construction Structural Steel Welding Steel Fabrication Project Management Professional Barge Service 16 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 Photograph Courtesy of Colin Erricson artistsofthelimberlost ca

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Polished paint and gleaming mahogany will be the focal point in Baysville on Sunday Aug 20 during the Lake of Bays Antique and Classic Boat Car Show From noon to 4 p m classic car and antique boat enthusiasts will enjoy a feast for the eyes as these beauties line up on display along the riverfront docks and streets of Baysville There will also be live music and barbecued goodies available Once again the event will welcome the SS Bigwin which transported the cottagers of Lake of Bays in the early 20th century before it was later left to decay Carefully restored through a community effort tours of the ship now showcase her beautifully shined exterior and interior explorersedge ca The first annual Muskoka Craft Beerfest comes to the Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst on Friday Aug 25 and Saturday Aug 26 It will feature Muskoka s craft breweries as well as others from across Canada offering samples of hundreds of beers There will also be wines and cider too as well as local food and live music Admission gets you a collectible sampling cup and sampling tokens This celebration of suds runs from 4 p m to 9 p m on the Friday and noon to 8 p m on the Saturday muskokacraftbeerfest com Gravenhurst Opera House Peter s Players Gravenhurst Algonquin Theatre Huntsville Rene Caisse Theatre Bracebridge The Kee to Bala Huntsville Festival of the Arts Gull Lake Rotary Park Music on the Barge Muskoka Chautauqua August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 17

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THE ART OF PADDLING Article by Kristi Koruna Photography by Heather Douglas s you head out of the cities and into Muskoka the forests seem to sprawl endlessly skies open wide to embrace us and the lakes and rivers run wild with possibility One cannot ignore the notion to get out and explore the region to become a part of it and be inspired by its secrets and its beauty But to do so you may require some outdoor equipment One of the integral necessities is a paddle Now a paddle is the focus Above Some of early entries in Tom Thomson Paddle Art Contest Below Algonquin Park campers grab their paddle blanks to enter the contest Left Paddle grip with maple leaf carved by Don MacKenzie in Algonquin Outfitters latest contest to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of Tom Thomson s death and Canada s 150th birthday Tom Thomson was born in Claremont Ontario and grew up in Leith near Owen Sound He started his working life based in Toronto as a commercial artist working mainly in black and white sketches for print advertising He was an expert canoeist and an avid outdoorsman and picked up work during the summer August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 19

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months as a guide in Algonquin Provincial Park This allowed him the time and freedom to focus on his subjects and whatever captivated him He would often disappear for days to paint in all weather conditions Thomson found peace and solitude on the lakes and in the forests of northern Ontario Many of his greatest works were created at or near Canoe Lake on the west side of the park He was an inspiration for many other artists including the early members of the Group of Seven These Canadian art pioneers were at the time finding new methods to portray the vast beauty of the Canadian wilderness while battling a skeptical public On July 8 1917 Thomson set off canoeing and disappeared on Canoe Lake in Algonquin Park His body was recovered eight days later however his paddle is still missing Randy Mitson marketing director for Algonquin Outfitters explains the paddle art contest was launched over a year ago at the Reel Paddling Film Festival an international film tour presenting the world s best paddling Janine Marson of Huntsville extensively researched lifestyle films of the year Tom Thomson before designing her entry At the time we were hoping to get at least 100 paddles back to include in the auction to raise money for two unique charities says Mitson Currently there are over 700 paddles out now being transformed into works of art There are two types of paddles an unfinished paddle blank or a rough paddle blank that is thicker and better for carving he says Anyone can join in and create your own personal paddle Let me tell you that there are indeed some bold and creative artworks Paddles are still in the process of being painted carved wood burnt and produced in various other mediums All paddles must be entered by Aug 31 The contest culminates with an online auction and live event at the Algonquin Theatre on Sept 29 It s free to attend to view some of the exceptional and outstanding conceptions There will also be some fabulous prizes from a variety of sponsors There are two artists not looking for a win Janine Marson and Don MacKenzie both of Huntsville simply entered the contest to honour Tom Thomson and to showcase their passion for the landscape and love of art Weather Master Windows 3 Season Sunrooms Aluminium Picket and Glass Topless Railing Aluminum Decking Residential and Commercial Awnings 1 705 645 7511 DAVLINS CA 20 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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Drawing is Marson s first passion but over the years she has dabbed her brush in acrylics and a crossover technique with pastels Most recently she has returned to oils Tom Thomson had a whole way of dealing with places and people says Marson He wasn t a complicated guy Other artists respected him for that they respected his truths and honesty especially when he was doing his work They may have had the training but they didn t have the eye he did Marson s paddle is beautifully unique and every detail is quite symbolic She explains that she wanted to create something special More of a totem than a paddle she says I decided that I should paint a story that honoured Tom Thomson his life and his art After extensive research Marson felt like she began to understand the legend behind the artwork I felt like I was beginning to understand what had made him tick she says He was after the truth of what he saw and painted and it was this pursuit of honesty and childlike wonder that made me want to embark on my own journey of discovery Huntsville manager of Arts Culture Heritage Teri Souter is among those contributing to the Tom Thomson Paddle Art Contest Don MacKenzie started exploring the world of art as a young child doing portraiture but was eventually captivated by carving first in soapstone and then in basswood and tupelo Born and raised in New Liskeard Ontario he grew to be a keen outdoorsman along the shores of North Temiskaming Birds colourful fall leaves and iridescent feathers became of particular interest and a focus in his artwork His choice for the 100 Canadian Artists Large Original Paintings Whimsical Sculptures Hand made wood bowls pottery jewelry 111 Medora St Hwy 118 West Port Carling Muskoka 705 765 7474 www redcanoegallery com Open seven days a week parking at rear Paul Garbett encaustic on panel 75 x 45 Painting by Paul Garbett 72 x 48

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acKenzie am M ourtesy of P on ine Mars C Photograph n esy of Ja ph Court Left The raised eagle feather represents the strength and importance of the feather says designer Don MacKenzie Right Janine Marson wanted to honour Tom Thomson his life and his art with her entry Photogra 22 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 paddle art project was to carve down the paddle around the centrepiece MacKenzie explains that the process of creating his paddle submission was a very comprehensive and lengthy one He began by drawing a full size eagle wing feather on the blade of the paddle and a sugar maple leaf on the hand grip of the paddle I chose to create the eagle feather because I felt this not only fit the blade of the paddle but represents the strength and importance of the feather MacKenzie says A paddle was the strength that moved the canoe and both the paddle and the feather are symbolic of time and place The next step being the longest to complete was to remove the wood from around the edge of the drawn feather to leave only the raised feather remaining The entire paddle was then sanded and barbs of the feather burned into the wood It was then sealed and painted Once the leaf was dry I burned bug bites and the rest of the decay he explains These elements are burned into the sugar maple leaf to make it look more authentic and as it would appear in nature The paddle then received a final sanding and was sealed with two coats of varnish He adds What better way to honour the memory of Tom Thomson s lost paddle than to recreate a paddle representing freedom and spirituality and raise money for two very important charities Proceeds from the art contest will be donated to the Town of Huntsville Fund for Future Acquisition of Public Art and Oxtongue Lake for Arts and Culture a group devoted to celebrating and highlighting the ongoing connection of art community and the beautiful environment surrounding Oxtongue Lake The Algonquin Outfitters Paddle Art contest is the perfect opportunity to reflect on our country our landscape what inspires us in our community and its natural surroundings It reminds us of our heritage our people and our history Tom Thomson would no doubt be proud

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emergence of acid rain as a Through the late 1970s and major environmental issue The 1980s monitoring and research holistic approach employed by on the impacts of acid rain on the Dorset Environmental aquatic ecosystems continued Science Centre monitors the at the Dorset Environmental entire ecosystem including Science Centre Data collected the streams draining to waterand generated during this sheds the atmosphere and the period in the centre s history lakes contributed to the development The long term monitoring of environmental regulations to program includes physical reduce sulphur dioxide emissions information about lakes across North America things like temperature how The questions we re asking clear the lakes are It includes have changed over time as new chemical information what s issues have been identified The Dorset Environmental Sciences Centre employs university students such as being studied here in the chem Many of the questions are Janna Ormond to assist with its research work lab We measure all aspects of about understanding the the nutrients explains Paterson The addressing the issue of acid rain as it emerged multiple stressors together says Paterson DESC became very well known for its study Research at the Dorset Environmental You can t really study acid rain on its own of acid rain the pH and alkalinity And then Science Centre provided the clear evidence of without also studying climate change because we look at some of the biology as well We long range atmospheric transport of strong climate change affects how water moves look at everything up to the fish The fish acids from industrial centres The discovery through the system The focus since the 90s he says are the focus of the Ministry of that acid rain was being transported to has very much been on understanding Natural Resources and Forestry remote sites in central Ontario was significant multiple stressors and how they impact lakes Taking the entire ecosystem into account and the centre was crucial in monitoring this In the 1990s research at the Dorset proved to be a well suited strategy for discovery Environmental Science Centre evolved to Elevate Yourself 705 645 4567 InclinedElevation com InclinedElevation 28 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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focus on the multiple and interBenthos Biomonitoring Network acting environmental stressors explains Chris Jones benthic that affect lakes including monitoring research scientist for shoreline development pollutants the Ontario Ministry of introductions of non indigenous Environment and Climate Change species and climate change We monitor bottom dwelling These things that we re looking aquatic invertebrates which are at in the lab they re not pollutants small animals that live in the per se like PCBs or dioxins These bottom sediments and don t have are naturally occurring environbackbones and they re used as mental variables Elements like indicators of the condition or health calcium magnesium sodium and of streams lakes and wetlands says potassium says Peter Sutey Jones senior analytical technologist for The Dorset Environmental the Ontario Ministry of Science Centre is a laboratory with Environment and Climate Change a mission to investigate the effects at the Dorset Environmental Testing done last year at the Dorset Environmental Sciences Centre of multiple stressors including Science Centre This lab deals generated 120 000 numbers that will assist in determining the health of climate change on water quality with all low level elements and aquatic ecosystems and quantity in Ontario s inland nutrients because we re on the aquatic ecosystems and sustain the Canadian Shield That s what we re known Shield lakes as decades of acid rain coupled functions and services that these systems for with logging in some watersheds have provide The work at the Dorset Research and monitoring at the Dorset depleted watershed stores of calcium with Environmental Science Centre has shown Environmental Science Centre were implications for aquatic life that the water quality and ecology of inland instrumental in the discovery that calcium I lead an Ontario wide biological lakes reflect watershed geology and concentrations are declining in Precambrian monitoring program called the Ontario vegetation but are also modified by the excelrailings ca 705 646 2508 August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 29

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Luxury on Lake Joseph 550 feet of frontage over 11 acres of ultimate privacy Stunning 5 bedroom cottage with expansive vistas Incredible offering at 5 450 000 C A L L F O R D E TA I L S PORT CARLING Direct 705 646 4693 jack muskoka com muskokacottagelistings com 30 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 many interacting stressors This is an inorganic analytical laboratory so we don t do microbiology or bacteria we don t do drinking water we don t do legal samples We re a freshwater research laboratory says Sutey While the Dorset Environmental Science Centre may be somewhat hidden to the regular passerby the long standing history of collaborative research and partnerships at the centre and the incredible volume of data are well known across the country and beyond in the scientific and political world When I left university I wanted to work on something that had a chance of making a difference says Paterson I think that the work that we do is very applied so there s a chance that the science that you generate will actually help to inform policy and make a difference in the province Projects and the subsequent research are developed by the scientists at the research facility with input and direction from policy experts and decision makers With the establishment of the Dorset Environmental Science Centre monitoring assisted in defining the issues with shoreline development and nutrient enrichment caused by development The algal blooms in Lake Erie and other lakes causing concern were addressed by research at the centre However monitoring to address shoreline development led to the discovery of acid rain in central Ontario Acid rain findings identified the need for new research on the long term effects on ecosystems Today the long term monitoring program studies the impact of calcium decline a legacy effect of acid rain in Ontario lakes We can monitor a certain number of lakes but we can t possibly monitor the hundreds of thousands of lakes in this province says Paterson regarding the development of the Lake Partner Program a volunteer based water quality monitoring program that provides nutrient and water clarity information for Ontario s inland lakes People are very interested in understanding the status of the lakes and how their lakes have changed over time If people are willing to sign up and willing to take the time and effort to go out and take samples and send us the samples then we provide the analysis and

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the shipping says Paterson And then we post the results Partnerships built through the years have helped the Dorset Environmental Science Centre expand the scope of the research and data they can analyze Partnerships allow the centre s core staff made up of scientists technicians database managers IT specialists and administrative staff to interact and collaborate with other experts Working with conservation authorities NGOs the Federation of Ontario Cottagers Associations the District of Muskoka universities and the public allows the Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to expand the expertise as well as the breadth of work it s capable of collecting and processing Last year we generated 120 000 numbers to be simplistic about it says Sutey One sample might come in from a lake and it will Lake samples collected by inland lakes technician generate one hundred numbers it depends Ron Ingram will be researched at the Dorset how it was sampled We re quite efficient Environmental Sciences Centre Over the last four decades hundreds of with the way the lab works and the choice of equipment The science that we do is very studies and more than 500 peer reviewed crucial to delivering high quality data and papers and technical reports have been large quantities at the same time published using data collected at the Dorset Environmental Science Centre with the help of hundreds of students and scientists The work and research conducted at the centre has made important contributions to understanding how lakes function and respond to environmental stressors including shoreline development acid rain metal contamination climate change and introductions of non indigenous species Job one is to answer questions about which water bodies are in good condition and which ones are in bad condition says Jones The next job is to understand exactly what mechanisms are causing these changes in community structure Once we know the mechanisms we can form a response The Dorset Environmental Science Centre provides the Ontario Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and its partners with key data and monitoring to continually assess ecosystems and factors impacting their growth and development In Ontario we have published standards for water quality but we have no published standards for biological community structure explains Jones We have studies underway now to derive these standards August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 31

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This will provide data on invertebrates The Dorset Environmental Science Centre provides early warning of emerging stressors impacting water quality and provides the data necessary to develop evidence based environ mental policies Maintaining the long term monitoring program allows the centre to track the effectiveness of environmental legislation and policy in Ontario It also assists with developing and calibrating new technologies and models that can be used to measure current conditions and forecast future conditions of inland lakes What starts as one question which is often the case with longterm monitoring develops into new Chris Jones leads a program monitoring bottom dwelling emerging questions says Paterson aquatic invertebrates that are used as indicators of the Tackling complex environmental health of waterways problems requires the diverse expertise and partnerships that have centre is a well designed source of status and developed at the Dorset Environmental trend information for monitoring and Science Centre to address the current and research on inland lakes right in the heart of emerging issues in aquatic ecosystems The cottage country According to Peter Sutey testing done in the laboratory near Dorset delivers high quality data on naturally occurring environmental variables 32 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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Above While painter Jane Gray and potter Karen Gray share a passion for art and the outdoors the mediums they have chosen are as different as their personalities ane Gray and Karen Gray are sisters artists and friends In art and personality they are different in some ways and alike in others Jane is a painter and Karen is a potter Jane identified art as her calling early in life while Karen took some time to get there But both share a passion for the outdoors whether in a canoe or skating for miles at the rare times when the lake surfaces in Algonquin Provincial Park are as smooth as glass The striking oil on Masonite paintings are based on Jane s lifetime of experiences in Algonquin Provincial Park They showcase the moonlit night skies the rocky shorelines and the seasonal reflections on the lakes Her work is represented in the Potter s Studio Gallery in Huntsville which is owned by Karen It s the first time Jane has had anyone represent her Karen s carved pottery is both functional and decorative Using a scratching technique called sgraffito her work interprets the flora and fauna of the Canadian Shield Sgraffito is a dramatic way to add colour or definition to a design Windswept pines canoe bows ravens sunflowers and poppies are favourite themes One cherished memory the sisters share is of two back to back early spring canoe trips through Algonquin complete with snow sleet cold winds wet tents and paddling with mitten covered hands We were certain that the bad weather of the first trip meant that the second trip would have better weather Jane says with a laugh Pausing for effect she exclaims Not Since their inspiration comes from the natural world it s not surprising that Karen s pottery and Jane s paintings often complement one another I remember an artist friend once saying There are no original ideas We just take cues from everything we see Karen says Well what I see is a lot of Jane she quips Really I just copy everything she does Jane looks askance at Karen s remark and in her reaction and their affectionate banter one can see how much they support and respect each other Jane s oil paintings are comprised of strong images strong colours and contrast She explains If the images seem exaggerated it is because I felt that way about the experience August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 35

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For painter Jane Gray and potter Karen Gray the outdoors has had a major influence on their lives and their art In an autobiographical to Chapel Gallery in Bracebridge she wrote I hope that viewers take away a bit of the love humour and sense of wow that I feel when I paint an image It is a positive thing to share an art experience which is based on a real life event Some moons and sunrises just need to be painted and shared Many of Karen s pieces are in a striking black and white motif To some she adds a whimsical touch of colour red is a favourite on the throat of a hummingbird or the eye of a loon Platters are her signature pieces and are often commissioned One stunning example has a serpentine ribbon of black with white dots undulating around the outer rim The centre of the platter serves up an intriguing collection of flora and fauna a wolf howls at the moon a raven perches on a branch a heron wades in a marsh and a hummingbird hovers Leaves and branches are placed to add balance and context On another colourful platter stylized dragonflies dance so energetically on the plate that you can almost hear the hum of their tiny translucent wings She creates hundreds of mugs every year which often have a touch of whimsy Both women have a clever sense of humour Karen s laughter bubbles up easily while Jane has a subtle wry wit They are intelligent strong confident and humble but if either one is too self deprecating the other immediately chimes in with a mild often humourous rebuttal The sisters were born in Cochrane Ontario five years apart their brother Stephen arrived between the two girls Their father Charles was a canoe guide and forester and their mother Dorothy was a Maritime transplant and 36 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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When it rained their mom would spread out a big sheet of brown paper inside and give the kids art supplies I m pretty sure that our parents saved more of Jane s art than they did mine Karen teases I was always being asked if I was the artist I d answer No the artist in the family is my sister Jane Jane recounts a youthful choice that shaped her future In 1973 I decided that I wanted to be a painter and to live in Algonquin park A few years later I did a four year fine arts program at Ontario College of Art and Design OCAD in Karen Gray s carved pottery is both functional and decorative a nurse Charles enjoyed relief carving and Jane sees a lot of their father s style in Karen s technique with pottery Charles also painted for a while When he gave it up Jane scooped up his abandoned paint box Their father recently passed away but at 87 their mother continues to inspire them with her mental and physical agility This past winter we were cross county skiing on a railway bed says Jane Mom stood on the back of Karen s skis arms around her waist and skied along with her Karen smiles at the memory of calling left right left right to keep their legs in unison She adds We all giggled the whole time The family moved from Cochrane to Timmins Pembroke and Lindsay but they spent every summer at their Canoe Lake cabin in Algonquin Provincial Park Karen reminisces There were sleepovers with friends on the lake and there was always a tree house to explore Jane adds with a smile I remember Mom putting old kapok life preservers on us every morning They were intended to save us from drowning but as a bonus if we fell down we d bounce back 38 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 Toronto I worked seasonal jobs in Algonquin and did a weekly commute to OCAD doing the course via independent study when I was living and painting in the park She also worked on a kibbutz in Israel and toured Europe Between graduation in 1981 and getting married in 1996 Jane had numerous solo shows and various group shows including one at the McMichael Gallery She is an adventurer whether it is sleeping under the stars in the backyard or paddling one of the great Arctic rivers She loves long lake swims and wears a wetsuit to extend the season And her passion for offtrail cross country skiing keeps her at it until the snow is down to the mud and twigs In 1997 she and her husband designed and built a home and studio just outside of Huntsville After living in their cabin in Algonquin it was the first time she d had running water TV electricity indoor plumbing and road access in 18 years They continue to use their beloved park cabin from May to November and for as many winter trips as they can In contrast Karen is an artistic late bloomer After graduating with a ceramic certificate from the Haliburton School of Art and Design in 2001 she made pottery as a hobby She sold it at local craft shows while working at Swift Canoe Kayak where she had been happily employed for 20 years Her interest in pottery had been first piqued when she and some friends signed up for a few Sunday afternoon pottery classes in Kearney The rest as they say is history Art has always been in my circle but it was mostly me looking at it as others did it Karen says As evidenced by her prodigious output it s easy to see that she has been on a mission to make up for lost time Karen has been a full time potter since 2009 when she opened a gallery in her renovated 1890s home in the hamlet of Maynooth near Bancroft Karen speaks warmly about the gracious welcome and support she received from that community It was difficult to leave but in 2016 Karen moved to Huntsville and bought a light filled downtown house and renovated it to serve as her home studio and gallery The Gray sisters feel blessed to be doing something they love but they aren t resting on their laurels Jane explains In the past 40 years my work has gone from being Group of Seven influenced to photo realism to dream like landscapes and now back to landscapes which I feel are here to stay for awhile Karen s work has changed too She began by making pottery that was decorated using the dip glazing process with one or two colours overlapping In 2012 she had a leg cast on for three months which kept her sitting for long periods She used that time to explore sgraffito which she now uses almost exclusively They both claim modest future goals which include staying healthy and happy and continuing to muddle through with grace as Jane puts it In having a purpose and by following it with passion curiosity and good humour the Gray sisters are doing far better than just muddling

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L E A R N I N G hitewater wisdom on Muskoka s rivers Article by Carmen Kuntz Photography by Andy Zeltkalns M uskoka is known for water Peppered with lakes and rivers this freshwater playground is a dream for paddlers But when Muskoka s bigger lakes get busy with motorboats those with a mind to put paddle to water turn to its quiet rivers the highways used by First Nations people and explorers While the canoe was the traditional vessel for the area the manoeuvrability and speed acquired with two blades has turned the kayak into a cottage country essential Depending on the season and topography you may encounter fast moving water along the winding path of many Muskoka rivers Having the skill to navigate whitewater is an invaluable asset one that the first explorers of this region learned to master Today being confident in whitewater can open the potential for greater exploration freedom and fun from the seat of a kayak Whitewater kayaking is often associated with adrenaline speed and big rapids a preconception that intimidates some Like any sport learning to paddle whitewater is a progression one that when introduced properly can lead to a lifetime of whitewater love and enjoyment It s a facet of paddling the whole family can enjoy not just the action hungry adventurer And with many swifts rapids and currents along Muskoka s river you never know what whitewater playground awaits around the next river bend There is a small bridge just a couple hundred metres from the small downtown strip of Port Sydney on South Mary Lake Road Underneath that bridge unbeknownst to most who cross it there is a small rapid The waters off Port Sydney s Indian Landing Park provide a little portage slalom gates deep grass nets for kayak polo and a lovely stretch of flatwater for beginning kayakers 42 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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Photograph Josiane Masseau courtesy of Muskoka Kayak School While there may still be snow on the ground and the water cold spring is the ultimate season for Muskoka s whitewater diehards with locations across the region becoming whitewater hot spots that serves as a classroom for Muskoka s first kayak specific school Most summer days and evenings a handful of bright kayaks of all sizes can be seen floating under the bridge with Andy Parry in one of them As the owner and lead instructor of Muskoka Kayak School his mantra is simple Just go paddling It s fun and there is nothing else to it Parry who opened the school just over a year ago travels Muskoka with his cartoonadorned trailer filled to the brim with whitewater kayaks paddles and PFDs His mobile school makes kayaking accessible to Muskokans and introduces people to whitewater kayaking from rivers docks and pools but mostly from the warm flowing water of Port Sydney s Indian Landing Park It s the perfect spot for teaching Parry says of the park located downstream of Mary Lake It s got so much variety moving water and an island to paddle around It s got places to explore deep grass a little portage slalom gates nets for kayak polo and a lovely stretch of flatwater From private one on one lessons to parties mini races and events creativity is abundant and fun is the mission Parry was born in Great Britain where he learned to kayak as child He brought his love of paddling whitewater to Canada when he moved here to start a family with his wife and Muskokan Stephanie Trained as a physical education teacher with a degree in sports coaching Parry s knack for instruction comes from his professional background but also from his role as a dad of two young paddlers When it comes to paddling whitewater laughter and goofing around are all part of the lesson When Parry is in his kayak he s a big kid His ear to ear smile and enthusiasm for paddling are contagious Parry s energy creates an atmosphere where skills acquisition and learning comes about organically From elementary school kids to seniors when you are on the water with Parry you don t realize you are in a lesson Learning new skills is disguised as exploration and games Although his approach for teaching adults and children is technically different the goals are the same I think it s all about fun and trying to instill a love for kayaking Parry says A good first experience is key but not something Parry worries about With children it s all about getting them enthused getting them on the water and just getting them hooked so that they love being out in a kayak With adults it s all about learning and developing skills August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 43

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whitewater he says And then there is the roll another aspect of whitewater kayaking that can intimidate Parry doesn t focus on the roll right away He teaches students to roll when they ask That s his marker knowing when they are comfortable in a boat and ready It s also a strategy If you teach them to roll that s all they will end up doing If you teach them to stay upright that s what they ll do And that s what we want Learning braces and support strokes creates more confident paddlers Parry s love of whitewater is contagious His relaxed attitude and focus on fun creates a sport where charging hard and running big whitewater isn t emphasized He s making whitewater kayaking in Muskoka a welcoming inclusive and fun activity for all levels We have to start realizing that it s not all about big water and big rapids he says There is nothing on YouTube about a seven year old just having fun paddling about on a tiny bit of whitewater For children especially they will have mega amounts of fun on the tiniest amount of whitewater Winters in Muskoka make paddling outdoors near impossible but getting in a whitewater kayak is easy Parry is working on making kayaking an allseason sport in Muskoka hosting weekly lessons and clinics at the Bracebridge Sportsplex and weekly kayak polo sessions at the Huntsville pool Kayak polo is like water polo except participants play from their kayaks Polo By hosting weekly lessons and clinics at the Bracebridge Sportsplex Andy Parry of Muskoka Kayak School is working is a way to learn to roll in a on making kayaking an all season sport in Muskoka Photographs Courtesy of Muskoka Kayak School Parry focuses on getting people comfortable Even the smallest amount of current can throw a paddler off balance or off line But at Indian Landing the shallow banks and warm slow moving water create an inviting atmosphere Parry feels there is no need to drop people into big rapids It s about taking the intimidation out of being in moving water about making whitewater kayaking accessible to everyone and anyone who wants to get out on the water he says For some the idea of being inside the cockpit of a kayak with a spray skirt a neoprene cover designed to keep water out of your boat is enough to prevent even adept flatwater paddlers from getting near a whitewater kayak That s why Parry often leaves spray skirts on shore Spray skirts Don t bother They don t need it he says He gives students the option but 44 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 feels that skirts can contribute to fear His lessons are designed to get kids and adults comfortable being around boats and moving water We play in boats in them around them It all builds confidence and that builds confidence in

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The lessons offered by Andy Parry of Muskoka Kayak School are designed to get children and adults comfortable being around boats and moving water warm and safe environment If students know they can nail their roll after flipping suddenly in a polo game that translates into more confidence rolling in whitewater With polo for both open involvement and a women only program Parry is introducing this sport to Muskoka Spring is the ultimate season for Muskoka s whitewater diehards with locations across the region that become mini whitewater hot spots At high water levels Bass Rock located just outside downtown Bracebridge creates a small play wave Parry s truck can often be seen parked along the side of the road his smile visible from shore as he surfs his kayak on the cold water But spring paddling is not for beginners and proper gear safety knowledge and paddling skills are paramount For Parry and his Muskoka Kayak School it s not about the size of the whitewater or the difficulty It s about being in a kayak on the water It s about creating confidence and a new skill set that opens the floodgates for exploration in Muskoka and the chance to further develop paddling skills in the dynamic and exciting element of whitewater It s about unlocking Muskoka s rivers through whitewater paddling and welcoming more people into this two bladed sport August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 45

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I f you ve noticed you don t see as many loons in Muskoka as you once did you re not mistaken The loon population in Muskoka and elsewhere across the country is declining The haunting call of the loon echoing across Muskoka s lakes is being replaced by the honking chatter of the Canada goose A 2012 report from the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey which was launched in Ontario in 1981 by Bird Studies Canada to monitor loon populations indicated poor reproductive success with loons particularly in eastern Canada Leftover acid deposition from acid rain is still affecting lakes especially smaller bodies of water By comparison the Canada goose population in Muskoka is flourishing Their numbers and range have increased dramatically over the past 10 years The proliferation of suitable habitat in the form of lawns and golf courses with easy access to water has all contributed to the explosion of Canada geese While both species are found on the region s many lakes and rivers their dissimilar diets loons feed mainly on small fish species while geese graze on grass see them use these habitats differently except when it comes to nesting sites Loons and geese both favour nesting sites along the shoreline adjacent to the water Their preference for similar nesting sites is something of a problem Anecdotal information suggests loons may be affected by geese which are competing for favoured nesting sites The Loon Project in Wisconsin a scientific study of the iconic bird reports on their blog Geese and loons both prefer nesting sites safe from mammalian egg predators like raccoons and foxes Such sites are often on islands and are limited in number If a small island offers the only available safe nesting on a lake goose and loon pairs are both likely to gravitate to it The problem is not merely that loons must now compete with geese for nesting sites geese actually get first dibs While both loons and geese incubate their clutches for about four weeks geese initiate their clutches two weeks or so in advance of loons The discrepancy in when each species starts to nest is notable Loons arrive in Muskoka immediately after 47 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 47

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and increased as acidity the ice is off the lakes They decreased These patterns were can t be here before there is likely linked to acid or open water because they can temperature related exposure to only land and take off on water mercury and or acid induced Not being restricted in that reductions in food supply way Canada geese arrive before Geese suffer no such the ice is out Depending on problems They don t eat fish the weather they can but are grazers of grass so sometimes be seen on their find the increasing urbannests when there is still snow ization of the region with its covering the ground Their manicured lawns enticing eggs are already hatched when They also produce more the loons are just beginning to young per year averaging brood their egg clutches from two to eight while The loon s physiology also Loons feed mainly on small fish species With some species of fish on the decline loons struggle to fledge two affects its movements on land this poses another threat to loons young They are built for diving with Another possible problem for loons may their feet placed well back on their body to nesting locations adds one more pressure on facilitate their aquatic prowess As a result top of other pressures loons are facing such be direct competition for food with cormorants they move awkwardly on land being able to as the lack of fish abundance Large black aquatic birds that also dive for The same Canadian Lakes Loon Survey only move a few feet out of the water and along the shoreline It s similar to a penguin report from 2012 which summarizes 32 small fish cormorants traditionally nest and but even clumsier Geese have no such years of citizen science data gathered from live along the shorelines of the Great Lakes hundreds of locations across the country including nearby Georgian Bay But their limitations These factors put loons at a distinct including many from Muskoka explains numbers are increasing inland and they are disadvantage when competing for nesting these challenges The summary reveals now a common sight on many of the larger sites while giving geese the edge for the patterns in the health of Canadian lakes lakes in Muskoka Local naturalist George Bryant who prime sites That said loons are extremely with respect to mercury and acid precipitation justified by the well established travelled widely with a nature tour company aggressive and territorial Wildlife photographer Eleanor Kee link between the pollutants and common for many years and still spends a good deal of Wellman has been observing loons on her lake loon reproductive success Measured as the his retirement birding believes cormorants near Bala for many years contributing data annual number of young produced per pair compete for food I think the biggest indication of the each year to the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey reproductive success was higher in the west A few years there were no loons nesting than in the east decreased over time was Muskoka loon decline was last year s 100on my little lake and Canada geese began higher on larger lakes than on smaller lakes mile cruise in which l saw only one loon but hundreds of cormorants coming in and nesting she from the Segwun deck he says noting that she says of the 12 hour cruise contacted Bird Studies In previous years we Canada and was told the would always see a few reason the geese were there loons on just a one hour was because there were no cruise loons If the loons were The latest provincial Atlas nesting they wouldn t of Breeding Birds 2001allow the geese to nest I 2005 showed an wondered what would astronomical increase in the happen after the male loon double crested cormorant didn t return three summers the species found in Ontario ago The first summer the in the southern and central female actively defended part of the province the lake but was no match including Muskoka Since for the geese on her own then the species has Despite the loon s ability to defend its territory the Loons require nesting sites near the water s edge Often Canada geese will claim these continued to increase in numbers and range competition for prime sites as their nesting season is slightly ahead of that of loons August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 49

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Can anything be done In the states The Canadian Lakes Loon case of cormorants culls have Survey puts the onus on people to taken place throughout the Great help with these problems Lakes to try to reduce their Ultimately local human disnumbers although populations turbance can be minimized when are still increasing people are sensitive to needs of With Canada geese it has been loons As more people move into found they can be discouraged by loon country promoting looncreating more naturalized shorefriendly activities is increasingly lines with a buffer strip of important vegetation meant to prevent them Well known local naturalist Al from coming ashore to graze Other Sinclair points out that Canada deterrents include such things as geese and cormorants are relatively wire barriers along the shoreline Nest platforms such as the one above can be built to assist loons in recent arrivals to Muskoka finding suitable sites to lay their eggs and coyote cutouts placed near the compared to loons He cites other shore include disturbance of nesting sites due to changes such as the introduction of the wild The Canadian Lakes Loon Survey raises boats canoes and kayaks personal watercraft turkey introduction and the comeback of awareness of the common loon s vulnerability and water level changes entanglement in merlins and the Coopers hawk especially at nesting times It works to discarded debris such as fishing lines and Things are always changing in nature educate the public about the threats facing garbage nest predation due to attracting and often helped by the most destructive species loons builds nest platforms addresses local support of predators like raccoons skunks in history he says referring to people concerns and tracks loon chick survival and gulls and displacement due to habitat loss As we alter the Muskoka environment and during their first critical summer Reproductive success data from the unwittingly encourage one species over another Human disturbance and development Canadian Lakes Loon Survey clearly show we may lose a part of the wildness we once are ongoing threats to loons it states that the number of chicks that each pair associated with the region We need to value Activities that are detrimental to loons produces each year is declining over time it our loons while we still have them Sales Representatives 50 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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SALES LAUNCH Saturday August 19th 10am 5pm The Waterfront at Grandview offers the quiet seclusion of an established lakeside community only minutes away from dining leisure and entertainment Every residence at The Waterfront at Grandview has been architecturally designed radiating natural light and offering uninterrupted lake views Each of the many enticing design options ranging from 1 250 square feet to 3 000 square feet is imbued with spacious contemporary luxury Thoughtful design has created convenient living with easy elevator access to secure underground parking a well equipped gym and your private storage unit Outdoor living on your balcony equipped with a built in BBQ retractable power screening and overhead indirect lighting can become an extension of your indoor space The private beach lakeside fire pits terraced decks and docks create opportunities for you to gather with the community Visit our sales office Saturday Sunday 10am to 5pm Or call for an appointment 705 787 8417 info grandviewwaterfront com www WaterfrontAtGrandview com

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Article by Sandy Lockhart Photography by Larry Carroll About two years of research a year of testing and more than two years of product development Surftek powered surfboards are taking off Already Naicker has had much success selling his motorized boards in the United States Mexico British Virgin Islands and even Dubai He s already had some pretty high profile customers whose names most people would easily recognize Naicker moved to Muskoka two years ago to escape the city and live a bit closer to the lakes Earlier this summer he and his wife Liezel Alba had their first child son Liam and are happy to call this area home His Gravenhurst showroom is just minutes from Gull Lake and he s working to move production of the boards into Gravenhurst Our products are mostly exported We don t need a big city he says This summer he opened a rental site on Gull Lake in Gravenhurst It is also a spot for potential customers to test drive the boards We are attracting a lot of people to Gravenhurst says Naicker This powered surfboard is based on something that was around in the 1960s A mechanical and electrical engineer educated in South Africa Naicker made it more efficient with a lighter and smaller engine a four stroke so it is more environmentally friendly It also has a patented fuel injection system He s also constantly making improvements In August new lighter boards of August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 53

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Above Aliyson De Ruyck arrives for some early morning fun on Gull Lake Left A fuel injected 150cc engine is housed in a watertight compartment with bilge pump and electric start balance they take advantage of the strong and tough hydraulic hose connecting the handle gripping tightly as they pick up speed turning the handle slightly to carve and race through some rougher carbon fibre made the whole surfboard package about 130 to 140 pounds instead of the original 180 pounds And by next year he plans to integrate blue tooth for an app that does just about everything from measuring speed to gas usage and makes it easy to post Surftek stories on social media This is a family board he explains You don t need surfing experience but it has enough power to keep you happy In fact getting up is easy to learn but enough of a challenge that the rider feels they ve accomplished something when they are up and riding They are buoyant enough that you can stand on them he says It s just tough to get the balance at first If you are a first timer and have never surfed or skateboarded it might take 20 minutes he says But you improve quickly As riders get more experienced they become one with the board Instead of just holding the throttle handle and trying to 54 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 water Once riders experience the buzz of success they want to feel it again and again It really is addictive says Naicker Running it is affordable too With a sixlitre gas tank it costs under 10 to fill and that lasts for about four to five hours of lake running We ve run up to six hours says Allyson De Ruyck technical consultant at Surftek It will give you an entire day of fun adds Naicker He recommends changing the oil and spark plug every 50 hours The Surftek board can reach speeds of 55 kmh It depends on the conditions and the weight of the rider he adds The lakes of Muskoka are a great place for his boards but he s getting interest from resorts in the U S and the Caribbean too The surfboard is not his first venture into niche motorized sports He also has a motorized skateboard that has a lithium battery and can travel more than 40 kilometres without a recharge It s based on something he saw in South Korea more than a dozen years ago Mine is lighter more efficient a more advanced model he says The board has 11 inch pneumatic allterrain tires electric ABS braking and a wireless blue tooth remote to power it Sometimes I take it to Bracebridge he says I take my backpack do some shopping and come back He sold thousands of motorized skateboards all over the world but says the surfboards are a bigger product There are only three companies in the world producing motorized surfboards he explains adding he s made his to be user friendly energy efficient and a lot of fun Naicker credits the wow factor as part of the surfboard s success People see them and the first thing they say is Wow Then they ask What is it Does it have an engine Where is the engine He can t get enough time on his powered surfboard One minute he s standing by the lake and the next minute he s out there riding He hadn t been out yet today and it was calling him explains Allyson When he returns to shore Naicker says I m a water baby I love the water I just had to get out there for a couple minutes Like so many Surftek riders he s addicted

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Photograph Courtesy of K C Veitch Bracebridge Historical Resources In 1875 14 year old Thomas Osborne and his brother Arthur 12 reached Utterson by hitching a ride on a local man s buckboard wagon When walking was not a workout routine for Muskokans M uskoka s many workout facilities today include municipal running tracks and private gyms with treadmills Individuals keep fit using such facilities or walking their dogs or taking stairs instead of an elevator or pacing off indoor routes during winter around Huntsville s Olympic size arena or at Bracebridge s Sportsplex and the like There is it would appear a lot of walking one of the best tickets for healthy longevity Let s just skip the irony that many people drive to these walking venues If a new project is proposed in Muskoka today one of the first questions that is often asked by a municipal councillor is What about parking By contrast during Muskoka s earlier horsepower era parking was readily available at the local livery stable or a hitching rail or heavy stone with embedded iron ring or tree branch for tying 56 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 a team s harness lines or a horse s reins Back then however an even simpler method of travel was by shank s mare an expression imported by British settlers to mean walking on one s own legs to get from one place to another It was routine for children to trudge miles to school men or women to hike to Orillia for mail hardware items and basic foodstuffs or on to Barrie for a bag of flour if it wasn t available in Orillia Enos Broadley the first settler to take up free grant land at Walker s Point in 1869 became a long serving councillor for the United Townships of Medora and Wood He spent two thirds of his council time walking It took Enos three days he said to attend a council meeting One day to walk to Bala one day at the meeting and one day to walk home Nearly impassable roads were part of the problem The colonization road running from Gravenhurst through Walker s Point and the historic community of Barlochan to Bala was just a rough trail local historian Joyce Schell recorded It could only be used in summer on foot or horseback In winter it was passable by sleigh only when the snow was packed Getting around by shank s mare was quite simply a necessity In 1875 14 year old Thomas Osborne and his brother Arthur 12 had travelled into Muskoka to join their father who d bought a squatter s patch of unsurveyed land at Portage between Peninsula Lake and Lake of Bays By combinations of train to Barrie boat to Washago coach to Gravenhurst and boat to Bracebridge they reached Utterson by hitching a ride on a local man s buckboard wagon With no other means of conveyance available they set out to walk the remaining 11 miles to Huntsville

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Photograph Courtesy of K C Veitch Bracebridge Historical Resources Above Johnny Moon a home child orphan from England hiked from Muskoka to Toronto and back a journey that took several days each way Right Mourners walk in tribute to community leader Dr Samuel Bridgland Below It was a tradition for students to parade to the Bracebridge fairgrounds during the annual fall fair as seen in this photo from 1909 The two city lads began to hike up hill and down through dense woods over a dirt road For miles and miles we tramped along meeting only one man on his way to Utterson It was all woods on each side of us Thomas Osborne recounted in his vivid memoir Canada Pioneers now in print as Reluctant Pioneer How I Survived Five Years in the Canadian Bush Osborne s saga reads as if Tom Sawyer fetched up on the Canadian Shield for his coming of age adventures Roy MacGregor calls this true account an undiscovered Canadian classic There were no road signs With frequent springs along the wayside the two youths didn t suffer from thirst on that day late in May After sunset though it began to get gloomy They saw nothing but sky overhead and dark woods all around them Arthur was all in and crying Tom made out the shape of a homesteader s cabin Inquiring of its inhabitants how far it was to Huntsville they were directed to yon ridge told they d see the place from the top Encouraged they pressed on eventually finding 10 buildings including barns and cowsheds among them Cann s Hotel where they rendezvoused with their father After a big meal the three Osbornes slept the night in one bed Tom awoke at daylight to the sound of tinkling cowbells as the cows roamed the village to forage freely After washing up with cold water at the outdoor pump and then eating breakfast at a long table with other men seated along both sides the trio set off in early morning for another 11 mile walk to Portage A government road had been cut around through the woods almost to Pop s location Tom recounted Pop spurned the road he knew the general direction through the woods He registered many impressions during this walk through encounter with nature among them a forest fire They walked several miles over burnt ground and charred logs The stench of smoke the ashes and the smudge we kicked up almost choked us Tom soon enough grew accustomed to the trip from Portage into Huntsville and back to sell fish buy provisions or fetch mail Sometimes this included travel by the Osbornes flat bottomed boat for part of the journey but at Portage he often crossed in darkness of night where there was only a narrow footpath leading up through the brush and woods One of Tom s walks through the bush brought him abruptly to the grim reality he himself faced trying to survive in a pioneer s early Muskoka Once he came across a cabin in winter occupied by a tall man known as Long Joe whose family had only boiled August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 57

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Photograph Courtesy of K C Veitch Bracebridge Historical Resources He watched the lumbermen dressing train wouldn t leave until 5 p m wheat to eat Tom gave him the six partridges Tom decided not to wait given the he d shot and continued on the miles to his against the weather one man his age pulling own cabin without food Later a hunter found five heavy woollen socks on each foot and likelihood it would not get through the snow the same cabin Joe was dead from starvation buckskin moccasins over top of them lacing Instead he headed south on foot to Severn on the uppers outside heavy woollen pants Bridge which he reached by noon After his and the woman and baby barely alive Struggling to survive was common Tom Tom had only one pair of socks inside far two day trek of more than 50 miles from Portage he waited for the train that would recounted another sad tale of a deserted log colder leather boots carry him from Muskoka cabin a half mile from Despite how the advent of Oxtongue Lake where railway service at Washago in another man his wife 1873 Gravenhurst by 1875 and child had settled and Bracebridge and His friend Zack Cole Huntsville in 1886 eased hunting on snowtravel for people who could shoes for deer found afford it and despite the the silent cabin There train s enjoyable convenience were no signs of life speed and comfort some Forcing the door open folks still kept on walking revealed the corpse of a Johnny Moon a home man and a woman child orphan from England and child unconscious who grew to adulthood in and near death They Bracebridge hiked to and built a fire got some from Toronto a journey that hot water and took several days each way succeeded in bringing Moon like Tom Osborne the woman and child Walkers stroll along sidewalks in an undated photo of downtown Bracebridge and hundreds more back to life then You re not dressed well enough for this including one settler who carried an iron pulled them on their toboggan many miles to stove on his back from Bracebridge to his their own cabin When she recovered the weather he was told It s only six miles to Bracebridge he Windermere homestead slept in the woods woman said her husband was taken sick and when it was too dark or they were too tired to then the deep snow came She did not know replied I can make it Maybe so the man replied but I have continue where to go for help so when they had eaten In our present day when a daily walk is up everything they decided to die together known men to freeze to death on a morning often part of one s fitness regime strolling a His Muskoka adventures killing bears and like this in going less than six miles Anxious to keep moving Tom bundled as dozen blocks is a major outing for many cooking with bear grease discovering an isolated cabin with corpses living off the best he could to no avail It seemed the cold although Muskoka s roadsides are still land and becoming an exceptionally strong air as I met it came in front and out the travelled by certain resolute souls their man spread over the next five years He then back of me By the time I reached Bracebridge strength health and determination attested to by the heavy bags of groceries they carry decided to return to Philadelphia from where I was so stiff I could hardly walk He warmed up in a hotel which had a for miles The shank s mare sojourns of earlier he had originally set out There was about a foot of snow on the road red hot stove then started off again walking Muskokans of which this article gives but a when he started on his trek breaking his way to Gravenhurst more than 10 miles over a small sampling no doubt strike people through it to Port Sydney It had been mild hard icy well beaten road Stages and dependant on motor vehicles as daunting when he left Portage but that wouldn t last sleighs had beaten it down In his leather impossibilities walking down to Toronto In that bygone era when folk didn t need a By the time I reached Falkenburg a walk of boots Tom slipped with almost every step Lake Muskoka was along his right side as the treadmill to stay fit their normal doings and 25 miles it was down to zero even their survival depended on walking He was tired and it was dark but road passed through virgin pine forest At Gravenhurst now a railhead he Fitness was an incidental by product They Falkenburg s lone hotel was occupied by a gang of lumbermen Instead of continuing to decided to catch the train south When told walked because no alternative means of travel Bracebridge Tom managed to get a spot in the next one would depart at 7 00 the existed Or if some form of conveyance was the attic with lots of blankets It was a cold following morning he spent the night in a available they walked anyway because they morning when he awoke My breath had hotel He got to the station by 6 45 a m In could not afford the fare Or then as still frozen to the blankets and fine snow had darkness and with heavy snow falling the today some individuals walked just because sifted through openings in the shingles station was silent The train had already left they preferred the freedom of the open road at to avoid getting stuck in the snow The next their own pace on their own timetable covering the bed white 58 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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Whats Happened Photograph Tomasz Szumski Montgomery has been a labour of love for owners Jack and Linda Hutton In 1922 Montgomery the author of Anne of Green Gables vacationed at Bala s For decades there has been a special On Canada Day the Town of Roselawn Lodge for two weeks and ate her connection between Bracebridge and Bracebridge unveiled a surprise new lights meals in a tourist home nearby The visit Norway During the Second World War at Bracebridge Falls that turn the falling inspired Montgomery to set a novel The when Norway was occupied by Germany water different colours The installation was Blue Castle in Muskoka When Linda an created in partnership between the Town the Royal Norwegian Air Force used the Anne of Green Gables fan and Jack learned the Rotary Club of Bracebridge and Muskoka Airport for training purposes It the tourist home faced was known at that time as demolition they bought it in Little Norway A memorial 1990 and Linda began the long was established in 2002 to process of restoring the old commemorate those airmen building while Jack continued and recognize the longworking in Toronto standing relationship The museum opened on July between Norway and 24 1992 and in 2013 it Canada received Heritage Designation In 2010 that recognition from the Township of Muskoka went a step further when Lakes Now 25 years after Bracebridge executed a opening the museum s doors Friendship Agreement the Huttons have been with Gol kommune a town celebrating with special events in central Norway Leading Visit balasmuseum com for up to Canada 150 more information celebrations this year a A new installation at Bracebridge Falls will light up the cascading water nightly rotating through a variety of colours that can be customized for special delegation from Gol visited celebrations Bracebridge for a week to Bracebridge Generation Together they renew those ties shared in the cost of the 18 000 project Gol Mayor Heidi Granli and four other The Rotary Club has been providing a representatives from the Norwegian town community fireworks show on Canada Day participated in many activities during their for 10 years and the new lights will visit including a formal event at the Little Norway Memorial at the Muskoka Airport complement that effort th to honour the 75 anniversary of the The installation will continue to light up Dig out your old photo albums the Norwegian Air Force coming to Muskoka the falls nightly rotating through a variety Lake of Bays Association needs your help Their visit included a tour of Camp of colours but they can be customized for To celebrate its 90th anniversary the Olympia where Norwegian airmen spent special celebrations association is creating an online their rest and relaxation time during This project will be a great addition to retrospective gallery of photographs and is training expeditions discussions with an already iconic landmark in the heart of Trillium Lakelands District School Board our community says mayor Graydon Smith seeking images of life at Lake of Bays over the last 90 years Officials about educational curricula and th They re looking for photographs of retro Bracebridge s celebration of Canada s 150 cottage attire knee length bathing anniversary costumes flowered bathing caps and plaid Mayor Heidi Granli presented Mayor lumber jackets come to mind favourite old Smith with a sheepskin hide that boats activities from back in the day or There s a little Muskoka museum that commemorates Canada s 150th Anniversary anything that depicts life at Lake of Bays in attracts visitors from around the world and along with a piece of contemporary art the era in which the photo was taken this year it will be celebrating its 25th completed by a student in Gol and said Photos of both familiar landmarks and that the town hopes to host a delegation anniversary Bala s Museum which honours places that no longer exist are welcome too from Bracebridge in the future the work of author Lucy Maud 60 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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The gallery will offer a perspective on how things have changed and how some have remained very much the same on Lake of Bays Details on how to submit photos are available on the Lake of Bays Association website loba ca Questions can be directed to Lili Davis Burchat at executivecoord loba ca The Lake of Bays Association formed in 1927 to address water level concerns fire protection navigation and the preservation of clean water and scenic beauty In the early 1950s the association had 100 families in its membership By the 1990s that had swelled to more than 1 500 and it continues to promote a clean healthy and natural environment for cottagers and residents around Lake of Bays can watch shoreline video taken on lakes large and small across the region from the comfort of your couch Cottage owners can find their properties prospective owners can scope out a potential purchase and vacationers can get a feel for the area before visiting The maps which were created by ecottagefilms com are available at map muskoka on ca While you re there the Muskoka Atlas 1879 Story Map is worth a visit It shares early settlement history of Muskoka through a compilation of maps sketches town plans and written descriptions All have been taken from the Guide Book and Atlas of Muskoka and Parry Sound Districts written by W E Hamilton Esq with drawings by S Penson and maps by John Rogers circa 1879 The District of Muskoka has added a fun new feature to its web maps Now in addition to viewing topographic water quality and aerial photo maps online you The Muskoka Watershed Council wants Muskoka residents to love their lakes The group recently kicked off the 2017 Love Your Lake program in Muskoka at Ada Lake one of four lakes that are part of the program this year The others are Brandy Lake Stewart Lake and Wood Lake A total of 650 shoreline properties will be assessed during the seven week program If your lake isn t among them you can do a self assessment to help improve the health of your shoreline and lake The Love Your Lake program is coordinated by Watersheds Canada and the Canadian Wildlife Federation who work with regional partners in Muskoka that s the Muskoka Watershed Council and the District of Muskoka and lake organizations to deliver it locally This is the fifth year it has run in Muskoka The Love Your Lake program answers the question of how exactly one can improve the health and longevity of their shoreline says Barbara King executive director of Watersheds Canada It provides both individuals and lake organizations with the tools and information they need to improve their shorelines and ultimately make their lakes healthier If you want to do a self assessment of your waterfront property or learn more about the program visit loveyourlake ca PartnershiP OPPOrtunities Imagine the Possibilities for You Your Business Your Employees Your Community Driving Energy For Quality Hospice Palliative Care In South West Muskoka Innovators Partners People Driven There are so many ways you can contribute to the future of Hospice Muskoka Help us to sustain and grow our current programs Help us to build Andy s House a comprehensive Hospice Palliative Care Community Hub Become a member of our family it really could be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make Become a Benefactor an Event Partner or Member Volunteer Make your personal or company investment work for you A member of our team will be happy to review our Partnership Opportunities Guide with you and tailor a package that truly reflect Your values Your goals and Your desired outcomes Our annual Partnership Opportunities Campaign begins in September 2017 Let s talk Hospice Muskoka P O Box 156 15 Depot Dr Bracebridge ON P1L 1T6 705 646 1697 www hospicemuskoka com info hospicemuskoka com August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 61

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Cottage Country Cuisine Dining aboard the big boats Article by Karen Wehrstein Photography by Larry Carroll Above The stately dining room of the Wenonah II awaits the influx of diners Top Turtle Cheese Cake is the finishing touch for many patrons The RMS Segwun is a Muskoka icon a grand magnificent lovingly restored floating artifact from the age of steam Along with its sister ship the Wenonah II it plies Lakes Muskoka Rosseau and Joseph as it did a century ago when it brought cottagers to their properties except that now the passengers are there for sightseeing and sometimes dining The dining rooms on each ship are decorated in the spirit of a bygone age with wood and brass polished to a piano finish and spotless uniformed servers attentively tending to the needs of their guests Diners enjoy gazing out the windows between bites there is something very special about eating on a moving ship in the midst of a constantly changing backdrop of water rocks trees and sky This summer s menu choices are a Chicken Supreme with a smoky honey Dijon sauce a Teriyaki glazed Poached Salmon that melts in your mouth or the vegan gluten free offering of Chickpea and August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 63

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Quinoa stuffed Cabbage Rolls with a house made tomato and olive tapenade The appetizer is always a garden salad and the mains are served with creamed potatoes and seasonal vegetables Dessert is the chef s choice such as a scrumptious turtle cheesecake After dinner you might wander up to the open deck to feel the wind take in the sunset and sing along with entertainers picking the strings or tinkling the ivories Often it s the legendary and multi talented Jack Hutton veteran journalist of innumerable years who claims to know thousands of tunes On a recent cruise he performed Scott Joplin s The Entertainer on piano and also had a guest celebrating her 96th birthday snuggle in beside him on his bench to sing Vera Lynn s wartime classic We ll Meet Again On the Segwun which is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year you can wave hello to the man who shovels the coal into the furnace He might not wave back though If he stops shoveling the ship the oldest hand fired steamship in North America loses power You can peer into the engine room and watch the pistons pump and wheels spin for as long as you can stand the heat You might even talk the The salad course is prepared just prior to being delivered to dining passengers captain into letting you pull the cable that makes the Segwun s whistle blast out its famed one long two short signal The whole effect is magical But when it comes to what happens Local musician Jack Hutton is joined in a medley of Vera Lynn songs by passenger Gilberte Bell Accompanied by members of her family Bell celebrated her 96th birthday 64 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 behind the scenes to create your nautical meal it s not at all like a restaurant where cooks only have to produce a few meals at a time and servers only have to walk a short distance to a table We did 8 300 lunches and 3 200 dinners last year says Robbie Irvine who with her husband Alain co owns North Catering in Gravenhurst which provides the waterborne fare We pass the food to the ship s kitchen crew then they plate it and serve it she says So for instance each garden salad is carefully assembled onboard from prepared ingredients The menus were created specifically for the ships says catering chef Kirsten Joch They re given choices and they decide which they want to go with For instance one of the lunch choices is roast turkey with stuffing meaning each day the staff procures cooks and slices 50 kilograms of fresh turkey breast Then there s the challenge of getting the correct number of portions to the dock by the correct time Everything goes last minute Joch says We re not cooking it two hours ahead of time We know when the ship leaves and we time according to that We know exactly

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2 0 17 AT A G L AN C E Natalie MacMaster Donnell Leahy July 26 27 8 00PM 52 49 30 Two of Canada s finest fiddlers and musicians return to thrill their Huntsville audiences Nuit Blanche North July 29 8 00PM FREE Nuit Blanche North returns to Huntsville s downtown core fun for the whole family ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL AUGUST 3 5 Lighthouse August 3 8 00PM 42 39 30 An evening of Lighthouse one of Canada s premier rock and roll bands Toronto All Star Big Band August 4 8 00PM 35 32 20 An ensemble of young very skilled jazz musicians who revive the big band sound Robi Botos Jackie Richardson August 5 8 00PM 35 32 20 Innovative jazz pianist is joined by legendary Jackie Richardson Corb Lund August 9 8 00PM 38 35 20 Corb and the Hurtin Albertans have made a living straddling the link between folk country and rockabilly Tales From Muskoka August 10 12 7 00PM Muskoka Heritage Place Adults Seniors 20 Youth 20 Two plays that tell the story of Muskoka life in the early 1800 s Esmerelda Enrique Spanish Dance Co August 11 8 00PM 42 39 30 Flamenco an art form like no other speaks to the heart and touches the soul The Last Waltz August 17 8 00PM 42 39 30 Some of the country s finest musicians come together to offer a musical celebration of The Bands s seminal work Steve Patterson August 18 8 00PM 33 30 20 With numerous Best Stand Up Comedian awards to his credit The Debaters Steve Patterson does funny as well as anyone DID YOU KNOW WHEN YOU BUY TICKETS TO 3 SHOWS YOU GET 10 OFF AND TO 4 SHOWS 15 OFF huntsvillefestival on ca Box Office 705 789 4975 Colin James August 21 8 00PM 58 55 30 A musician s musician James has worked with the Who s Who in the music scene Last Night at the Proms August 26 8 00PM 55 52 30 Maestro Stratton closes out the 25th Season with the penultimate celebration

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Recipes Turkey Stuffing Courtesy of Alain Irvine Ingredients 1 loaf of white bread cubed 1 egg 3 sticks of celery thinly chopped 1 cup of butter melted Dried cranberries to taste Sage salt and pepper to taste Preparation Mix together all of the above ingredients until thoroughly combined Lay out an 18 inch long piece of aluminum foil Lay an 18 inch piece of plastic wrap over the foil Mould stuffing into pieces 15 inches long and 2 inches in diameter over the foil plastic wrap Roll the foil plastic wrap over and around the stuffing and twist the ends shut so that you have encased the stuffing Honey Dijon Cream Sauce Roast for one hour at 350 degrees Cool and cut into oneinch slices Or stuff a turkey with it and roast as per the weight of bird Chef s tip the plastic wrap actually won t melt So long as it s covered by the foil it ll be okay says Chef Joch Teriyaki Glaze for Salmon Courtesy of Kirsten Joch Courtesy of Alain Irvine Ingredients Ingredients 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp butter 3 garlic cloves minced or 1 tsp garlic paste 1 cup white wine 1 tbsp smooth Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp grainy Dijon mustard 3 tbsp honey cup heavy cream cup chicken broth Salt and pepper to taste Preparation Saut the garlic at medium heat until tender Add the white wine and continue to cook until reduced by half about five minutes Add the mustards and stir to combine Then add the heavy cream chicken broth and honey Add salt and pepper to taste Makes enough sauce for approximately four servings 66 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 cup low sodium soy sauce cup Demerara sugar 1 tsp fresh ginger minced 1 tsp honey 1 tsp sesame oil cup Mirin 1 tbsp cornstarch Preparation Combine all ingredients in a sauce pan except the cornstarch Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer Add cornstarch mixed with enough water to make a runny paste whisk in until it has the consistency of honey Remove from heat and cool Store in a container with a tight lid it will keep for 2 weeks if refrigerated Makes enough to glaze 8 10 6 oz salmon portions

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Town of Gravenhurst GRAVENHURST OPERA HOUSE Birthplace of Canadian Summer Theatre Great live theatre and concerts all Summer long Unique Getaway Packages available August 4th 6th Sawdust City Music Festival August 26th Soulsville Music of STAX Records September 2 Happy Birthday Canada Jack Hutton September 9 A World Class Tribute to Led Zepplin September 12 29 Sexy Laundry by Michele Riml Septmeber 30 Great Canadian Songbook WWW GRAVENHURSTOPERAHOUSE COM MUSIC ON THE BARGE Sunday Nights at 7 30 PM Gull Lake Rotary Park Freddy Vette The Flames July 30th Sawdust City Music Festival August 6th The Good Brothers August 13th WWW MUSICONTHEBARGE COM CINEMA UNDER THE STARS Bring a blanket lawn chair friends family to enjoy full length features Thursday nights at Gull Lake Rotary Park July 27th 7 30 PM A Dog s Purpose August 3rd 8 00 PM UP August 10th 8 00 PM Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 August 17th 8 00 PM Beauty and the Beast 2017 August 24th 8 00 PM JAWS 1975 WWW GRAVENHURST CA CINEMA August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 67

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21 Robert Dollar Dr Bracebridge ON P1L 1P9 705 645 6575 BRACEBRIDGE GENERATION LTD Water Power Generating a Cleaner Environment Interested in more information or a free tour www bracebridgegeneration com 68 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 how many portions of everything they need and we triple count We have to get it right because the ship can t turn around We have a checklist and everything is checked off as it is loaded But Joch has no complaints about the lifestyle her profession requires I love it she says It keeps me going It s fast paced can be stressful any cooking is stressful in a restaurant I don t have time to stop in the summer I don t like standing around and waiting for an order to come in I want to go go go I just love to cook The lunch cruise happens daily throughout the summer season the dinner cruise on Saturdays and Wednesdays The two ships alternate runs depending on scheduling You can buy tickets online or on the dock if a cruise isn t already booked This year by passenger request the ordering and payment system has changed you now pay for the cruise when you book and reserve the meal paying the server after you ve eaten as in a restaurant To make firm dining plans calling the office in advance is recommended as regular cruises are sometimes displaced by private functions We do birthdays anniversaries weddings 20 to 40 per year corporate staff parties or corporate retreats fundraisers cocktail parties themed events Any celebrations says Muskoka Steamships president John Miller One Saturday we had six weddings The guests always remember where that wedding took place Bookings range from private charters of Portioned salmon is glazed with a teriyaki sauce by Chef Kirsten Joch

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an entire ship to a private room for a smaller group Miller says The menu can be chosen from our vast catering menu We have all sorts of different options other than lunch or dinner We have a lot of experience in the entertainment industry over 20 years We re happy to work with anyone with ideas You can arrange a surprise floating party on either ship Before the guest of honour arrives on the dock having been convinced that he or she is merely going on a regularly scheduled cruise members of the crew usher family and friends aboard They ll have 60 or 70 guests on the bow of the ship says Miller Then the guest will walk down the dock and as they get closer they recognize one face then another then see everybody You can see the surprise on their face as they come down It s great In fact it is possible to instigate the pi ce de r sistance of surprises an event your honouree is guaranteed to remember for life by having one of the historic ships come right to your own personal dock to whisk them off onto a surprise voyage Large docks are preferred stoneway marble granite inc Les and Renata Partyka 1295 Muskoka Rd 118 West Bracebridge 705 645 3380 stoneway inc gmail com FOR BEAUTIFUL BLINDS SHUTTERS SHADES MODERN HOME CARPET ONE 350 Ecclestone Drive Bracebridge 705 645 2443 carpetonebracebridge ca TAYLOR CARPET ONE 30 Cairns Crescent Huntsville 705 789 9259 taylorcarpetonehuntsville com August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 69

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naturally but if it s too small a barge can be attached to it and the ship tied to the barge Such a celebration is requested at least once per year Miller says and he is happy to oblige even if that does mean he has to hide in bushes or impersonate a roofing contractor There always has to be one of us at the dock to help the ship tie up he explains I have gone to private cottages and posed as a chef or as a roofing contractor I had a clipboard on the roof looking like I knew what I was doing When the ship was really obviously going to land I d run down to the dock It was easier being a chef I am one but it gets awkward You can only fake it for so long before you have to start cooking something And so we come full circle back to cooking And eating Everything tastes better when eaten onboard a Muskoka icon Bon voyage and bon app tit TORQUED UP TOUGHNESS STOP IN FOR THE MICHELIN DEFENDER LTX M S ITS STRONGER ADVANCED TREAD COMPOUNDS HOLD UP TO TOUGHER CONDITIONS LONGER MICHELIN TM TM TM DEFENDER LTX M S TM TM TM Based on third party Treadwear tests using the MICHELIN Defender LTX M S tire versus MICHELIN LTX M S 2 tire using size LT265 70R17 121 118R tires Actual on road results may vary 2016 Michelin North America Canada Inc All rights reserved TM TM TM TM TM 1029 Taylor Ct Bracebridge ON P1L 0A1 705 645 8000 www rockyislandtire com Call Mike Morrow 705 765 3195 www morrow electric com Serving Muskoka Lakes since 1952 rewiring alterations heating NEVER be left in the DARK or COLD get a quality home standby generator by GENERAC Waiter James Hills delivers the main course from the galley to the dining room August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 71

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A simple screened sun porch offers a place to sit and contemplate nature and the lovely view of Lake Joseph Mason herself is a remarkable woman Close to 90 years of age she would be admirable for her strength courage and resolve if she were 60 Trim and fit on the day of the interview for this article she sports a golf style shirt and a belted above the knee denim skirt and flip flop sandals Mason moves with careful assurance over the very rough terrain of the island She has a keen mind a quick wit and a refreshing sense of humour laughing often But there is a ribbon of steel in her too and it can be seen when she talks about any threat to the environment particularly Chief s Island Situated at the southern tip of the Canadian Shield Lake Joseph is cradled by rocky cliffs and distinctive wind swept pines Millions of years ago the Canadian Shield was covered by icy glaciers which left behind the numerous lakes that now define Muskoka cottage country Lake Joseph is one of those lakes Mason s backyard is made up of a slab of natural granite sloping upwards into the woods Flowers grow everywhere in the deposits of earth that fill the many pockets dotting the granite shelf At the sunny side of the cottage neat rows of pots contain Mason s plantings of peppers eggplant and other assorted vegetables Indoors a wood burning fireplace in the living room warms one part of the house while an old cast iron wood burning stove is used for cooking and heating Dishes are washed by hand She has no hydro and although it is available on the island she doesn t want it When the hydro goes out she does just fine with her propane fridge solar lights and water pump Books abandoned bird and hornet nests old maps of Muskoka butterfly identification charts Muskoka Conservancy materials and fund raising items sit atop every surface and hang on the walls of the cottage The longtime Lake Joseph cottager has been spending her summer on the 250 acre island since childhood with time out for travel and volunteer work Her affection for the place is palpable and over the last few years she has made her devotion to its natural state concrete by gifting the Muskoka Conservancy with extensive lands and thousands of feet of shoreline When asked why she decided to donate her land to the conservancy she answers simply I did it in the interest of preservation She asks rhetorically Say I d sold it all Where would the bears go Where would the raccoons live It s obvious Mason thinks of herself less as an owner than a steward of the land She says It gives me such peace of mind to know that this island is much as it was when my great grandfather James Campbell bought it in 1874 and that now it will stay that way Long after she is gone the non profit registered land trust will continue the stewardship In 2013 the Muskoka Conservancy was born out of the amalgamation of the August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 73

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T H E M US K O KE RY GIFTWARE HOUSEWARES CONFECTIONS GAMES CLOTHING COTTAGE GOODS Located At The Muskoka Emporium Building 99 Maple St Port Carling 705 765 7731 THEMUSKOKERY COM Rotary Centre for Youth 131 Wellington St Bracebridge 705 644 2712 www clubrunner ca bracebridge Buying or Selling Muskoka Think Rosskoka For the informed professional real estate service you expect Hallmark Realty Ltd Brokerage In Muskoka Ross McLean Peter Steele Broker Broker Laura Stevens Lucy McLean Sales Representative Sales Representative 74 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 705 706 1 1 77 www rosskoka com Muskoka Heritage Foundation and Muskoka Heritage Trust While the name has changed the mission is the same To nurture conserve and protect Muskoka s natural and built heritage for future generations Mason who never married laughingly declares that while she lives alone she is never lonely There are always books to read and birds to watch Neighbours drop in and she invites others over for a glass of wine at sunset and she enjoys sharing her island home with friends from the city and beyond A nearly finished very complicated puzzle of irises sits in the light of a kitchen window on a small table It has taken her almost two years to complete She wryly adds Lately I often find myself sitting and staring into space She responds smilingly to the suggestion that contemplation has value with I d like to believe that but mostly I m just thinking about what I should be doing She is not alone on the island After her father Col Douglas H C Mason died in 1968 she and her brother sold a few lots entirely by word of mouth She knows her neighbours and feels confident they value the land as much as she does She is a practical woman and adds I can t control whether they sell it again of course but so far anyone who has bought here on Chief s Island has been delightful Not everything about being on Lake Joseph delights Mason As if on cue two loud powerful motorboats pulling waterskiers and water tubes cruise past the island at high speed They aren t close to shore and wave in a friendly fashion but it is too close for Mason Her lips tighten and she sighs I just wish there was more respect for the loons the wildlife and other people She is full of admiration for the Safe Quiet Lakes initiative that her friend Frances Carmichael launched a few years ago Frances has been tireless in this venture Mason says She believes and I hope that education and encouragement will have good results If noisy disrespectful behaviour is the result of thoughtlessness rather than malice change can occur But Mason fears that for some it s a matter of entitlement While many people with money behave well and respectfully on the lakes some seem to think that their wealth gives them the right

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to do as they like she says Pulling out her small digital camera Mason displays photos she took just recently One series shows a spotted fawn enjoying the lily plants in her unstructured gardens and another is of a large male black bear While thrilled at the sighting she admits she is always careful to make noise before setting out on any of the many trails that thread out from the cottage Bears are excellent swimmers and a few years ago I saw a mother bear in the water heading for the island with her two cubs she says She made a note to stay vigilant for a few days until they moved on She adds I don t encourage bears amending that to say that she might offer a friendly Hello but I m happy to share my space with them Mason is modest and selfdeprecating and far too well bred to be a name dropper However her conversation occasionally includes names of business and society leaders that date back to Canada s founding To the suggestion that she comes from a family of considerable means she replies that much of that went in the Great Depression Nonetheless her grandfather was one of Top Elizabeth Mason works on a complicated puzzle of irises in the light of a kitchen window Above Mason s cottage features an old cast iron wood burning stove which is used for cooking and heating Above right Dishes neatly line the shelves of the kitchen Right Books and memorabilia surround Mason in her cottage August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 75

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the founders of Havergal College In honour of her family affiliation with the school and in being a former graduate known as a Havergal Old Girl Mason has the honour of presenting the J Herbert Mason Medal for Character to a student on an annual basis She considers it very kind of them and is honoured to do so Her brothers John and Tony and their father Douglas were all Ridley College students Havergal regularly ranks as one of the best private schools in the province and indeed in the country Some very bright young girls and women have emerged from behind the college s ivy covered stone walls and Mason was one of them Mason was only six years old when she became only one of three boarding students at Havergal The rest were day students She remembers her seventh birthday when the older students presented her with a large stuffed duck for her birthday During the war she and her mother Dorothy and brothers would go to Chief s Island and she remembers roaming around freely on her own It may well have contributed to her decidedly independent nature Mason remembers 1951 as a truly terrible year Her mother became ill and died her younger brother John was killed in an accident and the Chief s Island cottage that had been her father s second home for 60 years was destroyed by fire In 1951 the Main House burned down and was never rebuilt The Old House which was the original cottage on the property was spared Following the fire father and daughter moved into a cottage on the east side of the island that was built in 1906 for the caretaker Douglas Mason missed his view of the lake and its spectacular sunsets so he renovated the Old House which he continued to use until his death in 1968 Elizabeth remained in the caretaker s cottage Above Elizabeth Mason is concerned about educating the broader public to respect others and wildlife and admires the work of the organization known as Safe Quiet Lakes Flowers and vegetables flourish on Mason s property 76 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017

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Lake Muskoka 3 795 000 This impeccably maintained newer build in Beaumaris locale of Lake Muskoka will appeal to the most discerning of buyers Main 3 000 SF cottage with spacious principal rooms all with water views 3 bedrooms 4 baths hardwood floors fireplace gourmet kitchen The boathouse boasts 3 27 ft slips low maintenance extruded aluminum docks gives you more time for boating Full one bedroom suite with private balcony for your guests to enjoy the sunsets All this is situated with views from a spectacular point of land with over 425 of shoreline two hard packed sandy swim coves deep water diving It doesn t get any better than this Pine Island 799 000 Towering pines cool breezes complete privacy and awesome south west views are the hallmarks of this choice island offering Private 345 feet of pristine shoreline eligible for a two storey boathouse Minutes by boat to a shared deeded landing Cottage has two bedrooms newer kitchen hardwood floors updated 3 pc bathroom and fireplace Lake Muskoka 1 849 000 This special offering has all the attributes that make Cottage Life a winning combination for the entire family 310 feet of delightful privacy deep and shallow waterfront areas and panoramic views Large principal rooms with 4 bedrooms in main cottage Double slip boathouse with accommodation above Sharon Hunter Aiken Broker George Aiken Sales Rep Call 705 646 3116 aiken muskoka com muskokagetaway com August 2017 UNIQUE MUSKOKA 77

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Spectacular views of Lake Joseph provide peace of mind for Elizabeth Mason At Elizabeth s urging her father wrote a book called Muskoka The First Islanders which was published in 1957 and updated in 1968 before his death It is a fascinating and important historical account of Elizabeth Mason s great uncle John Campbell who was one of the earliest visitors to Lake Joseph He and another young man named James Bain were just 20 and 18 years old respectively when they set out on a wilderness adventure Before 1860 the Muskoka Lakes Muskoka Rosseau and Joseph were practically unknown to the people of settled Ontario wrote Elizabeth s father Col Douglas H C Mason in his book Muskoka The First Islanders The domain of the First Nations it was an area which a few fur traders and white trappers penetrated and which had been crossed by several exploring parties whose 78 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017 reports were buried in government and other files and of which the general public knew nothing Mason shrugs off any focus on her and directs it to the Muskoka Conservancy which protects 36 properties throughout Muskoka That accounts for more than 2 400 acres and over 37 000 feet of sensitive shoreline It seems appropriate to use the conservancy s own words in conclusion We all have our reasons for loving Muskoka Whether it is the wild call of the loon in the evening the silent mist on the lake or a casual hike in the woods Muskoka inspires us to consider the natural world around us and to connect with the generations that came before In order to help protect the environment and traditions of Muskoka we need the support of all those who love to be here whether for the day a month the summer or the rest of your life

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Muskoka Moments Working for tomorrow s Muskoka By Gord Durnan Photograph Courtesy of Gord Durnan working with donor families to create It s challenging to share some of my the Muskoka Community Foundation most interesting Muskoka experiences which is part of a network of almost 200 so that you the readers may understand Community Foundations across Canada the magic of this intriguing district In 10 years donors in Muskoka have A few words about my heritage invested almost 1 million in family and relationship may be appropriate community endowments that have beginning with the arrival of my allowed the Muskoka Community great grandparents Charles and Emma Foundation to give more than Mickle in the 1870s They established 250 000 to help many diverse their first lumber mill the MickleMuskoka charities Dyment Mill on Gravenhurst Bay I have enjoyed helping the Ontario My mother Helen was born on July SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre 1 1915 Dominion Day at the Fairvern Nursing home Muskoka family home on Bay Street in Conservancy Habitat for Humanity Gravenhurst which has been restored as beautiful apartments It has retained Gord Durnan welcomes mayor Paisley Donaldson to historic Hospice Muskoka and Ryde Rosehurst during the unveiling of an historic plaque by Community Co operative while also its original name Rosehurst Gravenhurst Heritage Committee serving as vice chair of the board of One of my great grandfather s governors of Nipissing University I have also legacies was his development of an island on newly formed South Muskoka Hospital Foundation in Bracebridge What a privilege had the honour of supporting other volunteers Gull Lake which began its life as a picnic to grow service in their community to spend almost 20 years working with pavilion and then grew over the next 90 My hometown of Gravenhurst celebrates dedicated volunteer board members and years to be my family cottage We enjoyed community achievement with their talented hospital staff at all levels of the magical sunrises and sunsets while semi annual Spirit Awards program which I organization I also became friends with swimming water skiing and canoeing every have had the pleasure of chairing for more thousands of donors who were passionate day of the summer than 20 years In addition the Gravenhurst about ensuring we all had access to the best Island life is special and we were close to Rotary has an Education Endowment Fund health care by choosing to invest their Gull Lake Park which was only 15 minutes of more than 1 million to assist students philanthropic dollars in equipping all away by rowboat There my brother Mike who wish to succeed in post secondary hospital departments and I learned to swim and play hardball education My belief in the power and value of with the local boys Gravenhurst and Muskoka will continue to Summer friendships both on the lakes and volunteers found me joining Rotary as well evolve in the coming decades because local as serving on other charitable boards in with new friends from town have endured citizens and cottagers in every town township Muskoka I wanted to do my part to create for more than 70 years and I am blessed to and rural area care for their neighbours and the quality of life and preserve the be able to continue my friendships with so share their talents resources and time to environment that brings Muskoka so much many special Gravenhurst families work together for the common good prominence worldwide as a must see part I have lived full time in Gravenhurst for I look forward to watching all the talented 30 years with my artist wife Dale We raised of Canada and an ideal place to do business new young residents coming to Muskoka to two talented daughters Sarah and Shannon and raise a family create a sustainable environmentally friendly My retirement was going to be golf every who learned so much from their wonderful and positive business climate so we can lead other day and reading good books on the teachers Of course they also learned so the way for Canada to celebrate its 200th others That was the plan until my phone much about life by experiencing Muskoka birthday in 2067 started ringing with folks asking me to help which played a role in the successful and I hope my great great grandchildren them in their charitable endeavours rewarding lives they have gone on to lead Apparently I have difficulty saying No so enjoy that Muskoka as much as my family In 1987 I had the good fortune to be and I enjoy today s Muskoka thus began my new volunteer career appointed the first executive director of the 80 UNIQUE MUSKOKA August 2017