Fears Kash centre vote could set precedent

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June 23, 2022

Minden Hills councillors want more information before voting on a contentious rezoning application for an executive retreat centre on Lake Kashagawigamog.

Council deferred the file a second time June 9 due to uncertainty over environmental impact and a request for information about how, or if, the township could enforce noise and property use guidelines.

The application from Glencedar Inc. concerns Haliburton Post House, a multiunit complex offering group retreats and operating out of property zoned shoreline residential, which they propose be rezoned as recreation commercial.

An environmental report by Brent Parsons of Hutchinson Environmental Sciences (HES), states phosphorous – a chemical that can lead to algae growth and unsafe water conditions – will be reduced through the property’s redevelopment.

However, HES’ calculations don’t account for increased dwellings on the property.

Parsons said provincial guidance, through the Lakeshore Capacity Assessment Handbook, dictates phosphorus loading is calculated per dwelling on the property.

But since there will be five, instead of four, dwellings, Coun. Bob Carter said he thought the calculations seem to be incorrect if based on the previous number of dwellings on the property.

“It’s highlighted time and time again and it’s probably incorrect, it’s certainly misleading,” Carter said.

Minden Hills’ official plan states no application for non-residential development on at-capacity lakes will be allowed if it can’t be shown to result in a net reduction of phosphorus loading on the lake.

Parsons said the discrepancy does not indicate an attempt to be misleading.

“I try to be really clear in this report about the limitations [of the calculations] and about how other factors like the construction of a new septic system are more important,” he said.

He said a new septic, as well as increased shoreline vegetation, likely means the amount of phosphorous will be decreased.

Coun. Jean Neville questioned the potential impact on noise around the lake and how the development seems to be already operational.

“They just assumed they’d build it and this rural municipality would [allow] it,” she said.

However, in a December 2021 interview, development partner Heather Milstein said they began the rezoning process some time ago and an application has been sitting with Minden Hills for around a year. The development team also insists the property’s current uses comply with zoning allowances.

Post House planning consultants compiled responses to some concerns about the project, such as its current use while zoned shoreline residential.

“The property is currently used only for residential purposes, which include use by the owners and for short-term rentals. A home occupation also operates on the property as an accessory use, which includes prepared fine dining meal kits for pick up.” Short-term rentals are permitted in Minden Hills, and the property can only be rented by a group. All diners must lease the entire property, and the dining room is not open to the public. They also state all guests will be reminded of noise etiquette.

Residents concerned

Those assurances have not satisfied some lake residents.

Debbie Fitzsimmons said she was concerned rezoning could impact neighbours’ lives.

“I appeal to council to ensure … the intent of the business plan be maintained, the site is suitable for the use proposed and any future uses, and that site control be enforced,” she said.

Lake Kashagawigamog previously saw more than 17 lodges and commercial resorts, however the number has dwindled to a handful of cottage communities, and one operational inn.

Carter asked, “are we setting precedent here? Can my neighbour suddenly decide to open a resort on a property next to me when it’s been a residential property for the last 100 years or so?”

Township planner Darryl Tighe recommended approval since no new buildings are proposed, the development has increased its shoreline buffer, the property will be serviced by operational sewer and private water systems and the property has maintained its historic character.

Mayor Brent Devolin, while not at the June 9 council meeting, told The Highlander, “Every time we make an official plan amendment, it is precedent-setting by definition.”

He declined to comment further until staff deliver their updated report, expected June 30.

“If there’s proof [phosphorous loading] would go the wrong way, typically that’s something I would not support but those are the sorts of additional things I think will be in the subsequent report by staff.”

‘Dreams come true’ as Lesley Tashlin and Taly Williams murals unveiled in Haliburton

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Sam Gillett

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June 23, 2022

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Annie Hamel murals of Lesley Tashlin and Taly Williams — Lesley Tashlin, top and Taly Williams, bottom check out murals depicting their sporting accomplishments. Artwork by Annie Hamel.

Two more sporting legends now grace the walls of the A.J. LaRue Arena in Haliburton.

On June 18, Taly Williams, Lesley Tashlin and their families attended a community unveiling of murals depicting the siblings’ sporting accomplishments.

Students who first proposed the brother and sister join the wall of local sports stars ran through bands of paper reading “Her Track: Finish Line” alongside Tashlin and “His Field: Goal Line” with Williams before covers masking the murals fluttered to the ground. A crowd of more than 50 people looked on.

A group of grade 7/8 J. Douglas Hodgson Elementary School students were the driving force behind the Lesley Tashlin and Taly Williams murals. Helped by teacher Marina Thomazo, they wrote a letter to mayor Andrea Roberts in the spring of 2021, outlining why Williams and Tashlin deserved a spot on the wall alongside the town’s other sporting heroes.

“We wanted this town to celebrate their impressive accomplishments with us and we made it our mission,” class member Ella Gervais told the crowd. “Today, our dream comes true. But we did not do it alone. Our community and beyond carried us there.”

Williams spoke to the crowd, saying he has always been proud to be from Haliburton but he wasn’t sure if the town was proud of him.

“I felt unaccepted in many places. I felt stared at a lot. I felt that people were nervous when I came into a store. I felt watched. At school, there was good and there was bad. We were one of only a couple Black families in town,” he said. Williams thanked families in the community such as the Littles, Rydmans, Madills, and Whittakers who he said made him feel welcome.

Williams trusted his talent

He went on to describe how the kids’ efforts taught him his accomplishments and history in the area mattered to them, and might inspire other kids from poorer backgrounds or racial minorities in the area to pursue sports or similar careers.

“They need and deserve to see others like us, women and minorities who achieved these things, being celebrated by their community,” he said.

Both Williams and Tashlin said the mural project represents a new and equal approach to recognizing local talent in the world of sports.

Tashlin said she was surprised by the students’ enthusiasm for the project. “The response is overwhelming,” she said.

The siblings’ former coach, Paul Morisette, explained to the crowd how the pair’s work ethic and attitude, as well as their academic dedication, set them apart.

The murals are vibrant depictions of Tashlin and Williams’ range of achievements, with Williams shown in CFL football garb and sporting his Talynt hat, a tribute to his renowned golf swing assist invention used by multiple PGA professionals. Artist Annie Hamel also depicted Tashlin’s feats in relay and hurdle in front of an aerial view of the HHSS track where she broke records and garnered early acclaim. Hamel, from Montreal, was hired to complete the project thanks to $35,000 worth of community donations raised since July 2021.

“To have something come as an idea to actually being completed in less than a year and a half… it was really thrilling to see that happen today,” said Roberts.

Jim Blake, chair of Dysart’s cultural resources committee, said the day was “surreal.” He applauded the students’ efforts and the work of the subsequent subcommittees which brought the mural project into being.

“In terms of causing social change or anything in your community, you’ve got to do the work, you have to do the research,” he said.

Gervais said the murals will serve as inspiration to future Highlanders. “It demonstrates that greatness starts here in Haliburton,” she said. “Now let the combination of grace, strength, and brilliance mesmerize the passerby and inspire many young people to trust their own talent.”

Change is happening

County looking into consistent signage

By

Lisa Gervais

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June 23, 2022

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The County of Haliburton hopes to work with Dysart et al, Minden Hills, Highlands East, and Algonquin Highlands on unified wayfinding signs.

Director of economic development and tourism, Scott Ovell, brought the idea to a County committee of the whole meeting June 8. His report came after discussions with Dysart et al’s cultural resources committee at the end of April and a subsequent recommendation from Dysart et al council.

That committee wanted to talk to Ovell and director of tourism Tracie Bertrand about signs for not just Dysart but the County as well.

Wayfinding signage is any type of sign that gives direction. They help people easily find their way without long explanations or complicated maps.

While Dysart et al council is onboard, Ovell said he’d talk to other townships to see if they want a countywide plan, too.

He said he and Bertrand have experience in leading and implementing similar projects in other municipalities, including processes, timeframes, roles and responsibilities.

He noted Dysart’s committee and the County’s Destination Management Plan had both identified improved wayfinding signage as a benefit to the community.

“A consistent, organized and unique wayfinding program will help to provide visitors to Haliburton County with better awareness of our community assets, while still promoting a sense of discovery,” Ovell said.

He added it, “can create a recognizable cultural identity for the County that communicates an innovative, transformative and authentic experience by installing and strengthening signage that exemplifies the County of Haliburton’s identity as a destination while improving signage for attractions, facilities, parking, parks and trails and the communities within it.”

Ovell said County staff would lead the development of the plan with support from the townships – if they opt in – and a third-party firm would likely be required at some point.

He noted it’s difficult to determine the overall cost without knowing the level of support from the townships and County Council but estimated $20,000 to $30,000, not taking into account making and installing the signs. He said staff could look into grant opportunities.

Coun. Andrea Roberts said the concept had been talked about at Dysart et al for some time and she was excited it had now come to the County table.

“The time is really right for us to do something like this across the County and to have a sort of brand that we can look at for visitors coming into our County for clear signage, to know where they’re going,” she said.

Roberts added she had recently visited Bruce and Huron counties which had signs with crests and logos pointing the way to things such as fairgrounds and arenas. She thought a lot of the local work could be done in-house.

Warden Liz Danielsen said it would be good to have consistent signage in the County.

Coun. Carol Moffatt said the idea had been identified during the community exchange program and was a long time coming.

“I’m really glad to see this … there is tremendous value in it,” she said. She added that in an exchange with Prince Edward County, that county also pointed to private businesses off the beaten path. Ovell said he would be aiming for municipal assets only during phase one. He said involving businesses would require a higher level of consultation and it can be highly sensitive if one business gets a sign, while another does not.

Ovell said it was a bit premature to predict what the signs would look like. That will come at the design stage after public and council consultation.

Coun. Cec Ryall said even though Highlands East rebranded three years ago, he would be in support of a countywide program.

Coun. Brent Devolin added he supported anything being done on a countywide basis. “It’s a great idea. Let’s get this done as quickly as possible.”

Hike Haliburton add-ons

The County will add a Haliburton County Rail Trail hike to this year’s Hike Haliburton and do its best to crack down on ‘no shows.’

The changes were the result of feedback from County council’s committee of the whole April 13.

Bertrand said there is a process to collect email addresses and correspond with hike registrants. Staff recommended reminder emails. They further suggested increasing the number of people who can participate in each hike from 12 to 15 last year; now allowing for registration of up to 20 per hike in 2022 in order to compensate for approximately a 25 per cent “no show” rate. They also suggested a waiting list and an unregister button in emails.

Bertrand added staff are looking to add a hike from the Haliburton County Rail Trail head to Cemetery Road in Gelert. It will be called the “Two-Rivers Hike” with a stop at Ritchie Falls and Drag River rapids just before Gelert. The end point would be Cemetery Road. The County will fund a shuttle bus for $300.

Moffatt asked if the new hike would have hike leaders telling stories or sharing history. Ovell said Bertrand is talking with Friends of the Rail Trail about them participating and being the hike leaders to provide a more interpretive hike on the history of the area.

Hike Haliburton is Sept. 21-25 this year.

Room for compromise on Rogers tower proposal

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Mike Baker

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June 23, 2022

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How do you solve a problem like a 90-metre cell tower?

Residents in the area of Glamorgan Road and Minnicock Lake Road have expressed outrage, as highlighted in today’s front page story, over plans telecommunications giant Rogers has to construct a large cell tower in an undisturbed setting about 10 minutes south of Haliburton village.

Citing environmental concerns, most notably that the tower could destroy the habitat of nearby wildlife, I think there’s another issue bubbling in the background.

The residents don’t want a huge, lighted structure thrown up in their backyard.

And I don’t blame them.

A big part of why people move to Haliburton County, or stay after growing up here, is the picture-perfect natural setting all around them.

This is a beautiful part of the province, and we should strive to maintain everything that makes it so.

But how do we balance that with bringing some of our most rural areas into the 21st century? Cell reception and internet connectivity, particularly in places outside of our downtown hubs, is, at best, choppy.

Given the growth we’ve seen over the past five years, particularly since the onset of the pandemic, Haliburton County is no longer just a tourist, holiday destination for people escaping the city. It’s become a home for working professionals.

There is a demand for improved service. This is where Rogers, backed by the Eastern Ontario Regional Network’s cell gap project, is stepping in.

By 2025, the company plans to build between 30 and 40 new cell towers, and improve more than 20 existing ones. These things are coming, whether we like it or not. But maybe there’s an opportunity for compromise, where we can achieve improved cell service without sacrificing our natural habitats or polluting our night skies.

One of the most common concerns I hear is a belief that the Highlands, whether intentionally or not, is being set up to ‘become the next Muskoka’.

In this instance, I suggest that’s something we should embrace.

Since 2012, several companies, most notably Bell, have tried to appease the concerns of Muskoka residents worried that cell tower expansion would ruin their natural settings. So, Bell came up with the idea to disguise these towers as trees.

They’re smaller than the huge, 90-metre tower that has been proposed for Glamorgan Road, and, most importantly, they don’t require any bright, shining lights as a warning to nearby aircraft.

Rogers has gotten into the game recently too.

In 2018, the company constructed a treelike cell tower in Sudbury. In an article published by CBC, nearby residents were said to have been delighted that Rogers sought to conceal the tower and make it fit in more with its natural surroundings.

We’re wondering why the same thing can’t happen here. Dysart et al Ward 2 Coun. Larry Clarke asked as much at a recent public consultation meeting between Rogers officials and area residents, but, allegedly, was informed that wasn’t an option, as a larger structure is required to provide optimal service. But what if they installed several smaller structures instead?

Surely that would do the same job, and it would likely placate the upset locals.

Would it cost more?

Almost definitely yes. But if it maintains the environment, natural habitats and starry night skies, I suggest it would be money well spent.

Highlands residents concerned about Rogers cell tower on Glamorgan Road

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Mike Baker

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June 23, 2022

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Highlands East Cell tower concern — Minnicock Lake Road resident Liz Laidlaw (front) shows off a petition lobbying against the construction of a new 90-metre cell tower in the area. Also pictured, from left, Michael Butz, Susan Butz and Duncan Nicholson.

A group of Highlands residents said they were shocked to learn last month that a new 90-metre cell tower has been proposed for Glamorgan Road. Further, they claim approval is being rushed despite homeowners knowing nothing about it.

Liz Laidlaw was driving home one night when she spotted a notice about the project from Rogers on the side of Minnicock Lake Road. After talking to nearby residents, Laidlaw said few were aware of the plans.

Of more than two dozen nearby homes, she said only four had been served with an information package by Rogers.

“We’re concerned not only about the project, but the process too,” Laidlaw said. “If I hadn’t stopped to read that sign, we may not have learned about the project until it was too late.”

As part of the public consultation process outlined by Dysart et al, Christian Lee, a wireless site specialist with Rogers, said the company is only required to notify property owners within 500-meters of the tower location.

According to Rogers, the tower will boost cell reception for residents and provide wireless network coverage for customers in the area. It’s part of the $300 million public-private partnership announced last year by the Eastern Ontario Regional Network (EORN) to improve cellular connectivity throughout the region.

Rogers is preparing to bring between 30 and 40 new fifth-generation cell towers and improve 21 existing ones across Haliburton County.

The company expects to complete all upgrades by the end of this year, with new tower construction to wrap up by 2025. The nearest existing tower to the proposed site on Glamorgan Road is almost nine kilometres away.

Laidlaw said she’s concerned about the environmental impact. She believes the tower poses risks to wildlife and plant life, and that it will disrupt the natural landscape and beauty of the area. “There are natural wetlands, turtle nesting areas, bird migratory paths and a heronry in this area, which will all be impacted by construction,” she said.

Laidlaw claims initial talks with Rogers weren’t productive, so she launched a petition. At press time, it has 80 signatures.

Rogers spokesperson Zac Carreiro told The Highlander the proposed site will not have any impact on the watershed, wells or water quality. The company said the project meets or exceeds all standards set out by Health Canada in its ‘Safety Code 6’ – a document that outlines recommended safety limits for human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields.

“The proposed site will provide optimal wireless coverage along Hwy. 118 and Glamorgan Road, where there is currently poor wireless service, as well as provide improved connectivity to any individual needing to contact emergency services,” Carreiro said.

Laidlaw contends cell reception in the area is already adequate.

She and several other residents, including Michael and Susan Butz, attended a virtual public consultation June 14.

“The meeting was geared towards Rogers’ agenda. The bulk of the time allotted was an overview of the materials we already had. There was very little time given to address concerns and questions from the attendees,” Laidlaw claimed.

Dysart Ward 2 Coun. Larry Clarke asked Lee if a smaller tower more fitting to the surroundings could be installed, such as the pine tree lookalikes that have become popular in Muskoka. Laidlaw claimed Rogers shot the idea down.

“He said a 90-metre tower was absolutely necessary to hit all the coverage zones Rogers wants to hit,” Laidlaw said.

Dysart et al deputy mayor Pat Kennedy said he sat in on the virtual meeting and afterwards was “a little dismayed how it was dealt with.”

He said one person was cut off mid-sentence as Rogers ended the meeting.

“They could have done a better job.”

Butz, who lives on Glamorgan Road, wondered what Rogers intended to do to ensure a stream that runs through the area was unaffected by construction.

Carreiro said Rogers will install a culvert to ensure the stream can flow uninterrupted. Before construction is to begin, the tower must be approved by Dysart et al.

Director of planning Jeff Iles said a report on the application would be presented to council on June 28. Laidlaw said she intends on making her feelings known to council before any decision is made.

“The ideal outcome we are looking for is the cancellation of this proposed tower. It is clearly stated from the community [through the petition] that it is neither wanted nor needed in this area,” Laidlaw said. “We value the natural beauty of our surroundings and choose to protect all within it.”

Haliburton Highlands Sports Hall of Fame celebrates ‘very best’ of the Highlands

By

Sam Gillett

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June 23, 2022

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Bill Gliddon and Sheila Popple accept awards on behalf of their fathers, players on the 1934 Haliburton Huskies team, from Roger Dart.

The sporting heroes of Haliburton County were recognized at the first-ever Haliburton Highlands Sports Hall of Fame (HHSHF) induction ceremony June 18.

More than 200 people crowded into the A.J. LaRue Arena to celebrate people whose achievements in sports will now be on public display.

The hall of fame occupies a nook in the top level of the arena, with each inductee’s history described on a commemorative plaque.

As each name was read by HHSHF chair Roger Trull, videos celebrating each person or team’s sporting contributions rolled across a large screen.

A community member gifted each inductee a personalized glass award officially marking their status as a Highlands legend.

“We are going to celebrate athletes who have worked so hard to perform at a high level in their given sport… athletes who have dedicated themselves to being the very best they can be,” Trull told the crowd.

He went on to explain how the hall of fame also celebrates “builders (coaches and organizers) “who have given their time and expertise in order that others might succeed.”

Lastly, Trull said the event celebrated the County’s famous teams, “that have experienced incredible success.” A board of community members, previously led by Scott LaRue, has been preparing the hall of fame for nearly five years, with the induction ceremony postponed multiple times due to COVID-19.

At the long-awaited ceremony, high school students Brooke Stover and Jackson Wilson told the crowd how sports have impacted their lives. “Sports have a wonderful way of connecting people and creating a safe place,” Stover said.

Wilson said COVID-19 has made him appreciate the chance to compete even more, and that the hall of fame indicates how athletics “unite us to a common goal.”

Sheila Popple, who accepted an award on behalf of her father, a player on the 1934 Haliburton Huskies team, said the hall of fame is also a way to showcase local pride.

“This is a little town, and it has always been pretty mighty, especially with sports,” she said. After the ceremony, inductees mingled with their families and community members at a reception hosted by the HHSHF at the Haliburton Legion.

Trull said the event, “went exactly as we hoped it would. We honoured the inductees, we gave them a good experience and that was our goal.”

Brooke Stover (pictured) and Jackson Wilson, HHSS students, delivered speeches about the importance of sports.
HHSHF chairperson Roger Trull announced each inductee.
Mike Bradley, former CFL player, accepts an award honouring his induction into the hall of fame from Gary Brohman.
Roger Trull with Lenny Salvatori, recognized in the “builder” category.
Bob Beeney, the last remaining member of the legendary 1950s Minden Monarchs Squad, accepts his award from Minden Hills Mayor Brent Devolin.
Bill Gliddon and Sheila Popple accept awards on behalf of their fathers, players on the 1934 Haliburton Huskies team, from Roger Dart.
HHSHF board members Scott LaRue and Roger Trull share a moment on stage after LaRue’s father, AJ LaRue, was inducted into the hall of fame posthumously.
Anna Tomlinson accepts her award.
Each inductee received a custom award crafted by Artech Studios.

Severe thunderstorm watch in effect in Haliburton County

By

Sam Gillett

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June 16, 2022

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Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for Haliburton, Minden and much of southern Haliburton County.

The public agency issued the warning at 11:26 a.m. on June 16, with thunderstorm conditions expected to develop this afternoon and evening.

Wind gusts of 90 to 110 kilometers per hour are expected, with the possibility of large hail.

“Thunderstorms are expected to develop early this afternoon with the potential for quick intensification as they progress eastward. While a tornado or two cannot be completely ruled out, damaging winds and hail will be the primary threats,” states an Environment Canada weather update. “Large hail can damage property and cause injury. Strong wind gusts can toss loose objects, damage weak buildings, break branches off trees and overturn large vehicles. Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors!”

Much of southern Ontario is also under a thunderstorm watch. Some regions, such as Renfrew County, Prescott and Russell and Smiths Falls, are under a tornado watch. Find a full list of Ontario weather alerts here.

To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or tweet reports using #ONStorm.

Ramsay excited to lead new-look Haliburton County Huskies

By

Mike Baker

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June 16, 2022

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Haliburton County Huskies vs Trenton Golden Hawks — TRENTON, ON - DECEMBER 5: Head Coach Ryan Ramsay of the Haliburton County Huskies heads to the dressing room after the first period at the Duncan McDonald Memorial Gardens on December 5, 2021 in Ontario, Canada (Photo by Amy Deroche / OJHL Images)

It’s already been a busy summer for Haliburton County Huskies head coach and general manager Ryan Ramsay, forced into a full-scale rebuild as the organization prepares for its second OJHL season in the Highlands.

It will be a new-look roster when the Dogs take to the ice for training camp in the fall, with almost half of the team’s inaugural roster moving on.

While fans were able to prepare for the departures of captain Nathan Porter, top scorer Oliver Tarr, winger Payton Schaly and netminder Christian Cicigoi as they aged-out of junior hockey, a further seven players will not be returning.

They include Haliburton County locals Ryan Hall and Joe Boice, as well as other fan favourites Nicholas Athanasakos, Bryce Richardson, Kolby Poulin, Simon Rose and Noah Van Vliet.

“This is the nature of junior hockey… If you’re making a run, have a number of 20-year-olds on your roster, then at the end of the season you know you could be losing a lot of guys,” Ramsay said.

Last season’s Huskies defied expectations. They finished third in the league’s competitive East Division, just behind powerhouse outfits Trenton Golden Hawks and Wellington Dukes. The Huskies dispatched the Golden Hawks in the first round of playoffs, before losing to the Cobourg Cougars in the second round. They finished the year with a regular season record of 33-16-4, and one tie.

Ramsay said he’s expecting his team to be competitive. Returning forwards Christian Stevens, Patrick Saini and Lucas Stevenson will have big roles to play, while Ramsay is projecting a breakout year for defenceman Isaac Sooklal, who missed the bulk of last season through injury.

Other known returning players include Sam Solarino, Cameron Kosurko, Jack Staniland and Will Gourgouvelis. Goalie Christian Linton will also be back.

Ramsay said he’s made seven additions to the roster already, with six rookies having signed and the team trading for forward Alex Cunningham. The 19-year-old winger played 46 games in the OJHL last season, between the Pickering Panthers and Brantford 99ers. He had eight goals and 21 assists.

The team will be holding fitness testing at S.G. Nesbitt Memorial Arena July 9 at 10 a.m., before a private signing party where Ramsay will announce his captains for the upcoming season. Training camp is expected to begin in mid-August.

Billets needed

Ramsay said the team is recruiting new billet families for the upcoming season. With six households already signed up, the team needs a few more to ensure players have a place to live once they arrive in the Highlands later this summer.

“We lost five beds from last season and so far, don’t have anyone new. We’ve really been struggling on the billet front since coming here,” Ramsay said.

To be eligible, you must live within a 30-minute commute of the Minden arena, and be able to provide a bedroom and meals for a player. Driving to and from the arena is the responsibility of the player/team. Billets will be paid a monthly stipend, and will receive Huskies’ season tickets.

If interested, contact huskieshousing@ hotmail.com

Unpacking the weekend at the Agnes Jamieson

By

Sam Gillett

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June 16, 2022

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Haliburton County’s lakes are now buzzing with the sound of summer traditions. Canoes glide lazily across sun-soaked bays dotted with swimmers or those enjoying a lakeside picnic.

At his upcoming Agnes Jamieson Art Gallery exhibit, Toronto-based artist John Notten wants to delve behind cottage country nostalgia.

Unpacking the Weekend opening at the Agnes Jamieson Art Gallery June 28 features canoes, floating docks, trees and rippling water. However, it’s not just a reflection on the gentle joys of summer leisure.

“I would like to celebrate that, but I don’t think my work should be regarded in a purely nostalgic way,” said Notten, known for his contemporary installations which challenge viewers to reconsider their relationships to well-known motifs, for example. He crafted a fabric cathedral with tents, invited people to duck into a tiny wooden fortress, and floated icebergs in Nathan Phillips Square.

“I want to use these objects – a canoe, a paddle, a Muskoka chair – to consider things we don’t normally consider about this ritual of ‘going up north’.”

For Notten, how people regard these objects speaks to how Canadians understand their natural environment and history.

Notten gives the example of a canoe: developed by indigenous people and used for hundreds of years as a vital way to quickly traverse broad swathes of Turtle Island.

When European settlers arrived, they quickly adapted the canoe as a way to travel the land. “Suddenly, with that canoe, the colonial settlers had this opportunity to access parts of the landscape they never had access to,” said Notten. “Thus beginning a relentless process of resource extraction that continues up until today.”

Whether the canoe or a floating dock sitting above a submerged secret, Notten’s sculptures often need a second glance before grasping their deeper meaning.

He hopes his work encourages the viewer to consider problematic aspects of beloved objects.

“I think the concept of the work is heightened when the location of the site is relevant to the meaning of the piece,” said Notten. “That makes Minden the perfect place for it.”

Notten will deliver an artist talk during the exhibit’s premiere July 9 at 3 p.m.

Gym expansion about all-body fitness

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Submitted

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June 16, 2022

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Owen Flood helps high-performance athletes, such as the Haliburton County Huskies, stay in top condition.

Now, he’s expanding his functional fitness training to new locations and clientele.

He hosts group classes and boot camps for anyone seeking to get moving out of Spot 97 Fitness, which includes a gym space at the Halco Plaza and a soon-to-open branch on Bobcaygeon Road in Minden.

“We want to make it more inclusive to everyone,” Flood said.

The gym in Minden will be open for daily use, while the spot in Haliburton will be used for group classes.

His methodology is an extension of his A.P.E (Athletic Performance Excellence) Training business which focuses on athletic conditioning.

“I want everything still to be focused on functional fitness, whether you’re an athlete or not. [It’s about] moving weights in a way that translates to everyday life. When it comes to athletes, we bring in more sports-specific movements,” he said.

Training hockey players often means focusing on different parts of the athlete’s performance each month before they report to team training, for example.

Those attending Spot 97 classes and boot camps, many taught by local fitness instructor Emily Clarke, get more condensed general training.

“We do the same thing but we don’t break it down into strength for a month or powering for a month. We do everything all at one go. Each workout will have a piece for conditioning, and a piece for strength. They’re training for overall health” Flood said.

“If you’ve never worked out before, that’s no problem,” he added. Each movement, such as squats, can be changed in order to accommodate ability.

“We can make it easier and harder depending on what you’re looking for,” he said.

Flood said he and other gym owners in the County are well-positioned to offer the growing community new and engaging fitness options.

“Right now, there’s more interest evolving but it’s not quite there yet. In the next years, with people moving here and people seeing how living a healthy lifestyle is really important, [it will be there]” he said.