By Tessa (Townson) Swanton, Bruce Peninsula Press
Sunny skies attracted an enormous turnout at the Pike Bay Canada Day Celebration organized by the Pike Bay Community Association on July 1. What started as a cold and foggy morning quickly turned into ideal weather for an outdoor Canada Day bash at the Pike Bay Park.
Local band, The Ferndale Flats and Sharps, set up in front of the picturesque bay facing the event. The celebration began with the band conducting the national anthem. The band proved to be popular amongst all ages, as band member Rod Layman was seen singing “The Wheels on the Bus” and “Down by the Bay” while children danced and sang along. Band member Terry Gregory played a marching drum and led a line of cheerful children through the park.
Several tents sheltered community groups and activities. Hot dogs grilled on site were donated from By the Bay Resort. Jeff and Roberta Mielhausen, owners of Bear Tracks/Bear Cubs, were present supporting the event. Sponsor and realtor, Lianne Timbers-Sharp, arranged a fishpond game where children could catch fish and win a tasty treat. The Lion’s Head Legion sold 50/50 tickets and the Bruce Men’s Shed led a fantastic woodworking activity. The Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Association and Bruce Trail Conservancy were in attendance. Madison Barker, Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula (MNBP) Museum and Recreation Programmer, and Rowan McKellar, Museum Operations Student, led a butter jar making activity at the St. Edmunds Bruce Peninsula Museum tent. A monarch waystation, beading table, and facepainting were irresistible to the youngsters. Bubbles, balls, and toys scattered the park grass and Pike Bayers were observed grinning from ear to ear as the day unfolded.
Councillor Aman Sohrab attended the festivities on behalf of MNBP. Councillor Sohrab expressed that “Canada Day means being grateful for the wonderful country in which we live and call home. It’s a day best celebrated in the company of neighbours, friends, and all fellow Canadians. Gathering at the Pike Bay Park to celebrate is a great example of how Northern Bruce Peninsula residents, cottagers, and visitors come together as a community to have a good time while celebrating our great nation of Canada.”
Pike Bay Community Association volunteer, Elizabeth van Maanen, managed the Pike Bay sign photo station equipped with themed props offering to take photos for attendees. She said, “It is packed today and in all the years it’s the busiest that I’ve ever seen the event. The weather is perfect, and the music is awesome.”
