Simcoe County OKs $403M budget for 2014

Simcoe County OKs $403M budget for 2014

http://bit.ly/18nNbag Barrie Examiner

Aprox 2% on the county portion of our cottage tax bills

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It could be much worse

Stop the Drop update

Stop the Drop
With your help we accomplished something extraordinary. You and 20,480 other lake users “showed up” because you understood how important it is to have your voice heard. 

Now that Labour Day is past, what’s next? 

Because of Stop the Drop’s high profile in the press, and because we’ve grown so quickly, politicians and other leaders want to know who we all are. And we want to tell them.
In October and November, we’ll present to 18 municipalities, 5 MPPs and 5 MPs all around the Bay. We’ll communicate individually with MPs and MPPs in ridings away from the Bay where our members live/vote (Oakville, London, Newmarket, Ottawa, Toronto, etc.). And we’ll meet with groups that also represent our members – campers, anglers & hunters, farmers, recreational boaters, and others.
All to make sure your voice – our collective voice - is heard. We’ll report back to you about progress next month so you’re in the loop.
Building a Common Understanding **Your Action Opportunity**

With the Stop the Drop community growing so quickly, developing a common foundation for all members is critical. So you and every other member is on the same page. That’s why we produced articles called Water Levels 101, 102 and 103.
http://bit.ly/1bPtuZk Stop The Drop

FOCA Elert September 2013

FOCA Elert September 2013
Join FOCA on Saturday, November 2nd, 2013 from 3:30-6pm for the FOCA Fall Meeting featuring special guest speaker Bob Sandford, at the Toronto International Centre. 

NOTE: Your $40 registration to the FOCA Fall Meeting includes 1 free entry ticket for Saturday, Nov. 2nd to the Fall Cottage Life Show, happening next door in Hall #5 of the Toronto International Centre. 

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Blue-Green Algae
FOCA, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment (MOE) and the Central Algoma Freshwater Coalition are working together to better understand the factors that cause blue-green algal blooms. Lake Stewards in the Algoma region of Northern Ontario have been collecting algae samples and water quality information this year. This data will be used by the MOE to begin to identify the conditions that trigger excessive algal growth and why blooms occur in some lakes but not others. 

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Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety for Fall 

With colder weather upon us, remember that carbon monoxide (CO) safety is a priority. "If your cottage has any potential source of CO - wood or gas fireplace or woodstove, an oil or gas or propane heating system or appliance - your only protection is a CSA-approved CO alarm," notes Carol Heller, a fire safety expert with Kidde Canada. 
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And much more 

http://bit.ly/1biftUF FOCA

Special FOCA Event - Featuring Freshwater Expert Bob Sandford

Special FOCA Event - Featuring Freshwater Expert Bob Sandford

http://bit.ly/17UbDvS

The Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations is extremely pleased to announce our featured speaking event for fall 2013, on the topic of climate change and the impacts on our water cycle – with very special guest Bob Sandford.

Bob is an internationally recognized expert on freshwater issues, and the impacts of changing climates on our freshwater resources globally, and across Canada. Bob’s fifth book released in 2012 is entitled Cold Matters - The State and Fate of Canada's Freshwater. He was recently honoured by Venture Magazine as one of Alberta's 50 most influential people of 2013.

Ontario’s waterfront communities are a group that has first-hand experience with the changes that are happening on the landscape, to the water cycle, and to the natural ebb and flow of nature. As rural landowners but also often urban dwellers, FOCA’s members and waterfront property owners across Canada are faced with the implications of a changing climate in many very practical and tangible ways.

FOCA http://www.foca.on.ca

7 cottagey words you’ll only hear in Canada

7 cottagey words you’ll only hear in Canada

Although Canadians and Americans share a common language, we have a few words here north of the border that haven’t quite trickled down south. (If you’ve ever asked where the washroom was in Washington and gotten a blank stare, you’ve experienced the phenomenon first-hand.) Here are a few terms that you’ll only hear north of the 49th.

Double-double

Two-four, beer store, and pint

Peameal/back bacon

Tuque/toque/touque

Toboggan

Hydro

Smarties, Coffee Crisp, Bloody Caesars, Kinder Surprise eggs, and ketchup and all-dressed chips

See what the mean:

http://bit.ly/15aERXG  Cottage Life

A fun read

Notice to Property Owners from MPAC via the Town of Penetanguishene

05/09/2013

MPAC has become aware that a person or persons is placing phone calls to property owners claiming to represent MPAC and asking for personal information. MPAC has reported these incidents to the Ontario Provincial Police.

MPAC does not make calls to collect personal information. If you receive a phone call from anyone claiming to represent MPAC and requesting personal information, please do not provide it. If you have any questions or receive such calls, please call MPAC’s Customer Contact Centre at 1 877 635 6722.

http://bit.ly/1amEYnb Town of Penetanguishene

3 considerations for enjoying your cottage as you age

3 considerations for enjoying your cottage as you age

Our cottages are certainly our summer homes, and they’re often the place where we spend the most quality time. But enjoying the cottage as we age may become more difficult because of the terrain. Uneven landscapes and differing architectures present challenges for renovators and product suppliers to create solutions for safe access, but there are ways to alleviate most problem areas. These generally include a combination of construction and product that will allow safe, easy access to the cottage and the lake, extending an your enjoyment of your cottage well into retirement. 

http://bit.ly/14dMXjD Cottage Life

Some good ideas and tips

Water levels reach record lows in Ontario cottage country

Water levels reach record lows in Ontario cottage country

Part of Liquid State, an occasional series on our relationship with water.

The bigger boats no longer show up at the marinas. Where people once were able to scoop pails of lake water, there is now just wild grass and pebbles. Gentle waves used to lap on cottage docks, but they have been replaced by decaying weeds that wash up on the receding shore.

http://bit.ly/18KwHoU Globe and Mail

Stop the Drop campaign designed to attract attention

Stop the Drop campaign designed to attract attention

Online community focused on issue of falling water levels

http://bit.ly/1aMpipH Midland Mirror

Safe Burning on your property, from FOCA and FireSmart

Safe Burning on your property, from FOCA and FireSmart
http://youtu.be/OXCw2fAN-rk

Some very good tips in the video. Be safe with your next camp fire.

Why water levels are so low in cottage country

Why water levels are so low in cottage country

Welcome to Lake Huron and Georgian Bay’s new low-water reality, one that’s draining dollars from cottagers and businesses, potentially sucking the life from wetlands, and pushing the International Joint Commission (IJC) to recommend that the Canadian and US governments boost the water level by as much as 25 cm. “Something should be done,” says Guest, whose grandfather bought the Severn Sound property in 1903. “If this continues, our bay will dry up.”

http://bit.ly/15DN4CY Cottage Life

Well worth the read

Art on the Bay - Exploring Artistic Inspiration Around Georgian Bay

Art on the Bay - Exploring Artistic Inspiration Around Georgian Bay

Across the country the wilderness, spectacular scenery and animals of Canada’s National Parks have served as inspiration for artists for over a century. Georgian Bay Islands National Park is rekindling the traditional link between the park and the arts with their Artist in the Park program which has successfully run for more than five years at several other national parks.

http://bit.ly/13Dr1OQ Canadian Yachting

Looks like a lot of interesting art and other things to see and do.

Hydro One Fraud Alert: Telemarketing

Hydro One
Fraud Alert: Telemarketing

Have you received telephone calls from individuals or telemarketers claiming to represent Hydro One soliciting business, selling "energy-saving" products, or asking to confirm a planned power interruption? If so, be aware that these calls are fraudulent. Hydro One does not use telemarketers to contact our customers, never uses toll-for-service telephone numbers, and never sells products over the phone. 

Read the full article 

http://bit.ly/12qsj8G Hydro One

Great Lakes “plasticization” linked to cosmetic products

Great Lakes “plasticization” linked to cosmetic products

http://bit.ly/1cUuHKz Cottage Life

"But new research has discovered a new threat that plastic poses to our water systems—one that’s showing up in increasing concentrations in our Great Lakes." 
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Not good at all. 

Restore Our Water International will be in our area to provide an update for North Simcoe communities

From this weeks Mayor’s Weekly Update
To be added to Mayor Marshall’s email distribution list please email Stacey Cooper at scooper@penetanguishene.ca

Saturday July 6th

Restore Our Water International will be in our area to provide an update for North Simcoe communities regarding what can be done about the severely low water levels in Lakes Michigan/Huron/Georgian Bay. Restore Our Water International (ROWI) has grown to more than 15,000 shoreline owners and business interests. Their keynote speaker is Roger Gauthier, Chair of ROWI. Roger is a retired Senior Hydrologist who spent 30 years with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Also presenting is Dr. Pat-Chow-Fraser from McMaster University in Hamilton and of course Mary Muter. There are two sessions for you early birds you can catch the meeting at the Tiny Rec Centre at 10 a.m. or if the afternoon is better for you can attend the 3 p.m. meeting in Port McNicoll at their Community Centre.

http://bit.ly/12mPRfy

SIMCOE MUSKOKA HEALTH UNIT POSTS BEACH ADVISORIES

Status Update

By Barrie Examiner

HEALTH UNIT POSTS BEACH ADVISORIES

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has posted several beach advisory notices.

Notices have been posted for the following: Leonard's Beach in Innisfil; Peter Petersen Park Beach in Midland; and Con. 12 west beach in Tiny Township.

An advisory is a warning to swimmers, but it is not a beach closure. 

During an advisory, a beach is posted with warning signs when the water contains levels of bacteria that indicate there may be an increased risk of developing minor skin, eye, ear, nose and throat infections and stomach disorders. 

People may still choose to swim during an advisory but it may be best to avoid swallowing the water, and ducking or dunking their heads underwater.

Testing is done at least weekly by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, and the results are listed on their website. 

To access the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit beach advisories and notices visit www.smdhu.org 

FOCA's June 2013 Elert is out

FOCA's June 2013 Elert is out

http://bit.ly/18gSW89 FOCA

Welcome to Summer!

Here's the outlook from The Old Farmer's Almanac: "Summer will be cooler and rainier than normal, with the hottest temperatures in early to mid-July, late July, and mid-August."summer weather 

Beware of Flying Fire  

FOCA continues to advocate for safe burning practices. We warn you about the dangers of "flying lanterns," and  Cottage Life blog applaud our colleagues at the Lake of the Woods District Property Owners Association, who have garnered media interest in the subject.

Great Lakes Water Levels

International Joint Commission The International Joint Commission has announced public hearings on its new water management proposal for Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River water levels. 

Warning: Lyme Disease in Ontario  

A FOCA member wrote to us recently, warning about the dangers of Lyme Disease to people and pets in Ontario:

Our Golden Retriever contracted Lyme disease apparently from a tick. She is on meds and we are hoping for a complete recovery. We are not sure where she got this as we live in Markham, but visit and spend time every week at our cottage ... We were oblivious to all of this and believe everyone needs to know.

The Health Unit reminds you to "know the bug, know the bite" that can spread it.

And Much Much More

Low Water Levels on the Great Lakes

Low Water Levels on the Great Lakes

http://www.charts.gc.ca/notice-avis/2013/2013-05-02-eng.asp


Double Check Your Charts Before You Head Out on the Great Lakes this Summer

The 7 most grillable veggies

The 7 most grillable veggies

http://bit.ly/129pSv3 Cottage Life

Not sure which veggies are the easiest and most delicious for grilling? Here are seven that you can’t miss with!

===============
Getting Hungry Just Reading it 

Sun Media closes Midland operation; other papers remain unaffected

Sun Media closes Midland operation; other papers remain unaffected
The Midland Free Press, which has been a source of news for Midland and surrounding area since 1879, has closed.

"Decisions such as these are never easy and occur only after considerable review," said Rob Leuschner, Regional Publisher/Director of Advertising for The Free Press along with the Barrie Examiner, Orillia Packet & Times and Collingwood Enterprise Bulletin. "The Free Press in Midland has existed for 134 years and during that time has been an important media choice for many readers and advertisers within the community."

http://bit.ly/14o4TDx Orillia Packet and Times

I will miss the Free Press. It was a great little paper, it allowed me to keep up with what was going on around the cottage.

Tall Ships sail Ontario's Great Lakes

Tall Ships sail Ontario's Great Lakes

http://bit.ly/18XU0yJ Toronto Sun

The tall ships are a-comin’ for a summer tradition on the Great Lakes.

These majestic sailing vessels will sail to 15 Ontario ports this summer to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812.

====================

The will be in the Midland - Penetaguishene area the weekend before Labour Day Weekend. 

Need help troubleshooting your cottage water system?

Need help troubleshooting your cottage water system? 
Here's a book with all the answers: http://bit.ly/12OKY4T  Cottage Life

It looks good will have to get a copy at the next Cottage Life Show. Hope they also release it as a eBook too.

Flying lanterns a fire hazard for cottages

Flying lanterns a fire hazard for cottages

There is one thing that has lit a fire under cottagers, it’s fire raining down from the sky.

“What kind of idiot would set an uncontrolled flame floating over cottages and forests to land who knows where?” asks Terry Rees in reference to the popular airborne lanterns that are powered by an open flame in the bottom, much like a hot air balloon. Also known as Chinese, sky, and flying lanterns, they are often released, dozens at a time, at weddings and other parties.

More at 

http://bit.ly/16oz4wv Cottage Life

Thank you Penny C. and Terry R. for bringing the issues to light.

The International Joint Commission invites Public Comment on a Proposal for Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Regulation

The International Joint Commission invites Public Comment on a Proposal for Lake Ontario and St. Lawrence River Regulation 

The International Joint Commission (IJC) is inviting the public to comment on a proposal for managing the water levels and flows in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River that will continue to contribute to the economic health of communities throughout the basin while improving the long-term ecological health of Lake Ontario and the upper St. Lawrence River.

Since 1960, the IJC has managed the flow of water at the Moses-Saunders hydropower dam, located on the St Lawrence River between Cornwall, Ontario and Massena, New York. The management of water flows influences water levels on Lake Ontario and in the St Lawrence River as far downstream as Lake St. Pierre. Although water levels and flows are primarily determined by precipitation, snowpack and storms,   water flow management has provided substantial benefits to the region. These include reducing flooding and erosion on the Lake Ontario shoreline, reducing flooding downstream, and providing more favorable conditions on the lake and river for water intakes, recreational boating, commercial navigation and hydroelectric power production.

http://bit.ly/19904kB International Joint Commission

First annual Butter Tart Festival

First annual Butter Tart Festival; Best butter tart in Ontario will be declared

Mention butter tarts and many people start dreaming and salivating.

This most personal and beloved pastry is the focus of the first annual Butter Tart Festival in Midland on Saturday.

http://bit.ly/11kiCJu Midland Free Press

Enjoy a Butter Tart for me, wish I was able to go

Tips for boating with dogs

Tips for boating with dogs 

http://bit.ly/13DX3qr Cottage Life

Just like us cottagers, our dogs are “outdoor enthusiasts” (even my little pug likes to stick his nose in the mud once in a while). And just like us, it’s important to consider that not all dogs actually like to be in the water, and not all dogs may enjoy the experience of being on a boat.

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Some good tips for boating with your dog.

Sweet strawberry recipes for the cottage

Sweet strawberry recipes for the cottage

http://bit.ly/17zEfg8 Cottage Life

Fresh Strawberry Daiquiris

Strawberry Salad with Poppyseed Dressing

Strawberry Smoothies

Strawberry-Banana Chocolate Pie

Love fresh strawberries at the cottage

Is your cottage covered against fires?

Is your cottage covered against fires?

http://bit.ly/1113Drl Cottage Life

When Alice Ogden’s Manitoulin Island cottage burned down in 2005, “We knew the cottage was insured, but we didn’t know by how much.” The Ogdens bought their getaway (originally a cabin at a fishing resort) in 1985 and assumed the existing insurance policy. As a result, the $51,000 in structure and contents coverage “wasn’t enough to build a modern cottage,” she says. The replacement (including such big-ticket items as a new wood stove and composting toilet) cost more than three times what the original building was insured for.

More information 
http://bit.ly/1113Drl Cottage Life 

Fire safety tips for the cottage

Fire safety tips for the cottage
http://bit.ly/15MGQiR Cottage Life 


Outside the cottage

Store fuel, firewood, and other combustible materials at least 10 metres from the cottage.
Keep roof and rain gutters free of dried leaves and pine needles. Install a screened cap on your chimney.

Keep firefighting tools (a bucket of water or sand, shovels, and a garden hose) handy when you’re having a bonfire or burning brush.


Inside the cottage

Learn how your smoke alarms work and test them at least monthly Ontario’s Fire Code requires them on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. Regularly replace the batteries and replace the alarm itself every eight years. If you have a wood or fossil-fuel-fired appliance, or attached garage, install a carbon-monoxide alarm.

Develop a fire-escape plan. Designate family members who are responsible to help guests, people who may have trouble getting out on their own, and pets. Keep keys and cell phones in a handy place, so they can be found during a hasty exit. Once everyone is out and accounted for at a meeting place, call 911 or your local emergency number and report the fire.

And Many More

http://bit.ly/15MGQiR Cottage Life

Ask you local Fire Department for advice too

June is Parks & Recreation Month in Tiny Township

June is Parks & Recreation Month in Tiny Township

http://bit.ly/17gTzOs Tiny.on.ca

Lots to see and do.

Simcoe County Transportation Master Plan Update

Simcoe County Transportation Master Plan Update

Whether you walk, drive, bike, or take the bus, the County of Simcoe wants to hear from you.
The County of Simcoe is updating its Transportation Master Plan and is hosting four Public Information Centres to hear what residents think about transportation in Simcoe County. The purpose of the Transportation Master Plan is to provide a comprehensive and adaptable long-term transportation strategy that considers the County’s vast geography, growing population, and expanding economy.

Transportation Master Plan Update Public Information Centres
Town of Midland Public Library
June 3, 2013
5:30 – 8 p.m.

http://bit.ly/ZioS6D Tiny Township

Public Meeting on facility to handle septage from regional pump-outs of septic and holding tanks, and the biosolids in Tiny Township

Reminder

A public meeting has been scheduled by the Township of Tiny to inform and invite input into deliberations on a facility to handle septage from regional pump-outs of septic and holding tanks, and the biosolids from neighboring community waste water treatment facilities, which traditionally have been land-applied within the Township.

When: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon Saturday, June 1, 2013
Where:Township Community Centre 91 Concession 8 East, Township of Tiny

Tiny considers Phases 1 and 2 of the Class Environmental Assessment  complete, having chosen “Construct a septage treatment facility within the Township, with full treatment of solids and liquids” as the preferred solution. The Township has retained Burnside Associates to conduct the evaluation of design alternatives and site selection.

The public meeting will afford attendees “an opportunity to review and provide comments on the evaluation of design alternatives for the septage treatment facility, including an evaluation of available treatment technologies and the proposed methodology for the site selection process.” 

Public attendance at the meetings held during the first phase of the study was very limited. Only 28 people attended the meeting in July 2011, 34 in November 2011 and 28 in June 2012, with more than half of the attendees consisting of the Project Advisory Committee and staff. No public meeting was held after all the information was consolidated in the final report. This may explain why Council, against the advice of the Mayor, accepted a single-alternative recommendation rather than a more rigorous evaluation of a collaborative alternative with a neighboring treatment facility.

Mark your calendar now and plan to participate in this important decision!

Terry Breckenridge

A clean start to the Cottage season

Cottage comforts: Make a clean start on the season

A checklist for clearing out the clutter and freshening things up

Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/Cottage+comforts+Make+clean+start+season/8430259/story.html#ixzz2UFw0RjZs

Some great tips and ideas 

How Sunscreen Works

How Sunscreen Works (And Why You're Wrong About It) 

http://bit.ly/18hpz2E Gizmodo 

Very good to know as we move in to summer

The Trent-Severn Waterway may be open for business, but area boaters aren't sure how much it's going to be getting.

The Trent-Severn Waterway may be open for business, but area boaters aren't sure how much it's going to be getting.
http://bit.ly/1884UOr Barrie Examiner 


Effective this season, the waterway's 44 locks are opened two-and-a-half hours less each day.

Parks Canada, tasked with cutting $3 million from the waterway's budget, had originally proposed ending the season — which runs from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving long weekends — two weeks earlier and increasing both moorage and lockage fees, much to the outrage of recreational boaters, commercial operators and municipalities.

============
Not a good thing. Between the low water levels for Lake Huron & Georgian Bay, and what the government is  doing to Trent-Severn, the fun is going out of boating. 

This week is a yard waste week make you have your waste is out for Monday May 20th on Clearwater Beach

Bi-weekly yard waste (including brush) collection will take place in the County during the spring and fall. This change significantly increases access to yard waste collection service and provides more flexibility.

Materials must be placed at curbside Monday at 7 a.m. of collection week.

Yard waste may be placed in kraft paper yard waste bags, compostable bags, cardboard boxes or open-ended rigid containers. Plastic bags are not permitted. Brush must be contained as above or bundled securely with string, be no larger than 2 metres in length and 30 centimetres in diameter.

This week is a yard waste week make you have your waste is out for Monday May 20th for Clearwater Beach

Opening the cottage this long weekend? Read these tips from Hydro One.

Opening the cottage this long weekend? Read these tips from Hydro One.

May 14, 2013

With the countdown to cottage season quickly underway, electrical safety is an important factor cottagers must consider to ensure a safe and enjoyable season.

Before heading up to the cottage, first check the status of unplanned and planned power outages at your intended destination using our mobile outage map. Click the Outages button on the menu bar below to get started. Click the "Unplanned" or "Planned" button and look for any coloured triangles or "tools" icons on the map that indicate power outages. Click the Magnifying Glass icon and enter your address to search for outages by specific location. Tap any icon on the map to see details of the outage, including crew status, estimated time of power restoration and the cause, if known. Depending on the estimated time of restoration, you can decide whether you should postpone your departure, or bring the items you would need to open the cottage without electricity, such as a portable generator, battery-powered lights/flashlights, and/or gas-powered portable cooking appliances.

For customers heading up to the cottage for the first time this season, there can be a lot to do, especially if the cottage was closed during the winter. To help prepare, here is a handy checklist of some electrical safety tips from Hydro One to start your cottage season off safely:

Inspect the power line. If a wire is down on the ground, stay at least one bus length away and call Hydro One's power emergency line immediately at 1-800-434-1235.

Check your electricity meter for damage. Call Hydro One at 1-888-664-9376 if there is damage.

Look at interior wiring for visible signs of gnawing from animals. If wiring is damaged, turn off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse to that circuit and call an electrician to arrange for repairs.

Check electrical cords and plugs for damage. Never use cords that are worn or damaged.

Fill your water tank before switching the power on to avoid damage to your water heater element.

Keep all branch circuits in the off position until you have opened the main switch. Then, energize individual circuits one at a time.

Make sure tree branches are trimmed well away from your power line to avoid unnecessary power outages and safety hazards. Always hire a qualified contractor to prune trees near your power line. Hydro One will disconnect the power supply to your property once a year, at no charge, so that any maintenance along or near your power line can be performed safely.

Countdown to the Long Weekend! FOCA Elert May 2013

Countdown to the Long Weekend! FOCA Elert May 2013
http://bit.ly/105h99a FOCA


The Victoria Day long weekend marks the start of Safe Boating Awareness Week, May 18-24th.


Emergency Response in Ontario - FOCA seeks answers
In the aftermath of recent flooding events, FOCA has questions about community preparedness in Ontario. 


Nuclear Dump Site Proposal - Public Review Phase
FOCA is concerned about any adverse effects to human health or the environment, including Lake Huron and the Great Lakes, from the proposed long-term storage of nuclear waste north of Kincardine, Ontario, about 1 km inland from the shore of Lake Huron, and 700m below ground. 


Check 'em and Replace 'em  
Put these 2 items at the top of your long weekend checklist:
check the batteries and the expiry dates on your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
make and practice a fire escape plan with the family. Click here for tips... 
Once you've checked your alarms, you can quickly and easily enter to win online in this year's contest. Click here for the link... FOCA is proud to be a program partner in the 2013 Peace of Mind for Your Piece of Heaven campaign for fire and CO safety. 


Important Reminders 
Don't move firewood. Drain your bilges!
Invasive and harmful animals and plants can hitchhike on wood, in your bilge water, and on trailers. To protect our precious forests, lakes and rivers, make sure you are not part of the problem. Learn more about invasive species and prevention strategies here.

And Much More

Victoria Day long weekend guide for cottagers

Victoria Day long weekend guide

Whether you're headed to the cottage for work or play this long weekend, we have the expert advice to help you along the way 

http://bit.ly/10jHJON Cottage Life

Lots of great tips, tricks and recipes wether you are a new cottager or an old hand,

The SS Keewatin officially opened to the public Saturday

Return of the brass bell signifies a new life for SS Keewatin 

The ship is now open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Full tours are $20 per adult, $10 for youth aged 11 to 16, and free for children who are accompanied by an adult. 

http://bit.ly/11vaYSe Midland Free Press

A visit is on my to do list for this summer 

Action needed on water level crisis - not more study

LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Action needed on water level crisis - not more study


It would seem trivial to understand that what is required is to restore outflows to what they were before extensive dredging, and to shut down the waste water channel. The Mississippi is flooding and doesn't need any more water.


http://bit.ly/17Tt27v Midland Free Press

Economic relief sought due to low water levels; Delegation 'very well received,' mayor says

Economic relief sought due to low water levels; Delegation 'very well received,' mayor says

The mayors of Georgian Bay communities have been successful in meeting with the feds, but not with the Ontario premier regarding economic relief for businesses impacted by record low water levels.

http://bit.ly/12o5p3p Midland Free Press

Opening-weekend checklist for your cottage

Opening-weekend checklist for your cottage

http://bit.ly/12ii8or Cottage Life

It’s time to open the cottage, making May Two-Four one of the most chore-filled weekends of the year up here. But there’s no reason it has to be all work and no play. There are things that absolutely need to be looked after, but not everything is urgent. Here’s a checklist of stuff you absolutely need to do between drinks on the deck.

A good list to start with for when you go to open your cottage up for the summer. Have you opened your cottage for the summer yet?

What you should know about Georgian Bay water levels

What you should know about Georgian Bay water levels

Lake Huron’s water level hit a record low this past February, an inch below the previous record set in 1965—and it’s still dropping. This is the 13th year in a row that water levels for Huron, as well as Lake Michigan, have been below average. In Ontario’s Georgian Bay, the drop is especially damaging, closing marinas, cutting off water access to cottages and disrupting the entire ecosystem—including the sportfishery

http://bit.ly/10yMaRB Outdoor Canada

Landowner's Guide to Controlling Invasive Woodland Plants

Looking for information on how to get rid of Japanese Knotweed, or other invasive woodland plants?

Download the Landowner's Guide to Controlling Invasive Woodland Plants here:

http://www.ontarioinvasiveplants.ca/files/LandownerGuideInvasives_web.pdf   

Ontario Invasive Plant Council

Sunrise on Georgian Bay

A view like this, is why I like to get up early at the cottage. 

The sun is coming up over Beausoleil Island

Bi-weekly yard waste (including brush) collection will take place in the County during the spring and fall. This change significantly increases access to yard waste collection service and provides more flexibility.

Materials must be placed at curbside Monday at 7 a.m. of collection week. 

Yard waste may be placed in kraft paper yard waste bags, compostable bags, cardboard boxes or open-ended rigid containers. Plastic bags are not permitted. Brush must be contained as above or bundled securely with string, be no larger than 2 metres in length and 30 centimetres in diameter.

This week is a yard waste week for our area, please make you have your waste is out for Monday May 5th 7:00 AM

Restore Our Water International (ROWI) applauds the International Joint Commission (IJC’s) Advice

Press Release: Monday, April 29, 2013
Restore Our Water International (ROWI) applauds the International Joint Commission (IJC’s) Advice to Governments to investigate installation of flow reduction structures in the St. Clair River to respond to the ongoing low water crisis across the middle and upper Great Lakes. 

http://bit.ly/17tTpRf Restore Our Water International

I like the 20 Inch idea

Fix water levels in Huron, Michigan: IJC

Fix water levels in Huron, Michigan: IJC

http://bit.ly/Z9HFhs Midland Free Press

The international agency tasked with monitoring the quantity and quality of water in the Great Lakes is recommending governments need to address record low water levels in lakes Michigan and Huron.

However, at least one group advocating for action questions whether the recommendations will adequately address the long-term issues facing the Great Lakes — especially Huron and Michigan.
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It is a start

OPP Door-to-Door Frauds

OPP Door-to-Door Frauds 
FROM/DE: SOUTHERN GEORGIAN BAY DETACHMENT DATE: April 26, 2013 DOOR-TO-DOOR FRAUDS

(GEORGIAN BAY TOWNSHIP, ON) – Too often, members of the public are being scammed by persons identifying themselves as representatives from Water Heater, Home Heating, Home Repair, Driveway Sealers or Phone Companies, and the list goes on.

They always arrive at your door sometime in the late afternoon, early evenings or on weekends to discuss their product. They offer reduced rates, special bonus offers and prizes using the pretence of examining past bills or present equipment to get your name on a contract or sometimes just to get into your home.
http://bit.ly/ZSQ0Gl Tiny Township

Group demanding governments address low levels in Great Lakes

Group demanding governments address low levels in Great Lakes 

The international agency tasked with controlling water levels on the Great Lakes is recommending that governments need to address record low water levels in lakes Michigan and Huron.

However, at least one group advocating for action questions whether the recommendations will adequately address the long-term issues facing the Great Lakes — especially Huron and Michigan.

http://bit.ly/ZU40P1 Barrie Examiner 

FOCA April 2013 Elert

FOCA April Elert

Flooding in Cottage Country
Many parts of Ontario cottage country experienced flooding this week, as winter run-off hit the waterways. Missed the news? Check out this summary prepared by FOCA on Earth Day earlier this week.

ELA Reprieve?
FOCA is cautiously enthusiastic to spread the news this week that the Province of Ontario and the Province of Manitoba have committed to keep the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) open, through a proposed collaboration with the federal government, the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and other partners.

Changes to the Fisheries Act
The first set of regulations under a revised Fisheries Act have been released. See FOCA's comments, and a copy of the regulations posting from the Canada Gazette in the central "News" panel of FOCA's Hot Topics pages.

Association Support: "A.G.M. 101"
It's that time of year when thoughts turn to planning local Association meetings.
here for some handy tips from FOCA about setting the agenda, rules of order and finding speakers or sponsors for your local AGM.

Ready for your fifteen minutes of cottage fame?
Cottage Life is launching a National TV Channel this fall. FOCA has been approached by several production teams, looking for cottagers interested in sharing their stories on camera.

and much more, click on the link below

http://bit.ly/183riGW FOCA

Do not forget to sign up for the FOCA Elert on the FOCA home page

Damage from flood not covered by insurance

Damage from flood not covered by insurance

Those affected by the flooding in Haliburton County will not be receiving much relief from their insurance coverage.

Damage caused by overland flooding is not protected under home insurance policies anywhere in Canada, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

http://bit.ly/Zq9w0r Midland Free Press 

Did not know this, did you?

Eating invasive plants at the cottage

Eating invasive plants at the cottage

They wouldn’t be out of place on a “most wanted” list, these alien invaders that displace our native species and wreak havoc upon ecosystems. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources reports that invasive species are second only to habitat loss as a threat to the province’s biodiversity. But there’s a growing contingent of foodies and ecologists who suggest that these invasives could serve as good side dishes.

http://bit.ly/11J7PJA  Cottage Life

Please do not plant these to eat them, but if the are present on your property harvest as much a you can and enjoy the harvest. 

Ancient Egypt comes alive at Penetanguishene museum

Ancient Egypt comes alive at Penetanguishene museum
Did you miss seeing the Egypt: Gift of the Nile exhibit at the Royal Ontario Museum?

Are you interested in having a hands-on experience with some of the artifacts?

If you answered yes to either of those questions, you likely will enjoy the Egyptian Presentation at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum and Archives starting Thursday, May 2.

http://bit.ly/14TxB3V Midland Free Press

Cool

Potential reprieve for the ELA

Big news day! FOCA reacts to the announcement of a potential reprieve for the ELA. Read the news release:

April 24, 2013 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Peterborough, ON - The Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations (FOCA) is cautiously enthusiastic today, upon news that the Province of Ontario and the Province of Manitoba have committed to keep the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) open through a proposed collaboration with the federal government, the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and other partners. 

http://conta.cc/12JWsU7  FOCA

Dunlop asks Wynne to weigh in on water levels

Dunlop asks Wynne to weigh in on water levels

Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop has called on Liberal Premier Kathleen Wynne to meet with business leaders and politicians concerned about the low water levels of Georgian Bay.

http://bit.ly/14QvFt3 Midland Free Press 

Septic reinspections this year in our part of Tiny Township

Look's like it is our year for Septic reinspections on the beach.

http://bit.ly/11z4U4B Tiny Township

One of our corporate sponsors, Georgian Bay Sanitation is in the inspection business.

Expert advice for painting old chairs

Expert advice for painting old chairs

http://bit.ly/17BMWBX Cottage Life

Some good tips for fixing up that great old chair at the cottage 

The Good Lovelies perform at the MCC Friday night

The Good Lovelies perform at the MCC Friday night

http://bit.ly/ZjwdCD The Midland Free Press

They are a great folk band, loved them at Lachine Folk Festival.
Wish I was going to be up at the cottage for this show.

Improvements unveiled for Highway 400 from north of Canal Road to Innisfil Beach Road

Improvements unveiled for Highway 400 from north of Canal Road to Innisfil Beach Road 

http://bit.ly/133QXOP The Barrie Examiner

Through the Major Infrastructure Component of the Building Canada Fund, the governments of Canada and Ontario are each setting aside up to $41.5 million to rehabilitate more than 26 kilometres of Highway 400 from north of Canal Road to Innisfil Beach Road.

================
This should be a good thing once it is done. It will be not be fun during the road work. Friday night could be real bad... No time line is given, so I am guessing a year or two before it starts. This could take a few years to complete too.

5 spring cleaning tips for your cottage

5 spring cleaning tips for your cottage

http://bit.ly/111hmwB Cottage Life

Before the fun starts, it's clean up time. For some of the the bigger jobs, help your neighbours or may be they can help you. Maybe you received a pressure washer for Christmas, think about letting your neighbour borrow it, that way you both can finish up early and start the fun

Poll: Canada ranks second to last for amount of vacation time

Poll: Canada ranks second to last for amount of vacation time 

http://bit.ly/XA7v0j Cottage Life

Not a good ranking, they wonder why everyone is stressed out at work, this has to be a contributing factor.

How to spring clean a barbecue from Cottage Life

How to spring clean a barbecue

It greets you the same way it did last year and the one before that, a greasy and corroded indictment of your procrastinatory maintenance skills huddled on your deck. It is your gas barbecue, and you’ve been meaning to “tune it up” since your last batch of sooty lamb chops. Now’s the time, before the cocktails and fat fires of summer are in full swing.

http://bit.ly/Y7jcgA Cottage Life 

If you maintain your barbecue, it will last much longer. 

19th annual Library Garden Tour

The 19th annual Library Garden Tour will feature 15 unique garden properties in Tiny, Tay, Midland and Penetanguishene on Saturday, July 13, 2013 from 9am to 4pm.

Contact information: www.librarygardentour.ca

Documentary captures unique history of francophone people Huronie: histoires et légends

Documentary captures unique history of francophone people 

Stories of missionaries, aboriginals, thieves, a woman in love and more have all been captured on a new video documentary Huronie: histoires et légends.

The double DVD set of 28 stories filmed in the Lafontaine area captures the past and living history of the franco-Ontario people.

http://bit.ly/XsE42g Midland Free Press

The two-hour DVD set is in French with English subtitles and it’s on Youtube at www.youtube.com/user/huronie where one story a week will be posted.

======
Looks interesting, history of the area from the French view point. Hope I can find the time to drop in to Clé d’la Baie, 63 Main St., Penetanguishene and buy up a copy 

This Calculator Shows How Much Your Old Busted Fridge Costs You

This Calculator Shows How Much Your Old Busted Fridge Costs You

http://bit.ly/16yhEgD LifeHacker 

The results may surprise you. Do you have an old fridge at the cottage? You may be wasting a lot of energy.

Update on the Municipal Efforts Addressing the Low Water Levels in Georgian Bay

Update on the Municipal Efforts Addressing the Low Water Levels in Georgian Bay 


WHEN: Saturday April 13, 2013  10:00 a.m. to 12:00p.m.
WHERE:  Penetanguishene Memorial Community Centre - Brian Orser Hall
                   61 Maria Street, Penetanguishene

The impact of declining water levels on the Great Lakes has been studied by many groups over the past decade. These studies have assembled significant amounts of scientific fact, proposed a number of underlying causes and considered possible solutions.

For More Information click on the link

http://bit.ly/16vwXXw Town of Penetanguishene

Simcoe County waste changes begin

Simcoe County waste changes begin

http://bit.ly/10uh9QM  Barrie Examiner 

Just a reminder of the changes. Your waste needs to be out on the road by 7:00 AM

Just a reminder of our great Community Partners

Just a reminder of our great Community Partners 

http://clearwaterbeachontario.blogspot.ca/p/community-partners.html 

EHL Homes http://www.ehlhomes.ca/ 

Georgian Bay Sanitation http://www.georgianbaysanitation.ca

Royal LePage www.buygeorgianbay.com

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR THE SS KEEWATIN

They are making good progress on fixing up the Keewatin. If you have the time and are in the area they are looking for volunteers to help

News Fast and Furious..VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

http://bit.ly/Xkyn6r http://drone-on.com/

If you live near Port McNicoll or can get here this message is directed at you!  It has been a very cold winter and that has caused us several problems. As there is no heat on Keewatin, so the number of days that volunteers can spend meaningful time has been limited. The engine room ( Bilge Rats) have been stellar in showing up every Monday and they have made some great achievements in cleaning and adjusting our quadruple expansion steam engine.                                                                                                                                                   

Lot's of great Photo's are shown on the page liked to... 

County of Simcoe rolls out changes; Pick up days change with level of service

County of Simcoe rolls out changes; Pick up days change with level of service

http://bit.ly/Ygf9xn Midland Free Press

Looks like it is Tuesday for us on Clearwater Beach, if I used the tool right.

Experimental Lakes Area On CBC's As It Happens

If you are interested in the Experimental Lakes Area (ELA), CBC's As It Happens has had a few good interview on the ELA over the last week or so

These are the ones that caught my ear

Experimental Lakes Founder, Chinua Achebe, Oddest Book Title, Colorado Gun Laws, Via Train Stuck, Truckers -- Friday, March 22, 2013

Experimental Lakes, Assault Rifle Ban, Apostrophe Email, Picklesfest Poem, Self Immolation Case, Daisy Morris Fossil, Obama's Beast, No Food Talkback ---Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Experimental Lakes, Assault Rifle Ban, Apostrophe Email, Picklesfest Poem, Self Immolation Case, Esquire Editor, Daisy Morris Fossil, Obama's Beast, No Food Talkback -- Tuesday, March 19, 2013 

Cyprus Crisis, Experimental Lakes, Retiring Prostitutes, New Oil Spill System, Kalamazoo -- Monday, March 18, 2013 


You can download them from here
http://www.cbc.ca/asithappens/podcasts/

How to protect wildlife in spring

How to protect wildlife in spring

With spring on the way, your chance of spotting wildlife, particularly baby animals, is sure to go up. For the Rideau Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, a registered charity that treats and cares for injured or orphaned wild animals and turtles, spring brings many more visitors to their door. Still, that doesn’t mean all young animals left alone need rescuing.

Read the rest at Cottage Life

http://bit.ly/X4OXXY  Cottage Life

Water-level concerns to be discussed March 26 in Midland

Water-level concerns to be discussed March 26

We have observed drastic changes with lower water levels in the Great Lakes, especially in Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.

We will discuss these changes, and how they affect both indigenous and non-indigenous people, at a Couchiching Conversation gathering March 26 at the Midland library beginning at 7 p.m.

http://bit.ly/Yum05Q Midland Free Press

Any one able to go?

Keewatin Documentary mini-teaser

Watch a 60 second preview of the one-hour television documentary "Bring Her on Home - The return of the SS Keewatin". 

http://bit.ly/YpA8gO Vimeo

The documentary chronicles the months and years of planning that led up to her eventual repatriation to Port McNicoll, Ontario on June 23rd 2012 - a risky, complex and eventful journey. The documentary is now in the final stages of post-production and will be ready for broadcast in the summer of 2013. Go to: www.sskeewatin.com for air dates to be announced.

History: The SS Keewatin was built in 1907, 5 years before the Titanic, in Clyde, Scotland and she's the last surviving luxury passenger ship from that era and shares many of the Titanic's design cues. The Keewatin and her sister ship, the SS Assiniboia, plied the great lakes for over five decades and were instrumental in opening up Canada's west. Retired in 1965, she's been lovingly preserved and maintained by RJ and Diane Peterson in Saugatuk/Douglas, Michigan until June 2012. The SS Keewatin is the last of her kind anywhere in the world.

POLICE INFORM PUBLIC OF INTERNET TOOL

POLICE INFORM PUBLIC OF INTERNET TOOL

Members of the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to inform the public of a valuable internet tool available to them.
The Canadian Police Information (CPI) Centre website is operated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

There are three search fields available on the website. Users can search Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) on automobiles, trucks, vans, motorcycles, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, farm vehicles, heavy equipment vehicles, and trailers. Licence plate numbers and bicycle serial numbers can also be searched.

http://bit.ly/ZJLNWj Tiny.ca

Did not know about this, very good to know about. 

20th Anniversary Spring Cottage Life Show

20th Anniversary Spring Cottage Life Show
April 5 – 7, 2013 
International Centre, Toronto, 6900 Airport Road 

If you go make sure you drop by the FOCA booth and check out all the good things they have. Say hi to the volunteers, pick up the latest info, or maybe a FOCA hat or tee shirt..... 

Surf disc contest
Check out the Cottage Life Facebook page and watch a fun video of crazy stunts on an old school surf disc. It’s been reinvented by the creative minds at Muskoka Surfboard Company. Enter for a chance to win one!

Best deal on show tickets
Until March 31, buy your tickets online and choose a free Cottage Life hardcover book–either Best Summer Weekends Cookbook by Jane Rodmell, or The Cottage Ownership Guide by Douglas Hunter. Both are essential reading for any cottager!

Time to rock the dock!
Raise a glass and raise some funds for Cottage Dreams Cancer Recovery Initiative. Join us at the RE/MAX Dock Party for samples from Muskoka Brewery and Black Fly Coolers for the grown-ups, and delicious Margaritaville frozen drinks for all ages. Plus, bring your smile for a fun cottage photo op and a free takeaway photo souvenir.

http://cottagelife.com/shows/show-info?utm_source=Cottage+Life+Newsletter&utm_campaign=7691cc5c52-Show_blast_Mar_193_18_2013&utm_medium=email