Press Release - Huronia Alarm & Fire Secutiry Inc. acquires Blue Moutain Lock, Key & Safe

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Midland, Ontario: December 18, 2013

Head:  Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc. has acquired Blue Mountain Lock, Key & Safe

Huronia has acquired Blue Mountain Lock, Key & Safe, a leading Southern Georgian Bay locksmith company located in Collingwood, Ontario.

"We are very pleased that Roger and Kim Gagne have agreed to join the Huronia family", said Kevin Leonard, President of Huronia Alarms.  "The locksmithing services they provide for residential, commercial, industrial and property management customers was a natural extension of our Security, Fire and Safety and Home Theatre wiring and installation businesses".  

Started in 1977, Blue Mountain Lock, Key & Safe is well known in the Georgian Triangle for a broad range of "key" related activities from simply making new ones for home, work and cars, to changing and repairing locks, as well as broader areas of security advice, safe and hardware installation.

"Our relationship with Huronia started many years ago" noted Roger Gagne, President of Blue Mountain Lock, Key & Safe.  “So having worked with them we knew that they had the same business philosophy and values as we do.  And that translated into our customers not only continuing to enjoy the high level of products and services we have been known for, but now they will have access to a larger array of security services ... including the quickly growing home entertainment and smart homes segments being required in today's marketplace.”

Blue Mountain Lock, Key & Safe will continue to reside and operate 24/7 at 313 Huronia Street, in Collingwood and will be moved Huronia’s Collingwood Office in the first quarter of 2014.

Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc. has been in business for over 40 years and is Central Ontario’s leading provider of home and business security and monitoring services, CCTV, fire and safety, lock, key and safe products and services, home theatre, audio and video consultation and entertainment room design, as well as cabling and smart home wiring for today's home automation requirements.

For more information contact:

Media Inquiries - Jaclyn Jones, Account Manager at Whiting & Holmes Limited

289-337-3662, jaclyn@whitingandholmes.com

Specific Inquiries relating to Huronia – Kevin Leonard, President at Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.,

705-792-9311, kleonard@huroniaalarms.com

Media Release - Quest Art Inviting Artists to Participate in Exhibitions

The New Year holds multiple opportunities for artists to display their works of art at Quest Art School and Gallery.

The first exhibition of 2014 in the Atrium Gallery is Pedagogy: Classroom to Gallery.  This exhibition is open to those who have taken a Quest Art workshop within the last two years, including children and teens.

A maximum of two works can be submitted and they must have been created during, or inspired by, the Quest Art workshop.

“This exhibition marries the two main components of Quest Art’s programming which are visual arts workshops and exhibition opportunities for all ages and skill levels,” said Karen Mealing, Quest Art’s operations coordinator. 

Works in the Pedagogy exhibition do not need to be framed, nor do they need to be for sale.  Those interested in submitting work for consideration for display must deliver their pieces to Quest Art on Jan. 13 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

The exhibition, sponsored by the County of Simcoe, takes place from Jan. 17 to March 1, with an opening reception on Jan. 17 from 7 to 9 p.m.

Quest Art has also issued an open call to Canadian artists working in any visual arts medium for their 10^th Annual Juried Art Show.

This year the panel of jurors includes internationally-known artist John Hartman, Matthew Macintosh, curator at the Orillia Museum of Art and History, and Luci Dilkus, a textile artist and owner of Le Studio Gallery.

Artists may enter a maximum of two submissions for the jurors’ consideration.

The entry fee is $30 per artist and the jurors’ will award three awards of $200 each and at the end of the exhibition a $100 People’s Choice award will be presented.

The deadline for applications is Feb. 3 and the exhibition takes place from March 7 to Apr. 26.  The opening reception and awards presentation will take place on March 7 from 7 to 9 p.m.

For more information on either of these exhibitions or visual arts workshops, visit www.questart.ca or call 705-526-ARTS (2787).

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Karen Mealing

Operations Coordinator

Quest Art School + Gallery

333 King Street

Midland, Ontario   L4R 3M7

www.questart.ca

Wye Marsh December Events

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:             

 SANTA’S WORKSHOP, Sunday December 1^st, 10am - 4pm

Even with his hectic schedule Santa always makes a stop off at Wye Marsh, so bring your cameras and get a photo here at the Marsh.  Then bring the kids to Santa’s nature craft table where they can make their own handmade pine cone bird feeder ornament.  Be sure to grab some seed then head off on the trails to hand feed chickadees and see the magnificent trumpeter swans.  Warm up by a fire and roast your own bannock and at 1pm be amazed by the birds of prey show.  Cost is general admission to Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre.  For more information contact Wye Marsh at (705)526-7809.

WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP AT WYE MARSH, Sunday December 1^st, 1pm - 4pm

The Friends of Wye Marsh are holding their ever popular wreath making workshop, December 1^st from 1pm to 4pm.  This workshop is always a great way to spend an afternoon with friends, getting ready for the holiday season.  Each participant will make their own wreath to take home and will be provided with full instruction and materials.  The cost of the workshop is $50, with all proceeds going to the Friends of Wye Marsh to help support their mission to foster environmental stewardship.  Sign up today for this popular workshop, before it sells out. Contact Wye Marsh at (705)526-7809 or info@wyemarsh.com to register.

First Light at Sainte-Marie Will Amaze Visitors With 5,000 Candles

November 8^th, 2013

Media Release – for immediate release

First Light at Sainte-Marie

will amaze visitors with 5,000 candles

 

Named by Festivals and Events Ontario as one of its “Top 100” events in the province, Midland’s Sainte-Marie’s among the Hurons spectacular First Light returns for its 14^th year on the evenings of November 28^th, 29^th and 30^th.

The unique feature of First Light is the illumination of the historic site only by candlelight. Over 5,000 candles in historic buildings and along lantern-lit paths lead to a variety of fun family activities.

Upon entering the site, visitors will encounter the popular “Survival In The Bush” historical encampment at the main gates. In the Jesuit Residence, children can write with quill pens as they prepare their very own seasonal messages on Christmas cards designed by students at Bayview Public Elementary School in Midland. The card is one of many Christmas “take home” crafts children can make at First Light. In the Sainte-Marie foyer, children will love making a corn husk doll, and creating a special angel ornament in the Carpenter Shop. Festival du Loup, La Clé d’la Baie and Eco Huronie will offer “Fleur de lys” crafts in the En Colombage building. In the Cookhouse 12,000 gingerbread and shortbread cookies from historic recipes will be available for sampling. The sounds and sparks of musket fire will fill the night courtesy of re-enactor group La Compagnie Franche de la Marine. 

Festive music has always been a crowd pleaser at First Light, and this year’s event will provide a wonderful mix of performers.  New this year will be Ruth Sutherland, playing selections from her “A Canadian Christmas” CD that has been nominated for 3 Hamilton Music Awards. A cappella troupe, Mix’n’Match will wander through the historic site filling the air with seasonal sounds. Local artist Michel Payment will share his inspiring songs in the Sainte-Marie Chapel. 

Traditional French and holiday music will be provided by the popular Famille Lefaive “ARIKO” and Jill et les Bucherons at the “French Café” in Restaurant Sainte-Marie. In Sainte-Marie’s famous longhouses, the Christian Island Drum Group and Red Spirit Drum Group will thrill audiences with their First Nations drumming, chanting, and singing.  A total of 12 choirs including seven school groups will also perform at the event over three evenings, including the return of The Children’s Community Choir from Penetanguishene, the OPP Chorus, la Chorale de l’École Sainte-Croix and le Choeur d’la Clé. 

For everyone who would like to do some early Christmas shopping, 21 exceptional artisans will be in the Sainte-Marie Museum and the Sainte-Marie gift shop will be open each night.

The magical First Light event will be presented at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons evenings November 28, 29, and 30 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.  Admission is just $10.00 per person with a non-perishable food item that will be donated to the local Salvation Army food bank.  Children ages 5 and under are free. For information call (705) 526-7838 or visit www.hhp.on.ca

Special Notes:  Please be advised that with the exception of service animals, pets are not allowed on the historic site for this event.  Overflow parking will be available at Doral Industries, (former Mitsubishi/RCA building) 100 Wye Valley Road. Free shuttle buses will operate from Doral to Sainte-Marie throughout each evening.

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is operated by Huronia Historical Parks,

and is an Attraction of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport.

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Media Contact:

Gary Molnar

Manager, Marketing, New Media and Visitor Services

Huronia Historical Parks

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Discovery Harbour

www.hhp.on.ca

Gary.Molnar@ontario.ca

705 528-7696

Information Sessions Community Health Centre

INFORMATION SESSIONS

Community Health Centre

Council of the Township of Tay invites you to attend an information session regarding the possibility of CHIGAMIK Community Health Centre opening a point of access in Tay. It would be located in the same building as the newly opened Tay Pharmacy in Victoria Harbour.
Community Health Centres are places that provide a combination of health care, health promotion programs and community development initiatives for individuals and families without a family doctor.
Representatives from the CHIGAMIK Community Health Centre will be on hand to present information on the role of a Community Health Centre and the various services that can be part of a Centre. This will be an opportunity for members of the public to learn more about Community Health Centres, which are an initiative of the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care.
Individuals are encouraged to attend, whether or not they have a family physician, as a survey will be distributed following the presentation. The purpose of the survey is to identify health needs of the residents of Tay.

Please feel free to attend one of the following sessions:

Port McNicoll - Thursday, November 14, 2013 – 2:00 to 4 :00 p.m.
J. G. Young Library 715 4th Avenue
Victoria Harbour – Thursday, November 14, 2013 – 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Oakwood Community Centre 290 Park Street

The Corporation of the Township of Tay
450 Park Street
Victoria Harbour, ON
(705) 534-7248 ext.229
Vera Finlay
www.tay.ca

HALLOWEEN HAUNT & MYSTERY AT WYE MARSH

Midland, Ontario – See the spooky side of nature at Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre Saturday October 26^th.   There will be a haunted house, scavenger hunt, crafts and games from 10am to 6pm.  Visitors will also have full access to our 25km trail system, birds of prey barn and display hall with reptiles and amphibians.  From 6pm to 9pm  (Ages 4+ 6pm-7pm; Ages 10+ 7pm -9pm)see what awaits when darkness takes over the marsh.  Visitors will be taken on a haunted mystery hike through the marsh, where they will encounter the creatures that only come out at night.  Cost of entry is general admission to Wye Marsh and includes the Haunted Mystery Hike.  Cost of entry AFTER 6pm for the Haunted Mystery Hike is $5.  

Media Release: Thanksgiving Harvest Festival at Sainte-Marie

Gina Denne displays some samples of her exquisite pottery and designs in preparation for the Thanksgiving Harvest Festival and Arts and Crafts Show and Sale event at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons on October 12-13.  The event features 42 exceptional artisans, fun Fall heritage activities on the historic site, and much more.  For further event info call 705 526-7838 or visit hhp.on.ca 

Seniors Have Fun at the Farm! - The Villa Retirement Lodge

Youth Employment Fund (YEF) - Midland YMCA Employment Service

Information Session on September 24th at 12:30pm to provide details about the new Youth Employment Fund (YEF) to be launched by Employment Ontario on September 23.

In response to the high youth unemployment rate, YEF will support employers who want to employ youth 15-29 in their communities.

See the attached flyer for further details on this information session. Please RSVP by September 23rd by calling 705-528-0845. We look forward to seeing you on September 24th and supporting you with your employment needs. 

Midland YMCA Employment Service

County of Simcoe Community Summit

County of Simcoe Community Summit

The County of Simcoe is pleased to announce they will be hosting a Community Summit on October 9, 2013 from 8:30 a.m. -  4:00 p.m. to provide an overview on the Labour Market Partnership Project, as well as an update of programs and services within the Social Services Division and the Ontario Disability Support Program. Please be advised the option is available to attend for the full day or half day, understanding that the objective for each session will vary.

The MORNING SESSION: will be focused on Simcoe County's Labour Market Partnership Project. At this session you will hear about the key findings presented in the Community Labour Force Report and have an opportunity to offer your expertise by participating in an interactive workshop that will inform the next steps of the project. You will also have an opportunity to self-identify your level of participation in future phases and ultimate implementation, performance measurement and monitoring.

The AFTERNOON SESSION: is focused on an update on programs and services. Presentations will include informational updates from:
• Ontario Works
• Social Housing
• Children and Community Services
• Ontario Disability Support Program

To register for this event please go to the following link and provide us with all of the information needed in order to participate in this session.

http://simcoecommunitysummit.eventbrite.ca/

FRANCO-ONTARIAN DAY HIGHLIGHT AT SAINTE-MARIE AMONG THE HURONS

SPECIAL ALERT:

FRANCO-ONTARIAN DAY HIGHLIGHT AT SAINTE-MARIE AMONG THE HURONS

Enjoy Franco-Ontarian Day at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons Wednesday September 25. This program highlight will feature Franco-Ontarian folk tales, historic blacksmithing and cooking, complimentary cake, and a special film presentation.  The Franco-Ontarian Day highlight is Included with regular site admission.  For info call 705 526-7838 or visit hhp.on.ca

Mike Serafin, Historic Program Group Leader, practices some historic cooking in preparation for the Franco-Ontarian Day highlight at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons September 25.  The day will feature the telling of Franco-Ontarian folk tales, historic blacksmithing and cooking, and complimentary cake.  A documentary film entitled “Pis nous autres dans tout ­­ça?” will also play in the Sainte-Marie foyer, exploring perceptions of Franco-Ontarian heritage.  

For info call 705 526-7838 or visit hhp.on.ca

HURONIA MUSEUM STRATEGIC PLAN

HURONIA MUSEUM STRATEGIC PLAN

The Huronia Museum is undertaking a Strategic Planning Exercise that will identify strategic directions and actions to be taken over the next several years. 

Strategic Planning is a dynamic process especially helpful in assisting an organization to take the steps needed to adapt and become more responsive to a changing environment. It involves identifying current circumstances, issues and opportunities both internal and external, developing a description of the desired future or Vision for the organization, and then determining key, strategic actions that will assist the organization to ultimately achieve its Vision.   As part of the process, the organization’s Mission (or stated purpose) and Goals are also reviewed to ensure that they are consistent with the Vision as well as current and effective in directing year to year planning.

Most simply, a number of questions are considered:  Where are we now?  Where do we want to be in the Future?  Are we doing the right things?   How will we get there?  

This questionnaire will be utilized as a first step in gathering input from a sampling of respondents that are internal (e.g. board, staff, members, volunteers) as well as external stakeholders (relevant organizations, partners, municipality, Museum users, the community in general); who have a vested interest and/or are intended to benefit from the Museum’s services, activities and programs.

Your insight and thoughts are very important and much appreciated.   The information provided will have a critical role in developing a Strategic Plan intended to support the Huronia Museum in planning for its future and continued success.

PART A:   HURONIA MUSEUM  MISSION

What is your relationship or experience with the Huronia Museum?

(i.e. board member, volunteer, community organization, staff, frequent visitor etc.)

What is your understanding of the overall purpose or Mission of the Museum?

To your knowledge, what programs, activities or services does it provide?

Who in your opinion benefits from the above?

PART B:   ENVIRONMENTAL SCAN

INTERNAL ENVIRONMENT

(internal items, or primarily within the control of the Museum)

What in your knowledge or opinion are the STRENGTHS of the Huronia Museum?

(e.g. what is it doing well, membership base, skills, commitment, human resources, what attributes or assets does it have, how utilized, valued by the public etc.)

What in your view could be IMPROVED?

(any weak areas, what it could be doing better,  better fulfill its mandate, internal relationships and responsibilities, problems that need to be solved, how can it better serve the community, are there gaps that are not being met etc.)

EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENT

Factors or trends within the broader environment that impact or could impact upon the Museum, usually beyond the control of the Museum

(e.g. demographics, economic trends, political, changing community/population, community needs, collaborators, funding, competitors, laws/ regulations, technology etc.)

What in your view could be considered threats or issues impacting upon the delivery of the Museum’s Mission?  Are there any threats that could also be considered opportunities?

What advantages or positive circumstances exist or could present themselves as opportunities for the Museum in delivering its Mission.

PART C:   VISION FOR THE FUTURE

(i.e. desired picture of the future)

What would your preferred Vision be for the Huronia Museum in next five years?

PART D:   SUCCESS IN THE FUTURE

Considering your previous comments, and given current circumstances, what in your view are the most critical factors for achieving success as well as the most significant issues or barriers to be addressed?

Please submit your responses (electronically if at all possible or if not by fax or mail) to:

Judy Adams

Strategic Planning Facilitator

Email:  Judy.Adams@ontario.ca

Fax: 705-739-6697

By    Friday, September 13, 2013                          THANK YOU!

TALL SHIPS ® 1812 Tour Event an Outstanding Success at Discovery Harbour!

Assistant Deputy Minister Morah Fenning raises a “Celebrate Peace” flag with Huronia Historical Parks General Manager Jan Gray (right) as part of the official Opening Ceremony at Discovery Harbour to start the TALL SHIPS ® 1812 Tour event.  Over 5,500 people visited Discovery Harbour the weekend of August 24-25 and enjoyed on-deck visits aboard Discovery Harbour’s own Tall Ships H.M.S. Tecumseth and Bee, plus guest American ships Lynx and Friends Good Will.  The spectacular event also featured the newly opened H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre, live music, children’s heritage crafts and games, marine artisans, and much more.  Discovery Harbour is currently open to September 1, and then open for extended Fall dates Thursday to Sunday September 5-8 and September 12-1

Quest Art Hosting Multi-Generational Shilling Exhibition

Quest Art hosting multi-generational Shilling exhibition

Quest Art School and Gallery is proud to present Nindede, a multi-generational exhibit featuring the work of Arthur, Travis and Bewabon Shilling. 

This is one-of-a-kind exhibition features work which breaks through the boundaries of traditional Aboriginal art.

“As the new Program Coordinator at Quest Art, I was extremely excited when I heard our next exhibit was going to feature the timeless masterpieces of Arthur Shilling alongside the works of his two sons,” said Jill Price, Program Coordinator at Quest Art. 

“I was already a huge admirer of Travis' work, as I had seen two of his most recent "Flood" series at the Orillia Museum of Art and History,” Price continued.  “Now I have become charmed by the more minimalist approach to landscape within Bewabon's practice.”  

“As I continue to study the expressiveness mark-making and listen to the acquired stories behind the artists and their work, I realize that this collection of historical and contemporary works by the Shilling family, has the potential to become one of the richest presentations of aboriginal culture and the Ontario art scene from the 1970's til now,” stated Price.  “I hope those who visit Quest Art this fall will feel as honoured as I do to be in the presence of this work.”

The exhibition, which has been shown at the Southampton Art Society and Georgina Arts Centre and Gallery, runs from Aug. 22 to Oct. 26.

The work by Arthur Shilling is from the private collection of Rudy and Gloria Bies.

The opening reception on August 22, from 7 to 9 p.m., features a smudging ceremony, drummer and a taste of traditional foods.  All are welcome to attend.

The show continues to Oct. 26 and there is no charge to view the exhibition.  Quest Art thanks Midland Toyota for their generous sponsorship of this exhibition.

Also taking place on Aug. 22 is the opening reception of Works on Paper and the silent auction of the Steamroller Prints created on Aug. 17.  Works on Paper continues to Oct. 21.

Quest Art School and Gallery is a charitable organization offering educational workshops for all ages and exhibition opportunities.  They are located within the Midland Cultural Centre at 333 King St., Midland.  For more information about these exhibitions or workshops, call 705-526-2787 or visit www.questart.ca.

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For more information about these exhibitions, please contact myself at karen@questart.ca or Jill Price at jill@questart.ca.  We hope you will join us for the opening reception on Aug. 22.

Thank you,

Karen Mealing

Operations Coordinator

Quest Art School + Gallery

333 King Street

Midland, Ontario   L4R 3M7

www.questart.ca

Engaging and enriching the community through visual arts appreciation, education and exhibition.

Photo:  The work of Arthur Shilling, along with that of his sons Travis and Bewabon, will be on display at Quest Art from Aug. 22 to Oct. 26.  The show will feature pieces by Arthur Shilling, including this self-portrait, from the private collection of Gloria and Rudy Bies, seen here with Quest Art Operations Coordinator Karen Mealing, left, and Quest Art Program Coordinator, Jill Price.

H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre opens at Discovery Harbour

August 14, 2013

Media Release: For Immediate Release

H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre opens

at Discovery Harbour

The dynamic H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre will open to the public on Monday, August 19 at Discovery Harbour, offering visitors a world-class facility that showcases the original 1815 hull of H.M.S. Tecumseth and dynamic themed exhibits surrounding the history of the Penetanguishene Naval Establishment including its relationship to the War of 1812.

The original 1815 hull was pulled from Penetanguishene Bay in 1953 but has not had a climate controlled permanent home until now.  After stabilization and preparation, the 1815 hull of H.M.S. Tecumseth was carefully moved into its new home in June.  Final exhibits and building details were then completed and installed.  The hull move was also documented and can be viewed by visitors on a touchscreen in the new gallery.

The new exhibits in the H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre display numerous artifacts from the site’s 19^th century history including the original 1815 clear-glass deck lights from H.M.S. Tecumseth plus a wide array of intriguing items including a powder flask, period coins, a brass platter stamped with the King’s mark, compasses, a carronade, a ship’s anchor, and even a rum bottle and flask.  Key historical personalities associated with the site’s history are also explored, including Naval Hydrographer Henry Bayfield, Captain Samuel Roberts, and Chief Tecumseh.  The new H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre offers a superb visitor experience and is a “must-see” highlight at Discovery Harbour.  The attraction and the H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre will also be open into September on a Thursday to Sunday schedule, September 5-8 and 12-15.

The exhibit was funded in part by the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, 1812 Commemoration Fund.  The Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport provided funding for the construction of the H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre, stabilization of the 1815 Tecumseth hull, and the permanent exhibit.  A grand

 (VIP) opening event for the Centre is scheduled for early next Spring, 2014.

“When opened, the new H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre will be unique in Canada and will truly serve as a dynamic visitor area to permanently showcase the site’s 19th century story and its ties with the history of Penetanguishene, the region, and other heritage sites throughout Ontario”, noted Jan Gray, General Manager of Huronia Historical Parks.   

The opening of the H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre is also an added new feature to the exciting regional TALL SHIPS ® 1812 Tour Event on August 24-25, supported by

the Government of Ontario.  As part of the event, Discovery Harbour will welcome the American Tall Ships Lynx and Friends Good Will to the King’s Wharf for public touring. Over the weekend, great musicians including Canadian folk artists Tamarack, Ariko, Jill et les Bûcherons, Vince Therrien, and The Salty Sailor Singers will perform and delight crowds at Discovery Harbour.

 “Every season Discovery Harbour educates, enlightens and entertains residents and visitors alike about the rich heritage and history of our people and our province.  Our Government is proud to partner with Huronia Historical Parks and support marquee War of 1812 Bicentennial commemorations throughout Ontario like the TALL SHIPS® 1812 Tour.  The opening of the new H.M.S. Tecumseth Centre will showcase the Penetanguishene Naval Establishment that played a critical role in the development of our nation while adding an innovative new attraction for generations of Ontarians to explore and experience.”

-Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

The best buy for the TALL SHIPS ® 1812 Tour Event is the “Passport” at $18.00 per person which allows on-board access to the Tall Ships at Discovery Harbour, the Port of Penetanguishene, and the Port of Midland on August 24-25.   Passports are now available for sale at the admissions areas of Discovery Harbour and Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, as well as the Midland Tourist Information Centre at Town Dock, the North Simcoe Sports and Recreation Centre in Midland, Penetanguishene Town Hall, and the Penetanguishene Tourist Information Centre.

For further information visit hhp.on.ca, or call 705 526-7838.

Discovery Harbour is operated by Huronia Historical Parks,

and is an Attraction of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

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Media Contact:

Bill Brodeur

Coordinator

Marketing and Media Relations

Huronia Historical Parks

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

Discovery Harbour

Bill.Brodeur@ontario.ca

705 528-7692

Rob Dozzi Has Been Appointed Vice President of Finance & Administration, for Huronia Alarms

PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Collingwood, Ontario: August 15th, 2013

The appointment of Rob Dozzi as Vice President of Finance & Administration, for Huronia Alarms, effective June 1st, was announced by Kevin Leonard, President.
“Rob brings over 25 years of finance, operations and administrative experience to Huronia from a number of major Canadian companies. As a key member of our Senior Management Team, Rob will be instrumental in helping develop Huronia’s plans for growth in new and existing markets, and industry segments,” Leonard said.
Dozzi will lead the day-to-day financial and administrative activities including the development of new processes and procedures in both the Midland and Collingwood offices.
“In three to five years we will have fully implemented new administration and accounting systems which will equate to an even better Customer Service experience – that’s our main focus at Huronia and I’m excited to be a part of the Team,” said Dozzi.
Huronia Alarms is Central Ontario’s leading provider of home and business security and monitoring services, CCTV, fire and safety services and products, home theatre, audio and video consultation and entertainment room design, as well as cabling and smart home wiring for today's home automation requirements.

For more information contact:
Media Inquiries - Jaclyn Jones, Account Manager at Whiting & Holmes Limited, 289-337-3662, jaclyn@whitingandholmes.com
Specific Inquiries relating to Huronia Alarms – Kevin Leonard, President at Huronia Alarms, 705-792-9311, kleonard@huroniaalarms.com

National War of 1812 Veteran Graveside Recognition Project Inaugural Plaque Laying Ceremony

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

National War of 1812 Veteran Graveside Recognition Project

Inaugural Plaque Laying Ceremony

Sunday, July, 28^th, 2013, 12:00 noon

St. James on-the-lines Anglican Church

215 Church Street, Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada

A national project that is unique in Canadian History to honour veterans of the War of 1812 will begin at St. James-on-the-Lines Anglican Church in Penetanguishene Ontario on Sunday, July 28, 2013. The first two granite plaques to mark the graves of veterans of the War of 1812 will be unveiled in a ceremony at the church cemetery following the service. The unveiling ceremony will take place at approximately 12:00 noon.

This is a massive national project initiated by the Historic Military Establishment of Upper Canada, a not for profit charitable volunteer organization based in Penetanguishene. This project will see us map and identify veterans of the War of 1812 and mark their graves with a bilingual black granite plaque so all Canadians can honour their service to our nation.

The details of this bicentennial project can be viewed at a recently launched website: www.1812veterans.ca.

This project was fortunate enough to receive funding from the Federal government War of 1812 Commemorative Fund and our organization thankfully acknowledges the support of the Government of Canada for this Bicentennial initiative.

This is a national project that has a website dedicated to providing a searchable data base of the biographies of War of 1812 veterans for the use of students and researchers alike, a data base that until now has never been attempted. Each plaque placed at a War of 1812 Veteran's gravesite across Canada will relate to corresponding biographies of the veterans with the location of the grave on our website. Over the first phase of the project we hope to add up to 1000 War of 1812 veterans across the country and post the biographies that will tell the stories of these Canadian heroes.

We encourage the public to attend this most historic plaque unveiling and honour local War of 1812 Veterans – Captain James Keating – R.A. and Admiral John Moberly – R.N.

Our organization has taken on the project to ensure that the War of 1812 veterans get the recognition that they deserve, not only in the defense of Canada, but also for their dedication in building the foundation of the Canada that we live in today.

For more information contact:

David Brunelle
davidbrunelle@rogers.com
705-716-7124

or

Lyn Downer
lyn.downer@bell.net
705-361-1257

Banding Hummingbirds at Wye Marsh

For Immediate Release:

Banding Hummingbirds at Wye Marsh

Midland, Ontario – There will be a hum of activity at Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre this weekend (July 12^th, 13^th & 14^th) as they celebrate the Ontario Hummingbird Festival.  The festival is one of Ontario’s most unique nature festivals, giving visitors the opportunity to see hummingbird banding up close. 

The festival is centered on the hummingbird as one of Ontario’s most recognizable and beloved birds.  Every spring we delight in their arrival and go out of our way to attract them to our gardens and patios.  The familiarity and fondness of hummingbirds makes them the ideal backyard ambassador.  When gardeners and landowners plant and create habitat for hummingbirds they are protecting nature for the needs of all wildlife species. 

Leading the banding demonstrations is internationally renowned Bob Sargent from The Hummer/Bird Study Group.  Sargent has been banding birds since 1987 and uses the banding sessions as a way to educate and promote the preservation of wildlife and their habitat to participants both young and old.  Sargent is especially passionate about environmental education with children.  “The hands-on approach to educating children allows each child present to experience birds as living, breathing creatures deserving of our protection.”  The banding demonstrations will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday morning from 7am to 11am.

To kick off the festival there will be a special Friday night presentation with Bob Sargent, from 7pm to 9pm.  Bob will be sure to entertain, educate and inspire listeners while they indulge in treats made by Grounded Coffee co.  Saturday, 10am families can learn how to get their children excited about birding with Wild Birds Unlimited, and then at 1pm plant a hummingbird attracting planter with native plants from Ego’s Garden Centre.  Sunday there are photography workshops with Anne Brokelman Nature Photography and a presentation at 1pm on how to attract hummingbirds with Bob Sargent.  Throughout the festival (10am to 4pm) there will be activities for children, plant sale, local artisans, and an outdoor café with Grounded Coffee co.

Visitor experiences during the banding demonstrations will vary and depend on weather and hummingbird numbers.  Registration is required for workshops and preferred for the banding sessions and presentations.  To register contact Wye Marsh at info@wyemarsh.com or 705-526-7809.  For further information go to www.wyemarsh.com.

For further information please contact:

Laura Thomas

Friends of Wye Marsh

Marketing and Development Coordinator

705-526-7809 x 205

lthomas@wyemarsh.com

Bob Sargent

Hummer/Bird Study Group Inc.

www.hummingbirdsplus.org

205-681-2888

RubyThroat@aol.com

Norm Foster comedy up next at the King's Wharf Theatre

Norm Foster Comedy Exposes the Hilarious Truth
about finding the Perfect Mate

Thursday, July 4^th, 2013

PENETANGUISHENE – Have you ever asked yourself, what are the top ten qualities in your perfect mate? This universal question is at the heart of Norm Foster’s irresistible comedy The Love List, opening this summer at the King’s Wharf Theatre. This witty romp promises to keep audiences laughing from July 17^th through August 3^rd.

Written by Canada’s leading comic playwright, The Love List is a delightful tale of perfection and the pursuit of happiness. Foster’s perceptive look at contemporary dating is also a testament to men who don’t get what they wish for – but get what they deserve.

“The Love List is one of Foster's funniest comedies," says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. “The intimacy of the King’s Wharf Theatre is the perfect showcase for such a witty and insightful production. Audiences are in for a real treat.”

As a gift for his best friend’s 50^th birthday, Leon has decided to help Bill - a mild-mannered civil servant who has been divorced for seven years and dateless for almost as long - find his soul mate. Together the two men enlist the help of a “dating service” and dream up a Top Ten list of must-have attributes of the ideal woman. To their surprise and delight, this fantasy woman arrives in the flesh when the luscious Justine appears, but the men quickly learn that their flawless list could stand a few revisions.

Foster’s clever dialogue has the audience continually guessing as Leon and Bill change each item on The Love List, which results in dramatic personality changes in Justine.

A top notch cast has been assembled for this winning comedy including David Ludwig as Bill, the divorced and dateless statistician in search of excitement in his love life. Neil Foster delivers plenty of laughs as Leon, the long married best friend of Bill and Heather Hodgson takes on the role of Justine, the most imperfect, perfect woman.

The Love List is directed by Chris McHarge. A well-known figure in Canadian theatre, McHarge has directed over 100 productions including 11 world premieres of Norm Foster’s plays and musicals. McHarge also directed Foster’s Bedtime Stories and The Melville Boys for Drayton Entertainment this last season, both of which received tremendous audience response.

Joining McHarge on the Creative Team are Set Designer Stephen Degenstein, Lighting Designer Lyle Franklin and Costume Designer Jessica Bray.

The Love List is sponsored by Comfort Inn, Midland. Media Sponsors are 104.1 FM The Dock and The Midland Penetanguishene Mirror. The Design Sponsor is The Peak 95.1 FM. The 2013 Season is sponsored by John & Terry Hamilton. The 2013 Season Media Sponsor is CTV.

The Love List runs July 17^th through August 3^rd. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kingswharftheatre.com, in person at the Kings Wharf Theatre Box Office, or by calling (705) 549-5555 or toll free 1-855- DRAYTON (372-9866).

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For more information please contact: Valerie O’Brien, Marketing Manager
(519) 621-5511 ext. 235 or email valerie@draytonentertainment.com

Ontario to Increase Accessibility, Boost Economy

Province Appoints New Accessibility Council

July 5, 2013 | Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Employment

Ontario is taking steps to ensure that people living with disabilities can fully participate in all aspects of our economy and society with the appointment of members to the Accessibility Standards Advisory Council/Standards Development Committee.
The Council represents a cross-section of leaders from Ontario's disability community and organizations that have to comply with Ontario's accessibility laws. Alongside Chair Jim Sanders, the Council will work to increase accessibility in Ontario. Their first order of business will be to review and enhance the service standard that applies to customer service.
Increasing accessibility across the province will help boost Ontario's economic growth and competitiveness by improving employment rates for Ontarians with disabilities and by helping organizations that sell goods and services focused on accessibility.
Making sure all Ontarians have an opportunity to participate in the workforce and contribute to building a stronger economy is part of the government's plan to create a fair society for all.

Quick Facts

• Over the next 20 years, people with disabilities will represent 20 per cent of Ontario's population.
• The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act was passed in 2005 with the goal of making the province accessible by 2025.
• A fully accessible Ontario could generate up to $9.6 billion in new retail spending, according to a report by the Martin Prosperity Institute, and up to $1.6 billion in new tourism spending.

Quotes

"Our plan to make Ontario a fully accessible province is the right thing to do, and it makes economic sense. If our economy is to be vibrant and if our society is to be truly fair and inclusive, all Ontarians must have the opportunity to contribute."

- Dr. Eric Hoskins
Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Employment

"I am extremely pleased to chair this important committee and contribute my skills and knowledge to making Ontario a better place to live. A fully accessible society is important for everyone. It will allow many of us to enjoy a quality of life that most others take for granted"
- Jim Sanders
Chair, Accessibility Standards Advisory Council/Standards Development Committee

Download Electronic Press Kit

Background

Ontario's Accessibility Standards Advisory Council/Standards Development Committee
Ontario's Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 (AODA) requires the establishment of an Accessibility Standards Advisory Council/Standards Develop
Read Backgrounder

Learn More

• Discover why accessibility is important for our economy.
• Find out how businesses can comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons to celebrate Aboriginal Heritage June 21-23

June 6, 2013

Media Release – for immediate release

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons

to celebrate Aboriginal Heritage June 21-23

The national historic site Sainte-Marie among the Hurons will offer an outstanding celebration of Aboriginal heritage over three consecutive days with its National Aboriginal Day event Friday June 21 and the Aboriginal Festival Saturday and Sunday June 22-23.

National Aboriginal Day Friday June 21 is a time for all Canadians to celebrate the cultures and contributions to Canada of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.  On this special day over 900 school children and teachers are currently booked to attend the event at Sainte-Marie.  Visitors will be greeted with inspiring Aboriginal drumming by Chris Walser, and can then free-flow to a great selection of hands-on activities on the historic site that share the dynamic culture of Canada’s First Nations.  NEW this year will be the Haudenosaunee Dancers, an Iroquois drum and dance group that uses water drum and cow horn to provide engaging performances that thank the Creator and reinforce community relationships.  The on-site program will also feature the riveting Aztec Drumming Group as well as the popular Neil Monague Hand Drumming Group performing in the longhouse.  Also NEW to the event is the Youth Métis Nation of Ontario, who will offer an interactive craft as part of the historic site program.

Sainte-Marie’s exciting celebration of Aboriginal culture will continue on June 22-23 with the Aboriginal Festival running throughout the entire weekend. The  Haudenosaunee Dancers and Aztec Drumming Group will perform six times each day, as well as daily performances by the Neil Monague Hand Drumming Group.  The impressive Survival in the Bush outdoor encampment will greet visitors at the entrance to the historic site, complete with costumed animators who will share wilderness survival techniques.   Activities and demonstrations on the historic site will include making corn husk figures, making clay Okies (a Wendat good luck charm), playing lacrosse, bracelet making, constructing a traditional bone game, and basket weaving.  Visitors can also try their hand at cooking bannock over an open fire, and sample herbal teas. In the Sainte-Marie foyer, superb Aboriginal crafters will showcase   First Nations fine art, jewelry, white buffalo sage, healing bags made with flaxseed and cedar, leatherwork, and dream catchers.  An exquisite collection of photographs entitled “The Spirit of Drumbeats” by photographer Sydney Hedderich is also on display, capturing the “in-motion” beauty of traditional Pow Wows.

National Aboriginal Day is on Friday, June 21 and the Aboriginal Festival runs Saturday June 22 and Sunday June 23 at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons.  

For further information please visit hhp.on.ca or call (705) 526-7838.

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Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is operated by Huronia Historical Parks,

and is an Attraction of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport.

Media Contact:

Bill Brodeur

Coordinator,

Marketing and Media Relations

Huronia Historical Parks

Bill.Brodeur@ontario.ca 

(705) 528-7692