Lots of photos were taken at the recent Mildmay-Carrick Fall Fair with this sign painted by Sarah Stuy and Angela Schumacher featuring, Welcome to Mildmay in the Heart of Carrick, the proud home of Owen Reigling. Mildmay Ambassador of the Fair contestants Rachel, Jenna and Paige took advantage of the chance for a photo op. The sign was painted for Music in the Fields in Lucknow, Ontario where Reigling officially autographed it. It was then brought the Mildmay Fall Fair and also made an appearance the Mildmay Sacred Heart Parish Bazaar on Sept. 10.
This year’s Dinner Over the Yokasippi River on July 26 (the rain date, postponed from July 19) had its weather challenges, but what’s a little rain, to a group of history and environmental enthusiasts – and those who simply enjoy a unique adventure?
Pauline Kerr Local Journalism Initiative Reporter pkerr@midwesternnewspapers.com
CARGILL – This year’s Dinner Over the Yokasippi River on July 26 (the rain date, postponed from July 19) had its weather challenges, but what’s a little rain, to a group of history and environmental enthusiasts – and those who simply enjoy a unique adventure? The fact the adventure involved spectacular scenery, some delightful tall tales of the swamp, and a delicious meal (Harley’s outdid themselves!) added to the fun. Some of those who attended this year’s event were not strangers to the Cargill and Greenock Swamp Promotional Association, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the history of Cargill, and the importance of the Greenock Swamp to Bruce County. The others are strangers no longer, but fellow adventurers. Everyone listened to the tales of the swamp – the story of how Bruce County’s very own Greenock Swamp might have, lurking among the orchids and other strange flora and fauna, its very own Big Foot; of how the mysteriously glowing wisps of swamp gas have terrified visitors who didn’t know what they were seeing and weren’t sticking around to find out, and of the bootlegging – lots of bootlegging – that made the swamp notorious during prohibition. MC Shannon Wood and crew know their legends of the swamp, and have shared many them during the popular swamp tours that have taken place in the past few years. Some people have read about the legends in local publications. However, there’s something about hearing the legends, while looking down at the famous Teeswater River – also known by its Indigenous name, the Yokasippi – from a lovely, old iron bridge, while the sound of the “Log Driver’s Waltz” plays
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Continued from page 2 softly in the background. It’s easy to imagine the logs being floated down the river by lumber baron Henry Cargill’s workers, and the bootleggers evading the law by sinking the evidence into the bottomless mud of a nearby lake. However, on July 26, the bridge belonged not to the ghosts of old lumberjacks and bootleggers, but to diners determined to have a great time. And they certainly did. Most of the guests came prepared with rain gear and umbrellas, and the temperature was comfortably warm, despite the rain. After enjoying musical entertainment and a delicious meal of elegant appetizers, a main course of beef bourguignon with all the trimmings, and dessert of strawberry torte, all served with wine, the guests took a final look down at the scenic river, and were transported back to the Cargill Community Hall. Many are already inquiring about next year’s Dinner Over the Yokasippi River.
The bridge The bridge is one of many in Bruce County. What makes this one unique is the fact that connections are pinned, not riveted, a rarity in Ontario. They represent an earlier design of metal truss bridges, and were constructed between 1880 and 1915. After 1905, they decreased in popularity. The bridge has other unique features. While repairs have been done, the majority of the bridge retains its historical integrity regarding materials and design. The bridge is rated eight out of 10 for its historical significance. For more information about how the Cargill and Greenock Swamp Promotional Association continues to “bring history alive,” email greenocktours@gmail.com.
TEESWATER – Guests gathered among blooming lavender fields and live music on the evening of July 13 as Flavours of South Bruce returned for its fourth year at Essentially Lavender in Teeswater.
Organized by Explore the Bruce, the event being designed to show off local businesses and encourage residents and visitors to shop within the South Bruce region. From catering to entertainment and venue, all event components were sourced from within the area.
“The importance for this, I would say, is highlighting our businesses,” said Rhonda Niesen, economic development officer for South Bruce and chair of South Bruce Tourism. “That’s the reason why we decided to do it, to promote shopping local and using the businesses we do have.”
The evening included a catered dinner under the sun provided by Harley’s Pub and Perk of Mildmay, featuring a variety of appetizers such as sausages and fruit tarts. Guests were also offered lemonade and flavoured water to help stay cool in the summer heat.
Performing for the crowd were local musician Matt Chittick and the Huron Harp School.
“Anything that’s needed, from rentals to food to entertainment to catering — all of that you can do right here in South Bruce,” said Niesen. “You don’t have to go out of the area to do so.”
Attendees were invited to explore the grounds of Essentially Lavender at their own pace, taking self-guided tours through rows of lavender, wildflowers and pollinator gardens. The farm, known for its handcrafted essential oils and bath products, also houses an active aviary, where bees pollinate the fields and contribute to on-site honey production. The experience gave guests a firsthand look at the agriculture of the region.
Now in its fourth year, Flavours of South Bruce continues to grow in attendance and scope.
With increasing interest in farm-to-table experiences and rural tourism, Explore the Bruce and South Bruce Tourism hope events like Flavours of South Bruce will continue to draw attention to the local talent, products and spaces that make the area unique.
Anne O’Malley, who was born and raised on a farm in Culross Township, celebrated her 101st birthday on Sunday, June 22 – her calendar birthday – with a family party at Maple Court in Walkerton. She is pictured on our front page surrounded by sons and daughters and at right with more family members.
(Pauline Kerr photo)
Anne O’Malley celebrated her 101st birthday on Sunday, June 22 – her calendar birthday – with a family party at Maple Court in Walkerton.
It was quite a lively gathering, with a large cake and lots of laughter – she and her late husband TP O’Malley had 12 children, and the family has grown to include 26 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren.
Anne was born and raised on a farm in Culross, and attended school in Formosa. She and TP married in 1942 and farmed on the second concession of Culross. Family historian Larry O’Malley said the farm remained in the family until a few years ago.
Anne was employed at Campbell’s Soup in Listowel for 23 years.
She remains alert and active; she has always enjoyed reading and travel, and likes playing cards.
One of her daughters, Marg Strong, who organized the celebration, described her as “a wonderful mother and role model.”
Audrey McDiarmid recently delivered over 20 filled shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child to the Crier office. They were donated by members of Mercy Hill Christian Fellowship. A big thank you to everyone who has filled a shoebox this year – your generous donations are certainly appreciated!
