By Parry-Sound Muskoka MP Scott Aitchison
The red and white was shining bright across Parry Sound – Muskoka for Canada Day!
Canada Day 2022 was the first time in two years that communities were able to gather and celebrate together. I was so excited to attend events across our riding, and to celebrate Canada with the people of Parry Sound – Muskoka – in person!
Sundridge kicked off the week by hosting their parade on June 25. It was a hot summer day, but the crowds were large and the spirits were high. A wonderful way to start the festivities.
Canada Day itself began with dark clouds and rain, but all of the flags that were planted in Downtown Huntsville brought out the bright skies and warm sun. I then visited the Lions Lookout in Huntsville to plant Canada flags on the grounds, enjoy the view, and do my first of several Facebook live videos of the day.
Huntsville organized a fantastic celebration at Heritage Place. There were fiddlers, guitar players, pioneers, cupcakes and strawberry shortcake for all. Burk’s Falls was next on the tour where residents gathered at Stan Darling Park in their red and white to enjoy a great barbeque and even better music!
Then it was off to Magnetawan where I met with the Almaguin Community Fish Hatchery Program, visited local businesses at the market, and attended the community gathering at the riverfront.
Later in the afternoon I made my way to Parry Sound. On the shores of Georgian Bay there was Ribfest, live music, children’s activities and much more. I had the chance to talk to many folks that afternoon, and spread some Canada Day cheer by handing out flags to all the kids!
When night fell I was in Bracebridge and took in their amazing fireworks display over the Bracebridge Falls. It was spectacular! The crowd was huge and the bay was filled with many more watching by boat. It was truly amazing to see.
South River held their celebration on the Saturday of the long weekend where I took part in their parade and barbecue down at Tom Thomson Park. It was an awesome way to finish the Canada Day celebrations for 2022.
Canada Day in our communities would not be possible without the amazing volunteers and service clubs that work tirelessly to plan and execute these events. From the barbeques, to the Canada Day cupcakes, pipe bands, markets, and parades these community leaders worked hard behind the scenes to bring us together. For that I say thank you!
Over the course of Canada Day I heard from you directly. While we are all immensely proud to be Canadians, and agree we live in the greatest country in the world, we are facing some tough challenges.
People are struggling to pay the bills with inflation making the daily necessities more expensive. The housing market is out of control with many unable to find a place to rent and many young people giving up on the hope of home ownership. Passport and travel delays are leaving people stranded and frustrated. The wounds of divisive pandemic policies have still yet to heal. Businesses are suffering from a labour shortage.
But I also heard inspiring stories from folks in our riding. Whether it be opening up a new small business, learning a trade, or working to improve our fish stocks, people in Parry Sound – Muskoka are rolling up their sleeves and getting the job done. I am always impressed by the resilience of our communities, and how we step up when times get tough.
I will continue to advocate in Ottawa for policies to support the people of Parry Sound-Muskoka and my office is always available to assist with federal issues. Please reach out for assistance and to keep me informed of issues you are dealing with.
The events that I attended these past few weeks have further proven what I already knew to be true, that even with the polarization, anger, and hardship that exists in Canada, we can all come together to celebrate the best country on earth, one that we are lucky to call home.
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