MANITOUWADGE — Manitouwadge Community Services held their second annual ‘kick off to summer’ party last weekend.
A small, but energetic crowd of young people took part in the sand castle building contest at Lion’s Beach. Only natural elements could be used to make the structures, so the kids had a blast digging into the sand, splashing in the water, and collecting rocks, flowers, and even drowned insects to decorate their castles. Prizes were given to all the participants, with the top builder receiving an amazing water blaster.
While the sand castles were being built, a scavenger hunt also took place. Letters spelling out the word, ‘Summer’ were hidden on trees, under benches, on rocks and even on the bathroom wall. All participants were awarded a refreshing jumbo Freezie for their efforts.
The last event of the ‘Kick off to Summer’ party was a three-legged race. The Cabral sister team won the event handily, although the Trish and Melissa team gave them a good run for their money, coming in second. The sisters were thrilled with their prizes of brand new boogie boards.
A three-on-three volleyball tournament and BBQ, sponsored by the Manitouwadge Wolverines, also took place at the beach. Eighteen teams, separated into two pools, took to the sand over the course of two days. The final took place on Saturday afternoon.
“This was just a warmup for next week’s Canada Day celebration,” community programmer Sarah Methrel said of the day’s events.
Although Manitouwadge’s Canada Day celebrations won’t include fireworks because of the fire restrictions, it will be filled with loads of things to see, hear, and do.
Residents are encouraged to decorate their bike or scooter and join the parade. Participants should meet at the post office at 1 p.m. Everyone who rides in the parade will receive a free small slush, courtesy of 2 Doors Down. Later in the day, beginning at 5 p.m., bring the whole family down to the ballpark behind the Rec Centre and try out your pitching skills at the Dunk Tank, where you get the chance to soak the fire chief, the town treasurer or bylaw officer, the principal of the high school, or an OPP officer for $2 a ball or three for $5.
There will be games and bouncy castles for the young folk, and at the end of the day, join your friends at the beer garden where you can listen to live music, featuring the classic rock sounds of the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s brought to you by the band, ‘Roundabout’, starting at 7:00 p.m.
Be sure to break out your Canadian swag for the Canada Day Lawn Decoration Contest, too! Dress up your driveway, front yard, and/or windows with flags, maple leaves, lights, etc., and celebrate in True North style. You must register for the contest by calling the township office at (807) 826-3227, extension 243. Leave your name, phone number and address. The first place winner will be announced during the evening show on Saturday.
