KAGAWONG—Perfect weather and a day packed with a long list of activities left smiles on everyone’s faces following the annual Kagawong Summer Fest held this past weekend.
Along with the 20th Annual Manitoulin Art Tour and Ride Manitoulin and a host of other festivals, Kagawong was abuzz with people from all over the Island and beyond.
From the first bite of a syrup-laden pancake to the final bid at the United Church’s silent auction, it was by all accounts a huge success.
It takes many volunteers, business owners and community minded citizens to pull off this type of event. It is through the efforts of the museum board, volunteer firefighters, members of the OPP, Billings Recreation committee members, and countless others to make it work.
One hundred and twenty six items were generously donated to the United Church for their annual silent auction at the Park Centre.
Just steps from the door, Word in the Park’s writers were on hand sharing poems and snippets from their latest books. Bonnie Kogos, a visitor to Kagawong for many years, along with fellow Writers’ Circle member Vincente Belenson entertained the audience during their comedy hour in which they performed a three act play based on Ms. Kogos’ book ‘Manhattan Manitoulin.’ Other writers included Paula Mallea, Pam McLaughlin, Linda Wilson, Ann Elizabeth Carson, Kate Thompson, Jan McQuay, Marion Seabrook and Chuc Willson.
Five artists took part in the second annual Boardwalk Artwalk including returning artist Jenna Carter, who recently created an historic Kagawong walking tour map available at the Old Mill Heritage Museum. Ms. Carter has a complete set of note cards and post cards depicting the buildings for sale as well.
New to the Artwalk this year was Connie Dalrymple with her dried flowers and paper toile, artists Nancy Milburn, Erin Blythe Reddie and Nancy McDermid.
Suzanne Darlaston, along with Ms. Carter, returned this year with a few new pieces of beautiful jewellery created in her home studio overlooking Mudge Bay.
Approximately a dozen cars took part in the show and shine which was held at the north end of Henry Drive. Sharing space with them at that end of town were members of the volunteer fire department and OPP, providing tips on boat safety and fire prevention in the home. Two carbon monoxide detectors were given out.
Cooking with Bella performed and strolled throughout the grounds and led over 35 people from the ages of two to 82 in the 1st Annual Musical Chairs Dance Off. The tennis court was also home to members of the Recreation Committee where they sold candy floss, iced coffee and lemonade. A table was set up by the group selling bandanas for canine friends and information on past and upcoming events hosted by the members.
New to this year’s Summer Fest was ‘flush a friend’ which literally takes the dunk tank and turns it on its head. Mayor Aus Hunt threw the first ball at Councillor Sandi Hurcomb and being the good sport he is, went home, changed his clothes and returned to take a turn under the bucket to be ‘flushed.’
Economic Development Committee members have something to be proud of in a lovely new building, Riverbend Stage, which hosted its first event as the Housewives of Kagawong entertained close to 50 people during an afternoon concert.
Eight teams participated in the Amazing Scavenger Hunt, which had members busy collecting items and answering brain teasers. The winners were Team Pixie who won Kag Bucks, which can be redeemed at local businesses.
Sounds of motorcycle riders taking part in Ride Manitoulin along with three stops in the Manitoulin Art Tour (Edwards Studios and Art Gallery, 4elements Living Arts and Patti Gordon at her home studio at Aberlour Farm Studio) reminded all festival goers just how vibrant and welcoming this village is.
One business owner referred to Summer Fest as “a magical day,” referring in part to the large number of happy people she saw throughout the day. Plans are already underway for next year’s event. More information visit www.facebook.com/kagawong1.
