A Country Christmas Remembered ... the Scoop

Your Passport is your ticket to all events* and unlimited Horse Drawn Wagon rides for a full weekend of fun (*Turkey Dinner excepted)
A Country Christmas Remembered − December 6 to 8, 2013

The heritage village of Spencerville invites you back for the 9th annual family festival A Country Christmas Remembered, December 6 to 8.

Travel back in time ~ Favourite activities include the Starlight Parade, Breakfast with Santa, the Children’s Shopping Emporium and Santa's Workshop with its model railway display, crafts and face painting. A Horse Drawn Wagon to get you around. The Christmas Country Market is better than ever and fireworks are back following the Friday night parade. Family Weekend Passport $15; single $5. For details, visit www.acountrychristmas.ca

"Living History" is embraced in Spencerville during A Country Christmas Remembered festivities. As a small community, folks come together to reflect on the values of the past and appreciate the coming together in the present. In the 1930's folks depended on one another to survive the harsh winter months. People had to help on another especially when times were tough. This special event takes people back to simpler times.

I talked with Sandra Ketchum from the committee who told me about the importance of this special event! Without the economic base, small villages have difficulty surviving. This event encourages and helps keep the community together with a great volunteer base, community contributions; and creates excitement of a great achievement as A Country Christmas Remembered as it runs strong into this 9^th year.

The committee encourages the young kids and teens to take part by contributing with volunteering. There is a lot they can contribute, from assisting decorating, to social media (like Skype, Facebook, tweeting) and much more. By volunteering kids today can gain insight about festivals and events, learn about the importance of volunteering, learn to work as a team, gain experience; add to their high school volunteer community hours and add to their live experiences. They don’t necessarily have to just “help”; Sandra tells me they can take their ideas and make them happen as a team.

A community such as Spencerville has many business support from such folks at the Hands Fireworks down the way in Prescott ~ Canada's original fireworks company. We are Canada's oldest manufacturer of family and display fireworks, with a legacy dating back to 1873. This will be their 3^rd year in a row donating the fireworks for this special event! The Hubbard & Co. is a highly skilled team of construction and restoration specialists serving clients throughout eastern Ontario since 1981. They provide the space and ambiance in the upstairs building to host the volunteer appreciation night.

As a key component to successful event, Sandra Ketchum tells me they provide a Volunteer Appreciation Evening to just prior to the event taking place. They show a slide presentation letting the volunteers see a glimpse of all the activities taking place and what to expect. The volunteers are also provided with free passports, which encourage everyone to attend and participate.  A Country Christmas Remembered knows the importance of volunteers and the true contribution from all community supports. Whether sponsors, in-kind donations or the volunteers and committee members themselves.

Looking back to the 1930’s A Country Christmas Remembered festivities offers country food and a community sense of fun and time to reflect on the values of days gone by. This Christmas celebration is not commercial and offers all kinds of old fashioned values.

Your Passport is your ticket to all events* and unlimited Horse Drawn Wagon rides for a full weekend of fun (*Turkey Dinner excepted)

Family Passport $15

2 adults and 3 children under 16

Single Passport $5

A Country Christmas Remembered − December 6 to 8, 2013

Check out their website for all the fun details, times and activities.

Hope to see you there! Happy Holidays! Happy Season!

St. Lawrence Parks ~ “The jewel of the St. Lawrence Parks system” ~ 1000 Island Parkway

St. Lawrence Parks Commission ~ Brown's Bay

Ontario Visited ~ Judi McWilliams
enjoying day at Brown's Bay
St. Lawrence Parks 

During our travels this summer, it occurred to Gary & I that there is still so much to do, see, experience and enjoy throughout the St. Lawrence Parks. Part of the adventure is “getting there”. While travelling to Fort Henry in Kingston then on to Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, we enjoyed the St. Lawrence Parks as we drove along the heart of the majestic Thousand Islands and at the foot of the towering Ivy Lea Suspension Bridge. This jewel of the St. Lawrence Parks system offers 150 campsites and four cabins set amid the granite and greenery of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve. It was so calm and relaxing we had a hard time continuing on, but excitement ahead spurred us on.

Brown's Bay Park ~ Part way along the 1000 Island Parkway, lies the Brown's Bay Park area. It's amazing that I had never noticed it before. I had passed it several times during our numerous journeys along the Parkway. Fortunately this trip we did notice it and ventured in for a look. We are glad that we did and have earmarked it as a place to visit again and to spend much more time there (with perhaps a picnic lunch!) To discover more about the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, please check out their website at http://www.parks.on.ca/index.cfm/en/home. Enjoy your travels!

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo ~ Volunteers ~ Key to Success!

Ontario Visited Interview with Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA

 

Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County … interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA …“THE INSIDE SCOOP” continues …

VOLUNTEERS … The Key to Success! …..

For many festivals and events, it is critical to have volunteers! For the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo Volunteers are critical. I asked Ms. Govier is she could tell us about their volunteer program. I was not surprised to learn that Virginia herself is an IPM volunteer, as well as an OPA staff member. Virginia tells us that from 1,000 to 1,300+ volunteers dedicate their time to the IPM. There is great structure to what they offer. The IPM has volunteers sign up with commitment forms and tells us that the IPM has traditionally been lucky with the success rate of these folks pulling through. Ms. Govier says now they often have waiting lists for volunteers to come on board.

Ms. Virginia Govier says “Koodo’s to the local committees by talking it up early”. These folks seem to know the benefits of the IPM coming to their community brings. The IPM offers a training program for all volunteers. They break down into focus groups where you can volunteer in an area of interest to you. (Such as parking, ticket taking and so much more). The benefits to the volunteers come in recognition of varying levels. They have a fun after event BBQ, and if volunteers contribute over 6 hours, they receive a pass to the IPM for a day for free, some committees receive boxed lunch for long hours contributed and more. The IPM uses great identifiable vests during the event for the volunteers. She tells us that it helps to keep cool as they can “breath”, if warmer clothing is needed, and you can layer up and then put the vest on. (Don’t quote me here, but I’m sure the IPM team will be glad to enlighten you about their program).

The fact is the IPM does have a Volunteer Training Program and a Volunteer Recognition Program. Virginia says it is most important to remember to thanks the volunteers! Ms. Virginia Govier tells me that they are lucky as the volunteers from the robust rural community are amazing to work with. It’s the old “help out your neighbours” system. There doesn’t seem to be a needed “trade-off” as in major centers where some volunteers might “expect something in return”. The Rural community, Virginia says, is very giving, dedicated and generous with their time, efforts and contributions. I would have to say that through Ontario Visited experiences this year, I humbly agree, rural folks are amazing, hard working dedicated people. As Ontario Visited says, Festivals and Events are the core of our communities. Without these amazing volunteers our communities would not continue to thrive.

Come Celebrate with us at the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County. Check out the IPM website at (LINK).

Don’t forget your good walking shoes and some sunscreen!

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo ~ Keeping it Fresh!

Ontario Visited interview with Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA

Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County … interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA …“THE INSIDE SCOOP” continues …

KEEPING IT FRESH …..

Even being a “Fresh New Event” each year, the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo  still needs to “keep things fresh” for participants and visitors. As Ontario Visited wrote in our article, the signage and map are key to assisting with the enjoyment of your day. Virginia tells us that this year one of many new features to enhance the IPM; Buskers will be wandering throughout the IPM along with additional benches and seating areas for visitors to rest. They do offer great amenities such at the ATM, a people mover, great parking and shuttle assistance. Ms. Govier says that you can reserve (at NO cost) scooters to assist if mobility is a challenge. Just be sure to Reserve ahead of time to not miss out. They are going to enhance the signage also to assist with getting around. I understand there will also be some great Souvenirs to purchase to commomorate the exciting 100^th year! Don’t forget to purchase something special, who knows, maybe in 100 years from now these souvenirs will be “antique collectibles”. Check out the IPM website at (LINK). Stayed tuned for more “SCOOP” …

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo ~ Maximizing your Efforts ~ Synergy

Ontario Visited interview withVirginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA  

Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County … interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA …“THE INSIDE SCOOP” continues …

MAXIMIZING YOUR EFFORTS …. SYNERGY …..

The International Plowing Match & Rural Expo stays “fresh” and exciting both for participants and visitors alike. It continues to be interesting as a new event and it makes it easier for folks to embrace.

I wondered about how the IPM coming into a community with conflicting dates would impact the other events being held at the same time. Virginia Govier was enthusiastic to share with us that the OPA and IPM are proud to work closely with the other events. They try to create a good synergy amongst the groups to maximize everyone’s efforts. To explain more, planning for the IPM takes place 3 years in advance of the event. Bids are sent out by the Local Plowing Branches to Bid for the opportunity to host the IPM. The nucleolus of the Board springs from that and committees are formed. The great contribution from the OPA is that it brings along qualified staff and shares the efforts of the accounting, marketing, and sponsorship committees. They offer great guidance and strategies. Virginia tells me there are manuals that detail items that cover all kinds of questions, from budgets, to security detail, to what to and what not to do.

The biggest challenge Ms. Govier states, is not the “moving around”, but the new management structure. There are always some growing pains; people have pre-conceived ideas, new concepts. But, Virginia says, the synergy that can be created can go a long way for both groups, from the development framework the OPA has in place. Specifically, an example of the framework is the sponsorship program. There are set levels for sponsorship dollars obtained, in the signage the sponsor would receive to the number of gate tickets for the event. From major sponsorship to smaller, there are strategies in place to “not block out” anyone and give fare value for fare contributions. They have tools in place to help guide the organizers to juggle even the marketing structure.  Check out the IPM website at (LINK). Stayed tuned for more “SCOOP” …

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo ~ Impact in your Community ~ Importance in our Society Today

Ontario Visited interview with
Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA

Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County … interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA …“THE INSIDE SCOOP” continues …

IMPACT in your COMMUNITY     ….. IMPORTANCE of the IPM in our Society Today! …..

I asked Ms. Govier, just how important is the “International Plowing Match & Rural Expo” and how does it impact your community today? Otherwise stated … Why do you think International Plowing Match & Rural Expo is an important part of our society and the community today and what role do you see as its importance? With enthusiasm Virginia shares … Besides contributing to their Mandate, as discussed above, the IPM helps generate $500,000 - $1 Million dollars in Revenues. The OPA and the Local IPM committee split the profits, and, that money is donated directly back, into the community, and into the ongoing pursuits of the OPA association. There are 48 local Plowing Matches held in communities each year with the culmination of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo held each year in different communities across Ontario each year.

I asked Virginia Govier what challenges occurred with moving the location each year and how they overcame same. I was surprised by her response. Virginia believes that many festivals and events and fairs can get “burn out”. The “fairs” and local long time associations are being “squeezed” by new festivals, music and sports events included. All sorts of not-for-profit organizations are trying to get the space, location, visitors, sponsorships, donations, etc.

The big advantage for the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo is what they contribute to a community. They bring in the revenues as discussed above. Ms. Govier also tells us that studies show 10-15 million in added to the local the economic benefits through jobs, purchases made in hotels, restaurants, shops, and more. Check out the IPM website at (LINK). Stayed tuned for more “SCOOP” …

The @ PerfectWknds Travel Report Web Series ~ Interview with Jason & Joanne

Jason & Joanne Read Over Script

Ontario Visited ~ Judi & Gary McWilliams
The @ PerfectWknds Travel Report Web Series
Jason & Joanne

The INSIDE SCOOP of THE SCOOP… Jason and Joanne, hosts of Kawarthas Northumberland land of 1000 perfect weekends, The @ PerfectWknds Travel Report Web Series is a MUST SEE! If a picture says a thousand words, these short, fun, comedic web clips will enlighten both your hearts and your minds. If you didn’t know what potential adventures lay ahead in the Kawarthas Northumberland Region, you will soon. The Kawarthas Northumberland Region invites you to “Join hosts Jason & Joanne, as they set out on a 13-week, wild, wacky and always wonderful tour of the region’s best: birding, boating, butter tarts, beer culture and many other things that may not begin with the letter B.  Watch @PerfectWknds Travel Report every Tuesday on CHEX TV during the 5 o’clock Show, and right here on demand every Monday. The fun begins now!” I invite you to stay tuned to THE INSIDE SCOOP, where we had the fun of interviewing Jason and Joanne behind the scenes at the Peterborough Musicfest, and learn the real SCOOP about their adventures and so much more. In the meantime, check out @PerfectWknds Travel Report and the Kawarthas Northumberland Region website at (http://kawarthasnorthumberland.ca/)

“Weather can bring out the best in people!” The Kawarthas Northumberland Region is a great place to explore and visit... The Festival Nomad and I are experienced “event goers” … we of all people should have been prepared for the wet weather. Sometimes we get so excited to “get going” we ourselves forget the essentials.  During a recent visit to the Peterborough Musicfest, the “rains” came down just before the concert, but broke away just in time. The “seats”, however, were soaked. I was so surprised by the generosity of the people in the crowds who shared their towels for us to dry our seats. The rains didn’t stop the avid fans of the Rolling Stones Cover group “Hot Rocks”. Don’t miss out on the rest of the Peterborough Musicfest Season, check their website out at (www.ptbomusicfest.ca). 

International Plowing Match & Rural Expo ~ RV Park, your way to fun at the IPM

Ontario Visited interview with Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA

Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County … interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA …“THE INSIDE SCOOP” continues …

RV PARK …your way to fun at the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo

Virginia tells us that the RV Park for 2013 is already ¾ booked. As a matter of fact, Virginia told me that many of the visitors have attended the IPM for the last 20 years, travelling to each RV Park. The Brochures for 2014 will be available at this year September Expo and many book right then and there for the next year. Rumour has it that 2014 will take place in Ivy, just outside of Barrie and 2015 in Finch, Stormont County, and Ottawa way.

From the IPM website we learn … “Tented City will be located at the corner of Perth Line 36 and Perth Road 160 on Nulandia Farms at the northeast edge of Mitchell, Ontario for five amazing days September 17 - 21, 2013 when the country's largest outdoor show comes to Perth County. Help us celebrate our rural past and experience the excitement of emerging opportunities for agriculture and for our communities. Plowing competitions for all ages including a Queen of the Furrow Competition will be held.

There will be something for everyone at the IPM: 900 acres of exhibits and activities, the giant tented city with more than 500 exhibitors and vendors; antiques, education, and country lifestyle displays; including entertainment for all ages. There will be a 1500 site RV park across the road from the Tented City. Opportunities to see the latest in farm machinery and new technologies, environmental exhibits, will keep visitors busy. The Plowing competitions are also a highlight for visitors. You will be able to purchase souvenirs marking the 100th anniversary of the International Plowing Match. Check out the IPM website at (LINK). Stayed tuned for more “SCOOP” …

The NEW Fort Henry Experience

Don't Miss Out 

Sunset Ceremony Mascot

St. Lawrence Parks Commission
Director of Corporate Marketing & Development
Bryan Mercer & Ontario Visited Gary McWilliams

The NEW Fort Henry Experience ~ Ontario Visited was fortunate to travel back to Fort Henry to meet the St. Lawrence Parks Commission's Director of Corporate Marketing & Development, Bryan Mercer. We were at the Fort to learn more about the great changes that had been made. This was our first experience of Fort Henry’s new “TRADE SQUARE”. All the artisans "displaying" in the Trade Square were extremely talented and were quite willing to share their knowledge and experiences with us. Of course, we needed sustenance, and we were serenaded by Tourism of Kingston’s Rob Carnegie, Director of Tourism Marketing & Development while we enjoyed a delicious BBQ on the patio at the Fort. As quoted by Bryan Mercer … “Put Fort Henry on your plate… 200 seat patio with a million dollar view”. After a fabulous diner, we were treated new "SUNSET CEREMONY". I must say that the new version is quite spectacular! There is still time to enjoy the amazing Sunset Ceremony at Fort Henry in Kingston … it is definitely a “must see”! You will be completely amazed by the 3D video wall projection during the “drills” of the soldiers. It really takes your breath away, moves your heart and soul.

Battle of Crysler's Farm ~ we had stayed overnight in Brockville and travelled the next morning to Morrisburg and Upper Canada Village. It was time for the Battle of Crysler's Farm! Our visit to Upper Canada Village and The Battle of Crysler’s Farm was outstanding! We were surprised to discover their new “Discovery Centre”. It is interactive, informative, and fun! It is so unique and we feel all that “kids” young and old will really enjoy! The battle re-enactment was amazing! Hundreds of re-enactors portrayed what happened at one of the many skirmishes that place of the farm between the British and Canadians and the Americans. This year's re-enactment included one of the Tall Ships. More about the battle, with photos, will be posted soon. To discover more about the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, please check out their website at http://www.parks.on.ca/index.cfm/en/home. Enjoy your travels!

Upper Canada Village ~ August Must See’s ~ “Food Lovers Field Day” & “Horse Lovers Weekend”

In the Dark ~ Discovery Centre ~ Upper Canada Village

Interactive ~ Discovery Centre ~ Upper Canada Village

Upper Canada Village ~ August Must See’s ~ “Food Lovers Field Day” & “Horse Lovers Weekend”

Our visit to Upper Canada Village and The Battle of Crysler’s Farm was outstanding! We were surprised to discover their “Discovery Centre”. It is interactive, informative, and fun! It is so unique and we feel all “kids” young and old will really enjoy! Don’t forget to join in at Upper Canada Village for their “Food Lovers Field Day” weekend August 17-18. “Food lovers will have a “field day” sampling and shopping in an outdoor farmers’ market, all located in the fairground field found in the heart of Upper Canada Village!  Also at the end of August is Upper Canada Village “Horse Lovers Weekend”, August 31 – September 31. Enjoy the many heavy horses and light driving horses which are being showcased by their owners throughout the weekend.  Marvel at the traditional horse-related skills demonstrated by Village staff and the ingenious ways horses were used in the 19^th century”. Stay tuned for articles, photos and interviews to come with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey to these wonderful destinations! To discover more about the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, please check out their website at http://www.parks.on.ca/index.cfm/en/home. Enjoy your travels!

International Plowing Match & Rural Expos ~ 100 Years of Success

Ontario Visited interview with
Virginia Govier,  Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA

Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County … interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA

100 years of Success!

Ontario Visited is pleased to share my exciting interview with Ms. Virginia Govier, Marketing Co-ordinator of the Ontario Plowmen’s Association, OPA for the “THE INSIDE SCOOP” about the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo.

For those of you who have never had the pleasure of visiting the yearly International Plowing Match & Rural Expo, Ontario Visited has two great articles posted on our website from previous visits. These articles will walk you through our journey and give you some insight as to what you might expect to experience yourself. (Please see LINK to view articles). The Ontario Plowmen’s Association Parent Host of the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo this September 17-21, 2013 in Mitchell Ontario, Perth County. Check out the IPM website at (LINK).

From the OPA’s great website we learn …“The OPA is the parent host of the International Plowing Match and Rural Expo (IPM). Each year the OPA partners with a local plowing association to organize and host the IPM. The International Plowing Match and Rural Expo is a sanctioned member of the North American Farm Show Council. As such, it maintains the highest standards set by the council.

The organization of a provincial Association in 1911 gave life to branches all across the province.  The numbers grew until today we have 48 local plowing groups affiliated with the parent body: the Ontario Plowmen's Association (OPA). The OPA has a board of directors, representing Branch Associations, with membership varying in size from Branch to Branch. Each local association holds a yearly local plowing match.”

Virginia Govier tells us that part of the OPA Mandate includes creating and raising awareness and understanding of agriculture. One way OPA does this is through hosting the annual International Plowing Match & Rural Expo. This event encompasses the historical aspect of the Plowing through the generations, as well as providing a platform to present the newest innovations and technology to the visitors to the Expo. Their goal is also to educate the community, both for Rural and Urban visitors alike. The demographics of the Expo stay quite consistent with about 60% retired and Rural visitors, although they do try to attract Urban visitors. The OPA and IPM participants have a platform where their sense of pride resonates as they exemplify their knowledge and experiences. As a visitor, the Expo gives you an opportunity to learn what you would not necessarily know, an “eye opener” as Ontario Visited experienced. As the Expo is held during the week visitors often come for a family experience on the Saturday. Check out the IPM website at (LINK). Stayed tuned for more “SCOOP” …

ALIVE in FIVE Strategy ~ St. Lawrence Parks Commission ~ Fort Henry ~ Will Baird

www.forthenry.com

Will Baird, Manager, Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks Commission

www.parks.on.ca

Ontario Visited interview Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks continues …

“Alive in Five” strategy …

In keeping up with what is relevant in consumer consumption, innovative plans are in place at Fort Henry. The revitalization of the Fort is all part of an “Alive in Five” strategy the St. Lawrence Parks Commission’s mantra to become financially self-sufficient within five years.

What that means to you, the visitor, and consumer … “The upper fort now will be free for the public too enter”… “Waiting for new visitors is a wooden deck that spans the inside walls and offers an unparalleled view of Lake Ontario and the Royal Military College. Tables and chairs for more than 100 people will be added where they can sample light dishes and beverages. Some of the rooms that line the upper fort, formerly offices, will be turned over to vendors who will turn each one into a craft room. Tables will also be set up on the upper parade square, now to be called The Trade Square, to hold more items. The market will run from Sunday May 12, through September 14. “At any given time as long as the fort is open, you will be able to walk in there, free of admission charges, and go and browse the shops”. This area will be a permanent little artisan market that includes jewelry, sculpture, paintings, glassware and other crafts made from natural materials.

This will represent the first time, in a very long time, that people will be able to get into the upper fort for free. The Fort will be keeping up with what’s relevant to the consumer today; they are on a continuous venture to keep the fort alive and current with the market.  There are a lot of folks who haven’t been to the Fort before or don’t understand what it is even. The Fort feels that if they can get the people out with a new offering, then chances are they will stay to see the real project.

Along with The Trade Square, and Sunset Ceremonies, some things you might not expect at the Fort... a concert series that will appeal to a wider demographic than usual plus two new athletic events... a triathlon at the end of the summer, and a “Spartan adventure-type race” will take place in the grounds and participants will climb walls and challenge themselves through obstacles.

The Fort hopes that they will inject a lot of life into the Fort that is centered on their core product. They are hopeful to attract a whole new audience to the facility while helping the local economy as participants and visitors will stay in area hotels, dine, shop, and have fun. The Fort Henry website is fresh and new as well. (Please see them at LINK) It is easy to map your way through and see all the exciting events, changes, plans the Fort has waiting for you!

Ontario Visited highly recommends you join in the fun and be a part of History …. “Reflection of our past …. Hope for our Future”!

Please check out Fort Henry website at (LINK) for the Sunset Ceremony details; Upper Canada Village at (LINK) and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission at (LINK).

EDUTAINMENT ~ Looking towards the Future ~ St. Lawrence Parks Commission ~ Fort Henry ~ Will Baird

www.forthenry.com

Will Baird, Manager, Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks Commission

www.parks.on.ca

“EDUTAINMENT” … Looking towards the future …

Ontario Visited is extremely excited to be working this year the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, including Upper Canada Village and Fort Henry. For me, this past week was truly enlightening and encouraging, as I had the privilege of interview Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry - St. Lawrence Parks Commission who shared some of his “Edutainment... Educating while Entertaining"!

“Edutainment business” as Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry tell men is what visitors will take away from their experience of this 1860’s historical representation. The hopes are that visitors will take away some excitement from the past. Exciting messages help will ingrain the learning experience into an entertaining experience providing knowledge and insight along the way. Fort Henry will be present in a more realistic re-enactment, recreating history in the first person. Mr. Baird tells me …The more realistic to your audience the more they will take away.

Stay tuned for my upcoming Blogs, Articles and Newsletters. In the meantime, please check out Fort Henry website at (LINK) for the Sunset Ceremony details; Upper Canada Village at (LINK) and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission at (LINK).

I Love My Job ~ St. Lawrence Parks Commission ~ Fort Henry ~ Will Baird

www.forthenry.com

Will Baird, Manager, Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks Commission

www.parks.on.ca

Ontario Visited interview Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks continues …

“I love my JOB!” … Being Passionate about History & Your Job!

Can you image going to a job, work every day and loving it! Ontario Visited is my job, my work, my passion and I love every day! I get many opportunities to interview many interesting, knowledgeable leaders, organizers and experts in the industry. I get to engage in enlightening conversations and learn so much that most people never get a glimmer of. I was excited to hear Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry - St. Lawrence Parks Commission talk about his passion and love for his job and history. I asked him if he was worried about the “changes” and he states that he “thrives on change” and he “loves the process of change”! Will tells me that Fort Henry is changing; the overall direction of the business, an entire new way to look at the future. Mr. Baird goes on to say the Fort Henry is looking to the communities, private large venues, other museums, historical sites, and more to see the opportunities that Fort Henry can draw on for inspiration. Will’s motivation and enthusiasm each and every day comes from his passion! Will has passion for history, passion for people, and passion for change. He compared the stresses of another types of job, such as a Police Officer, or Doctors where one could assume the stress levels would be there often, he does not feel stressed. Baird tells me he is in a position to create and change while still sharing history. What a great opportunity. Going to work every day, Mr. Baird still needs to deal with what he calls the mundane stuff, like e-mails, correspondence, then the rest of the day he engages with others in development, research, and the ongoing pursuits to enhance the visitor experience at Fort Henry.

Stay tuned for my upcoming Blogs, Articles and Newsletters. In the meantime, please check out Fort Henry website at (LINK) for the Sunset Ceremony details; Upper Canada Village at (LINK) and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission at (LINK).

Controversy ... St. Lawrence Parks Commission ~ Fort Henry ~ Will Baird

www.forthenry.com

Will Baird, Manager, Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks Commission

www.parks.on.ca

Ontario Visited interview Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry, St. Lawrence Parks continues …

Controversy … Historians, artifacts, accuracy …

Mr. Will Baird, Manager of Fort Henry - St. Lawrence Parks Commission, talked to me today about one of my favorite topics … authenticity, accuracy and the controversy that may occur between true historians and re-enactors, re-enactments. I have had the privilege of interviewing re-enactors, history teachers, Ministers of Heritage and Official Languages, Historians and more. Today, Mr. Baird gave me a very enlightening view. Will tells us that the proper portrayal of facts is of utmost importance and should not be misinterpreted. This can happen easily, he tells me. While portraying traditions you can get caught up in the delivery of the message. The message, however, needs to be transferred effectively.

Mr. Baird goes on to say … that it not necessarily how the message is passed on, but, that it is passed on! Will states … people can get caught up a lot in their efforts to be 100% accurate. He himself states that this happens to him. He says that there can be cohesiveness’ between the reality of interpretation and true history enthusiasts.

Fort Henry’s core business is to preserve millions of dollars of artifacts. Will Baird says that it is Fort Henry’s goal to preserve the core, but, they can spread the word, pass on the historical messages by engaging people. It is very important to not tread on people emotions and to always respect the values of true historians. It is important to value their connection. There is a museum management program in place, of course, to prevent deterioration. However, Fort Henry’s new strategies are in place to encourage youth and visitors alike to embrace history. Mr. Baird says, and I agree, if you don’t share the history, how will it be preserved and learned by? Perhaps how you engage our ever changing society and cultural world today is the key to the continuation of history. As I quote often, “Reflection of our past …. Hope for our Future”!

Stay tuned for my upcoming Blogs, Articles and Newsletters. In the meantime, please check out Fort Henry website at (LINK) for the Sunset Ceremony details; Upper Canada Village at (LINK) and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission at (LINK).