Halloween was a wet, cold and windy night this year. Fortunately we weren’t subjected to that dreaded four letter word snow, that some locales to the east of us saw that day. Sunday, October 25 was a much better day and thanks to Colleen, Natalie, Amanda and the group of volunteers who helped, over 50 youngsters had a fantastic early Halloween party at the community centre. There were games and crafts and of course pumpkin carving which they got to take home. The Elmvale and District Food Bank were also benefactors of the event as due to the generosity of those who attended, a great load of donations were received. Thank you to all who participated and made it a special day.
Many from the community have used the community sign board on Wilson Drive. Birthdays, anniversaries, community events all have been posted on the sign over the years. Like the old post office saying, neither sleet nor snow nor rain shall delay the delivery of messages. The sign has been a beacon for announcements for all to see. For over five years, Roslyn has posted those messages without fail. After much deliberation Roslyn has made the difficult decision to step away from those duties. Roslyn has made a significant contribution to the community by looking after the sign and the entire community is thankful for her support. She isn’t going anywhere and has already started to make plans for next year’s craft and food fair. If you see her around send her your thanks.
The sign usage supports our community events when it is booked. Monies collected are used to help offset the expenses for events like the Easter Eggstravaganza, movie nights and our Christmas in the Village. The Anten Mills Community Recreation Association will need someone to help with the sign. This could be simply changing the sign as there is the possibility of another person looking after the administration. If you or someone you know might be interested and would like more details, please contact me either on Messenger or by email, antenmills1@gmail.com and we can discuss the needs.
Next Tuesday, November 11 is Remembrance Day. The day that we take the time to remember those who gave their lives for the freedom we have today and to those who serve our country. There are two services held on November 11 in Springwater. The Royal Canadian Legion holds one at the cenotaph in Elmvale by the library. A group of community minded volunteers in conjunction with the Beausoleil First Nations and Ontario Parks hold one at Springwater Provincial Park. Located in the valley in the park there is a cenotaph that was erected after WW1. When the park was under construction, most of the workers were veterans who served during the war. It was these veterans who wanted to remember the “Vespra Boys” who did not return home to their families and constructed the cenotaph. Twenty nine men from across Vespra Township went to Europe and did not return home. During WW2, ten men suffered the same fate and their families lost a loved one. Their sacrifice was not in vain as we have the freedoms that they fought so bravely for. If it is all possible, attend a Remembrance Day service. We should never forget the sacrifices made. Both services will begin at 10:45 AM. There is no park admission fee on the 11th. As well help support the Poppy Fund by donating and wearing a poppy. When the service at one of the cenotaphs is over, take your poppy and place it on a wreath to demonstrate your appreciation for those who served.
If you have travelled north on Wilson Dr coming into the village you will have noticed that the township has installed a speed radar sign. The speed limit reduces to 50 kilometres an hour just south of Pinery. Oftentimes walkers are seen crossing into or out of the county forest from the side streets making so following the speed limit increases the safety for everyone.
For a number of years now, the County of Simcoe has operated a very successful transit service. The buses run hourly and travel along County Rd 27 through Elmvale and Midhurst as well along Hwy 26. The bus routes do not include either Anten Mills or Minesing. Both communities have youth and seniors who could benefit from the bus making a stop in our neighborhood. Believe it or not, the next municipal election is less than one year away, being held on October 26, 2025. While potential candidates are exploring their options, they may be looking for your input. Having regular bus service is something that should be discussed particularly with those who are seeking either the position of Mayor or Deputy Mayor as they are also members of Simcoe County Council.
With Halloween and Thanksgiving over, many homes decorate for the winter season. South Springwater Fire Fighters want to help out and again this year they are offering for sale fresh and locally sourced greenery for planters and urns. The firefighters will be at the Anten Mills Community Centre and the Midhurst library on Sunday, November 16. Good sized bunches of greenery will be for sale for $20 from 10AM until they are sold out. Proceeds from this sale are used by the firefighters association to support their charity work. At the end of the month they will have Christmas trees for sale and details will be provided soon.
It may seem soon but it’s just over one month away. Now is the time to start planning for the Anten Mills CRA, Christmas in the Village. The 11th Tree Lighting will be on Saturday, December 13 and the 28th annual Santa Claus parade is Sunday, December 14. Parade entries are welcome and if you want more information about either event you can send an email to antenmillschristmas@gmail.com. Watch the Anten Mills Community Bulletin Facebook page for updates.
That’s it for this week, THANKS for READING, BE WELL and STAY SAFE.
