Councillor McCann Meeting Report (May 20, 2025)
West Parry Sound Community Support Services Grand Re-Opening in New Location
On Friday morning, May 9, 2025, I attended the West Parry Sound Community Support Services Grand Re-Opening in their new location, 60 James Street, in the heart of downtown Parry Sound. The agency is excited about this new location which is bigger, brighter and more convenient and accessible for the public. With the extra square footage, staff will be planning new programs. Executive Director Linda Taylor spoke and welcomed everyone. Our M.P.P. Graydon Smith also addressed the attendees. This was followed by an official ribbon cutting ceremony. Throughout the grand re-opening, there was live entertainment and refreshments were served. People had an opportunity to tour the new facility. There was a wonderful turnout.
Belvedere Heights Sod Turning Event
Following the West Parry Sound Community Support Services grand re-opening, we headed up Belvedere Hill to Belvedere Heights Long Term Care Home for the official Sod Turning Event commemorating the addition of 22 modern long-term care beds. John Jordan, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Long-Term Care spoke to those in attendance. He was followed by Graydon Smith, MPP, Parry Sound-Muskoka who also spoke.
Parry Sound Public Library Board Meeting
On Wednesday morning, May 14, 2025, I attended the Parry Sound Public Library Board Meeting in person. Regarding correspondence, we learned that at the Township of The Archipelago’s March Committee of the Whole Meeting, there was discussion on the concerning trend of book bands occurring in parts of the United States. To that, the Township sent a letter to the Parry Sound Public Library CEO, staff and Board expressing its encouragement in learning about the library's policies on intellectual freedom and its strong commitment to ensuring access to all expressions of thought, belief, opinion and expression. The letter went on to commend Parry Sound Public Library for upholding this core value, particularly at a time when it is being challenged elsewhere. There was a great deal of discussion over security issues, in particular, unwanted activity occurring in the fire escape dugout off from the auditorium. The Board has learned that it would be prudent, if successful in receiving a NOHFC grant, if we put together a plan to upgrade the hall along with the exit. This is the direction now being followed by staff. We received financial reports, the CEO report, followed by a review of upcoming programs. All programs for youth, adults and families can be reviewed online at https://www.parrysoundlibrary.com.
The Alan Jackson Experience at the Charles W. Stockey Centre
On Friday evening, May 16, 2025, my wife and I attended the Alan Jackson Experience at the Charles W. Stockey. Aaron Halliday, head of the band, did a wonderful job of imitating Alan Jackson! Along with his five-piece band they sounded just about as close to Alan as possible. The concert was very well received and enjoyed by the well number of guests in attendance.
Summer is Here in the Playland
This past weekend folks in Parry Sound, as well as nationwide celebrated the Victoria Day Holiday Weekend! The town and in fact the whole area were busy and active. It was a pleasure to see many visitors and summer residents here whether to relax, camp, enjoy family, or open the cottage. This weekend has always been very typical and very much anticipated as the beginning of the summer season. Back in my CKLP FM days you may recall we aired a series of announcements, titled, "Summer's here now!" That was most evident this weekend. It's great to welcome back our seasonal visitors and residents!
