Current Newsletter:

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
August 2008 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be on Sunday, August 31st from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Community Centre. Come out and enjoy an all you can eat breakfast of pancakes, french toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with real maple syrup and more. Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds will go to support Golden Age, Recreation and Fire Team projects.   Plant and Bulb Sale: The garden club will hold its annual plant and bulb sale on Sunday, August 31st during the community breakfast starting at 8:00 a.m. This is a great way to get good quality inexpensive plants. If you have plants to donate, please bring them to the sale or drop them off with one of the members of the garden club. For more information, contact Seija Bailey (282 8108) or Carol Lang (282 2782).   Recreation Committee Report: The next meeting of the Recreation Committee will be Wednesday, August 27th at 7:30 p.m. at the Community Centre. Everyone is welcome.   Burpee Mills Family Picnic: Join us for some family fun at the Burpee Mills Community Centre. Date: Sunday, August 10 Game Time: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.        Some challenging games have been planned for you and your children. Dinner: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. $5/person. Children under age 12 – free        Pig Roast – Meat and potatoes provided. Bring a salad or dessert. Dance: 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.        "Curly Tunes" will provide music. $5/person Contacts: Seija Bailey (282 8108) or Penny Palonen (282 1646)   Burpee Mills Recreational Golf Experience: Are you planning to take advantage of this opportunity to learn to golf? The sign-up list has been posted. On August 10, it will be removed and the participants’ names submitted to the Golf Course. This learning experience is free for Burpee Mills Residents and Landowners, their children, grandchildren and spouses. For more information, refer to the postings at the Gateway Restaurant, Taylor’s One Stop, and the Burpee Mills Municipal Centre. Gary Gilpin (282 3197) and Wayne Bailey (282 8108) are available to assist you. Don’t miss this activity sponsored by your recreational committee!!   Road Rally Report: The Road Rally was a huge success! Congratulations to the winners. Terri Noland, Kim Orford and Lowell Hall won first; Sharon Meeker, Zack Meeker, Darlene Orford and Terri Keller came second; Fred Noland and Ken Orford wound up in third place. Sandra Sampson and Virginia Matheson of the Lady Bugs won the best costume award. The “I got Lost Award” went to Barrett Wright and Julie Wright and passengers Dennis Blackburn and Sandy Moors. Clarence Wiseman and Mark Lamoureux are to be commended for their great cooking all afternoon. The beef supplied by Vic Noble was fantastic. Thanks to all of the organizers and to all who helped out in any way. Freda Hall sits with volunteer Delena Deeg at one of the stops at the Road Rally. Freda thoroughly enjoyed her afternoon of serenading.   Fire Team Report: Our fire department received its last emergency call on April 16. The volunteers wish to thank all residents for their cooperation in preventing fire emergencies. Like everyone else they would prefer to spend their summer days at home with their family and friends! Just a reminder for the summer people to ensure they have working smoke alarms in all those sleep camps and cottages where there are often little people and visitors present. Many of these camps have temporary lighting and heating devices, which could provide a source of ignition.   Council Report: There will be a regular meeting of municipal council on Wed., September 3rd at 7:30 p.m.

Archived Newsletters:

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
July 2008 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be on Sunday, July 13 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Community Centre. Come out and enjoy an all you can eat breakfast of pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with real maple syrup and more. Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds will go to support Golden Age, Recreation and Fire Team projects.   Recreation Committee Report: The next meeting of the Recreation Committee will be Wednesday, July 30 at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to bring new ideas.   Road Rally: The Road Rally is back! The date for this fun event will be Saturday, July 19. Line Up for the Road Rally at the Community Centre at 1:00 p.m. The Potluck Supper will start at 6:00 p.m. followed by and Out Door Dance with a live band. For more information and registration, call Mike or Lynda at 282-1589.   Family Picnic: Don’t forget to circle Sunday, August 10th on your calendar. It’s our summer picnic! Game time will be 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. and sure to be lots of fun for all. The dinner will be 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Pork roast and potatoes will be provided. Just bring a salad or dessert for potluck. After supper you can dance to music provided by Curly Tunes until 10:00 p.m. Dinner is $5:00 and the dance is $5:00. The cost is $10.00 for the whole day including dinner and dance. Children under 12 are free. Contacts: Seija 282-8108 or Penny 282-1646   Burpee Mills Recreational Golf Experience: You’re a resident of Burpee Mills? You want to golf? Our recreational golf experience is scheduled for Sept. 21/08 1:00–6:00 p.m. The green fee of $10.00/golfer will be donated by our Recreational Committee. Golf clubs, T’s, and golf balls will be provided for your use. All that is required is your enthusiastic participation. The sign-up list will be posted on the Burpee Mills Community Centre bulletin board prior to July 13. Registration “cut-off” will be August 10. The maximum number of inexperienced golfers accepted will be 40. Sign up now to participate in this wonderful recreational experience. More information will follow in the August newsletter. Contacts: Gary 282-3197 or Wayne 282-8108   Garden Club Report: Burpee Mills Heritage Garden Club members wish to thank the Golden Age Club for their generous donation for purchase of materials for the municipal gardens. We also greatly appreciate Mike Meeker’s donation of his Magic Mix to replenish the soil in preparation for new plantings. For everyone who assisted and supported our Community Yard Sale and Tea, we extend our deepest gratitude for helping to make it such a success.   Fire Team Report: All Fire Emergency Vehicles are required to obey the speed limit when responding to emergency calls. To prevent the vehicles from being delayed, all drivers are legally required to pull over to the right to clear the road. If the fire truck is coming from the opposite direction, the same rules apply. A fire will double in size every 30 to 60 seconds. An entire room can be in flames within three minutes. Smoke is the big killer, and moves at a rate of one metre every second. So when you hear those sirens and see those flashing lights, pull over and stop. You could save a life! On June 30 a 34-year-old man and two young children died in a fire in a trailer park in Essex, Ontario. It has been confirmed by the Office of the Fire Marshal investigators that no working smoke alarms were found in the trailer. As a result of this tragic fatal fire, the Fire Marshal of Ontario is urging everyone to have a working smoke alarm in their trailer home, motor home or other recreational vehicles. It is good practice to install working smoke alarms in any recreation vehicle, trailer and boat with sleeping quarters. Test the alarms monthly and after any absence of more than a few days. Replace any smoke alarms that may be more than 10 years old.   Hazardous Waste Day: Don’t forget the Hazardous Waste Day on Saturday, July 19th from 1:00-4:00 p.m. You can dispose of your household hazardous waste by taking them to the Household Hazardous Waste event at the Mindemoya Roads Building on 7 Lakeshore Rd. off Hwy 542/551. For more information on items accepted, check the bulletin board at the Community Centre and click here. Watch for ads in local newspapers.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on Wednesday, August 6 at 7:30 p.m.   Summer Student: Our summer student, Jenna Wiseman, will be available to assist in recreation activities at the complex from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Monday to Thursday in July and 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. in August. Jenna will also help the Recreation Committee for some of the events this summer.   Swimming Lessons: Swimming lessons will be available again in July. We live on an Island surrounded by water. Everyone should know how to swim. Register now at the municipal office.   Job Opportunity: Applications are being requested for the position of custodian for the Community Centre to do part time cleaning of the hall and office. Please submit applications to the municipal office.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
June 2008 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be on June 15th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Community Centre. Come out and enjoy an all you can eat breakfast of pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with real maple syrup and more. Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds will go to support Golden Age, Recreation and Fire Team projects.   Recreation Committee Report: It was agreed at the Recreation Committee meeting on Wednesday, April 31st that there would be benefits to having our volunteer groups co-ordinate their social events. The Recreation Committee will request that representatives from the Golden Age Club, Volunteer Fire Department, Fitness Centre, Garden Club, Cemetery Board, Council, as well as interested community members attend future meetings. The position of Vice-Chair is still open for a willing volunteer. The next meeting of the Recreation Committee will be on Wednesday, June 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Community Centre.   Rink: Members of the community are reminded that they are welcome to use municipal equipment to play games such as basketball in the community rink. However, please return the equipment to the storage containers provided, to prevent weather damage. Parents should be sure that children are supervised.   Burpee Mills Community Yard Sale & Tea: Date: Saturday, July 5th 2008, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Contact for Tables: Seija Bailey 282-8108, Carol Lang 282-2782, or Kathy Keenan 282-2900 Tables: Tables for display of sale items may be rented for $10:00 each. Set Up Displays: Set up Friday evening 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. or Saturday morning at 8:00 a.m. Items should be priced. Bartering is permitted. Coffee, Tea and Goodies will be available. Hosted by Burpee Mills Community Heritage Garden Club   Road Rally: The Road Rally is scheduled for July 19. More details will be available in the July newsletter.   Burpee Mills Summer Picnic: Date: Sunday, Aug. 10, 2008, 2:00 – 10:00 p.m. Game Time: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Dinner: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Pork Roast and potatoes will be provided. Bring a salad or dessert for potluck. Dance: 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Price: $10.00 for whole day. Kids under 12 are free. $ 5.00 for dinner only $ 5.00 for dance only Contacts: Seija Bailey 282-8108 or Penny Palonen 282-1646   Burpee Mills Recreational Golf Experience – Sept. 21/08: If you are a resident of Burpee Mills, this is an opportunity for you to experience an afternoon of golf at the Manitoulin Golf and Country Club. You will play 9 holes of golf, mentored by an experienced golfer. Your “green fees”, and required equipment will be provided under the sponsorship of the Burpee Mills Recreation Committee. Watch for more details in the July Newsletter. A sign-up list will be posted at the Burpee Mills Municipal Centre between July 13 and Aug. 10.   Fire Team Report: Burpee and Mills Fire Department will have a practice on Thursday June 19. Firefighters are encouraged to come out. We know we have an occurrence to attend to. We just don’t know when or where. WE MUST BE PREPARED!! The Office of the Fire Marshall is now preparing a daily report to all fire chiefs in the province, with details and causes. It is surprising just how many incidents there are.   Hazardous Waste Day: Start collecting your household hazardous waste. You can take them to the Household Hazardous Waste event on Saturday, July 19 from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Mindemoya Roads Building, 7 Lakeshore Rd. off Hwy 542/551.   Council Report: The next meeting of Municipal Council will be on Monday, July 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
May 2008 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be on Sunday, May 25th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Community Centre. Come out and enjoy an all you can eat breakfast of pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with real maple syrup and more. Cost is $8:00 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds will go to support Golden Age, Recreation and Fire Team projects.   Golden Age Club Report: The Golden Age Club held a general meeting on Thursday, April 24. After several years of service, President, Lenna Noland, and Secretary/Treasurer, Barb Harper, have stepped down. Their efforts over the years as leaders in the Golden Age Club are much appreciated. Penny Palonen agreed to serve as President along with Seija Bailey as Secretary/Treasurer. The five Directors on the executive include Tara Bailey, Fern Baker, Lloyd Baker, Barb Harper and Lenna Noland. A donation of $1000 was given to the Elizabeth Bay United Church to help pay for their roofing project. The Garden committee received $500 to pay for new soil and fertilizer for the community gardens. If you would like to become a member of the Golden Age Club you can call Seija Bailey at 282-8108.   Recreation Committee Report: Barrett Wright is now the Chairman of the Recreation Committee. The position of vice-chair is open for anyone who would like to join this enthusiastic group. Road Rally: The Road Rally is back by popular demand! It will be held on Saturday, July 19. Watch for details in the June Newsletter. Family Picnic: Sunday, August 10th is the date to mark on your calendar for the Burpee & Mills Family Picnic. Details to follow. Burpee & Mills Recreation Golf Experience: Residents of Burpee & Mills (12 yrs.+), here's an opportunity to experience an exciting day of golf under the mentorship of an experienced golfer. Check the evening of Sept. 14 on your calendar. Specific information with "sign-up" sheets will be posted at a later date. Dinner will be available after golfing. For more information call Gary (282-3197) or Wayne (282-8108).   Giant Community Garage Sale: The garden committee plans to hold a Community Garage Sale on Saturday, July 5 from 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If you are moving or downsizing, here’s a chance to unload your extra stuff. You can rent a table at the Community Centre for $10.00. Contact Seija Bailey (282-8108), Carol Lang (282-2782) or Kathy Keenan (282-2900) to reserve a table.   Volunteer Week: Volunteer week was April 27 to May 3. Our municipality is fortunate to have many enthusiastic volunteers who help with the many activities that make our municipality such a great place to live. They all deserve a big THANK YOU! Volunteers are the heart of our communities. Youth are the future of our communities. Students who would like to acquire more community hours, while getting involved with kids' programs at the Burpee & Mills Complex, should call Tara Bailey (282-0003) for more information. Let's plan to bring kids together while assisting students to complete their high school credits. We can look forward to planning more outdoor activities this season.   Fire Team Report: The next Fire team practice will be on Thursday, May 15, just before the long weekend.. With the warm temperatures returning it is time to get out the barbecue. Here are a few safety tips to consider. To get your barbecue ready for grilling season, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority recommends making this three-step safety check part of your spring-cleaning routine: 1. CLEAN: use a pipe cleaner or wire to make sure the burner ports are free of rust, dust, dirt, spider webs or other debris. 2. CHECK: examine the hose leading from the fuel supply to the burners. Replace if cracked or damaged. 3. TEST: find leaks by applying a 50/50 solution of water and dish soap to all fuel and hose connections. If bubbles appear, tighten the connections and/or replace the damaged parts and always re-test. Remember that barbecues are for outdoor use only. If used in an enclosed space, carbon monoxide – an odourless, colourless, poisonous gas – will gather and reach dangerous exposure levels, which can lead to serious health effects, or even death.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be held on Monday, June 2 at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
April 2008 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our first community breakfast of the year held on Sunday, April 6th was a great success! The next community breakfast will be on Sunday, May 25th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Community Centre. Come out and enjoy an all you can eat breakfast of pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with real maple syrup and more. Cost is $8:00 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. All proceeds will go to support Golden Age, Recreation and Fire Team projects   Fire Team Report: On Wednesday March 19, Burpee and Mills Fire Department hosted the Manitoulin Fire Fighter Association meeting. Our guest speaker was Ted Shannon, Fire Management Supervisor with the Ministry of Natural Resources. Our firefighters were presented with the does and don’ts in the event of a forest fire, if MNR resources were dispatched to our jurisdiction. Our next practice will be on Thursday April 17, at our hall, at 19:00 hours. Residents are reminded to obtain fire permits for burning as of April 1. You can get your permit at the municipal office or online at our website www.burpeemills.com. Always be careful when burning trash or brush. Be sure to notify one of the members on the fire team before you start your burning. Remember that the Municipality of Burpee and Mills DOES NOT permit the burning of grass. If a grass fire is lit and gets out of control the person responsible may be required to pay for the extinguishing of this fire.   Recreation Committee Report: The Recreation Committee will meet at the Community Centre on Wednesday, April 30th at 7:00 p.m. In future the recreation committee will meet on the last Wednesday of each month. Please come out and support this committee and help make the summer social events fun for all.   New Fitness Trainer: Billy Jim Merrylees is a certified personal trainer, sports hypnotist, fit phone coach, online personal trainer, and outdoor fitness trainer. He also has experience teaching cardio kickboxing. He has recently moved back to Evansville and will be volunteering his time and sharing his knowledge with members and future members of the Burpee Mills Community Centre Fitness Facility. He will be offering workshops and seminars on many different topics for the next few months such as basic resistance training, nutrition, cardiovascular training, stretching, stress management etc. You can contact him at billyjim76@hotmail.com, or at 705-282-1398.   Fun Times: Fun times start this month. Children who are of the age from kindergarten to grade 8 can enjoy supervised fun times at the Community Centre on the following dates: Friday Night Fun Night - April 11th, 7-9 p.m. Sunday Fun Afternoon - April 27th, 1-3 p.m.   Giant Community Garage Sale: The garden committee is planning a Community Garage Sale on Saturday, July 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Community Centre. Start saving your “junk” now. Remember “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” Watch for details in the next issue of the newsletter.   Cemetery Board Report: Spring Clean-up time is approaching. Our Cemetery Clean-up Day has been scheduled for Friday, May 9th. Mark this date on your calendar right now, lest you forget. When your family is visiting the Island to celebrate Mothers' Day Weekend, why not take the opportunity to meet at the cemetery; visit your family interment lots; place some fresh flowers on your monuments; rake some grass; and perhaps trim some of the shrubs you have planted. Since there is very little general maintenance requiring a large group effort, the Board Trustees encourage families to visit any time during Mother's Day Weekend to attend to their annual cleanup requirements.   New infrastructure Funding: Our municipality has received $283,000 from the Ontario government for infrastructure funding. Council is currently preparing a list of priority road projects.   Summer Job Opportunities: Recreation Coordinator: The municipality will be seeking a summer student, age 16 or older, to work as recreation coordinator. Anyone interested in this position should submit a resume to the Municipal Office. Swimming Instructor: The municipality will be hiring a summer student age 16 or older to work as swimming instructor. Anyone interested in this position should submit a resume to the Municipal Office.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of council will be on Monday, May 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
March 2008 Issue

Fire Team Report: Here is a helpful hint to avoid grease fires in the kitchen. When you are heating hot oil in a pan, you should have a lid close at hand. If a fire occurs in the pan, you can cut off the air supply to the flames by quickly placing the lid over the pan. Wear oven mitts to protect your hands. If you do not have a lid handy, you may cover the pot with a wet dishcloth. Wet the dishcloth under the tap and wring out any excess moisture before placing over the flaming pan. Also, you should never throw water, sugar or flour on a grease fire. Many people may have noticed a significant number of fires in Ontario last month that resulted in fatalities. None of these occurred in our Municipality. Thanks to our residents, the program of maintaining clean chimneys and working smoke alarms is successful. Just a quick reminder to our firefighters that on Wednesday March 19, Burpee and Mills Fire Department is hosting the Manitoulin Fire Fighter Association meeting at 19:30 hours.   Funspiel: The annual Curling Funspiel planned for March 8th has been cancelled. The recreation committee had difficulty finding a suitable date that did not conflict with other curling events or previously booked events at the Gore Bay Curling Club. Unfortunately the date that was chosen meant that many of our enthusiastic curlers were already committed to another curling bonspiel. The committee plans to try again next year.   Fun Times: Children who are of the age from kindergarten to grade 8 can enjoy supervised fun times at the Community Centre on the following dates: Friday Night Fun Night - April 11th, 7-9 p.m. Sunday Fun Afternoon - April 27th, 1-3 p.m.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of council will be on Monday, April 7th at 7:30 p.m.   Winter Sand Shortage: Severe icy conditions, which have occurred on Manitoulin this winter, have created a shortage of winter sand. Winter sand, a mixture of fine sand with enough salt to keep it from freezing, is placed into storage by the contractor responsible for maintaining the provincial highway in this area. Each year, municipalities are able to purchase sand from this supply for use on local roads. The available supply is almost exhausted. The month of March is often a time of icy conditions developing on roads due to spring freeze /thaw cycles. Drivers in our municipality are being advised to be especially careful this spring when driving on the slippery roads when no more sand is available.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
February 2008 Issue

Recreation Committee: The Recreation Committee elected a new slate of officers for the following year. The new executive members are as follows: Chairman: Jeff Middleton Secretary: Joyce Hill Co-Chairman: Barrett Wright Treasurer: Tara Bailey Our community owes a great thank you to all those people who have worked hard to make our facility and services the success they are today. The next meeting of the Recreation Committee will be on Tuesday, February 19 at 7:00 p.m. at the Community Centre. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.   Meet & Greet at Gateway: The Meet and Greet event sponsored by the Recreation Committee at the Gateway Grill was a great success. The committee would like to thank all those who attended and offered their support. Some of the future recreational events that were suggested were    1.       Summer picnic    2.       Dances    3.       Golf tournament    4.       Car rally    5.       Friday night “Fun Night”. People can show their interest in the above activities as helpers. The more people we have to help, the more fun everyone will have. New ideas are welcome! If you would like to suggest other activities, call Barrett Wright at 282-8430.   Funspiel: The annual Burpee & Mills Curling Funspiel will be on Saturday, March 8th. There will be a new format this year with teams playing only 2 games of 6 ends. All games should be over by 5 p.m. so that everyone can enjoy a tasty potluck dinner followed by the awarding of prizes. Spectators are welcome to come out and cheer on the curlers and stay for the dinner. Cost for curlers is $10.00 plus a dish and $5.00 plus a dish for spectators. Call Debbie Wright at 282-2077 to sign up for curling.   Potluck Supper: There will be a potluck supper on Friday, February 29th at 6:00 p.m. at the Community Centre. Cost is $5:00 plus a dish. Come out and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by our great cooks, who are certain to bring a dish from one of their favourite recipes. Before the supper you are invited to attend a Seniors’ Dance from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. with music selected from a mainly Country and Western theme. Ted and Rose Jackson and B.J Rumley will provide live music from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. After the supper, you can stay and enjoy an evening of games such as Crocinole, Cards, and Rummy Kub. Proceeds will go to help fund repairs to the roof of the Elizabeth Bay United Church. This is sure to be an enjoyable event for all. We hope to see you there.   Community Volunteer Hours: If you are a senior who would like help with chores, high school students would be happy to come to your aid. In order to graduate, high school students need community hours to complete a credit for their diploma. Call Tara Bailey at 282-0003 and she will act as liaison for these great kids, let you know who is available, and get you connected.   Fire Team Report: On Wednesday, March 19, at 19:30 hours, the Burpee & Mills Fire Department will host the Manitoulin Fire Fighter Association meeting. All active members of the volunteer group are requested to attend this meeting, which involves fire fighters from across the Island. Call Dennis Blackburn at 282-8196 if you have any hot topic you would like discussed. The next practice will be on Thursday, February 21st at 1900 hours at the fire hall. Be careful. More than your heart can get burned when you light candles on Valentine’s Day!   Council Report: The next regular meeting of Municipal Council will be Monday, March 5th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Community Centre. Happy Valentine's Day

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
January 2008 Issue

Fitness Centre News: It's New Year's Resolution time once again - let's feel great and improve our health by having more energy and reducing stress. Come out to the Burpee & Mills Fitness Centre Monday through Thursday evenings 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. The Fitness Centre is fully supervised for ages 14 and up. Memberships are available for a fee of $20:00 per month, however reduced rates may apply as follows: students and seniors $10:00/month, Burpee & Mills taxpayers $15.00/month. The Fitness Centre is also available throughout the day when the township office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Three treadmills, exercise bikes, a stepper and a variety of weight equipment including freehand weights are available for all to enjoy. To get signed up as a member, just come out during the evening session so a supervisor can provide you with orientation and registration. We look forward to seeing you at our own Community Centre and exercise facility. Monday evenings beginning at 7:00 p.m. you can enjoy aerobics for all ages with Certified Instructor, Pam McQuarrie for just $3.00 per session. Be sure to wear comfy clothes. Bev Lewis and Beth Gibbs enjoy a workout at the Burpee &Mills Fitness Centre   Defibrillator: Our Community Fitness Centre is now equipped with a defibrillator provided by the DSSAB (District Social Services Administration Board). Several members of our community, including municipal staff, firefighters and fitness centre supervisors have been trained to use the new defibrillator and are now certified in CPR and in the use of this equipment.   Photoshop Elements Course: You’ve mastered your digital camera but now what do you do with all those memories packed on that little memory card? In this course you will learn how to download photos from your camera, organize them on your computer, store on a CD, display creatively, and share them with family and friends. You will also learn basic photo editing techniques. Tuition: $52.50 Days: Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Starts: January 26th for 1 day or February 2nd for 1 day Location: Burpee-Mills Township Office To register, contact Judy Proux, Program Coordinator, Espanola/Manitoulin Cambrian College of Applied Arts & Technology Phone No.: (705) 368-3194 in Little Current Phone No.: (705) 869-4113 in Espanola Email: jeproux@cambrianc.on.ca   Fire Team Report: Volunteer members of the Burpee & Mills Fire Department wish you a SAFE and HAPPY NEW YEAR. During the first two months of the heating season, November and December, fires caused the death of nine people in Ontario. The Office of the Fire Marshall is now encouraging all fire departments to apply more effort to fire prevention. Our volunteers encourage you to test your smoke alarm regularly. Most modern units have a test button, but you can activate other alarms by carefully burning a small piece of string in a pie plate under the unit. Help us by testing yours TODAY! Our fire fighters will soon be receiving new training to reduce risks from explosions and chemicals while dealing with fires in crystal methamphetamine labs and marijuana grow operations. Unfortunately, these types of activities are creeping into rural areas because they seem to be significantly more profitable than normal farming practices. Our next fire team practice will be on Thursday, January 17 at 1900 hours at the fire hall.   Recreation Committee: Our municipally is looking for new people to join the Recreation Committee. There will be a meeting at the Community Centre on Thursday, January 17 at 7:00 p.m. to hold an election of officers. Burpee Mills has gained a reputation for strong participation in our social activities. Let’s prove the reputation is correct. Show up and say “I can help”.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be Monday, February 4th, at 7:30 p.m. at the Community Centre.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
December 2007 Issue

Fire Team Report: The festive season is upon us once again, but it is also a perilous time for fires in the home. In Ontario alone, there were 13 fire fatalities in December 2005, almost twice the province’s monthly average. The hazards are all around us – Christmas trees, extension cords, lights, and unattended candles. The biggest cause of home fires, by far however, is cooking. Never leave the pot on the stove unattended. Our last fire team practice was on November 15 and our next practice will be on December 20 at 19:00 hours at our fire hall. Please have a happy and safe Christmas Season.   Emergency Preparedness: An emergency can strike at any time. It is important to be prepared. Everyone should be ready to take care of their family, including pets, for 72 hours. Every household is different. Prepare your family accordingly. The following is a general list: Don’t Panic! Keep a full portable propane tank available at all times for cooking on your outdoor barbeque. During any heavy snowfalls, remember to keep your furnace vent clear. Bank machines may not work in extreme circumstances: put a little cash in your emergency kit. Notify the Township Office of any special medical requirements such as Oxygen or Insulin. REMEMBER we are a COMMUNITY. Ask for and offer support to your neighbours. Good Websites to visit     www.getprepared.ca (Go to 72 hours – Is Your Family Prepared)     www.emergencymanagementontario.ca     www.safecanada.ca     www.ccep.ca (Canadian Centre for Emergency Preparedness)     www.redcross.ca   Cemetery Board Report: The Cemetery Board invites applicants for the position of Assistant Cemetery Caretaker. The assistant Caretaker will be expected to perform the following duties as directed by the Caretaker: Mark boundaries of Interment Lots in preparation for burials or placement of monuments or flat markers. Supervise and assist with in-ground and ash burials. General maintenance of cemetery grounds. All interested individuals should contact Morley Runnalls, Cemetery Caretaker, for more information or with a request to be considered for this position. Call 705 282-2356.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be Monday, January 7, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. Merry Christmas

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
November 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: (Hunters Special) Our next community breakfast will be held at the Burpee & Mills Community Centre, located at the corner of Union Road and Bailey Line on Sunday, November 18th from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. Hunters! Don’t let the rumble in yours belly scare away that trophy buck when you can instead fill up with a hearty breakfast of sausages, scrambled eggs, pancakes, home fries, French toast, topped off with fruit salad or strawberries and whipped cream. Cost for this “all you can eat breakfast” is only $8.00 per person and $4.00 for children under 12.   Fire Team Report: Since cool weather is now here, wood burners of our community should remember to clean the chimney and related apparatus. It is a good idea to change the smoke detector batteries every year when the clocks are moved back in the fall. Be sure to test the smoke detector as well, as nothing lasts forever. Our last fire practice was on October 25 and the next will be on Thursday, November 15 at 19:00 hours at our fire hall. Our Christmas agenda will be discussed so a full turnout is expected.   Community Garden Report: Throughout this season, we continued to receive many compliments regarding our community garden's appearance. Despite this summer's drought, the flowers and shrubs were beautifully maintained. Once again, we extend our thanks to the volunteers who planted, weeded, watered, and trimmed so diligently. Our little "group of seven" gardeners would appreciate any extra help during the coming year. If you would like to donate some time helping, sharing ideas and socializing in the garden, please contact Seija Bailey or Carol Lang. Willing hands make the job easy, interesting and fun.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on Monday, December 3, at 7:30 p.m.   Accessibility Review: Each year our municipality is required to review accessibility to all publicly owned buildings. If any residents are having difficulty getting into the public buildings, they are invited to call the municipal office so that their concerns can be dealt with in this review.   Fluorescent Bulbs: Many householders have now converted to use of the new energy efficient fluorescent light bulbs. All fluorescent bulbs, both long tubes and new spiral ones, contain small amounts of mercury. These bulbs are classed as hazardous waste and are not acceptable at the municipal recycling depot. You are requested to take these bulbs for disposal on our annual hazardous household waste day.   Road Safety: With the frosty days of autumn approaching, increasing numbers of deer are wandering on to the highways. All drivers are asked to be very cautious to avoid collisions with these animals. Drivers are also reminded that the Ontario Provincial Police will be conducting frequent R.I.D.E. checks on the highway. New regulations provide officers with the power to suspend licences and impound vehicles of drinking drivers on the spot. These rules apply to all motorized vehicles including A.T.V.s.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
October 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: (Hunters Special) Our next community fund raising breakfast will be held at the Burpee & Mills Community Centre, located at the corner of Union Road and Bailey Line on Sunday, November 18th from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. You can enjoy a hearty meal of delicious fruit salad, sausages, scrambled eggs, pancakes, home fries, French toast, and strawberries with whipped cream, smothered in real maple syrup. This may be the best opportunity for hunters to get a good meal before having to endure the rigors of the “bush cook”. Cost for this “all you can eat breakfast” is only $7:00 per person. Hunter orange or camouflage dress is optional.   Fire Team Report: With cooler weather on its way, remember to clean chimneys and related wood burning apparatus. This is also a great opportunity to change the smoke detector batteries, along with change to standard time. Please test the smoke detector as well. This year Fire Prevention week is October 7 to the 13 and the theme is “Practice Your Escape Plan”. People can have less than a minute to escape a home fire safely; it is vital that everyone in the home knows exactly what to do if a fire starts and the smoke alarms sound. Our last practice was on September 20. Our next practice will be on October 25 at 19:00 hours at our fire hall.   Provincial Election: The provincial election will take place on Wednesday, October 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Our local polling station will be at the Community Centre. Please be sure to bring your registration cards and proof of identity and address. If you are not on the voters list you will be required to show proper identity before you can be added to the list in order to vote.   Council Report: Waste Reduction Week: Council has proclaimed the week of October 15 to 22 as Waste Reduction Week in Burpee and Mills. For more information you can check out the website at www.wrwcanada.com The next meeting of municipal council will be on Monday, November 5th at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
September 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be this Sunday, September 9th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, sausages, home fries, fruit salad, strawberries, whipped cream and real maple syrup. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Check out the annual perennial plant sale while you are there.   Burpee Mills Cemetery: Please check your family interment plots for flowers that have blown off monuments. Potted plants that have been placed beside monuments often interfere with regular mowing of the cemetery grounds. If you have brought a potted plant to the graveside, we ask that you place it on a small flat cement tile in front of the monument. In that location, it will not require undue attention during regular maintenance operation. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us keep our cemetery beautiful. It is time to remove any glass containers from the cemetery. These pose a hazard when the contents freeze.   Burpee Mills Heritage Community Garden: We wish to extend a special thank you to Glen and Marilyn Wright for their generous contribution to the Memorial Garden in memory to Glen’s father, Jack Wright. Don’t miss the Perennial Plant Sale on Sunday, September 9th during the breakfast.   Fire Team Report: Due to the extremely dry conditions a Fire Ban was in effect from August 20 through to August 29. We appreciate the compliance and support of the community and our summer guests. This year Fire Prevention week is October 7 to the 13 and the theme is “Practice Your Escape Plan”. People can have less than a minute to escape from a home fire safely. It is vital that everyone in the home knows exactly what to do if a fire starts and the smoke alarms sound. Our next practice will be on Thursday, September 20 at 19:00 hours at our fire hall.   Transfer Station Hours: Please note that the extended summer hours at our transfer Stations are now over. The transfer stations will be open on Thursdays from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.   Island Wide Waste Management Committee: At the last meeting of the Island Wide Waste Management Committee, the final draft of the Management Plan Environmental Assessment Terms of Reference was accepted. Watch for the next series of public consultations to be held in the first week of October.   Computer courses: The following courses will be available at our community centre. To register, or for more information, contact Cambrian College Manitoulin Campus 368-3194. Student must register at least one week prior to start date. One day workshops are also available. See brochures at the community centre and/or attached here: Word Doc 1      Word Doc 2 WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF COMPUTERS - LEVEL ONE Days:          Wednesdays 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Starts:         October 17th for 4 weeks Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:         $79.50 Nites:          Thursdays 7:00 p.m. B 9:00 p.m. Starts:         October 18th for 4 weeks Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:         $79.50 QUICKBOOKS B INTRODUCTION Days:          Saturdays 9:30 a.m. B 2:30 p.m. Starts:         October 20th for 3 weeks Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:        $153.70 MICROSOFT OFFICE SEMINAR SERIES Word – Introduction Days:          Friday 9:30 am B 3:30 pm Starts:         October 19th for 1 week Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:        $79.50 plus purchase of textbook is required MICROSOFT OFFICE SEMINAR SERIES Excel – Introduction Days:          Friday 9:30 am B 3:30 pm Starts:         October 26th for 1 week Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:        $79.50 plus purchase of textbook is required MICROSOFT OFFICE SEMINAR SERIES Powerpoint– Introduction Days:          Friday 9:30 am B 3:30 pm Starts:         November 2nd for 1 week Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:        $79.50 plus purchase of textbook is required MICROSOFT OFFICE SEMINAR SERIES Access – Introduction Days:          Friday 9:30 am B 3:30 pm Starts:         November 9th for 1 week Location:      Burpee/Mills Township Office Tuition:        $79.50 plus purchase of textbook is required   Council Report: The next meeting of council will be Monday, October 1 at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
August 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be on Sunday, September 9th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, sausages, home fries, fruit salad, strawberries, whipped cream and real maple syrup. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Want to practice some basic life skills like breaking eggs or mixing pancake batter? Want to find out why people are laughing in the kitchen? Please call Lenna Noland at 282-2189 to join the enthusiastic volunteers who help to make the breakfast a success. Proceeds go to the Golden Age Club, Recreation Committee and the Fire Team.   Perennial Plant Sale: It's that time again! Our fifth annual perennial plant sale will be held during the Community Breakfast on Sunday, September 9th. Get a head start on your next year's garden. Save money on our inexpensive, high quality plants, and then enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Centre. Proceeds will go towards plants, fertilizer and equipment for the Burpee Mills Heritage Community Garden for the enjoyment of everyone.   Computer courses: The Manitoulin campus of Cambrian College has a ten-station computer lab which can be installed for one semester in outlying communities in order to provide computer training to local residents. The college would like to know if there are residents of Burpee Mills who would be interested in taking computer courses this fall or winter, at the township office. A number of people have already expressed interest but we need more applicants to enable the course to be given here. Possible course offerings could include: Welcome to the World of Computers: an introduction to computers covering the Windows operating system, word processing, and the Internet. Simply Accounting or Quick Books: computerized accounting systems for small business owners. Microsoft Office Software: Access, Excel, Publisher, Powerpoint or Word If you might be interested in taking a course this fall or have suggestions for computer training, or other courses, you would like to see offered in your community, please call or email Judy Proux, Program Coordinator for the Manitoulin and Espanola campuses of Cambrian College at 368-3194, jeproux@cambrianc.on.ca .   Recreation: Are you wondering what to do with the rest of the summer? Supervised recreational activities for all ages are available for the month of August, Monday to Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Municipal Complex. Come out and play Basketball, Soccer, Ball Hockey, Badminton, Horseshoes, Volleyball and more!!   Fire Team Report: Because of the extreme drought conditions, no burning of brush is allowed. While campfires are still permitted in safe areas, residents are asked to be very careful, keep water handy and ensure that the fire is attended until it is out. If the dry weather continues, a total fire ban may be required. Our next pumper practice has been scheduled for August 16th.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of council is on Wednesday, September 5th, at 7:30 p.m.   Hazardous Waste Day: The annual hazardous household waste pickup at Mindemoya was again successful with large amounts of old paint, stain, oil and other chemicals collected. Please note that fluorescent light bulbs, especially the long tubes, contain mercury and will in the future be required to be disposed of with hazardous household waste.   Employment Opportunity: To satisfy changing provincial requirements, our municipality is looking for an administrative assistant to document and evaluate all municipal assets. Using a computer data base program, the job involves calculating and recording the present value of buildings, roads, equipment and other materials belonging to the municipality. Information will be collected through discussion with other staff and organizations. The successful candidate will have knowledge of computerized data base systems and ability to communicate effectively with other individuals. Application for the position can be made by submission of a resume to the municipal office by Monday, August 27th. Although some flexibility is available, the position is for two days per week.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
July 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be on Sunday, July 22 from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, sausages, home fries, fruit salad, strawberries, whipped cream and real maple syrup. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds go to the Golden Age Club, Recreation Committee and the Fire Team. Please call Lenna Noland at 282-2189 if you are available to help out at the breakfast.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday June 21, 2007. Our next practice will be on Thursday July 19, 2007 at our hall, at 19:00 hours. Clair Rouse, our Fire Advisor from the Office of the Fire Marshall, is scheduled for a visit. A full turnout of volunteers is expected. During the last month, our team was called out twice. One call was for a vehicle extrication and the other for a grass fire in a hay field. As we have been experiencing hot, dry and windy conditions, a fire ban on all fires has been issued for our Municipality. A reminder again about smoke alarms… it is the law. Our permanent homes are well equipped, but what about camps, cottages, bunkies etc??? Have a great fire safe summer!!   Garden Committee Report: Our community gardens are once again looking great for the summer; thanks to the dedicated efforts of our local volunteer gardeners. A special thank you is extended to the Campbell Horticultural Society for their contribution of $50.00 to our garden. This donation was made in recognition of our gardeners' efforts to beautify our municipal and cemetery grounds. Members of our community can show their appreciation by "taking time to smell the roses".   Council Report: During the regular meeting of July 4th Council adopted a budget for 2007. The 2006 year end showed a small surplus of $39.795 which was transferred to operating reserves for 2007. For the present year we are predicting a total income of $765,431.00 and total expenditures of $755,774.00. This means that the tax rate for Burpee and Mills residents will remain unchanged for the third year in a row. A copy of the complete document is available at the Municipal Office. Construction on Bell Road is now complete for this year. The parts of Union and Indian Point Roads, repaired last year, will be hard-topped as soon as equipment is available this month. The next regular meeting of Municipal Council will be on Wednesday, August 8th at 7:30 p.m.   Hazardous Waste Day: Remember to collect your hazardous waste items. On Saturday, July 21st from 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m., you can take them to the Household Hazardous Waste Event at the Mindemoya Roads Building, 7 Lakeshore Road off Hwy 542/551 Mindemoya. Please note that we pay by volume. We all save money if liquids are combined so that oil-based paint is in one container and latex in another. On Thursday July 17 residents, with small amounts of paints, solvents etc., who are unable to drive to Mindemoya on Saturday, may bring these to the Burpee & Mills Transfer Station between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. for removal to Mindemoya.

What to bring From your workbench    Adhesives, glues, resins    Hobby Supplies, artist supplies    Latex, oil paints (SEE TIP)    Stains, thinners and stripper From your garage    Car batteries, dry cell batteries    Engine degreasers, brake fluids    Transmission fluids    Engine oil    Antifreeze From your yard    Insecticides, weed killers, poisons    Pesticides    Propane cylinders (small)    Swimming pool chemicals    Wood preservatives From your house    Aerosol cans    Cleaners, spot removers    Hearing aid (button) batteries    Ni-Cad batteries    Photo chemicals    Pharmaceuticals    Fluorescent light tubes and bulbs

What not to bring    Ammunition, fireworks, explosives    Infectious and biological waste    Syringes (your local drugstore will handle those)    Radioactive waste    Unknown compressed gas cylinders    Tires    Old electronics and computers

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
June 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be on Sunday, June 24 from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, sausages, home fries, fruit salad, strawberries, whipped cream and real maple syrup. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds go to the Golden Age Club, Recreation Committee and the Fire Team. More volunteers would be very much appreciated. If you can spare a couple of hours to help, please call Lena Noland at 282-2189.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday, May 17, 2007. We went to the lake and tried out our new pistol grip nozzle. All firefighters were impressed with its added control for safety reasons, as well as, a reduction in firefighter fatigue. This nozzle was purchased with funds raised by the breakfasts. Thank you patrons and volunteers alike for supporting our efforts. The next practice is scheduled for Thursday, June 21, 2007. The fire team also thanks Steve Maxwell for his generous donation of a power washer to help maintain the fire trucks. The Ministry of Natural Resources placed a fire ban on North Eastern Ontario, which lasted from May 10 to the 16th. The announcement was well covered by 94.1 radio, but in any event our protocol is to notify Taylor’s One Stop where Kim or Ken will place a notice for the public. It should also be noted that Burpee Mills has the authority to declare our township as a fire ban area even it the MNR has not.   Burpee Mills Cemetery Report: We extend thanks to the many community members who took time from their busy schedules to assist in spring cleanup activities at our cemetery on May 11. By the appearance of the cemetery grounds, it was evident that many people had attended prior to Friday to clean up and place floral arrangements on monuments. Unfortunately, some of these had been blown off during a strong windstorm. The cleanup crew attempted to replace these, but may have erred in matching the flowers to the correct monument. We apologize, in advance, if you find your arrangement has been moved to another monument.   Sport Fishing: The Province of Ontario, in conjunction with the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters, sponsors a summer weekend in which sport fishing is allowed without a license. You can introduce someone new to this fun sport between Friday, July 6 and Sunday, July 8th this year.   Cambrian College Placement: Delena Deeg will be working at the municipal office from June 11 to August 2 as a Cambrian College Placement Student, assisting the clerk with office duties. During this time the municipal office will be open for limited business on Fridays in addition to the regular hours from Monday to Thursday.   Transfer Station: Summer hours will begin on the second week of June and continue up to and including the Labour Day weekend. Bring your recyclables, separated, in clear plastic bags. The transfer station is open at the following times during the summer.         Tuesday  2:00 pm – 3:00 pm         Thursday 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm         Saturday 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm   Hazardous Waste Day: Start collecting your hazardous waste items. On Saturday, July 21st from 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m., you can take them to the Household Hazardous Waste Event at the Mindemoya Roads Building, 7 Lakeshore Road off Hwy 542/551 Mindemoya. Please remember that we pay by volume. We all save money if liquids are combined so that oil-based paint is in one container and latex in another.   Computer courses: The Manitoulin campus of Cambrian College has a ten station computer lab which can be installed for one semester in outlying communities in order to provide computer training to local residents. The college would like to know if there are residents of Burpee Mills who would be interested in taking computer courses this fall or winter, at the township office. Possible course offerings could include: Welcome to the World of Computers, Simply Accounting or Quick Books, and Microsoft Office Software. If you might be interested in taking a course this fall or have suggestions for computer training, or other courses, you would like to see offered in your community, please call or email Judy Proux, Program Coordinator for the Manitoulin and Espanola campuses of Cambrian College at 368-3194, jeproux@cambrianc.on.ca.   Council Report: Our June meeting was attended by Staff Sergeant Bruce McCullagh who explained the intricacies of dividing policing costs among the Manitoulin municipalities. It seems that the only way we can reduce these costs both to ourselves as well as the municipality is to stay out of trouble. One of the increasing concerns to police is accidents involving young people and All Terrain Vehicles. As these ATV’s become heavier and more powerful, young people can become trapped under the machines during rollovers because they lack the strength to escape. As most residents have observed, repairs to Bell Road have commenced. Replacement of the main culvert and blasting of rock at the crest of the hill will require that the road be closed for short periods of time. Every attempt will be made to keep a bypass lane open for use by the public. The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on Wednesday, July 4 at 7:30 p.m. The budget by-law will be passed at the July meeting.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
May 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be on Sunday, May 27 from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, sausages, home fries, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with maple syrup. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12 years of age. Proceeds from this fundraising program go to the Golden Age Club, Recreation Committee and the Fire Team. These breakfasts are our only major fundraising activity, but because of their success, we need your help! There are jobs available for every level. Please volunteer by calling Lena Noland at 282-2189.   Cemetery Spring Cleanup: The cemetery Spring Cleanup will be on Friday, May 11, 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Remember to bring rakes and shovels. Help us make our cemetery grounds beautiful.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday, April 19, 2007. Since it was reasonably warm, both trucks were dispatched to the lake. We pumped water with all the pumps to ensure they operated properly. The next scheduled practice is on Thursday, May 17, 2007 at our fire hall at 7:00 p.m. Although we have had some rain and the lawns are greening up, the bush and scrublands remain dry. This is a definite concern for what is referred to as wildfire. In particular, homes and cottages situated in wooded areas should be clear of brush, grass and other debris for 10 meters. A clean roof and gutter will minimize the risk of ignition from flying embers. Grass burning is extremely dangerous and is not permitted. Residents are reminded that they should not hesitate to call 911 in the event of any fire that may be out of control.   Recreation Committee: Ashley Clarke will be the swimming instructor for the summer sessions at Obejewung Park. Parents are reminded to register their children for the swimming lessons, at the Municipal Centre.   Job Opportunities: Recreation Coordinator: The municipality will be seeking a summer student, age 16 or older, to work as recreation coordinator. Anyone interested in this position should submit a resume to the Municipal Office. Assistant Swimming Instructor: The municipality will hire an assistant swimming instructor for the month of July. Interested students should submit a resume to the Municipal Office. Grass Cutting: The municipality requires a student to cut the grass at the municipal sites and cemetery. Interested students should apply at the Municipal Office.   Transfer Station: Please remember to wash all recyclable material taken to the transfer station, such as plastics, cans and glass, because only clean materials are acceptable to recycling facilities. Our municipality will again be participating in the Hazardous Waste Pickup this summer. Lists of specific items eligible for disposal will be published in future newsletters and the newspapers.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on Monday, June 4 at 7:30 p.m. Our municipality has a new email address effective immediately which allows us to access high speed internet. The new address is burpeemills@xplornet.com

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
April 2007 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be on Sunday, April 29 from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast, sausages, home fries, fruit salad, strawberries and whipped cream with fresh new maple syrup. Next month’s breakfast will be on May 27. If you would like to help out by volunteering at the breakfasts, please call Lena Noland at 282-2189.   Fitness Centre: The fitness centre will hold an Open House on Sunday, April 29 at 11:00 a.m. right after the community breakfast. Steve Blouin, who is a physiotherapist at Little Current, will be the guest speaker. Everyone who attends the Open House can obtain a free membership at the gym for one month. The gym will continue to be open on Sundays from 7-9 p.m. thanks to the interest shown.   Cemetery Spring Cleanup: The cemetery Spring Cleanup will be on Friday, May 11, 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. Remember to bring rakes and shovels. Help us make our cemetery grounds a beautiful place where you can enjoy a few hours of solitude remembering your departed loved ones.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Saturday March 17, 2007. The next scheduled practice is on Thursday April 19, 2007 at our fire hall at 7:00 p.m. At the practice on the 17th, we placed the 1985 GMC tanker into service by topping her up with water and transferring equipment from the retired 1972 GMC tanker. The old tanker has been donated to Silver Water. We hope it continues to serve their community well. Just a quick reminder to get your fire permit(s) if you are going to burn. You can obtain your permit on-line at our website burpeemills.com. Be careful when burning trash. No doubt this spring will be dry again. It may also be wise to clean out that chimney after having kept the fire smouldering during the recent warm spell. Spring is usually a period of increased risk for chimney fires.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on Monday, May 7th. Brown Outs: A number of residents in our municipality have recently experienced “brown outs” in their electrical supply. Brown outs are caused when the voltage of electrical current falls below normal. Certain types of motors, especially those used in refrigerators and freezers may not be able to run at the lower voltage and will burn out in a short period of time. If you notice a brown out, when the lights are dimmer than usual, you may wish to unplug the refrigerators and freezers to protect the motors until regular voltage is resume. Do not forget to plug the appliances back in when regular voltage returns! Bell Road: Following further discussion, input from affected property owners, and re-examination of costs, a motion was passed to proceed with the Bell Road construction project. Parts of the project now approved are:    •   Rebuild the road base south from Hwy. 540 to the intersection of Campbell Road to make the road wide enough for 2-way traffic    •   Clean the ditches along both sides of the road to maintain or improve water flow to the municipal drain     Lengthen or replace the culvert to the municipal drain to accommodate road widening and maintain water flow    •   Reduce the crown of the hill by blasting and removing rock to improve safety for traffic meeting on the hill    •   Break additional rock from the west side of the road cut to ensure the rebuilt road is aligned on the municipal right of way and allow room for normal snow removal The project is scheduled to commence during the summer dry season to minimize impact on water quality. Existing road surface material will be recycled and a new surface treatment applied when the road has compacted in the summer of 2008. Happy Birthday 90th Noreen On Saturday, March 10 family and friends gathered at the Community Centre to celebrate Noreen Vanhorn’s 90th birthday. The many guests enjoyed a delicious potluck supper and musical entertainment by Ted and Rose Jackson and friends. As part of the ceremony, Reeve, Ken Noland, read many letters of congratulation including those from the Prime Minister, Premier, and Governor General of Canada. Our congratulations and best wishes along with those of our entire municipality go out to Noreen with thanks for the contributions she has made to our community.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
March 2007 Issue

Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday, February 15, 2007. The next scheduled practice is on Saturday, March 17, 2007 in our fire hall at 9:00 a.m. to familiarize all volunteer members with our new truck. On February 13 a 1985 GMC Tanker fire truck was purchased to replace our existing 1972 GMC Tanker. Not only is the new truck 13 years younger, but it comes with increased tank capacity as well as air brakes. A big thanks goes out to Glen Wright and Cliff McKinley for travelling to southern Ontario, inspecting the fire truck, and bringing her home. Thanks also to Peter Lewko of the Caledon Fire Department for calling Dennis Blackburn and providing valuable assistance in this deal. Also thanks to our council for moving so swiftly to capitalize on this bargain.   Fitness Centre: The fitness centre will hold an Open House to celebrate Health Month in April. Check next month’s newsletter for date and time. Those who wish to come to the Open House will receive a free membership at the gym for one month. Come out and get in shape. The gym is open Monday to Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 7 to 9 p.m. Please note that the gym will not be open on Sunday, March 25th.   Funspiel: Congratulations to all the workers who toiled so hard to make another Burpee Mills funspiel such a resounding success. What a wonderful way to have children, parents and grandparents enjoy a day of curling, great food and socializing. This yearly event provides a valuable opportunity to meet and welcome new people to our friendly community, and catch up on what's happening with our friends and neighbours. Well done Recreation Committee! It truly was a F U N spiel.   Cemetery Board Report: Note this DATE on your calendar: Friday, May 11, 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. for Cemetery Spring Cleanup. This is a unique opportunity for a social gathering of your family. Don't forget rakes and shovels to lean on. We welcome Lyle Honess to the Cemetery Board. He joins Anne Hammond, Albert Noland, Lori Millsap (Council Representative), and Wayne Bailey as your Board representatives for the next four year term. You may be interested in knowing that we have 67 unsold interment lots in the plotted acreage of our cemetery. In compliance with Council's request, these will be sold prior to plotting the adjacent 1.0 acre of land recently purchased by the Cemetery Board.   Heritage Fair Project: Sheldon Campbell has constructed a model of the SS#1 Burpee School House at the corner of McKinley and Campbell Road for his Heritage School project. This creation will be on display at the community centre for those so would like to see it.   Council Report: One of the last major projects included in special COMRIF funds provided by the provincial and federal governments is upgrading to the Bell Road. This work is scheduled for completion during the coming summer. A special meeting to hear concerns and recommendations regarding this projected work on Bell Road will be convened Wednesday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the community centre. All residents interested in our municipal road maintenance program are invited to attend. The next regular meeting of municipal council will be Monday, April 2 at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
February 2007 Issue

Fitness Centre: The gym will be open on Sundays starting February 11 from 6-9 p.m. for a trial period. This is in addition to the regular times from Monday to Thursday 7-9 p.m. Come out and feel instantly welcome in a facility dedicated to hosting members, young and old. Our excellent variety of both cardio and weight lifting equipment provide an excellent way to get in shape and ward off the winter blues. You can join for a small monthly fee of $20 for non-property tax members; $15 for tax paying members; and $10 for students. If you would like to see what it’s all about before committing to join, please feel free to come in, ask questions, see the facility and/or experience orientation in this fully supervised fitness facility.   Funspiel: The annual Burpee Mills Funspiel will be held at the Gore Bay Curling Club on Saturday, February 24. Cost to curl is $10.00 plus a dish for supper. This is a fun event and novices are encouraged to participate. If you do not wish to curl, come out and cheer for your favourite team and then join us for supper for $5.00 plus a dish. It’s not too late to join a team. Call Debbie Wright at 282-2077 to sign up. Teams will be judged on individual team themes.   Fun Nite: Fun Nites for children under 16 years of age are held Friday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. at the community centre. Children 16 or older who would like to earn community service hours are most welcome to come and help out.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday January 18, 2007. The next scheduled practice is on Thursday February 15, 2007 at our fire hall at 19:00 hours. Here are some tips to help prevent fires in your home.  •  The first line of defence is to have working smoke alarms on every level of your home  •   Never leave cooking unattended  •   Have your chimney and appliances maintained  •   Never leave candles burning unattended  •   Keep combustibles at least 3 feet away from portable heaters  •   Keep lighters and matches away from children  •   Discard all cigarettes and dispose of ashes in a safe container  •   Do not store flammable or combustibles liquids in your basement   Council Report: Bell Road Improvements: Special COMRIF funding has been allocated to pay for improvements to the Bell Road to be made during the summer of 2007. Council has scheduled a special meeting to hear concerns and recommendations from anyone with an interest in this project. If you wish to present your views at the meeting, you will be required to notify the municipal clerk, Bonnie Bailey, before March 7th. Presentations will be limited to 15 minutes each. Those who are unable to attend the special meeting may express their views in a written document. The special meeting of council will take place on Wednesday, March 14th at 7:30 p.m. in the Burpee & Mills Community Centre. This meeting is open to the public. Student Job Opportunity: Students from Burpee and Mills are encouraged to apply now for a summer job at the Gore Bay Library. Application forms, list of duties and other information are available at the library. Get a head start on your competition for the summer job search. The next regular meeting of municipal council will be held on Monday, March 5, at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
January 2007 Issue

Not a good year for ice fishing! Waters such as Helen Bay remain open as balmy weather continues this winter.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday December14, 2006. The next scheduled practice is on Thursday January 18, 2007 at our fire hall at 19:00 hours. A release from the Office of the Fire Marshall is urging fire departments to enforce a zero tolerance approach for smoke alarms. For homeowners, tenants and landlords; non-compliance with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in a ticket for $235 or a fine of up to $50,000. A reminder to wood burning community households to clean your chimney. Unusually milder temperatures could often lead to creosote building up, as heating units are not operating at optimum temperatures.   Recreation Committee Report: Anyone interested in the use and development of our municipal recreation facilities is asked to attend an open meeting to be held at the Burpee Mills community centre on Thursday, January 11 at 7:00 p.m. Some of the activities planned by the recreation committee in the past included Fun Nites, Funspiels, Road Rallies and Dances. You are invited to use this opportunity to become part of the excellent progress already made by this volunteer group. We need your participation to ensure that our ball field, community centre and exercise room continue to be used and that our yoga, euchre, and social events are well attended.   Council Report: The next meeting of municipal council will be Monday, February 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
December 2006 Issue

Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday, November 16, 2006. The next scheduled practice is on Thursday December 14, 2006 in our fire hall at 19:00 hours. With the approaching festive season many families may be leaving their children in the care of a babysitter. Parents should review the home fire escape plan with the babysitter. Parents should also test the smoke alarms in the presence of the babysitter. This will ensure that everyone knows what to do in case of fire and will be able to escape safely. Please have a happy and safe holiday season.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be in the new year on Monday, January 3, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. Congratulations to our newly elected members of council: Lorri Millsap; Jeff Bailey; Reeve, Ken Noland; Pentti Palonen; and David Hill. Our best wishes and thanks go to previous councillors Jeff Middleton and Ed Wright for their years of service on council since January 8, 2001. At the December meeting of council, people were appointed to committees and positions as follows: Deputy Reeve: Pentti Palonen Public Works: Jeff Bailey, Lorri Millsap Recreation Committee: David Hill Municipal Complex and Grounds: Lorri Millsap, Jeff Bailey Cemetery Board: Wayne Bailey, Albert Noland, Anne Hammond, Lyle Honess; Lorri Millsap(council representative). Manitoulin Municipal Association: Ken Noland; Alternative, Council members Manitoulin Planning Board: Ken Noland Manitoulin Centennial Manor Board: Pentti Palonen Gore Bay & Area Landfill Representative & Island Wide Waste Committee: Pentti Palonen; alternative, David Hill Fire Committee: David Hill Police: Jeff Bailey Gore Bay Airport Board: David Hill Provincial Offences Act: Lorri Millsap Building Inspector Committee: Jeff Bailey Civic Addressing; Ken Noland Accessibility Planner: Bonnie Bailey Accessibility Plan Working Group: Reeve and all councillors Emergency Plan Committee: Ken Noland, David Hill Emergency Management Program: Reeve and all councillors. Pound Keeper: Morley Runnalls, Lyle Honess Fence Viewer: Ed Wright, Lyle Honess, John Deeg Stock Valuators: Mike Wright, Lyle Honess Weed Inspector: Albert Noland Gore Bay Public Library Representative: Jeanette Clark; Alternative, Bonnie Bailey Merry Christmas!

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
November 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be held on Sunday, November 19th from 8 until 11 a.m. You can enjoy the delicious fruit salad, sausages, scrambled eggs, pancakes, home fries, French toast, and strawberries with whipped cream, smothered in real maple syrup. This may be the best opportunity for hunters to get a good meal before having to endure the rigors of the “bush cook”. During the Breakfast, Friends of our Gore Bay Union Public Library will be having a Bake Sale with all of the proceeds going to the Gore Bay Public Library. Stock up on goodies to slip into the packsack, to munch on while waiting for that elusive buck.   Fire Team Report: Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Thursday October 12, 2006. The next scheduled practice will be on Thursday November 16, 2006 at our fire hall at 7:00 p.m.   Burpee Mills Cemetery Board Report:: A reminder to prepare your family plots for winter. It's time to remove flowers, containers (especially glass) and other items that could be damaged by ice and snow. The Cemetery Board is very appreciative of your co-operation in helping us maintain our cemetery grounds as a peaceful, attractive resting place for our loved ones. We also wish to thank Morley Runnalls, Cemetery Caretaker; Ron Bailey, Caretaker's Assistant; and Benjamin Veldhuyzen, Grounds Keeper for providing grounds maintenance, and assistance to families during interments this year. We also appreciate the efforts of Tim Armstrong who updated our computer files with interment information from Section II of our Cemetery. This Board's final meeting is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 27, followed by a report to Council. Please note: The Annual Audit of Cemetery Finances has been posted for public information at the Municipal Building. At its first meeting, new members for the Cemetery Board will be appointed by our elected Council. This Board will serve for the next four year term. Again, a sincere thank you for your co-operation and support during the last three years from the Board; Anne Hammond, Lorri Millsap, Albert Noland, Edward Wright; and Wayne Bailey, Chairperson.   Recreation Committee Report: The Gym is now open for the winter season on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Volunteers will be on hand each night to assist. For more information call Debbie Wright 282-2077 or Tammi Middleton 282-2532.   Hallowe’en Dance: Our big pumpkin weighed in at 143 pounds. The winner of the “Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin” contest was Peter Lawr with a guess of 137 pounds. Congratulations Peter! Did you miss the Hallowe'en Dance? Too bad, it was a fun time! Congratulations to all the enthusiastic young people who worked so hard to make this party so enjoyable. Our Recreation Committee set the tone with colourful decorations, while participants responded by donning unique costumes from ferocious sumo wrestlers to two very aloof ghosts; anti-social creatures who could certainly benefit from personality improvement lessons at the Casper School for Advanced Ghouls. The ghosts were apparently rendered speechless by the presence of a pair of evil and disreputable gypsies. The new acoustic panels did work to prevent reverberation from inhibiting conversation while the music played on, and on. Thank you Golden Age Club Members. This Hallowe'en Party probably did not prove to be a successful fund-raiser, but it certainly did put the "F U N" back into Burpee Mills. The Recreation Committee did a fine job planning this event.   Council Report: The municipal election for Burpee and Mills Townships will be held Monday, November 13, 2006 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Community Centre, to elect a Reeve and four Councillors for the next four year term. Mark the date on your calendar and be sure to come out and vote. The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on December 4 at 7:30 p.m. At that time the newly elected reeve and councillors will be sworn in.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
October 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be held on Sunday, October 22, between 8 and 11 a.m. You can enjoy the delicious fruit salad, sausages, scrambled eggs, pancakes, home fries, French toast, and strawberries with whipped cream, smothered in real maple syrup, while enjoying the company of your good friends and neighbours as well.   Fire Team Report: The Office of the Fire Marshal has declared the week of October 8 – 14, 2006 as Fire Prevention week. The message is “PREVENT COOKING FIRES – WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT”. In Ontario, cooking equipment is ranked as the number one cause of preventable home fires. In our community, many homeowners heat with wood or a combination of wood and other sources, you would expect chimney fires to be the most common occurrence. Fortunately they are not. Grass/brush fires and vehicle fires seem to get our attention more often. This tells us that community members are ensuring their heating apparatus is being cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. “KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!” Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Wednesday September 20 in Gore Bay. The next scheduled practice is on Thursday October 12, 2006 at our own fire hall at 19:00 hours. All hands on deck, to get ready for Old Man Winter or deer season, what ever comes first. There are a few scary tales of sub-standard heating devices in some hunt camps   Halloween Dance: Ghosties and ghoulies and long-legged beasties will be gathering at the Community Centre Halloween Dance on October 28th at 9:00 p.m. Curly Tunes will provide spooky dance music until the wee hours of the morning. Regular admission will be $10.00 per live body, but you can save and pay only $7.00 if you wear an appropriate costume. Real ghosts who enter through the walls, or bats who fly in, may attend for free. No minors please. Designated drivers will be available to assist those unable to walk or fly home. Advance tickets will be available from Tammi Middleton 282-3255 or Debbie Wright 282-2077. Proceeds from the dance will go to the Recreation Committee.   Municipal Election: A preliminary Voter’s List for the upcoming municipal election will be available in the Clerk’s office for public inspection. You may apply to have your name added, amended or deleted before the end of voting November 13, 2006. All applications must be made in writing and filed with the Clerk. An advance poll will be held on Wednesday, November 8th, 2006 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Burpee and Mills Municipal Complex, #8 Bailey Line Road. Five candidates standing for the 4 positions on council are Jeff Bailey, David Hill, Mark R. Lamoureux, Lorri Millsap, and Pentti Palonen. The position of Reeve is being contested by Jim Irvine and Ken Noland.   Council Report: The next regular meeting of council will be on Monday, November 6, at 7:30 p.m. The Municipal Financial Statements are posted at the Municipal Complex for anyone who would like to read them. The Municipal Accessibility Plan is also available for viewing at the Municipal Office. The municipal auditor is currently working with our clerk, Bonnie Bailey, to finalize the Municipal Performance Measures, which will be available later this month for public viewing, as well. These documents will soon be on our website at www.burpeemills.com. The municipality is looking for persons interested in applying for a contract to paint parts of the interior of the Community Centre. Anyone interested is requested to contact the municipal office for further details.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
September 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: There will be no community breakfast in September. Save your appetite and take a break from your busy bow-hunting schedule to attend the next community breakfast on Sunday, October 22, from 8 to 11 a.m.   Donations: The Community Centre now has new acoustic panels installed on the walls to help make our social occasions easier on the ears, especially when live bands are performing. The Golden Age Club and the Recreation Committee donated funds for the acoustic panels. The pulpit, also donated by the Golden Age Club, is now ready for use at the hall.   Halloween Dance: The Recreation committee is planning a Halloween Party for October 28th from 9:00 -1:00 p.m. The DJ will be Curly Tunes. Come on out and wear a scary costume! Watch for more details in next month’s newsletter.   Fire Team Report: The Office of the Fire Marshal has declared the week of October 8 – 14, 2006 as Fire Prevention week. The message is “PREVENT COOKING FIRES – WATCH WHAT YOU HEAT”. In Ontario, cooking equipment is ranked as the number one cause of preventable home fires. Last fire practice for Burpee Mills was on Wednesday August 16 at the fire hall. The next scheduled practice is on Wednesday September 20, 2006 at 19:30 at the Gore Bay Fire Hall.   Garden Club Report: The Burpee Mills Garden Club wishes to thank the community for continued support of the summer sale of perennial plants. Once again, this annual event was a great success. We also wish to extend our thanks to community members and their guests who volunteered help to tend our community gardens this summer. This assistance was greatly appreciated while some of our regular gardeners were incapacitated. We hope you enjoy the gardens as much as we do.   Council Report: Do you want to make things better in our municipality? Why not put your name down to serve a term on council? Nominations for reeve (1) and councillor (4), for the Township of Burpee & Mills are now being accepted by our Clerk, Bonnie Bailey. Nominations may be made by completing and filing a nomination form, in the office of the Clerk. The prescribed form, accompanied by the prescribed nomination filing fee of $200.00 for the Reeve and $100.00 for councillor are required. The filing fee is payable by cash, certified cheque or money order. Nomination forms may be filed at the municipal office during regular business hours up to and including September 28th, 2006, and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on September 29, 2006 (Nomination Day). A preliminary Voter’s List will be available in the Clerk’s office for public inspection from Tuesday, September 5, 2006 until the close of voting. You may apply to have your name added, amended or deleted by the end of voting November 13, 2006. All applications must be made in writing and filed with the Clerk or her designate. All decisions will be made by the Clerk or her designate. The next meeting of municipal council will be Monday, October 2, at 7:30 p.m.   Happy 90th Birthday Freda Hall Albert Noland congratulated Freda Hall on the occasion of her 90th birthday. A party attended by many local and off Island guests, was held in Freda’s honour at the Community Centre on Saturday, September 2nd. Photo courtesy of Denise Campbell

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
August 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: To wrap up the summer, our next community breakfast will be held on Sunday, August 20th between 8 and11 a.m. You can enjoy the delicious fruit salad, sausages, scrambled eggs, pancakes, home fries, French toast, and strawberries with whipped cream, smothered in real maple syrup. We anticipate a large turnout for this event, which, being combined with the annual perennial plant sale, always attracts a crowd. New volunteers to help in the kitchen will be much appreciated. Come and be part of the action.   Fire Team Report: Burpee Mills Fire Department was kept quite busy when power was restored to our community after the July 19 storm. Our clean record for 2006 was scorched in July by 6 emergency calls for fire, mainly caused by branches on the power lines. We did not conduct a practice due to several hours of actual on-scene time volunteered by the firefighters. Our next practice will be on Wednesday August 16 at the fire hall. Dennis Blackburn would like to ask the firefighters to review their schedules, to see if practices on the third Wednesday of every month would be a possibility.   Perennial Plant Sale: It's that time again! Our fourth annual perennial plant sale will be held during the Community Breakfast on Sunday, August 20th. Get a head start on your next year's garden. Save so much money on our inexpensive, high quality plants, that you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Centre. Proceeds will go towards plants, fertilizer and equipment for the Burpee Mills Heritage Community Garden for the enjoyment of everyone.   Road Rally Report: The second annual Burpee Mills Gimmick Road Rally was a huge success. Thanks to Colleen Blackburn, her committee, and to the many volunteers who helped out. Contestants enjoyed the challenges of the course, which included pulling on a wet T-shirt to cool off. They then proceeded to demolish the barbequed beef and other potluck dishes contributed for supper. Since the rally committee had reserved perfect weather, many people enjoyed the outdoor dance with live music supplied by the band, “First Company”. Our volunteer firefighters even provided an exciting sideshow when they pulled competitors from the rally and dashed off to respond to a grass fire emergency in the middle of the afternoon. We look forward to another Road Rally next year.   Island Wide Waste Management Plan: The Island Wide Waste Management Committee invites you to attend a public consultation meeting to discuss plans for waste disposal on Manitoulin Island. A consulting company, Earth Tech, has been hired to prepare a report on possible alternatives and would like input from the community. There will be three Public Consultation Centres for all who are interested in ways to deal with our garbage.           August 21   6:30 – 8:30 p.m.    Burpee Mills Community Centre           August 22   6:30 – 8:30 p.m.    Little Current Recreation Centre           August 23   6:30 – 8:30 p.m.    Central Manitoulin Community Hall For further details, contact the Island Wide Waste Management Committee at (705) 377-5726 or Earth Tech at (705) 674-8343.   Council Report: Burpee Mills council would like to thank all of the members in our community who helped to clear roads and restore access after Mother Nature tested our emergency response system last month. The many residents who generously shared their electrical generators, water pumps, chain saws, hard labour and special care, are the ones who make our community a great place in which to live. Special mention goes to Kim and Ken Orford who fired up their generator at Taylor’s One Stop to supply the gasoline, propane, ice and other necessities that allowed everyone to carry on their activities. In our regular review of accessibility to municipal facilities, council is requesting that anyone experiencing difficulty notify the office of the problem. Council will make every effort to ensure physical access problems are dealt with. Please help with this initiative by not parking in the designated handicap zone at the front of community centre. You can see the sign just under the hanging flowerpot, to the right of the doorway. We have a Summer Recreation Co-coordinator who is available to supervise youth at the Municipal Complex. There are a variety of activities from Basket Ball, Badminton, Floor Hockey, Soccer, etc. Contact the municipal office at 282-0624 for details. The next regular meeting of municipal council will be Wednesday, September 6th at 7:30 p.m.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
July 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: The next community breakfast will be held on Sunday, July 30th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Community Centre. Join us for a delicious breakfast of pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, fruit salad and more. Come early to beat the rush! Students can add to their volunteer hours by helping out at the breakfast.   Road Rally Report: It’s not too late to sign up for the Burpee Mills Gimmick Road Rally to be held on Saturday July 15th. Start time and Line up is 1:00 p.m. at the Community Centre. The rally will take approximately 3 hours to complete, followed by a potluck barbecue and dance. Registration forms are available at Steeles Home Hardware, Taylors One Stop and Gateway Restaurant and Grill. The cost of $60:00 per team includes dinner and dance for driver and navigator. Passengers are a twoonie each plus cost for the dinner and dance. Dinner is $5:00 per person plus a dish and $10:00 per person for the dance. The band this year will be “First Company”. For information, please contact Colleen Blackburn at 282-8196 or email: colleen@vianet.ca.   Fire Team Report: The Burpee Mills Fire Department conducted vehicle extrication training on Saturday, June 10. Marty McDonell of Emergency Services Supply from Shelburne was the instructor. This training included classroom orientation and actual cutting up of vehicles. Marty focused the instruction using our own hydraulic spreader and cutter. A big thanks goes out to Marty for instructing, and to our own Cliff McKinley for donating the cars and facilities. Have a great summer!   Burpee Mills Heritage Community Garden: Is gardening a dangerous activity? Not usually, but due to unfortunate accidents, two of our gardeners are temporarily disabled. Now our garden club is in dire need of help with the weeding and watering of our Community Centre gardens. If you have a few extra minutes to contribute to help keep these gardens looking beautiful, please call Seija at 282-8108. A sincere thank you to the Golden Age Club for another generous donation to the garden club!   Hazardous Waste Day: You can take your hazardous waste to the Mindemoya Roads Building at 7 Lakeshore Rd. off Hwy 542/511 on Saturday, July 8 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Here is a list of things to bring: Adhesives, glues, resins Hobby Supplies, artist supplies Latex, oil paints Stains, thinners and stripper Car batteries, dry cell batteries Engine degreasers, brake fluids Tires Transmission fluids Waste fuels (Kerosene, Gasoline) Insecticides, weed killers, poisons Propane cylinders Swimming pool chemicals Wood preservatives Aerosol cans Cleaners, spot removers Computers, electronic equipment Hearing aid (button-style) Nicad batteries Photo chemicals, chemistry sets   Council Report: The next regular meeting of council will be Monday, August 7th at 7:30 p.m. Remember that the council office will be closed the week of July 10th.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
June 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: Our next community breakfast will be held on Sunday, June 25th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Come out to enjoy a delicious breakfast of pancakes, french toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, fruit salad and more. Students will be able to add to their bank of volunteer hours by helping at the breakfast.   Road Rally Report: Back by popular demand! The Burpee Mills second annual Gimmick Road Rally will be held Saturday, July 15th. Start time and Line up is 1:00 p.m. A gimmick road rally is similar to a scavenger hunt. Contestants will be given clues consisting of puzzles and roadblocks that lead you to other clues and ultimately to the final goal. The rally will take approximately 3 hours to complete, followed by a potluck barbecue and dance. Get a team together and register. Registration forms are available at Steeles Home Hardware, Taylors One Stop and Gateway Restaurant and Grill. Early bird registration deadline is July 1st. Cost is $50.00 per team early bird registration, which includes dinner and dance for driver and navigator. The cost after July 1st is $60.00. Passengers are a twoonie each plus cost for the dinner and dance. Dinner is $5:00 per person plus a dish and $10:00 per person for the dance. The band this year is “First Company”. Hope to see you there. For information, please contact Colleen Blackburn at 705-282-8196 or email: colleen@vianet.ca   Community Yard Sale: The Golden Age Club and Community Garden Club would like to thank everyone who helped make our Burpee Mills Community Yard Sale such a great experience. Without the participants, the advertisers, the many volunteers, and the generous support of our community, this occasion would not have been so successful.   Garden Club Report: The Community Garden is once again ready for summer. Garden Club members have been busy weeding and planting. Thank you, Reta Pearson for the beautiful sign for our Veteran’s Garden.   Cemetery Board Report: The Cemetery Board thanks the many community residents, who took time from busy schedules, to attend Cemetery Cleanup on May 27. Since the grounds had been mowed prior to Cleanup Day, volunteers were able to concentrate on tidying the grave sites of their loved ones; in many cases this involved small tasks such as replacing faded floral arrangements with fresh ones. Many of the volunteers voiced their appreciation for the level of care, Morley Runnalls, Cemetery Caretaker, applies to maintaining the grounds. Now our Cemetery is ready for the many visitors, who come to spend a few moments of quiet reflection during the next few months.   Relay for Life Team – “Groovy Girls”: Barb, Charlene, Robyn, Kate, Keely, Jamie, Terry, Tanya, Tammi and Tara would like to thank everyone for their donations for our bake sale on May 28th where we made over $300 to go towards, our total of over $1300 for the Canadian Cancer Society.   Hazardous Waste Day: . You can take your hazardous waste to the Central Manitoulin Municipal Garage near Mindemoya on Hwy 542 on the afternoon of July 8th starting at 1 p.m. This year we will be concentrating on dry cell batteries, both regular and rechargeable, and partial paint/stain cans. A special container for used batteries, both regular and rechargeable, is available at the transfer station. Please dump all paint, stain and solvents into as few containers as possible. Take them directly to the hazardous waste site. We want to spend our tax dollars shipping waste, not mostly empty cans. Remember, if you still have any other trash you can’t get rid of, please call the municipal office.   Fire Team Report: The Burpee Mills Fire Department hosted the Manitoulin Firefight Association meeting on Wednesday, May 17, 2006. We were pleased with the participation from 9 members of our Burpee Mills Fire Department and 22 members of neighbouring fire departments. The primary objective was to make as many firefighters aware of the issues surrounding a tire fire, due to our geographic proximity to the Zhiibaahaasing First Nation tire dump. Claire Rouse of the Office of the Fire Marshall presented a tape on the Hagersville tire fire. Some facts that may be of interest include duration of burn 17 days; burnt on 14 acres; 100 foot flames with 1000 foot smoke ceiling; over 500 firefighters and 80 MNR personnel plus others from the military, and MOE people as well. It cost $30,000,000.00 to extinguish the tire fire and costs continue to this day to monitor the environmental disaster the fire caused. The Fire Team will have a practice on Saturday June 10 at 9:00 a.m. Marty McDonell of Emergency Services Supply will be training our Fire Team on vehicle extrication. With his experience on the 400 series highways, he knows some good tales. Do you have a screen over your burn barrel?   Council Report: The next regular meeting of municipal council will be on Wednesday, July 5. The municipal budget for 2006 was passed to maintain the tax rate at the same level as for 2005. This will result in tax bill amounting to $1212.10 for every $100,000 of assessment. Council wishes to remind all residents that we are supporters of the Gore Bay Library. You can become a member of the library for free. A brochure outlining services available at the library is available at the municipal centre. As part of our COMRIF funding program, our municipality will again be undertaking a number of road improvement project this summer. You may have noticed work taking place on the Indian Point Road. An additional project on Union Road is also scheduled for this summer to ensure our municipal roads continue to meet the provincial standard. Paving of McKinley Road and Poplar Roads north and south will be completed later in the summer.

Burpee & Mills Township Monthly Newsletter
May 2006 Issue

Community Breakfast: A community breakfast will be held on Sunday, May 28th from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Come out to enjoy a delicious breakfast of pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs, sausages, fruit salad and more, while meeting friends and neighbours. Young people looking for volunteer hours are most welcome to come and help out with the breakfasts.   Golden Age Club: At the meeting of the Golden Age Club, on April 19th, the present executive was re-elected. A motion was passed to purchase a pulpit for the hall to be used at special occasions and funerals.