Civil and Municipal - Jan 2024

Mayor McGarvey describes,“It stops first on the trestle bridge which goes over the Seguin River. It’s a very dramatic trestle because of its height and span.People can see it for miles around. We will have anywhere from 500 to 1000 people gathered there at one time just to catch the entertainment.” He underscores the significance of this event in supporting Harvest Share, the local food bank, through the collection of food and financial donations. CAO Clayton Harris says, “ Parry Sound is a great community and we are proud to be home to the many businesses, social and education services that support the surrounding communities of West Parry Sound. Recently we have seen a renewed interest in investing and developing in the town which will further enhance what the town has to offer. CULTURAL VIBRANCY Parry Sound’s cultural vibrancy is reflected in its diverse events and celebrations. One such example is The Festival of the Sound, a classical music festival which has become an international success, drawing music enthusiasts from around the globe. “For the past 45 years the Festival of the Sound has been a major economic driver in the town of Parry Sound,” boasts Mayor Jamie McGarvey. “It inspired the building of our Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts, which brings in other artistic talent through the rest of the year.” The Bobby Orr Hall of Fame is another major draw to the town, bringing hockey fans from far and wide to immerse themselves in the memorabilia on display. “It’s the hall’s 20th anniversary this year, and we revamped the exhibit, which was made possible through a significant investment from the province and the town,”Harris remarks.“We wanted to reinvent it and keep it relevant. We included First Nations components. We reached out for and received their input as well as financial support.” Harris talks about the annual Friendship Picnic, in partnership with the First Nations Community, which provides an opportunity to bring people together. He relays, “It’s town staff, members of council, Wasauksing First Nation staff, and their council. We get together annually to celebrate and work together on many projects. It goes a long way to building relationships with our neighbours; we want to work closely together. There are a number of First Nations communities in close proximity to the town and that is somewhat unique to this area.” Each December for the past 15 years, the Holiday Train, sponsored by CP Rail, makes a stop in Parry Sound, decorated with festive decorations, and bringing seasonal entertainment. 49 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 01 PARRY SOUND, ON