Melancthon begins new tradition with 163rd Anniversary

July 22, 2016 · 0 Comments

By Marni Walsh

Residents of Melancthon Township gathered at Horning’s Mills Community Park last month to begin a new annual tradition as they celebrated the 163rd birthday of their rural municipality.

Organized by the Horning’s Mills Park Board, the simple, but favoured country itinerary of an outdoor barbeque, ice cream, good music and fireworks made for a family friendly celebration to mark the occasion.

“Volunteers pulled together to create a memorable night for families, friends and neighbours with a spectacular fireworks display generously donated by the Township,” said Board member Councillor Jim Webster.

Melancthon Mayor Darren White said he was very pleased with the event.

“It’s great to see these type of community-building events coming back to our township after the turmoil of the last number of years,” he said.

Melancthon residents were torn apart over the Highland Companies’ American hedge fund bid for an open pit mine on prime farm and source water land between 2006 and 2012.

The company’s application was finally denied by the Province after a long and hard fought battle led by the North Dufferin Agricultural and Community Taskforce (NDACT). NDACT gave rise to its widely recognized legacy movement Food and Water First.

“This first annual event was a roaring success and marks the start of a new tradition for our small but vibrant community,” said Councillor Webster. It provides a much needed gathering for our residents to get together and be proud of what we have here in Melancthon.

“Admission was free for over two hundred people who gathered on lawn chairs and picnic blankets, entertained by the country western sounds of talented local performers Gary Heaslip and Kristin Scott.

“While kids played and neighbours socialized, a barbecue and other refreshments raised funds for the Community Park and future events. At dusk, all were dazzled by an impressive array of brilliant fireworks set off by volunteers Troy Gallimore and Tom Thayer.”

Councillor Webster extended: “Warm thanks to the many volunteers and residents who supported this event with their hard work, attendance, and donations.”

“The volunteers did an amazing job,” added Mayor White, “I look forward to a bigger and better event next year for this annual celebration of Melancthon Township’s birthday.”