Duane Hicks
Plans for Canada Day activities here are taking shape, but the “Fun in the Sun” committee still needs the community’s support to make it as awesome a celebration as possible.
FITS chairperson Cynthia Donald said while there is money allocated for fireworks, the committee is trying to generate funds to pay for other activities on July 1.
“Although we are trying our best to be financing the activities, we still need to rely on the generosity of individuals and businesses for support,” she noted.
“Your generosity will make a difference in our community by helping us to offer a fun-filled day celebrating our nation’s birthday,” Donald added.
One way to support FITS is by attending the “Sync or Swim” social slated for Saturday, May 28 at the Memorial Sports Centre auditorium.
“That’s the biggie,” Donald said. “We’re hoping to make a few dollars at the social to pay for these things.
“Hopefully, people come out and support Fun in the Sun because it would be nice to get some things going,” she added.
A lip sync battle will be held from 7-9 p.m., with the social to follow.
Four lip sync entrants have signed up so far.
Those wishing to take part are urged to contact organizers ahead of time so they can make sure they have the right music on hand for the battle.
Just contact them through their Facebook page at FITS Fort Frances.
That said, organizers half-expect some attendees to become inspired while watching and decide to go up on stage that evening—which is doable as long as the DJ has the music.
“It’s just some fun entertainment before the doors open for the social,” reasoned Donald.
Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 at the door, with all proceeds going to Fun in the Sun.
Tickets are available from all FITS committee members, as well as at the Fine Line Art Gallery on Mowat Avenue.
Committee members also will be selling tickets during the annual Gun & Hobby Show this Saturday (May 7) from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Fort Frances Curling Club.
Meanwhile, another way the community can help out is by making individual donations or by sponsoring activities, which will take place at Point Park on Canada Day.
The idea is for families to attend the parade and then go to the Point afterwards.
“We’ve got quite a few activities,” Donald said.
These include a 1K fun run staged by Energy Fitness, a fastball tournament, a volleyball tournament, an antique car show, water sports, face-painting, bouncy castles, “Water Wars,” family races, and more.
“Some entertainment is being planned—that’s still in the works—so if anybody wants to sing a song . . .,” mused Donald.
“I’m hoping maybe some of my Festival people will come out because they’re quite talented,” she added.
“We’ve got two dance groups coming out.”
Four food vendors also are confirmed so far, along with artisan tents.
A youth basketball tournament and a “Colour Run” are among the activities which may or may not happen.
And the fireworks display, overseen by Dave Coats, will ensure Canada’s birthday goes out with a “bang.”
To make a donation or sponsor an event, send a cheque to Fun in the Sun c/o Cynthia Donald, 1117 5th St. East, Fort Frances, ON
P9A 1V8
Any questions? Contact Donald at 275-9134.
You also can message the FITS Fort Frances Facebook group with any questions you have.
The FITS committee has been working for the past six months to bring back activities on Canada Day.
They are trying to bring together businesses, service groups, sports teams, and churches to offer even more activities than those listed above.
Any individuals, groups, or clubs with ideas are urged to contact them through the Facebook group.
