Caleb Nickerson
OTTER LAKE July 1, 2017
The citizens of Otter Lake and the surrounding area showed their patriotic spirit on Saturday as the community came together to celebrate Canada 150.
The celebration kicked off at 11 a.m. with a large parade that made its way down Avenue Martineau to the R.A. grounds, led by the Renfrew Highland Pipes and Drums. The procession had a wide variety of floats, from horses to muscle cars to a lawnmower. Local organizations like the fire department and Golden Age Club were well represented.

Following the parade, Otter Lake Mayor Kim Cartier-Villeneuve addressed the crowd, thanking them for attending the festivities and outlining the rest of the day’s activities. The local church choir lead the group in singing “Oh, Canada” in both official languages. Prizes were given out for the best floats in the parade.
The local R.A. had a host of games for the many youngsters in attendance like face painting, bubble soccer, supersized bowling and bouncy castles. Several people were refreshed in the waters of the dunk tank set up in front of the hall.
The older folks had plenty going on too, with a horseshoes tournament, bingo in the R.A. hall and canoeing along with plenty of cold ones and barbeque food.
Local musician Reg Carkner played all the classics for those that ventured over to the amphitheatre and was joined by protégé Maggie Lemay for a set.
R.A. President Shane Presley was pleased with the turnout for the event, even though it kept him on his toes all day. He was especially grateful that the rain had held off for the majority of the day.
Local MNA André Fortin and MP Will Amos made appearances in the afternoon, mingling with the revelers.
That evening the crowd was treated to the music of the Danny Sylvester Band.