It was a tremendous success. There are no other words to describe the Anten Mills Celebrating 150 Years than to say that it was a tremendous success. Literally hundreds of current and former residents of the community descended on the community centre to help celebrate 150 years as a community.
Early in the morning a small army of volunteers showed up to prepare the grounds for the event. Before 1PM visitors started arriving and made their way into the hall where displays and registration took place. By 2PM the grounds were buzzing with friends meeting up with old and new friends. Shortly afterwards, the opening ceremonies began. It was demonstrated that we truly are Canadian as people rose and joined in the singing of O Canada. Greetings were brought forth from MP Shipley, MPP Downey, Mayor Coughlin, Ward 3 Councillor Brad Thompson and Lawrence Pavan, Chair of the Anten Mills Community Recreation Association. The day’s events were outlined and the official opening and grand re-opening ceremony was held. Three former students of the school, Don McRae, Nancy Priest Coutts and Susan Muir Coulter whose families have deep rooted connections to the community were invited to ring the school bell along with Mayor Coughlin and Chair Pavan. The bell, it is believed, had not been rung in over 50 years. It had been removed from the bell tower earlier this summer and was cleaned up as it awaits future restoration with the bell tower. The activities then began in earnest. Visitors were entertained by local talent under the pavilion. The kids zone was busy with face painting, a bouncy castle and the very popular rock climbing wall. Inside the hall people mingled and reviewed the history of our community that was on display. Favourable comments were received on the new floor, ceiling and lights all which transformed the hall back to its semi original style. Current and former residents were encouraged to register their families to preserve their heritage in the village. In turn, they got to receive a delicious 150 decorated cookie and the Anten Mills Celebrating 150 Years commemorative booklet. Back outside a mini fun cornhole tournament was held and the souvenir 150 pop up booth was busy taking orders for 150 clothing and selling smaller items. Following a great performance by local band Stir it Up, the skies were lit up with a fantastic fireworks show at dusk that left everyone in awe.
Out front of the community centre a new feature was uncovered. Thanks to Monument Restoration, the 150 years of history has been forever preserved with a rock monument featuring the official 150 logo. September 13, 2025 will go down in our history as a day to remember and the 150 celebration committee is grateful for all who attended and the memories made and shared. There is still more to come so watch for future updates.
Saturday, September 27 will be another great day in the community as the Anten Mills Craft and Food Fair will take place at the community centre. Over 30 vendors will be participating under the pavilion, along the pathway and in the hall. Returning this year will be the chilli cookoff. This is a great and fun way to see who has the best chilli in the village. There will be judges and bowls of chilli will be available to try for a nominal price which will determine the community favourite. Make sure that you come hungry as the pancake breakfast in support of the Elmvale and District Food Bank is occurring as well. While they last, you can get 2 pancakes, 2 sausages, all the fixings for 2 toonies. It’s a great way to start the day and support the food bank as well. If you missed the 150 celebration and are interested in the great clothing and other merchandise then stop by the CRA booth at the fair. You will be able to purchase items, pick up a 150 celebration booklet and learn more about what the CRA sponsors and does in the community. The fair takes place at the community centre from 10 AM to 2 PM so drop by and perhaps start your Christmas shopping early.
Next on the list will be the Halloween events the weekend of October 24. Event sponsors have taken charge and more details will be posted here and on the Anten Mills Community Bulletin Facebook page so watch for more details.
Springwater Fire and Emergency Services is recruiting volunteer firefighters. This is a great opportunity to serve our community. Details are available on the Township of Springwater website.
In Midhurst this Saturday the Midhurst CRA is holding their Autumnfest. Springwater Vespra Lions will be there with their Duck Race tickets available for purchase. The race happens that afternoon so consider supporting the Lions and the great work they do.
There hasn’t been much activity from the bears this year. As they prepare for the winter season and hibernation do be mindful of your bird feeders as they do like to stock up on bird feed.
On a personal note, my family and I were humbled by the announcement at the 150 celebration when the gardens at the community centre were renamed as “The Gannon Gardens”. This came totally unexpected and we are very appreciative of the announcement. We have been part of the community for over 44 years and do what we can for the community because we are grateful to be part of it. Thank you for your thoughtful gesture.
That’s all for this week. THANKS for READING, BE WELL and STAY SAFE!