THE BARGE

NO ONE SHOULD FEAR THE CRITICAL APPROACH TO SOLVING A PROBLEM - THE DEBATE IS THE TRUTH SEEKER - OPERATION OF THE BARGE IS ON THE TABLE, THANKFULLY

"CRITICISM SHOULD BE THE VOICE OF IMPARTIAL AND ENLIGHTENED REASON."

"LET US AIM AT SEEING ALL WE CAN, AT GAINING AS MANY POINTS OF VIEW AS POSSIBLE. LET US ALL TRY TO BE CRITICS ACCORDING TO THE MEASURE OF OUR ABILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES. LET US AIM AT SEEING ALL WE CAN, AT GAINING AS MANY POINTS OF VIEW AS POSSIBLE. LET US COMPARE CAREFULLY AND JUDGE IMPARTIALLY; AND WE MAY DEPEND UPON IT; WE SHALL BE THE BETTER OFF FOR THE VERY EFFORT."

I didn't write this. I wish I had. It is simple and uncompromisingly honest. And it came from a man who earned great respect for his intellectual pursuit of fact, even in the clever mire of the most intricate, abstract and complicated philosophy. As an historian, he challenged accepted thought, and the milestones of history, and was despised by many of his contemporaries……usually the ones he happened to be debunking at the time. The man who wrote the words above, challenged status quo. All the time! I most heartily endorse his assertion, that critical thought is complacency's worst enemy. It is profoundly important to my own profession, also as an historian, while routinely facing unfounded historical fact, entrenched wrongly for decades, representing nothing more than a convenient fiction that was never corrected. Consider the fact it has been assumed for more than a century, that Gravenhurst, was named after a reference in a book, by American author Washington Irving. It wasn't. Believe me!

These few sentences make critics and criticism seem almost welcome and sensible, such that we might even come to believe a room of critical thinkers, could transform what may be perceived as a cold blast of negativity, into a force of proportional and effective reckoning. That we can put our criticism to damn good use, instead of casting it hurtfully as thundering jabs from afar, that offer no merit other than the temporary release of frustration and anger.

I've thought a lot about criticism over the past few days, hunkered down here at Birch Hollow, with this computer screen winking at me, trying to make sense out of a quagmired situation that seems so ridiculously burdened by civic mismanagement. How I feel myself about the the whole deal of social / recreational responsibility, volunteerism, community co-operation, and faithfulness to the old home town. You see I believe heartily in the words of Dr. William Dawson LeSueur, when he writes about the advantages of the "critical approach." Not being critical, as related to "arse-like" mucking about, to cause an argument for argument's sake, but to appreciate fully all the realities of a problem or situation. The opening quotes were written by Dr. LeSueur many years after he named our town. It was in 1862 that this literary-minded, historical type, who just happened to be a federal postal authority at the same time, named our town after the work of an accomplished British writer, poet, philosopher, William Henry Smith. LeSueur admired the work of Smith, and decided to borrow the name from the book he had recently published, entitled formally, "Gravenhurst, or Thoughts on Good and Evil." It's true. But it's also a very big honor to have been named after such an accomplished author, and entitled on the federal postal document, by a writer who became one of this country's best known literary critics and a revered Canadian historian. And he thought the critical approach was a good thing, to ferret out the truth of situations and events. As an historian he was well known for debunking what had long been held as historical truths.

So how does the recent impasse, or miscommunication regarding the Barge on Gull Lake fit into /a. critical thought, /b. William Dawson LeSueur, or /c. William Henry Smith? Well considering that I'm the lead critic in this most recent foray, to help save the deteriorating Barge, at Rotary Gull Lake Park, and help the Concert on the Barge manager stay with the program in the foreseeable future, it requires a willingness of all the critics "throwing their oars in," these days, to come to the table and work our the truths of the entertainment venue's future. Some seem to know more than others, many are just speculators and story spinners, some others are ardent supporters who are frustrated into self-imposed silence, and a few cases of exile, and rumors have been flying fast an furious around the town most recently. I can be blamed for blowing the lid off the debacle, which had seen at least one major resignation of a key volunteer, and threatened to take-out the manager himself, frustrated by the many obstacles the municipality has thrown his way over the past year. I guess then I'm retreating to the words of Dr. LeSueur because I find them appropriate to the present situation.

There was no need for the impasse at all, if town council, yes, the newly elected bunch representing the wards of our fine town, had done their homework. It is their job to know what is happening in this municipality, regardless of the department, regardless of the complexity of the issue, because inevitably, they will be asked to comment, support and vote on a motion that deals with the particular issue. Many councillors have known about certain conundrums facing The Barge, and its need for restoration, but have not extended their interest much beyond what they have read in the minutes of committee reports. Not knowing there was a tempest brewing, and some problems that could have been solved by general interest alone, it seems a good time to offer these words from Dr. LeSueur, on what should have occurred between the Music on the Barge Manager, Parks and Rec., and councillors themselves months earlier. The kind of meeting where truths are important and hearsay is struck down in its tracks. Much of what has caused chagrin, and a near collapse of this year's Music on the Barge program, could have been dealt with by proactive, insightful, progressive-minded investigation of what has become a sickly, injurious "commonplace." Plain and simple. The manager of The Barge has been trying to get improvements on The Barge for years, to little avail, and for the most part has just opted to either do them himself, take advantage of volunteer kindnesses, such as the Rotary Club's recent restorative work. He has found the town difficult to deal with over several terms, and it has just become too much of a hassle, to achieve anything more than bandaid repairs on a shoestring budget. Sounds like the name of an oft-repeated song about going nowhere fast. He has felt that criticism, on his part, wasn't appreciated at town hall. Thus my point. What criticism and critical discussion could have accomplished, ironically, in an eventual emergence of goodwill and co-operation, has become a precarious gap between those who run the concert series, and those who administer it from town hall. What LeSueur didn't write, was what pent-up criticism can cause. I can write it for him, because I've seen it up close and personal. Like dropping a cherished heirloom onto the floor, and the regret misadventure inspires, this was a close call for the town. As far as putting it back together again, well, that's not so easy.

There has been progress made in this present Barge impasse, thanks to the kindness of several councillors, who have agreed to meet with the Music on the Barge manager, Fred Schulz. At a fairly bleak moment for Mr. Schulz, when it seemed the only way out was resignation after the present season, some compassion and concern is being expressed that may herald a new relationship between manager and the Town of Gravenhurst. It may even be the case, the optimum situation, that Fred is even invited to be a part of the restoration discussions, and ultimately part of the solution to a very worrying possibility…….that The Barge may cease to exist.

While many councillors and administrators may find my liberalities with criticism, a little overwhelming at times, and terribly generalized, let me tell you, it's never, ever, criticism shot out of a cannon, for shock value or to cause grievous injury. In my measured approach, with as much tact as I can employ without tickling myself with gentleness, I practice what the good Mr. LeSueur taught me. That criticism isn't intended, by free thinkers, to confound sensible proportion, but to guarantee that reality, and its truths, aren't buried by self righteous, self-serving opinion, and the ills of faulty logic. When all the folks with a sincere interest in the future of The Barge get together, to discuss its future, I'm willing to bet a good plan can be forged……just as it was when it was originally planned and built on such sturdy posts, surviving for all these decades.

I was heartfully uplifted by news a meeting has been set up for this week with Mr. Schulz, and several municipal council representatives, to address some of the immediate problems of week-to-week operation of The Barge. Bless them for this speedy reaction to a rather stormy situation rising along the horizon.

"We thus see that culture leads directly to criticism, and that, if you would suppress criticism, you must suppress culture." W.D. LeSueur (1879).

Part 4 Gull Lake Park

CHANGES TO GULL LAKE PARK? FACT OR FICTION! BUT YOU HAVE TO WONDER WHERE THEY'RE COMING FROM!

Rotary Gull Lake Park is an urban paradise. It is a small but magnificent gem of woodland and lakeshore, with a nice little beach, boat launch, docks, a ball park, tennis courts, a snack bar, and oh yes, The Barge. It is pretty much a non-commercial quality and quantity, unlike The Wharf, which is a mix of open space but a good whack of commercial enterprise dotting the lakeshore. Rotary Gull Lake Park is an escape into the country for a lot of urban dwellers…….the joy being that it is only steps from the urban neighborhoods. It is where we came to picnic when our boys were growing up, and a place we still visit through the summer season, and into the autumn, to enjoy a lunch or dinner overlooking the lake. Of course, we have our regular seats for the Sunday night Music on the Barge Concerts. We arrive in the late afternoon with a hamper full of good stuff, and by golly, we have a great time. And we really enjoy watching all the park-goers celebrating this precious lakeside property.

Over the past two years particularly, there have been many, many rumors about Gull Lake Park, many that have in one way or another involved The Barge. As a well versed reporter of municipal goings-on, I've assured folks who have been spreading these rumors, that any attempt to close The Barge, and re-locate the Concert series to a new stage at the Wharf event field, is utter nonsense. What crazy council would agree to something like that? I've heard this version with adaptations, more than a dozen times, and some of the messengers are pretty darn reliable sources.

So do you dismiss them all, with that cavalier retort, "No way!" Lately, with some of the activities I've learned about, and comments from people I trust, it sure is becoming harder to dismiss. The Barge had a rough start this year, when the ramp supports had to be replaced, which was delayed so long it actually forced the re-location of the first two concerts of the season. Yet knowledge of the repairs was known well in advance, and it shouldn't have taken so long to undertake. The Barge manager was caught off guard and in quite a panic looking for alternate locations, with enough power and exposure to satisfy a large band and a larger audience. Fortunately the town did come through, late better than never, but we noticed last week, at least one board hadn't been properly re-attached to the ramp, and one section showed a little bounce when someone had to sidestep an oncoming loaded cart. Small details but definitely a safety concern.

The back railing was supposed to be fixed weeks earlier, and to the best of my knowledge, it was still on the drawing board…….the things to do lists, eventually. The manager has put in some extra screws but still, with the right weight and the wrong place, someone or more is going into the lake. As for their rescue, well, there isn't a life-ring or rope, pole or anything other than a cooler full of sandwich fixings to toss out to those treading water. It needs to be addressed, but these things don't seem to bother the respective department, responsible for The Barge, or the Town, who can and must over-ride a department that doesn't follow through.

Now that most of us, close to the Concert on the Barge program, are aware what the renovation challenges to the platform will be, over the next year, and that council may be reluctant to pay the large price of a rebuild, (at least at this time), the rumors are obviously picking up steam. The last one I heard was that there was a serious move afoot to build a stage on the event field, at the Wharf, and possibly even one that is mobile, to host even bigger events than what is being offered at The Barge. There was even one that suggested it would be great to have it in the pavilion of The Wharf, where patrons can also have a wonderful view of a Muskoka Lake, amidst the lakeshore band of commercial enterprises. The rumors have it that when the town has to close the Barge for restorations, they will have the capability then, to present plan "B". That leaves the supporters of Plan "A", "refurbishing The Barge" at a little bit of a disadvantage. It's the reason, actually, why supporters are mustering before this happens, to make sure council realizes they won't be able to bedazzle us with magic beans.

The Town of Bracebridge sold Jubilee Park, on Wellington Street, for a university and college campus. An historic park in a residential area. They said it was a great idea, and they found their citizen supporters, who bought into the plan. Why do we need this urban neighborhood park that's been hanging around since the 1800's, when we can gobble it up with development interest. When we found out that our own neighborhood green belt, here in Gravenhurst, (known as The Bog," was going to be sold off (potentially), to make residential lots, I was told by members of council not to worry. Everything would be fine. My concerns would be heard. Just not acted upon. I've never been one to relax on important issues. I did relax on the Jubilee Park debacle, and I didn't make a final submission tag the OMB hearing, as I should have. I felt that living in Gravenhurst, and commenting on a Bracebridge land-use issue wasn't fair. My interest was in history actually, and my own relationship for so many years, with that particular parkland. With The Bog, we challenged council, The Bog was conserved. I congratulated council for doing the right thing for the environment, and the residents of this town.

As for Rotary Gull Lake Park, no, I haven't heard that it will be turned into a subdivision, or sold off for another university campus. But I'm still quite concerned, there are individuals of authority in this town, who have no interest in the park, The Barge, or its future, and if they had a vote, might well agree The Wharf would be a more accommodating location for an entertainment venue.

So, when you hear rumors like this, and there are details that aren't exactly of twilight zone proportion, and could conceivably be in the works, what do you believe? The town certainly needs to be aware of these rumors, because some rumors have a sharp point. Take Jubilee Park for instance. I still don't believe the town sold a public park!!!!!

Better to be prepared, just in case there's some truth to the stories being told out of class!

Business Spin Off From The Barge

PART THREE

MUSIC ON THE BARGE, LOCAL ECONOMIC SPIN-OFF, AND WHY CAN'T THEY SEE THIS?

For the past three Music on the Barge concerts, this July, here at Gravenhurst's Rotary Gull Lake Park, attendance has been nothing short of fantastic. At least for Manager Fred Schulz, who usually gets a much larger collection pot, as the humanity, lining the shore, increases. And boy oh boy has it increased. I was estimating what he would have made if there was a ten dollar minimum donation. Gads. He could soon afford the Irish Rovers, or heck, maybe even the real James Taylor. But no, he would never do anything like charge an admission. Frankly he is so good at selecting acts, nobody cares what the band covers, as long as you can beach-dance to them.

When you hear stories about other entertainment venue shortfalls, and some managers complaining about their ability to attract a house-full of patrons, the Music on the Barge draw is hale and hardy. Fred Schulz should be smiling ear to ear. Of course there's a few issues these days, with his own future with The Barge program, limiting the length of time the smile stays in place. Regardless, and although it has taken more than fifty years to get this popular, there is no doubt (for those who play close attention), that Fred's line-up of ten Sunday shows, is pleasing larger and larger audiences.

I want to make this clear, so there is no confusion about the purpose of this blog series on The Barge. I have not written this material with Fred's approval, or even his encouragement to do so. He knows I'm an old fashioned reporter-kind who doesn't get bought-off. As long time friends and volunteers with The Barge program, we have a high regard for Fred because of what we've witnessed with our own eyes. We've watched his work ethic in full regalia for years, and frankly, he exhausts us. If he asks volunteers to be at The Barge at 3:00 p.m. on a concert night, he will have arrived an hour earlier, to unlock the doors, raise the flag, and clean up the assorted bird poop on the stage, and tend any other deficiencies before helpers and the musical guests arrive. As Fred has recently considered resigning from his duties at The Barge, because of some difficulties with the town administration, it would have been impossible, even if my fingers had been ripped from their sockets, to have avoided coming to his defense, in one form or another. I'm not alone. Town councillors will be finding this out presently. Those of us who know the true measure of his successes, and the spin-off advantages for the town, and its economy (and regional reputation), couldn't help but join the ruckus, when hearing their old friend was in need.

With so much belly-aching in this town about economic development and tourism attractions, I have never once heard, witnessed or read about, any one……..and I mean any one associated with the town, or its associate groups, discuss the economic advantages of Music on the Barge. I'm doubtful if any councillor has given it much thought, or felt it was worthwhile to study the wizardry of Mr. Schulz, to find out how this spin-off impacts the business community. If they did think it worthwhile, and it is after all sitting pretty close to town hall, they would be interested I'm sure, to know that many concert patrons arrive in Gravenhurst early on concert Sundays, to dine at our local restaurants. They get gas at our local stations, and get ice cream cones and concert-suitable picnic supplies at our businesses. We've seen them. In the store, in the restaurants, and then down at the park. A lot of these people we know from Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes, Lake of Bays and some from the Orillia area. I'm sure the concession operator at the park could attest to the better business climate when Mr. Schulz is running an event. Then check what happens after a concert. Just try to get an ice cream cone. A coffee and donut. A burger. The many hundreds of patrons at Music on the Barge are celebrating a great summer night in Gravenhurst, and that helps a lot of local enterprises…..who by Sunday evening, likely had experienced a usual slowdown. While we can't break it down into dollars and cents, the watchful town scout might actually see an economic boom in the making; although just a blip in the whole week, the mini rush benefits the business community as it does the concert coffers. Yet instead of crediting Mr. Schulz for his economic contribution, town hall, …..and I'm truly sorry to say this,….. doesn't seem to care whatsoever. If they did care, they would soon realize that instead of throwing down obstacles, and providing the every unpopular run-around, it would be far smarter on all counts, to invest in a man and a program, with a track record of success dating back decades.

Fred Schulz should be teaching a post secondary course, at a local college, about how to run entertainment venues. Heck, he should be running a course on tourism initiatives, and public relations in the entertainment business. Instead we find his work and accomplishments marginalized, if not totally minimized, despite the fact he delivers the goods each and every time. Even when it rains, Fred won't give up on running the concert. He'll move it to the Opera House. He just doesn't like to disappoint the park food vendor who needs the extra business, and all those who enjoy open air concerts. Is he a prince? No, just Fred. The guy who defines diligence.

At this time in local history, when there's a lot to snarl about when it comes to municipal government, and excesses, Music on the Barge is such a pleasant diversion from the landslide of negativism. Possibly folks like me do perpetuate negative connotations where presumably positivism would fare much better for all concerned. We are at a time however, where we must face the truths of councils past, and debacles that have arisen as a direct result. When we have to endure the plethora of problems, and alleged misadventures, it is remarkably nice, to sit down along the shore of beautiful Gull Lake, with hundreds upon hundreds of enthusiastic visitors, thinking that Gravenhurst must be a sort of paradise on earth. I'm one who does believe it is a paradise on earth. As does my family. Much of the feeling emanates from the way Fred Schulz operates the Music on the Barge, treating every patron as if they are known to him personally. Actually, he does know most of them, even the newcomers. His ambassadorship for our hometown, is of immense value in so many ways. When concert-goers arrive at the park, they look forward to Fred trundling out to the microphone to welcome them all to Gravenhurst. And at the end, or sort of the end, we all wait for those familiar words from the master of ceremonies….."Say, would you like to hear just a little more!" While most think the thunderous ovation is for the band. I think half is for Fred, who thinks enough of his audience, to beg a few more songs from his hired musicians.

It's easy to dismiss what you don't understand. I hope everyone who reads this, whether you are a councillor, a town employee, a regular patron, or a business owner who benefits from the crowds who attend the shows, understands the true peril of losing Fred as manager, and The Barge as an entertainment venue at Rotary Gull Lake Park. As the venue faces a large and potentially expensive overhaul this coming year, with some councillors undecided on whether it is worth the expense, it's incumbent to make you own conclusions based on facts……not as I have presented, as such, but what you can gather yourself, from experience, research, questioning or in some other association, with Music on the Barge. If at the end of the quest for information, and the debate on the council table inspires you to comment, then offer Fred Schulz a show of support for its continuation. Council does need to know how important this venue is for Gravenhurst.

Rest assured Fred didn't read or approve this blog before it was published. He may hate me for my bluntness. He may even be mad that I mentioned certain attributes and sensitivities. I will have to live with this, and offer an apology if I have embarrassed him in any way. As we know one another pretty well, after these many years, I think he'll just realize I'm just an overzealous friend, who can't come to terms with a Music on the Barge season without his enthusiastic participation. I'm sorry about that! It's just the way I am!

Gull Lake and The Barge-The Reasons We Moved to Gravenhurst

PART TWO - THE BARGE

MUSIC ON THE BARGE ISN'T RUN-OF-THE-MILL ANYTHING / IT'S AN EXCEPTION AND IT'S A SUCCESSFUL ONE

You'd think when an historian and an historical legend get together over a cold pop, for a summer afternoon bull session, they'd quickly delve into the details of one of the best known entertainment venues in Muskoka. I'd like that, I really would. But it doesn't happen.

Fred Schulz and I have known each other for long and long, and yet with our respective years of professional heritage making, and history recording, our associates might assume we'd have little interest in contemporary issues. Funny thing; we seldom if ever talk about the good old days of The Barge. It's because most discussions in the past half decade, have involved the difficulties he's been having getting each season "off the ground," so to speak. And then there are the recurring problems of dealing with town officials and departments, and trying to stretch his budget to bring in the best entertainers for the least amount of money. Then there's the rain. The indoor venue breaks his heart. He dreams of a rain free Sunday run. If he was a nail-biter, he'd have bitten down to the last knuckle by now. While few of his management overseers would find his position overly difficult or in any way stressful, it's because they don't know how it all comes together each year, and all the details that have to be dealt with weekly, to make sure the concerts go off without a hitch. When folks send in kind notes to the town, about the latest concert success, councillors undoubtedly hubris themselves to good cheer, thinking that what's Fred's, is also theirs! Complaints on the other hand. Well sir, Fred stands alone on this one, and town hall blow-hards all of a sudden feel a necessity to distance themselves from perceived controversy. Well first of all, complaints are few and far between, and most are so ridiculous as to be dismissed as just editorial opinion and nothing more.

Sure, I'd like to do a biography of the guy, because he warrants a retrospective. Somehow Fred's just not at peace these days, because he's got more worries with town hall, and staff, and deep seeded doubts he can finish the season without imploding from the growing frustration. I don't know what his other friends think but I'm concerned the town is going to lose an incredible asset due to neglect and insensitivity. I'm pretty sure he's wondering what it has all been about, these past decades of running this well appreciated Sunday night concert series. Maybe that's why he doesn't talk about it much. He's got this block, you see, that because the present and future are murky, especially due to the urgent need for an expensive restoration, that may or may not be approved by council, past accomplishments, and sentimental keepsakes, are for the scrapbook only. Yesterday's milestones have no cash value at a cash-strapped time in our town's history.

When our family decided to move from Bracebridge, to Gravenhurst, in the late 1980's, The Barge and Gull Lake were two attractions we considered as important community assets to support our decision. Sure, part of it was our passion for a smaller town. I grew up in a much smaller Bracebridge of the 1960's, and Suzanne was from the hamlet of Windermere on Lake Rosseau. For our young family, Gravenhurst offered the Muskoka we cherished. Access to the loon-thriving lakes, and the bustle had a little less urban hustle (sprawl). We knew it was the ideal place to raise a family for Muskoka-loving folks.

As for The Barge, after buying and fixing up our house, we didn't have a lot of money for entertainment. There was a recession on, and our credit cards were a smidgeon off "tilt," such that whenever we needed a car repair or a replacement appliance, even a pot or pan, we half expected sirens and bells to go off! So the very idea that we could attend a Sunday night concert, on The Barge, at beautiful Gull Lake Park, for the price of a coin donation, was a great part of life in our new hometown. We listened to the concert and the boys enjoyed the beachfront. Now we enjoy the beachfront and the boys work on The Barge, on those same summer Sundays. But they were introduced to it on the cheap, let me tell you, and thankfully Fred just winked at us, and welcomed us to the park, never looking to see that we only deposited a dollar or two in the donation bucket. I think he knew we were economizing with our choices of entertainment, when in fact, it was a little of that but mostly a matter of pure, uncomplicated, unfettered enjoyment in what we have always called "the people's park." The Barge wasn't the only reason we chose to move south to Gravenhurst. But it was a venue that clearly showed the character of the town. It was a sharing place of good neighbors and caring associations, service clubs and church organizations, that may have inspired me to say, at some time, "geez, this is so much like Mayberry." I do offer an apology if I offend anyone with this American sitcom reference but it was my favorite show growing up, and to see Sheriff Andy Taylor and his son walking with fishing poles over the shoulder, I imagined Gull Lake in the background. Yes, it's a simplistic overview and a vastly outrageous comparison, but we humans can be weak this way, and it's what I saw and felt regardless. It was the hometown I wanted to grow into, and we have done so (at least by good intention), in every way, from our new mainstream business to community involvements. I just don't do the "Mayberry" reference thing as much as I once did. Actually when I get mad at council, for some reason, usually tax increases, I might reference "Hooterville" on occasion, because there are times I feel like Oliver Douglas dealing with Mr. Hainey and Sam Drucker (not sure of spelling). Once again, I offer an apology.

When Suzanne and I head down to The Barge on these special summer Sundays, we always look forward to seeing old friends, neighbors, folks from other towns, who have come to see the show, and we quite enjoy settling down at water's edge, to visit with Fred and our boys, and their volunteer friends, as they scurry about getting the deck ready for the musical group's arrival. And we are usually amongst the last to leave. The last soul to leave the Concert on The Barge……Fred Schulz. Guess who was the first to arrive for the concert. No, he doesn't send an underling to do the manager's job. Call him old fashioned but Fred is the manager's manager, and if there are going to be any screw-ups, he's going to have first or last whack at resolving them. I think, in some ways, this is what has become so frustrating for the stalwart manager of The Barge. There's so much he can't solve today by his own diligence, and unwavering focus on all that is The Barge and its operational business. He doesn't understand how there can be a disconnect with council, or the department he deals with directly. He's not that hard to reach, or meet with, and he's about the most obliging guy on earth. So as far as a willingness to confront problems at their source, Fred is eager, almost compulsive, about being proactive. Yet each week lately, there seems to be an act of curious providence, that makes him wonder aloud, whether they are all actually signs its time to surrender his position, to the so called new vested interest. I've always thought of Fred as a sort of Dickensian character, like "A Christmas Carol's" old Fezziwig, who labored a lifetime in a profession he cherished, as it was in itself, "an endearing, nurturing way of life," and so much more than a means of financial gain alone. Fred, simply stated, by this editorialist, is "The Barge," not by the measure of girth, but of passion.

I would love one day to sit down and chat about the history of Music on the Barge, and Fred's tenure, having assumed responsibility from other highly capable town volunteers, who blazed the trail from the 1950's onward. I think, first of all, he has to be comfortable with the present and future situation, and to know that he has a future at Gull Lake. I'd be foolish to lead him on, with the suggestion his friends are going to help win-over council, and successfully fundraise for renovations. At this point, no one really knows what will come next. But to use a fence analogy, there's a lot of mending to do.

As we were cheap-skates back in the early days of our residency in Gravenhurst, and didn't put as much in the money we should have, our family wants to pay back some of this moral, fiscal debt, by providing some sweat equity…..and on this hottest day of the year, that's exactly what I'm doing. If you wish to help ensure the continuation of "Music on the Barge," and guarantee Mr. Schulz remains at the helm, please offer an opinion to the town, to Fred, or to the newspaper, because it really does count. I'd sure like to take some of the worry out of Fred's day, by offering him the same helping hand, that he has extended to many of us over the decades………..this being a wonderful time to return the favor. Without a strong community show of support, back to council, The Barge's future is clearly in doubt.

THE FUTURE OF THE BARGE

WE MUST NOT TAKE "MUSIC ON THE BARGE" FOR GRANTED - OR WE WILL GET WHAT WE GET! POSSIBLY NOTHING AT ALL!!!!

THE BIGGEST SINGLE PROBLEM WITH THE "MUSIC ON THE BARGE" PROGRAM, AT GRAVENHURST'S GULL LAKE PARK, IS "THE MANAGER." THAT'S RIGHT, AND I'M WILLING TO BET HE KNOWS IT TOO! AND HE'S BEEN CONTRIBUTING TO THIS PROBLEM FOR DECADES. NOW THIS SAME PROBLEM IS AT THE MIDDLE OF A WEIGHTY, CONTENTIOUS ISSUE, ABOUT WHETHER THE BARGE HAS A FUTURE OR NOT.

SO HERE'S THE REAL PROBLEM THE MANAGER HAS CAUSED FOR TOWN COUNCIL……., WHEN CONSIDERING THE FUTURE OF THE BARGE SUMMER PROGRAM. STRANGELY, IT HAS EVERYTHING TO DO WITH EFFICIENCY, ORGANIZATIONAL CAPABILITY, ATTENTION TO DETAIL, PRE-PLANNING, EXCESSIVE PREPARATION, CONVULSIVE WORRY, UP TO AND INCLUDING FOOD AND BEVERAGE ARRANGEMENTS FOR PERFORMERS AND VOLUNTEERS! HOW MANY ENTERTAINMENT MANAGERS, OF HIS TENURE AND EXPERIENCE, GO SHOPPING FOR INDIVIDUAL FOOD ITEMS FOR PERFORMERS, AND VOLUNTEERS, (ASTUTELY WATCHING FOR SALES ITEMS TO STAY ON BUDGET) INCLUDING ALL THE FIXINGS, SUPPLYING A TRAIN OF COOLERS, WITH A FULL ARRAY OF BEVERAGES TO KEEP EVERYONE HYDRATED? CAN YOU IMAGINE THEN, WHY THIS WOULD EVER CONSTITUTE THE CREATION OF A LONG-STANDING PROBLEM. WELL HERE'S THE REALITY OF FRED SCHULZ, MANAGER OF "MUSIC ON THE BARGE."

There are very few council members, over the decades under his stewardship, who have ever thought it was important enough, to ask Fred Schulz, even out of general interest, what his preparation work for the summer concert series involves. When does he start planning The Barge entertainment for the next season? How many phone calls, e-mails, and general correspondence does he make or send out, when he is interviewing new acts, and re-booking ones from the season before? How much will it cost, and how can he stay on budget when many quality groups, (he would love to have on-board) cost hundreds (thousands) more than he can afford? Does he have any worry about getting the quality acts? What does it feel like to gamble on a group that the public may dislike? Does he worry about Council cutting his budget, or think about the structural problems of the Barge, and how shows might have to be re-located? Simple answer. Fred starts worrying about The Barge's very next season, the day after the annual Good Brothers concert in mid August (this year on Sunday, August 14th). Although he admits he enjoys a few months after the summer season, the truth is, Fred never really stops worrying about what's up-coming for The Barge. For those who have known Fred for any time at all, this is habitual. It's the way he is. A worrier. Someone who can't stand the thought of a loose end, an "i" not being dotted, a job left half-done. So here's the big problem the legendary manager has caused Town Council. They have no idea what this man goes through in a year to keep this short but greatly appreciated summer program afloat.

So why blame Fred. Well, it's like this. He has been so thorough and persnickety all these years, managing to a fine point, and doing so diligently and effectively, that councillors and municipal staff have been sheltered from the reality of the job he has held all these years. Seeing as Fred hates to impose, and would rather deal with a majority of problems himself, he has almost completely masked what rigors the job actually demands. I think it is the reason, that when he does raise an issue, or present a conundrum he simply can't handle on his own, council and staff seem almost perturbed by the requests for assistance. Fred has routinely sought out and found solutions, and counted dearly on the faithful troop of volunteers, limiting the number of times he has to make any requests from the town whatsoever, other than what is routine. Due to his amazing efficiency, and his attention to even the smallest detail, it is understandable, that town officials don't fully appreciate the work associated with this concert series. It's only ten weeks after all! Right?

The fact that few if any would have interest in trying out his shoes, to see, feel, and labor through one or more of the summer concerts, seems to me, to be the biggest hurdle now, when it is imperative that Fred negotiate for the future, particularly the rough estimates being bandied about for needed restoration to the platform and supports of the aged Barge superstructure. Councillors and town staff, have little idea of the terrible frustration Fred is dealing with, at this moment, after having had such a rough start-up, due to needed upgrades to the ramp bridging to The Barge. The lengthy delay to correct the instability issue, necessitated a re-location of the first two concerts, to the park's Rotary Pavillion. It would have been much more difficult to accommodate the larger groups coming up in July, if the walkway work hadn't been completed as efficiently as it had been by contractors. Still, the worry about letting patrons and musicians down, was all he could think about. For a persnickety guy, who is always on or slightly ahead of schedule, it was hugely difficult to pre-plan much of anything. He was doing what a good entertainment manager does! Plan and execute. And down ant-acids by the fist-full.

So the problem with The Barge today, is that the manager has been too efficient, too detail-obsessed, too dedicated to his job, and it has shielded the town from the truths of the job itself. When Fred faces roadblocks, some placed by the department he works with, or deals with an indifferent councillor or council generally, he doesn't fully appreciate that he has had a hand creating the deficiency of understanding. Many managers, faced with the same tasks, would have been hassling council incessantly, demanding action to problem situations. Councillors and town staff would have known more about the Barge and the Concert Series, because of these regular exchanges. Fred has internalized for decades, preferring not to bother council with little issues that he could solve on his own. The result of course, has been a desensitizing of council, and the town generally, to what The Barge manager actually does in a given week, month or year. Even councillors who should know, because they have seen his work up close and personal, seem genuinely miffed about certain situations which arise, and need town intervention. Some may even blame Fred, in some way or other, as if this astute manager created the problem just to get attention. Believe me, Fred detests problems, and has many times in his life, hidden his own day to day burdens, and sacrificed his personal freedom, to look after the good folks who enjoy the tradition of the summer season at the "People's Park," at Gull Lake. For years, as a primary care-giver for his mother, few but his close associates, knew the degree of difficulty he had, each and every week, arranging alternate care, so he could spare a few hours to run the Sunday concerts. Some times he'd have to excuse himself to handle a problem at home. Who knew? Who cared? We did. His friends cared. We saw up close, a level of dedication, and commitment to his home town, that proved to us he was not only the consummate manager of managers, but he was a deeply caring individual. Fred hates to let any one down. But in the mission to provide others with what they needed, he has on many occasions sacrificed his own plans and recreation.

Finally, after all these years of shouldering ninety percent of the burden of bringing concerts to Gull Lake, Fred is truly frustrated. He wants to share some of his Barge problems, and his concerns about its future operation, especially how it all might fare during the restoration debate this year. He'd like to look after those renovations himself, I think, but finally he has met up with a situation he simply can't handle on his own. He needs our help. He needs the town to take a good look at what The Barge Concert series has done for this town, for tourism, and the local economy generally, for so many memorable summers. He needs a councillor, or councillors, to take a closer look at what it has all involved for all these years, and the work that has been done on his dime, his time, that he has never been compensated for…….but then again, he's never made a big deal of it till now, when he's unsure whether he can carry on with the concert series. It's all about disconnect. It's not something that can't be resolved, but frankly, he doesn't see it that way. He feels that there are more and more obstacles getting pushed in his way by town staff, in part, because of the reality councillors generally don't go to Barge concerts, and don't show much interest, either way, in its operational dynamic. Simply stated, they have no interest in walking a foot, let alone a mile in his well travelled, leather-bare shoes. Yet, they may be asked soon to vote for or against restoration funding, that will ultimately determine the fate of the unique venue. Would they believe what Fred tells them about the history of The Barge, and what his workload involves each year? Or will they read a report, looks at some figures, talk to their contemporaries, and vote without even talking directly to Fred, to gather detailed information about all aspects of The Barge.

On Sunday, July 17th, the Hotel California tribute to The Eagles may have set an attendance record, breaking the one the week before, when Shania Twin appeared, (for the Shania Twain tribute), filling the lakeshore with hundreds upon hundreds of eager concert goers. The concert before that brought in a behemoth crowd, and it looks like a trend for the rest of the season. If the weather holds. Fred's nightmare is rain. He despises relocating or canceling a show. He knows that moving a concert indoors upsets many of the patrons, and I'm sure if anyone had a direct line with Mother Nature, it would be Fred…..begging a little consideration for ten Sunday evenings a year!

Our family are long time supporters of The Barge and The Concert Series, and our boys, Andrew and Robert, have literally grown up, working for Fred on these special summer nights at Gull Lake. And as it is part of our own summer tradition, in our cherished hometown, we plan on standing shoulder to shoulder with Fred, and friends, to help secure a future for The Barge, and his continuation as its general manager. We have walked in Fred's shoes. They're big. Real big. But we know what this kindly gentleman goes through each year, to satisfy his loyal audiences. He is a perpetual goodwill ambassador for this town, as well as a hell of a manager. But we still must acknowledge, truthfully, that it will be a huge undertaking, in part, due to Fred's policy of internalizing and minimizing problems, to convince council to fund Barge restoration costs ahead of the 2012 season. We're going to make a nuisance of ourselves pursuing this project. We're just a bunch of die-hard traditionalists, you see, who greatly admire folks like Fred Schulz, who are passionate about the preservation of heritage, old ways and nostalgic days, and deeply devoted to the promotion of community values. On any concert night, you can look out upon that huge crowd, and see friends and neighbors, tourists and wayfarers, coming together in celebration of the good life in one of the finest places on the planet.

If you don't have a clue what I'm writing about, then get down to one or more of the final concerts of the 2011 summer season, and find out what all the fuss is about. Still confused. Talk to me. Talk to a town councillor. Of course, you can always talk to Fred!

GRAVENHURST IS FACING A POWERFUL CONFLUENCE OF NEGATIVES - THE UNDERTOW WILL BE FIERCE

With the latest report, the new town hall will need a half million dollar roof replacement isn't all that surprising, when you tally up the other surprising stuff that's been happening in Gravenhurst over the past several years. It's hard not to use words like incompetence and dysfunctional when bandying about the legacy we've been left with by a previous town council. The present council, with some hangers-on from the previous term, have a lot of explaining to do, but I don't think they'll offer much…..except, "I didn't know," and "we were shocked to find out about the roof." Stuff like that we don't need to hear. We'll just fill in the blanks as we have so many times before.

I remember when the previous council decided to fundraise for a new town hall, by selling some surplus property, such as The Bog for instance. As people stood up to our elected officials then, and demanded significant properties be removed from the surplus list, as recommended by staff, it will surely arrive again when citizens will have to defend their town, by letting this present council know, we have priorities too…..and yes competence and accountability are kind of important to us. This latest fiasco demands that "some one," or a "group" be thrown under the bus, for not making absolutely sure that the building we were acquiring was worth the money we paid. Finding out now about a sieve-roof is a wee bit late to protect the stake-holders. Us! Now at a time of fiscal shortfall, we find out another half million is needed to keep council and staff dry. There should be a lot of wet, and red faced folks at town hall. I trust they know how red faced we are, with plaster in our hair, from hitting the ceiling after reading this latest news story.

I had to stop reading a news article about the new recreation centre, in the newspaper this week, and the overview of arena renovations, and how beautiful they are…….and how pleased we should be to have such a wonderful facility in our town. Well, damnation, we paid for it, and handsomely, so bloody hell, it should be exactly what we wanted. Showing us what we paid for, with an exclamation, is nonsensical, and sickly sweet propaganda that is simply a ploy to make the other bad stuff go away. All taxpayers of this province and country, and municipality, have contributed to this beautiful place…..and it should be a dandy for the expense, and additional costs we've all had to cover in one form or another since it began. To be told how thrilled we should all be, to open this incredible facility, is daft, plain and simple, because it is the function and practicality that is most important, not the extravagances of decor….or how it makes using the ice a beautiful experience. When it comes right down to it, it's about recreation, and serving the needs of the citizens of this community. We have paid staff and contractors to provide us with this facility. It was their job to follow through. Whether they did a good job or not will require some time to sort. It should meet our recreation needs firstly, and it would be a bonus for the users of the facility to admit, on their own, that the site lives up to the hype. Or otherwise. I think it's appropriate for citizens to critique this investment, over and above what town staff decides is the publishable review.

In the next half year the present town council will have a rare but interesting confluence of negative currents, with a nasty, ever-tugging undertow. With this latest town hall roof-debacle, and mistaken grant application for the BIA, and the numerous on-going studies and investigations at this same town hall, many of us can't help but fear the capability of the present council to navigate these precarious inter-connecting situations, and protect what we know and love about our hometown character. There is a growing distrust of the present council, and surely they must be aware of this. It's not a good sign in the first year of a four year term. Depending on the outcome of investigations, and an efficiency study, this council will have a behemoth task to win back citizen confidence. Add to this curious collection of interesting stories yet-to-be-told, is the reality our tax bill will likely arrive very soon. All the real estate signs in town? Are people anxious to leave our burg? Do they have the inside track on what tax bills will look like in the future?

There should be some interesting meetings with cottager associations this summer. I hope council reps have something more substantial than the usual rhetoric and smoothing words, to make the "grasping-for-more-money" seem more natural and matter-of-fact; a gentle way of being progressive.

It's a tough economic world out there, and it's about to get worse. Is our town prepared for the economic undertow coming globally? We're in a leaky scow let me tell you, and the waters swirling beneath are threatening like never before. It would have been prudent, and progressive, to have been better off financially, before heading into this precarious global crisis, that will affect every citizen on the planet, in one way or another. We have operated this town on a bed of positives, when in reality, we have had a dry-rot for years, and simply painted a pretty color on top.

As for the nimrods who decided it was a good idea to sign-the-hell out of our newly reconstructed main street, well, it's worth knowing that we're not quite as efficient and sensible as we may have credited ourselves. While it was pleasant to look along the north end of the street and see that construction had finally concluded, the parking limit signs then, had suddenly arrived (without a ribbon cutting or anything) in all their picturesque glory. Now tell me, is this a postcard image of Gravenhurst or not? Tourists, I'm sure, will love to capture this image for posterity. If it was a District decision, then the department responsible, should go back to Hooterville where they belong. If our town played a part in the decision, we are in Hooterville. This excessive signage is stunned. It implies we're all as stupid as those who thought this was a good idea. The only positive here, is that they didn't sign all the parking spots in town. Give them time, me thinks, and they will. As for the expense, well, I can tell you it came out of our pockets.

And there's a bid for one tier government. That would be precious. And watch the tax bill soar into the stratosphere! Signing alone would bankrupt us all!