Many fun and intresting attractions at Cold Creek Day

There were numerous presentations made at Cold Creek Day, including the grant from the Trillium Foundation, as well as appreciation from the Township to Gordon Craig for the stewardship work he's done. On hand for the presentation were Lorenzo Catuzza, representing Vaughan - King - Aurora MPP Greg Sorbara, Vijay Lekhi of the Trillium Foundation, Craig, Councillor Linda Pabst, Mayor Margaret Black, Toronto Region Conservation Authority CAO Brian Denney, Township Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture Catherine Purcell and Humber Watershed Specialist Gary Wilkins.

Cold Creek Stewardship hosted its third annual Cold Creek Day Saturday with a variety of activities for visitors from neighbouring and distant communities. Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) representative Vijay Lekhi was also on hand to announce a three-year $191,000 OTF grant awarded to the collaborative.

"I am delighted that our government through Ontario Trillium Foundation supports valuable community organizations like Cold Creek Conservation Area," commented Vaughan - King - Aurora MPP Greg Sorbara, who was unable to attend the event. "Investments that we make now help reinforce the importance of preserving our natural environment will ensure that they are protected for future generations."

Nadine Vogt of the Canadian Raptor Conservancy was showing the audience Woody, a harris hawk.

The OTF grant will be used to help redevelop the conservation area. Funding will be used to enhance the property's boardwalks, buildings and trail network to allow for increased recreational programs and environmental education.

Cold Creek Day celebrated a new chapter in the forest and wildlife area history, since King Township Parks Recreation and Culture has agreed to accept the management and operation of the site.

"We were excited to add Cold Creek to our venue of children's programs this summer" commented department director Catherine Purcell.

"Free-flight hawks and owls from the Canadian Raptor Conservancy were back this year," reported Stewardship event organizer Jim Scott. "The York Retriever Field Club demonstrated a typical dog trial; the York Regional Police Canine Unit exhibited search and rescue techniques; trail tours were conducted; the bog boardwalk was open; our King Township arborist outlined tree and shrub maintenance, and other local environmental groups showcased their projects."

Fire, this golden retriever, was helping to entertain the audience during the demonstration by the York Retriever Field Trial Club, which trains at Cold Creek.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation, an agency of the Ministry of Culture, receives funds from the government's charity casino initiative. The Foundation allocates grants to eligible charitable and not-for-profit organizations in the arts and culture, environment, human and social services and sports and recreation sectors.

Jennifer Iannello of Put on a Happy Face was on hand, painting designs on children's faces, or sometimes their arms. This was the case for Tyler Cameron, 3, of Nobleton.