July 25, 2025
Buzz Around the Point
Dear Fellow Long Pointers,
Here's the Buzz this week:
Pickleball Tournament Wrap Up
Final Regatta Reminder — Raffle Donations & Tickets
Junior Tennis Camp
Stay Safe at the Cottage: Outdoor Fire Tips
Pickleball Tournament Wrap Up
A big thanks to Jamie and Mark Noskiewicz for organizing the tournament. It was a great day with 12 teams (24 participants) competing for the Long Point Championship.
Mark Noskiewicz and Andrew Shaw won the tournament, prevailing in a 3-game final. Their opponents, Blair Finlayson and George Aunger, put up a good fight. In the consolation final, David and Carlton Barrons won a hard-fought match against the Grieve brothers (Andrew and Chris).
Final Regatta Reminder — Raffle Donations & Tickets
We thank all the cottages who have contributed to our raffle so far, which is the biggest fundraiser for our community each year. For those cottages who have yet to support, we truly appreciate a contribution to the Regatta Raffle – either as an individual or a combined contribution across multiple cottages.
The Friday, July 25th deadline for dinner ticket purchases is here! Order today:
https://longpoint-balsamlake-22051037.hubspotpagebuilder.com/2025-long-point-regatta-ticket-sales
If you have any questions about the online dinner and raffle ticket order form, please contact Riley Doolittle.
Junior Tennis Camp
The much-loved Junior Tennis Camp is just around the corner!
You can find the sign-up sheet at the Tennis Courts, or you can also show up on the day to register. All skill levels are welcome!
Week:
Monday, August 4th - Friday, August 8th
Time:
10 AM Ages 4-7
11 AM Ages 8-14
For any questions about the Junior Tennis Camp, please contact Anna Shaw.
Stay Safe at the Cottage: Outdoor Fire Tips
With the current dry conditions and plenty of downed trees, branches, and brush still lingering from last winter’s storm, fire safety is more important than ever.
The current burn hazard index in the City of Kawartha Lakes is HIGH, so if you’re planning an outdoor fire at the cottage, please take extra care. Here's how to keep your fire safe and enjoyable:
Outdoor Fire Safety Best Practices
1. Know the Rules
Always follow local bylaws and regulations for open-air burning. Before lighting a fire, check for any restrictions or burn bans on the City of Kawartha Lakes website: https://www.kawarthalakes.ca/en/living-here/burn-bans-permits-and-by-laws.aspx.
2. Pick a Safe Spot
Use a proper fire pit or create one well away from buildings, trees, or brush. Fires should be at least 10 feet (3 metres) from anything flammable.
3. Clear the Surroundings
Remove dry leaves, pine needles, and other debris from around the fire area. A clean zone helps prevent flare-ups.
4. Skip the Gasoline
Never use gasoline or other accelerants to start a fire. Stick to kindling and dry firewood for a safer, more controlled burn.
5. Keep it Small
Small fires are safer, easier to manage, and just as cozy. Avoid large bonfires, especially during dry weather.
6. Never Leave it Unattended
Even a small fire can get out of control fast. Always have someone watching the fire until it's completely out.
7. Be Prepared to Act
Have a bucket of water, hose, or sand ready — and a shovel or rake nearby — to put out stray sparks or embers if needed.
8. Put it Out Properly
When you're done, soak the fire thoroughly, stir the ashes, and soak again until everything is cold to the touch. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
By taking these simple precautions, we can all enjoy safe, relaxing evenings by the fire—without putting the Point or our neighbours at risk.
As a reminder, Fireworks are currently prohibited and cannot be discharged in the City of Kawartha Lakes on the August long weekend.
Stay safe and enjoy the season!
Learn more from the Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Association (FOCA): Fire Safety Tips