Dozens of patriotic Canadians and people who will endure just about any type of weather for free cake (or both) jammed the ACT Shelter at North Bay's waterfront for a cake-cutting ceremony marking Canada's 150th birthday.
Rain poured down relentlessly and winds whipped up as dignitaries gave their speeches, the hungry masses inching forward for cake and watermelon, as well as shelter from the downpour.
The Canada Day Road Race was held as planned, but within an hour of the cake-cutting ceremony, word from the City was that the remainder of the day's events were being cancelled due to inclement weather.
The public service announcement reads:
The Parks, Recreation and Leisure Services Department wishes to advise the public that due to weather The Canada Day Committee & City of North Bay has cancelled the daytime Canada Day activities. If the weather clears, the evening programming including the fireworks will continue.
Safety of event participants is our number one priority.
Scheduled evening entertainment includes performances from High Holy Days and Cory Marquardt, plus a fireworks display.
Check the City of North Bay's Facebook page for updates throughout the day, although when the weather was in doubt for Lead Up to Canada 150, Mayor Al McDonald's page was the go-to spot for information.
Co-owner Tom Richardson of the Voyager Inn has also announced that Ribfest is a go, rain or shine, using both inside and outside facilities, adding that ribs will continue to be served until 10 p.m. Sunday night.
