F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 4
W O O D T U R N I N G • T H E P L AY T H AT G O E S W R O N G • O D AC
Marketing With Soul Learn how to grow your business by attracting happy customers through compassion, trust, and authenticity in your marketing. Find out more at lobomedia.ca
We are all in this together T he essence of this statement rings true for our plant community as well as us humans. Research has shown that plant life has developed this mutual aid process over time to support and protect the wider community in the natural ecological system. This “Wood wide web” first researched by Dr. Suzanne Simard, a Forester and ecologist based in British Columbia, describes an underground communication system between trees within a forest. The trees, plants, and fungi communicate through an underground fungal network called mycorrhizae to help each other and protect the overall health of the forest. This information transfer happens when there are weaker members of the forest community requiring nutrients from stronger members. Also in distress situations, plants were observed to send out chemical distress signals down the network warning the colony against imminent danger and allowing the community the chance to guard themselves in time. This fungal network shares the resources of the soil by carrying the nutrients through a system of hyphae connecting the trees and in return receives a food source in the form of carbon-rich sugars. This web system encourages the protection and sustainability of the forest, each tree is aware of its role as an individual and its role in the ecological community of the forest. This hypothesis offers an interesting approach to the ecological community of our gardens. Just as all our water sources are connected
through tributaries, streams, rivers, and lakes, our gardens can also be an ecological web system. For this reason, planting native trees and shrubs on our properties creates a network that is compatible with the local environment, therefore optimizing its resilience to climate change. A native mix also provides food and shelter for our native, bees, birds, and animals. Native plants can support 10-50 times as many species as non-native plants. Planting our gardens with the right trees and shrubs, perennials and ground cover helps to stabilize soil, prevent erosion, provide biodiversity in your garden and community, provide growing areas for vegetables etc, creating more shade to cool our urban environment, and helping clean the air, while offering us a restorative space to relax and engage with nature. We incorporate native plants into all our garden designs, choosing the right plants for patio areas, rain gardens, lawn alternatives, and all garden spaces. Creating these ecosystems with the right plants can be sustainable and beautiful. If you are planning your garden for 2024, consider some native plants this year. No matter the size, whether it is a large garden or one container on your deck or balcony, they will reward you. They require less watering and maintenance, less fertilizer, and no pesticides. If we all incorporate some into our gardens, we will all benefit in the future. If we think of our garden as a tree in the forest we can understand how to connect nature through our community as living corridors providing a healthy community for our future.
parklanelandscapes.ca | 705-327-0064
The Villager | Feb 2024 3
February 2024 PUBLISHERS Jiun Liao and Mikaila Bolzonello SUBMIT STORIES AND EVENTS We want to hear from you! If there’s anything interesting, a topic you would like covered, or an event you want the community to know, share it with us: villagermagazine.ca FIND THE VILLAGER The Villager is delivered online to subscribers through villagermagazine.ca. It is also delivered in print throughout Severn, Orillia, Ramara, and OroMedonte locations. Visit our website to find print locations. ADVERTISING Find the best way to reach your audience through The Villager. Contact us at 705-712-3237 or email hello@villagermagazine.ca
From The Publishers
DEADLINE Prearranged editorial contributions as well as advertising space must be received or booked by the 15th of every month.
I
On our cover: Molly Farquharson, hibernationarts.ca
© The Villager Magazine All rights reserved. No reproduction by any means or in any form may be made without prior written consent by the publishers.
4 The Villager | Feb 2024
t finally seems like winter has arrived! At our house it officially takes us a solid 20 minutes to get out of the door to go anywhere. Ah, the joys of a young family. We’ve spent some time skating and are planning to explore some local trails this winter as well. Even though it is cold outside, fresh air is good for the soul and helps beat the winter blahs. On my bucket list is experiencing some outdoor skating trails. I’ve been talking about them for years and just haven’t committed the time. To be honest, my skating skills leave quite a bit to be desired and without boards to slam into to help me stop, I don’t know how I’ll make it around an outdoor trail…
We are excited and nervous about the upcoming year with The Villager. We keep hinting at some changes and we will update you soon with details. We’re just solidifying our plans and goals. Don’t worry, the magazine will live on in all its glory! Our plans involve adding some extra special content for you to enjoy. We hope our issue brings some sunshine into a typically grey winter month. Until next time,
Mikaila & Jiun
We are hiring! inquire in person Home Hardware has what you need! Lawn & Garden Supplies • Power Tools • Paint & Supplies • Extensive Hardware Items • Lighting • Electrical, Plumbing & Building Supplies • Outdoor Power Equipment • Household & Décor Items ...and more! •
info@homecomfortcare.ca
www.homecomfortcare.ca
705-689-2611 3375 Muskoka St. Washago HOURS: Mon. – Thurs. 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Fri. 7:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sat. 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Need Help With Federal Services? We've got you covered
You’ll Love Our Flooring
ORILLIA 575 WEST ST. SOUTH, SUITE 12 ORILLIA, ONTARIO L3V 7N6 705-327-0513
MIDLAND W-366 MIDLAND AVE. MIDLAND, ONTARIO L4R 3K7 705-527-7654
adamchambersmp
adamchambersmp.ca
You’ll Love Our Prices Thank you to our loyal customers and our amazing knowledgeable and professional staff. To understand why we have had the honour of serving Orillia for 30 years, drop in today or call for personal consultation. adam@adamchambersmp.ca
444 West Street South, Orillia • 705-329-0202 www.SunshineCarpet.ca
Artist Spotlight
M
olly Farquharson is a local fibre artist who uses thread, yarn, buttons, fabric, and found objects in her stitcheries. She grew up surrounded by fibre creations by her mother, grandmother, and greatgrandmothers and went on from following patterns to creating her own work. In addition, she lived and taught in the US, Japan, and Turkey, from where she collected many kinds of fibre art. Some of her work is punny, some ‘de nature’, and some abstract, with attempts to create order from randomness and to explore various genres and colours. She calls her work ‘breaking the rules stitchery’, as unlike the strict rules of cross-stitch, she uses various threads and yarns and changes direction at will. In 2015 she moved to Orillia from Istanbul. The first winter seemed brutal, so when she entered the arts scene here, she called her art Hibernation Arts, which then became the name of her gallery.
6 The Villager | Feb 2024
She has shown her art at Tango, Studio 204, Art & Home, Orillia Museum of Art and History, and various other locations. Finally in 2018 she opened her own gallery, Hibernation Arts, in the Arts District on Peter St. It has become a welcoming location for many local artists in media from painting to poetry. She has been on various committees, including the Orilllia Fine Arts Association, Orillia District Arts Council, and the Public Art Committee. She has also organized the Friday night Art Walks in downtown Orillia over the past few summers.
You can follow Hibernation Arts on Instagram and Facebook or check out her website at hibernationarts.ca.
MY F Y I CORNER … The Year at a Glance….
Here is the beat on our Real Estate Market’s Annual sale prices for 2022 vs 2023* This information is based on the sales of residential free-hold non-waterfront properties.
ORILLIA average sale prices decreased by 3.6% to $647,353. RAMARA average sale prices decreased by 12% to $703,435. SEVERN average sale prices decreased by 12% to $783,866. ORO-MEDONTE average sale prices decreased by 1% to $1,106,790. *Data provided from our Matrix MLS System
Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative
705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775
It takes a village to achieve great things. Share your story with us.
www.leah-cavanagh.c21.ca | leah@leahccavanaugh.ca 705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775 www.leah-cavanagh.c21.ca | Serving leah@leahccavanaugh.ca Orillia & District
Serving Orillia & District Should you wish a confidential consultation on your Real Estate needs, please allow me to put my 20+ years of knowledge & experience to work for you. Call or email me anytime leah@leahccavanaugh.ca This advertisement is not intended to solicit property for sale or buyers under contract
$$$ MONEY TO LEND HOMEOWNERS $$$ We have very competitive rates and fees!
$$$$ LET’S GET YOUR BILLS PAID!! $$$ APPLY ONLINE OR BY PHONE
705-259-3974
Pay off CERB, consolidate debt, Self employed, good/bad credit, Mortgage, tax or credit arrears, renovations short or long term
www.ontario-widefinancial.com
WE HAVE FLEXIBLE RATES/ TERMS.
ASK ABOUT OUR NO PAYMENT PREPAID MORTGAGE PROGRAM
Even if you in a consumer proposal
OR PAST BANKRUPTCY! IN OR OUT OF TOWN, COTTAGES FOR ANY PURPOSE
FAST TURN AROUND
ONTARIO-WIDE FINANCIAL FSRA LICENCE #12456 LEVEL2
CALL FOR A QUOTE
ETHICAL AND FRIENDLY SERVICE!! WE CAN HELP WITH ANY SITUATION!!
We are not a bank but a bank alternative that has much more flexible guidelines for approving homeowner loans.
All are Welcome to The
Couchiching Conservancy Annual General Meeting By Courtney Baker
W
e are happy to invite you to our 30th Annual General Meeting Saturday March second from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Hawk Ridge Golf and Country Club (1151 Hurlwood Ln,
Severn). If you have ever wondered how conservation works in your community, this is the meeting for you. We will attend to business, celebrate our successes in 2023 and enjoy guest speaker, Waubgeshig Rice, best selling and award winning author of Moon of the Crusted Snow, Moon of the Turning Leaves and more! Not only is an Annual General Meeting a great chance to hear from celebrated authors and thinkers, it is crucial for non-profits, offering community members a platform to review achievements, discuss future plans, elect leaders, and ensure transparency, it also fosters community engagement and shared decision-making. It is the best opportunity of the year to gather with our community of naturalists, environmentalists and all-round great people. There will be a special buzz with The Conservancy’s 30th anniversary on our minds. It is amazing what can happen in 30 years in an organization. From humble beginnings, friends around a table who decided to do something about the development pressures in our region, to becoming one of Ontario’s leading land trusts with three hundred volunteers and nine staff that has helped protect and care for nearly 15,000 acres of prime conservation land in the local area; The Couchiching Conservancy has moved from strength to strength.
8 The Villager | Feb 2024
We have seen great change in not only in the climate movement but in the climate itself in the past three decades, but one thing that has remained the same, our desperate need for conservation. Across the planet organizations like ours have fought hard to keep homes on the map for everything from Bumble Bees to Elephants, creating connections across boarders for life to thrive as it has for generations. Here at home The Couchiching Conservancy we are dedicated to this work in and we will not stop protecting healthy habitats for our local wildlife. Local actions can bring about global changes and it is through this grass roots work that an area more than twice the size of the City of Orillia has been protected. There is always more work to be done and we invite you to dip your toe in, you may just be surprised by how many people you know who are already part of the climate movement. From volunteers, to donors, to founders and board members, it’s your chance to get to know us better! Members can vote and if you’re new to the Conservancy, you can see how we operate, ask questions about our work, our Nature Reserves, and impact. Come, soothe your climate blues with the balm of community - join us March 2nd! Courtney Baker is Office and Acquisition Coordinator at The Couchiching Conservancy, a local land trust dedicated to protecting nature for future generations. www.couchichingconserv.ca
Jack & Sparrow Haute cuisine advertising, Take-Away style.
Dr. Kathy Marchildon & Dr. Hilary Rodd 3843 Soules Road, Severn L3V 0V3 www.lakecountryanimal.ca 705-326-4800
Mon., Thur., Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Tues., Wed. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Serving People & Their Pets Since 2006
DESIGN WEBSITES SOCIAL MEDIA PHOTOGRAPHY COPYWRITING ... AND MORE!
• Preventative Care
• Surgical Services
• Diagnostic Testing
• Veterinary Dental Care
Is Your anion Pet Comp lue? B Feeling
hecker at t Health C Try our Pe animal.ca ecountry they www.lak u decide if to help yo tion. n te at ediate need imm
JACK & SPARROW
hi@jackandsparrow.com | jackandsparrow.com
Now Available at:
Joys of Woodturning! By Allan Korkola
W
ho would have thought? Here I was questioning myself, in my mid-80’s in retirement, as to the wisdom of spending big dollars to buy a wood lathe, tools, and accessories on something that for years has “interested“ me. Yet here was a fellow member of the Simcoe Woodturners’ Guild telling me at his age of 92 that he was selling all of his woodturning equipment so that he could buy new equipment because his was getting old. Wow! Here I am worried I am doing something foolish as the only woodturning experience I have goes back to grade 8 when in our brief exposure then to industrial arts I proudly turned a candle stick holder for my Mom. One thing I have discovered as a novice woodturner is the opportunity for creativity. More than once in my early experience and to the present I have discovered that within a block of wood one can discover beautiful and unexpected end results. You may start out to turn a large bowl but it ends up being a delightful small mushroom for a Grandchild. As you turn the wood reveals its grain and pattern and takes you to a gratifying outcome. It happens all the time.
10 The Villager | Feb 2024
Our Simcoe Woodturners’ Guild I suspect not unlike other Guilds, is largely composed of retirees, both men and women from a variety of interesting careers, all finding enjoyment in a solitary past time, yet brought together now via a common interest. I am continually surprised with the quality of turnings members have achieved. Many have gone past the stage of turning vessels and canisters to making segmented artistic works of art. Some turnings have 1000s of pieces of varied woods embedded in a complicated pattern. Marvelous! And often turnings are salvaged from what would otherwise be scrap pieces of wood. Nothing wasted! Not only are the turnings themselves a work of art, but the finishing of some projects into glass-like surfaces is very impressive. A lot of insight and skill is required to achieve the level many of these old folk display regularly. By the way our Province has several Woodturner Guild “Chapters”’ so if you are interested there is a good chance that there is a Guild not far from you, ready to welcome you. As one might suspect the WGO also is affiliated with the American Association of Woodturners (AAW) that
also has Chapters throughout the USA. Both Provincial and National bodies organize workshops and conventions where one can pursue their interests to a higher level. I have even heard that some ship cruises center their onboard itinerary to woodturning seminars and demonstrations. No shortage of contacts wherever you go. And those contacts, locally and abroad, result in new friendships and new experiences. Nothing to scoff at! This may be especially true in retirement years when we may no longer be in daily contact with a number of working colleagues. A few of us have noticed a growing interest in woodturning from established and new residents to our Washago area. So we are wondering if there are sufficient local individuals, male or female, novice or experienced, young or old, in forming an informal group to meet periodically to share information and experiences pertaining to wood turning. If you interested contact Allan at akorkola@me.com If interest is sufficient we could meet monthly at different individual workshops/garages to demonstrate techniques, do “Show and Tell,” and tell tales. Not sure? Well come out and see if this is a hobby you might want to pursue. My experience is that woodturners are ready to share information and be most supportive. Everyone goes through the same turning experience! Is there a message? I guess as the adage goes, you’re never too old to learn. If you are blessed with good health it is just a matter of opening yourself to new experiences. I for one can assure you there are many happy outcomes in doing so.
The Villager | Feb 2024 11
Beef Julia Child’s
Bourguignon O
By Chef Melanie
ne of Chef Melanie’s biggest inspirations is Chef Julia Child. Starting her career in Culinary in her late 30’s, she’s been a big inspiration to Chef Melanie. This is a classic and no one could write a better version. So during these cold and dreary months of winter, she encourages you to make something warm, hearty and classic from one of the best.
Ingredients • 1 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 6 ounces (170g) bacon, roughly chopped • 3 pounds (1 1/2 kg) beef brisket, trimmed of fat (chuck steak or stewing beef) cut into 2-inch chunks • 1 large carrot sliced 1/2-inch thick • 1 large white onion, diced • 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided) • 1 pinch coarse salt and freshly ground pepper • 2 tablespoons flour • 12 small pearl onions (optional)
• 3 cups red wine like Merlot, Pinot Noir, or a Chianti -- for a milder sauce, use only 2 cups of wine • 2-3 cups beef stock (if using 2 cups of wine, use 3 cups beef stock) • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • 1 beef bullion cube, crushed • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (divided) • 2 bay leaves • 1 pound fresh small white or brown mushrooms, quartered • 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions TRADITIONAL OVEN METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Heat the oil in a large dutch oven or heavy based pot. Sauté the bacon over medium heat for about 3 minutes, until crisp and browned. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large dish and set aside. 3. Pat dry beef with paper towel; sear in batches in the hot oil/bacon fat until browned on all sides. Remove to the dish with the bacon. 4. In the remaining oil/bacon fat, sauté the carrots and diced onions until softened, (about 3 minutes), then add 4 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Drain excess fat (leave about 1 tablespoon in the pan) and return the bacon and beef back into the pot; season with 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper. Sprinkle with flour, toss well and cook for 4-5 minutes to brown. 5. Add the pearl onions, wine and enough stock so that the meat is barely covered. Then add the tomato paste, bullion and herbs. Bring to a simmer on the stove. 6. Cover, transfer to lower part of the oven and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fall apart tender (adjust the heat so that the liquid simmers very slowly). 7. In the last 5 minutes of cooking time, prepare your mushrooms: 8. Heat the butter in a medium-sized skillet/pan over heat. When the foam subsides, add the remaining 2 cloves garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then add in the mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, while shaking the pan occasionally to coat with the butter. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Once they are browned, set aside. 9. Place a colander over a large pot (I do this in my clean kitchen sink). Remove the casserole from the oven and carefully empty its contents into the colander (you want to collect the sauce only). Discard the herbs 10. Return the beef mixture back into the dutch oven or pot. Add the mushrooms over the meat. 11. Remove any fat off the sauce( if any) and simmer for a minute or two, skimming off any additional fat which rises to the surface. 12. You should be left with about 2 1/2 cups of sauce thick enough to coat the back of a spoon lightly. 13. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of stock. If the sauce is too thin, boil it over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until reduced to the right consistency. 14. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt and pepper, if desired. Pour the sauce over the meat and vegetables. 15. If you are serving immediately, simmer the beef bourguignon for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through. 16. Garnish with parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice or noodles. 17. To serve the following day, allow the casserole to cool completely, cover and refrigerate. 18. The day of serving, remove from refrigerator for at least an hour before reheating. Place over medium-low heat and let simmer gently for about 10 minutes, basting the meat and vegetables with the sauce.
Chef Melanie is the owner of Eclectic Café and Catering in Orillia. They use high quality seasonal ingredients from local farmers to produce their amazing dishes.
12 The Villager | Feb 2024
Villager Marketplace
WONDERING WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH? I can let you know, call me!
Family Owned & Operated
Serving Simcoe County & Muskoka
705-205-0713 sales@washagoplumbing.com
Better Value Plumbing & Heating Inc. • For all your plumbing and hydronic needs •
230 Coldwater Rd. W., Orillia, ON L3V 3M2 Heather Howe Sales & Marketing Manager
T 705-325-7300 C 705-345-7245 heather.howe@atriumretirement.ca
www.atriumretirement.ca
705-689-6676
(689-NORM)
“Proudly serving the local community.”
Sit back and enjoy the comfort of your home and cottage!
No Water?
MAINTENANCE RENOVATIONS CONSTRUCTION CARPENTRY
New Installations and Repairs on Wells and Lake Draw Systems
Darren Rutledge • 25+ years of experience Call or email today 416-527-0507 rutledge.dt@gmail.com
Just Fix It 705-689-RICK (7425)
Pump & Electric Motor Repairs Call RICK Today
Over 27 Years Experience
Licensed by Ministry of Natural Resources
Reach your customers, wherever they are Advertise your business here for as little as $70/month. Email hello@villagermagazine.ca or call 705-712-3237
THE PLAY THAT GOES
WRONG
By Shannon Hawke
“T
he show must go on!” and in Mariposa Arts Theatre’s upcoming production, The Play That Goes Wrong, the statement has never been more true. Running at the Orillia Opera House from February 8th to 18th, this murder mystery turns into a comedy of errors with disastrously hilarious results. A play-withina-play, it’s the opening night of the Cornley Drama Society’s 1920s whodunnit, The Murder at Haversham Manor, but the show takes an unexpected turn as it starts to unravel. What do you do with an unconscious leading lady? Actors who can’t remember their lines? And where on earth is Winston? Part Sherlock Holmes, part Monty Python, The Play That Goes Wrong is an Olivier Award winning production, written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields, and presented by MAT in arrangement with Dramatists Play Service under license from Mischief Worldwide Ltd. Bringing it to the Mariposa Arts Theatre and the Orillia Opera House stage has been a creatively satisfying, albeit daunting, task. Director Dave Graham has been performing and directing with Mariposa Arts Theatre for 40 years and was excited to jump into this show, “I haven’t directed a MAT show since 2019 and had been looking to get back into it. When I saw the title, I felt like that was my kind of show - something silly and farcical.”
The antics ramp up with an incredible cast of local actors. Some familiar faces to Mariposa Arts Theatre include Ian Munday, Josh Halbot, Laura Bainborough, Samantha Cole and Spencer Hipwell. The show has also brought on some newcomers to MAT including Matthew Peart, Shannon Howes, and Kristen Jones. The show’s superstar team of understudies, Peter Merkle, Mike Frustaci, Savana Collier and Veronica van Muyen, add their own hilarious flare and will be on center stage during the run’s Thursday, February 15th performance. “The highlight of the rehearsal process has been marvelling at the creativity and imagination of the cast and the crew,” says Graham, “So much of this show is dependent on the cast’s willingness to be open to try different (usually silly!!) things, and on the crew’s support and ingenuity. It’s been such a joy to work with such an open-minded team.” One of MAT’s most technically challenging shows to date, the production and stage crew have been working miracles to bring the comedy to the stage alongside the acting troupe. Graham teases the masterful work happening behind the scenes, “but I can’t give a lot of things away! I just know that you’re going to laugh some of those winter blahs away. When you discover the secrets behind Brian Halbot’s set design and the performances of this talented cast, get ready for a bit of mystery, and a whole lot of silly!” For more information and tickets, visit www.mariposaartstheatre. com/tickets or call the Orillia Box Office at 705-326-8011. Group rates are available where you can save $5 on each ticket for 10 or more tickets. Offer available through phone sales only.
Please note that the Orillia Opera House is undergoing an elevator renovation during the run of this production and the Gordon Lightfoot Auditorium will not be fully accessible. For more information please contact the Orillia Opera House Box Office.
14 The Villager | Feb 2024
Birds At Your Feeder By Matt Thompson
I
t’s that time of year when we’re all settled inside, peering out the window at the various piles of white snow and wondering when it might melt away. If one of your winter pastimes is feeding the birds, keeping watch on which birds are coming to visit is important, especially during migratory seasons, but also monitoring those birds for unusual characteristics or behaviour. While we continue to battle our own health emergencies, our feathered friends are doing the same with the rise of H5N1 avian influenza. Not only does it impact our wild population of birds but also the poultry industry as these farmers have to keep extra vigilant that none of their chickens become infected or remain in close contact to wild birds, like near a pond. There is no cure for this flu and is often fatal within a short period of time ranging from 5 to 14 days. While transmission to humans is rare, there is no known evidence suggesting the disease is contagious between people. Few cases of the flu have been reported in wild mammals. Humans can stay safe by avoiding contact with wild birds and their feces. Birds that are infected show signs of a swollen head, neck or around the eyes. They will have poor coordination and have respiratory problems such as coughing or sneezing. If they do arrive at your bird feeder, you may notice that they won’t be eating much. Monitor the bird as much as you can and don’t be afraid to ask for advice from a local
wildlife rehabilitator. You may decide to bring your feeder indoors for a few days to help protect other birds that are visiting your feeder. Birds need social distancing too! Disposing of dead birds should be carried out with caution by wearing gloves and can be placed in a ground hole, or placed in a plastic bag for garbage collection. Of course you don’t want your pets to find these dead birds. It’s always a good idea to clean your feeder every couple of weeks with dish soap and warm water, depending on how much use the feeder gets. If you are noticing birds hitting your windows frequently then this may indicate that your feeder is too close to the house or the window is large enough to mirror the outdoor environment which can confuse birds. For tips on making your windows bird safe, visit https://birdsafe. ca/window-options. Birds that do glance off the glass will require quiet and rest. Heavier impacts are difficult to tell the severity of injuries so it’s best to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. When outdoors on a hike it’s recommended to keep your distance from waterfowl and avoid hand feeding in order to help protect yourself and the feathered friends during the winter months. Avoid creating feed piles, or tossing food on the ground where birds and other wildlife can congregate. Avoid using breads and nuts as these are not part of their natural food source.
Matt Thompson is a Conservationist with Ardtrea Nature
The Villager | Feb 2024 15
VILLAGER VENTURES:
Making the Most of a Muddy & Green Winter By Hillary Handy
W
ell, it has been a very strange wintery season thus far in our region. Uncharacteristically warm temperatures made for a green and grey Christmas, followed by a wet New Year’s Eve. Parents had to be very creative over the Christmas holidays to keep little ones entertained. January didn’t prove to be much better in the classic winter weather department. We did have pockets of snow and snow storms, so that was something, complete with Snow Day bus cancellations! But also considerable rain which promptly melted the accumulated snow. We keep waiting for winter to arrive! I’m hoping our luck has changed by the time you’re reading this and that you’ve been able to enjoy the wintery fun that North Simcoe can offer. We are so fortunate to have access to some incredible outdoor winter activities in our region. May February be the time we finally participate and celebrate a true winter. Leading up until now, I feel like we didn’t get to the ski hills often enough, go tobogganing, or even visit an outdoor rink. But… just in case we have been dished out another serving of perpetual grey this February, I have some ideas to make the most out of a green winter for you and the family: • Visit the library once a week- The various libraries across our region host some incredible programming for children and adults. Not to mention the obvious, the ability to borrow new books. Most libraries also have games, kits and equipment you can borrow too! This is a free outing that is sure to pass the time and be enriching for all. • Go Swimming at the Orillia Recreation Centre- This seems to be an activity in the opposite direction of winter, but if you can’t beat
16 The Villager | Feb 2024
‘em, join ‘em. If winter refuses to be winter, then we shall dream of summer! • Skate Indoors- There are several rinks in our area that are indoor. Check out the free skate schedule and lace up those skates! It’s not the same feel as an outdoor pond, but it will get your skating fix in. • Do a house swap with a friend in a different part of the province- Times are tough with the current state of the economy and post-Christmas budgeted. One way to explore is by swapping houses with a friend or family member. The change of scenery alone is good for everyone’s mental health. You can also make a list of some fun and cheap (or free) activities to do in each of your respective areas. Once you make it to your destination, it’s as if your itinerary has been planned for you and you just have to show up! • Go check out the Swans in Washago- If you didn’t do it last month with our tip in the January issue, now is your time! Check out these majestic birds in all their glory as they await spring. • Bust out the scooters and bikes- Go for an adventure on some of our many paved paths or roads. We rode scooters on Christmas Day around our subdivision because why not. If there’s no snow, we might as well enjoy the pavement. • Enjoy a wagon-ride- Forget hitching up the horses and the sleigh, go for a tractor ride instead. My uncle thought it would be a good idea to go for a hay ride on Boxing Day. There was mud on mud and we got the tractor and trailer so incredibly stuck. It wasn’t much of a ride, but it certainly was a family Christmas we won’t forget anytime soon! I have seen many a UTV and even lawn mower moseying around our neighborhood…especially when snowmobiles are a no-go. Hopefully this list is in vain and the snow has finally arrived as you are nestled at home reading this by the fire, cuddled up in a cozy blanket and tapping into some serious hygge. But if winter has failed to show up, at least this Villager has your back with some emergency activities planned. Let us know what you and your Villagers get up to this February!
New Patients Welcome!
SNOW CLEARING
8291 County Rd. 169, Washago • 705-689-6600
Cou nty R
d 16
Muskoka
Street
Street
9 Rama Rd
Harry Knight cottage_country@hotmail.com 705-327-3823
Washago Family Dentistry Hamilt on
Book with us today for the season. Residential & Commercial
• Exams • Cleanings • Sport Mouth Guards • Night Guards • Whitening • Mild Sedation (nitrous oxide/laughing gas)
• Bonding • Veneers • Crowns • Bridges • Implants • Dentures
MUSKOKA DENTURE CLINIC MARK J. FANTUZ, DD Denture Specialist
Complete and Partial Dentures Relines and Repairs Free Consultations
Serving Severn, Muskoka & Area for 25 years
705-687-5152 • 1-800-315-5229 455 Muskoka Road N. Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1G3 Email: info@muskokadenture.com Website: www.muskokadenture.com
February A HIGHLIGHT OF COMMUNIT Y EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS TRIVIA @ QUAYLE’S February 1 @ 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm $12.50 Per Player Doors open 5:00PM, Trivia Starts at 6:30PM Quayle’s Brewery SATURDAY APRÈS AT CRAZY HORSE February 3 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm SATURDAY 2PM – 5PM at CRAZY HORSE Live music will resume at approximately 7pm on Saturday nights. Horseshoe Resort
SEVERN BRIDGE COMMUNITY HALL LUNCHEON February 5 12:00pm Pasta Lunch, including beverage and dessert. $12 per person. 1035 Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG By Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer, and Henry Shields Directed by Dave Graham February 8 – 18, 2024 Thursdays – Saturdays: 7:30pm, Sundays: 2:00pm At the Orillia Opera House
B.I.C challenges students and teachers to reimagine black cultures within the Canadian context and the black diaspora worldwide. WOMEN’S WINTER WONDERLAND HARDWOOD SKI & BIKE February 26 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
PASSPORT TO NATURE: BOOKS N’ BEER CLUB February 11 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm East Coulson Swamp
AN EVENING OF BLUES AND GOSPEL XII February 3 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Orillia Opera House Mariposa in Concert’s (MIC) wildly popular ‘An Evening of Blues & Gospel’ Show returns Saturday Feb. 3, 2024 at the Orillia Opera House with another incredible lineup of all-star vocalists and musicians assembled, arranged and directed by Orillia’s own JUNO award winning producer, Lance Anderson. AUTHOR VISITS AT THE SEVERN LIBRARY February 3 1 pm Bruce Hanson, award-winning author of Double Cross, Elephants in My Stew (as Robert Rime), launching his new book Murder and Other Love Stories. February 29, 4 pm Robert Rotenberg, author of the internationally bestselling Ari Greene Series, launching his seventh book What We Buried. SLEIGH RIDES EVERY SUNDAY Every Sunday 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Quayle’s Brewery
18 The Villager | Feb 2024
MOONLIT CROSS COUNTRY SKI NIGHT February 24 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Horseshoe Resort Nordic ski by the light of the moon from 6:00pm – 9:00pm on lantern lit trails through the Copeland Forest. Afterwards, warm up by the bonfire with a hot beverage! BLACK IN CANADA February 20 @ 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm Orillia Opera House B.I.C. by award winning Choreographer Shameka Blake brings attention to the overlooked histories of blackness and black people in Canada. In dance, song, and spoken word, the show explores key issues and debates that expose the truth about oppression, resistance, and resilience. B.I.C. focuses on the cultural experiences of black Canadians beginning from slavery to present day. Performed by, Artists In Motion,
ABBA REVISITED February 29 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Orillia Opera House VaughnCo Entertainment is proud to present a return engagement of ABBA REVISITED, North America’s #1 Tribute to ABBA. Its members have been dazzling audiences across the globe since the year 2001. ABBA REVISITED recreates the magic of ABBA with authentic costumes, spectacular harmonies and note-perfect musicianship taking their audience on a musical journey back in time. From Vegas to Bermuda, Mexico to Dubai, and Guatemala, ABBA Revisited recreated the show stopping look and sound that ABBA fans around the world can’t deny! This show is a MUST SEE!!!
EUCHRE TOURNAMENT @ QUAYLE’S February 29 @ 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm $20 Per Team of Two Quayle’s Brewery
Custom Orders Available BEEF, CHICKEN & PORK
FRESH SALMON AVAILABLE!
Fresh Vegetables & Fruit Create a great meal with a variety of produce!
Take-out Sandwiches
Freshly prepared • Ask for panini press
Also PIZZA & SALADS!
Freshly Brewed! Serving only our Premium
Muskoka Roastery Coffee Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Shag Fog, Chai Tea Latte, Green Tea Latte All take-out cups are biodegradable.
CANOE BAKERY & CAFÉ
• Breads, rolls, pies, butter tarts, squares, muffins, bagels, meat pies and more! • Enjoy a coffee and sweet take-out.