THE THANKSGIVING PLAY · ARTS IMMERSION · REAL ESTATE AND HOBBIES · VILLAGER VENTURES
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Unplug, Disconnect, Bloom
In recent years, garden therapy has gained recognition as a powerful tool for enhancing mental and emotional well-being. This therapeutic practice involves engaging with plants, flowers, and the natural environment to promote healing and relaxation. For many, the garden becomes a sanctuary where stress melts away, creativity flourishes, and a deeper connection with nature is established.
Garden therapy integrates horticulture, psychology, and naturebased practices. It can take many forms, including planting, pruning, weeding, and simply enjoying the beauty of flowers and greenery. Research shows that spending time in nature can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall mental health. Gardening requires mindfulness and focus, allowing individuals to engage in the present moment, a crucial component of stress relief and emotional resilience.
Starting your garden therapy practice doesn’t require a large backyard or extensive gardening knowledge. Here are a few simple steps to get started:
Choose Your Space: Whether you have a balcony, a small backyard, or a windowsill, any space can be transformed into a therapeutic garden.
Select Your Plants: Consider easy-to-care-for plants such as herbs, succulents, or flowering plants that bring you joy. Aromatic herbs can engage your senses and heighten relaxation.
Engage Your Senses: Make the experience multisensory. Feel the soil in your hands, listen to the sounds of nature, and smell the fragrances of your plants.
Be Mindful: Approach your gardening time as a form of meditation. Please focus on the task at hand, whether planting seeds, watering, or simply observing the growth in your garden.
Create a Routine: Regular interaction with your garden can lead to more substantial benefits. Set aside time each week for your gardening activities, making it a priority in your self-care routine.
As you engage with the plants, you will learn their benefits and how to harvest petals, leaves, roots, and fruit and use them as natural therapies for creams, syrups, tinctures, and art projects. Parklane Landscapes is hosting classes on the last Thursday of each month, teaching participants to create their own cream and tea garden, syrups, and tinctures and exploring creative petal art.
Embrace the therapeutic power of gardening and foster a deeper connection with the natural world—it might just change your life. Sign up now for classes at https://www.parklanelandscapes.ca/ parklaneliving
Make Elderberry Syrup
Petal Art
Make a Herbal Cream
Grow a tea garden
February 2025
PUBLISHERS
Jiun Liao and Mikaila Bolzonello
SUBMIT
STORIES AND EVENTS
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From The Publishers
The news about the major structure fire that occurred in downtown Orillia on Jan 21st is truly heartbreaking. It is something that has affected us deeply.
As small business owners ourselves, we understand how devastating an event like this can be. Your business and your livelihood changed from one day to the next.
What was so apparent on that day was the sense of support from the community. So many people and businesses coming out of the woodwork to help. Coffee shops and restaurants opening their doors for those
affected so they could stay warm. Offering food to the first responders braving the bitter temperatures to keep the fire under control. Events like these are never something any of us hope for, but we get to see the beauty in our connection as a community. The willingness to help others and to just be good people. It is comforting to know that in a time of great need, there are people here who will absolutely step up and support you. For that, we are so grateful.
Thank you to all those who stepped up in a time of great need.
Mikaila & Jiun
Artist Spotlight
Arts Immersion: A Masterpiece in the Making
In the heart of our community, the Arts Immersion project is making waves by combining creativity with connection. Initiated by North Simcoe Arts, and funded by United Way Simcoe Muskoka, this innovative program champions mental health, offering individuals navigating challenges an avenue to find solace through creative exploration. The program is being managed by North Simcoe Art’s talented coordinator, Sukhi Kaur, who also runs the HeARTS program ( Helping elderly with ART ) featured in the March issue of the Villager. At its core, Arts Immersion fosters wellbeing and builds confidence. Participants work alongside talented local artists, who are compensated with paid opportunities to mentor, recognizing the invaluable role they play in shaping our community. With one-on-one sessions and thematic pods, the project creates a safe space for anyone to discover and refine their artistic vision.
Carolyn Boyd, one of our Artist Mentors, talks about her experience: “I’m enjoying teaching the basics in drawing. I think we’ll also be doing some painting projects soon. My student is happy and that’s the most important thing. Mentoring has been so rewarding!” Carolyn explains that he stopped creating 10 years ago and is grateful to now have dedicated time and space to get back into it: “Representing my current level in painting thus far...with Carolyn’s help and direction, as well as a nudge in getting myself going again, is one of the greatest achievements [of mine] in the program thus far.” This match, and many others who have gone through the program, highlight how art can inspire hope.
The supportive environment of Arts Immersion allows individuals facing barriers to develop their talents and learn new skills, as illustrated by another participant: “I don’t attend classes in groups because of my social anxiety. My mentor made me feel comfortable and provided structure, so we could focus on my goals and how to achieve them. My mentor is very knowledgeable and I’m grateful for this program”. Arts Immersion would not have been possible without the help of our partners and collaborators at Creative Nomad Studios, The Meeting Place, Soldiers Memorial Hospital, and Georgian College, who have supported us in our vision of building a stronger, more inclusive community through creative expression.
If you haven’t yet, keep an eye on this program. It’s shaping up to be a masterpiece! Follow us on Instagram and facebook at @northsimcoearts or to stay informed on the cool stuff we’re making! Interested in becoming an Artist Mentor? Reach out to Sukhi at coordinator@ northsimcoearts.ca today!
Innovative Mortgage Solutions for Seniors
Obtaining a mortgage as a senior can be a daunting challenge in two ways: firstly, with the reduction of the amortization period based on age with some lenders, and secondly, the extra 2% qualifying rate the bank of Canada set out in June 2021. These measures, while justifiable under the guise of risk management, significantly hinder seniors’ ability to secure a mortgage if they need the funds. Even though the equity in their home may be $1,000,000, they may not qualify for a $300,000 mortgage to buy a vacation home or help their children buy their own home. This often leaves seniors turning to private mortgages which come with higher interest rates. But, there are alternative solutions.
Reverse mortgages offer a unique flexibility that many may not be aware of. Many people think that a reverse mortgage means that they’re giving their house away. They don’t realize that they can make mortgage payments on a reverse mortgage to maintain the equity in their home. By making regular payments, homeowners can cover the interest or a portion of the interest and even reduce the principal by up to 10% annually, maintaining or growing their equity stake in the property as values rise over time. This approach allows older homeowners to enjoy the liquidity of a reverse mortgage while safeguarding the value of their home. A reverse mortgage does not have to mean that the homeowner is taking equity out while the interest is accumulating, and they’ll eventually have nothing left. A homeowner can make full payment which over the full term will not take any equity out of the property or they can make partial payments to slow the erosion of equity.
Homeowners can also take advantage of the “no payment at all” option and take lump sums as needed rather than all at once. It works like a line of credit, with some restrictions.
As property values increase, a home’s equity will appreciate. A reverse mortgage with the option of making monthly mortgage payments slows or eliminates equity erosion, capitalizes on rising property values, and gives older homeowners peace of mind.
An alternative option is a program that offers a 5-year pause on monthly mortgage payments. It may sound like a financial fantasy, but it’s a viable option for many, regardless of their age. Up to 45% of the home’s value can be put on a 5-year, no payment program. While the interest accumulates over the 5 years, if the homeowner wants to sell or refinance early, they can do that with no penalties.
This program is designed for homeowners who need a break from making full mortgage payments because they are returning to school, or they may be struggling financially and want to wait to see if interest rates decline. As home values rise and they age, they may then qualify for a reverse mortgage that can be held as long as they want. The program is open to homeowners of any age who can’t afford their mortgage payments and are considering selling.
Navigating the complexities of mortgage financing can be challenging, especially when traditional mortgages from a bank are out of reach. There are alternative options that can provide significant financial relief. Tracy Green and her team at Ontario-Wide Financial can access a wide range of mortgage options and tailor solutions to the clients’ specific needs.
Contact: Tracy Green Level 2 Mortgage Broker and Owner of Ontario-Wide Financial in Orillia (416) 573-7669/1-888-307-7799 Mortgage Broker/Owner Level 2 FSRA License # 12456 or visit: www.ontario-widefinancial.com.
Orillia audiences ‘ready’ to laugh, lean into discomfort for THE THANKSGIVING PLAY
Atrue test of one’s sense of humour is whether they are willing to laugh at their own expense. With Mariposa Arts Theatre’s next production, The Thanksgiving Play, running February 6-16 at the Orillia Opera House, audiences are invited to do just that.
The biting satire, written by Indigenous playwright Larissa FastHorse (Sicangu Lakota Nation), shines a light on performative activism in the theatre world and, by extension, our own communities. It follows four well-meaning, but culturally misguided, white theater artists attempting to create a politically correct school play about the first Thanksgiving while struggling with their own woke hubris and lack of Indigenous representation. Forced to confront the complexities of privilege and their unconscious biases, they learn the challenges that come with trying to address cultural issues without a true understanding of them.
FastHorse’s intention is for audiences to have a good time and reexamine Indigenous history through a new lens. “I do have faith that [audiences] are actually well-meaning,” she said in conversation with CBC Q’s Tom Power last fall. “As hard as The Thanksgiving Play is on white folks and well-meaning folks in general, it’s also a love letter… I give them a lot of laughter [and] silliness. I want people to be rewarded for coming to this show.”
Co-directors Samantha Cole and Alyssa LaPlume believe The Thanksgiving Play will encourage people to laugh at themselves, and their sometimes misguided good intentions, as they strive to be allies in their communities. “My hope is [the characters] can inspire a little selfreflection in anyone who resonates with them,” LaPlume says. “We’ve been using the term ‘failing forward’”, referring to the acceptance of
one’s failure as a stepping stone to future success, “and that is exactly what I think the audience will relate to when watching these characters fumble”.
Fumble they do, and spectacularly, as they workshop their way through a first rehearsal rife with inappropriate stereotypical depictions, cultural assumptions, and moments of pure slapstick sure to make theatre-goers gasp, cringe and, yes, laugh out loud. “We need to be able to laugh at our follies,” Cole adds, “but also lean into the uncomfortable feelings that come with being wrong, the discomfort of not knowing, and understand the need for us to listen and learn about Indigeneity and how to do our part in Truth and Reconciliation. This play sheds light on a ‘beloved’ holiday as historically much more than simply breaking bread.”
FastHorse describes her work as one-act plays where “the first act happens here in the space… the second act happens after you leave.” She says the audience should, “leave thinking and questioning and wondering why they didn’t know some of these things, why they’re offended… [and] why is this new information?” ( The Broadway Show). The prospect of sparking this curiosity in community members was an exciting one that made The Thanksgiving Play what MAT President Stevie Baker calls “a perfect fit” for the 2024-2025 season.
“We’re excited to bring our primarily non-Indigenous audience into discussions about our relationships with Indigenous people and history that doesn’t put the onus of facilitating that discussion on Indigenous people,” she says. The comedic aspects of the show are optimal for combating the February ‘blahs’, while also possessing a “razor sharp commentary that is nuanced, but extremely clear”. Baker says, “it pushes us as artists, and community members, to really look at the parallels of what the play is saying and how ‘wellmeaning’ people can get it so wrong in their pursuits of equity and inclusion.”
“I do believe that MAT is capable of taking a big swing like this in the name of diversifying its roster,” LaPlume says, “Over the years, I’ve seen the solidarity for Indigenous peoples and cultures grow across Canada, and Orillia is no different. As a long-time resident, I believe this town and its people are ready to laugh at themselves and sit in a little discomfort in the name of advocacy for Indigenous rights.”
THE THANKSGIVING PLAY runs February 6-16 at the Orillia Opera House Studio Theatre. Evening shows 7:30 p.m., Sunday matinees 2 p.m. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased through the Orillia Opera House website or by calling their Box Office at 705-326-8011. Recommended for ages 14+.
Formal Opening Reception and Q&A to take place post-show on Saturday, February 8. A second Q&A will be held post-show on Saturday, February 15. A silent auction for an original art piece by Windigo Army will take place in the OOH Green Room throughout the run of the show.
To learn more about the show, visit: www.mariposaartstheatre. com/thanksplay Presented in arrangement with Concord Theatricals.
How Your Hobbies and Lifestyle Choices Should Influence Your Next Move
By Gillian Stockdale
When it comes to buying or selling a home, most people focus on things like the number of bedrooms, square footage, and how safe the neighbourhood is. But what if your hobbies and the way you live day-to-day could help you find the perfect home? Thinking about these things can make your next move personal and rewarding.Do you love gardening? Are you lucky enough to have green thumbs? (Anyone who knows me well knows I don’t, but my mom and sisters sure do)! A home with a big backyard and plenty of sunlight might be a must-have. Sellers with these features should highlight them as ideal for plant lovers, showing off beautiful flowerbeds or potential for growing vegetables. If you prefer a simpler lifestyle, a low-maintenance ground floor condo or apartment could be just what you’re looking for. What if you are really physically active? You might look for homes near bike trails, gyms, or yoga studios. Don’t forget to think about where you’ll store your gear. Is there a space for your treadmill or yoga mat? Sellers can appeal to these buyers by mentioning nearby recreational spots, flexible home layouts and storage availability.If you’re creative, you’ll want a home that inspires you. Artists, photographers, and musicians often need good lighting, open spaces, or quiet rooms. Sellers can showcase spare rooms as great spaces for hobbies or creative work. Homes with a bit of charm—like exposed brick walls or quirky nooks—can also be a big hit with buyers looking for something that sparks their imagination.
Families with kids might focus on neighbourhoods near parks and schools. But if your family loves outdoor adventures, being close to lakes, hiking trails, or fun city attractions might be more important. Sellers with homes near these features should highlight them in their listings. Think about how your family spends weekends and vacations— does the location fit those routines? Even how you relax matters when choosing a home. Love hosting friends and family? Look for homes with open kitchens and great entertaining spaces. Prefer peace and quiet? Homes with private patios, cozy corners, or secluded yards could be just right. If you’re someone who loves stargazing or outdoor fires, a home with a clear view of the night sky or a backyard fire pit might make all the difference. For sellers, the key is to show off what makes your home unique and who might love it the most. For buyers, go beyond the basics and imagine how your life will feel in a new space. A home isn’t just walls and a roof—it’s where your life happens. Why not make it fit you perfectly?
Gillian Stockdale is a Sales Representative with CENTURY 21 B.J. Roth
Villager Ventures: Family Time in February
By Hillary Handy
We are in full swing, 2025. The new year is upon us and we have many exciting dreams and schemes for this coming year. While I am all for the fun, I find that February is one of my least favourite months, though. It is a strange in-between time as I usually feel like I have had enough of winter and am ready for spring, but with the Canadian chaotic climate, it could still be two months (or more) away! I tend to find myself in a funk, lingering in the limbo. As such, I am trying to reframe February and look forward to the two major holidays this month boasts of. Here are some things you and your family can do in our region to make the most of February, being more intentional with your family time.
Valentine’s Day
Romance aside, this is a time to show someone you care. It can be more than just commercialism and consumerism. It is a time to teach your children and grandchildren about the different ways we can show love and why it is important to show people you care. Make handmade Valentine’s Day Cards: Stop the consumerism in its tracks. Make your own construction paper notes as a way to express you care. These words of affirmation will speak volumes to those that speak that love language.The various libraries in our community often hosts Valentine’s Day themed activities or workshops. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for those events.
Create a family meal together and pretend you have your own restaurant: Little
ones love to help, so work together on a project with the same goal in mind. They will feel proud of their contribution and you are teaching them a valuable skill in the process. To spice up your life, try shopping at a different grocery store than you usually do. The Namaste Indian Supermarket & Restaurant Orillia is a really cool spot!
Do a puzzle together: Busy hands can make for busy chatter. While engaged in the process of puzzling, you can have some really good and meaningful conversations with your family.
Family Day
A whole day dedicated to families! Let’s make the most of this, regardless of the weather!
Check Community Calendars: See if there are free skates, public swims, or library programs happening in your region. These outings are often great for all ages and stages.
Make a pillow fort: Channel your inner Bluey and make your own “Cubby” out of pillows, blankets, couch cushions, you name it. Also, if you don’t understand this reference, be sure to check it out on YouTube or Disney+.
Have a movie marathon: Pick a theme and roll with it. While watching television for 6 hours is not usually recommended, it IS a fun memory to make with your family. I know in the last issue I said to reduce screen time this new year…but it is fun to binge on some of the classics like Starwars, Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings or for the younger ones in the audience, those Disney sequels that did not quite hit the mark like Cinderella, Little Mermaid and the Rescuers.
For either holiday or any day in between
Be sure to capitalize on the beauty of our region this time of year. Take advantage of the nature that surrounds us.
Go Ice Skating Outdoors: Check rink conditions prior, but there is something special about playing pick-up hockey and figure skating on the Lake. There are also several outdoor rinks maintained by the various townships.
Enjoy a trail walk or hike: Scout Valley, George Langman Sanctuary, the Provincial Parks…so many options. Where is your favourite place to explore?
Make a snowman or snow fort: The snow is here…let’s make the most of it. Building is bonding. Creating is good for the body and the soul. What can you make outdoors?
May this February bring about intentionality with your little ones and loved ones. Let us know what you get up to this month. This Villager will be back in March with more happenings, so stay tuned!
Try our Pet Health Checker at www.lakecountryanimal.ca to help you decide if they need immediate attention.
or 1-800-498-8775 www.leah-cavanagh.c21.ca
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February
A HIGHLIGHT OF COMMUNITY EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS
FISH & CHIP NIGHT / BINGO
February 1
Fish & Chips 4pm - 7pm
BINGO starts around 7pm
$10 per book or 3 books for $25
Cash Bar
Ramona Hall 2212 Fairgrounds Road
Washago
We are a cash only facility.
SLEIGH RIDES
February 2, 9, 17 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Quayle’s Brewery
10TH ANNUAL SNOWGA
February 2 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Flow in the snow for a good cause. This year, The Sharing Place Food Centre can use our help more than ever. This annual event is a karma yoga experience which means you can donate any dollar amount to participate. All proceeds are used to purchase fresh food for those in need in our community. Suggested donation amount, $20. Sunrise Yoga Studio
SEVERN BRIDGE COMMUNITY HALL LUNCHEON
Monday, February 3 : 12 Noon
Severn Bridge Community Hall Pasta Lunch, including beverage and dessert. $12 per person. 1035 Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge
TUBING & TACO TUESDAYS
Starting February 4 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Select our special on any Tuesday Evening through the winter season for a fun experience with sweet thrills and tasty eats!The perfect midweek deal for just $42*. Here’s what’s included:
• 2-hour lift ticket for tubing (Valid after 4 PM)
• A refreshing fountain drink
• 3 soft-shelled tacos with your choice of protein: beef, chicken, fish or veggie Horseshoe Resort
TRIVIA NIGHT
February 6 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Come join us at Quayle’s Brewery for Trivia with Adam Crockatt of Big Dumb Face Trivia. One Full Pour beer from any of our 14 taps per person per team included in ticket (up to 4 people or 6 people depending on ticket purchase)
This is a 19+ event.
Doors open at 5:00pm; Trivia starts at 6:15pm Quayle’s Brewery
THE THANKSGIVING PLAY
Feb 6 - 16
Good intentions collide with absurd assumptions in MAT’s THE THANKSGIVING PLAY Mariposa Arts Theatre is thrilled to bring our February 2025 production of THE THANKSGIVING PLAY to the Orillia Opera House.
RAMONA WINTERFEST
February 15
Theme is PLAID
Poker Run 10am to 2pm
Euchre tournament starts at 1:30pm
Kids Craft Corner and Silent Auction
Food Available all day and Cash Bar
Ramona Hall 2212 Fairgrounds Road
Washago
We are a cash only facility
FROSTY FUN FEST
February 15 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Join us for the 2nd annual Frosty Fun Fest at the Coldwater Mill. Events Include: Nail
Driving, Log Sawing, Ball Toss, 4 Person Ski Race, Relay Race.
The Coldwater Mill
WASHAGO LIONS MUSIC JAM
Longest running jams in the area
Country jam - 2nd wed of each month Rock jam - 3rd wed of each month
Lions Hall Washago 2433 Hamilton St. 7:00 pm start. All levels of play welcome.
FISH & CHIP NIGHT / BINGO
March 1st
Fish & Chips 4pm to 7pm
BINGO starts around 7pm
$10 per book or 3 books for $25
Cash Bar
Ramona Hall 2212 Fairgrounds Road
Washago
We are a cash only facility.
Take-out Sandwiches
Freshly prepared • Ask for panini press Also PIZZA & SALADS!
