The Villager 2015 April

April 2015

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What’s happening in Ward 4. . . . . . 3 April’s business feature. . . . . . . . . . . 5 Jubilee House. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Community events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Local youth best emerging artist

By Ellen Cohen ‘If music is a language, jazz is a conversation.’

Very wise words, especially coming from a 17 year-old. But those words go a long way to explain what makes Washago resident Cole Mendez special. So special, in fact, that Cole is the recipient of the Emerging Artist Award presented by the Orillia & District Arts Council (ODAC). The award recognizes an individual of any age who is in the early years of launching a career in the arts and, while engaging with community, is working towards becoming a recognized artist.

The journey that led to winning this award has taken 14 years of dedication to the music Cole loves.

His first music lessons, on a violin at the tender age of three, didn’t amount to much.

His passion, it seemed, was the piano. His parents, Kathie and Rod Mendez, music lovers themselves, made sure that Cole had every opportunity possible and by the time Cole was 7 years old, he was studying piano.

By the time he graduated from 4th grade piano, he said he was definitely hooked.

His parents hired well-known teacher, Blair Bailey who taught Cole everything he knows about classical music and today Cole is completing his Royal Conservatory of Music Grade 10.

In his early teens Cole knew music would be his career and he started to perform. In the past few years Cole has performed solo

Cole Mendez, Emerging Artist award winner, playing his beloved piano. and often with his band, The Cole Mendez Trio. His bandmates include Max Metcalf on bass, and either Jake Thompson on piano or Chris Arsenault on drums. Both Jake and Chris are now studying music in university but Cole stays close to his friends and says “I don’t know what I’d do without people of my own age to jam with, to learn from.”

In addition to community events, performances include his trio opening for the 2013 Orillia Jazz Festival at the Orillia Opera House, The Brownstone, Apple Annie’s Café, Tre Sorelle, Lakehead University, Orillia Museum of Art & History and the Mariposa Folk Festival for the past 2 years backing up Beth McKean’s performance with improvisational music.

A serious artist needs a studio and Cole has one that is both well-organized and

well-equipped. In addition to his prized piano, every wall and shelf holds music: an impressive collection of guitars; a gleaming trumpet; a mobile keyboard; microphones; headphones; computers; and many pieces of recording and mixing equipment. Every instrument in that room can connect to his computer and he can play back his practice sessions or record and mix the many pieces of music he writes.

“My compositions are often rooted in funk, R&B, but my passion is jazz,” he says.

What Cole loves about jazz is that it has a structure – melody and chords – but it can be arranged anyway the musician wants. “Jazz makes a statement and each time a piece is played it can be interpreted differently. I love

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3

Severn’s Ward 4 and Councillor Ron Stevens

By Ellen Cohen

Ward 4 is Westshore. It follows Lake Couchiching along the east side of Highway 11, north from Wilson’s Point in the south to McLelland Rd. at the north end. Compared to the other four wards in Severn, the population is similar but geographically it is the smallest.

In an interview with Councillor Ron Stevens he said he takes great pride in representing Ward 4. It’s where he lives and he’s familiar with every corner of the ward.

He says there are many issues to tackle every day but it’s what keeps his job interesting.

Top of mind to Ron is the growth in the ward. Development in Ward 4 has begun in earnest. He said that within just a few years 700 new homes will be built, adding a possible 2,000+ residents to the neighbourhood. At the same time Westshore will soon be home to a new elementary school and a community or recreation centre.

This concurrent development is exciting to Ron. He says that this development will most likely result in creating a natural ‘centre’ for the ward. His vision is Ward 4 will have a commercial and recreational hub that will make Westshore an even more attractive neighbourhood in which to live and do business.

The new home developments are mostly mapped out and the location of the school decided, but the location of the recreation centre is yet to be determined. In fact, because the township’s search for land or any agreement with a developer for land is pending, Ron can’t speculate as to where

One of the new homes in the Westshore Beach Club development in Severn’s Ward 4. the recreation centre will be built. But, he said, regardless of where the recreation centre ends up, council’s job will be to make sure there is easy and safe road access for the nearby residents as well as those driving in from the highway.

The other issue top of mind to Ron is water access. “Proximity to water is one of the reasons people live in this area. So far the township and residents have managed this quite well. Several roads in Westshore end on small areas of parkland on the lake.

Run by local residents’ associations, these parks ensure that residents who don’t own property on the lake still have water access.

“As we move forward, we’ll need to look at this and see what we can do to make sure that the new developments have the same benefit,” he said.

No conversation about the increase in services in Westshore could go without

a discussion about a library. As mayor of Orillia, Ron was instrumental in moving the Orillia library project forward, the result of which he is extremely proud. Severn residents had full access to the Orillia library until Orillia asked Severn for a rate increase of 20% per year for five years, compounded.

Severn council declined to accept this offer.

Severn Township does have a library but, as Ron pointed out, it’s in Coldwater, a distance too far for the eastern township residents to travel. “The east side of the township has no access to a library unless they pay half the Orillia Library membership fee themselves. That’s not reasonable for everyone and it’s not a good position for us to be in.”

“Even if we had a small library service in the new Westshore recreation centre, it won’t compare to what the Orillia library Continued on page 25

4

Ellen Cohen Publisher thevillagerpress@rogers.com 705-717-0322 The Villager, a Severn Township community news magazine, is an independently owned and operated publication delivered to households and businesses on or before the first day of every month.

It is mailed through Canada Post north from the Severn Township/Orillia border to Severn Bridge and includes parts of Ramara Township.

In addition to Canada Post delivery, The Villager is distributed each month through high traffic locations along the Highway 11 corridor and in many other select locations in Orillia. For a complete list of locations email thevillagerpress@rogers.com.

Editorial and advertising material is protected by copyright. Reproduction of any article, photograph or graphic is forbidden without the express permission of the publisher. The sentiments of our columnists do not necessarily reflect those of The Villager.

The Villager’s liability to advertisers for errors is limited to the portion of the advertisement in which an error occurs and only if the error is the fault of The Villager.

Community event submissions and prearranged editorial contributions must be received by the 10th of each month for the following month’s publication.

Advertising space must be booked by the 10th of each month in order to appear in the following month’s publication, with 5 business days thereafter to complete the advertising artwork and proof approval process.

The Villager P.O. Box 5 Washago, ON L0K 2B0

Art director: Cathy Cleary, www.cathycleary.tel

WHO visited a local resident’s home in mid-March.

Photo submitted by Liz Duckworth Schamehorn.

From the Publisher:

So much hope As the spring sun continues to melt the snow and the days get longer, we move into the season of rebirth. Spring is my favourite season of the year. I find that my step is lighter. Spring makes me feel more hopeful than any other season.

I’m also feeling hopeful because of two young people I had the privilege of interviewing in preparation for this month’s issue of The Villager.

One of them is a single mother who is living at Couchiching Jubilee House. I’m guessing she’s in her late teens and I know she has had her share of difficulties, too many for such a young woman. However, that’s in the past for Victoria (not her real name). She is safe and secure in her own apartment and working through a program that will help her complete her education and learn how to care for her young child.

Soon she’ll be ready to get a job and move forward with her life, proud and happy.

Victoria has a smile that lights up a room and is so full of hope.

The other young person I spent time with is Cole Mendez, the front page feature story in this issue. He’s a talented musician who

has worked harder than most of us can imagine. He’s intelligent and well-spoken, in fact eloquent. He is fiercely focused on his music but he balances that with a sense of humour and his stable and loving family and social life. He’s recently won a prestigious award, is almost finished high school and getting ready to go to university.

Like Victoria, Cole has his whole life in front of him and he, too, is full of hope.

Victoria and Cole couldn’t come from more disparate backgrounds but here they are – similar in ages and at a turning point in their lives; both work very hard and are willing and eager to take on responsibilities that will lead them to adulthood; and both simply brim over with hope.

Some of us may be a little jaded in the way we think about young people. We might be one of those people who believe there’s no hope for the youth of today. Are you one of the older folks who say, with some disdain, ‘I don’t know about kids these days!’

Before you say that again, take a few seconds to think about Cole and Victoria and you’ll feel as good about spring as I do!

Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com.

Letters may be edited.

5

A dream comes true

By Ellen Cohen A long-time resident of the GTA, Laurie and her husband were happily ensconced in good careers and big city life for years. One day Laurie, a human resources specialist and corporate trainer, found herself on the receiving end of a corporate ‘restructure’.

Her job was gone.

Luckily, six years before losing her job, she and her husband had built a cottage in Lagoon City. The loss of a job opened a door for them. Laurie’s husband, Paul quit his job, they sold their Toronto house, made the cottage their permanent home and started their new life.

“The only people we knew were our neighbours. Our social life consisted of going to Mariposa Market on Saturday mornings.”

It didn’t take long, however, for Laurie to make some business connections.

She landed contract work with Georgian College; eventually worked at Casino Rama in human resources training new recruits for their brand new facility; and finally spent six years with BDO managing their corporate training.

As fate would have it, her job at BDO was centralized in Toronto. Laurie left BDO and looked at this as just the push she needed. She’d always wanted to run her own business. “At this time in my life I knew I would never work for anyone again. It was time to make a serious change in my life,” said Laurie.

Now familiar with the region, and eventually moving to their current home on the Severn River, she had a group of friends with whom she often took day

Laurie Neill, Severn Township resident, owner of White Lions Tea House. trips looking for bargains at garage sales or searching through area shops. Her friends complained there was never a good spot to sit and have a good cup of tea. That was when Laurie started to dream about what her own business would be.

Her first foray into business started as a ‘traveling tea party’. She provided tea service for community groups or events, seniors’ homes and at Swanmore Hall in Orillia. At the time she had approximately 100 sets of beautiful antique bone china cups and saucers.

All was going well until one day, driving over train tracks, she heard the unmistakable sound of china breaking. She knew then she had to find a permanent home for her growing and fragile collection. The search for just the right location took two years, during which time Laurie completed the

Self Employment Assistance Program (SEA), training that provides new entrepreneurs with the tools they need to run their own business.

The building she finally purchased had been a restaurant but had been vacant for years. “It was a bit smelly,” Laurie remembers.

There was mildew and a large portion of the roof had to be completely replaced. “If I really thought about it longer and harder before putting in the offer, if I had looked more closely, I would have passed on this property.” But it turned out that she had the right contractor with the right plan to complete her vision and help to make her dream come true.

The result of a 6-month renovation is a bright, beautifully decorated tea house and restaurant that seats 30 comfortably in the Continued on page 18

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A Parliament of Owls

By Ron Reid

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Writers through the ages have come up with a great variety of terms to describe flocks of birds – a gaggle of geese, a covey of quail, a murder of crows.

My favourite is a “parliament” of owls, perhaps referring to their reputed wisdom.

This term makes very little sense, since owls are generally alone or in pairs, but just in case you happen upon a great gathering of owls, you’ll be ready with the proper name.

This winter, the lucky among us got to see Snowy Owls, but those are now mostly well on their way back to the Arctic. Late winter was also a great time to see Barred Owls, which showed up at many bird feeders to search for mice attracted to spilled seed.

This beautiful species has a striped breast and deep black eyes, making it easy to identify. Barred Owls stay in this area yearround, nesting in conifer woods. You may hear them at night with their distinctive call “who-cooks-for-you; who-cooks-foryou-all”. It is easy to imitate this call, and the birds will sometimes reply, or even fly in nearby to check you out.

In open farmland areas, a large nesting owl is likely to be the Great Horned Owl, which takes over an old hawk or crow nest for its use. As the name suggests, Great Horned Owls have ear-like tufts of feathers on each side of their foreheads.

Their call is a series of deep soft hoots in a stuttering rhythm: hoo-h’HOO-hoo-hoo; if you are lucky enough to hear a duet, the female has a noticeably higher tone than the male. Great Horned Owls begin nesting in February, so by spring they are already feeding hungry young.

Two other small owls round out the breeding population in this area. Eastern Screech Owls are like a miniature version of the Great Horned, with distinctive ear tufts, but they come in two styles – one with feathers that are rusty-red, the other grayish. Screech Owls nest in tree cavities, and on sunny spring days they often bask in the entrance to those cavities. You need sharp eyes to spot them, for their colouration makes great camouflage. Like most owls, these are active mostly at night,

and it is then that you can hear their spooky trilling calls.

Saw-whet Owls also have a distinctive nocturnal call, a slow monotonous series of beeps that sound a lot like the back-up signals on a truck. This call can carry on for minutes at a time. These tiny owls, about the size of a pint jar, have a rounded head and relatively large yellow eyes. Their fluffy feathers complete a presentation that can only be described as “cute”, making this species a favourite with photographers.

Great Horned Owl Saw-whets nest in tree holes as well. Years ago, we watched a family of Saw-whet Owls basking by their nest hole in the woods at Geneva Park.

None of these owl species are especially rare, but they are seldom seen. Even to hear them, you need to get out after dark and work at it, but find finding one is well worth the effort.

A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the cofounder and former executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy. He has written more than 30 magazine articles and co-authored three books. He lives in Washago with his wife, Janet Grand.

7

Time to dust off your golf clubs

By Ellen Cohen Tim and Daphne Edwards, owners of Evergreen Golf Centre, will celebrate their 17th year of ownership when they open this season.

Originally from British Columbia, they moved here for the business.

It was a bold move but they did their research and knew it was the right thing to do. They’ve never looked back.

Evergreen has been a fixture on the east side of Severn Township since it opened in 1964. Designed by well-known golf designer, Bill Robinson, Evergreen is well-maintained with good greens. Suitable for all levels of play, a par 3 course that’s approximately 1,300 yards, Evergreen can be played in 1 – 1 ½ hours, depending on your skill level and how busy the course is.

Tim says that Evergreen is a perfect place to learn the game but is also the best course in the area for golfers to spend regular time practicing every aspect of the game. “Our course will help golfers with control. Even though it’s not a difficult course, some of the holes are quite challenging and our greens are always in great shape.”

Evergreen Golf Centre also offers a challenging 18-hole mini-putt.

Situated right off Highway 11, just south of Washago, the course attracts players from Gravenhurst to Orillia. Walk-on players are welcome but if you are limited for time, calling for a tee time is encouraged.

Fall at Evergreen Golf Centre, a favourite of locals and cottagers since 1964.

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Much more than a house “Almost 90 women have completed our transitional housing program, all of them completely committed to change. They come to us in great need but are able to focus, work hard to achieve their goals and ultimately transition into their new lives,” says Akosua AttaMensah, executive director of the Couchiching Jubilee House.

It’s a complex transition that takes time and effort but the transitional housing program at Jubilee House, assisted by a development coordinator and a program coordinator, works well, as do the other programs provided to clients not included in the housing program.

At any given time, as many as sixty women have applied for the full transitional housing program at Jubilee House.

However, there is only space for four women to live in residence.

While the average length of

time women stay in the program (before transitioning to housing of their own) is 6-8 months, they may stay for up to one

16+ years old, be homeless or nearly homeless, and willing to move to Orillia.

The transitional housing

Women, many with children, are given housing and support that help them transform their lives. year. In any case, an opening in the program is filled quickly from a waiting list. Among other criteria, to qualify for the program an applicant must be

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program includes tailored training and support. According to the staff at Jubilee House, each woman is involved in creating their own specific

program. Akosua says it’s that self-determination of their own goals that results in positive outcomes. Goals may include learning or improving parenting skills, improving literacy, upgrading or continuing education, learning job search skills, or perhaps learning how to cook and eat well.

The program is not easy.

There are rules to follow, appointments and meetings, regular follow up and much accountability. In spite of the challenges the women face, most who enter the program are successful. Close to 90 women have completed the program since 2001 and Jubilee House is proud of the results. “Not only does Jubilee House make a big difference in the lives of those women who complete the program, there is a very positive Continued on page 9

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9 Much more than a house Continued from page 8 effect on their children and generations to come. I believe we provide a great benefit to society,” says Akosua.

One of the women in the program is Victoria (not her real name). She is a young woman with a small child. She lives in her own apartment in Jubilee House and can barely contain her excitement when she talks about the program and how it is impacting her life. A single mother who had nowhere to live and without a high school diploma, she appears to be well on the way to completing her own personal goals after only five months. Feeling safe and happy, Victoria is currently completing her high school credits while working with both Jubilee House staff and volunteers to learn some very important life skills.

Like others in the program, Victoria’s journey began after

she participated in developing her own transition program with help from the staff. One of the goals she established was about child care and she is now taking a parenting course which she says makes her feel more confident and relaxed about being a parent. She also has a library membership which she uses regularly and, through a Jubilee House arrangement, she gets bus passes, has access to child care and can use the Orillia YMCA facilities.

Tanika Chambers, the program coordinator at Jubilee House works closely with all women living at Jubilee House. She meets with each of the women individually every week to assess progress, answer questions or concerns and generally makes sure each of them is getting the support they need. Tanika also hosts a weekly dinner for them in a local church, a dinner the women

help to prepare. Tanika says that the group dinner is in a safe place where women feel free to talk about their lives and offer support to each other.

Couchiching Jubilee House operates because of the generosity of many: four local churches are the backbone of the support group; major gifts come from donors; four annual fundraising events raise about 10% of their annual needs; and they have funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

Cassandra Lebel, development coordinator says there is an extraordinary network of professionals who provide services to Jubilee House clients and a large number of volunteers who are available to help. Cassandra is adamant that Jubilee House could not provide the service they do if it wasn’t for those so generous. “Even if a volunteer simply drives a woman to a doctor’s appointment or a Continued on page 10

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Welcome Hooper’s to Washago Phil Hooper and Peggie Buchannon, most recently from Innisfil, have now fulfilled their dream of running a small, country-style business.

Hooper’s is a one-of-akind gift shop and a café. The merchandise will include work from local artisans and Phil and Peggie encourage local artists to talk to them about carrying their work.

The café will serve freshly ground coffees including specialty coffees such as espresso and cappuccino, and specialty teas, all served with locally baked sweets.

Phil and Peggie want Hooper’s to be a gathering place and they invite neighbours and cottagers to join them for a great cup of coffee.

Much more than a house Continued from page 9 job interview, it’s a huge help.”

Now in their 15th year, Jubilee House continues their good work. Women, who are now Jubilee House alumni, were given a roof over their head and tools with which to improve their lives. They used those tools and they worked hard in order to reach their goals. They’re more

confident, better educated and have more job opportunities.

They and their children are safer and happier.

The impact the Couchiching Jubilee House has in our community will be evident in our society for generations to come.

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11

New curriculum good for safety and health of our children By MPP Garfield Dunlop I look forward to hearing from Ontario parents about the proposed changes to the Health and Physical Education curriculum in Ontario schools.

I am pleased with the recent release of the new sex education curriculum for schools in Ontario, all parents will finally have an opportunity to review the curriculum and have their say.

As the PC Critic for Education it is my opinion that a sexual education curriculum is necessary for the safety and public health of our children. I think there is a role to be played by teachers in our education system with the goal in mind of focusing on bullying, harassment in the school setting and in children’s future workplaces.

The other component here is mental health. The world is a changing place.

At very early ages children are learning misinformation especially in this

computerized world where so much is available to them on-line. Having a teaching component specifically geared to safe internet use as well as teaching the difference between real and fictional violence is a positive step.

I would also like to stress that we will continue to monitor the new sex education curriculum and its implementation. The bottom line is it is about education and the health and safety of our children and grandchildren.

The PC Caucus is of the opinion that consultation on this new curriculum has begun with the recent release of the curriculum as this is the first opportunity for parents to read and share with us what they think. We as MPPs will pass along the thoughts and concerns of Ontario parents, both compliments and criticisms to the Premier and the Ministry of Education both prior to the implementation of the curriculum and after.

Garfield Dunlop, Simcoe North MPP, supporting a Zero Waste Program, holds a small handful of garbage – all the garbage that remained after feeding an estimated 400 people at his annual Pancake Breakfast. The breakfast is a fundraising event for Orillia’s Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.

Pictured with Garfield is his granddaughter, Karley and wife, Jane.

12

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13

By Estelle Ness

Although we do much of our planning throughout the winter months, we are like all of you – happy to be coming out of winter hibernation, enjoying the return of the birds and looking forward to the nice, warm weather.

Our second meeting of the year is on April 8th and we would love for you to join us.

Just show up at the Lions Hall, 4343 Hamilton St., Washago at 1:00 p.m. You will enjoy good fellowship, lots of healthy laughs plus a snack provided by one or two of our members.

Our fundraising events help us to serve the community well.

The first one is on Wednesday, April 15th – our popular Court Whist Card Party and lunch.

Doors open around 10 a.m.

Come early and enjoy coffee and cookies with your friends.

Cards begin at 10:30. We break for lunch between 12:00 and 12:30. You will be served a main meal, dessert, and coffee or tea.

Tickets are $10.00 and there are prizes galore.

We would appreciate it if you purchased your ticket in advance by calling Carol at 705-689-3333. If you’re not able

to commit to the event ahead of time, we’ll see you at the door. Remember we can only accommodate 60.

There will be no Court Whist in May but we will have another in June. We’ll publish the date in the May issue of The Villager.

We look forward to seeing you out and about.

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14

R Cottage open soon We’re happy to report that interior renovations are almost complete and Ian Thompson and Sarah Valiquette Thompson plan to open the doors of R Cottage at the end April or early in May. About the menu, well it’s a secret. But Chef Ian did say that he has re-invented rotisserie.

The food - and the atmosphere - will be wholesome, rustic and just like being at a friend’s

cottage. He also says that like their Orillia restaurant, Era 67, R Cottage will be a restaurant that encourages friends to enjoy each other’s company while having a good meal.

R Cottage will be open for lunch and dinner from Monday – Saturday plus they’ll be open for Sunday brunch.

Keep your eyes on social media for their grand opening plans.

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15

The secret to protecting natural spaces in the community? Teamwork

By Mark Bisset

Nature reserves in Washago offer great examples of the ways The Couchiching Conservancy protects the properties under its care. They also illustrate the way teamwork combined with a passion for our home can yield wonderful results.

Thanks to the generosity of its residents and the progressive thinking of Severn Township Council, the Washago area is well-served by four properties that are accessible to the public for the enjoyment of nature.

These properties act as lasting reminders of some of the founding families who helped build Washago.

One way the Conservancy acquires land is through a donation of a property by a landowner. People develop deep attachments to their land and often the thought that it could be destroyed at some point in the future is the prime motivator to bring it under permanent protection. But happily, thanks to the federal Ecological Gifts Program, there can also be tax advantages

for landowners interested in protecting important natural areas. Donors can make a full donation of a property, or a part donation under the program.

In 2007, Ms. Hope Smith donated 113 acres on the south side of Boyd’s Creek to the Conservancy. This precious tract of green space is now known as the Alexander Hope Smith Nature Reserve, in memory of her grandfather, one of the early settlers in this area.

The Reserve is located in the core of The Land Between and showcases various habitats found in the transition zone along the southern edge of the Canadian Shield. It offers refuge to species which are at risk in Ontario, such as the Blanding’s turtle, milk snake, eastern hognose snake, and the five-lined skink -- Ontario’s only lizard.

A lovely system of trails has been created with the help of dedicated volunteers and visitors are encouraged.

In 2008, the Conservancy was able to work with Ontario Heritage Trust to bring the second part of the Alexander Hope Smith Nature Reserve under protection. Again, a generous donation from Stan

m fro

Hope Smith played a crucial role in creating this reserve.

However, even though the properties are side-by-side, this second addition illustrates the way the Conservancy works with partners to achieve its goals. Ontario Heritage Trust, the Couchiching Conservancy and Severn Township all contributed to this acquisition.

Today, Ontario Heritage Trust owns the property while Couchiching Conservancy takes care of it. The township benefits by securing “green infrastructure” at a minimal cost with no future responsibilities for its care. This property, along with the southern portion, protects more than 90 hectares (223 acres) along Boyd’s Creek.

Over on the west side of the Trent-Severn Waterway are two other examples where families wanted to protect cherished landscapes: the Robert and Emily Fawcett Nature Reserve and the Thomas C. Agnew Nature Reserve. Like the Alexander Hope Smith reserves, these properties harbour species at risk in a wild setting. Both were acquired through donations, and in the case of the Agnew property, the township once again made a contribution. The Nature Conservancy of Canada

and Couchiching Conservancy worked together to protect the Fawcett property. A public trail has been developed on the Agnew property and it will continue to bring joy to residents for years to come.

We know for sure that Thomas Agnew and Robert Fawcett knew each other well, and it’s more than likely both knew Alexander Hope Smith. There is satisfaction in thinking that these families now share, not only a common history, but a natural legacy that makes Washago a better place to live.

• • • • • • • • • • • • Can you help? We are looking for one or two volunteers to organize and run the Wine Club. It only takes two or three days twice a year to help ensure that orders are taken, paperwork completed and the wine picked up by members.

Contact Gay Guthrie, Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@ couchconservancy.ca Mark Bisset is the Executive Director of The Couchiching Conservancy, a non-profit charity which protects wild spaces for future generations. For more information, go to www. couchichingconserv.ca

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16 Local youth best emerging artist Continued from page 1 that.” he adds.

His skills as a jazz musician have improved with the help of Lance Anderson. A Juno award winner jazz pianist and worldrenowned musician who lives in Orillia, Lance has been a mentor and a friend to Cole. He’s helped Cole hone his craft.

Cole says that although his teachers have been excellent and his parents completely supportive, as he grows and moves on in his career, Lance stands out as a remarkable influence on his music. Cole said that learning how to play music is one thing but “Learning how to move my fingers properly, especially for improv; learning how to listen well; and learning how to play with other musicians – for those things I needed someone like Lance.”

Over the next few months, Cole will focus on finishing high school and complete his Royal Conservatory of Music grade 10 Piano.

He’s also auditioning for the music program at three different universities. Longer term, Cole can see himself as part of a touring act and, perhaps one day, he will help others

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Cole Mendez, a multiple instrument musician, recording artist and composer, in his Severn Township studio. make music.

For now, he hopes to perform as much as possible. His new website, www.colemendez. ca is up and running and he says he’s open for business. “University is expensive and I want to contribute as much towards the cost

as I can. I would be very happy to get gigs at local festivals and community events. I am available for events big or small!” he said.

Congratulations to Cole Mendez, winner of the ODAC Emerging Artist award.

Music is his language.

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17

Protecting victims of fraud

By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton

Protecting Canadians and helping them feel safe in their communities remains an important focus for our Conservative Government. Since coming into office, we have worked hard to deliver measures that combat crime and prioritize the rights of victims.

Fraud, like other crimes, can have a devastating impact on its victims. The financial loss of entire life savings can ruin lives, and cause significant psychological and emotional harm. Our Government has taken strong action to combat white-collar crime and stand up for its victims, as we firmly believe that all criminals should be held to account for their offenses.

By passing the Abolition of Early Parole Act, our Conservative Government put an end to the system of Accelerated Parole Review that allowed white-collar criminals to obtain day parole after only serving one-sixth of their sentence and full parole after serving one-third. This legislation eliminated leniency for white-collar crimes, moving Canada’s parole system away from granting parole indiscriminately towards a system of earned parole.

And, to further help ensure that whitecollar criminals serve a sentence that better reflects the severity of their crime, our Conservative Government also passed the Standing up for Victims of White-collar Crime Act. This legislation created tougher sentencing for fraud, creating a mandatory minimum penalty of at least two years in prison for fraud over $1 million and adding aggravating factors for courts to consider in sentencing. These new aggravating factors include the impact on the victims in consideration of the victim’s particular circumstances, including their age, health

and financial situation, the offender’s failure to comply with applicable licensing rules or professional standards and, the magnitude, complexity and duration of the fraud.

This legislation also takes significant action to stand up for victims of white-collar crime. A judge must now consider imposing a restitution order in sentencing, which would require the offender to pay back their victims. Victims of fraud can now also submit a Community Impact Statement, describing the harm or loss they have suffered, for the court’s consideration in sentencing. And, to prevent further victimization, the courts are now permitted to prohibit an offender from taking employment or volunteering in any capacity where they are in authority over the finances of others.

Our Conservative Government takes white-collar crimes seriously, recognizing that those who commit fraud harm individuals and communities. We have ended indiscriminate leniency for early parole, created tougher sentencing and we are standing up for victims of white-collar crime. Our Government is committed to keeping our streets and communities safe, and we will stay focused on protecting the safety and security of Canadians.

I would also like to remind you that if you need to obtain a passport, or renew your expired or about-to-expire passport, please plan to attend my passport clinic on Tuesday April 14th from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Orillia Square Mall, 1029 Brodie Drive. Staff and volunteers will be on site to answer your questions and review your completed application for submission to Passport Canada. There will also be a photographer on-site for photos at a cost of $22. If you have any questions please contact my Orillia constituency office at (705) 327-0513.

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18 A dream comes true Continued from page 5 main dining room and another 11 in the Leacock Room. The exterior was freshly painted, including the two large stone lions near the entrance, and White Lions Tea House was open for business.

Laurie’s china collection now exceeds 500 bone china cups and saucers. Displayed in cabinets, on shelves and on tables, many of are used daily while others are too rare or valuable to use in the restaurant.

However, Laurie is eager to talk to her patrons about her collection and will gladly describe the history of the rarest pieces to anyone who asks.

White Lions Tea House has dozens of quality loose leaf teas. Each is served in preheated pots, and each type of tea prepared with water heated at the specifically required temperature – different

temperature for different teas.

When customers book an English Tea they can expect to drink tea accompanied by scones and clotted cream, homemade lemon curd and strawberry jam, little tea sandwiches, fruit and more, all served on bone china tea pots, cups and saucers and plates from Laurie’s extensive collection.

The menu at White Lions includes much more than tea.

In fact, most patrons come in for the lunch specials that include soups made from scratch, sandwiches and salads. One of the most popular specialties is hot turkey melt with brie, cranberry and baby spinach on a croissant that is baked in-house. Conscious of diet restrictions, White Lions can accommodate most dietary needs, including vegetarian and gluten free options. Customers with even more food restrictions

can call ahead and make special arrangements.

Laurie says that patrons who dine in, take out or arrange catering can be confident that their food is prepared carefully by the chef, Missy, using high-quality ingredients.

Careful to make sure everyone understands they are not a health food restaurant she says, “Our deserts, made on site, are delicious, made with real butter, real sugar and real cream!”

The transition from big jobs in ‘the big smoke’ to living the dream is complete for Laurie Neill. At home she and her husband can look outside and see snowy owls, deer, a fox trotting down the road, even baby muskrats playing under the dock. And at work, now in her fourth year in business, Laurie won’t have a boss telling her about restructuring or downsizing - and her bone china collection is safe.

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By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer

On October 15, 2014, carbon monoxide alarms became law and are required near all sleeping areas in residential homes and in service rooms and adjacent sleeping areas of multi-residential units. Carbon monoxide alarms can be

hardwired, battery-operated or plugged into the wall.

Through statistics, our government recognized the need to improve safety for our families as more than 50 people die each year from Carbon Monoxide poisoning in Canada, 11 of those are in Ontario.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a by-product of incomplete combustion of fuel, such as natural gas, propane, heating

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oil, kerosene, coal, charcoal, gasoline, wood, or other bio-fuels. This incomplete combustion can occur in any device that depends on burning a fuel for energy or heat.

Examples of fuel burning devices are: home furnace; space heater; decorative fireplace; wood stove; kitchen stove or grill; gas/charcoal barbeque; hot water heater; automobile; and lawnmower.

Automobiles left running in an attached garage, a portable generator operating near an open window or in the garage, an outdoor gas barbecue operated inside the house, a grill or kerosene heater that is not properly vented, or a fireplace chimney that is dirty or plugged may create unsafe levels of CO. CO alarms monitor airborne concentration levels (parts per million) of CO over time and

sound an alarm when harmful levels are present. They are designed to sense low CO concentrations over a long period of time as well as high concentrations over a short period of time.

CO alarms sound different from smoke alarms when they activate. It is important to become familiar with the difference. Occupants should also know the low battery or replacement warnings for both their smoke and CO alarms. Keep the manual and instructions for future reference.

Have a home escape plan and practice it.

It is the law to have a working smoke alarm and a working Carbon Monoxide alarm. This is a provincial offence and the applicable fine will be applied if found without one in your home.

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Awards honour Washago members

By Lion Sandra Crawford, Past President

On Monday, March 9, 2015 the governor of Lions A12 division, Barb Ennis visited the Washago & District Lions Club.

Barb worked with the CNIB for 31 years and retired two years ago. An active participant in the Lions organization, she has worked on many fundraising initiatives, including VISION. Her

goal for the VISION initiative is to raise $33,000 for a new vehicle to transport the vision impaired to their medical appointments.

The governor also spoke about the Footprint award available to Lions members, an award presented to Lions members who leave a significant footprint in service, membership and leadership. On

March 9th, a Footprint award was awarded to Jean Stephens, Lioness president in Washago.

Carol Buckley, Lioness treasurer, accepted the award on behalf of Jean.

Another award that was presented was the prestigious Charter Monarch Chevron. This award was presented to Lion Ronald Sprang for his incredible fifty-five years of service to the Lions of Washago.

On behalf of everyone who attended, many thanks to Leslie Stead for the preparation of a beautiful dinner and scrumptious deserts. It was enjoyed by all.

JAM NIGHT: remember that every 3rd Wednesday of the month, organizer and host Dougie welcomes anyone one who wishes to play, sing or come to see the show at the Washago Lions Hall. Doors open at 6:30pm. No charge.

Barb Ennis, District Governor and Lions President Garnet Langille

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21

Easy to prepare “vacation in the mouth”

By Chef Becky

Grain Fed Chicken Stew with a Thai Twist Ingredients:

Preparation:

• ¼ cup olive oil • ¼ cup all purpose flour (rice flour, if gluten free) • 1 lb. roughly chopped boneless skinless chicken thighs • 3 large russet potatoes roughly chopped and peeled into half inch pieces • 2 cups frozen (thawed) or canned (drained) mixed vegetables Shanghai style (found at local grocer), contains mini-corn, water chestnuts, etc.

• 1 can corn, drained • 1 Thai chilli pepper, crushed (optional, available at Zehrs) • 1 can coconut milk (substitute for 1 cup heavy cream) • 4 cups of chicken stock • 2 cloves crushed garlic • 1 quarter of a red pepper diced into ¼” pieces • ½ cup of coriander or cilantro leaves

Place oil into a stewing pot and turn heat to high. Lightly coat chicken pieces in flour and place in pot, letting the sides sear before turning over. Should get browned quickly but not fully cooked.

Pour in chicken stock, add potatoes, bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 min.

Add all other remaining ingredients (except for coriander leaves) and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until liquid has reduced and thickened.

Ladle into a bowl and garnish with coriander leaves, serve over top of jasmine rice or rice noodles.

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By Dan Herbert, president The Rotary Club of Washago & Area - Centennial is organizing its 10th annual Rotary Wild Game Dinner. What is a Wild Game Dinner you might ask?

Club president elect and event organizer Chris Carman says “Our Wild Game Night is a dinner in which ticket purchasers will be treated to a feast of wild game such as moose, venison, lake trout and perch. All dishes will be prepared by local chefs

who donate their expertise in creating very exciting dishes.”

Each chef will prepare their own special dish and the various entrees on the menu will be presented in the form of a buffet on Saturday, April 25th at Camp Couchiching just off Rama Road at Longford Mills.

Cocktails are available from 5:00 p.m. and dinner is served at 6:00 PM. Tickets for the event are $50.00 each. The evening also

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ORILLIA OFFICE: 14 Coldwater Rd. W., P.O. Box 2320, Orillia, ON L3V 6S2 Telephone: 705-326-3246 of Toll Free 1-800-304-7341 Fax: 705-326-9579 MIDLAND OFFICE: 482 Elizabeth St. Midland. ON L4R 1Z8 Telephone: 705-526-8671 Fax: 705-526-8600

features a cash bar.

Proceeds from the evening will be used to support a variety of local and international Rotary humanitarian programs. This year’s event will also help to enroll 10 under privileged children to Camp Couchiching who would otherwise not be able to attend summer camp.

The evening will also feature door prizes and raffle tickets for chances to win exciting prizes for avid outdoors enthusiasts.

This event sells out every year, so people are encouraged to get tickets early to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be obtained at Canoe Fresh Foods in downtown Washago, or Muskoka Meats, Highway 11 north, Gravenhurst or from any member of the Rotary Club.

For more information, please contact Chris Carman at 705330-2359

Rotary Club of Washago & Area – Centennial member, Glenys Hepinstall serves up various dishes of wild game at the club’s annual Wild Game Dinner.

Photo by Dan Herbert

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25 Severn’s Ward 4 and Councillor Ron Stevens Continued from page 3 has,” he says. Ron explained that the Orillia Library has many thousands of books, a full service e-book lending system, a large children’s section and a comprehensive collection of research material. “Revisiting the use of Orillia’s library is certainly on council’s radar and I believe the township and the city are both eager to meet,” he adds.

Regarding what takes much of his time as councillor for

Ward 4, Ron agrees with Mayor Burkett and the CAO, Henry Sander (in last month’s Villager).

The daily life of a municipal representative is mostly dealing with residents about things that impact their daily lives.

It’s a given that taxes are on the minds of Ward 4 residents, but direct calls with questions or asking for assistance are almost always about the basic services - roads, traffic, water or permits, for example. Ron encourages Ward 4 residents to

bring concerns to him as quickly as possible so that he can take action and resolve issues in a timely manner.

Regarding his council colleagues and township staff, Ron said that he praises them without reservation. Although council may not always agree, he said discussions are respectful, meetings are open and council is always focused on a solution. He said staff are the best. They work hard and are very good at what they do. “I know that I can completely rely on them whenever I need help.”

Ron Stevens has served in municipal politics for more than 35 years: as reeve, deputy reeve and mayor in Severn and mayor of Orillia for three terms. Now back in Severn in his second term as Ward 4 councillor, he’s happy to be back looking after the needs of his ward and being an active participant in overall township issues, especially as regards the budget and

Councillor of Ward 4 in Severn Township, Ron Stevens, is in his 2nd term on council and his 36th year of municipal politics. planning.

Regardless of what comes his way each day, Ron says he is very happy in his current job. To quote Ron: “I love being a councillor more than anything else.”

Reach Councillor Ron Stevens at 705-689-5305 or RStevens@ townshipofsevern.com.

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April 4

May 27

Easter Egg Hunt in Downtown Orillia. For details visit Easter Seals fundraiser ladies’ 9-hole Golf Tournament, lunch and www.downtownorillia.ca or call 705-325-3261. silent auction. Hawk Ridge Golf Course. For information and tickets call 705-325-1366.

April 10-26

Maple Flavours of Ontario’s Lake Country, delicious set-price threecourse meals $20 - $30 per person, created by local restaurants. www.ontarioslakecountry.com or call 705-325-9321.

April 15

Washago Lions Club hosts their popular Court Whist at the Washago Lions Hall at 10:30 p.m. $10 per person. Call Carol for more information or to book you spot. 705-689-3333.

April 18 – May 9

Multiple Canadian Fiddle Champion

Orillia Perch Festival, great cash and product prizes, adult & children categories. Special OPP Kids’ Day Saturday, May 2. Headquarters Tudhope Park. 705-326-4424 or 1-888-326-4424.

Scott Woods

April 24

& His Band

All you can eat Pancake Supper, from 5 pm-7 pm. Proceeds to Rama Township Fire Department. Ramona Hall.

May 13

Woman & Young Woman of the Year, Dinner and awards ceremony presented by the Orillia Business Women’s Association. Best Western Mariposa Inn & Conference Centre, 400 Memorial Ave. $45/person. Call 705-325-6292.

Friday, May 1st, 7:00 p.m.

Gravenhurst Opera House

295 Muskoka Road, South, Gravenhurst

WASHAGO COMMUNITY CENTRE EVENTS

Tickets: Adult $25.00 • Child $10.00

Spring Program Registration

Tickets available at:

April 8th, 5 pm – 7 pm and April 11th, 9 am – 11 am

Gravenhurst Opera House Box Office

Meet & Greet

May 2nd, noon – 2 pm.

With Garfield Dunlop MPP and Bruce Stanton MP.

Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Call 705-687-5550 or 1-888-495-8888 • www.gravenhurstoperahouse.com

WCC Annual General Meeting

Proceeds support Music on the Barge

May 13th, 7 pm.

Spring into Lake Country!

One per person, when you spend over $15 on any food combination No cash value • Valid only in April, 2015

You Chill ~ We Grill

Open from 11 am • Closed Sundays

Fittons West Plaza | 425 West St. N., Orillia | 705-329-0303 | lakecountrygrill.com

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We’re ready for outdoor activities

By Pat Harwood, recreation coordinator Spring has finally sprung and recreation programs and activities are moving outdoors!

The focus from now until the snow flies again is to have as many programs outdoors and get everyone active. The township offers T-ball, soccer and urban polling/Nordic pole walking, just to name a few.

On Saturday, June 6th “National Health and Fitness Day” will be celebrated with activities to try. More details to follow.

The melting snow also means work on the ball diamonds and soccer pitches. The Coldwater large ball diamond will see a backstop improvement for the safety of the players and spectators. Washago Centennial Park and Coldwater Fairgrounds will be re-shaped for 2015.

The Township has also applied for a $60,000 grant from the County of Simcoe “Trails Connecting Communities Program” for continuing work on the Uhthoff Trail which includes surface material, trail head improvements, additional amenities and assessments to be completed.

Inside work will involve setting up the new recreation software approved by Township Council to be ready by the fall.

Kayak and paddle board instruction is booked every Wednesday morning at Washago Centennial Park for the eight weeks of summer.

Everything is provided.

For more information on culture & recreation in Severn Township please visit www.townshipofsevern.com.

Take the blankets off your feet!!!

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705.514.5000

www.canoefreshfoods.ca Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. | Sunday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• Excellent selection of freshly butchered meats • Fresh fruits and vegetables

Specialty items: cheeses, smoked salmon, spreads, sauces, chutney, dips and more.

Bread, buns, croissants • Sweet rolls, Danish, turnovers • Double-decker brownies Date squares, Muffins • ‘Almost Famous’ Butter Tarts • DELICIOUS HOMEMADE PIES Relax in our bakery café & enjoy our French-pressed coffee or specialty tea with a fresh bakery item.

There are always specials at Canoe Fresh Food Market.

Drop in to see what we have for you this week!

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