The Villager 2022 April by Villager Community News

happy easter!

April 2022

A terrible loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9 Lions Club news . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Township update . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 17 Community events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

From local chef to innkeeper by Ellen Cohen Remember seeing a lime green Jeep emblazoned with Black River Food Company on the main street of Washago? Inside was Chef Becky, well-known for her gastronomical creations as well as being a supporter of the community, and a good friend and neighbour. How did she choose this area as her home and what is she doing now? Born in Halifax, her family moved to Ontario when Becky was a small child. They then lived in Toronto for several years and eventually settled in Hamilton. Her mother, a nurse, moved from Toronto’s Sick Children’s Hospital to Hamilton. Her father, an Anglican priest, became head of Theology at Hamilton Psychiatric. “We had all kinds of interesting people at our dinner table as I grew up. I’m glad about that because I think that’s part of what has made me a tolerant, accepting, and adventurous adult,” Becky said. Becky attended college in Hamilton to study social work and eventually took a job in that field out west. But, as (bad) luck would have it, Becky suffered an injury and came back to Ontario. The field of social services was now off her list. She retrained as a chef and decided she’d live anywhere as long it was on water and had winter skiing nearby. “The decision of where to settle was made by looking at a map. My finger landed in

The Sir William MacKenzie Inn, a half-hour from Washago, is where local resident and chef, Becky Lennerton is now innkeeper. Orillia and off I went. I found exactly what I wanted on the Black River outside of Washago, a place I immediately felt was ‘home’.” Over the next many years, she started her catering business, ran a restaurant, bought a food truck she called ‘Rollin’ On the River’, became a vendor at large festivals and events and taught at a culinary college, always expanding her reputation as an exceptional chef. Today, Becky has taken her sense of adventure along with her experience and considerable talents to a new role. She is now innkeeper at The Sir William Mackenzie Inn in Kirkfield, only a ½ hour from Washago. Becky explained, “I manage staff, I plan every aspect of weddings, do marketing, help to open and close for weekend events and, when needed, even help to maintain the grounds. Innkeeper really means doing what needs to be done.”

The inn, now fully booked for the season, can accommodate events with 160 guests outdoors, or 72 guests in the ballroom. There are 13 guest rooms. Their all-inclusive weddings comprise 95% of their business. All meals, including the 4-course wedding feast are freshly prepared using Becky’s farm-totable policy and are paired with local cider and beer. Becky is happily ensconced in her new adventure and wants people to know about the inn, “I encourage people to have a look at Sir William Mackenzie Inn for their wedding, a retreat or event. It’s an absolutely beautiful spot. We are very, very proud of what we offer.” The inn is hiring staff, particularly those who have banquet experience. As well, they are always in search of local food. If you or anyone you know has something the inn could use, please contact Becky through their website www.mackenzieinn.com.

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The rhythm of spring migration By Ron Reid April, it is often said, is the cruellest month. One day you bask in spring sunshine; the next, a late snowfall swings you back into mid-winter. Every day features mud underfoot, and those April showers can be dreary indeed. Even the arrival of migrating birds seems to have almost stopped in April. The early pulse of Robins, Red-winged Blackbirds and Grackles are still here in abundance, but spring birders yearn for something new. Early May will bring another great pulse of warblers and thrushes, but April can seem a bit dull. The difference is not that migration has stalled, but that most of the April arrivals come one by one, so you have to watch more closely to pick out the newcomers. Keep an eye on the waste seeds on the ground under your feeders for members of the sparrow clan. The first to show up will likely be Song Sparrow, with heavy dark stripes underneath and a dark chest spot. A few days later a White-throated Sparrow or two will arrive; its name refers to a bright white patch on its throat, and the males also feature a yellow stripe above the eye. If you are lucky, you might see a Fox Sparrow, with rusty red stripes; this species seems to only stay for a day or two and then is on its way. You don’t need to leave home to see other returnees; Yellow-shafted Flickers might choose your lawn to search for ants; a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker will often show up on the trunk of a deciduous tree. If you have grassy fields nearby, April is the month for Eastern Bluebirds to arrive,

Eastern Bluebird pair usually seen near nest boxes as they stake out their summer territory. In wet spots, you might see Wilson’s Snipes gracing the fenceposts with their long bills, perfect for probing wet ground for earthworms. When evening comes, Snipes perform an aerial dance complete with sound effects called “winnowing” produced by the wind through their wings. In stands of poplars, the oddly-shaped American Woodcock with mottled rusty tones on its round body and an even longer bill takes caution and perseverance to find among the fallen leaves. It too has an evening aerial display marked by a twittering sound; regularly it lands on its display grounds where it utters a distinctive “peent” as it does a little dance. With a flashlight and lots of patience, you can get a good look at one of these Timberdoodles, since they usually return to the same dancing site. When the bird is in the air, you gradually creep closer; when the

aerial twitter stops, crouch and freeze; your flashlight will pick up its eye-shine to guide your attention. Finally, flooded fields are always worth a look, for the ever-common Mallards but also less common ducks like Pintail, Bluewinged Teal and Green-winged Teal. These puddle ducks tip up their tails as they search the shallow bottom soils for insects. So no need for April to be dull. The birds may not be as numerous, but they make up for that in their diversity and interesting habits. Forget the uncertain weather and pull on your mud boots – spring definitely rolls on! A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the co-founder 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.

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4 From the Publisher:

Musings

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

I love the word muse, or musings. It describes something that’s reflective or thoughtful. When you ponder or contemplate. Particularly easy to write, much easier than a story or a poem, musings do not require a writing plan or an outline. There is no rule that says you need a beginning, middle and end. Musings just are. A dear friend would often write her musings in the middle of the night. In her most comfortable living room chair at 3 a.m. with a snack on a side table, Cher would ‘fire up’ her tablet and begin to write. She always hit ‘send’ before going back to bed. I replied to each one sent my way. The world said goodbye to her on January 27, 2022. Today I can only read her words from ‘before’ and each time I do, I learn. I’ve learned musings are cathartic for those left behind. They inspire and soothe, cause laughter and tears, and give comfort. I’ve also learned that to share musings is a gift to the living. Costing nothing but time and thought, those words have an incalculable value. What also resonates is a reminder to pause and look around…slowly and thoughtfully. Look at things near me and pay attention to what I can hear and feel; to spend moments musing on what those things mean to me, which in turn opens my imagination’s door to what could be. In these trying times, when events far beyond our control are pushing and pulling us in unwanted directions, I find solace in

these quiet moments and am learning to count on them for peace of mind. A walk in nature is simply a few steps away, blessed as we are to have been born and live in this extraordinary country of Canada. All these things rush through me as I pen my own musings. Today I wish I could write to my dear friend so that she could know what I’ve learned from her. See that I read her words and am now answering in my own way. We often said how lucky we were to call this town our home, to have the gift of later-life friendship, and to have a life of freedom and peace. The truth of that these days is so clear. If this was before, I would open my laptop tomorrow morning and read one of Cher’s welcomed musings. I believe it would include words of despair about the horror in Ukraine and many words of praise for the bravery of President Zelenskyy. She would comment about how life itself is fragile and peace on earth fickle and fleeting. She would say our global village is in crisis and needs help. She would be right.

Natural gas or heat pumps Ron Reid’s column in the February Villager elicited many comments. We published two of those in March, both in agreement with him. This letter writer has a different opinion. As a gas fitter and a red seal refrigeration mechanic with 35 years of experience, (I can say) heat pumps are not ideal for our climate here. Most of the units are not able to provide the heat required when the ambient temperature is below -10°c. They also require hydro to operate. A gas fireplace or heater can provide heat with no power present. The cost to purchase and install heat pumps is high and they then require a lot of maintenance which is also expensive. Repairs on a heat pump require a highly skilled technician to repair. Most local companies do not provide service to heat pumps due to the technical difficulties of these units. I own a heat pump and use it only because I can fix and maintain it myself. I would not recommend one as a primary source of heat. Douglas Shakell Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.

Spring is a big deal at Conservancy By Courtney Baker, Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, a local land trust dedicated to protecting nature for future generations. A big season for nature means big things are happening at your local land trust. The spring foundation at The Conservancy is based on our biggest meeting of the year, the Annual General Meeting; the launch of the Passport to Nature, our biggest program of the year; and the Carden Challenge, our biggest fundraiser of the year. Busy? Yes. Fun? Yes. Boring? Never. We have completed our first event in this relay, the Annual General Meeting. It was a great success with 270 Zoom participants recognizing our work and enjoying a fantastic guest speaker. Celebrating our success and the strength of our community is a great way to start the season. The next big adventure to arrive is the 2022 Passport to Nature. Our annual booklet of free events has been made with you in mind. With activities that include paddles, road trips, and music there is something for everyone thanks to our dedicated volunteers and the many local businesses who support our work. The Carden Challenge, our largest and arguably the most fun fundraiser of the year, is scheduled for May 27th and 28th. Teams will flex their birding muscles while they spend 24 hours counting as many species as possible. Competition is hot for the Carden Cup, the Biodiversity Trophy and, yes, the Teeter-Ass Trophy for team spirit. If you like Easter egg hunts, try going extreme this year with birds instead of eggs and 25

Some of our smallest supporters explore during the Passport to Nature; Kids Nature Journal. Photo by Janet Machan. square kilometers rather than sitting your living room. Details can be found on our website. Funds raised support conservation work in the globally rare Carden Alvar in our own back yard. These spring events are opportunities for our organization to grow and to welcome new people into an organization that protects the land we love and need in order to sustain us. They are chances to give back to our supporters, new and old, who have helped nurture a hope to protect the lands of our thriving local non-profit. Whether we give back through reporting what we have achieved together at the

AGM, or by providing the framework for community members to connect to nature and conservation through the Passport, or by pulling together groups of people for fundraisers (yes, I said it) like the Carden Challenge, we want to show our gratitude to those who do so much for us. If you want to join our conservancy community, watch a recording of the AGM, download a Passport booklet, or register to join the Carden Challenge, please visit www. couchichingconserv.ca. There you will find so much more including information on properties, volunteering, donations and a sign up for our monthly newsletter.

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Easter bunnies visit Washago Well, the bunnies aren’t ‘real’, but the art is. Yes, the Washago Art Club has done it again. The village of Washago is now in a much needed festive mood because club members have painted brightly coloured Easter-themed posters and enlisted the help of volunteers to hang them. You’ll be able to view these posters starting from the entrance to Washago and all along Muskoka Street. If you’re a newcomer to Washago, you may have missed some of the many outdoor art displays the club has created. It all started six years ago when the art club members painted large canoe paddles and hung them on poles along the main street. At the end of the summer season, they held an auction at the Washago Community Lewis Lawder of Washago, one of the many Centre that raised thousands of dollars. volunteers who helped hang Easter posters Since then, outdoor displays have throughout the village. included bird houses, wooden maple leaves,

live-edged planks and more. The artists also created a permanent outdoor display, large and colourful letters spelling WASHAGO which is now permanently affixed to the side of the local Home Hardware building. Washago Art Club members hope that your trip to the village will include a slow stroll along the street to ensure a good look at the Easter posters, all colourful and lots of fun. Watch for the Art Gallery of Washago to open in mid-May. It is located behind the C21 Real Estate office. In the meantime, visit their website www.washago-art.com. Information about the Washago Art Club can be found on Facebook.

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A terrible loss to our community Sadly, Donald Westcott of Washago passed away on February 20, 2022 after a brief illness. He leaves behind his grieving wife, Cathy, his children and grandchildren, and his seven surviving siblings and their families. Also in mourning are residents in Severn and Ramara Townships, neighbours, friends, colleagues and hundreds of community volunteers who have had the privilege of working with Don, especially those involved in the Washago Community Garden and the Ramara Historical Society. Don was raised on a farm in Udney, spent 30 years in policing, and worked with his son in home construction. He also devoted 4

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years to the job as a councillor for Severn Township, Ward 5 before fully retiring. “Whatever it was Don did, wherever he worked or volunteered, he put everything he had into making sure it was done right. He was determined and thoughtful and dedicated,” said Cathy Westcott. Cathy said that first and foremost Don was a family man. He was involved with every aspect of their life, loved his children and, as most grandfathers do, adored his grandchildren. She added, “Don was also a man of vision. His love of gardening gave him the idea to form a community garden. His ability to describe that vision, to draw people in and to create A project led by Westcott, the passion in others enabled him yellow Door of Hope at the to bring volunteers along with Washago Community Garden. him and get the work done, work for the good of the community.” Today the Washago Community Garden at the edge of the village of Washago is an extraordinary sight with flowers blooming from spring until fall. It is always decked out for occasions such as Remembrance Day or Christmas. In that same space, Don recently brought another vision to fruition - the well-known and inspirational yellow Door of Hope which was erected in the garden during the height of the pandemic. Even the home he and Cathy built was a result of a vision. It is like a big warm yellow hug on the river: the long driveway can accommodate many visitors whom he always welcomed; inside is open and warm and ready to host family and friends for coffee, for dinners or wonderful evenings together; and the riverside is beautifully landscaped and large enough for people to gather and Continued on page 9

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9 kids to play. In fact, this home he loved is a metaphor for who he was – open, kind, generous, welcoming and loving. When Cathy and I spoke in preparation for this article, we agreed that Don has left a legacy. Not a large impressive building with his name on it or a miracle cure for a disease. Instead, Don’s legacy is softer, more modest, but it has deep and lasting footprints that only special people leave behind. His legacy will comfort his wife of 50 years and will live in his children and grandchildren, in the community garden, and in the written records of past work at the township and the Ramara Historical Society. Those who knew Don saw several sides of this good man: the necessary tougher but always professional and considerate police officer, builder and township councillor; the warm, soft side of him that raised his hand at every opportunity to help his community; and the Donald Westcott who was in awe at the sight and saw beauty in the colours and textures of flowers, especially his beloved Dahlias. He loved his flower gardens so much that visitors to his home would always be treated to a tour of those gardens, and because of his always kind and gentleman-like behaviour, he made sure every woman who came to visit left with a bouquet of Dahlias. Like everything in Don’s life, he was compelled to give and to share what he loved most. Community members who would like to make a donation in Donald Westcott’s memory may give to St. Mark’s Presbyterian Donald Westcott of Washago shown in front of one of his beloved Church, Orillia or St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto. Dahlia gardens.

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REMARQUER ÉLECTIONS REMARQUERMUNICIPALES 2022

Canton d’Oro-Medonte, Ramara et Severn ÉLECTIONS MUNICIPALES 2022 Les élections municipales auront lieu en octobre 2022.Le mandat sera du 15 novembre 2022 au 14 novembre 2026. Cantondud’Oro-Medonte, Ramara et Severn Avis est par la présente donné qu’à compter 2 mai 2022, les candidatures peuvent être déposées en personne ou par un agent au bureau du greffier respectif pendant les heures normales de bureau avant le jour des mises en candidature ou le jour des mises en candidature étant leauront vendredi 20222022.Le entre 9h00 et 14h00. Les élections municipales lieu19 enaoût octobre mandat sera du 15 novembre 2022 au 14 novembre 2026. Les candidatures doivent être soumises sur le formulaire prescrit et doivent inclure les signatures d’approbation de 25 électeurs éligibles (formulaire disponible d’ici laqu'à mi-avril à l’undu des2 bureaux municipaux), être signées par laêtre personne mise Avis est par la présente donné compter mai 2022, les candidatures peuvent en candidature et être accompagnées des frais dépôtaudebureau candidature prescrits (200 $ pour le chef conseil et 100 $ déposées en personne ou par unde agent du greffier respectif pendant lesdu heures pour tous lesnormales autres bureaux). de bureau avant le jour des mises en candidature ou le jour des mises en candidature Les renseignements sur les qualifications desentre candidats peuvent étant le vendredi 19 août 2022 9h00 et 14h00.être obtenus auprès de n’importe quel bureau municipal. Les déclarations de candidature doivent déposées du greffier municipal de la municipalité Les candidatures doivent êtreêtre soumises surauprès le formulaire prescrit et doivent inclure les pour laquelle vous postulezd'approbation avant de pouvoir des contributions ou dépenser l’argent pouràvotre signatures de 25accepter électeurs éligibles (formulaire disponiblede d'ici la mi-avril l'un campagne. des bureaux municipaux), être signées par la personne mise en candidature et être accompagnées frais depeuvent dépôt de candidature prescrits (200 $ pour le chef du conseil et Les postes pour lesquels desdes personnes être nommées sont: 100 $ pour tous les148 autres bureaux). Canton d’Oro-Medonte (ligne 7 sud, Oro-Medonte): MaireLes - 1 àrenseignements élire (au sens large) sur les qualifications des candidats peuvent être obtenus auprès de Adjoint au maire - (àbureau nommer par le conseil parmi l’un des 6 conseillers de quartier élus) n'importe quel municipal. Conseiller, quartier 1 – 1 à élire Les déclarations doivent être déposées auprès du greffier municipal de Conseiller, quartier 2 – de 1 àcandidature élire la municipalité pour laquelle vous postulez avant de pouvoir accepter des contributions Conseiller, quartier 3 – 1 à élire ou dépenser de l'argent pour votre campagne. Conseiller, quartier 4 – 1 à élire Conseiller, quartier – 1 à éliredes personnes peuvent être nommées sont: Les postes pour5 lesquels Conseiller, quartier 6 – 1 à élire Canton de Ramara (2297, route 12, Brechin) : Canton d'Oro-Medonte (ligne 148 7 sud, Oro-Medonte): Maire - 1 à élire (au sens large) Adjoint au Maire maire -- 11 àà élire élire (au (au sens large) - (à nommer par le conseil parmi l'un des 6 conseillers de quartier élus) Conseiller,Adjoint quartierau 1 maire – 1 à élire Conseiller,Conseiller, quartier 2 –quartier 1 à élire1 – 1 à élire Conseiller,Conseiller, quartier 3 –quartier 1 à élire2 – 1 à élire Conseiller,Conseiller, quartier 4 –quartier 1 à élire3 – 1 à élire Conseiller,Conseiller, quartier 5 –quartier 1 à élire4 – 1 à élire Conseiller, quartier 5 – 1 àSevern): élire Canton de Severn (1024, allée Hurlwood, Conseiller, quartier 6 – 1 à élire Maire - 1 à élire (au sens large) Adjoint au maire - 1 à élire (au sens large) Canton de Ramara Conseiller, quartier 1 – 1 (2297, à élire route 12, Brechin) : Maire 1 à élire Conseiller, quartier 2 – 1 à (au éliresens large) Adjoint au maire - 1 à élire (au sens large) Conseiller, quartier 3 – 1 à élire Conseiller, quartier Conseiller, quartier 4 – 1 à élire1 – 1 à élire Conseiller,Conseiller, quartier 5 –quartier 1 à élire2 – 1 à élire Conseiller, quartier 3 – 1 à élire Candidats aux postes de maire ou d’adjoint, veuillez noter que si vous êtes élu, vous serez également membre du Conseiller, quartier 4 – 1 à élire conseil du comté Conseiller, de Simcoe. quartier 5 – 1 à élire

ADMINISTRATEURS DE L’ÉCOLE : de Severn (1024, allée Hurlwood, Severn): Au moment Canton de l’impression, la détermination de l’endroit où les documents de nomination pour les commissaires d’école Maire - 1 à élire (au pas sensencore large)été finalisée pour les districts de la région, comme indiqué ci-dessous. suivants doivent être déposés n’avait Adjointmunicipal au mairepour -1à élire (au sens large) Contactez votre greffier plus d’informations. Conseiller, quartier 1 – 1 de à élire Membre - Conseil de district public langue anglaise Conseiller, quartier 2 – 1 àdeélire Membre - Conseil de district séparé langue anglaise Conseiller, quartier 3 – 1 de à élire Membre - Conseil de district public langue français Conseiller, quartier 4 – 1 àdeélire Membre - Conseil de district séparé langue française Conseiller, quartier 5 – 1 à élire Yvonne Aubichon, greffière Jennifer Connor, greffière Alison Gray, greffière Canton d’Oro-Medonte Canton de Ramara Canton de Severn Candidats aux postes de maire ou d'adjoint, veuillez noter que si vous êtes élu, vous serez 705-487-2171 705-484-5874 705-325-2315 également membre du conseil du comté de Simcoe.

NOTICE MUNICIPAL NOTICEELECTIONS 2022

Townships of Oro-Medonte, Ramara MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS 2022 & Severn Municipal Elections will be held in October 2022. The term of office will be November 15, 2022 to November 14, 2026.

Townships of Oro-Medonte, Ramara & Severn

Notice is hereby given that as of May 2, 2022 nominations may be filed in person, or by an agent, in the respective Clerk’s Office during normal office hours prior to Nomination Day or on Nomination Day being Friday, August 19, 2022 Municipal Elections will be held in October 2022. The term of office will be November 15, 2022 between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

to November 14, 2026.

Nominations must be submitted on the prescribed form and must include endorsement signatures from 25 eligible is herebybygiven that at asany of of May 2022 nominations may bebyfiled in person, by an electorsNotice (form available mid-April the2, Municipal Offices), be signed the person beingornominated and be agent, by in the Clerk’s Office normal officeof hours prior to $100 Nomination Dayoffices). or on accompanied the respective prescribed nomination filingduring fee ($200 for Head Council and for all other

Nomination Day being Friday, August 19, 2022 between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Information as to qualifications for candidates may be obtained at any of the Municipal Offices.

Nominations must be submitted on the prescribed form and must include endorsement

Nomination Papers must be filed with the respective Municipal Clerk of the municipality for which you are signatures from 25 eligible electors (form available by mid-April at any of the Municipal Offices), seeking office before you can accept contributions or spend money for your campaign.

be signed by the person being nominated and be accompanied by the prescribed nomination

The offices persons mayofbe nominated filingfor feewhich ($200 for Head Council and are: $100 for all other offices). Township of Oro-Medonte (148 Line 7 for South, Oro-Medonte): Information as to qualifications candidates may be obtained at any of the Municipal Offices. Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large) Nomination must beby filed withfrom the respective Clerkward of the municipality Deputy Mayor –Papers (to be appointed Council amongst oneMunicipal of the 6 elected Councillors) for which you are seeking office before you can accept contributions or spend money Councillor, Ward 1 – 1 to be elected for your campaign. Councillor, Ward 2 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward – 1 topersons be elected The offices for 3which may be nominated are: Councillor, Ward 4 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 5 – 1 to be elected Township of Oro-Medonte (148 Line 7 South, Oro-Medonte): Councillor, Ward 6 – 1 to be elected

Mayor –(2297 1 to be elected large) Township of Ramara Highway 12,(at Brechin): Mayor (to be appointed by Council from amongst one of the 6 elected ward Mayor – 1Deputy to be elected (at–large) Councillors) Deputy Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large) Councillor, 1 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 1 – 1Ward to be elected Councillor, Ward 2 – 1Ward to be elected Councillor, 2 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 3 – 1Ward to be elected Councillor, 3 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 4 – 1Ward to be elected Councillor, 4 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 5 – 1Ward to be elected Councillor, 5 – 1 to be elected Councillor, 6 – 1Lane, to beSevern): elected Township of Severn (1024Ward Hurlwood Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large) Township (2297(at Highway Deputy Mayorof – 1Ramara to be elected large) 12, Brechin): Councillor, Ward 1 – 1 to be elected Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large) Councillor, Ward 2Mayor – 1 to be Deputy – 1elected to be elected (at large) Councillor, Ward 3 – 1 to be Councillor, Ward elected 1 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 4 – 1Ward to be elected Councillor, 2 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 5 – 1 to be elected Councillor, Ward 3 – 1 to be elected

Candidates for the officesWard of Mayor please take note that, whether appointed or elected, you will also Councillor, 4 – 1ortoDeputy, be elected serve as a member of Council for the County of Simcoe. Councillor, Ward 5 – 1 to be elected SCHOOL TRUSTEES: Township of Severn (1024 as Hurlwood Severn): At the time of printing, determination to whereLane, Nomination Papers for the following School Trustees are to be filed had not yet been finalized for area districts as noted below. Contact your Municipal Clerk for further information. Mayor – 1 to be elected (at large) Member -Deputy English Mayor Language Public District Board – 1 to be elected (at large) Member -Councillor, English Language Ward 1Separate – 1 to beDistrict electedBoard Member -Councillor, French Language Public District Board Ward 2 – 1 to be elected Member -Councillor, French Language Separate District Board Ward 3 – 1 to be elected

Councillor, Ward 4 – 1 to beJennifer elected Connor, Clerk Yvonne Aubichon, Clerk Township of Oro-Medonte Township of Ramara Councillor, Ward 5 – 1 to be elected 705-487-2171 705-484-5874

Alison Gray, Clerk Township of Severn 705-325-2315

Candidates for the offices of Mayor or Deputy, please take note that, whether appointed or elected, you will also serve as a member of Council for the County of Simcoe.

Washago Lions roar back into action Just like spring, the Washago Lions are greeting the provincial reopening with a roar! With restrictions being lifted, life at the Lion’s Hall is returning to normal, at last. We had our first dinner meeting in forever. The food was catered by locally owned By the Rock Farm and was absolutely delicious. Our music jams have returned and both were enthusiastically received by the community. The loyal fans of our Country Jam returned to listen to a great line up on March 9th; and the Rockin’ St. Paddy’s Jam, our first LLBO licensed jam, served up incredible music and drinks. Attendance broke all previous records and we were thrilled to see so many new faces singing and dancing and having a great time. Through tips and casual donations we were able to raise $152 for the Ukrainian Relief effort through Guardian Angels Church in Orillia. Planning for our Canada Day celebrations has begun and this year we have so much to celebrate. Look forward to our Canada Day Pancake Breakfast at the hall and our Canada Day Beer Garden, bands and BBQ to take you into the evening. Volunteers are needed for this event.

Upcoming Events: • April 13 - April Showers Country Jam • April 20 - Hoppin’ and Rockin’ Spring Jam - licensed by the LLBO Look for more events in the coming months that may include dart nights, trivia nights and more. The Lions Club is always looking for new members. If you are interested in attending a meeting as a guest or joining the club, please contact Rick Chase, 647-272-1961. We are actively seeking someone with a background in grants and\or finance.

See Us First for Your Home or Cottage Fireplace or Stove TRADITIONAL, CONTEMPORARY OR MODERN Exceptional products • Professional installation FLEXIBLE FINANCING PROGRAMS AVAILABLE.

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FOLLOWING PROVINCIAL COVID-19 GUIDELINES, SOCIAL DISTANCING REQUIREMENTS ARE STILL IN PLACE. For optimum safety, our store has Plexiglas barriers as well as hand sanitizer and masks stationed at each entrance.

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Activity and new initiatives abound By Jill Dunlop, MPP Simcoe North I wish everyone a happy spring. This time of year adds significantly to our ability to move around more freely especially as we can now see the positive result of having followed safety guidelines in our community. As I reflect on these past two years of uncertainty and the challenges we’ve faced, I am so thankful for the advancements made because of your perseverance and diligence. My pride in Simcoe North continues as I listen to and offer support to local families and businesses in response to your needs. Simcoe North has so much to offer with many small businesses providing dining, services, tourism, and recreation. Asking Simcoe North residents to consciously become patrons of local businesses has never been more important. From Queen’s Park, initiatives that directly impact Simcoe North residents: • The province invested $763M to provide Ontario’s nurses with a lump sum

provide companies in Ontario with retention incentive of up to $5,000 per greater access to public procurement person. This payment will help retain opportunities, helping them sell more nurses across the health sector and goods and services, create jobs in their stabilize the current nursing workforce local communities, and recover from the during this critical time. economic effects of the pandemic. • The government also invested an additional $25M annually in a new • The government announced a major expansion to medical school education streamlined Homelessness Prevention to ensure the province has more Program helping more people doctors to meet future needs across experiencing or at risk of homelessness the province, especially in growing and find the right housing services and other underserved communities. Ontario is supports. The additional funding brings adding 160 undergraduate seats and Ontario’s total annual to $463M in 2022295 postgraduate positions over the 23, almost half a billion dollars. next five years, the most significant • Ontario’s sport and recreation sector expansion of undergraduate and was among the first and hardest hit by postgraduate education in over ten the COVID-19 pandemic. The province years. announced an investment of $30M We have much to look forward to in 2022. to help offset increased costs due to COVID-19 and support the sector’s Remain safe, stay strong and please reach out to me with any assistance you may future recovery across the province. • The Building Ontario Businesses need with provincial issues 705-326-3246. Initiative will reduce barriers and

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Dr. Kathy Marchildon & Dr. Hilary Rodd 3843 Soules Road, Severn L3V 0V3 www.lakecountryanimal.ca 705-326-4800

We are open for business! Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm As the province opens for business, and in order to keep our customers and staff as safe as possible, we continue to follow all COVID-19 protocols that health experts advise. We ask you to participate and wear a mask when you enter our store.

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UPDATE Severn wins prestigious award The Township of Severn has been awarded a prestigious Marketing Canada Award by the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) for our new Brand Identity. The efforts by council and staff to develop the new Severn brand have now been recognized nationally for both quality and creativity. In developing the new brand, several goals were established. This included: to differentiate the community from nearby towns and cities; showcase Severn’s distinct community assets and the experiences to be enjoyed; to spark curiosity in tourists; to attract repeat business and drive investment to the area; and facilitate renewed civic pride Township of Severn’s logo now features multiple panels to symbolize a community of communities and is unified by visuals that can be found throughout Severn. Combined with a vibrant colour palette to reflect all four seasons and the ability to be separated into individual icons, this concept is a flexible solution for representing all that Severn has to offer. A statement from Mayor Mike Burkett said “We are proud to have been selected as the recipient for this highly competitive national award. For the new Severn visual identity to be recognized by a professional association and by our peers validates the high quality of the rebranding project. Council was committed to a process that acknowledged the significant history of the Township and that of our former municipal logo, while also accepting the need for change and a new brand. This project has allowed us to truly think and reflect on the unique character of our community, and the new Severn brand is a result of those sessions.” Township of Severn enacts Noise By-law Township of Severn By-law Department has seen an increase in short-term rental properties within Severn. This has led to a larger volume of complaints from residents regarding issues such as excessive noise, open-air burning, parking, property standards, littering and fireworks. Through meetings with Council, the creation of a Noise By-law was selected as a priority. Township staff completed a review of other municipal by-laws to determine the best approach and options for enforcement in Severn. On March 2, 2022, Council enacted the Noise By-law that applies to all lands and persons in the Township. The Noise By-law is available on the Townships’ website at severn. ca/bylaws. This by-law regulates certain noise in the Township, which includes: • No discharge of a firearm or gun: Monday to Thursday between 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. the next day Friday to Sunday between 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. the next day Continued on page 17

17 • No operation of a stereo system, electronic sound-emitting device, radios, boom boxes: Monday to Thursday 9:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. the next day Friday to Sunday 11:00 p.m. - 9:00 a.m. the next day • No operation of any construction vehicle or construction equipment: Monday to Thursday 9:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. the next day Friday to Sunday between 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. the next day • No operation of power or lawn maintenance equipment 9:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. the next day • No excessive noise Complaints can be made at severn.ca/bylaws. Include your name, phone number, address, and a description of the by-law infraction. Anonymous complaints will not be investigated. Exemptions to the by-law may be considered. Contact the clerk at clerk@severn. ca. Municipal Law Enforcement Officer, Cody Henderson: 705-3252315 x240. Email chenderson@severn.ca

ART’S Recreational Repairs (Since 1982)

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Local charity makes a difference Paso Por Paso is in its fifteenth year as a non-profit registered charity. For those unfamiliar with this volunteer organization, their mandate has been to provide programs in support of families in the Lake Atitlan area in Guatemala. Members of Paso Por Paso currently include residents from the Washago area and Orillia, among others. Over the years, they have sponsored students up to grade 12, offered scholarships to post-secondary students, provided microcredit loans for women, improved nutrition, provided school improvements and supplied emergency funds in time of need. Paso Por Paso members recognize the life of the indigenous Guatemalan people has always been difficult because of poor

New Patients Welcome!

health care and limited education. COVID-19 restrictions, along with a severe drought, resulted in a loss of economic opportunities, declining food supplies and growing malnutrition among children. One example of the type of support Paso Por Paso offers resulted from a trip members took to Guatemala in 2020. The Tierra Linda teachers voiced concern over the state of many desks which were broken beyond repair. Within a year, Paso Por Paso delivered 56 locally constructed desks to the school. Those desks equipped four classrooms, ensuring COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, allowing for more students to attend classes. More help will be provided to schools in the future. Another example of the charity Paso Por Paso offers is the microcredit/entrepreneurial program for women, launched primarily in the village of Tierra Linda. The program provides seed money on a low interest basis allowing for business development, entrepreneurial and business skills, personal empowerment, and leadership skills. In 2022 there are 40 microcredit loans planned. During Global COVID-19 restrictions, fundraising has been difficult but Paso Por Paso is looking forward to some events this year to bolster their bank account in order to help more people in a variety of ways. The two events planned are: their annual perennial plant sale on May 28th. The other is a multi-family garage sale on June 11th. Both will run from 8:00 a.m. – noon at 136 Peter Street North in Orillia. Paso Por Paso can also be found at the local Orillia farmers market where a large variety of genuine Guatemalan goods are offered for sale. If you wish to help or join this organization, sponsor a student, make a donation or find out more information about membership in this organization, visit their website at www.pasoporpaso.com.

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Spring stuffed bone-in leg of lamb This recipe will work well for a 5-6 lb. leg of lamb, bone-in. By Chef Becky STUFFING INGREDIENTS: • ½ cup freshly chopped herbs: parsley, thyme, basil, mint • 4-5 cloves of garlic, peeled and halved • ½ cup feta cheese • ½ cup cooked Canadian wild rice • Salt & pepper to taste • Butcher twine

Combine the stuffing ingredients in a bowl, mix together well and then stuff the pocket with that mixture. MARINADE: Using the butcher twine, wrap the leg well. • ¼ cup good quality olive oil, salt and Rub the leg with the marinade, wrap tightly pepper, zest of one lemon. Mix together. in plastic wrap and refrigerate 2-6 hours. STUFFING THE LEG: Using a sharp knife, make a pouch in the lamb, using the bone as your guide. Be careful not to cut past either end of the leg of lamb.

GRILLING INSTRUCTIONS: Pre-heat BBQ to 350°F. Remove plastic wrap from marinated leg and place aluminum foil around the exposed bone to prevent it from burning.

Rotate the leg while grilling for 45 minutes or to desired doneness. Remove, let rest covered with foil for 10 minutes and then serve. You may use your oven instead of a BBQ, making sure to cover with foil so as not to burn the bone area. Serve with local craft beer, wine or cider. Chef Becky Lennerton is proprietor of Black River Food Company and the innkeeper at Sir William Mackenzie Inn, Kirkfield, Ontario.

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Stay safe & healthy!

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We are here to help with COVID-19: Gloves • Wipes • Masks • Hand Sanitizer OPEN Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm

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Gravenhurst 705-687-3890

Bracebridge 705-646-8846

Huntsville 705-788-3810

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Community Events

April 9 Owl card making workshop. Under the guidance of master crafter, Janet Corion learn how to cut and fold a base; play with stamps, inks and papers to make a unique gift. 1:30-3:30 p.m. All materials provided. $25/person. Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, 705-526-7809 or events@ wyemarsh.com.

Farm. Look for Easter Eggs and trade for an Easter Loot Bag. Free Easter Bunny photos. Free parking. Wear boots! Purchase tickets $14 or $11.30/pre-purchased. 705-325-3000. Email hewittsfarmmarkets@gmail.com. www. hewittsfarmmarket.com.

April 20 The Washago Lions Club presents Hoppin’ and April 11 Rockin’ Spring Jam. This event is licensed by the The Washago Lions Club April Showers Country LLBO. 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the Lions Hall, Jam. 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at the Lion’s Hall, 4343 4343 Hamilton St., Washago Hamilton St., Washago. April 22/23 April 15-17 Roots North Music Festival returns to a live Hewitt’s Easter Festival. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. audience at the St. Paul’s Centre, 62 Peter St. Visit the Easter Bunny. Wagon rides, egg hunts, N., Orillia. Exciting and diverse acts including scavenger hunt, farm animals, play in the Fun Good Lovelies, Steve Poltz, Terra Lightfoot,

Logan Staats, Lydia Persaud Music, and Craig Mainprize Music. 705-242-4092. Tickets: https:// rootsnorthmusic.ticketleap.com/7th-annualroots-north-music-festival/dates

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Indigenous Authors Festival June 9-11, 2022 Hosted by the community of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, this festival will feature well-established and emerging Canadian Indigenous authors and illustrators; school visits and author readings. Event will be open to the public. Details will follow closer to the date.

Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative

705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775 www.leah-cavanaugh.c21.ca leah.cavanaugh@century21.ca Serving Orillia & District Call me today for a confidential pre-listing consultation.

MY FYI CORNER…

It is a rare occasion that I put myself “under the spotlight”! I am pleased to announce that I have been awarded the Century 21 Centurion Award for 2021. I am also very proud to announce that our office has received the Grand Centurion Office Award for 2021, and our Brokerage placed #8 in Canada and the #18 Century 21 Company globally! Congratulations to all of my colleagues for their achievements and heartfelt thanks to our support staff who go above and beyond to help us. Our office also placed 2nd in Canada for fundraising efforts with our charity of choice, Easter Seals.

CHECKING THE PULSE of our REAL ESTATE MARKET… Based on residential freehold, non-waterfront properties sold in February 2022 vs February 2021 in SEVERN,

the average sale price increased by 77.5% to $1,377,222. The monthly number of residential sales decreased by 19 for a total of 12 sales, three of which were waterfront.* * Data provided from our Matrix MLS System This advertisement not intended to solicit property for sale or buyers under contract.

Maple Grove Syrup and Sleigh Rides 100% Pure Maple Syrup Granulated Maple Sugar Soft Maple Candy VISIT: www.maplegrovesyrup.ca 2448 Burnside Line • CALL US: 705-321-2328 Family owned and operated location in Severn Township.

Lace up your runners and join The Hike for Hospice by Ellen Cohen Mariposa House Hospice and Hospice Orillia have announced that their annual fundraising hike will be an in-person event for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic. The event will take place on Sunday, May 1st, 2022 at Couchiching Beach Park in Orillia. The Hike for Hospice is integral for both organizations who work together to provide services across the continuum of hospice palliative care in Orillia and the surrounding townships, from diagnosis through end-of-life care, including bereavement support for surviving loved ones. One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the hike stay in the area by directly supporting those services. The event also enhances a sense of community, increases awareness of hospice palliative care, and raises much needed funds. There is no need for participants to be concerned about their competitive physical ability. The event is not a competition. ‘Hikers’ may choose to run, walk, wheel, hike or bike. There are several ways to help Hospice Orillia and Mariposa House Hospice achieve their goals. You can pledge money and walk on your own; you can form a team and raise money through those team members; or you can make an individual donation. Regardless of how you choose to support this fundraising event, your contribution will go a long way to supporting these organizations and their selfless volunteers who care so much for your community. Register to volunteer or to participate in the hike on Facebook – www.facebook.com/H4HOrillia. For more information, visit either www.mariposahousehospice. com or www.hospiceorillia.ca/h4h/ or go directly to www. charityvillage.com to donate. If you or someone you know is in need of palliative care, directly or as a family member or loved one, please be in touch with either Mariposa House Hospice or Hospice Orillia. They are there to serve you and your community.

Now!!!

SED LICEN Y L L O FU r LLB Unde

• ENJOY OUR HEATED PATIO • GRAB ‘N GO MEALS Shop at our Country Store OPEN Monday-Thursday, 8 am – 2 pm; Friday 8 am – 7 pm; Saturday, 8 am – 2 pm. We offer phone or online orders for takeout/curbside pickup; OR use the DOORDASH app and have your food delivered to your door.

Daily Specials on Facebook, Instagram or by Phone

www.captainsgrilldiner.ca • 705-619-3467 1287 Madison St., Severn Main Entrance off Carlyon Line, in Front of Silver Creek Estates

Take-out Sandwiches

Plan your Easter Dinner

Freshly prepared • Ask for panini press

Assorted turkeys, hams and spiral hams

EASTER TREATS!

Canoe bakers will prepare delicious and fun Easter specialty items for you and your family. Feel free to call ahead with your order.

Also PIZZA & SALADS!

CANOE BAKERY & CAFÉ • Breads, rolls, pies, butter tarts, squares, muffins, bagels, meat pies and more! • Enjoy a coffee and sweet take-out from our café. All take-out cups are biodegradable. • Fresh brewed Muskoka Roastery Coffee – Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Americano – or Latte Tea