August 2020
Township Update. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 More $ for connectivity. . . . . . . . . . 11 Shop local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Seniors club update. . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
A Washago icon moves on By Ellen Cohen Pat Warwick, the owner of Simply Special Originals is retiring, closing her store and moving on after 23 years of serving the Washago community and beyond. Simply Special Originals evolved from Pat’s home-based business on Cowbell Lane in Severn Bridge where she did sewing and clothing design. Twenty-three years ago, a close friend told her about a successful bed and breakfast for sale in a beautiful home on the main street of Washago. The timing was good and Pat and her late husband, Dave. They seized the opportunity. While operating the B&B, a business that they closed after 10 years, and concurrently running her sewing and clothing design business, the idea of a full service clothing store took shape in Pat’s mind. She identified a market that needed more attention – women older than 35 who wanted full service, help with choosing an entire outfit, including accessories. Taking a bold leap, Pat opened Simply Special Originals. Today, after a successful 23-year run and a testament to Pat’s skill and dedication to her customers, the business has amassed a database of approximately 1,000 customers including local women, cottagers, and residents from Collingwood, Barrie, Orillia, Midland and Haliburton. Pat’s had some fun running this business. For example, she said, one day a woman ran into the store and needed help badly – and fast. Pat helped the woman choose an outfit
and accessories. Without wasting time and without a lot of fuss, the woman, now looking fabulous, ran back out of the store rushing to get to where she needed to be. But Pat is not all about business. Among her fondest memories is the annual fashion show, a fundraising event that took place at the Washago Community Centre for almost two decades. Pat worked on the organizing committee and every year, along with many other fashion shops, presented her merchandise on the show’s runway. “This is the first year the show has been cancelled since its inception,” Pat said, adding while she choked up, “A friend and local resident, Nancy Morrison always said that the Fashion Show night was her favourite night of the year. Nancy has recently passed away and I’m moving out of the community. The timing for me to move on seems fitting somehow and is definitely part of the bittersweet feeling I have.” The beautiful home that houses her business has been sold. Simply Special Originals will close effective the end of August and, when the real estate deal closes on September 23rd, Pat and her partner, Norm plan to move to a home in the Vineland area of Ontario, to a comfortable retirement community. Pat knows that although retirement is exactly what she wants, as she prepares to leave there will be some difficult moments. “Moving on means leaving a community
Pat Warwick that I just cannot say enough good things about. I also have to say good-bye to Sue Renter and Suzanne Ball, the two women who have worked with me for the past 9 years.” Friends, colleagues, residents and business owners in Washago wish Pat the very best. Her contribution to her community will not be forgotten.
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3
Township Update Open by appointment The township administration office at 1024 Hurlwood Lane is now open by appointment. As mandated by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, masks are required when entering the building. To book an appointment email info@ townshipofsevern.com or call 705-3252315. Visit the township website for more details: townshipofsevern.com/COVID19. Garage/Yard sales – buying and selling If you are organizing a yard sale at your home, the local health unit has many recommendations that will help keep you and your customers safe, including wearing a mask, physical distancing and washing hands with soap and water frequently. The health unit also has important safety recommendations for anyone buying second-hand goods. Visit simceomuskokahealth.org. Under no circumstances should you hold a yard sale, or visit one, if you are ill or if you’ve been in contact with someone with COVID-19. New interactive job portal To assist with economic recovery, the County of Simcoe and area partners, including member municipalities, the cities of Barrie and Orillia and the Simcoe Muskoka Workforce Development Board are launching a new interactive job portal. The Work in Simcoe County site includes local resources and job opportunities. Visit workinsimcoecounty.ca for more details. Simcoe Pride Proclamation Mayor Mike Burkett, on behalf of council, proclaimed July 27 – August 9, 2020 as Fierte Simcoe Pride in Severn. The purpose
of the proclamation is to create and ensure a safe and inclusive community that supports gender and sexual diversity through services, activities and events. During the pandemic, public events will not take place. However, flags have been raised in communities throughout the region. More information is available at fietesimcoepride. com. Fire Ban Lifted – Campfires Only On July 9th, the fire ban was lifted for campfires only. These fires are defined as permissible for the burning of clean, dry wood only and for a fire no larger than 0.5 metres in diameter. The fire must be at least 10 metres away from your home and 3 metres away from your property line or any other structure. Please note that circumstances can change rapidly. The township website is always updated regarding fire rating and fire bans. More details and safety tips are available on the township website or by calling 705-3252315. COVID-19 Precautions As of the date of publication of this issue of The Villager, much of Ontario had entered into Stage 3, opening restaurants, increasing the number of people allowed to gather, etc. The province’s website has complete details. Visit Ontario.ca. In Severn, included in the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit service area, residents are required to wear masks when
© Can Stock Photo / fouroaks
entering any commercial building. In addition, to further help stop the spread of the virus, the township advises residents to continue to follow all recommended safety protocols including washing hands frequently, maintaining social distancing of a minimum of 2 metres, and staying home when ill.
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4 From the Publisher:
Look for the ‘Washago’ letters on the side of the Washago Home Hardware building.
Washago Art Club members just never stop! 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
You’ve seen and enjoyed the beautifully painted bird houses on the hydro poles throughout Washago. They’ve been hanging for a couple of months and will stay up until Labour Day weekend. Take a little time between now and then and pick out your favourites because…they could be yours through a silent auction. Scoopz Ice Cream shop has partnered with the art club. Drop in any day to place your bid. You’ll find photos of the art pieces in a binder where you’ll be able to register. Stay tuned for results. In addition to the bird houses, the club has produced the Washago letters you see in the photo above. Rich Harmer of Home Hardware has agreed to display these beautifully created letters permanently on the side of his building. The wall has been prepared for the hanging of this artwork and, by the time this issue of The Villager is published, will likely be displayed. Thank you to the Washago Art Club for the work you do. Your contributions to beautifying our community is very much appreciated.
Bad behaviour can ruin a day. Support your local post office. I’ve been to the Washago Post Office many times since the beginning of the pandemic. More than once during my visits, I’ve been dismayed by the reaction of a few people who not only ignore the COVID-19 protocols that we are asked to follow, but also display anger or rudeness towards the post office employees. Those who have behaved in this manner, please be aware that every time you do this, you have ruined someone’s day. You’ve probably hurt someone and increased their anxiety. Sadly, the people displaying such bad behaviour are local residents which to me makes it even worse. How is it possible that our own neighbours can be so unkind to the post office staff who day after day, year after year deliver our packages, letters, cards, magazines and flyers? Is there anyone you’ve been able to count on more every day of your life – especially during this pandemic? Consider this: the tiny staff at this post office is experiencing about a 400% increase in packages. Four-hundred percent! PLUS they still have to sort and deliver all
commercial mail, including this very copy of The Villager you’re reading right now. All of this is with the same staff they had prepandemic. Thankfully, most residents are understanding and grateful for the work our local post office does. But to those who choose bad behaviour, could you instead take a moment to think about all post office staff who are working so hard to serve your personal needs, all day, every day since the very first moment of the pandemic lockdown. In closing, I’ll ask everyone to step up. Whether you’re guilty of being impatient or even rude to the post office staff, or you’re one of the kindest, most understanding of post office customers, next time you go to the post office, how about a friendly wave, a kind word, a bouquet of flowers from your garden? Do anything that shows respect, understanding and kindness and you will help to turn a day filled with stomach churning anxiety into a day filled with happiness. Isn’t this how we each want to represent our wonderful community?
Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.
5
Nighthawks coming through By Ron Reid
In late August and early September, the evening skies may bring you a special treat – the annual southward migration of Common Nighthawks. These graceful fliers have a style all their own – a pattern that has been described as “looping, batlike bouts of continuous flapping and sporadic glides”. And since they usually fly at tree-top level or below, they provide you with chances to get a good look. Nighthawks are classed as a “crepuscular” species, which means that they only fly and feed at dusk and dawn, generally within a half-hour before and after sunset or before sunrise. Despite their name, they are not hawks at all, but one of only two local species in the goatsucker family – so called because of an old wives’ tale that these birds latched on to goat to steal their milk. The other goatsucker in our part of Ontario is the Whip-poor-will. When members of this family are at rest, they are very well camouflaged, clad in mottled brown and greys that blend in well with natural surroundings. But when they fly, Nighthawks are easily identified by the distinctive white bars near the outer end of each wing, as well as their loopy flight. During the spring and early summer nesting season, male Nighthawks fly above their mates, giving a nasal peent call, and often diving towards the open ground with a booming sound. But on migration, they generally are silent. Nighthawks feed almost entirely on flying insects, and sometimes can be seen working
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their way through the crowds of moths and flying ants around streetlights. They prefer open areas for nesting, including sandy dunes, open rocklands, alvars and grassy fields. Decades ago, they were a common bird of downtowns, where they would make use of flat gravelly roofs for nesting habitat. Unfortunately, most of those roofs have been replaced by a rubbery surface which © Can Stock Photo / GizmoPhoto isn’t suitable for Nighthawks. In North America, this species is incredibly route and wintering grounds could also be widespread, documented to be nesting factors. So over the next few weeks, keep an eye in every province and in every state in the continental U.S.A. Along some sections out for Nighthawks, and take a moment to of the Great Lakes, such as western Lake appreciate the graceful flight of this species Superior and the Georgian Bay coast, this at risk. can result in large flocks passing by during A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron fall migration. Nonetheless, this species Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the is designated as threatened in Canada, co-founder and former executive director of because its population has declined by The Couchiching Conservancy. He has written more than half since the 1960s. more than 30 magazine articles and co-authored How could a species that occurs so widely three books. He lives in Washago with his wife, be in such danger? A big part of the cause Janet Grand. is likely linked to the widespread decline in insect populations, which WEDDINGS • WAGON RIDES • SLEIGH RIDES seems to be happening everywhere. In some areas, the loss of nesting habitats to agriculture or other uses might also be a factor. And since Nighthawks migrate all the way to South America 705-689-0182 for the winter, hazards Christine Jameson: christine@twinmaplesfarm.ca along their migration
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6
Exciting, new online nature programs By Courtney Baker The Passport to Nature, a program that offers free events to the public throughout the year has proven to be one of the Couchiching Conservancy’s most successful outreach programs ever. The challenges presented by the pandemic just can’t stop it! The Passport has been so popular that the model has been adopted by other environmental non-profits across Canada. Sponsorships of our local program have included Sojourn Outdoors, Lynda Hepinstall of Century 21, Bayview Wildwood Resort, Pioneer Handcraft, K. McKechnie Architectural Design, and many others. Our programming has included paddles, hikes, art and children’s events - something for everyone. However, as the global pandemic cut us off from supporters, sponsors and participants we had to get creative and work to find a way to keep the momentum going.
Participants enjoy last year’s the Passport to Nature butterflies event in a field of milkweed. Photo by Susan Blayney. That is why the Passport to Nature has put on a new face. You can participate digitally through free webinars and selfguided programs. To begin our new programming, the Orillia Horticultural Society will provide a list of their top wildflowers that anyone can grow in a small garden or even a balcony. This online event will be followed by a presentation from Miriam Goldberger from the Wildflower Farm. Miriam will showcase plants that are currently blooming and demonstrate how to make a beautiful bouquet of wildflowers. We will also host a series of self-guided
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events for kids and families. The first of which is ‘Up Close with Nature’ encouraging young adventurers to get out and get close. Take a magnifying glass, or just a keen eye and think about how the tiny things in nature support the big things. To register for the programs, visit http:// couchichingconserv.ca/about-us/eventscalendar/ Here’s to us sticking together and supporting nature in difficult times! Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant for The Couchiching Conservancy, protecting nature for future generations, including pollinators.
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Coldwater’s Steampunk goes virtual By Ellen Cohen Nothing is as it was, including the Steampunk Festival. There will be no street celebration this year. However, fans will still be able to have plenty of Steampunk fun – online – including films, games, and art, writing and costume competitions. One of the most exciting highlights of this year’s virtual Steampunk is a new original web series: The Sawbones Society. Created by festival figurehead Sarah Pickard, aka Dr. Vera Morphine, the series presents a black comedy about a 19th century cottage hospital, filmed at the Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Museum. The cast consists of young adults who have been very involved in the Steampunk Festival for the past decade. The videos will be uploaded to the Coldwater Steampunk Festival You Tube channel every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the month of August. Steampunk fans and art lovers will be able to visit Coldwater at their leisure to view new outdoor art installations on display until September 2nd. Look for the
Wonderful Flying Time Machine display at 20 Coldwater Rd.; Ron Schell’s Barn Stormer piece at the ice cream shop; a locally created retrospective on the 10 years of Steampunk in Coldwater, Ten Gears for Ten Years; and a replica of a blue Tardis Dr. Who phone box created by local artist and entrepreneur, Phill Holder. Online music concerts will include Victoria Harbour’s Dylan Lock. He is a musician who has raised $40,000 for frontline workers by playing gigs in his driveway and has been sponsored by Cooperators Insurance. Also, musician Nick Howell will be live streaming concerts. During the month of August, 20 Coldwater Rd. will be turned into a recording studio inviting, by appointment, local artists to do a live broadcast. Performers can video a demo, or promote themselves. Recordings will be launched on a You Tube channel and on Facebook. Suzy Burtenshaw, the Steampunk organizer, told The Villager, “Our virtual festival opens up Steampunk to the world!
26-ACRE HOBBY FARM Spectacular parcel that has so much to offer! The 1,800 sq. ft. home is accessed from a charming covered verandah. The house has a great floor plan and features 3 bedrooms, main floor family room with cozy woodstove, walkout from dining room to a spacious deck and gazebo, and an inside entry to an oversized attached garage. This unique listing also includes a separate garage/workshop “man cave”; a 3-stall horse barn that has water, hydro, loft storage and an attached drive shed; a fenced paddock and dressage ring; and a 65’x45’ Calhoun structure with hydro and 14’ door. With approximately 3 acres of electric fencing, the property is secure for dogs. The new owners will enjoy the incredible peaceful country setting, the trails through the mixed hardwood forest, and the excellent set up for equestrian or other hobbies. Asking $848,000. MLS#267864.
It’s Business as Usual… In an Unusual Way Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative
705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775 www.LeahCCavanaugh.ca leah.cavanaugh@century21.ca Not intended to solicit properties for sale or buyers under contract.
Please contact me for a confidential consultation outlining the measures we can take to safely attend to your real estate needs during these ever-changing times.
I am amazed at the creativity of those who have contributed. It’s inspirational. Steampunk lives on.” Steampunk 2020 is grateful for grants received this year from Canada Heritage and Celebrate Ontario. For up-to-date and comprehensive information about virtual Steampunk, visit steampunkfestivalcoldwater.com, and visit Coldwater any day between August 6th and September 2nd to view the outdoor art installations.
• 7 0 5-71 7-03 2 2 •
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Retirement Sale! – until the end of
August –
Dressing the Lady ‘better than 35’ To all my valued friends and customers: As most of you know, this old beautiful home of Simply Special Originals has been for sale, looking for the right person to give it the tender loving care it so deserves. It is with mixed emotions I tell you we have sold and I will be moving on to my much anticipated retirement.
Please keep in mind we are still under COVID-19 protocol and request you wear a mask. We are only allowing 3 people at a time in the shop, so we would ask you to limit your shopping time to 1/2 hour.
HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10am - 3pm • Closed Sunday 3363 Muskoka St., Washago • 705-689-6603 • washagovillageinn@sympatico.ca
9
Moving on as Simcoe North gets back to new normal By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton I hope this column finds you and yours well this summer; coping both with the ongoing pandemic and the re-launch of our economy and community activities. It is heartening to see the cooperation and consideration of residents of our area who are following the advice of medical experts by wearing a mask while indoors in public spaces. This all helps get us back to as normal as one can while reducing the spread of COVID-19. As I’ve said in the past, I was honoured to win the 2019 election. In fact, I have found each of the five contests I’ve been in since 2006 to be highly competitive and never a foregone conclusion. As you know, nationally, the Liberal Party won a 2nd mandate in 2019, though a minority parliament this time. Historically in Canada, minorities last less than two years, on average. It was with that in mind that,
after more than fourteen years as your MP, I felt it was the appropriate time for a new candidate to represent my party in the next election. I advised the riding association in June that I will finish this term but that they should prepare to select a new candidate in the months ahead. It is difficult to say when this will all happen, but I suspect it could be as early as later this year, or more likely early in 2021. If the minority government loses the confidence of the House of Commons and an election is called, the whole process will happen as soon as possible. I remain the active MP until Election Day.
I will finish by thanking you for the support, questions and comments you have provided me during my terms as your MP. It has been the privilege of my life (aside from being married to Heather) to represent this community. Just a quick update on the status of Simcoe North constituency services: our offices are open now, by pre-arranged appointment. Passport clinics and our office services for passports remain postponed until Passport Canada reopens for routine new applications and renewals. Heather and I wish you all a wonderful summer ahead.
COVID-19 health guidelines and mandatory protocols may change based on new scientific information or the number of reported cases. For the most current information, check regularly on www.townshipofsevern.com or www.ontario.ca
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11
More $ for connectivity, community supports and students By Jill Dunlop, MPP Simcoe North These past few months have been extremely challenging for businesses and residents alike as we prudently follow guidelines in place to remain safe. The results have proven successful but we must remain mindful as we continue to move through the re-opening of our region. Engaging with communities, I’ve listened to many express frustrations as regards working or studying virtually from home. To address this, I was pleased to recently announce a major step in the expansion of SWIFT broadband internet. Requests for Proposals will close in September. Our commitment to this also included the Improving Connectivity for Ontario (ICON) program, connecting more unserved and remote homes and businesses. A $57-million Digital Main Street initiative was also launched, aiding in the creation, launch and enhancement of online presence for business recovery.
Residential, farm and small business also received support this summer with the introduction of a fixed, flat “COVID-19 Recovery Rate”, providing continued stability for time-of-use customers. November 1, 2020, customers will have the choice of timeof-use or tiered rate pricing to best suits their needs. To increase community-based and Indigenous-specific supports for child and youth victims, our new five-year strategy combating human trafficking and child sexual exploitation was introduced. The AntiHuman Trafficking Community Supports Fund and the Indigenous-led Initiatives Fund prioritizes early intervention and increased protection for victims of sexual exploitation and survivor supports. For all students, we are breaking down barriers through a system-wide change and a focus on supporting Black, Indigenous and racialized learners for student success.
I am proud to be a part of an immediate, concrete action for students, families, and communities following a year of successful consultation and community engagement. Supports for the mental wellbeing of students is a priority with one solution being the purchase and distribution of over 35,000 devices (computers and tablets) to help ensure students return to school with the tools and confidence they require. This funding represents the highest amount the Ministry of Education has ever dedicated to these two areas. Thank you for doing your part in flattening the curve. As summer closes and we move to fall sessions at Queens Park, I look forward to further conversations and engagement as I continue to work hard for Simcoe North.
Please help us keep our customers and staff safe In addition to our standard COVID-19 protocols – physical distancing and one person per group shopping at a time – please note that effective July 13, 2020 the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has mandated the use of masks while inside a store.
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12
Black River picnic Apple wood smoked BBQ chicken baguette with a watermelon and Feta salad drizzled with a balsamic reduction By Chef Becky SANDWICH: • 2 cups sliced or shredded chicken. Can substitute with beef, smoked trout, cooked pork roast, etc. • 1 baguette - your favourite high quality and local. Sliced in half lengthwise, lightly buttered. • Your favourite mayo or sandwich spread. • Garlic Hummus • 1 ½ cups mixed baby greens
• 2 small or 1 large sliced field tomato • Bermuda onion, small, thinly sliced • Avocado sliced, optional • Shrimp, 4 large cooked • 4 grape tomatoes • 4-6 slices of any smoked Ontario cheese, Gouda, cheddar, Havarti, etc. - or a mixture • 8 slices local field tomato
Serve this sandwich and salad with ice cold homemade iced tea or lemonade – or one of the great local ciders or brews. WATERMELON & WILD MINT SALAD: Watermelon, slice into triangles and place in a line on a platter. Crumble feta cheese over melon and top with wild chopped mint and cracked black pepper if desired. Drizzle with your favourite balsamic dressing. Balsamic reduction method: reduce balsamic vinegar in a heavy pot over medium heat until vinegar reduces by about half and balsamic thickens.
To assemble, first toast baguette until butter is melted and it is slightly browned. Spread mayo on one half, hummus on the other. Then layer ingredients, starting with meat on the bottom half of baguette, and ending with the lettuce. Sliced olives, pickles, beets, mustard are all options here. Top with baguette and skewer with shrimp and tomato with toothpicks. Wrap tightly and whole if transporting. Use a sharp bread knife to cut through the sandwich Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited. in desired lengths.
ART’S Recreational Repairs (Since 1982)
Outboard, Sterndrive, Pontoon, Pwc Service All Seasons Indoor & Outdoor Storage Abyc Certified For Electrical Repairs & Rigging WE ARE YOUR LOCAL PARTS DEPOT
Call 705-689-8194 Email: artsrecreation@aol.com 1330 Canning Rd. Severn Bridge, ON P0E 1N0
OPEN MONDAY – SATURDAY AT 8:00 A.M. Visit Our Facebook Page for Daily Specials • Check out our Country Store • Serving Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream
1287 Madison St., Severn • 705-619-3467 Directly in front of Silver Creek Estates, a couple of minutes off Highway 11, exit Carlyon Line
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The fruits of your labour By Karen Kahle, proprietor of Fern Forest Garden Centre, www.fernforest.ca First-time gardeners will be delirious during the month of August. Vegetables are hanging from stems from one end of the garden to the other. Dozens of cherry tomatoes and loads of green beans and peas have been picked and devoured. New flower beds, planted from seed or seedling, have matured and are now in full glory. Black-eyed Susans, asters, cone flowers and phlox are swaying in the wind. The flowers of day lilies and blue lobelia are brilliant. And all are landing zones for a variety of bees and butterflies. Feeling satisfied and perhaps a little smug about what you’ve created, sitting back and enjoying the fruits of your labour is the right thing to do – but not every day, all day! Your garden still needs some help from you, particularly if you want to harvest the maximum amount of vegetables and have a lasting perennial flower garden. A few tips for gardening during the month of August: • Mulch: It is likely there will be many days of extreme heat and some drought.
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Check your mulch for decomposition. It’s a good time to spread a mid-season layer of compost or manure to ensure protection of plants. Disease and pests: Check your vegetable and flowers for evidence of disease. If you find curled, brown or otherwise damaged leaves or stems, dispose of them immediately – in the garbage, not the compost pile. Do your best to identify the cause of damage. Google is helpful for identification and treatment. Harvest: For maximum amounts of vegetables, keep up with harvesting. Pick when ripe. Don’t leave them on the plant © Can Stock Photo / fullempty for squirrels, rabbits or deer. Deadhead: To keep your garden looking have earlier in the season. its best and to encourage new growth, • Order spring-blooming bulbs. continue with deadheading of all • Japanese beetle protection for next year starts now. Purchase and apply perennials and annuals. Nematodes as directed. Fertilize: Continue with fertilizing flowers until the end of the month, or as • Trees and shrubs need some rest. Stop recommended by the specific fertilizer fertilizing about mid-August unless you have purchased. otherwise directed by the fertilizer purchased. Water and weed all garden beds as you
We are open for business! Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm
CPA, CGA
Call for an appointment
705-514-2522
• Accounting System Implementation • Bookkeeping • Tax Preparation 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE
3378 Muskoka Street, PO Box 6 Washago, ON L0K 2B0 www.accountingwashago.com chebert@accountingwashago.com
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.
INTRODUCING
Henry
Henry is one of the family members of our newest line of advanced vacuums by NaceCare • Recovers 20% more soil • Reduces energy consumption by over 40% • Reduces noise levels • Doubles average motor life • Canister, upright, wet vac
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Giving during hard times By Ellen Cohen In this, the 3rd installment published to inform our readers about local charitable organizations in our community, we feature the Terry Fox Run and Mariposa House Hospice. In spite of difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic, both organizations will host fundraising events in order to raise much needed funds. Dustyn Pilger
CERTIFIED LANDSCAPE DESIGNER
nuscapelandscaping.com • 705-229-9388
Terry Fox Foundation/Terry Fox Run The Terry Fox Run has taken place every year since 1981 and to date has raised $750 million. The money raised goes to cancer research. In fact, there are people in our own community who are participating in clinical trials. They are living with cancer, alive today because of the very research made possible by donations from the Terry Fox Run. The brave and beloved Terry Fox once said, “Anything is possible if you try.” This year the Foundation have lived up to his words. Because the run cannot be held during the pandemic, a virtual event will take place. Called “One Day. Your Way”, participants may walk, run, ride, skip or wheel in their own neighbourhood. Or you can even use your driveway, your yard, or your living room, and you can participate individually or as part of a team. Register for the September 20, 2020 Terry Fox Run at terryfox.ca/ terryfoxrun/Orillia.
Mariposa House Hospice
Garden & Lawn Maintenance New Landscaping Installations
This state-of-the-art facility, slated to open in September in Severn Township, will allow people living their final days to spend that precious time in peaceful and comfortable surroundings. The hospice will be staffed by a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers who will provide compassionate palliative care. End of life care at Mariposa House Hospice will include physical, emotional, spiritual and psychological support for the patient and their family members. It has been carefully designed to provide a home-like environment but still have the capacity to the meet the needs of family, friends and professionals. Similar to other non-profits, fundraising has been a challenge during the pandemic but they’ve met the challenge by creating a new event, one they hope will help to make up some of their immediate needs. During the month of August, you can join their Virtual Golf Tournament. There are several local golf courses offering special deals including, at the time of publication, Lake St. George, Hawk Ridge and Couchiching. Players will be required to register and then record scores online. To join the fun of the tournament or to make a donation to Mariposa House Hospice, visit mariposahousehospice.com.
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Please, shop local The small village of Washago is fortunate to have two important businesses serve the community. They are open year round but rose to the challenges of the pandemic shutdown and into what is now Phase 3 Canoe Fresh Foods and Ben’s Pharmacy – food and prescription drugs – have helped people in isolation or facing limited travel beyond measure. Thanks to their management and staff, as the province has moved through pandemic phases, both businesses were able to adjust their service according to provincial COVID-19 guidelines while consistently providing the community with essential services.
Canoe Fresh Foods
Ben’s Pharmacy
Ryan McLean has operated this established business since July of 2018. When he bought the business from Rod and Mary Harth, he was determined to provide the same wide range of products, including fresh meat and baked goods, and to ensure that most employees were able to stay with Canoe. Both goals were important to residents of Washago and area: customers had come to rely on Canoe for their day-to-day shopping, and many in the small village relied on Canoe for employment opportunities. Two years later, Canoe does not disappoint. Ryan has made subtle but important refinements to the business and today the bakery and café is a favourite of customers, as is the selection of fresh meats and the delicatessen at the rear of the store. Canoe has not closed one day during the pandemic and although hours were adjusted over the past few months in order to give the staff a little break, most days the store offers 10 hours of shopping time.
One of the gems in the village of Washago, also an essential service, is Ben’s Pharmacy. A small store, well-stocked with overthe-counter products, has served the community well throughout these difficult times. While we were all developing extreme angst at the beginning of the pandemic, fearful that pharmacies might be closed or there would be a shortage of the prescription drugs on which so many of us rely, the pharmacist, Leah Beers and her staff, never faltered. Customers are their #1 concern. All COVID-19 protocols and safety precautions are in place in order to keep everyone as safe as possible. It’s hard to imagine how such a small pharmacy is able to satisfy the needs of thousands of local residents, but they do. They are professionals dedicated to a very grateful community.
3843 Soules Road, Orillia www.lakecountryanimal.com 705-326-4800
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JILL DUNLOP
MPP, Simcoe North
DR. KATHY MARCHILDON and DR. SANDY DRURY
Mon., Wed., Thur., Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Tues. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Evening appointments available.
Protect Your Pets!
ORILLIA OFFICE: 14 Coldwater Road W. Orillia, ON, L3V 3L1 MIDLAND OFFICE: 295 King Street, Suite 6 TD Canada Trust Bank Plaza Midland, ON, L4R 3M5 jill.dunlopco@pc.ola.org
Now is the time to book your appointment for your pet – protect them from Lyme disease (ticks), fleas and heartworm…and never, ever leave your pet in the car during these hot summer months!
! bout you We care a g social
Practicin are. contact c o n / g in c distan r details. Call us fo
BRUCE STANTON, M.P. SIMCOE NORTH
575 West St. S., Unit 12 Orillia, ON L3V 7N6 Tel: 705-327-0513 • Fax: 705-327-8310 bruce.stanton@parl.gc.ca www.BruceStantonMP.ca
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Better Value Plumbing & Heating Inc.
Beau Repairs
• For all your plumbing and hydronic needs •
Working for SENIORS
“Little Jobs, Little Prices” Board Fence & Deck Repairs - Plumbing - Odd Jobs
Free Estimates
705-330-5182
Serving Gravenhurst to Barrie area
40 Years Experience
LANDSCAPE & CONSTRUCTION Walkways • Steps • Driveways • Patios Design and Build – Free estimates
Glenn Brochu • 705-321-2132 3901 Menoke Beach Rd., Severn
705-689-6676
(689-NORM)
“Proudly serving the local community.”
ENTERPRISES
Blown Fiberglass Insulation INSTALL QUALITY INSULATION IN YOUR ATTIC If you haven’t looked in your attic for years – or ever! – we could potentially save you 100s of $$ monthly.
Call today for an appointment and a free estimate.
Randy Tinline 705-835-3877
No Water?
New Installations and Repairs on Wells and Lake Draw Systems SEPTIC DESIGN and INSTALL SERVICE TRENCHING FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING LOT CLEARING
CHAD COOKE 705-826-2028 chad@system6stucco.com
Pump & Electric Motor Repairs Call RICK Today
Just Fix It 705-689-RICK (7425)
Over 27 Years Experience
Licensed by Ministry of Natural Resources
Dan
The
Wood Man Tree Removal Junk Removal Demolitions FULLY INSURED
705-689-2223
(ABCD)
www.danthewoodman.ca
cell: 705-323-7808 danthewoodman@hotmail.ca
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
Anita Matthews Sales Representative
Direct: 416.879.4203 anitahouse1@gmail.com AnitaHouse.ca
Thinking of Selling? Call for a FREE consultation!
tracy maday
3435 Timberline Ave Severn L3V 0V8 quality cuts
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705-514-0068 & shaves
BayouBarber.ca
BOARD YOUR DOG OR SMALL ANIMAL NO KENNEL. NO CRATE.
Stay safe & healthy!
We are designated as an essential business. See us for your homecare, mobility and other needs.
We are here to help with COVID-19: Gloves • Wipes • Masks • Hand Sanitizer OPEN Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm
SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • www.homecomfortcare.ca
Gravenhurst 705-687-3890
Bracebridge 705-646-8846
Huntsville 705-788-3810
We’ll keep your pet happy and safe at our large house on 6 acres of fenced property. Young or old. Special needs accepted.
OPEN FOR BUSINESS Up-to-date Advantage application required.
REFERENCES PROVIDED OVERNIGHT OR WEEKLY RATES
705-689-6246 • frogpond@xplornet.ca
ORILLIA FOOT CLINIC & WELLNESS CENTRE Your One Stop Spot for Head-To-Toe Health
Tony Young BSc, DCh - Chiropodist Accepting New Patients for Professional Foot Care Services Chiropody appointments available; government restrictions have been lifted. Please call or email for information.
333 Mary Street, Orillia 705.259.2838 www.ofcwc.com Relax and enjoy your time away from your cottage or home!
SECURITY • MAINTENANCE • CLEAN UP
Darren Rutledge 416-527-0507 rutledge.dt@gmail.com RutledgeCottageService.com
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Reimagine & Reopen Let’s share the right message
info@georgianbayprinters.com
705 327 5152
AUGUST SPECIALS
Postcards Qty 2500
4x6” – D/S Colour
$325.00+HST
Friendships remain strong By Marylynne White, President What a time we are all going through. As our members and their families know, our social times together have always been joyful and informative and now, missing our spring meetings has been difficult. However, even though the club is not operating presently due to the Covid-19 virus, our friendships remain strong through phone calls and emails. Our executive board are constantly in communication with the members, ensuring everyone has up to date formation, including the latest regarding a possible reopening of the club. Until we are permitted to meet again in large groups, and based on when the Community Centre opens again, we will just have to wait this time through. We will continue to use the guidelines of the Ontario Ministry of Health as well as any directives we get from Severn Township. It is important to note that our yearly dues are not being asked for at this time. Every Member will be informed when it is safe to begin our club meetings again and, in the meantime, club members who have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to call or email me: Marylynne White, 705-689-4719, williamwhite@rogers.com. Until we meet again, stay well and enjoy the rest of this lovely summer.
Signage Vinyl Banners Feather Flags Sneeze Guards* A Frame Lawn Signs Floor Decals Floor Arrows
* WELCOME Back!
Some conditions may apply. Special must be mentioned at time of order. ‘Ready to print ’file(s) required
www.georgianbayprinters.com 17 Colborne St. East, Unit# 101 Orillia, ON. L3V 1T4
FREE DELIVERY TO: Orillia, Ramara, Washago, Severn, Coldwater, Midland, Oro, Barrie
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR We specialize in ALL SMALL MOTORS: Snow Blowers • Chainsaws • Lawn/Rider Mowers THE BEST PRICES ON CHAINSAW CHAIN SHARPENING & WELDING!
Call 705-689-5837
5276 Dean Trail, Washago
The Risk?
It's Worth A Conversation
Open 7 days a Week: Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. • Sunday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Always an excellent selection of Roasts, Chops, Steaks, Ground Beef, Chicken
Full line of competitively priced groceries.
Great variety of Vegetables and Fruit Fresh to create a great meal!
Delicious, freshly prepared take-out Sandwiches • Ask for panini-press Pizza • Salads
TO OUR CUSTOMERS: We exercise all possible precautions to keep our premises clean for your protection. Please join us in practicing all recommended COVID-19 precautions, including wearing a mask, sanitizing your hands as you enter our store, and social distancing. Other customers and our staff appreciate your cooperation. If you prefer to use our delivery service, please call us to make arrangements.
CANOE BAKERY & CAFÉ • Breads, rolls, pies, butter tarts, squares, muffins, bagels, meat pies and more! • Fresh brewed Muskoka Roastery coffee • Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Americano, Latte Tea, Iced Coffee • All take-out cups are biodegradable Like us on