The Villager 2017 December

December 2017

Washago Santa parade. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Community Centre programs…16, 17 Special Christmas section . . . . . . 18-23 Recipe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

The joy of Christmas

By Ellen Cohen The Christmas season is filled with joy. It’s a time for giving and is especially exciting for children.

And not meaning to take away any the joy, it’s not wrong to say that there is a lot of commercialism that can also make us feel a little jaded.

Big box stores whip away all the trick or treat candy and costumes the day after Halloween. All of that is replaced with rows upon rows of Christmas decorations and lights. Shelves are filled with toys and candies, games and TV’s, and so many other items we didn’t need the day before, but must have.

This is just about the time we also see flyers showing up in local mailboxes with urgent messages. It’s important, they say, to get a new kitchen or install a walk-in tub, or buy new furniture, or get our teeth whitened – all BEFORE Christmas.

Thankfully, the shops in smaller communities are a little more discreet.

It’s usually late November before they decorate. Unlike the big box stores that decorate with plastic Santas that pop up and down, these lovely smaller shops decorate with beautiful Christmas wreaths, holly, sandalwood or cranberry scented candles, and pine boughs.

About the same time local shops are gearing up for Christmas, people have decorated their homes and front yards.

© Can Stock Photo / evgenyatamanenko

Blinking lights on trees set up in living room windows can be seen from the road. Strings of multi-coloured lights are often placed on large pine trees. This is all so beautiful.

Lights, somehow, help us reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

On the down side, and not very joyful, there is an awful lot of pressure on parents to make Christmas Day perfect. It’s a very difficult time of year for parents who have modest incomes, or less. It can be terribly difficult for their children who may receive very little under the tree, especially compared to their friends. Does this mean Santa thinks they are bad children?

Hopefully most of us who have so much have been generous with our donations to those who have so little. There’s still time.

Back to the joy of Christmas – the photo of the girl (on this page) is a stock photo, a photo purchased from an online service. It is a joyful scene.

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Because it’s not a ‘real photo’, we can make up any story we want about this obviously happy girl.

She could be the only daughter of a family who lives in comfort. She received many, many Christmas gifts including electronics and clothing and jewelry. Perhaps the new mittens were a stocking stuffer.

Or this girl could be from a single parent family who struggle to get by. She is the eldest of four children. The new mittens she is wearing were her ‘big’ gift. They were handmade by her mother.

Whatever story you believe, there is no doubt that in either case, the girl is feeling joy. Happy to be outside in the snow and the sunshine, wearing her new mittens that keep her hands warm.

In either story, the girl is experiencing the joy of Christmas. Surely that’s what she wishes for you, too.

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3

Local artist Kathy Nicholson “When I was about 13 years old, I spent many, many hours with a cousin who was a very talented artist. I loved it and realized it was more than just drawing – at least the way most kids like to do. It was what I wanted to do forever,” said Kathy Nicholson, a local artist known for her watercolours, acrylics and specially commissioned cartoon drawings.

As it is with most artists, the road to the point of what many would consider success – the sale of their work – meant practice, focus and continuous learning, disciplines Kathy learned and appreciated very early in life.

“I was lucky that I understood at an early age that if I was going to be an artist, there was so much to learn. Because of this, as a teen when my family moved from Severn Bridge to Bracebridge, I enrolled in night classes for art instruction and, to this day, I’ve never stopped taking classes,” she said.

Early in her adult life, Kathy got her teaching certificate, a ‘real job’ that help support her family. She worked and lived in

Sault Lookout and The Yukon. After 6 years away, she came back to Severn Township and taught primary school, mostly special education until she retired.

For almost 20 years, she has lived in a house on the Green River she shares with her partner, Mike. She also spends as much time as she can with her granddaughter, her son’s daughter, who lives in Toronto.

In addition to her family and her art, Kathy has spent the past year and half+ as chair of the Friends of the Washago Water Tower committee. She worked with community members, township officials, donors and suppliers. There were sometimes obstacles, difficulties in moving the project along, but she never gave up. The result – there is now a brand new art installation, a massive wrap showcasing artist, John LeBarr’s work, on the iconic water tower. It’s a beautiful piece of art that will soon become synonymous with the village.

Kathy is involved in the Washago Art Club and was one of the artists featured in the last two summer outdoor art installations

An example of one of Kathy’s many paintings inspired by a scene in Severn Township.

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Local artist, Kathy Nicholson’s favourite thing to do is to work on her art while surrounded by nature.

– the canoe paddles and the maple leaves. She was also involved in initiatives that launched the Pop-Up Art Gallery on Washago’s main street in 2016, and the art sale this year at the community centre.

It’s obvious that Kathy has imagination and vision but she says her preparation is key to determining what her paintings end up looking like and how happy she is with the result.

“Whenever I am starting a new painting, I have a plan. I start a new painting with one of my sketches or photos and determine ahead of time in what order I will paint. I also decide before I start what pallet to use.

I do this every time. Whatever work I do ahead of time, I believe it pays off for me,” she said.

You can see the results of Kathy’s preparation, imagination and talent at her new show. BK Gallery, just outside of Washago, will show a good selection of her work for the month of December.

You can also see some of her work on her Facebook page.

4 From the Publisher:

Joy in our land for everyone

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 705-345-3878

Regardless of what holiday you celebrate in December, or don’t, in this part of the world this month is the time we see the earth’s remarkable process of going to rest to ultimately bring the renewal of our land.

It’s the time of year I love looking at the massive Burr Oak in the little park at the end of my driveway, leaves long gone. I look at it knowing that her roots are well protected by the earth and her trunk and limbs are well-insulated by bark. Somehow, on the coldest day of winter, this tree makes me feel warm.

I know that during this December, whether it’s Christmas, or Chanukah, or Kwanza or Solstice, every one of us could look at this tree and feel exactly the same way.

It’s the same with the sunrise. No matter your faith, you will find colder weather sunrises nothing short of miraculous.

The morning I wrote this column, the lake was frozen about 200’ out. The rest of the lake was black with low, rolling waves. There was a straight line of heavy gray cloud above the horizon. Above that was clear sky. As the sun rose above the clouds, horizontal lines the colour of shiny gold and brilliant red burst forward and blinded me for a moment. It lasted only a few moments but stayed with me all day.

So many things make us feel good in December and throughout the rest of winter.

In the winter, most of us feel pretty good when we see children with rosy cheeks. As they play outside in the cold, the squeaky sound the snow makes beneath their boots reminds us of when we were young and made all those squeaky sounds with our own boots.

The good things is, regardless of what holiday each of celebrates, we can all appreciate what surrounds us. Every one of us, if we choose, can feel warmth from the trees and the awe from the sunrise. We can all smile at children with rosy cheeks and love the sound of snow beneath their boots.

These are, I believe, all things that equalize us. These are things that make all of us feel happy at this time of year. No one person owns these things. We don’t need to be of one faith or another to feel the joy they bring. We don’t need money or fame or power to get any of them.

We are all the same. I think I’ll celebrate this all year long.

Canadians are better than this Canadians have political opinions. It’s a good thing. Debating politics is interesting.

But has anyone else noticed that down and dirty, insulting and just plain nasty postings on social media has become a sport, especially postings about politicians.

Recently, I was reading a Facebook post about Premier Wynne and the new hourly wage increase. I read the information first and went on to the comments. I wish I hadn’t.

Although many comments were interesting and thoughtful, too many said nothing about the policy. Instead they chose to use this social media space to be hateful, to name-call and make terrible personal comments.

A few months ago, a post appeared about Rachel Notley, the Alberta premier. It wasn’t a news item. It was a fairly disgusting meme. “Lock her up” was an often repeated phrase in the comments. What?? Repeating mindless words from the Trump campaign has become the Canadian way of opposing politicians, or policies, or political parties?

Canadians should be better than this.

A notice to our readers, advertisers and contributors The Villager does not publish an issue in January. We’ll be back in February. Delivery will be February 1 & 2. Deadline for community event listings, new advertising bookings and editorial contributions is January 15th, 2018.

On behalf of everyone who works with The Villager, I wish you and your family all the very best over the holiday season. Good health and happiness in 2018.

Many thanks for reading our publication and for patronizing our advertisers.

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

Letters may be edited.

5

LINE DANCING from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. The last class is on December 8 but will resume in the spring.

SANTA CLAUS PARADE December 9 at 6:00 p.m. on Muskoka Street in Washago. Free hot chocolate and cookies at the Washago Community Centre following the parade.

MAPLE LEAF ART AUCTION was held on November 12. It was a very successful auction, raising funds for the community centre and future art initiatives. Many thanks to the members of the Washago Art Club for painting the maple leaves which adorned the streets of Washago for the summer season and thank-you to all art club members who donated your artwork for the auction.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for the ice rink during the winter - clearing snow, flooding the ice, etc. In the November Villager we asked for volunteers to assist and, unfortunately, have not received any calls.

The ice rink could potentially close this winter if there are no volunteers to keep it open. If you wish to participate, we urge you to call the Centre to avoid disappointment for the many youth in our community who use the rink.

COMMUNITY CENTRE MEMBERSHIPS Please support your community centre by purchasing an annual membership for $15.

WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION January 10 and 11 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. See the complete list of programs available in this issue of The Villager, pages 16 & 17.

FOR ALL YOUR RENTAL NEEDS, CONTACT ROSE 705-689-6424

Santa Claus is coming to Washago!

Saturday, December 9th, 6:00 p.m.

By Ellen Cohen The first Christmas parade in Washago was in 2011. The Washago Community Centre’s hall manager, Rose Petit worked with the first parade chair, local business owner and volunteer, Mary Harth.

Their work, along with a small group of community volunteers, resulted in a very successful inaugural parade which has now become a tradition in the village.

Jill Gordon, this year’s parade committee chair agrees with local residents that every year since 2011 has been a huge hit. It’s clear to her and her committee members that nobody has more fun bringing in the holiday season than Washago and area residents. This is certainly evident to those who attend, those who squeeze into the crowd along Muskoka Street so that they can see every float, marcher and, of course, Santa himself.

The volunteer committee works for many weeks ahead of the parade and, it appears, the parade will not disappoint.

The parade features approximately 30 floats, all built by local businesses and private individuals. Beginning at St. Francis of Assisi Church, the parade will move through the dark, lighting up the street, the sky and children’s faces.

The glowing floats will move along the main street of Washago, Muskoka Street and give everyone a chance to enjoy the Christmas glitter.

In addition to the floats, often dozens of walking participants add to the jovial atmosphere, some tossing candy to the kids. Depending on the weather, there may be a variety of other forms of

© Can Stock Photo / pressmaster

Washago Community Centre

Santa on his magic sleigh is always one of the highlights of the Washago Christmas parade. Tell your kids and grandkids he’ll be in the village on December 9th. The parade starts at 6 p.m. transportation such as bikes, horses, ATV’s, fire engines, old cars and more.

The committee works closely with the Washago Community Centre to put together more than a parade. It’s a large and exciting community event that includes Santa on stage after the parade.

He’ll be at the Washago Community Centre and, as usual, kids will line up to talk to him about what’s on their wish list.

Everyone who attends will be offered free hot chocolate and treats.

Tell your kids and grandkids Santa will be in Washago on December 9th. The parade starts at 6 p.m.

Because the village is small and the audience is large, the parade committee members encourage those attending to be in the village well ahead of the 6:00 p.m. start time.

Anyone interested in entering a float or a walking group, please register in advance of parade day. Call 705-834-8114 or 705689-3594.

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7

The Doves of Christmas

By Ron Reid first few days, nestlings are fed a substance something like cottage cheese that is regurgitated by the parents. By four days old, the young birds progress to eating seeds, which forms their diet for the rest of their lives.

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705-329-3939

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Simcoe County’s Bird Experts Suppliers of © Can Stock Photo / stevebyland

As you sort through your Christmas cards, it would be no surprise to find one or two featuring a dove in its artwork. No other birds have such a long history of being used as symbols of peace and divinity, and that symbolism remains to this day.

In ancient times, well before the time of Christ, doves were thought to represent the goddess of fertility, and were often used as icons on temples and even on coins.

The ancient peoples of the Mediterranean provided rows of dovecoats – niches cut into walls or caves, often on shrines – to encourage nesting of the birds. Doves also served as a source of meat, and their droppings were used as fertilizer, so their uses were not only religious, but practical as well.

The Bible has frequent references to doves, often as symbols of the divine. In the story of Noah’s ark, doves were sent out as the floods receded, and one returning with an olive leaf in its beak was a sign that dry land was returning. The fluttering of doves was used as a metaphor for the spirit of God descending from Heaven during the baptism of Jesus.

One of the interesting aspects of this historic symbology is that doves are almost always seen as feminine. What a contrast to another long-used bird symbol, the eagle, which is unquestionably male in its character, always strong and aggressive.

Doves in various forms occur worldwide, but in this area the only species is the Mourning Dove, which often stays yearround if food is available. While these birds are generally a soft greyish colour, with white tips on the tail visible when they fly, they do develop an attractive palette of pastel colours around their necks during breeding season. Their name is linked to their call – a low cooOOO-woo-woo string of phrases which does sound quite mournful.

Sometimes in the late evening, people might even confuse this call for an owl.

Perhaps fittingly, Mourning Doves mate for life, and you almost always see them in pairs. Their nest is a flat flimsy structure make of small twigs, usually in a conifer tree, on which they lay two eggs. For the

Mourning Doves are often used as a symbol of peace.

Strangely, a few years ago the federal government changed hunting regulations to allow the shooting of up to 15 Mourning Doves a day during the fall season.

Dove hunters claim that the doves top flying speed of 90 km/hr. makes them a challenging target, and that they are excellent grilled, broiled or roasted. I guess that is after you have picked all the lead pellets out of their tiny breasts.

But this Christmas season, the doves at our house can strut safely around our lawn and snack on their favourite safflower seeds as they wish. As a symbol of peace, it seems only fair that peace be upon the doves as well.

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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8

Important new benefits for adult and child caregivers and expectant parents

By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton The federal government has provided details of a number of measures they announced in the 2017 Budget relating to Employment Insurance (EI), including the new option for new parents to take 18 months of parental leave, rather than the current 12.

The changes will come into effect on December 3, 2017, and include:

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• Caregivers who provide care to a critically ill or injured adult family member will have access to a new Family Caregiver benefit for adults of up to 15 weeks. This will help more Canadians provide care or support to an adult family member 18 years of age or older who is critically ill (i.e. whose life is at risk as a result of illness or injury and has experienced a significant change in their baseline state of health).

• Immediate and extended family members of children who are critically ill will, for the first time, have access to a new Family Caregiver benefit for children that was previously available only to parents. It will replace the Parents of Critically Ill Children benefit and continue to provide up to 35 weeks of benefits. Claimants can share these Family Caregiver benefits either concurrently or separately, and receive their benefits when most needed within a 52-week period.

• Both medical doctors and nurse practitioners will now be able to sign medical certificates for the existing and new family caregiving benefits, which will simplify the process.

• Parents will be able to choose the option that best meets their family’s needs: standard parental benefits (taken over 12 months at a rate of 55% of average weekly earnings) or extended parental benefits (taken over 18 months at a rate of 33% of average weekly earnings).

• Eligible pregnant workers will be able to receive EI maternity benefits earlier, up to 12 weeks (from the current 8 weeks) before their due date. This increased flexibility will allow pregnant workers to consider their personal, health, and workplace circumstances when choosing when to begin their maternity leave.

If you’d like more information on these changes, I’ve posted this article and a link to the backgrounder produced by Employment and Social Development Canada on my website, www.brucestantonmp.ca.

9

Can Christmas be about radical change?

By Mark Bisset

This is the time of year when family and friends gather to share new experiences and relive old ones. © Can Stock Photo / AlphaBaby

Generosity.

Peace and goodwill.

Love.

These are the themes you will hear again and again over the Christmas season.

Constant repetition in a commercial context can make them sound hollow. The barrage of consumption that now starts before Remembrance Day and ramps up into a frenzy by December 24 can be dispiriting.

From an environmental viewpoint, Christmas consumption is emblematic of the huge challenge of shifting cultural norms.

To borrow an image from Tom Harpur, Christmas is like an impossibly beautiful brook which, over many generations, has had so much built up around it and piled on top of it that the brook is no longer visible. You can still faintly hear the sound of moving water, but you have to listen closely.

How do we shift gears when we have so many great memories associated with the fun of giving and receiving, of eating to excess and then laughing together at our extended bellies and turkey brains?

This is sewn deeply into my own Christmas experience and it is one of my favourite times of the year.

Thinking about changing any of it leaves me cold. It’s a bore to discuss. It feels like you’re dumping on something cherished and beautiful.

But in another sense I feel the excesses of the season are obscuring its beauty.

Increasingly I notice that I feel all these things at once: joy at being with my family; excitement about gifts and great food; and a sense that something pretty big is out of whack.

What’s a person to do?

We didn’t get to this point overnight, and it’s foolish to expect we can shift a culture in a new direction quickly. The bad news is that it will likely take generations. But when faced with an enormous task, the best approach is to start.

As the employee of a charitable land trust, one of the things I am struck by is the generosity of people at this time of the year.

The Couchiching Conservancy is entirely powered by the people who support it. And in November and December, charitable giving ramps up. Sure, there are technical reasons for that. People may be making last-minute contributions to capitalize on tax breaks. But in my experience that is a small part of the story. These gifts are really the result of goodwill and generosity, expressed in a way that will advance the machinery of our better nature. In the case of Conservancy donors, I think they are responding to the simple benevolence of an organization which exists to preserve some of the natural glory of this region. Though not everyone can see it, everyone benefits from this peaceful model that delivers small dollops of respect to a ravaged landscape.

Gifts to other charities echo this dynamic in varying ways, but always at the core of a donation is the hope for a better way, for common good that extends well beyond our individual reach.

This is the sound of that ancient stream, which can still be heard when you put your ear to the ground. It is the sound of hope.

Mark Bisset is the executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy, a non-profit, charitable land trust that protects important natural spaces and holds them in trust for future generations. For more information, please go to www.couchichingconserv.ca or call 705-326-1620.

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10

Keep up-to-date on township news 24/7

Holiday gifts that support your community While nothing has been set in stone at the time of writing, our club is considering making some changes to our meeting schedule including location, time and frequency of our meetings. The goal is to be more accommodating to current members providing a wider range of schedules, and to be more inviting to potential members who have expressed interest in joining but can’t make the current meeting time.

These adjustments will be voted on at our annual Club Assembly on December 7th.

Any changes made will be posted on our Facebook page as well as website.

We have two fundraisers in December, both of which will help you complete your Christmas gift list. First, in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Barrie, we’ll be selling Cash Calendars throughout the month.

There will be one winner per day in 2018 with six top prizes of $1000 each. Our second fundraiser is our Holiday Hams.

The cost is $25 each, packaged in a Rotary branded box. Each of these make great gifts as they are both useful and let the recipient know that they are part of making the world a better place through Rotary.

As we’ve mentioned in previous columns, each week our club hosts a local speaker from the community. Sometimes it’s a business professional who is sharing valuable information about their industry.

Most recently, Tracey Donald from Junction Rehabilitation in Washago came to our club to explain how massage therapy in conjunction with your regular health regimen can help to reduce pain, stress, headaches, stiffness and a whole range of other ailments - all without the side effects of drugs.

If you are involved in a local business, a local organization, or you have community updates, you can share with Rotary. Please send us an email at info@washagorotary.ca.

TOWNSHIP WEBSITE: The Township of Severn regularly posts updates on its website, notifying residents of everything from meeting notices and agendas, to new recreation opportunities, professional development workshops through the Community Development Corporation, new community projects such as high speed surveys, local climate change committee opportunities, and more. The website also lists all management and staff and councillor contact information.

VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER: One of the website notices of interest is a posting to apply for a job as a Volunteer Firefighter.

Many may not know that volunteer firefighters are paid for time spent attending emergencies.

Even if the position has been filled by the time this notice is delivered in The Villager, there will always be a future opportunity for this rewarding job.

Information is on the home page of the township website. www.townshipofsevern.com

Sit back. Relax. Immerse yourself in this new book by local author.

BREACH, by Janet Stead A Romantic Suspense Fiction

Mike and Jamie first met 20 years ago in the heart of a supercomputer they’re both hacking into. They didn’t know each other’s real names or ages but over the over the ensuing months of dark web excursions, they fall in love. However, they never meet in person and eventually go offline forever.

Fast forward to today, Jamie is a computer expert hired by the FBI to plant a Trojan horse into the computer system of a human smuggling ring. Mike is the FBI agent overseeing the case. Neither of them know they are the same people who met online so many years ago.

Mike is the first to figure out who Jamie is – but by the time he does, it might be too late.

Janet Stead is a McMaster graduate in languages and philosophy. She owns and operates her own corporate software training company. After years of holding her imagination in check, she started writing her first novel, Breach, in Washago in 2016. She now does her writing on an island in Georgian Bay, Ontario where she lives with Dan.

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11

It’s all about Keeping traditions the kids

By Estelle Ness, Lioness President Remembrance Day has come and gone, but never to be forgotten. Have you realized this is one of the few special days we have left that the government has not deemed to change?

We now look forward to Christmas and helping those less fortunate. Our Lioness do not ask who is receiving our help or why. We do it because we care and it makes us feel good to know we are helping.

My thought: Realizing Canada is now 150 years old, I can’t get my mind around why we have to be politically correct and say Seasons Greetings. This is Canada and if it was good enough to say Merry Christmas, in many languages, 150 years ago I think we should bring it back.

From the Washago Lioness to you, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous New Year.

The owners and the staff at Blaines Auto Service believe that Christmas is all about children, but they’re acutely aware that there are too many kids who won’t have a very merry day on December 25th.

To help make this time of year a little bit happier for as many boys and girls as possible, they’ve organized a toy drive and are asking their customers, neighbours and friends to drop off an unwrapped toy by December 8th.

The toys will be delivered to the local Salvation Army where they’ll eventually be distributed to children whose families are in need of a little help.

You can drop off unwrapped toys at 10950 Highway 11 in Severn Bridge. 705-6892291.

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12

Busy November and festive December

By Marylynne White Coffee, tea and birthday cake rounded out this meeting.

December has long been one of the favourite months in our Club. This year will prove this once again. The first meeting will be our Christmas Luncheon at Fern Resort. The resort’s turkey meal is always delicious and very well presented. We will have multiple Christmas prizes and most members will go home with a delightful gift. We also will have a special presentation.

This year, we will be entertained by award winning artist, Deb Misner Jones. She is a singer, yodeler, alpine bell ringer. Her performance includes lots of audience participation. We usually end the afternoon with carol singing.

At our December birthday meeting we will be entertained by the Harmony Sounds.

Their holiday selections are always beautiful.

The Harmony Sounds is a community group of singers and ukulele players. Many in the group are our club seniors, while others are not and are residents of Washago, Orillia and

November was a busy month for the Seniors Club.

At our first meeting of the month, we recognized Remembrance Day. Club members who are veterans related a few memories of their time of service. This was followed by other members who shared their memories relating to growing up during the war years. We also watched a YouTube presentation. To all veterans, we are grateful for your service and for our freedoms.

Our next meeting in November featured two speakers from Mariposa Grandmothers to Grandmothers who gave us a most informative presentation. This group, along with many others are backed by the Stephen Lewis Foundation. The Grandmothers group does fundraising in order to provide funds for the “Grandmothers of Africa.”

Many African grandmothers have to care for their grandchildren because the parents are sick or have died because of HIV Aids and other diseases.

the surrounding area. The group welcomes anyone who loves to sing or play the uke!

We’ll end this meeting with birthday cake, celebrating our members’ December birthdays.

The meetings in the New Year will continue to be filled with fun events, interest speakers and much, much more!

Merry Christmas to all and many blessings for 2018.

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Do you have a Community Event in February?

Please submit the information

by January 15th.

thevillagerpress@rogers.com

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before

& after Leah C. Cavanaugh

PROFESSIONAL CUSTOM CABINET REFINISHING

Sales Representative

705-325-1366 1-800-498-8775

B.J. Roth Realty Ltd., Brokerage* *Independently Owned and Operated

www.LeahCCavanaugh.ca

705.970.7090 T y l e r ROBICHAUD

Orillia, ON

& SURROUNDING AREAS

westshorecabinetrydesign@gmail.com

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Township programs will keep you busy - and fit In spite of winter setting in, Severn Township Culture and Recreation remains very busy keeping you busy with our varied selection of programs we manage on behalf of Severn residents.

Highland Dancing will be available at Marchmont Public School on Tuesday nights. The township offers many types of yoga programs - for all ages. The “want to be” dancers will have an opportunity to join “In the Mix Dance Program” using iPads and their imaginations! “In the Mix Kid’s Yoga” intertwines the foundation of yoga, with stories, music and props.

Severn offers many types of yoga and other movement classes for all ages including Easy Tai Chi – Yang Style, Beginner and Intermediate Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Yoga Plus, and more.

At the Coldwater and District Community Centre, hockey, figure skating, and public skating sessions are in full

swing. Coldwater Minor Hockey has a busy season planned. They will host many tournaments this year and the Coldwater Ice Wolves are already having a great season in the premier season with the Canadian Premier Junior Hockey League.

Mark your calendars for the 1st Annual Washago Carving Event in Washago Centennial Park on March 16th, 17th and 18th, 2018. This will be great family fun with displays and sales of fabulous art, events and vendors. Don’t miss this inaugural event at the beautiful lakeside park in Washago.

The complete list of programs and facilities rentals are available on the township’s website 24/7.

Visit www.townshipofsevern. com.

If you have any program ideas you would like us to try, please contact the township office at 705-325-2315, extension 253.

All ideas are good ones!

Plan to attend the local conservancy AGM The Couchiching Conservancy will hold their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at ODAS Park in Orillia.

If you’ve been interested in learning more about the local conservancy but haven’t yet attended an event, donated or volunteered for them, this could be an excellent opportunity for you to meet some supporters, staff or board members. You’ll certainly have the opportunity to learn more about the conservancy, what they accomplished in 2017 and what they plan for the New Year.

It could also be the chance, the impetus you need, to take some action and get involved.

For more information, contact thecouchichingconserv.ca or call 705-326-1620.

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“This is my opportunity to give back to the community. That’s important to me,” Leah Cavanaugh said.

Leah is referring to her Free Skate event. This the 8th year in a row that she’s rented ice time at Rotary Place and invited the community to come and enjoy themselves. Over the years, hundreds of local children and their parents have attended.

This year, the event takes place on Sunday, December 17th from 2-3:30 p.m.

A native of Orillia, and a Century 21 sales representative in that same city for many years, she has had the good fortune to meet and work with many hundreds of people in the area. Through those contacts, she has also had the opportunity to participate in community events and fundraisers and she understands very well how important it is to spend some of her time and money to give back to a community that has supported her.

“My Free Skate event also lets me say to parents: take a little time out at this busy time of year. Bring your kids to Rotary Place for some family fun!” said Leah.

Because there is a great need in this community, the toy drive portion of this event is a very important component. Over the years, Leah’s event has been responsible for the collection of a mountain of toys. She’d like that to keep growing and asks people to be as generous as possible with their donations of new, unwrapped toys. Bring toys to the Free Skate event and the Salvation Army will distribute them to needy families.

No reservation is required. Just show up with your skates and a toy donation if you can.

All skaters will receive a free hot chocolate, also courtesy of Leah.

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Reflecting on 2017

By Patrick Brown, Simcoe North MPP and Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario Every year around the holidays, I find myself looking back and reflecting on

the year that was.

I can’t begin to explain how much of an honour and a privilege it has been to serve as the MPP for Simcoe North and your representative for the past couple of years.

My good friend, Garfield Dunlop left behind some big shoes to fill, and I have done my best to carry on his legacy of dedication and service to our community.

I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished: successfully fighting for a moratorium on rural school closures; standing up for health care services at our local hospitals; and working for better mental health services for our first responders. When I look back on this I can’t help but remember that it would not have been possible without all of your assistance and feedback.

But it’s also a reminder of all the work left to do.

We need to continue fighting for

affordable hydro rates, better health care couple of family dinners!

I hope that all of you get the opportunity and education services, good-paying jobs, and a more accountable and transparent to spend time with those you care about government. This is what drives me day-in and to unwind after a busy year.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! and day-out.

If my staff or I can be of any assistance, One of the most rewarding parts of my job are the opportunities I get to spend or if you have any feedback on what the time in our community, at events, where I government could be doing to make life easier for you and your family, please don’t can listen to all of you first-hand.

I look forward to hitting the ground hesitate to reach out – I would be happy to running in the New Year, and continuing to answer your questions! stand up for the residents of Simcoe County at Queen’s Park, because you deserve to pay less and get ahead.

The Christmas and holiday season is an opportunity to spend SMALL ENGINE REPAIR time with your friends, We specialize in ALL SMALL MOTORS: family, and loved ones.

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Washago Community Centre

Winter 2018 Programs 705-689-6424 • www.washagocommunitycentre.com Register at the Washago Community Centre on

Wednesday, Jan 10 5:00-7:00pm and Thursday Jan 11 5:00-7:00pm • Registration forms are available for download from the WCC website.

• Minimum numbers are required to run all programs. A decision to cancel will be made on completion of the last registration date. A full refund will be provided if a program is cancelled.

• Membership to the Washago Community Centre is an annual fee of $15.00

MONDAYS Yoga

Start Date: Jan 22 for 10 weeks • Time: 4:15 - 5:15pm (Gentle) and 5:30 - 6:30pm Yoga incorporates breathing and meditation techniques as well as physical postures. It is an excellent way to bring awareness to your body while focusing on strength, flexibility and balance. You are welcome to participate at your own pace..

Cost: $85.00 members $95 non members $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Anita McDonald

BLT Stretch & Tone Class

Start Date: Jan 22 for 10 weeks • Time: 6:45 – 7:45pm Tone and muscle conditioning workout utilizing hand weights & stretch bands to great music. Work out at your own pace.

Please bring your hand weights.

Cost: $75.00 members • $85.00 non-members • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Suzanne Ball

TUESDAYS Gymnastics

Start Date: Jan 23 for 8 weeks • Time: Tiny Tumblers (ages 3 to 6) 4:45 - 5:45pm • Gym Giants (ages 7+) 5:45 - 6:45pm Participate in gymnastic fundamentals in a fun environment. Learn movement patterns and develop skills and focus on fitness.

Classes encourage fun, fitness and learning.

Cost: $60.00 • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Judi Page

Body Fitness Balance Ball

Start Date: Jan 23 for 10 weeks • Time: 7:00 - 8:00pm Looking for a great overall body muscle toning workout? Join us for a powerful low impact workout which improves core stability, posture and muscle balance. Also great for flexibility and your cardiovascular system! Bring a balance ball and hand weights.

Cost: $75.00 members • $85.00 non-members • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Suzanne Ball

Hockey

Start Date: Jan 23 for 8 weeks • Time: 6:00 - 7:00pm Co-ed Hockey. Enjoy an hour of fun and healthy exercise – no contact or slap shots allowed. Please bring helmet, face guard and a stick.

Cost: $40.00 • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: John Beck

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WEDNESDAYS Computer Classes - will resume for the spring session Karate

Start Date: Jan 24 for 8 weeks • Time: Defending Dragons (ages 4 to 12) 4:45 - 5:30pm • Advanced (ages 4 to 12) 5:30 - 6:15pm Karate increases agility, flexibility and self-confidence. Defending Dragons (beginner class) introduces children to the basics of karate encouraging the development of motor skills and physical agility. Advanced class, for those who have completed the beginner karate class, is to learn the art of karate as it was intended as self defense.

Cost: $47.50 each • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Tawnya Gauthier-Romaniuk

Body Fitness Plus

Start Date: Jan 24 for 10 weeks • Time: 6:30 – 7:30pm This is an excellent cardio fat burning workout including muscle conditioning and strengthening. This workout is designed for all ages and yopu work at your own pace to great music. Included is a warm up, cool down, aerobic activity, muscle conditioning and mat exercises. Please bring your own hand weights.

Cost: $75.00 members • $85 non-members • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Suzanne Ball

THURSDAYS Acrylic Landscape Painting

Start Date: Jan 25 for 10 weeks • Time: 9:00 – 10:45am Acrylic Landscape Painting with local artist Doug Cooper. A great opportunity to learn to paint from a gifted artist. – no previous experience is necessary as Doug will accommodate all artistic skill levels. Additional cost may/will be incurred to purchase paint/supplies if required.

Cost: $85.00 members • $95 non-members • $10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Doug Cooper

Zumba

Start Date: Jan 25 for 10 weeks • Time: 7:30 – 8:30pm Zumba fitness is a very exciting dance party atmosphere full of Latin and international music – no previous dance experience required! Workout is taught with instruction on how to do the moves and the “watch and follow”. It’s fun and effective, using interval training combining fast and slow rhythms for an effective aerobic workout while at the same time, targeting your legs, abs, glutes and arms.

Cost: $85.00 members • $95 non-members •$10 discount for payment by Jan 11 Instructor: Beth Bussoti-Schell

FRIDAYS Line Dancing - will resume for the spring session Childrens’ Mini Library Bring your small children to the Centre and take advantage of the books, in the lobby, that are available for small children.

Take a book and/or leave a book.

Ontario Early Years Centre (OEYC) A free Outreach Program for children ages 0 to 6 years, Tues from 10 - 11:30am. For more information and to register call 705-325-1299.

NEW PROGRAM IDEAS? - Please contact Rose at the WCC 705-689-6424

a good selection of specialty items such cheese, sauces and dips.

Canoe Fresh Food Market is located at CANOE FRESH FOOD MARKET & BAKERY 3384 Muskoka St. in Washago. For hours and Rod and Mary Harth opened this business more, visit www.canoefreshfoods.ca. 705on Muskoka Street 5+ years ago, hopeful 514-5000. that this store would change the face of the community of Washago. They believed DAPPER DEPOT Located in the heart of historic downtown that a store with a full line of competitively priced groceries and fresh, in-store baked Orillia, this fine men’s shop carries goods would draw new people into the everything that the man on your Christmas list would love to include in his wardrobe. village.

From belts and ties to suits. Sweaters and Their strategy worked.

Hundreds of customers shop at Canoe shirts. Outerwear and underwear. Casual every day. They are from nearby homes and and formal wear.

Their motto is “If you’re not dapper, you’re cottages, people who can now complete all of their shopping without going to a bigger not dressed.”

Of course, it’s not just about what town. Customers also include many who stop by on their way to Muskoka cottages. Dapper Depot carries in their store. You In addition to groceries and baked goods, will experience the best personal and including store-made bread and rolls, professional service that brings customers pies, meat pies, and deserts, Canoe always back over and over again.

See for yourself at 39 Mississaga St. E. Call has fresh meats and vegetables, Muskoka Roastery coffee by the bag or a freshly them at 705-326-9900. Or visit their website pressed cup, a deli counter with takeout at www.dapperdepotmenswear.com.

Gift certificates are available. salads, pizza and rotisserie chicken, and

GRAVENHURST OPERA HOUSE

Truly one of the grand theatres in the province, the Gravenhurst Opera House boasts a wooden arched ceiling, spectacular chandeliers and the original tapestry covered seats on black iron frames bolted to the wood floor. Sitting in this theatre, you will be taken back in time to 1901 when the building was built.

This wonderful facility is considered to be the birthplace of Ontario summer theatre and the starting point for extraordinary artists, including the great Donald Sutherland who made his acting debut starring in the Rainmaker in the 1950’s.

Other notable performers who have graced the Opera House stage include Gordon Lightfoot, Michael Burgess and Graham Greene Manager of arts and culture for the Town of Gravenhurst, Krista Storey makes sure that this beautiful theatre is well-used. In fact, there were over 100 performances on the grand stage in 2016.

3381 Muskoka St., Washago

STORE: 705-279-3668 JACK: 705-706-9261 OPEN TUES. – FRI., 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

FULL SELECTION OF QUALITY SHOES, BOOTS & SLIPPERS

Women’s Boot

• Completely Waterproof • Good to -10oC • Removable insole • Sizes up to 10

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Men’s Boot

• Good to -30oC • Removable insole • Twin zippers • Sizes up to 16, 4 widths

• Gift Baskets • Stocking Stuffers • Specialty Cheeses, Sauces & Dips • Muskoka Roastery Coffee & Canoe Mugs • Fudge, Cookies, Honey, Maple Syrup and more!

For those who have never experienced a performance at the Gravenhurst Opera House, Krista reminds you that it is located only 18 minutes from Orillia, and 10 minutes from Washago.

Tickets are now available for the AllCanadian New Year’s Eve, a dinner and show (see ad on page 31 of this issue).

For show information call 705-6875550, toll free 1-888-495-8888 or visit www.gravenhurstoperahouse.com.

projects such as paint and paint supplies, lighting and heating fixtures and supplies, plumbing needs, stove piping and pellets, and much more are readily available. They also carry products that will help keep you safe in the winter including snow blowers, sidewalk snow and ice melt, and a good selection of snow shovels and brushes.

The Home Hardware in Washago also has a good selection of Christmas lighting – and a room off to the side that contains dozens and dozens of gift ideas.

HOME HARDWARE, WASHAGO Customer is king, or queen, has never Locals and summer residents alike know been truer than at Washago’s Home that a trip to Home Hardware will result in Hardware. 3375 Muskoka St., Washago. walking out with exactly what they needed. 705-689-2611.

Whether it’s a large item such as a lawn tractor, or an extra can of paint, or even two JAX BOOTERY Owned and operated by Jack Calvert, teeny tiny screws you need to complete a home project, Home Hardware staff will a local octogenarian, this tiny shop has a surprising amount of stock. And, although make sure you find what you want.

At this time of year, Rich Harmer and you’ll find a great variety of excellent quality his staff are very busy helping customers footwear, the inventory is not the highlight ready their homes for the holidays and of this retail business – Jack is.

He has been in the business for over 65 the houseguests that come along with it.

Supplies needed for home-based décor years. His long career in the shoe business

started after the war when he got a job in an Edmonton Woodwards Department store.

He took some courses and learned the shoe business. Jack flourished in this business in a variety of roles, eventually even running his own warehouse in the United States and, for many years, owned a successful shoe store in downtown Orillia.

For some time, one of his specialties has been vintage shoes, many of which have been sold over the internet.

Today, his store in Washago carries men’s and women’s shoes, slippers and boots. Jack is very fussy about what brands he carries, making sure that the shoes he sells have the quality and style to last a long time. He carries a complete inventory of orthotics and is also an expert at fitting. When he has time, he also works on his other job – shoe repairs.

These days, Jack has reduced the number of days he works. The store is open TuesdayFriday only, from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Jax Bootery is located at 3381 Muskoka St., Washago. 705-279-3668 or 705-706-9261.

FRESH CHRISTMAS TREES Choose from balsam or Fraser fir.

Ask our sales associates to help you choose the perfect gift for the handyperson on your list.

Like us on

HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 7:30am – 5pm; Sat. 8am-4pm

8253 County Rd. 169, Washago

P: 705-689-2626 • F: 705-689-8671 • 1-888-260-6324 • www.timbermart.ca

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LAKE COUNTRY GRILL

Described as a happening place, Lake Country Grill has great food, live entertainment, and special events including girls’ night out and painting parties. There is always something going on.

This local restaurant is the perfect place for lunch or dinner and it’s fun to go there.

Just read their menu and see items such as Fall off the Dock Roast Beef Melt, Dip in the Bay BLT or Fish Out of Water.

Experts in planning and hosting events, Lake Country Grill can help you with a Christmas, birthday or retirement party.

The restaurant is now taking reservations for their New Year’s Eve party. Customers will be presented with a special menu, party favours, Champagne, and entertainment by Even Steven.

Located at 425 West St. N., in the Fittons Plaza, call 705-329-0303. Review their menu at www.lakecountrygrill.com.

A gift certificate from Lake Country Grill would make an excellent stocking stuffer.

RICHARD’S GOLDSMITHING / RICHARD’S JEWELRY DESIGNS

THE BIRD HOUSE NATURE COMPANY

Richard Fallow has a love of technology and all things beautiful – the perfect combination for a jeweler.

He has over 30 years of experience in goldsmithing, custom designing jewelry, and he loves to create family heirlooms.

In addition to creating beautiful jewelry, Richard’s Goldsmithing customers can ask for appraisals, have their old jewelry repaired and cleaned, and all jewelry can be repaired, restored or redesigned.

Richard’s is the perfect place to find a distinct one-of-a-kind piece for that special person on your Christmas gift list.

Richard’s Goldsmithing is located at 51 Colborne St. East in downtown Orillia. Call Richard at 705-327-1616 and review his jewelry on his website www.richardsjewelrydesigns.com.

This one-stop nature shop is filled with top-quality bird feeders, wild bird seed, bird feeding equipment, bird and nature field guides, and a unique line of nature-related gifts and garden décor.

A tour of The Bird House ‘The Other Side’ before Christmas is a must. This is where you’ll find a beautifully laid out part of the store filled with gifts and garden décor.

Garden décor, one-of-a-kind nature-related wall art, small and large artisan-created items. There is certain to be the perfect gift for the nature and garden lover on your list. The Bird House store is owned and operated by local conservationists Janet Grand and Ron Reid. The distinctive line of nature-related gifts and crafts and their bird feeding supplies and equipment, are chosen carefully with the preservation of nature in mind.

Janet and her staff will help you find the right gift and they always have just the right advice for bird lovers. Gift certificates are

Look in Your Mailbox for Our Weekly Flyer

GREAT HOLIDAY GIFTS

Come in to see our

Christmas Display!

Simcoe County’s Bird Experts

Suppliers of BIRD SEED • FEEDERS HOUSES • BOOKS & MORE

108 Mississaga St. E. Orillia • 705-329-3939 Always Free Advice!

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www.birdhousenature.com

at competitive prices every day in every department!

Excellent Selection of trees, decorations, indoor & outdoor lighting

705-689-2611

3375 Muskoka Street, Washago

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK FOR YOUR SHOPPING CONVENIENCE

available for everything but advice about bird feeding. That advice is free!

Visit 108 Mississaga St. E. or go on their website at www.orilliabirdhouse.com. 705-329-3939.

TIMBER MART – WASHAGO

When you’re thinking of making a life-long commitment, you will need a ring to last a lifetime.

And wouldn’t it be extra special to know it’s the only one of its kind?

The owners of Timber Mart in Washago have been using a very successful customer service formula for years. Although all staff is readily available to help all customers, each of them also has a speciality.

Walking into the front of the store, customers will find experts in, for example all things paint – what type of paint or stain is best, what colours are available, quantity required, and of course mixing to specification. They can also answer questions about the kitchen and bathroom displays, lighting, and just about everything else you’ll find in this well-stocked store.

At the back of the store, customers will find other specialists. They understand the fine points about the type of lumber Timber Mart carries, what kinds of stone is available and what is best for specific installations. They are experts in dealing with both the retail customer and contractors and understand everything about what is stored in Timber Mart’s vast storage buildings. There’s even a specialist in stoves, pellets and other heating supplies.

Timber Mart Washago is THE place to go for a tree. Timber Mart in Washago is one of the largest retailers of Christmas trees in the area.

8253 County Rd. 169, just on the edge of Washago village.

705-689-2626.

Custom Designed Jewelry Over 40 Years Experience

51 Colborne St. E. Downtown Orillia 705-327-1616 www.richardsjewelrydesigns.com

Dapper Depot Menswear 39 Mississaga St. E., Orillia • 705 326-9900 dapperdepotmenswear.com

Great Holiday Gift Ideas High Quality Men’s Sleepwear, Gloves, Caps IF YOU’RE NOT DAPPER, YOU’RE NOT DRESSED!

Formal | Weddings | Casual | Business | Big and Tall | Accessories 21

WHITE LIONS TEA HOUSE

Experience the charms of tea at Orillia’s comfortable and charming tea house.

If you’re looking for an hour or two of peace and quiet, the White Lions Tea House is the place to go. The hardest part of your visit will be to choose from a long menu of the best selection of premium loose leaf tea. But you can count on your server to help you choose. White Lions understands tea and what each selection tastes like.

Tea is served in warmed tea pot to be enjoyed in a beautiful china cup, one of the hundreds of pieces of fine china displayed throughout the tea house.

Compliment your hot and delicious tea with homemade scones, pastries, finger sandwiches and you’ll leave White Lions very happy.

This establishment is the perfect place to host a bridal party, shower, anniversary or special birthday. White Lions staff will help design a menu that is perfect for your occasion.

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Call us today to book your special holiday luncheon or staff party.

White Lions Tea House is located at 33 Westmount Drive North, Orillia. 705-2590568. www.whitelionsteahouse.ca.

Gift certificates for the tea lover in your family are available now.

WIND SPIRIT WISDOM and WONDERS

At this meaningful time of the year, Wind Spirit has gift ideas to put the wonder of the season into the lives of those you care for.

They have an amazing collection of books related to spiritual practices, meditation, religious beliefs, the occult and much more.

They also supply resources, tools, treatments and classes for those who are just beginning their journey of selfdiscovery as well as for those who have been following their path for a lifetime.

Classes and workshops are held throughout the month, including Reiki, meditation, Tarot Card reading, reflexology, and much more.

For those of you who are familiar with this shop, Dale, who has owned and run this business for many years, has announced her retirement from retail. However, the business will be left in very capable hands and customers will receive the same knowledgeable, caring and professional service that Dale has always provided.

Wind Spirit Wisdom and Wonders is located in downtown Orillia, 33 Mississaga St. East. Call 705-325-0461 or visit www.windspiritweb.com.

“Outfitters for your soul’s journey.”

Wishing you Good Health and Happiness in the New Year!

Fittons West Plaza 425 West St. N., Orillia 705-329-0303 lakecountrygrill.com Open daily from 11 a.m.

33 Mississaga St. E. Orillia L3V 1V4 705-325-0461 dale@windspiritweb.com

windspiritweb.com

Outfitters for Your Soul’s Journey Beautiful and Meaningful Gift-giving Ideas  Books  Cards  Crystals  Stones  Jewellery

 Incense  Statuary  Unique Gifts  Classes  Meditation

 Reiki  Readings  Akashic Records  Healing Tools

You Chill ~ We Grill

Call NOW to book your Christmas Party!

Ring in the New Year Give the Gift of

GREAT FOOD with a

Lake Country Grill Gift Card

with

Live Music and Dancing plus Champagne at Midnight!

NOW ON SALE 2018 Summer Season Flex Packs

4 Great Shows for 1 Great Price of $120!

Lovely Gift-giving Ideas The Best Selection of Loose Leaf Teas China Tea Pots, Cups & Saucers Delicious Baked Goods

June 12 - July 13

July 18 - Aug 24 PLUS!

Your choice of one of the Opera House produced Concerts!

Sept. 11 - 28

Custom Designed Gift Baskets Gift Certificates Call now to book your special holiday tea party!

Experience the charms of tea 33 Westmount Dr. N. (at Mary St.), Orillia Reservations: 705 259-0568

Open Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 4 pm, Sat. 9:30 am - 3:30 pm Phone: 705.687.5550 • 1.888.495.8888

www.GravenhurstOperaHouse.com

Serving breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea

www.whitelionsteahouse.ca 23

A very special turkey dinner Perfect Canadian rye and maple glazed turkey; a unique cornbread and sausage stuffing; and a golden giblet gravy.

By Chef Becky

CANADIAN RYE AND SAGE MAPLE GLAZED TURKEY • 15-20 lb. turkey, thawed, rinsed, cleaned and patted dry (turkey will thaw in fridge at a rate of 24 hours for every 5 lbs.)

• ½ cup butter, room temperature • ¼ cup minced sage • 1 apple, 2” pieces • 2 celery stalks • 1 small onion skinned and halved • 1 can Thornbury hard apple cider, 355 ml • ¼ cup maple syrup • 1 Tbsp. Canadian Rye Preheat oven at 325°F with oven rack on the lowest rack.

Cooking time is 15 minutes per lb.

To allow the turkey to baste inside and out as it roasts, do the following: • Place turkey breast side up on cutting board and working carefully, separate the outside skin of the turkey from the meat itself. Gently push fingers under the skin a bit at a time. The skin should still be intact, just separated from the bird.

• In small bowl combine butter, sage, salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all together.

Press the butter mixture into flat disks and place them between the skin of the bird and the breast meat.

• The remaining butter mixture should be rubbed to cover the entire inside and out.

• In a roasting pan, place 4 halved carrots flat side down in a line in the pan to act as a rack for the turkey.

Place celery ribs, apple pieces, onion chunks and herb sprigs in turkey cavity and place turkey on carrot rack.

Pour Thornbury hard cider into the bottom of the roasting pan. Place in oven and baste with pan drippings every 30 minutes until turkey is golden and thigh meat is registering 160°F. Mix together rye and maple syrup. Brush on turkey often for the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

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There are many ingredients required for these three recipes. This means preparation will be the key to your success – but you will be thrilled with the results and so will your dinner guests!

Remove from oven and let rest for 30 min. TURKEY GIBLET GRAVY before carving. Brush with remaining glaze • 10 Tbsp. unsalted butter and serve.

• Turkey neck and giblets CORN BREAD, VENISON SAUSAGE • 1 onion, peeled and quartered • 1 carrot, peeled and chopped into & KALE STUFFING ¼” rounds NOTE: any type of ground meat will work with • 1 stock celery this recipe including moose, venison, elk, boar • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or beef.

• 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 1 lb. sausage of your choice with casings • 2 bay leaves taken off, or use ground meat • 1 clove minced garlic • 1 red onion, peeled and diced into ¼ in.

• 8 cups strained turkey broth (from turkey cubes pan or store-bought) • Half a red pepper, half a green pepper, • ¼ cup flour cleaned and chopped into ¼” dice • 3 stalks celery, cleaned and chopped into Melt butter in large saucepan, toss in neck and giblets and cook and stir until browned. ¼” dice Add thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, garlic and • 8 oz. of kale, cleaned and de-stemmed broth. Bring to a simmer and reduce liquid • 3 cups turkey or chicken broth, or any amount to half of what you started with. game fowl stock Strain mixture through a sieve into a bowl.

• 2 hen eggs You should have 7 cups. If not, add more • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional). broth.

Replace with thyme or sage, if preferred.

Pour turkey pan drippings into a fat • 8 cups cornbread in 1” cubes separator. Or place in fridge till the fat goes • 8 cups potato bread or another dense to the top, discard the fat. Add the drippings bread such as sour dough, or to make it to your broth and whisk to incorporate. really different, pumpernickel In a separate stock pot, melt 8 Tbsp. of butter.

Preheat oven at 350°F. Add the flour, lower the temp and whisk Melt 4 Tbsp. butter in pan and cook off continually until it is bubbling and almost sausage. Add celery, peppers, onion and resembles a shortbread dough. Should still cook until tender. Toss in kale, cook until be blond in colour. Gradually whisk in stock wilted, 2 minutes. Add chicken broth. Bring until smooth and has thickened. Season with to a simmer and cool. coarse salt and pepper and serve.

Whisk eggs and cilantro (or other herb) in a You could add pan fried onions and large bowl. Gradually mix other ingredients mushrooms to this gravy to add texture and into the bowl and then add the bread. Mix flavour. together until moist. Stir in beaten eggs.

Pour into a pre-buttered casserole dish and cook covered with foil for 30 min.

Chef Becky Lennerton is proprietor of Black Uncover casserole and cook until brown and River Food Company and a teacher in our bubbly, 20-30 min. region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

25

By Eileen Wise

Helping local students with life-changing project

It is with great pride that this past month the Washago Lions Club worked in conjunction with the students of Severn Shores.

The Lions Club sponsored and helped students build a Gaga ball pit for the school. Students from all ages and abilities can and are now playing this fun active dodgeball type game. The pride that the students have in the creation and completion will be life changing.

The fact that they get to play every day is just an added bonus.

The Lions club also sponsored a Peace Poster Challenge. Students in grades 7 and 8 put their creative energies into some amazing drawings and messages to promote peace. Congratulations to the winner Leah Horne. Leah’s poster will go onto the Area 2 District competition in February. Best of luck to Leah.

The Lions Club is proud to partner with various groups and support the youth in our communities. Please continue to support Supported by the Washago Lions Club, students at Severn Shores School who helped build the new Gaga ball pit. the Lions Club of Washago.

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26

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27

Holiday Fire Safety

By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer, Severn Township It is the festive season when families get together for a joyous time with the sounds of holiday music, the scent of fresh winter greens and flickering lights. With so much preparation and all to do during the holidays, it can be easy to forget important safety measures. This time of year presents fire risks that can quickly turn a happy time into a devastating one.

Consider the following tips for you and your family:

COOKING

Safety

Be careful in the kitchen by keeping oven mitts & towels away from stoves and ranges.

DECORATION

Safety

Never leave burning candles unattended & keep your fresh Christmas tree hydrated.

ENTERTAIN

Safety

Ensure your guests know all exits and where the meeting place is located.

PLAY

Safety

Keep matches & lighters out of reach of children.

HOME

Safety

Test all smoke & carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working.

Severn Fire & Emergency Services wishes a healthy, safe and happy holiday season to you and your families.

Fire Chief Tim Cranney, Deputy Fire Chief Mark Hatch, Fire Prevention Officer Dianne Kyle, Administrative Assistant Karen Campbell

For more winter fire safety tips check out www.oafc.on.ca/winter-fire-safety-tips December Gallery Hours: Wed. & Thurs. Noon – 4 pm Sat. & Sun. 2 – 6 pm January & February: By appointment only

705-812-8253 • 5115 Black River Road • Washago, Ontario • Showing Beautiful Art Created by ‘Artists of The Land Between’ Featuring local artist

Kathy Nicholson

Student, teacher and painter with an affinity for nature and a strong connection to her community. Kathy’s work will be available to view starting December 1st, 2017.

Maureen Haines Stained glass artist influenced by peaceful surroundings.

Wayne Church Watercolourist of nature and abstracts of layered textured oils & acrylics.

28

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From The Team at Georgian Bay Printers We Wish You A Happy & Safe Christmas & New Years!

One of the happy winning bidders showing off a beautiful piece of art he purchased at the November 12th Leaves Are Falling auction in Washago.

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An enthusiastic crowd of art lovers showed up at the Washago Community Centre on November 12. They were there to participate in The Leaves Are Falling live auction, a sale of the large and colourful wooden leaves that adorned the main street in Washago from May until late October this year.

The auctioneers – Mayor Mike Burkett, Deputy Mayor Judith Cox, and Ward 5 Councillor Don Westcott – did a great job stirring up the bidding and encouraging the crowd to dig deep into their wallets.

Community volunteer, Peter Keith was the event emcee; Rose Petit, the community centre Hall Manager, managed the kitchen; and John LeBarr and Chris Miller provided the musical entertainment.

Glen Hudgin, the chair of the volunteer committee that organized the event on behalf of the community centre and the Washago Art Club artists, said the auction raised just over $3,200. The money has been turned over to the Washago Community Centre to be used for future arts initiatives.

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29

Celebrate the beautification of Washago landmark < Before All residents who live in Washago or adjacent area have likely seen the spectacular piece of art that has been wrapped around the iconic water tower.

For those who haven’t, the outdoor installation is complete.

Drop by anytime and have a look.

To celebrate this accomplishment, The Friends of the Washago Water Tower committee extends an invitation to the supporters of this initiative.

Join them at the Washago Community Centre on Sunday, December 3rd from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Fun. Food. Free.

After >

Happy Holidays

Merry Christmas!

From everyone at

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Please keep your pets safe during the holidays.

Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia are poisonous to cats and dogs.

Candles, tinsel, electrical cords, and broken ornaments are dangerous.

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Sat. 8 a.m. – Noon • Evening appointments available.

30

DECEMBER 2 “Soup with Santa” and Santa photos at the Heritage United Church in Washago. Potluck lunch with beverage & desert from 11:30-1:30.

Adults $5 and Children $5. Price for children includes lunch PLUS from 1:30-4 p.m. kids get same-day Santa photos. Information at 705329-1352.

DECEMBER 2 Afternoon Christmas Concert at 3:30 p.m., special guests Samuel de Champlain Elementary School Children’s Choir. Adults $10.

Children $5 (under 5 free). Family $20. St. Paul’s Centre, 62 Peter St. N., Orillia. Tickets at the door.

DECEMBER 2 Christmas Prelude at 7:30 p.m. The Orillia Concert Band, with special guest St. James’ Choir under direction of Albert Greer. St. Paul’s Centre, 62 Peter St. N., Orillia. Tickets at the door: Adults $15. Students

$10. Family $30, with children under DECEMBER 10 A Christmas Carol by Charles 17 yrs. Children under 5 yrs. free.

Dickens, a dramatic reading. Enjoy this traditional ghost story in an old DECEMBER 2 Coldwater Santa Clause Parade Victorian Church. Proceeds to the & Candlelight Walk presented by Couchiching Jubilee House. 7:30 Coldwater Lions Club. Candlelight p.m. – 9:30 p.m., $20. $15 youth. St. walk at 5:30, followed by the parade. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 99 Peter St. N., Orillia.

DECEMBER 4 Chicken Pot Pie Lunch, including DECEMBER 13 beverage and dessert. Prepared 1st Annual Carving Show – by the Severn Bridge Women’s community information meeting.

Institute. 12 Noon. $8. Severn 7:00 p.m., Washago Community Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Centre. Learn about this new event Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge. Fern to be held March 16-18, 2018 at at 705-687-4462.

Washago Centennial Park. Find out how you, your business or your community organization can be DECEMBER 9 Christmas Parade in Washago. involved.

Starts at 6:00 p.m. Come and enjoy the sparkling lights on dozens of DECEMBER 14 Christmas floats. Say hello to Santa Dickens’ – A Christmas Carol, 7:30 after the parade in the community p.m. – 9:30 p.m. One night only. centre. Free hot chocolate and Scrooge’s journey through the past, present and future comes alive with cookies. song, dance, special effects and a brilliant cast. Orilliaoperahouse.ca.

DECEMBER 17 Free Holiday Skate! From 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Rotary Place, University Ave., Orillia. Donations of new, unwrapped toys gratefully accepted. Free hot chocolate.

Sponsored by Leah C. Cavanaugh, Century 21 BJ Roth Realty Ltd., Brokerage, Orillia.

JANUARY 20 Snowshoe, a Passport to Nature Couchiching Conservancy activity.

Learn how local wildlife survives during our cold winters and watch a well-known naturalist solve the mysteries of imprints left behind in the snow. Register couchchichingconserv.ca.

JANUARY 26-28 Taylor Cup Pond Hockey. Get complete information by visiting www.pmhf3.akaraisin.com.

Volunteer or bring your family to Bayview Wildwood Resort to watch.

Fre ChoceolHaotet!

Sunday, Dec. 17

2-3:30 pm • Rotary Place Donations of

NEW UNWRAPPED TOYS

TWIN MAPLES FARM

gratefully accepted!

WEDDINGS • WAGON RIDES • SLEIGH RIDES

All toys will be distributed through the Orillia Salvation Army.

Sponsored by

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705-325-1366

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Media Sponsor

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All-Canadian New Year’s Eve

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Celebrate the close of our Canada 150 celebrations with some of your favourite Canadian music!

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