The Villager 2021 February by Villager Community News

BUYING OR SELLING A HOME? CALL:

February 2021

Washago postmaster retires. . . . . . 3 jeanpaullogiacco@rogers.com

Seniors staying active. . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Severn’s new look. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9 Join the challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Help keep Trumpeter swans safe and bask in their beauty When Susan Best isn’t working on genealogy projects, doing jigsaws or riding her indoor bike during these lockdown times, she is at Washago Centennial Park doing what she loves most – checking on the beloved Trumpeter swans. She visits almost every afternoon. For many years, Susan has been involved in and has been a key volunteer with the Ontario Swan Restoration Program. Among other responsibilities, Susan assists with tagging and tracking and identifying injured or fatally wounded swans. Susan is also involved with the winter swan count that takes place every two years in Washago. Because the tagging and banding involves two people needing to be in close contact, the count may be delayed this year. In the summer, Trumpeter swans move to quiet nesting places. Some stay in nearby wetlands while others can be found as far north as Rouyn-Noranda or at Mitchell Lake in Kirkfield. To ensure the safety of the nests, exact nesting areas are not disclosed. Based on Susan’s extensive knowledge and experience, she has advice for anyone visiting the Trumpeter swans. Leave your dog at home: A township bylaw states dogs must be leashed on township property. Also, under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, it is a

What the heck? Is this some silly new township by-law? criminal offence to harass the swans. Allowing your dog to go in the water terrifies the swans. Also, the water is frigid and there is a strong current. NOTE: In the 3rd week of January, an off leash dog went into the water after the swans. The owner then jumped into the water to rescue his dog. This could have ended tragically. Look and don’t touch: In spite of their size, Trumpeter swans are rarely aggressive unless defending a nest. Keep your distance and please allow them to live in peace with their family. Aggressive human or canine behaviour alarms the entire flock. Talk to them. Look at them. Take pictures. They aren’t really hungry but…: Trumpeter swans are in Washago because there is shallow open water at the dock. They easily forage on an abundance of

nutritious food from the bottom of the lake. If you feel compelled to feed them, please give them only untreated whole feed corn available as close as Home Hardware in Washago. Toss the corn in the water, not on the ground. Corn tossed on the ground/ snow might mix with feces and become contaminated. One last note about helping to keep the swans safe – lead shot is now illegal for use over water although there are thousands still at the bottom of most lakes and rivers. Lead sinkers and lures are illegal everywhere. A Trumpeter swan, or a loon, has only to ingest one sinker or one lead shot to develop fatal lead poisoning. Check your equipment and ensure your supplier is selling non-lead based tackle.

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Washago postmaster retires By Ellen Cohen After more than 30 years, Joy Ross closed the door of the Washago post office for the last time on January 8th. This well-known and loved postmaster has shipped her last package and moved into a well-deserved retirement. Joy started her post office career in 1989 as a `term worker`, the Canada Post employee designation for someone who only works when there is need for additional or cover-off staff. Glenys Hepinstall, the long-time previous postmaster in Washago said that hiring Joy so many years ago was one of the best things she ever did. “We had several candidates apply at that time but I knew Joy was the right choice. She was smart, immediately well-liked and was a real team player who willingly took on extra work whenever she was asked. She was definitely a great addition to Canada Post - and our community.” Joy remembers her start at the post office fondly, ``When I went into the post office in Washago asking Glenys if they needed help, I had a baby on my hip. I was so glad to be hired. Early in the morning, I would stand with my two little girls at the corner of Riverleigh and County Rd. 169, wait until their school bus arrived, and then I`d race down the road to the post office to start work. At lunchtime, I`d run home, have a peanut butter sandwich and then run back to work.” Joy eventually moved to the Cumberland Beach post office on a full-time basis where she emptied huge bags of mail, filled the 200+ mail boxes each day, and worked at

the counter helping customers. Through the years, Joy said it could sometimes be lonely working by herself but she was happy to eventually earn the position of postmaster at that location and grateful to get to know so many wonderful people in the community. Twelve years later, when Glenys Hepinstall retired, Joy became the new Post Master in Washago. “It’s all gone so quickly. Now my girls are grown and I’ve retired. I must be old, `` she said with a laugh. Although neither Joy or her husband have roots in Newfoundland, it`s where they will retire. Joy said they both fell in love with the province a few years ago, in particular Perry`s Cove, a village or outport as native Newfoundlanders call it, with a population of 800. They are both looking forward living in their salt box house near

the ocean, feeling the fog on their skin and watching the whales jump. The last thing Joy told The Villager was that she is so grateful to the staff. She said everyone ‘works their socks off’ and she is so incredibly proud of her team, how they’ve handled things especially during this difficult pandemic. “It’s hard to leave but I am so glad Deborah is there looking after things”, Joy said, adding “I hope I have been as good a teacher as I had 30 years ago.” • 7 0 5-71 7-03 2 2 •

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4 From the Publisher:

Take advantage of disrupted sleep

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

During this difficult time, are you one of many who are awake through the night, more than you might have been during normal, kinder, gentler times? Do you spend that time in the dark worrying or pacing? Maybe you have a cup of tea, read a bit, turn on an old movie and then do your best to get back to sleep? Next time this happens, take a break from your middle of the night fretting, grab your cell phone or a camera, open your blinds look outside. You never know what beauty might be waiting for you.

There is hope Oh my goodness! There is a vaccine for Covid-19 and, as we hear every day, light at the end of the tunnel. Yes, the rollout is less than perfect. It’s frustrating and makes us nervous. The shortage of supply is so disheartening. Add to that, when many of us use the online Covid-19 Vaccination Calculator, we see that even with a more robust supply in the future, it may be months before we qualify for the vaccination. But there’s hope and that’s something we haven’t felt since last March when the WHO declared a pandemic and we were put into our first lockdown. By the 3rd week of January, with the exception of a ravaged home in Barrie, Simcoe County workers and the residents in long term care home were vaccinated. If you know anyone who works or lives in a LTC facility, you understand the unbelievable relief they feel. While we wait for our turn, continue to follow all health protocols and don’t lose hope.

…but we’ve forgotten visiting homecare workers and their patients Why are homecare workers not at the top of the list to receive the Covid-19 vaccine? Shouldn’t they be at the top of the list just as all other frontline healthcare workers are? It’s easy to go on a rant about this so I will: For decades, the government, hospitals, health care agencies, doctors, nurses,

Winter moon over Lake Couchiching. Ice on the branches of an old black cracked willow tree and shadows in the snow. Photo by Ellen Cohen. patients and their families have worked together and moved towards increasing the amount of home care for those who, with professional care, can safely recover at home rather than staying in our overcrowded, under-staffed hospitals. The amount of care is still far from optimum but, I think, it has improved. Now, during a pandemic, what the heck has happened to all of these advocates? I ask this question because, as of the date of writing this rant, January 24, 2021, it appears homecare workers have simply been forgotten. Dropped off the vaccine list? Never included? Homecare workers see multiple patients every single day but, during this pandemic, they have been asked to add yet another mountain of stress to their very broad shoulders each and every time they walk into a home. They have not been vaccinated against COVID-19, and neither have their patients. We have failed these valuable frontline workers. Surely we can do better. Feel free to express your support for homecare workers. Contact your MPP at jill.dunlopco@pc.ola.org or visit her on Facebook. Phone the Minister of Health, Christine Elliott 1-800-268-1153 or visit her on Facebook. Or call the Premier 416-3251941.

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

The wily red fox By Ron Reid A few weeks ago, we found a line of small footprints on the snowy canal in front of our house. Looks like a fox, I thought, based on the tidy way the prints fell in a straight line. Sure enough, the next morning a handsome red fox trotted along the canal and disappeared behind the shrubby shoreline. Back in the 1950s when I was a lad, the sighting of a fox this close to a house would have been a cause for concern. At that time, foxes were the primary carriers of the fatal disease rabies, so an animal that wasn’t keeping a proper distance was always suspect, and often hunted to remove the danger to people and livestock. Fortunately, a government program spreading meat balls loaded with vaccine across southern Ontario has largely eliminated the disease, and foxes are no longer viewed with suspicion. Red foxes are widespread across North America, Europe, North Africa and Asia. They were introduced to Australia to help deal with that country’s rabbit infestation, and have been so successful they are now considered a pest there. Their success is no doubt linked to their adaptability; they do well in fields and woodlots, cold conifer forests and even deserts. Not surprisingly, their diet is quite variable, with a mix of small mammals, ground birds and a diversity of roots and plants. Foxes are very good at finding food. Their eyesight is excellent, but their sense of hearing is their super-power. They can hear the squeak of a mouse up to 100 metres away. In winter, a hungry fox will stand

quietly in a listening pose, honing in on the sound of a mouse, and then launch into a glorious leap, using its tail to fine-tune its destination and plunge nose-first into deep snow. More often than not, that nose emerges with a tasty critter in tow. For their family life, foxes dig a den in sandy soil or a rock crevice, where the female, or vixen, will deliver up to a halfdozen kits. These babies take several weeks to open their eyes, and may stay in the den for several months before they start to venture into the broader world. Both parents bring food to keep up with this growing brood. Sometimes kits from the previous year will stay around to share in the parenting duties as well. Foxes will take advantage of quiet building as well for dens. When we had our rustic cabin, we were unaware that a family of foxes were using the crawl space until I

was awakened one night by a very loud “Yip”, which was repeated regularly just as I was dozing off. Needless to say, I was out of bed early, and had the pleasure of watching an adult fox carrying a rabbit carcass into the den. That quieted the calling, as the kits satisfied their hunger. In my mind, red foxes are among the most beautiful of our furred animals. Across their range, they are known by many names, but my favourite name is the Ojibwe term waagosh which refers to the up-and-down bounce of a fox on the hunt. 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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Dog guides and their autism partners The Lions Foundation of Canada held their very first “Autism Assistance Virtual Graduation” on Dec 17/20, via Zoom, with approximately 400 people attending from across Canada. Thirteen ‘teams’ of newly trained dogs and their partners, children between the ages of 6 and 18 took part in the virtual graduation. One of these ‘teams’ was a male black standard poodle named Toby and his partner, Michael, an 18 year old boy from Cambridge, Ontario. Toby is Michael’s second Dog Guide. Norm Mason, a Washago Lions member, and a lifetime member of Lions Club International had made a generous donation to this sponsorship, which resulted in Toby and Michael being partnered. The Washago Lions Club and family and friends were invited to observe the Virtual Graduation via Zoom. This was an hour long presentation which was informative in many aspects of raising, training and partnering the dog guides and the autistic children. This presentation is available on You Tube if you would like to view it. We urge you to do so! The Washago Lions Club’s most recent fundraiser, ‘Puppy Calendars’ was a huge success. We thank our community and beyond for the support. Autism Assistance Dog Guides help children between 3 and 12 who are on the autism spectrum. These dog guides provide safety, companionship, and unconditional love. They offer a calming relief for children in high anxiety situations and reduce the stress

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commonly experienced in public places. Information about dog guides is available at www.dogguides. com. Also available on this site is donor information and a gift shop. Lions International, in partnership with local Lions Clubs including Washago, support the dog guide program. In addition to children on the autism spectrum, dog guides are available for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or visually impaired, have epilepsy, have diabetes or a physical or medical disability, and for facility support for professional agencies assisting individuals in traumatic situations.

Understanding the Current Real Estate Market From January – December 2020, prices in Orillia, Ramara, Severn and Oro have increased on average from between $83,000$433,000*. The significant increase in the number of people who can now work from home, combined with GTA homeowners who can sell during this record market, has resulted in many more home buyers moving to our most beautiful part of the world. They can live, work and play work here without disruption while improving their lifestyle. WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN TO YOU: Current home owners in our region have increased their equity and may be able to move on with more financial comfort. Buyers face the reality of increasing prices but, at the same time, mortgage rates remain low which helps to offset those increases. Call upon me for a confidential consultation on your real estate needs.

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Stay positive. Stay active. By Marylynne White, President Happy New Year! I wish you all a better year ahead. This persistent contagious virus has made it a very difficult time for us all. However, it is very interesting to see how many of our seniors are staying positive by using this trying time in history to explore new directions and ideas. These are just a few ideas to share with seniors everywhere; the many ways they`re keeping busy and doing their best to keep emotionally well and healthy during this pandemic.

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1. Learning to Zoom, connecting with friends and family, especially over the holidays or special occasions. 2. Our Ukulele group has been Zooming. However, the three minute delay makes for some interesting sounds! 3. The VON has offered Zoom for continued exercise classes.

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4. Book Clubs can also maintain contact and are also using Zoom to choose and discuss their book selections. 5. Daily walks are a must for some. Caution must be exercised on slippery areas but the exercise is very important. Walking poles or rubber slip-on ice cleats are very helpful. 6. Puzzles and Word Searches have become even more popular. Great for the mind. 7. Daily or weekly phone calls to friends and family have been a good way to stay connected and make sure everyone`s okay. 8. Television, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Crave, Turner Movies, have proved to be a relaxing way to enjoy time. 9. Catching up on a book, the one you had meant to read, but did not have time in the past. 10. Organizing cupboards and other household stuff has been a good way to reclaim control. 11. Gratitude journaling and scribing accounts of each day are good ways to record these times. 12. Cooking new recipes and baking bread, cookies, exploring new skills, etc. Share those recipes with others. 13. Many have been sewing masks for friends and family. This is so appreciated! 14. A couple of our members send daily YouTube jokes and interesting items to us all. Thank you. We look forward to those clips. 15. Weekly grocery shopping whether in person, on line, or curbside pick-up is now a serious â&#x20AC;&#x153;activityâ&#x20AC;?. As soon as I hear from Severn Township regarding any updates concerning group meetings, I will let you know. Let us all stay well, stay safe, stay positive and stay hopeful! Cheers!

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Township update UPDATED BRAND AND WEBSITE LAUNCHED With files from Lynn Racicot, Communications Officer, Township of Severn After months of collaborative efforts between members of council, municipal staff, and the creative agencies procured to execute the work, Township of Severn is proud to reveal its updated brand identity and website. The logo, which is based upon feedback collected from one-on-one interviews, a telephone survey, and several activities on engagesevern.ca, features a colourful palette to reflect all four seasons and multiple panels to symbolize a community of communities. Its first panel represents Severn’s historical buildings, while its second represents Severn’s waterfront connection. The third panel represents Severn’s network of trails and agriculture, while the fourth features trees as a nod to Severn’s natural elements. The final panel reflects Severn’s quaint shops and restaurants, with all panels upheld by a visual representation of the area’s many bridges. “We came to this exciting outcome thanks to data collected from more than 500 residents, community leaders, members of community organizations, and key partners in tourism and economic development,” said Mayor Mike Burkett. “Together their insights guided us towards a warm and inviting feel that reflects Severn’s natural beauty and other standout assets. It’s Council’s hope that this new brand will help us achieve local tourism and economic growth goals while stimulating a sense of renewed pride in our wonderful resident.” The website, which showcases the updated brand and logo, features improved content and streamlined navigation. In addition to accessibility improvements and the enhancement of online forms and services, it features maps, news and notices, job postings, and robust information about the community as a whole. Residents are encouraged to explore the new resident-centric website and leave feedback at severn.ca. “We recognize that our website is a primary tool for information and discovery amongst residents, staff, tourists, and investors, and couldn’t help but acknowledge the value of recreating it in tandem with the development of our new brand,” said Lynn Racicot, Communications Officer for the Township of Severn. “We’re pleased with the ease of use it offers, and feel it better reflects the quality of Severn and the opportunities we have to offer here.” Both the branding and website projects were completely funded by grants from the County of Simcoe and Government of Ontario. Visit severn.ca to learn more. Continued on page 9

9 NEW WARD 5 COUNCILLOR APPOINTED As previously reported, Sarah ValiquetteThompson resigned her seat on council in early November, 2020. That Ward 5 seat was officially declared vacant. To avoid a costly election, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, council made a decision to appoint a councillor to this position for the duration of the term. Jim McIntyre has replaced Councillor Valiquette-Thompson. He was sworn in on December 6, 2020. Councillor McIntyre has owned property in Severn for over 20 years and made Washago his full-time home in 2015. He has nearly 45 years of real estate experience and has previously sat on various committees and boards for the City of Mississauga. “I’m excited to serve the community of Severn and to represent the residents of Ward 5,” said Councillor McIntyre. “With my experience and enthusiasm, I look forward to working alongside Council and staff to move the municipality forward and make our community an even better place to live, work and play.” “Council is incredibly thankful to all the

Councillor Jim McIntyre candidates who felt motivated to work for the residents and businesses of Severn,” said Mayor Mike Burkett. “While we had many qualified candidates apply, we’re confident in the appointment of Jim McIntyre as Township of Severn’s new Ward 5 Councillor and grateful to add his knowledge and commitment to our team.”

Thirteen candidates applied for the vacant position. Each of them was given an opportunity to address Council and answer questions during a December meeting. Community members can reach Councillor McIntyre at jmcintyre@ townshipofsevern.com.

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Township of Severn approves 2021 budget With files from Severn Township media release In December, Severn council approved the 2021 budget. To protect assets and infrastructure, both now and in the future, Council supported an estimated total tax rate increase of 2.45%. An average singlefamily home in Severn will pay an additional $69 in property taxes in 2021. The approved budget reflects the funding needed to maintain current service levels for the township and its shared service partners, including Severn Township Public Library, Orillia & Lake Country Tourism, Severn Sound Environmental Association, Ontario Provincial Police, and the County of Simcoe (social services, long-term care, waste collection and more). The 2021 capital budget includes significant reinvestment into core infrastructure that supports the community. As part of Council’s Strategic Plan to invest in the services residents depend on, the

budget allocates over $4 million in road renewal that will replace 14 kilometres of the road network. Below the ground, over $1.28 million will be invested into water and wastewater utilities, with over $800,000 earmarked for the continued production of safe drinking water. The township will also invest in outdoor recreation facilities with support of federal and provincial grants for new universal washrooms in parks and a new outdoor sports field. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of safe outdoor spaces and the benefits of outdoor activity on both physical and mental health. Mayor Burkett said, “We understand that our residents may be struggling through the financial impacts of COVID-19. Council believes that drawing from capital reserves to avoid a tax increase is not a responsible

way to protect municipal infrastructure, now and in the future, requiring us to make the difficult decision of imposing a modest tax increase.`` While this budget provides for many hard infrastructure projects, it also looks to enhance the efficiency of local government through modernization of the Township’s financial systems and improved communications with residents. As the global pandemic continues, it has never been more important to improve the township’s ability to provide online services that will make the community and organization more future-ready. For more information, all final budget documents will be available at townshipofsevern.com.

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By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton Foremost, I want to kick off the year by wishing everyone the very best health, happiness and spirits for 2021. Much of the celebration we felt on New Year’s Day was tainted by the hardships of 2020 and few of us were sad to see it over. 2021 however, will continue to challenge us, our families and our livelihoods, but there is real cause for optimism as we look forward. Just one year ago, we were uncertain about what was happening around the world with a novel “flu-like” coronavirus called SARSCoV-2; later named as Covid-19. It was in fact on January 11, 2020 that the World Health Organization (WHO) published the first scientific data on the virus. Within two months, as more and more countries reported an explosion of cases, a global pandemic was declared. Governments all around the world made efforts, (and some mistakes), in trying to stem the spread and to help the victims of Covid-19, while scientists and doctors worked around the clock to study the new disease. Three months later, the full extent of the pandemic was painfully clear as hospitals overflowed with patients and drastic steps were needed to flatten the curve of infection, as well as economic measures to support our livelihoods and our economy. Meanwhile, laboratory work was already started on creating vaccines which would provide a level of immunity from the virus. New vaccine development by individual companies is a highly complex and lengthy process that has historically taken an average of between 10 to 15 years. The fastest a new vaccine has ever been developed, (the mumps vaccine in 1967) took 4 years. In order to accelerate the urgent development timeline, new medical approaches, international scientific collaboration and streamlined regulatory guidelines for approval were needed. It is astounding what has been accomplished in only months. On December 9 of 2020, the first effective vaccine by Pfizer was approved for use in Canada after meeting all of Health Canada’s rigorous guidelines. Two weeks later, on December 23, a second vaccine developed by Moderna was also approved for use. Others will follow as there are approximately 150 different companies currently working on vaccine research and development around the world. Canada has signed contracts to secure more than 400 Continued on page 13

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13 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines from various companies. All provinces and territories have developed vaccine roll-out and immunization plans, each unique to the realities in their provinces. The priority for immunization will be for those at the highest risk and who are most vulnerable. Health Canada indicates that high-priority vaccinations will be completed over the winter. Vaccinations for the general population will be proceeding in the April to June period – part of their Phase 2 rollout – all coordinated with the provinces. We have come far in the past year and while much is yet to be completed, we can be proud of ourselves as a nation to be weathering this storm reasonably well. These vaccines are critical public health tools which will, along with other health measures, get us back to good health and our livelihoods in the months ahead. So, while there is much to look forward to in 2021, one cannot help thinking of the families who have lost loved ones to this terrible disease. For their sake, let us all do our part to get past this as quickly as possible. It will save lives and get our livelihoods back to normal more quickly.

More about Severn Township GET HELP CLEARING SNOW Through Snow Angels Canada, you can request assistance to have your driveway or windows cleared during the winter months. Or, you may volunteer as a Snow Angel. How it works: register at snowangelscanada.ca. Create a post detailing your needs. On this site, you can search for and contact volunteers in your area. If you are not able to manage this online, please call the township office at 705-3252315.

to PO Box 159, Orillia, ON L3V 6J3; or in person, or at your financial institution.

PROPERTY TAXES – payment options In response to COVID-19, the township administration office is open by appointment only. Contactless payment options are strongly encouraged and include: pre-authorized payment for automatic monthly withdrawals from your bank account or on due dates. Sign up for pre-authorized payments at www.severn. ca/taxes OR pay by cheque by mailing

LIFETIME DOG LICENCES In Severn, dogs older than 20 weeks must be licenced. This tag acts as a lifeline between you and your pet if they should get lost. The township now sells annual tags for $50. The replacement fee is $10. Please complete the application at severn.ca/animalcontrol.

Nowring ters e Off Boos n i k S

M Treeso-G atm old ent s

Facial Cosmetic Injectables! Offering wrinkle treatments such as Botox Cosmetic®/Dysport® and Dermal Fillers such as Restylane®/Teosyal® Current Provincial Covid-19 guidelines allow us to provide medically necessary treatments: Migraine management; TMJ; hyperhidrosis and some others. Please call us today to book appointments for these treatments. FOR ALL OTHER COSMETIC TREATMENTS, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO ARRANGE A FUTURE APPOINTMENT.

Services provided by Emily Greb, BScN, NP-PHC Call or e-mail for your complimentary consultation.

705-259-2838 or 705-627-6283 www.facefirstinjectables.com info@facefirstinjectables.com

PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS Because of COVID-19, Ontario-wide assessment updates have been postponed. Property assessments for the 2021 tax year will continue based on the fully phased-in January 2016 property values. This means your 2021 assessment will be the same as 2020, unless there have been changes to your property. You may visit www.mpac.ca and log onto ‘About My Property’ for details.

333 Mary St., Orillia, ON L3V 3E9

NE TAKE W O MENUUT !

HEAT & SERVE FROZEN TAKE-HOME MEALS Shop by phone at our Country Store

OPEN MONDAY – SATURDAY AT 8:00 A.M. FOR TAKE OUT - CURBSIDE PICKUP Visit our Facebook Page or call us for Daily Specials 705-619-3467

1287 Madison St., Severn

Directly in front of Silver Creek Estates, a couple of minutes off Highway 11, exit Carlyon Line

WELCOME SNOWMOBILERS We are right off the trail and happy to serve you!

Lake Country honey bagels By Chef Becky INGREDIENTS: • 2¼ cups water • 1 tbsp. salt • ¼ cup honey • 5½ to 6 cups flour • 1½ Tbsp instant yeast WATER BATH: • 3 litres water • 4 Tbsp maple syrup

Gently poke small hole in middle and massage into shape. The smaller the hole and puffier the bagel, the better. Cover and let rise, 20 to 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 400. Bring pot of water to a boil, adding the maple syrup. Add 3 bagels at a time. Gently flip with slotted spatula. Put back on baking sheet.

Top bagels to your desire with egg wash, then poppy or sesame seeds. Or, for a Line 2 baking sheets with parchment savory bagel, use grated cheese and herbs. paper. METHOD:

Bake 20 to 25 minutes, until golden. Serve with smoked local trout or your favourite In a stand mixer add the following: Water, salt, honey, half the flour and yeast. cream cheese. Mix until firm, 5 or 6 minutes, adding flour as needed. Clear sides and bottom Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black of bowl as mixing. Warm water to 110°-130° F

River Food Company and a teacher in our region

Divide into 12, approximately 4 oz. pieces. for Loblaw Companies Limited. Cover let rest for 5 minutes.

If you want to know something about jewelry, talk to the man who makes it.

Custom Designed Jewelry

Over 40 Years Experience

51 Colborne St. E., Orillia 705–327–1616 www.richardsjewelrydesigns.com

Repairs While You Wait

Wood Art Sculpting & Engraving Done on Engravable Materials

Leon Brits | Cell. 289 300 0735

Leonbritssnr007@gmail.com

leon.brits.73

Free Cleaning & Inspection

Check out our

Estate Jewelry

Severn snowman challenge a great success January was officially the Month of the Snowman in Severn Township. Severn residents gleefully met the township’s challenge to build snowmen or other frosty creation, big or small, take a photo and send it in. Shown here is only one example of the dozens of snowfolk that dotted the township, from one end to the other. In the meantime, Deputy Mayor Jane Dunlop issued a challenge to Oro-Medonte mayor and council. Councillors who chose to participate would build their own snowfolk on their own properties. Mayor Steve Clarke of the City of Orillia agreed to be the judge of this friendly competition.

The Heart of Severn Challenge… During February, decorate your house, your windows, your snowmen – everything – with hearts. This challenge is about Severn’s heart. Your physical heart health and acts of kindness. While always keeping yourself and your fellow residents safe, wear a mask and social distance while you help a neighbour or a friend: pick up their oversized trash from the bottom of a neighbour’s driveway and take it to the dump; pick up a coffee and a sweet from a local shop and drop it off on someone’s porch, ring the bell and walk away; or, help a neighbour who lives alone and has difficulty getting out. Maybe you could pick up their prescriptions or groceries. To show all your neighbours and friends in Severn your act of kindness, take a selfie and send it BRUCE STANTON, M.P. SIMCOE NORTH in and the township will share it. 575 West St. S., Unit 12 Go to severn.ca for details. Orillia, ON L3V 7N6 The township motto for the Tel: 705-327-0513 • Fax: 705-327-8310 bruce.stanton@parl.gc.ca month of February: Kind hearts www.BruceStantonMP.ca are strong hearts.

Dr. Kathy Marchildon • Dr. Sandy Drury 3843 Soules Road, Severn L3V 0V3 www.lakecountryanimal.ca 705-326-4800

Mon., Thur., Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Tues., Wed. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Serving People & Their Pets Since 2006 • Preventative Care

• Surgical Services

• Diagnostic Testing

• Veterinary Dental Care

New Patients Welcome!

Washago Family Dentistry Dr. Debra Shoniker

d 16

Muskoka

Cou nty R

Street

9 Rama Rd

Hamilt on

Call us for details about our curbside / no contact service.

8291 County Rd. 169, Washago • 705-689-6600 • Exams • Cleanings • Sport Mouth Guards • Night Guards • Whitening • Mild Sedation (nitrous oxide/laughing gas)

• Bonding • Veneers • Crowns • Bridges • Implants • Dentures

Better Value Plumbing & Heating Inc. • For all your plumbing and hydronic needs •

705-689-6676

(689-NORM)

“Proudly serving the local community.”

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

Licensed & Insured

GORD’S CARPENTRY BASEMENTS FRAMED TO FINISH

BASEMENTS FRAMED TO FINISH Renovations • T-Bar Ceilings • Decks & Fences

REASONABLE RATES FOR QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

Call today for a free estimate 705-259-2704

No Water?

New Installations and Repairs on Wells and Lake Draw Systems Pump & Electric Motor Repairs Call RICK Today

Just Fix It 705-689-RICK (7425)

Over 27 Years Experience

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

Licensed by Ministry of Natural Resources

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

READY FOR TAX SEASON? Advice • Preparation • Filing Family Owned & Operated PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

Serving Simcoe County & Muskoka

705-205-0713 sales@washagoplumbing.com

LAKE COUNTRY CONTRACTING • Serving the Lake Country region •

Dependable, Quality Work • Renovations • Landscaping • Decks • Docks • Bunkies • Boathouses • Driveways • General Repairs and Installs

TERRY J. HEHN CPA CA 705-331-1570 • tjhehn@gmail.com Professional • Reliable • Affordable Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Cheryl Hammell Orillia, Ontario

705 345-0615

Shane Ross • 705-818-0873 • LakeCountryContracting.ca

info@cherylspainting.ca

www.cherylspainting.ca

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

tracy maday

3435 Timberline Ave Severn L3V 0V8

705-514-0068

quality cuts

& shaves

BayouBarber.ca

CPA, CGA

705-495-2522 chebert@accountingwashago.com • Expert Tax Preparation • • Bookkeeping & Financial Statements •

BOARD YOUR DOG OR SMALL ANIMAL NO KENNEL. NO CRATE.

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

PET SITTER

My name is Paul, a local resident, retired teacher, and someone who loves animals! I would love to care for your pet while you are at work, away for the weekend, or on vacation. $20 per visit (which includes walks and/ or spending time, topping up food and water, etc.)

Call or text me for details.

705-826-3482

References upon request.

18 Photo: Tanya Clark of The Couchiching Conservancy, and Charlie.

A new year. Same mission. By Courtney Baker

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. Call today for information & an appointment.

333 Mary Street, Orillia 705.259.2838 www.ofcwc.com

Some things never go out of style, like protecting the environment. With the fresh potential of a new year, many people will have resolved to exercise and get outside. Given the current ‘situation’ connecting with nature has never been more important for our physical and mental wellbeing. So, in 2021 while you hit the trails we encourage you to do double duty and contribute to a healthy environment at the same time. One of the easiest ways to protect nature while you enjoy all the region has to offer is to stay on the path. There are an amazing array of rare plants in our region, beautiful orchids, carnivorous pitcher plants, and much more; sometimes just off the trail. If you don’t have ecologistlevel identification skills you may miss them in some growing stages. So please, always stay on the trails which were laid out with the impact on a variety of species in mind. My next tip for protecting nature on the trail is to leave no trace. As they say, take only pictures and leave only footprints. You may wonder why we do not have garbage or recycling at our nature reserves. It’s because we have a ‘pack it in/pack it out policy’, what you bring with you, you take home. This protects animals from the harmful effects of litter. We also ask that people do not take anything from the forest. If you are enjoying nature with a furry friend, please keep them on a leash at all times and be sure to pick up after them. Our nature reserves, home to many plants, are also home to animals including bears, porcupines, and skunks. We are merely visitors and nobody wants Continued on page 19

19 people or our four legged friends to harass wildlife. This becomes increasingly important given current physical restrictions. Please do not let your friendly dog jump up to greet other path users or otherwise make physical contact. Another great way to help is to stay close to home. There are lots of wonderful natural places to discover in our region, including 9 Conservancy reserves, with footpaths. Stay local and reduce your carbon footprint. And last but not least – donate! If you are interested in keeping nature close to home help us by becoming a member. Our website has all the information you’re looking for. Go forward, know that we at The Conservancy welcome you and are hoping that all of our community members enjoy a safe and peaceful 2021. Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, Protecting Nature for Future Generations. www.couchichingconserv.ca

Award winners announced

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

The Orillia Business Women`s Association has announced the winners of the recipients of the outstanding woman and young woman of the year. Normally, the winners would have been announced at a gala but this year, because of Covid-19, the ‘gala’ moved online. Donna Howlett, OBWA president said, “My heartfelt congratulations to Carolyn-Marie Goodwin as the recipient of our 2020 Woman of the Year award and to Julianne Pires, our 2020 Young Woman of the Year award recipient.`` Donna also sends sincere thanks to the 2020 Gala Committee: Sheila Hayden, Shelle Hossack, Susan Zaroski, Leah Cavanaugh and Ronda Hales. She added, “To our sponsors, I can’t thank you enough for continually being there for us.”

MUSKOKA DENTURE CLINIC MARK J. FANTUZ, D.D. Denture Specialist

Complete and Partial Dentures Relines and Repairs Mouthguards Free Consultations

Serving Severn, Muskoka & Area for 25 years

705-687-5152 • 1-800-315-5229

455 Muskoka Road N. Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1G3 Email: info@muskokadenture.com Website: www.muskokadentureclinic.net

Always an excellent selection of Roasts, Chops, Steaks, Ground Beef, Chicken

Great variety of Vegetables and Fruit Fresh to create a great meal!

Delicious, freshly prepared take-out Sandwiches • Ask for panini-press Pizza • Salads

CUSTOMERS PLEASE NOTE: in order to help keep everyone as safe as possible, please sanitize your hands when entering our store, wear a mask and practice social distancing. We are grateful for your efforts.

Freshly Brewed! Serving only our Premium

Muskoka Roastery Coffee Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Shag Fog, Chai Tea Latte, Green Tea Latte

WE HAVE VERY SPECIAL TREATS FOR YOUR SWEETHEART: Roses, cards, chocolates and incredibly delicious baked goods!

Always Daily Fresh Baking! Pies • Squares • Cookies Dinner Rolls • Bread Buns • Specialty Rolls

Canoe’s Meat Pies