The Villager 2016 February

February 2016

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Your tax dollars at work Severn Township Review

By Ellen Cohen Mayor Mike Burkett and CEO Henry Sander, Severn Township talked to The Villager about updates and several important township projects, including the new community centre in Westshore, Ward 4.

The following is a review of some of the most notable 2016 projects and expenditures.

Update on new lighting Work on replacing 744 light fixtures in the township started at the beginning of December and by the end of that month, there were only 40 fixtures left to complete. Henry Sander, Severn’s CEO said that the amount of work completed fell well within the funding guidelines i.e. the Green Energy funding provided by Hydro.

The township is happy with the result of the new installations, particularly noting the savings in energy costs.

Mayor Mike Burkett pointed out that the new lights are a big improvement to the community of Washago. Instead of looking up the main street and seeing

unattractive poles and wires, the focal point now is the new lighting that illuminates the village.

Community Centre in Westshore Work towards a new community centre in Westshore, Ward 4 continues.

Within the 2016 budget there is an allocation of $250,000 for architectural design.

Over the next few months, mayor and council along with the architectural firm that will be chosen through a tender process, will have comprehensive discussions on what is to be included in the project. Current plans call for the centre to include a gymnasium, a well-equipped kitchen and the Westshore Community Policing Centre.

Township staff and council point out that the new community centre is a complex project with some unique challenges.

An important consideration is the provincial government’s

An example of one of the new residential projects in Ward 4, the township’s fastest growing ward. desire for the township to locate it in a central location of Westshore. As Mayor Burkett says, “We don’t have a crystal ball to look 20 years down the road and, because of the acceleration of residential development in the area, it’s certain that today’s centre of the area will not be the centre down the road.” However, the mayor, council and staff are conducting a very thorough planning process. They are confident they will make a good decision for the future of the Westshore community.

“The community centre

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location will be a best guess but it will be made with extensive consultation and every piece of information we have available,” the mayor said.

Another issue regarding the community centre is the fact that the township doesn’t own land in the Westshore area.

There are, however, two 10-acre sites own by a developer(s). As is a normal practice, the land for the centre will be located on property owned by a developer who will give the township land or the equivalent value in cash.

Continued on page 13

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Local business provides extraordinary deep nature excursions

By Ellen Cohen If setting out on a thrilling adventure to a stunning location 5,250 kilometres away from the corner of Highway 11 and Country Rd. 169 seems like only a dream, Alison Braun will tell you that your dream can easily become a reality. Alison is the proprietor of a local business, EarthTreks and she sets out on this adventure to Ecuador four or five times a year, most often with local residents. She and her team can guide you from the Green River in Washago to the Green River and the Pailon del Diablo falls in Ecuador.

As with so many who now operate a home-based business, the road to opening EarthTreks was a long one. For years, Alison worked in the health system both with the LHIN (Local Health Integrated Networks) and Health Force Ontario. Her responsibilities included community engagement, facilitation, planning and research, and public presentations. She also worked with physicians, those in their last year of residency, helping them to transition to their practice.

But almost two decades before that she traveled to Mindo, Ecuador, following her passion for nature, particularly environmentally sensitive areas of the world. There she met her husband-to-

This stunning waterfall, called Pailon del Diablo, is at the end of the Green River just outside of Banos, Ecuador. be, Felipe at an environmental education centre, Amigos de la Naturaleze de Mindo.

They worked together at an organization at which they are still involved at the director level. This organization oversees the protection of 19,200 hectares. Alison said that her time spent there was one of the most rewarding times of her life.

Today, fluently bilingual in Spanish, Alison lives back in Canada. She and her family lived in Orillia for a while but now own a lovely property along the Green River just a few minutes outside of Washago.

They have a busy and interesting life with three children. Alison is deeply involved in her company, EarthTreks. Her husband, Felipe is a partner. And Felipe, who is a

skilled and successful carpenter, also runs his own home-based business, Century Woodworking.

Alison and Felipe have also maintained a home in Ecuador, Felipe’s home country, for the past 16 years. Because they return to Ecuador regularly, home ownership in this paradise provides ready accommodation and a peaceful place to stay while near the protected lands for which they have so much passion.

“The primary reason for starting my business was to give people a chance to have what I’ve had – a deep nature experience in one of the most extraordinary places on earth,” says Alison.

Continued on page 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Art director: Cathy Cleary, www.cathycleary.tel

January, 2016 - a new dawn on Lake Couchiching, giving hope to all.

From the Publisher:

Local volunteers work hard to enrich your life Throughout our region, from Gravenhurst south to Orillia, hundreds of people are working every day of the year creating and preparing events they know you and your family will enjoy.

Starting in February, you’ll see posters in store windows or postings on Facebook or Twitter letting you know what’s coming up in your neighbourhood. Every month The Villager publishes Community Happenings, usually a list of 12-14 events, and Ontario’s Lake Country website posts events on a calendar that will let you look many months ahead at both our immediate area and the greater Simcoe region.

However you get your event information, consider getting more involved in your community. Show your appreciation for the volunteers, make a decision to do something different, and attend even one or two of some of those great events.

Two of the local not-to-be-missed events: • February 9th is the traditional Shrove Tuesday pancake supper at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, a lovely 100+ year-old church at the corner of County Rd. 169 and Quetton St. If you haven’t attended this event in the past, know that it is busy. You may have to sit and wait in the church while a table becomes available. And while you sit and wait on an old wooden pew, take a look around at this church’s simplicity and imagine the faithful sitting there long, long ago.

• Ramona Winterfest on February 13th is another event that you and your entire family should consider attending. Similar to St. Paul’s supper, Winterfest is organized entirely by volunteers. They work for months to present an old-fashioned winter event. It hasn’t changed much in 127 years, which is one of the reasons it is so appealing. There are details on their website www.ramonahall.ca.

Most of the events are minutes away and many are either free or very inexpensive. The pancake supper is freewill giving. Winterfest is only $5/person.

Lastly, if you’re considering some volunteer work in 2016, in addition to local churches and non-profit event organizations, the Washago Lions and Rotary clubs, as well as the Washago Community Centre would be very grateful for your help.

All the very best in 2016!

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

Letters may be edited.

5

Come and see what all the fuss is about

By Mark Bisset In most organizations, the words “Annual General Meeting” conjure up a dusty notion of drudge work that is important but boring. The idea of having fun at an AGM hardly enters the imagination.

Here is one of the curious things about The Couchiching Conservancy - our AGMs are fun. I’ve got proof: for years, attendance at our annual meeting has usually come in between 120 to 180. Even in the midst of a terrible snow storm two years ago, more than 75 people slogged through the doors, anxious not to miss what has become known among our members and supporters as “the social event of the season.” They’re only half-joking.

Old friends mingle with newcomers and celebrate the things we’ve all achieved together over the last 12 months. Without fail, there’s lots to celebrate. More land brought under protection through hard

work and strong partnerships; more habitat restored and cared for; more species at risk given a fighting chance; incredible volunteer efforts; friendships forged.

There’s no denying the satisfying feeling of accomplishment and ownership. That’s not always a given these days when people who care about the environment get together.

Often the atmosphere is more grim in the face of all the ecological problems we face. But action is a powerful tonic, and the Conservancy has delivered positive action in the region for more than two decades.

Together, we’ve made things better, methodically building a different future for our kids. We know that at least some of the natural beauty of the region will be retained; that tourists might still be coming here generations from now to gently enjoy the wild charms and sparkling waters that make us want to live here now.

There’s lots of work yet to do, but the vision is untarnished. That is the source of the energy and the fun that permeates our

Mark your calendar March 5 & 6

The Pathway to Life Weekend Seminar at the Christian Fellowship Chapel, 1296 Cambrian Road, Township of Severn. Speaker Dr. David Barker, president of Heritage College & Seminary in Cambridge, Ont. Starts Sat. at 7 p.m. and continues on Sunday at 11 am.

Everyone welcome.

Mark Mattson of Lake Ontario Waterkeeper will take the stage at the Conservancy’s annual general meeting on February 6th.

Annual General Meeting. It’s the foundation for all the optimism that is palpable among the like-minded folks who gather.

If you’ve been following this column and found yourself interested in the Conservancy, I invite you to come out and take a look. We’re gathering at ODAS Park in Orillia February 6 from 2-4 p.m. and our guest-speaker, Mark Mattson of Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, will take the stage at about 3 p.m. Like our conservancy in the Couchiching region, the Waterkeeper movement is working for a day when Lake Ontario is clean and wild.

I guarantee you’ll leave feeling more optimistic about our chances.

April 16/17

The Orillia Quilters’ Guild presents The Sunshine Quilt Show at Trillium Manor, 12 Grace Ave., Orillia from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Quilt exhibits and sales, members’ Sunshine Market, vendors, tea room, quilt raffle. $5/day/ person, men admitted free. Call 705-259-0854 or visit www.orilliaquiltersguild.com.

Mark Bisset is the executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy, a land trust dedicated to protecting the wild places of our region for future generations. For more information on the Conservancy, please visit couchichingconserv.ca.

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Physician-assisted dying

By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton

There are a range of important issues that will come before Parliament in the coming months, and, as usual, I’m eager to hear your thoughts on them.

One of the first will be the issue of physician-assisted dying. As you may know, in February 2015, the Supreme Court of Canada struck down the criminal code sanctions against physicians or others who assist adults suffering from unbearable pain in ending their lives. The court concluded that they violated Canadians rights under section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees the “right to life, liberty and security of the person and the right not to be deprived thereof except in accordance with the principles of fundamental justice.”

It should be noted that the court outlined three conditions

that must be met for it to be permissible for a physician to assist in ending someone’s life.

The person must: (1) Be a competent adult; (2) Clearly consent to the termination of his/her life; (3) Have a grievous and irremediable medical condition (including an illness, disease or disability) that causes enduring suffering that is intolerable to the individual in the circumstances of his or her condition.

The court gave parliament one year to enact new legislation, and Prime Minister Trudeau’s government has requested an additional six months to enable it to consult with Canadians on the issue.

Over the coming weeks, I’m going to reach out to various groups and organizations in the riding with expertise and

Simcoe North MP welcomes your input on the issue of physicianassisted dying. familiarity on this complex area of medical ethics and practices, and I want to hear from you as well. I know this can be a highly personal and emotional issue, but I hope you can share your thoughts and experiences with me so we can help inform the government.

Please share your thoughts with me by email at bruce.stanton@parl.gc.ca or by regular mail (no postage necessary) at Room 528-N, Centre Block, Ottawa ON, K1A 0A6

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Rotary steps up to support the community Community sports field: Work is underway at the “Community Sports Field” on the property of the Hope Community Christian Church in Cumberland Beach. With the help of generous community partners, things are really taking shape.

The Washago Rotary Club has been supporting the skating rink portion of the project and thus far: top soil has been removed; “B” gravel is levelled and compacted; weeping tile has been installed; and “A” gravel is levelled and compacted. Next comes the installation of water lines, installation of electrical conduit and pouring of the concrete pad.

A fun Christmas: We held our annual Christmas party this year at our local treasure, the R’ Cottage Restaurant. The atmosphere and delicious food made it a very special evening. Also this year, the Washago Lion’s Club generously invited our members to join them for their annual Christmas party. A whole table of us joined them for fun and yummy Chinese food from the Northland. Thanks for the invite, Lions!

Wild Game Dinner: Planning is under way for our popular Wild Game Dinner.

Watch for more details as they emerge…

Standing at the site of the Community Sports Field are Darren White, Washago Rotarian and Barry Elliot, the project manager.

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Home oxygen safety

By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer

Although generally safe, oxygen poses a fire risk and as such you’ll need to take certain safety steps. The potential for a fire hazard around oxygen is well-known. In the presence of oxygen, a small fire can quickly get out of control.

The first lesson to understand the safety aspect for home oxygen is to learn about fire. The fire triangle is a simple model for understanding the necessary ingredients for most fires.

The triangle illustrates the three elements a fire needs to ignite: fuel, (items within your home), an oxidizing agent (usually oxygen) and heat which could be a spark of electricity, a burner on a stove or a cigarette. A fire naturally occurs when the elements are present and combined in the right mixture. A fire can be prevented or extinguished by removing any one of the elements in the fire triangle. An example of

this is if a pot catches fire on the stove the method to extinguish is to “put a lid on it”, this takes away the oxygen. Turning off the stove, takes away the heat.

Oxygen is a safe gas as long as it is used properly. Contrary to what most people believe, oxygen will not explode. However, oxygen does support combustion.

Therefore, any material that is already burning will burn much faster and hotter in an oxygen-enriched atmosphere. Think of what happens when you blow into a fire - it makes the flame bigger.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home. Plan your escape and a meeting place for your family.

Smoking can be very dangerous.

• No one should smoke in a room where you or your child is using oxygen.

• Put a “NO SMOKING” sign in every room where oxygen is used.

• In a restaurant, keep at least 6 feet away from any source of fire, such as a stove or fireplace.

Keep oxygen 6 feet away from: • Toys with electric motors • Electric baseboards or space heaters • Wood stoves or fireplaces • Electric blankets • Hairdryers, electric razors and electric toothbrushes Be careful with your oxygen when cooking: • Keep oxygen away from the stove top and oven.

• Watch out for splattering grease. It can catch fire.

• Cooking with a microwave is okay.

Do not store your oxygen in a trunk, box, or small closet. Keep liquids that may catch fire away from your oxygen. This includes cleaning products that contain oil, grease, alcohol, or other liquids that can burn. Do not use Vaseline or other petroleum-based creams and lotions on your face or upper part of your body unless you talk to your respiratory therapist or doctor first. Avoid tripping over oxygen tubing. Try taping the tubing to the back of your shirt. Teach children not to get tangled in the tubing.

If you have any questions, please call the Fire Prevention Division at 705-325-2315, ext. 248.

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It’s a new year and the department responsible for culture, recreation and leisure in Severn Township is working hard to move things along for 2016.

The new Intro to Theatre program, in partnership with the Village Players of Coldwater, had a great response. The program teaches youth about what happens behind the scenes and on stage. Thanks to the Matchedash Community Heritage Centre for providing the space.

The 2016 township budget includes more energy efficient lighting for the Coldwater & District Community Centre. The lighting will be installed once the ice is taken out in late spring, resulting in a brighter and greener facility.

Township docks will be assessed and the replacement of the Washago dock is anticipated while parks in the township

will have more maintenance improvements. Lighting will be added to Timberline Park and certain parks will have improved accessible pathways installed. Improvements to Bass Lake Woodlands Park outdoor rink/pickleball court are being considered in phases.

Arena, ball diamond and park bookings are now being completed through the township offices. View what is booked at www. townshipofsevern.com. Choose Municipal Services/Recreation & Leisure/Facilities and Docks for facilities; choose Programs for Recreation Programs, “View Facility Schedule Here”; and choose “Facility Schedules” for the arena, hall, ball diamonds and sports fields.

Booking of facilities is not available on-line. For facility booking, or if you do not have online access for your other needs, call the township offices at 705-325-2315.

Who has more fun than Washago Seniors Club?

9

By Marylynne White, club president Over 150 of our club members enjoyed a delicious lunch at Fern Resort on Wednesday, December 2nd. Beautifully displayed prizes, expertly wrapped by Ina Patterson, were on display. More than 40 of our members were lucky prize winners.

Also, members donated toonies in an effort to raise much needed money for The Sharing Place, the largest area food bank.

After our lunch, we were treated to beautiful Christmas music and we played many fun interactive holiday-themed games. Robert Lutes, disc jockey (dj2themax) kept the fun going with great songs from the 50’s and 60’s and beyond.

Finishing off the year, on Wednesday, December 16th, we had our birthday meeting. The Harmony Singers and the SUBS, our ukulele players entertained the group with lovely musical selections. Thank-you to Doreen Philip for her musical “masterful” leadership.

Later the Birthday Kids for December were honoured.

Happy Birthday was sung and cake was served.

We’re excited as we now move into the year 2016. Many trips and events are planned for this year.

Happy New Year to everyone and may it be filled with good health and great fun!

10 Local business provides extraordinary deep nature excursions

Washago Community Centre

Continued from page 3 EarthTreks provides seamlessly guided deep nature experiences to mysterious and beautiful parts of Ecuador, including to a community of people who are the last group to have had contact with the outside world, the Huaorani.

While most of Alison’s clients have been in the 50+ age group, the trip to Ecuador would appeal to any age, Alison says. The cost of the trip is under $1,400 which includes accommodation and guides, most meals and most activities.

Each trip accommodates up to 14 participants, a small enough group to stay within the definition of being socially responsible, leaving behind

Skating Rink Our volunteer, Andy has been working on the rink but, unfortunately, even by early January, the weather did not cooperate. We hope that by the time you receive this edition of The Villager, we will have ice Alison Braun, owner of EarthTreks will take you on an excursion of and many of you will have been enjoying skating and hockey. a lifetime. the smallest possible footprint.

Professional guides, included in the cost of the excursion, focus on nature, local culture and history.

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“It’s the knowledge the guides have that helps to make EarthTreks excursions unique and so memorable,” states Alison.

Her goal, she says, is to move people from a typical beach vacation to a deep nature excursion, a vacation that will give people new knowledge and wonderful memories.

Complete details, including a photo gallery, are available at www.earthtreks.ca. Alison Braun can be reached directly by calling 705-689-6897 or toll free 844-689-6897.

February 13, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Photo contest results. Enjoy refreshments and cake.

Canada Day and Christmas Celebration Yes, it seems early to be talking about these events. However, a lot of planning goes into these community events and getting started soon is the right thing to do. Think about getting involved in the planning process and become a part of these exciting events. Both are important and traditional celebrations in our village. If you are willing to help, contact Rose at the Community Centre, 689-6424.

Programs All programs began the week of January 18 and continue for 10 weeks.

PHOTO CONTEST: submissions due by February 11.

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Great Canadian Charcuterie Board - no cooking required

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By Chef Becky Lennerton The charcuterie board is great for Canadian winter entertaining.

Mingle with friends, sample local craft wine or beer, and enjoy a culinary adventure.

The benefits to preparing a charcuterie board are many and none less appealing than there is no cooking required and you are able to choose ingredients to your own taste. You’ll be sure to put this on your list for future entertaining.

The following are some suggestions for your sharing platter: • A wonderful selection of Canadian cheeses, such as Brie, Oka, Cheddar, Chevre (goat cheese) and Canadian Blue. The point here is to mix colours and textures.

Therefore, a nice mix of hard and soft cheeses will work well.

• Crostini (dried bread rusks), water crackers and artisan crisps.

• Charcuterie means cold smoked meats. A sample of dried sausages, pates, salamis is best, ideally from that fall hunt or local suppliers.

• Fruits such as grapes, figs (dried or fresh), dried fruits and nuts such as apricots and pistachios, and fresh berries.

• Olives, homemade pickles and relishes. Also here is a place for olives and homemade pickles and relishes.

Arrange everything on a plain platter or wood board and with a presentation that allows everything to stand out. The photo included with this recipe will give you some ideas on how to design your presentation.

Serve with cheese knives and pickle forks.

For a little added fun to your charcuterie board event, have available a pad of paper and pens along with a palate cleanser (water crackers or crostini work well). Each guest

can write down notes on the beer and or wine sampling.

Have fun!!!!

Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

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13 Your tax dollars at work: Severn Township Review Continued from page 1 “We have to determine what to include in the centre and this needs to be a comprehensive discussion with council, staff and the architect. Once we’ve made those decisions, the announcement of a location could be within a few months,” Mayor Burkett said.

He added that Severn has only one centre (Coldwater) that could be used if, for example, there was a significant emergency and residents had to have a safe place to go. An important part of the planning for the new Westshore centre, says Mayor Burkett, is to ensure residents on the west side of the township have equivalent opportunity for emergency shelter with facilities such as showers.

In any event, residents will learn much more over the next few months, including the location which can’t be disclosed until final approval by council.

Budget At the time of publication of this issue of The Villager, Severn residents will have received an interim tax bill.

Policing, education and county components have not yet been finalized. Until that time, the exact percentage increase isn’t known. Last year the education component helped to reduce the overall tax increase. By the

time residents receive their second tax bill, sent out in the summer for August and October installments, the township will have made final adjustments that will reflect final policing, education and county increases or decreases.

Roads Always a major expense and one of the top three important issues for residents, the roads program is again aggressive for 2016. Capital spending alone will be $3,964,000. To point out how quickly that allotment is spent, Henry Sander, the township’s CEO, pointed to three projects that will account for almost half of that budget: A single lane bridge on Townline Rd. will be rebuilt and become two lanes. In addition to increased traffic on the bridge, bridge standards have changed over the years and the bridge is in such poor repair it must be replaced completely. The cost of this project is $1,164,000, half of which will be paid for by OroMedonte Township. The cost to Severn Township, therefore, is close to $600,000.00.

Division Rd., between Hwy. 12 and Burnside is in great need of repair. Council has looked at several options and have elected to spend $900.000.00.

Staff and council are confident that the road will be wellrepaired and have chosen this option as opposed to building a

new road that would have been a multi-million dollar project.

Carlyon Line is a third example of major road work.

The pavement work on this road will cost $500,000.00.

Mayor Burkett says that the township would love to pave every road but they know that some roads haven’t been worked on in 20 years. “We can’t wait any longer for some of the major jobs, roads that have been neglected for a long time.

If we wait too long, the end result could be losing roads and the cost would be much greater in the long term.”

Mike Burkett, mayor of Severn Township, is confident about Official Plan the future of Westshore’s new Also in the 2016 budget is community centre. the township’s official plan which is a critical component in the planning process, Equipment The cost of a new fire impacting future budgets and important projects. The truck for Station 4 has been review, always a long-term and approved. However, council complex process, has begun will put this purchase on hold and will be completed in 2017. for now because of the falling The township will also work loonie versus the U.S. dollar. If concurrently on a Ward Study/ purchased now, the additional review. This study is to ensure cost could be as high as that the electorate numbers in $150,000.00.

A tandem plow truck has each of the wards are as equal as possible. For example, Ward also been approved and will be 4 has been, and will continue purchased this year. to be, the fastest growing ward in the township resulting in Staffing The township is searching larger voter numbers than even a few years ago. A ward review for a Director of Public Works. parties should may result in ward boundaries Interested contact the CEO, Henry Sander. being changed.

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An introduction from your new MPP

By Patrick Brown, Simcoe North MPP and Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario

Some of you have probably been wondering, who is Patrick Brown? That is why I have decided to continue Garfield Dunlop’s monthly column in this paper – to tell you a little bit more about myself, the work I have been doing as your representative at Queen’s Park, and what I want to do for the people of Simcoe North.

With Garfield Dunlop as my advisor, I have been exploring everything Simcoe North has to offer, and getting to know its residents– it is of the utmost importance to know and understand the people you represent in order to best serve their interests.

I believe as a politician, we have the opportunity to create and implement policies that can improve lives – if in politics for the right reasons you can do great things for your community, your province, and your country.

Through my role as your MPP and Leader of the Official Opposition, I have the responsibility of ensuring the government does what’s in the best interests for Simcoe North residents and the people of Ontario.

Government policies have a tremendous impact on our day-to-day lives, and recently we’ve seen

how some policies can hurt families, businesses and entire regions. A report released by the Auditor General found that government manipulation in the energy sector resulted in $170-billion unnecessary costs to ratepayers. Ontario has among the highest energy rates in the world, and these soaring prices have caused companies to shut down and move to other jurisdictions, contributing to the loss of more than 350,000 manufacturing jobs. These losses have hit close to home – General Mills announced they were closing their plant in Midland.

But with challenges also comes the opportunity to stand up for Ontarians.

I have always said there is no monopoly on a good idea – if an idea is in the best interest of Ontarians I will support it, regardless if it was introduced by the Liberals, NDP, or PCs. This is why I was so proud when the government announced late last year they would not be extending the municipal land transfer tax, following significant opposition from the Ontario PC Caucus, stakeholders and Ontarians.

Over the next few years, I look forward to presenting a strong voice for accountability in the legislature, and I am very excited to share the journey with you through this magazine.

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Cancer care close to home It’s been a year since the cancer clinic at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH) reopened its doors as a satellite of the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program at Barrie’s Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) and the program is getting strong reviews from patients.

“My treatments in both Barrie and Orillia have been excellent,” said Sue Griffin, an Orillia

resident diagnosed with breast cancer in June who describes her care between the two facilities as “seamless”.

Griffin’s surgery and all of her chemotherapy were done in Orillia, while she visits the regional centre in Barrie for tests and additional updates.

“Patient reactions to the new surroundings and the quality of care have been overwhelmingly positive,” said Dr. Rob Cambridge

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As a satellite of the regional centre, Cambridge says OSMH plays a critical role to ensure the highest quality of care with the added benefit of offering care closer to home.

Griffin says, “For me there is a real comfort factor knowing I can go to OSMH, a hospital that I have visited over the years and come to know. We have the opportunity right here that many do not, of having a great facility in our own backyard.”

After several years as a standalone cancer clinic, OSMH determined its oncology program needed to establish an affiliation with a regional program to ensure alignment with Cancer Care Ontario guidelines and tap into the

Patient Sue Griffin stands outside the entrance to the satellite cancer clinic at OSMH. broader resources available at the regional centre.

The satellite clinic at OSMH welcomed its first patient in November, 2014.

With files from Terry Dyni, Community Relations, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital

A fantastic way to start the year!

By Sandra Crawford, Past President Our meeting on Monday, January 11th, Washago’s first Lions dinner meeting of the year, was a very exciting event. We welcomed 5 new members. Our club was delighted to share a delicious dinner with our new friends, complete with scrumptious deserts.

The new members, who were installed by Governor Richard Ratensperger, are: Glen Blacklock, sponsor Lion Mike Diaram; Juri Merelaid, sponsor Lion Garnet Langelle; and James Rogers, Don Rogers and Karin Rogers, sponsored by Lion Jim Rice. We welcomed our new members with the Washago & District Lions Club ‘Roar Roar Roar’.

Governor, Richard Ratensperger was also our guest speaker for our January 11th meeting. He talked about the upcoming Lions Learning Weekend that will be held March 19th and 20th in Barrie.

The weekend will go a long way to help new members learn about the many choices (within the Lions Club) in which they may get involved. For the seasoned members of the club, the weekend is a good opportunity to refresh themselves about club opportunities and to talk about and exchange new ideas.

Pictured above, from left to right: Juri Merelaid, Glen Blacklock, Mike Diaram, Grant Langelle, Jim Rice, James Rogers, Karin Rogers, Don Rogers and Governor Richard Ratensperger.

Richard also touched on the upcoming Lions convention on April 17th and 18th, 2016. The convention is being held in beautiful Muskoka at the Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville.

Lastly, Richard touched on the many ways Lions members help the community through the course of the year.

Thank-you to our governor, Richard Ratensperger for joining us at our first annual dinner meeting and for a wonderful ceremony welcoming our new Lions.

Grey Cup Raffle: the winner of the Polaris ATV and Triton Trailer is Michael Godfrey of Toronto. The draw took place on Sunday, November 29th 2015 at 9:00 pm. Congratulations Michael.

Don’t forget Dougie’s Jam Night at the Washago Lions Hall Wednesday, February 17 at 7pm. – and thank-you for your support for the Food Bank at the December 16th, 2015 Jam. It was a fantastic success.

19

20

Making the most of your patagium

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We had a crisis at our house the other night, but it did give us a chance to see a patagium up close.

What was the crisis and what the heck is a patagium?

Well, the crisis involved a cute little critter called a flying squirrel, and the patagium is the essential bit of their anatomy that supports their aerial lifestyle.

You could probably guess that we feed the birds. Some of our feeders are just outside our second-story windows, where it is easy to see our feathered visitors. Over the past few months, we have also had regular night-time visitors from at least three flying squirrels who love the peanut halves in one of our caged feeders.

The cage is meant to exclude gray squirrels and grackles, but the smaller flying squirrels can readily reach through for their nightly snack. The peanuts are held in by a wire mesh screen and, unfortunately, somehow one of the squirrels had firmly entangled his teeth in those fine wires.

We watched him struggle and realized we had to bring the feeder inside, squirrel and all, much to the interest of our house cat. Both to foil the cat and to make sure a freed squirrel couldn’t disappear behind the furniture, we locked ourselves in the bathroom along with various screwdrivers and pliers, and went to work.

It took twenty-minutes of twisting and prying to finally give the little fellow enough leeway to escape and then, there he was, cuddled in the palm of my hand. He was obviously a bit traumatized but otherwise seemed okay. His large dark eyes and silky fur were definitely appealing. It was easy to see the loose flap of skin between his front and back legs – that’s the patagium.

When we opened the window, he sprang from my hand and glided quickly to a nearby tree, legs spread to create a square sail.

While these squirrels don’t really fly, of course, their gliding ability is amazing. If they have a high launch point, they can glide for up to 150 feet before touching down again. They use their tails to navigate and as an air brake when they are about to land. When they do land, they immediately

scurry around to foil predators that might be following their flight.

That’s a good strategy, because flying squirrels can make a meal for lots of predators – owls and raccoons, and especially domestic cats, who will nab flying squirrels that stray onto the ground or land too low in a tree. Nevertheless, flying squirrels are relatively common in this area where trees are thick enough to form a forest; just not often seen because of their nocturnal habits.

© Can Stock Photo Inc. / EEI_Tony

By Ron Reid

Our area is home to both the Northern and Southern flying squirrel, a night-time visitor that is able to glide up to 150 feet in the air.

We actually have two species possible in this area – northern and southern flying squirrels, with the northern type being noticeably larger. They use tree cavities and bird houses to store nuts for the winter, often snuggling together for warmth.

Now our bird feeder is changed to make sure it is safe, and we can now cherish the warm feeling of a flying squirrel in the hand.

Not a bad way to start 2016!

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

21

2016 is lookin’ good!

By Pat Stead, Lioness

Our Lioness Club, consisting of fourteen happy and enthusiastic members, wish all folks in our community a safe and happy New Year.

The end of 2015 was very busy and many activities were enjoyed by our members and guests, including our November Court Whist event. Please watch for the announcement of the date for our spring Court Whist and luncheon.

On December 3rd, twelve Lioness, along with our indispensable volunteer Phyliss Rumble, enjoyed an excellent lunch and gift giving at our Christmas party at Weirs Restaurant, Casino Rama.

Finally, on December 11th, members from the Washago Lioness, the Washago Rotary Club and the Washago Lions Club enjoyed a Christmas dinner together at the Washago Lions Hall. What a great group of people!

Washago is blessed with not one but three caring and community-minded service clubs. These clubs not only enhance our community but communities around the world.

Best of all - we have a great deal of fun along the way.

For anyone interested in joining the Lioness, I can say that belonging to the Washago Lioness is a marvelous way to feel good by helping out and it’s a good way to meet like-minded new friends.

Coming together is a beginning.

Keeping together is progress.

WORKING TOGETHER IS SUCCESS. NOTE: In error, the December issue of The Villager published that Lion Ken Stead had been in hospital. It was, in fact, Ken Ness who had been hospitalized. He is currently at home recovering very well.

Washago and District Lions Club We sincerely thank the community for their continued support of our Annual ATV & Trailer Draw.

This year’s winner was: Michael Godfrey, Toronto Ontario , Ticket No. 1893

Ramona Winterfest Saturday, Feb. 13, 2016

What a great way to spend Family Day Weekend!

Cross Country Poker Run • Walk, Ski or Snowshoe •

Our hard packed trail is carved through the forest, circling around a large beaver pond. Keep your eyes open for deer, moose and wild turkey tracks. Several large owls have been spotted as well.

Four checkpoints along the trail guarantee you a warm welcome and a chance to draw that winning hand.

Depart the Hall anytime between 10:00 a.m. & 2 p.m. You must be back to the hall by 4:00 p.m. for your hand to be entered for the cash prizes!

Euchre Tournament 1:30 p.m.

Children’s Craft Corner (no extra charge)

Does your organization have an upcoming event?

Email us by the 10th of the month and we’ll publish the details in the next month’s issue.

Silent Auction $5.00 Admission

Covers both the Poker Run and the Euchre Tournament

Delicious hot food available all day! Licensed by LLBO.

thevillagerpress@rogers.com

Take Hwy 169 south from Washago. Turn left on Fairgrounds Rd. We are located 4 km on the left.

If you miss that deadline, we’ll post the information on The Villager’s Facebook page.

For more information, please call Silvia at 705 689 2862 or Eileen at 705 689 6101

22

February 6

Couchiching Jubilee House Annual General Meeting (AGM), 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., ODAS Park, Fairgrounds Rd., Orillia. All are welcome to attend our AGM to learn about the work we have accomplished and our plans for the future.

February 6

Moonlight Snowshoe & Fondue.

6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. A guided night snowshoe followed by a cheese fondue. Snowshoe and headlamp rentals are available. Hardwood Ski and Bike, 402 Old Barrie Rd. West, Oro-Medonte. Call 705-487-3775.

February 9

Pancake Supper - St. Paul’s Anglican Church, corner of County Rd. 169 & Quetton St., Washago. 4:30 p.m.

– 6:30 p.m. Delicious local syrup, sausages, bacon, etc. Freewill offering.

February 11-14 and 18-21

Wait Until Dark at the Orillia Opera House. 7:30 p.m. or Sunday

matinées at 2 p.m. A psychological thriller presented by the Mariposa Arts Theatre Foundation. For times and ticket information call 705-326-8011 or visit www. orilliaoperahouse.ca.

February 13

Valentine’s at the Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market, 4500 Fairgrounds Rd., 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Complimentary carnations, market gift certificates give-aways on the hour. Horse drawn sleigh rides, complementary February 12-14 Orillia Winter Carnival, Couchiching hot drinks and sweet treats Beach Park, Orillia. Shivers ice available. 1-877-216-4664. castle, dog sled races, horse February 13-15 and sleigh rides, ball hockey Ontario Family Fishing Event, license tournament, helicopter rides, adult free fishing throughout Ontario for dance, teen dance, public skating, Canadian residents. Locations and snow sculptures, polar bear dip, complete details at 705-748-6324, winter Olympics, petting zoo, mini- ext. 254 or offe@ofah.org. snowmobile rides, toboggan hill, February 14 pancake breakfast, chili cook-off, 5th Annual Snowmobile Ride for fish pond, midway and food tent.

Dad, 400 Memorial Avenue, Best February 13 Western Mariposa Inn & Conference Ramona Winterfest, all day at the Centre, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Proceeds to Ramona Hall, 2212 Fairgrounds fight prostate cancer. Ride the trails, Rd., Washago, for a fun-filled family food, prizes and more. event. $5/person. Activities include February 15 cross country poker run – walk, ski FREEZ’N – at the Orillia Opera or snowshoe. Euchre Tournament, House. A family day musical. A children’s craft corner, silent whirlwind of song, dance and snow. auction, delicious food, LLBO. Sing-A-Long with Anna, Elsa, Sven and Olaf. Dance with a snowman.

Visit www.orilliaoperahouse.ca or call 705-326-8011.

February 20

Winter Concert at St. Paul’s Centre, 62 Peter St. North, Orillia. The Orillia Wind Ensemble and special guests.

Contemporary and traditional wind ensemble and band music. 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Details and tickets at www.orilliaoperahouse.ca or 705-326-8011.

February 20

Snowshoe Carthew Bay Nature Reserve, 2553 Lakeshore Rd. East, Hawkestone. Explore the inner portion of the reserve which is only accessible in the winter through the Orillia Naturalists Club.

More information by emailing orillianaturalists@gmail.com.

February 27

Polar Rush at Horseshoe Valley Resort, all day. Wake up from your winter slumber. 12+ winter obstacles over 5 km – the snowiest challenge yet. From $45.

Registration required. 705-8352790 or info@horseshoeresort.com.

February 27/28 Snowboard Ontario Provincials at Mt. St. Louis Moonstone, 24 Mount St. Louis Rd., Coldwater, all day.

1-877-835-2112.

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Jubilee House - proud graduates & new campaign

All smiles at a recent graduation ceremony for Couchiching Jubilee House clients, (left) Charlene Taylor, executive director and Tanika Chambers, program coordinator.

In April, 2015 The Villager published an article about Couchiching Jubilee House, an organization that provides transitional programs for women from Orillia and the surrounding townships, ultimately helping to pave their way into new, happier and more productive lives.

In December we attended an event that illustrates the fine work Jubilee House does.

A group of women, including both Jubilee House residents and other clients, graduated in December from an intensive series of life skills training sessions. The workshops they attended have been lifechanging. The women are now better equipped and more determined than ever towards

independence.

The transitions are complex because every Couchiching Jubilee House client comes to the organization homeless, many with children. Sixtyone percent of them have suffered abusive relationships and 45% have educational challenges.

Jubilee House offers these women housing, tailored training, and ongoing support from staff and over 100 volunteers.

Although Jubilee House receives some funding, approximately 75% of their annual financial needs comes from fundraising and 10% from major gifts.

This year, to celebrate the milestone of their 15th Anniversary and to help

achieve their financial goals, the organization has launched a special program – 15 for the 15th Club. Individuals or businesses who donate $150 will be recognized through a special benefit program. Among other things, those benefits include recognition in local newspapers, a charitable tax receipt, and discounted event tickets.

You can support this campaign by calling 705-3264337 or by visiting their website at www.jubileehouse.ca.

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23

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