February 2017
Your best interests are my top priority. Paul Cleary B.B.A.
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Local Canada 150th event. . . . . . . . 3
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Township update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
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Water tower art . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Community events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Township loses respected public servant On December 24th, 2016 former Severn Fire Chief Eric Dowell passed away as a result of ALS, a progressive neurological disease. He was 62 years old. As a child, Eric moved with his family from Toronto to Floral Park. He married Sandra Smallwood in 1974. They had three children and seven grandchildren. Eric is also survived by his mother Dorothy and was predeceased by his father Thomas. Eric began his firefighting career as a volunteer at Station 1 in Severn Township in 1988 and assumed the role of Chief in 2005. The following, an article in memory of Eric, is from one of his colleagues and friends.
A Man of Honour! By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer, Severn Township My husband and I moved to Severn Township from the Toronto area, to a neighbourhood consisting of mostly older, DIY renovated cottages, an area where many residents followed the trend to renew or rebuild their homes. We soon discovered that structure fires were often very close to home. As first time homeowners with a young family, this was of some concern. An overwhelming feeling for the need to help hit us both so when a neighbour approached my husband, Barry to join a volunteer fire department, there was no hesitation. It wasn’t long before this group of firefighters he worked with became an extension of our family and we enjoyed our rural location, unified with social gatherings. At this time, I was a stay at home mom enjoying a simpler way of life for our
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children while my husband maintained his employment in the city and balanced all spare time to his family and fire service. Time and time again, I heard his pager sound for daytime emergencies demanding the need for firefighters. I would listen and worry. Where was the fire? Who needed help? It wasn’t long before thoughts of “I could help” entered my mind. One afternoon, as I was dropping something off for my husband at the fire department, I had occasion to speak to Eric Dowell who was a member of the firefighting team at the time. At the end of our conversation I said, “You know, I have been thinking…”, and bam! The application for township fire service was on the counter before I could finish my sentence - and so my 17-year career in the firefighting profession began. It was Eric who encouraged and helped
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Severn Township’s long-time former Fire Chief, Eric Dowell was diagnosed with ALS in 2014. He died on Christmas Eve 2016. me through the steps of learning about firefighting. He recognized my passion for fire prevention and public education and it was his support and mentoring that has led to the full-time position I now hold as Fire Prevention Officer. It was a long road, taking courses at the Ontario Fire College, battling with self-doubts and dealing with issues that arose being a woman in what used to be a man’s position. But Eric’s positive encouragement showed me the Continued on page 6
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Washago’s Canada 150th Celebration By Ellen Cohen, Committee Chair The committee organizing the July 1st celebrations in Washago met for the fourth time on January 23rd. The committee, in partnership with the Washago Community Centre, consists of nearby residents with a variety of experience in business and events, and representatives from WCC, Lions, Rotary and the township. We’ve even attracted some new residents, including Louise and Cam who moved full-time to Washago from Toronto only 4 months ago. The budget has been reviewed, some adjustments were made, and it has been approved by the committee. To successfully manage everything we have planned, and to pay for the infrastructure such as a sound system, children’s activities, etc., we’ll have to do some fundraising. One of our members is applying for grant money, while many committee members have volunteered to do fundraising. They will present the opportunity to local businesses and to businesses in Orillia who count Washago area residents as some of their best customers. That effort will begin in March. For the safety and comfort of all those who attend the afternoon festivities in the park, off-duty police will be helping to monitor traffic on County Rd. 169 and buses will take people back and forth from the village to the park. The committee continues to move forward on a number of decisions, including the timing of the parade. The Villager reported in December that the parade would likely start earlier this year to accommodate activities at Centennial Park.
However, it has now been determined that the parade will start at its usual time of 2:00 p.m. on Muskoka Street. There will be celebrations and activities on Muskoka Street and the community centre in the morning followed by activities in Centennial Park from 2:30 – 5:30 p.m. The Lions will be hosting events at their hall from morning until late evening. In addition to what we announced in the December Villager, new activities have been added to the program, including a costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for best original costume. You may choose to wear a costume that represents the year 1867 or a well-known era such as the roaring 20’s or the 50’s. Or you may dress up in a costume representing a famous Canadian, such as our first Prime Minister or a famous Canadian entertainer. The contest is open to both adults and children. More details will be published as we get closer to the event. The Rotary Club of Washago has donated cash to pay for prizes. Other new announcements include a display, built by local resident, Doug Taylor, depicting the history of the railroad in Washago. And the Washago Art Club has offered to host an art, or arts and craft activity. The railroad display and art activity will take place in the Washago Community Centre during the morning of July 1st, and will stay open until the very popular annual bike decorating contest begins. Lastly, as part of our marketing initiatives, the committee will set up a web page that will keep residents informed. More on that in the next Villager.
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Exciting opportunities for Volunteers As the Canada 150th Celebration solidifies the activities and timing of events, we are now able to give you some details about our volunteer opportunities – all of them fun and most working along with one of our committee members. Volunteers will be needed to help set up and assist with activities in all three areas of the festivities: Muskoka Street, the community centre and the park. Some of the positions available are parking coordinator; children’s activity assistant; vendor assistance; and event set up and clean up at Centennial Park. For volunteers working on July 1st, we ask that you commit to a minimum of 4 hours. You may be asked to volunteer anytime between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on July 1st and we will do our best to accommodate your shift request. If you have immediate questions about volunteer opportunities, please email thevillagerpress@rogers.com and put ‘VOLUNTEERS’ in the subject line.
STUDENTS – We’ll sign for your volunteer hours. MORE INFORMATION NEXT MONTH
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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
You: Me: You: Me:
Why so optimistic about 2017? What do you think it will bring? I think it will bring flowers. Yes? How come? Because I’m planting flowers.
From the Publisher:
Planting flowers There is so much going on in our community, our country, and around the world. So many initiatives to write about, so much change, and so many opportunities. I feel encouraged to get up in the morning and get involved, to start making choices that will be akin to planting flowers. To do something that will help our country, our community, and me grow. If you are resolved to do the same, one of the things you might consider is participating in some grassroots (no pun intended) politics. All of us have the opportunity to be directly involved in both the federal PC leadership race and the local PC nominations for the Simcoe North riding. All you have to do is buy a party membership ($10 for provincial; $15 for federal). That membership gives you the right to attend meetings and have a vote for the candidate you’d like to see move forward to the next election. If you’re now yawing and ready to turn the page, consider this: You can actually help to shape the country. Because, if you have a membership, and even if your party of choice doesn’t win, you could have a hand in selecting the nominee in another party who has policies that might closely match your priorities. This is grassroots and this is exciting. In Simcoe North, a Progressive Conservative nominee will be chosen this year and will become the candidate to run against our current government in the June 7, 2018 election. If you’re a party
member, you will help choose who that representative will be. It might seem a little early to get involved, but finding out about candidates’ platforms now instead of waiting until the last few days leading up to a nomination meeting or an election, may help you grow personally as well as improve your country or local community the way you’d envision. Outside of politics, consider joining some of your local volunteers who will present us with yet another year of events that we’ve come to expect and always appreciate. The Washago Lions and Rotary clubs are well into their 2017 plans for events and fundraisers for a variety of causes. Churches are setting dates for bazaars, pancake dinners and participation in other Washago celebrations. Nearby Ramona Agricultural Society is ready to present Winterfest, and the volunteer Washago Canada 150th Celebration committee is well on the way with their plans. Every single one of the above mentioned organizations are filled with people, our neighbours and friends, who have never let their destiny be the result of someone else’s choices. They stay involved and work hard for the benefit of their community. They are the examples of people I look to when I think about getting involved, planting metaphoric flowers, and trying to help my community grow. I’m optimistic about 2017 and hope you join me. Plant some flowers.
Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.
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It’s always the big pines that get me By Mark Bisset If I had to pick a favourite tree, it would probably be the eastern white pine. Whenever I stand at the base of one of those massive trunks and look up into its towering crown, I feel something that I can’t quite put into words without risking some odd looks. Wonder is there for sure. The biggest of these beauties are among the most impressive trees left in the region. Men who sought them here made fortunes. Kings reserved these trees for the Royal Navy, and many pines from this region became tall ship masts that helped Brittania rule the waves for generations. Home is mixed in there too. There is no other tree that says “home” to me like the white pine. These trees have a poetry to them that I can’t see in other trees. Their wind-sculpted limbs; the way they move in the wind. So, I guess it’s no surprise that it was the pines that held my attention the first time I visited a 107-acre property just north-east of Washago that was about to become the latest natural gem to come under the
protection of The Couchiching Conservancy. The landscape is classic Canadian Shield, laced with beaver ponds and granite rock outcroppings but, to me, the pines are the real showstoppers. Under the decades-long care of Heather and Alec Adams, these pines and a host of other species of trees and wildlife flourished. And when it came time for them to let go of the property where they had so many happy times, it was important to them that the forest would carry on just being itself. So they turned to the Conservancy, donating the property so that it will flourish for generations to come. It turns out the couple had a good eye for conservation when they bought the property more than 40 years ago. In the years that followed their purchase, two major tracts in the area were officially preserved – to the north, the Kashe Lake Barrens Conservation Reserve; and to the east, the massive Queen Elizabeth II Provincial Park. This newest Conservancy property fronting on Cooper’s Falls Road will help preserve the all-important connectivity
Alec and Heather Adams, centre and left, pause for a photo with family friend Nynka Greer during a snowshoe outing on the Adams property. Alec and Heather Adams recently donated the property to The Couchiching Conservancy to be protected in perpetuity. between these critical natural corridors. “We still love the Shield, the trees and the wildlife and want to see those wonderful white pines protected,” the donors noted. “It is with confidence that we entrust our legacy to the Conservancy.” An official dedication ceremony is planned for later in the spring. The couple will be
recognized for their generous gift at the Conservancy’s Annual General Meeting. The public is invited to help us celebrate this important addition to our permanently protected spaces. The meeting is on Saturday, February 4th at Hawk Ridge Golf Club in Orillia, starting at 2:00 p.m. We welcome the public (non-members) to attend this meeting.
Mark Bisset is the executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy, a non-profit, charitable land trust that protects important natural spaces for future generations. For more information on the Conservancy and its work, go to www.couchichingconserv.ca
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A Man of Honour! Continued from page 1 way and gave me the strength to endure and succeed. Along with others, I encouraged him through the steps he was destined to take, steps that led him to the position of Fire Chief. Our working relationship was respectful and our professional friendship grew stronger through our many meetings, inspections and public education events which he loved to attend. Around the office Eric was the one who always had a smile on his face, a joke to tell or a “smart answer” to put a smile on someone’s face. He took his role as Fire Chief seriously and assumed the responsibility with pride, integrity and loyalty. It was his life. This responsibility wasn’t easy to carry. Eric was an example of strength, pride and honour as he led his life with a noticeable calmness, as a husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and son. Eric did all this with ease. His love of life, his family and the fire service shone bright no matter how stormy life got.
Even after he was diagnosed with ALS and the conversation became limited to gestures and eye-to-eye contact, you could still see the twinkle in his eye. I remember one time during the Coldwater Fall Fair I was standing at my information booth and something ran into me from behind. It was Eric in his wheelchair, his eyes bright with that same mischievous look I had seen for years. We had a short “mind reading” conversation and off he went, blazing a trail through the arena. I have always been amazed by this man. He just braved whatever life threw at him. I am honoured to have met him and share both a working relationship and friendship with him. He was a man that led by example and taught me to be strong, to take what life hands you and to adapt to it. His favorite saying comes to mind, “Suck it up, buttercup”. Eric was man of extreme integrity. He will never be forgotten.
Washago Community Centre LINE DANCING Our Line Dancing classes will resume in April. Plan for the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month, 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. $2.00. Pre-registration is not required. Join the group of participants who are having a great time. Men are welcome. Check our website for new additions to our programming schedule: washagocommunitycentre.com. For all your rental and catering needs, please call the Community Centre at 705-689-6424.
Washago and District Lions Club We sincerely thank the community for their continued support of our Annual ATV & Trailer Draw. The winner of the 2016 draw was James Anderson of Midland, Ontario. Ticket Number 0844
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Canada 150:
free lockage systems; free national parks and historic sites admission By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton
Ramona Winterfest Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017
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.
As you may have heard, as part of Canada’s 150 celebrations this year, Parks Canada is offering the Discovery Pass which provides free admission to the National Parks, Historic Sites, and Marine Conservation Areas Parks operated by Canada for all of 2017. Boaters will also soon be able to get their 2017 Seasonal Lockage Permit, which is also free for 2017, allowing them to access the Parks Canada lockage system, including the Trent-Severn Waterway and Rideau Canal. This is an incredible opportunity to explore a new part of our wonderful country, learn about our rich history, and enjoy the great outdoors. 2017 Discovery Passes can be ordered online at parkscanada.gc.ca/visit 2017 Seasonal Lockage Permits will be available soon on the same site. There are, of course, plenty of other events and activities planned throughout the year to mark Canada’s 150th anniversary, and I encourage you to check out the Canadian Heritage website for a comprehensive list of them, including panCanadian signature projects that will bring Canadians together to celebrate, participate in events and share experiences https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage.html. For those interested in learning more about our country’s rich history, I encourage you to visit Library and Archives Canada for today-in-history vignette series highlighting a significant event that shaped our society - Canada.ca/OnThisDay Let’s celebrate our country’s great achievements over the last 150 years, and look forward to what our bright future holds.
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) Silent Auction $5.00 Admission
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Take Hwy 169 south from Washago. Turn left on Fairgrounds Rd. We are located 4 km on the left. For more information, please call Silvia at 705 689 2862 or Eileen at 705 689 6101
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The federal government has announced free lockage for 2017. Shown above is a century old swing bridge over the Trent-Severn Waterway in Muskoka.
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Fire fighters always need your help By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer, Severn Township The fire hydrants we use today originate back to fire plugs from before the 1800’s when city water mains that transported fresh water were made of hollowed out logs buried beneath the streets. Firefighters would dig down to the water main through the cobbles on the road and bore a hole into the main. The excavation cavity would fill with water and they would draft this water to fight the fire. Once finished, they would seal the water main with a ‘fire plug’. Slowly, new technology was developed. Cast iron taps were installed and extended above street level, allowing firefighters to quickly hook hoses up to the water supply. This process was replaced with cast iron fire hydrants in 1801, a design
invented by Frederick Graff Sr., they were known as the ‘post’ or ‘pillar’ hydrant. This design, also known as a wet-barrel hydrant was later altered to allow for below freezing temperatures. Fire hydrants need to be clear of snow to give firefighters quick access.
Today we are all familiar with the modern fire hydrant. However, even the newest technology of today is not fail-safe. To ensure hydrant efficiency, our municipal crews test hydrants, following a maintenance schedule to ensure
these vitally important pieces of firefighting equipment are in good working order. And, once a hydrant is used, firefighters notify the utility department who ensure the hydrant is drained properly. However, today’s hydrants will only protect us as well as we need if they are kept clear of snow. If you have a hydrant on
or near your property, please help to clear snow away from it. If you are unable to help with snow removal, please call the township office when you notice that a hydrant is inaccessible. Do your part to ensure you are protected. Your family and your neighbours – and your firefighting crew - will appreciate it.
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Oysters Rockefeller By Chef Becky Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.
• 1 dozen fresh Canadian oysters, shucked (ask your local fish monger) • 2 cups coarse sea salt • 1 box frozen chopped spinach, drained • 2 cloves garlic minced • 1 chopped shallot
• 4 rashers bacon, cooked and roughly diced • 1 Tbsp. Pernod • ½ cup grated Parmesan Regiano cheese • Pinch of cayenne pepper • 12 lemon wedges • 1/3 cup Panko • 1 cup Hollandaise sauce
Method: Cook bacon in pan until cooked and crispy, remove with slotted spoon, set aside. • Toss a diced shallot into pan with bacon fat and minced garlic. Cook until golden, remove with slotted spoon set aside. • Combine shallot, garlic, Pernod, cayenne, and spinach in a bowl. Toss well and place evenly on top of shucked oyster in shell. • Spoon 1 Tbsp. Hollandaise on each oyster. Top with diced bacon and Parmesan Regiano cheese and a sprinkle of Panko. • Place under preheated broiler on high until Hollandaise browns and bubbles. Serve immediately with crusty bread. To serve: Pour coarse sea salt evenly on a serving platter and place prepared oysters on top. Share lemon wedges evenly with individual servings. B.J. Roth Realty Ltd. Brokerage* 3380 Muskoka Street, Washago, ON Office: 705-689-3700 *independently owned and operated.
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Winter recreation opportunities for everyone Severn Township has much to offer in recreation programs year ‘round. In fact, each season offers a variety of programs both indoors and out. Some of the programs we currently offer are: Highland dancing is being offered by one of the area’s top instructors. The fling, sword dance and other dances will be introduced. New this winter session is Toddler Time with Parent. The program is dedicated to promoting physical literacy and building social skills by providing a stimulating, fun and safe environment for play. Popular programs such as Little Monkeys and Sport Ninjas are back for the energetic youth to explore fundamental movement in an indoor space using different types of activities to enhance and build confidence. Severn Hoops is a basketball program of fun and good sportsmanship. Back by popular demand is Intro to Theatre offered by the Village of Coldwater Players. Participants learn about basic theatre and finish off with a special performance. Teens are also part of the programming in Severn. A Teen and Adult Conditioning session is an hour of heart racing drills, circuits and games to help you sweat up a storm. It is a chance to meet new friends who also want to live an active lifestyle. In addition to the above, adults and seniors have many options to choose from in various facilities and varying days through the week. Programs to keep everyone have fun, move and get the heart rate up include Step n’ Weight, Ladies Get Your Fit On!, Beautiful Body/Booty/ Amazing ABS. On the quieter side is our array of yoga programs. From the beginner to the more advanced, our programs can make a difference. And Keep Fit for Bones is our year ‘round program offering a full-body workout with stretching and weightbearing cardio moves. As the township moves forward building the new Westshore Recreation Facility, new programs and instructors will be added to the existing complement. All the Severn Township recreation programs are open to anyone, including beyond the Township borders at no extra cost. Most programs are fundamental recreation programs, learning the basics and having fun. For specific program details, visit the Township’s website at: www.townshipofsevern.com.
We’ll be ready for the New Year! By Janet Stead, Lioness Hail to our chief, Lioness president Estelle Ness. Unfortunately, Estelle is off sick right and her entire “pack” of Lioness miss her. We’ll work hard while we await her return. Our Washago Lioness club will return from our winter break in March at which time we’ll be ready to entertain you with popular Court Whist, bazaars and lunches. Wishing you a happy and healthy 2017 from all of your Washago Lioness. See you soon.
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The results are in…
the evening of our Grey Cup event. Jim Anderson from Midland was the lucky winner. He is now the proud owner of a Polaris Sportsman 450 ATV and a Triton aluminum trailer. Congratulations to Jim. Thank-you once again to Paul McNichol of Triton Trailers and Glenn McEachern of Performance Recreation. Your support of our club and our community is greatly appreciated. The Lions Club is now planning our next large event Canada Day. And as we prepare to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, we will also be celebrating the 100th anniversary of Lions Club International. We’ll publish more information as our plans come together. Dougie’s Jam Night: Come out to the Lions Hall on Wednesday, February 18th from 7:00 – 11:00 p.m. Dougie will play some tunes of your choice. Bring your friends!
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Left to right: Paul McNichol of Triton Trailers; Jim Anderson of Midland, the lucky raffle winner; Lion President, Jim Rice; and Glenn McEachern, owner of Performance Recreation. The Lions Club of Washago & District held their annual Grey Cup Party on November 27th. It was a fun night for all. Our chili dinner was delicious and the bar was in full swing. We thank everyone who supported our club by purchasing a ticket for the Grey Cup Raffle. The draw was held at 9:00 p.m. on
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13
Township update LIBRARY NEWS As reported in our December issue, a library membership agreement has been completed between Severn Township and the City of Orillia. All residents of the township can now get an Orillia Library membership free of charge. Recently, mayor and council voted to appoint Councillor Ron Stevens as the Severn representative on the Orillia Library Board. Ron has previously served on this board for a total of 20 years. Ron said, “I am so pleased to be asked to serve on this board on behalf of Severn Township residents, and I’m thrilled that all residents will now have easy access to an extraordinary library.” Severn Township residents are also invited to become a member of the Coldwater library. Ask the staff in Coldwater about access to many thousands of books through the Simcoe County e-book services. All library services mentioned above are free to township residents.
CONTACT INFORMATION Township residents have easy access to their ward representative. If you want to contact your councillor directly, see the list below. Call the township office for information about building permit requirements, road or other maintenance work, bylaws, recreation opportunities, utilities and much more. 705-325-2315 or visit townshipofsevern.com. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Mayor Mike Burkett, mburkett@townshipofsevern.com Deputy Mayor, Judith Cox, jcox@townshipofsevern.com Councillor Mark Taylor, Ward 1, mtaylor@townshipofsevern.com Councillor Jane Dunlop, Ward 2, jdunlop@townshipofsevern.com Councillor John Betsworth, Ward 3, jbetsworth@townshipofsevern.com Councillor Ron Stevens, Ward 4, rstevens@townshipofsevern.com Councillor Don Westcott, Ward 5, dwestcott@townshipofsevern.com That population growth has created some inequalities in ward-to-ward population. That noted inequality will be exacerbated through future residential communities in the southern part of the township. Staff and council will be addressing this report in 2017. Contact your ward representative if you have questions.
BOUNDARY REVIEW Last year, Watson & Associates Economists Ltd. presented the township with an interim report regarding a review of the five township boundaries. Some of the considerations for changes to boundaries include current population and future/imminent growth, with the end result assuring an effective and equitable electoral arrangement. The report notes that, since amalgamation in 1994, the permanent population has increased by 39%, from an estimated 9,950 in 1994 to 13,760 in 2016.
NEW MEETING DATES Council will meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.; Planning & Development Committee meeting is on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.; Corporate Services Committee is on the 4th Wednesday of each month, 9:00 a.m. All residents are welcome to attend these meetings. Call or check the township website before attending in case there are unavoidable changes to the schedule.
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Energy and health care continue to be concerns By Patrick Brown, Simcoe North MPP and Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario
While it may be a new year, it doesn’t mean there is any time for rest. I hit the ground running, and I don’t have any plans on slowing down. I was very happy to kick off 2017 at my New Year’s Levee in Coldwater at the Legion. It was great to catch up with constituents from across our beautiful riding, and to hear a little bit more about their plans for the New Year. Hopefully everyone is doing well keeping their resolutions! It was also a good opportunity to listen to some of the things my constituents want to see changed about how our
government operates – within our community and across the province. For this reason, I made a couple of resolutions of my own that I wanted to share with you. I want to continue standing up for and fighting for affordable electricity and energy prices in Ontario. This is far and away the biggest issue that is raised at my constituency office. Our province is home to the highest and fastest increasing hydro prices in North America. Seniors in our community are struggling every month to afford ever increasing bills. Families are being forced to choose between heating and eating, and businesses are moving to neighbouring states
and provinces because of cheaper electricity. I promise to continue raising this issue during Question Period, and offering my own practical solutions to Ontario’s hydro crisis. Another issue that I hope to continue raising is health care services within our community, particularly the care our local hospitals provide and the availability of long-term care beds. Our hospitals and community health care services are being forced to do more with less. Their budgets are stretched thin, yet they are being expected to care for even more patients. Waitlists are far too long. Hospitals are overcrowded.
Care providers, like doctors and nurses, are overstretched. And, it is our most vulnerable who are paying the price. We must do better. This is an issue that I have been proud to raise in the past, and it is an issue I look forward to continuing to raise when the house resumes. Finally, I want to put even more Simcoe County issues on the government’s radar. I am fortunate to have the ability to directly ask the Premier and members of cabinet questions every day in the Legislature. I want to use this platform to enact some positive change, for our community, and for the province. These are some resolutions that I fully intend on keeping.
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Happy New Year from Washago Seniors Club For the Seniors Club members, 2016 ended on a happy note. On the first Wednesday in December, 2016 over 100 members of our club enjoyed a delicious turkey luncheon at Fern Resort. We were entertained by the fabulous “one –man band” Jamie Williams. He had many of us up dancing to his lively music. He played several different instruments which accompanied his vocal arrangements. He was terrific! During December, a few of our members participated in the Salvation Army Christmas Kettles fundraiser at the Walmart pharmacy entrance. This was our second year and we were happy to assist. At our second meeting in December, the Harmony Sounds, both choir and ukulele band, entertained the group. This group is made up of many of our Washago Seniors, but it is open to anyone who does not belong to the club. If you love to sing or perhaps wish to play the ukulele, come and join the fun! This musical group starts again on Monday, January 30th at 1:00 p.m. at the Washago Community Centre.
And now, 2017 starts. Unfortunately we had to cancel the first meeting in January. The snow came down with a vengeance and it was a wise decision. At the time of writing this article, the club has not had the second meeting. Weather permitting, Tasha Schmidt, from the Community Legal Clinic of Simcoe, will come to discuss many important issues pertinent to the senior life, including wills, Powers of Attorney and more. We were warned this winter would be a snowy challenge and so far Mother Nature has not let us down. However, winter snow is beautiful and to enjoy the seasons is such a privilege. We wish you a wonderful 2017 filled with great health and lots of fun!
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Snow shelters life By Ron Reid
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As I write this, we are experiencing one of those mid-winter weather phenomena when snow is followed by icy rain, creating slippery streets and an icy crust atop the snow. For most wildlife, any hint of mild weather is welcome, but a hard crust that remains creates problems for some and a reprieve for others. A ruffed grouse, for example, is a great catch for a hungry fox or coyote, and in winter its brownish colour provides poor camouflage. But grouse even up the survival odds by diving into soft snow, burying their bodies completely. If you have ever happened on a grouse in snow, you’ll know that the explosion of snow and whirring wings as it erupts is also an effective escape strategy. But when the snow is sealed by an icy crust, times are tough for grouse, good for foxes. Even when winter storms sweep through field and forest and the landscape seems nearly lifeless, there is lots going on below the insulating blanket of snow. As the season progresses, the layers of snow keep the soils below just above freezing, and whole communities of microbes carry on their lives. These microbes break down leaves and other organic matter, in the process creating carbon dioxide and storing the nitrogen that feeds the first flush of green plants in the spring. Larger animals depend on this“subnivean” world as well. Voles, deer mice, and shrews don’t hibernate; rather they travel and feed and interact hidden from our view in the crystalline matrix of tunnels between soil and snow. You can often see this network as the snow melts in the spring and they are exposed to light – a network of passages branching out across your lawn. For these small mammals, normally so vulnerable to predators, an icy crust overhead is a definite bonus. Of course, where favourable conditions help species low in the food chain to build up their populations, nature is sure to provide ways to balance the scales. One local predator that takes advantage of this food source is the ermine, or short-tailed weasel. This species turns pure white in
winter, except for the black tip of its tail. Its narrow body can squeeze into the tunnels of the subnivean zone, where its appetite for small mammals helps keep their populations in check.
Some hawks and owls can see ultraviolet markers in the snow, giving them an edge in knowing where to look for their next meal. A strong crust works against predation by those who come from above – the hawks and owls, and the foxes that leap headfirst into soft snow to snap warm prey out of their tunnels. These predators depend on acute hearing to locate their prey; owls are especially good at this, using large ears of differing shapes under their head feathers to hone in on tiny rustlings at amazing distances. But at least some avian predators have a secret weapon to help keep them fed through long winters as well. It turns out that the urine produced by mice and voles, which they use to mark their trails and territories, absorbs ultraviolet light. And at least some kinds of hawks and owls can see those ultraviolet markers, giving them an edge in knowing where to look. What an amazing system!
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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Don’t miss these upcoming events! By Christopher Carman, Past President Happy New Year to all. THANK-YOU WASHAGO for a great 2016! Your support of our initiatives such as our Wild Game Dinner, Bacon on a Bun, Canoe Raffle, Holiday Hams and Cash Calendars is greatly appreciated. With the proceeds from these events and fundraisers, we have supported local youth sports, local youth scholarships, shelterboxcanada.org (Haiti earthquake relief ), Project Umbrella Burma and the Washago Water Tower project. In keeping with our community spirit and involvement, we invite you to the first two of our 2017 events: KEGS & CORKS: You are officially invited to our 2nd annual Corks and Kegs night at the Washago Community Center on March 25th. We have expanded the refreshments this year and are proud to include craft beer, cider and wine. Our local artisan food lovers will enjoy tasty pub fair from R Cottage Restaurant in Washago. Tickets are $15.00 at the door. This will include three free sample tickets. Additional tickets will be available for $1 each. Make sure to organize a safe ride home. WILD GAME DINNER: On April 22 we are hosting our 12th annual Wild Game Dinner and are excited to announce the return of Head Chef Andy Drechsel. Andy’s most famous wild game dishes have included buttermilk marinated bear with caramelized onion and forest mushrooms; hip of elk with blackcurrant and wild leek sauce; and cherry wood smoked wild boar shoulder. Come early for a drink, enjoy fresh wild appetizers, and take part in our “fishing derby”. Prizes donated by great local businesses. Like us on Facebook (Rotary Club of Washago & Area-Centennial) to get updates on these events and to find out where tickets are available. You are invited to join us as we celebrate the 12th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Washago and Area Centennial. We are hosting a Wine and Cheese on February 23rd at the Washago Community Center from 5-8pm. Come meet your neighbors, socialize, and enjoy some fancy wine and cheeses.
Community events hosted by the Washago Rotary Club offer a night out for local fun-loving residents. Photo submitted by Dan Herbert, Washago Rotary Club.
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Water Tower Project gaining steam Kathy Nicholson, chair of the Friends of the Water Tower is feeling very encouraged these days. While she admits that the goal of $35,000 was pretty lofty, it’s the amount that’s needed if a properly installed and longerlasting piece of art was going to grace the historic Washago water tower, a landmark in our community. After many months of knocking on doors, sending out grant applications, running events and more, on January 14th, Kathy told The Villager that the committee is proud to say that they now have $20,000 in the bank. In addition to donations from individual donors and community partners, the money has come from Washago Rotary Club, $5,000; Casino Rama, $2,500; and $8,000 from the proceeds
of the canoe paddle auction in October. Also, they recently received a $1,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Orillia & Area (CDC). “We are so grateful for the support we’ve received. It makes this project a reality. And our committee will continue to go after grants and support from community partners,” said Kathy. “It is a big project but everyone on our committee is determined to reach our goal and have the project completed in 2017, the year of Canada’s 150th birthday.” To that end, the committee has reached out beyond Washago and area. They have received a commitment from Brewery Bay Food Co., a wellknown restaurant in Orillia who will host a fundraiser on April 19th that will include two sittings for a three course dinner.
“I hope that our community will mark the date on their calendars and come out for this event. Brewery Bay is remarkable and they’ll make this event a lot of fun. They absorb the cost of the dinners and will donate the proceeds to our water tower project, “said Kathy. More details for the Brewery Bay fundraising dinner will be published in the March issue of New artwork will grace the historic Washago water tower in 2017. The Villager. For information about making donations to the Friends of the Water Tower, email Kathy Nicholson at katmike@rogers.com.
Water Tower Project – Call for Artists –
DEADLINE CHANGED TO FEBRUARY 28th The Rotary Club of Washago and Area Centennial, in addition to donating $5,000 to the Friends of the Water Tower, a local fundraising initiative, has agreed to manage a contest that will result in choosing the piece of art that will beautify the historic water tower for years to come. The original deadline, which was announced on posters throughout the community, was February 1st. To enable a more robust selection, Rotary and Friends of the Water Tower have agreed to extend the deadline to February 28th. Artists from Severn Township, Ramara Township and Gravenhurst are eligible to submit a design. Submit your design to Rotary Club of Washago & Area Centennial, P.O. Box 634, Washago, ON L0K 2B0. Entries must be postmarked no later than February 28th, 2017. The dimensions of your submission must be scaled to 51 feet wide by 28 feet high. Consideration should be given to how the art installation will look from a distance. Other than that, says Friends of the Water Tower, be inspired. Residents from those communities are invited to vote for the design of their choice. That vote will take place on March 18th from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Washago Community Centre. Mark this date on your calendar and help to choose what is sure to be a noted art installation in our community.
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New funding program for local businesses With files from Wendy Timpano, General Manager Community Development Corporation
From Left: Lisa Wanamaker, Development Officer, Annual Giving, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation receives a cheque from Best Western employees Derek Mayes, Chef, Bobbie-Jo Robinson, Banquet Event Manager, Andrea Sullivan, Sales Manager, Amber Burrag, Office Manager, and Michelle Weber, General Manager.
Best Western event raises over $4,300 for OSMH Submitted by Carleigh Bodrug, Communications Officer, OSMH Foundation The Orillia Best Western Mariposa Inn and Conference Centre’s first annual New Year’s Eve Hoedown raised more than $4,300 in benefit of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH). A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales, mechanical bull rides and the event’s 50/50 draw contributed to the donation. “We are so grateful to have the support of the Best Western and everyone who attended this fantastic event,” said Nicole McCahon, Executive Director, OSMH Foundation. “It’s great to see the community come together and raise funds to help improve patient care at our hospital.” The event was completely sold out and the funds raised will go towards general needs at the hospital. General Manager of the Orillia Best Western, Michelle Weber, says she was thrilled with the outcome. “The event went off without a hitch all while raising money for a fantastic cause,” said Michelle. “Supporting our hospital and the health of our community is very important to all of us at the Best Western.”
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In mid-January the Community Development Corporation (CDC), serving Orillia and surrounding townships, announced details regarding their new Green Loan Fund. The first portion of the announcement states that eligible businesses can apply for loans of up to $25,000. The CDC offers competitive interest rates, flexible repayment options, no legal or early payout fees, and low application fees. The loan can be paired with Save On Energy incentives. Thanks to Orillia Power’s partnership with Save On Energy, businesses could receive up to $2,000 in incentives for lighting upgrades through the Small Business Lighting Program, or up to 50% of costs on new equipment upgrades through the Retrofit Program. Efficiency upgrades include lighting, heating and cooling pumps, fans, refrigeration and more. The CDC is hosting a ‘Grow Your Business Green’ workshop on February 16th. To learn more about CDC loans, incentives and the workshop, visit the CDC website at oriliacdc.com or contact Susan Stacey, CDC Loans Officer at 705-325-4903, ext. 105.
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February 4 Couchiching Conservancy Annual General Meeting, Hawk Ridge Golf & Country Club, 1151 Hurlwood Lane, Orillia. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Meeting from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Guest speaker is Steve Burrows, an award-winning Canadian mystery writer, journalist and avid birder. All are welcome. February 4 Second annual ‘Sending It for Sarah: Girl’s Day, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Horseshoe Resort. The event is in honour the legacy of Sarah Burke. Skiers of all abilities, even girls who have never strapped on skis or a snowboard. Full details at horseshoeresort.com. February 6 Pasta Lunch, including beverage and dessert 12:00 noon, prepared by the Severn Bridge Women’s Institute. $8. Severn Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge. For Hall Rentals information, call Fern at 705-6874462.
February 11 Orillia Winter Carnival – it’s winterific in Downtown Orillia. The downtown will be transformed into a spectacular winter wonderland complete with midway, massive ice castle and a giant Mount Mississaga ice slide. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Go to the website for more details: downtownorillia.ca. February 11 Moonlight Snowshoe & Fondue at Hardwood Ski and Bike. A 5K snowshoe under the full moon, bonfire, local apple cider, local beer, wine, chocolate fondue and more. Details at hardwoodskiandbike.ca. February 16 Monthly meeting of the Ramara Historical Society, 7:00 p.m. ‘Children in the late 19th & early 20th Century – clothing, books, toys, etc. Guest: Gay Guthrie. Udney Community Centre, Hwy. 12 east from Orillia to 2347 Concession Road 10, Ramara. Light refreshments served. All are welcome.
February 18 Ramona Winterfest, Ramona Hall. A fun-filled family event. A great way to spend Family Day Weekend. Cross Country Poker Run, Euchre Tournament, children’s crafts, silent auction and more! 2212 Fairgrounds Road, Washago. $5 admission. Delicious hot food available. For more information call Silvia at 705-689-2862 or Eileen at 705-689-6101. February 18-20 Ontario Family Fishing Events, a province-wide opportunity for residents to fish Ontario waters license-free (12:01 a.m. Saturday to 11:59 p.m. Monday). Visit ontariofamilyfishing.com. February 20 The Couchiching Conservancy Passport to Nature. Make the most of Family Day and get out on the trails in Copeland Forest from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Bring your own snowshoes or test out a pair from Sojourn. Only 25 spots available for this event. Register at 705-3261620. February 23 Celebrate the 12th Anniversary of the Rotary Club of Washago and Area Centennial – a Wine & Cheese event, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. You
are welcome to come meet your neighbours, socialize and enjoy! February 23-24 Freestyle Skiing Ontario Provincials. Come out and cheer on your favourite athletes. Mt. St. Louis Moonstone, mountstlouis.com or call 1-877-835-2112. February 24-26 Snowboard Ontario Provincials. Mt. St. Louis Moonstone, a family friendly ski resort. Get details by calling 1-877-835-2112 or visit mountstlouis.com. February 28 Pancake Supper from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Pancakes with local syrup, bacon, sausages, coffee, juice, etc. Free will offering. St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Washago – corner of County Rd. 169 and Quetton St.
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m•
EASTER
IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER!
Roasts, Chops, Ground Beef, Chicken & More
Always AAA cuts
Wonderful selection of
Fruits & Vegetables
Fresh Spiral Hams
Fresh to create a great meal!
Bakery orders starting in March. Watch our Facebook page for dates.
Freshly Pressed to each cup!
Lots of chocolate goodness baked Valentine treats!
Fresh Baked Breads Every Morning! Serving only our Premium Muskoka Roastery Coffee. Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Shag Fog, Chai Tea Latte, Green Tea Latte Like us on for updates or Tea – all with fresh bakery item or lunch from our Deli and specials