The Villager 2015 July

Page 1

July 2015

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A grand old theatre . . . . . . . . . page 5 Honourable firefighters . . . . page 10 Proud local chef. . . . . . . . . . . . page 17 Community happenings . . . page 30

Flossie’s garden blooms from spring till fall By Ellen Cohen From spring until fall we can count on the beauty of a succession of blooming flowers and well-tended bushes and shrubs at the edge of Washago on County Rd. 169. Known as the Washago Community Garden, it’s the result of a dream of local resident Flossie Robinson who, in her 80’s, was responsible for the first flowers planted in this garden. Formally established in 1994, twenty-one years later the garden is flourishing. The garden is tended by volunteer members of the Washago Garden Club and Flossie would be proud. Every club member has a keen interest in gardening as well as volunteering and giving back to their community. Carole Sharpe has been involved in the garden for about 15 years. Carole was a very active member of Habitat for Humanity for 10 years and says that volunteering is a very important part of her life.. Joining the Washago Garden Club has meant making new friends and it’s kept her involved in the community. “Our club is a group of people who like to have fun. We share a common interest and aren’t afraid to do hard work. We all do whatever is needed and the end result is beautiful gardens that show off the community,” she says.

Christina Westcott and Louise Buchan, Washago Garden Club members, filling one of the dozen large flower pots that adorn the side of County Rd. 169. In the cold winter months the club members meet to discuss what needs to be repaired or replaced and talk about ideas for new beds or colour schemes for the dozen large flower pots. Once the ground starts to thaw, the meetings revolve around the May plant sale, the most important fundraising initiative of the club, generating revenue that helps to sustain the club and the garden. After the plant sale, it’s time to get busy in the garden. The club spends hours cleaning up and preparing the gardens for the new season after which the search begins for annuals to compliment the perennial gardens. Aesthetic changes from year to year can be made easily through the use of annuals, a task performed by

Christina Westcott from Sebright, and Louise Buchan from Oshawa Whitby. Both are avid gardeners and have their own gardens to tend, but because they spend a fair bit of time in Washago with relatives, they stay very involved with the club. The club is very careful to support local businesses and understands how important partnerships are to any community group. This year they purchased annuals from Fern Forest and Ego’s; the slow release fertilizer is from Home Hardware in Washago; and the huge mound of topsoil from Carrick Construction. Severn Township also contributes to the garden. Last year they

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Come Together. Hey Jude. I Want to Hold Your Hand… By Ellen Cohen Responsible for the British Invasion, the Beatles toured from 1963-1966 and, in that short time, left an indelible mark on the music industry and tens of millions of music lovers all over the world. Various reports say the Beatles sold anywhere from 600 million to 700 million records before they disbanded in 1970. Forty-five years later there is still no individual musician or group that has more top 100 hits. Cities all over the world continue to celebrate their music and Orillia marks its very own 9th annual Beatles Celebration on July 24 and 25. The festival organizers have partnered with the Downtown Orillia Management Board, the organization that represents downtown Orillia businesses, and the result is an all-out celebration of Beatles music with the added fun and festivity of the summer Downtown Orillia Sidewalk Sale. “Quality merchandise will be on sale by 100 downtown merchants, plus we’ll have specialty Beatles and British-themed vendors, great food available at our restaurants and street food vendors and, of course, Beatles music on every block. It will all come together to create a fantastic celebration of summer and The Beatles,” says Lisa Thomson-Roop, manager of the Downtown Orillia Management Board. Small stages on every block will present live Beatles music during the day on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. The main

REPLAY performs on Saturday, July 25th, 3 p.m. at the Orillia Opera House, recalling the nostalgia of early Beatles performances. stage and beer garden, in the parking lot across from Brewery Bay, will have live music on both evenings featuring some of the country’s best Beatles tribute bands. In addition to the street performances, the Orillia Opera House features REPLAY – The Beatles Tribute on Saturday, July 25th at 3:00 p.m. The Octopus’s Garden Beatles Magazine says REPLAY is one of the best they’ve ever seen. “With Liverpudlian accents, on-stage antics, authentic costumes and instruments, REPLAY may be the closest you’ll get to seeing The Beatles.” Tickets to this event may be booked through the Orillia Opera House box office by calling 705-326-8011 or visiting their website at www.orilliaoperahouse.ca. For families with children, there will be many activities to look forward to including the Octopus Garden, crafts, free face

painting, bouncy castle, balloon animals and bubbles. Everyone keep your eyes open for the Rock/Paper/Scissors competition. During the two days of the Orillia Beatles Celebration and Downtown Orillia Sidewalk Sale, streets will be closed - Mississaga St. from Front to Albert, as well as Peter St. Arts District - to all but pedestrians. There are at least 5 parking lots within very easy walking distance and all parking is free. Lisa Thomson-Roop says they are looking for volunteers to help in the beer garden, at the small stages and with the kids’ activities. “We’ll find work for anyone who calls us,” she said. To volunteer to help with the Orillia Beatles Celebration, call the DOMB office at 705-325-3261. For complete Beatles programming information visit www.orilliabeatlescelebration.com.


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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

If you’re looking for that elusive pot of gold, it’s on the east side of Lake Couchiching about 2 kilometres south of Washago. From the Publisher:

Thanks very much! How about those neighbours, friends and acquaintances, those that just seem to be around when you need help? You know some of those people – they just do good things. On one day in mid-June I had the great good fortune to have two experiences with people like this. My first experience: I had a small tree that needed to be taken out. Small as it was and as much as I tried, I couldn’t manage to yank it out. My neighbour, Bill said ‘no problem’ and he showed up with his John Deere tractor. Now, for those of us who know Bill even a little, we know he will take any opportunity to get on his precious John Deere tractor! But the point is he just does good things for neighbours whenever he can. He offers his help. And help he did. He didn’t just take out the tree. He put all the soil back neatly into the empty hole and took the stump away to dispose of it. Left everything neat and tidy and I’m grateful for his help. While Bill was dealing with the tree stump, Matt showed up. Recommended by a local nature expert, he came to help, too. Matt and I walked over to my neighbour Pam’s house. She lives on our neighbourhood canal that has evolved over the years into an interesting wetland that is home to two muskrats, great blue herons, spawning fish, a variety of water fowl and birds, snapping turtles, painted turtles and beautiful flora. We asked Matt to give us some advice about the 12-14 Blanding turtles Pam had spotted on the bank of the canal. How do we keep them safe? Matt gave us a great lesson on turtles in general and talked to us about the ecology of the canal. He offered to help us build two turtle nests and to teach us about their ongoing care. Currently Matt doesn’t formally volunteer for a specific organization but that didn’t matter to him. When I contacted him, he just hopped on his bicycle and rode about 10 kilometres to help us out. This story isn’t some kind of revelation, is it? Everyone has people come in and out of their lives who just do good things, big or small but always important. They make an impact. Thanks Bill and Matt. I must always remember to be more like you. Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.


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Give them a standing ovation! By Ellen Cohen Depending where exactly on the east side of Severn Township you live - The Villager’s primary delivery area - the Gravenhurst Opera House is at most an 18 minute drive. Nobody would encourage you to take that trip more enthusiastically than Krista Storey, manager of arts and culture for the Town of Gravenhurst. Krista Storey, an 8-year resident of Severn Township, makes the drive from her home on Stockdale Road in 16 minutes. Formerly the general manager of the Orillia Opera House, Krista made the career move to Gravenhurst a year ago. She knew when she accepted the position that the opera house was looked upon as a valuable facility but she says the support she and the theatre get from the town officials, staff and the community at large is well beyond her expectations.

Karen Kahle, owner of Fern Forest, tending to flowers in one of her 2,000 square foot greenhouses in the forest.

The spectacular 320-seat theatre, with impeccable acoustics, will take you back 115 years in history.

The theatre is 115 years old and the wooden arched ceiling, spectacular chandeliers and the original tapestry covered seats on black iron frames bolted to the wood floor will take you back to the early 1900’s. Known for its impeccable acoustics and sizable deep stage, there’s not a bad seat in the house. Speaking of seats, Krista points out that every second row has what was known in the theatre business as ‘fat seats’. Not meant to be derogatory, in days gone by this referred to the size of someone’s wallet. The ‘fat seats’ are just about double the size of a regular seat and are set on the aisle. If a theatre goer had enough money in his or her wallet, a ‘fat seat’ could be reserved. Today these seats do not fetch a premium price but they are perfect for a larger person or simply anyone The Gravenhurst Opera House was built in who prefers an aisle seat, fat wallet or not. 1901 at a cost of $12,000. Since then, over 6 Considered the birthplace of Ontario million people have visited. summer theatre, the Gravenhurst Opera

House was the starting point for extraordinary artists including the great Donald Sutherland who made his acting debut starring in The Rainmaker in the 1950’s. Outside of summer theatre, other notable performers who have graced the stage in Gravenhurst are Gordon Lightfoot, Michael Burgess and Graham Green, to name just a few. Krista’s theatre and management experience, along with a deep list of contacts, has resulted in an impressive line-up for the 2015 season with over 100 performances at the Gravenhurst Opera House this year compared to only 27 last year. And, because of Gravenhurst’s easily accessible and attractive location, truly the gateway to Muskoka, Krista has been able to attract producers, directors and performers and the all-important audience from far and wide. “With 320 seats, it’s intimate but still Continued on page 14

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After 14 years in Garfield Dunlop’s constituency office in Orillia, Mary Silk is retiring. Her official retirement date is June 30th and she plans to enjoy what she calls ‘some unstructured time’. Mary said one of the best things about her retirement is that her husband, David is actually looking forward to her being at home. “I know that retirement can be challenging for some, but David and I are both looking forward to sitting on the deck and enjoying some quiet time.” Mary and David have lived in Orillia for over 46 years. They have two sons and one granddaughter. After her little bit of quiet time, finding things to do, she said, won’t be a problem. Garfield Dunlop was first elected in 1999 and Mary started working with him in 2001. As his executive assistant, Mary was the liaison with the public and with provincial ministries. However, she said, without a doubt, looking after Garfield’s schedule was the most challenging. “Garfield is an extremely busy MPP. When he’s not at Queen’s Park, he often has multiple local events day after day, week after week. Keeping track of all of those events, making sure there are no conflicts, helping him prepare - all of that was key to helping Garfield be so involved in the riding he serves,” says Mary. Working with an MPP that is so involved in the community has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her job, Mary said. Often she had to represent Garfield at events and she enjoyed that part of her job immensely. “Because Garfield has been so involved with the community, so have I.” MPP constituency offices are important sources of assistance and information for many. Because of this, the staffing transition at the office will be seamless to constituents. Heather Thompson, who has worked in Garfield Dunlop’s Orillia office as the constituency assistant for 7 years, is the new executive assistant effective June 29th. Heather has been, among other things, responsible for communications and is very familiar with all aspects of her new role. She’ll have all the help she needs from the new constituency assistant, Celeste Anderson. As Mary heads off into the sunset she says she’s enjoyed her life and every minute of working in such a busy environment. She

Mary Silk waves to the large crowd who attended her official retirement party held at Lakehead University on May 28, 2015. jokes as she says, “I want people to miss me a little bit, but not too much! I’m now into a new phase of my life and looking forward to it.” There are many people who may not have had the chance to say good-bye to Mary. If you’d like to wish her well, she’s only at the Orillia constituency office until June 26th but you can send messages through the staff at 705-326-3246. On behalf of the many people who have been helped by Mary at Garfield Dunlop’s office over the past 14 year, The Villager wishes Mary Silk all the very best.

Washago Community Centre Events July 1 • 1:00 pm - Bicycle Decorating Assembly for Judging at 1:30 pm. Join the parade 2 pm. 2:00 pm - Canada Day Parade followed by cake and lemonade at the Centre. 2:30 pm - Pickle Ball Demo on the rink. Anyone interested in playing is asked to join the “expert”. July 11, 12 • Art on the Severn - Come and view the wonderful artwork displayed, 10 am - 4 pm. July 21 • Passport Clinic, held by Bruce Stanton from 5 pm - 8 pm. Bring your required documentation to apply FOR or renew your passport. September 17 • Our annual Fashion Show, 7 pm. Tickets will be ready mid-July. Mark this date on your calendar.


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Art on the Severn By Mike Turner Picture making will be the focus this year at the popular Art on the Severn show and sale at the Washago Community Centre on Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12, from 10 am to 4 pm each day. Several talented landscape artists and photographers will be showing their work as will some students from local schools. The majority of the images depict the North Simcoe and South Muskoka landscape, architecture and residents. Featured artist, Beverly Post Schmeler, watched her mother and grandmother painting in oils and knew as a child that she wanted to be a painter. Not until 2011 did she begin in earnest, however. Starting with watercolour, she learned that the act of creating results in moments of peace. Beverly teaches beginner palette knife painting and has participated in numerous workshops and short courses. She is a member of Peter Street Fine Arts Gallery in Orillia.

Raffle tickets will be available at the event for this painting, “Violas”, a 12” x 16” watercolour by Kathy Nicholson.

Another participant this year is photographer Deb Halbot. A visit to her Facebook page at “Through My Eyes Photography” will reveal her depictions of local subject matter. Included is a notably enhanced shot of the Washago railway bridge on a dull day. The photo has been made almost surreal by the use of digital technology. Liz Stenson, also a photographer, will be at the show. Liz uses the magic of Photoshop and Corel Painter to turn photos into images far removed from the original. Art on the Severn should be a must-see for anyone interested in the field of art photography, either as a consumer or an aspiring practitioner. Admission to the show is by voluntary donation. There will also a lottery with the chance to win valuable art by well-known local painters. Refreshments will be available.

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8 Flossie’s garden blooms from spring till fall Continued from page 1 paid for the new, large Washago Garden sign, money that came from the township beautification fund. Two years ago the Robinson family donated a bench in memory of the garden founder, Flossie Robinson. The big planting weekend this year was on May 23rd. Club members showed up lugging wheelbarrows, shovels, trowels, pruners and gloves and they quickly got to work digging, weeding and raking, splitting of perennials where needed, trimming and pruning of shrubs and bushes, and filling the dozen planters that are placed along the roadside. On this weekend, club members also addressed some structural and water supply issues and generally made sure that the gardens were in perfect shape. Once the spring planting weekend is finished, regular care

is required to keep the gardens healthy and beautiful, tasks such as cleaning, weeding and deadheading. Club member Cathy Westcott of Washago maintains a work schedule, one that is flexible and mindful of members’ other commitments. Cathy says club members love to go and putter in the garden and there’s usually no problem with keeping up with the work required. As rewarded as each of the members feel once the garden is in full bloom, the physical work for some is becoming more and more difficult. As a result, although they have about 20 members, the Washago Garden Club finds itself in a similar position to many other volunteer groups – they need more members. “We’d be happy to attract some physically fit 30, 40 or 50-somethings to our club,” says Don Westcott, a club member

since 2010. “None of the older members are talking about leaving the club but if we could add some younger and stronger members, it would help to take the load off everyone.” New members don’t need to have gardening experience. There’s plenty of help from the current membership and, in fact, new members would have the opportunity to be mentored by some of the best and most experienced gardeners in the

area. Time requirements include a monthly meeting during the off-season, work on the spring planting and helping to maintain the garden during peak growing season. Club members pay a nominal membership fee to help offset some of the garden costs. Anyone interested in joining the club and helping to keep this garden as beautiful as Flossie Robinson envisioned, please call Boyd Smith at 705-689-4771.

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How do you save a piece of wilderness? By Mark Bisset The concept of a land trust came to this region in the early 1990s when a handful of motivated people were looking for new ways to preserve wilderness areas. Traditionally, society had relied on governments to set aside parks and reserves, but with shifting

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political priorities and scarce financial resources, that system was increasingly inadequate. The group that formed The Couchiching Conservancy wanted to take matters into their own hands. Forming a non-profit, non-government charity, they began to collect parcels of land. These patches of wilderness are held in trust for the public and in many cases they are available for public use

through walking trails. These natural areas provide habitat for a host of animals and plants that are now under extreme human pressure in central Ontario. A least 16 local species are in danger of disappearing altogether. But how does the Conservancy acquire the land? There are several ways of doing it. Sometimes property is donated directly to the Conservancy by owners who want their land to be left as wilderness long after they are gone. There are big tax advantages to donating pieces of wilderness to charity, and such philanthropists can continue to enjoy their property in its natural state once the donation is made. Grant’s Woods on Division Road near Orillia was donated by Bill Grant in memory of his brother Jack. It now serves as the headquarters of The

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Couchiching Conservancy and offers close to five kilometers of hiking trails for public use. Sometimes a full donation is not practical, so landowners make a part donation of the property, receiving tax benefits. The Conservancy raises the remainder of the market value price of the property to complete the transfer through partners and fundraising campaigns. The third way the Conservancy protects land is through conservation easements. An easement is an agreement negotiated with the landowner and placed on the title of the property. Working together, the Conservancy and the owner set out a series of restrictions for uses on the property meant to preserve its natural features. But ownership of the property remains with the donor, and Continued on page 25

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Honour, Courage, Commitment By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer

If I were to give a brief summary of the Fire Service it would be this: It is family. It is men and women who train and work hard together to provide a service for their community. It is

integrity, honesty and respect. At a recent family funeral I noticed a young man wearing a jacket with a Maltese cross symbol. During the celebration of life, I caught up with him, and, as we exchanged pleasantries, our fire departments were mentioned. As he spoke, the pride and honour shone in his

eyes. Clearly, this is a dedicated young man who is proud to serve. This is not uncommon; the camaraderie of the fire service provides a strong connection no matter where you go. I remember, during my initial interview to join the fire department, I was asked, “Why do you want to join the fire service?” My answer was simply “to help people, to teach the children about fire safety”. I have spent 12 years active on suppression and a total of 15 years so far doing just as I had said in the interview. As Fire Prevention officer, I believe in the fire service, and feel the same dedication expressed by the young man that I met at the funeral. Firefighters take an oath of service to save lives, prevent injury, and protect property. When a firefighter makes this pledge to serve, they take on the

responsibilities associated with it. Being a part of the fire service means that their behaviour is held to a high standard, both on and off the job. A firefighter also needs to possess a variety of skills, talents, and personal traits to ensure that they properly and respectfully represent the department and the profession. This is what individuals in the fire service shall live by. The fire service is a place where friendships grow and fellowships form. With good times, occasional pains, disagreements and the odd dysfunction, a department’s pride develops, while strengthening the “family” bond. Becoming aware, open, and accepting of each other’s abilities, values, attitudes and opinions is the groundwork for trust and respect. This is essential when you work closely

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11 in a stressful environment, when the team must face both successful rescues and, sometimes, failures and when one is expected to protect the safety of one another. Sharing expertise and being open to learn new or different practices and techniques are core values. It takes someone special to do this job - those who understand and appreciate these values. Severn Fire & Emergency Services is a composite department, combining a small full-time staff complement relying to a great extent upon the dedication of individuals prepared to sacrifice their time to support our community in times of need. The expectations for firefighters serving as a volunteer may be considered more demanding as all firefighters are required to be trained and capable of meeting a broad skill set. The commitment to being on-call

and available for an emergency response may disrupt personal life and events. This is part of the commitment and it is accepted and expected. In my years with the department I have learned that working in the interest of public safety is the part of my job of which I am most proud. I would encourage individuals who feel that they can make this commitment to consider entering the fire service and follow the inspiration of the young man that I had met. The fire service is a most exhilarating and rewarding profession that offers continuous opportunities for education and personal improvement. Not to take anything away from the fulltime career service so essential to larger urban centres, I believe this to be especially true and vital to smaller communities that need to rely upon the volunteer firefighter.

There are eight essential traits of a firefighter, represented in the Maltese cross utilized by the Fire Service and displayed on fire apparatus, uniforms, and flags around the world. These traits are: Observation: To be aware, especially during an emergency scene where hidden hazards exist. This involves the ability to size-up of incidents, monitor surroundings and to be prepared for changes. Dexterity: To be adaptable, adjusting to changes and conditions, being flexible. Sympathy: To treat others tenderly and respectfully, remembering this person is having their worst day. Tact: To speak professionally as we interact with anyone on or off the job. Using honesty and sincerity will assist in getting our safety messages across. This also includes being professional with each other. Explicitness: To communicate clearly. To get the message across. Gallantry: To be there when duty calls and to accept the task assigned. To overcome any challenges and to display courage in spite of fear. Perseverance: To never give up on the community or the team. Loyalty: To commit to the fire service the responsibilities to the community the department and to your fellow firefighter and being able to depend on each other. To believe in teamwork.

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Washago Lions have been very busy preparing for Canada Day. Our theme is “COUNTRY CANADA DAY” and we hope to see everyone in the neighbourhood join us for our festivities. Our traditional and popular pancake breakfast will take place in the morning beginning at 8 a.m. at the Lions Hall. In the afternoon, we’ll serve burgers, hot dogs and sausage on a bun and soft drinks and have live entertainment for your enjoyment, as well as a patio bar serving cold beer and coolers. See our ad in this issue of The Villager for details. Free draw tickets for a bicycle will be available for the kids at the Lions Hall and the draw will

take place at 3 p.m. in the hall. The Lioness Club have a 50/50 draw. You can also buy your Grey Cup Raffle tickets for the Polaris ATV complete with a Triton Trailer, which will be on display at the hall. The Washago and District Lions Club is reaching the end of their fiscal year on June 30th, 2015. We’ll soon swear in the new executive positions and start a new fiscal year of many projects, some already in the making. Our Washago Lions are now planning an Octoberfest. Details to be announced. Dougie’s Jams will start up again Wednesday, September 16th at the Washago Lions Hall.

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Local author receives federal and provincial grants Local author Steve Stanton of Washago has received financial support for a proposed science fiction novel. The Canada Council for the Arts and the Ontario Arts Council funding totals $25,500 for Steve Stanton’s project. Steve has worked for 25 years advancing literature in Canada as a publisher, editor, author and

administrator, including three years as President of Canada’s national association of science fiction and fantasy authors. His novels include The Bloodlight Chronicles trilogy, Reconciliation (2010), Retribution (2011) and Redemption (2012), as well as a fourth novel, Freenet which is coming soon to a library near you.

Local author Steve Stanton, middle, receives grant from MP Bruce Stanton, left, and MPP Garfield Dunlop, far right.

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The proposed manuscript, with the working title Going Green, will be Steve’s fifth published novel when completed. His short stories have been published in sixteen countries in a dozen languages,

including translations into Greek, Hebrew, French, Spanish, Italian, Finnish, Hungarian, Czech and Romanian. More information is available online at stevestanton.ca.

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14 Give them a standing ovation! Continued from page 5

Krista Storey, Severn Township resident and former general manager of the Orillia Opera House, celebrates her 1st anniversary as manager of arts & culture for the Town of Gravenhurst.

sizable,” says Krista Storey. “The wooden structure offers perfect acoustics which is very important to the trade and, of course, the audience. Everyone loves this theatre.” There is something very unique about the Gravenhurst Opera House. It’s not just a local theatre. It is the community’s centre, the hub. Organizations and service clubs such as Rotary and Probus rent the facility’s Trillium Court for their meetings. Trillium Court has a licensed bar and can accommodate 80 for a sit-down event or 150 for a stand-up reception. The Opera House also serves as the town’s movie theatre with, for example, the screening of movies for the Gravenhurst Fine Film Association or movies shown during spring break. There is also both an educational component with in-theatre school programming, and a deep community commitment

from the Muskoka Concert Association which has been performing at the Opera House for 60 years. Krista is more than eager to restore, rejuvenate or create new community partnerships. “My goal is to work closely with all appropriate community partners to ensure that our facility remains the town’s community hub,” she says. Asked what she would say to anyone who hasn’t had the pleasure of seeing a performance at the Gravenhurst Opera House, she said, “I would tell Severn residents to do themselves a

favour and visit the Gravenhurst Opera House. It’s a grand old building with a beautiful theatre. Bring your family, your friends, your summer guests. They’ll love being part of a standing ovation!” Fly Me To The Moon plays until July 17th, followed by I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!, which is scheduled for July 21-August 22. At the time of publishing, both plays have matinee performances available. Complete details on their summer season are published on the Opera House website, www.GravenhurstOperaHouse. com or call 1-888-495-8888.

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and events: • Each year we send promising local youth on Rotary Leadership Youth Awards weekends where they develop the skills and confidence to become future leaders. This year we sent four youth to the event. • Our club presents a Service Above Self award to a grade 8 graduate from each of our local schools in recognition of young people who exemplify Rotary

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values of taking care of others. We also sponsor children’s events at the Ramona and Severn fall fairs such as spelling bees and art competitions. This year we held our Wild Game Dinner at Camp Couchiching so that a part of our proceeds would support kids going to camp. Win a Kayak This year, we are selling raffle tickets to win a Riot Edge kayak generously donated by the Paddle Shack. Tickets are $5 and can be bought at Canoe, Jax Bootery, the Atherley Beer Store or watch for us outside the Washago LCBO starting July 10th. The draw will be held September 7th. Come On Out If you’re interested in having a positive impact on the local and international community and having a lot of fun with

like-minded individuals then come to a meeting and see what we are all about, We meet at 5-6:30 on Thursdays at the Washago Community Centre where we have a drink or coffee and a snack, socialize, do some business and hear an interesting guest speaker. You’re welcome!

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16 Washago Community Centre

Plan your summer recreation – register now By Pat Harwood, Recreation coordinator Pickleball is played at the Bass Lake Woodlands Park on Mondays and Tuesdays and at the Coldwater Community Centre on Thursdays and Fridays. Pre-registration is required. Come out and join in on this fast growing sport. Kayak and paddle board instruction will take place every Wednesday morning at Washago Centennial Park for the eight weeks of summer. If you haven’t pre-registered, there may still be room for you. Pre-registration is required and only four (4) participants will be in each class. And it’s not too soon to start thinking about some of our fall programs as space will be limited. New this fall will be family yoga and drumming

and other programs to be announced. Public docks: Severn Township will be focused on local public docks this year and next. The Washago dock at the foot of Quetton Street needs to be replaced and estimates for its removal and replacement are being secured. A new dock will be included in the 2016 budget deliberations. The public dock in Coldwater will be repaired while an engineer’s report will be completed to determine its life span. Other dock assessments will be completed in 2016 with the entire dock system put on a repair/replacement plan for the future. Instructors are needed for the fall in the Cumberland Beach area. All applicants must have a

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1st place honours for Chef Becky’s student By Ellen Cohen Many of us, from Gravenhurst to Orillia asked the class for recipe submissions, and beyond, are familiar with Chef Becky Karen jumped at the chance. With some help from Chef Becky getting Lennerton and her company, Black River Food Company. If you live in the Washago the photography just right, Karen submitted area, you may have noticed her bright green her original recipe. Not long after, she SUV with her logo on the door. Or maybe and one of her classmates made it to an you’ve enjoyed her carefully prepared OGVG sponsored semi-final competition in food at a festival or event or a farmers’ Brampton. Karen won this competition and market, served from her Rollin’ on the River moved along to a huge event, the Second Harvest Taste of Toronto, the largest annual food truck. fundraising event What you may not for that food bank. know is that Chef Fifty top chefs Becky also teaches donate their time culinary classes at and participate in the Barrie Liaison the event. College and today Karen was given she is feeling a her own table, next great deal of pride to the one other about this part of finalist in the OGVG her life. One of her competition. “I students, Karen was nervous and Lewis, grabbed 1ST excited because place honours at a there were so many large and important top chefs in the competition in room and they were Toronto. tasting my recipe, Karen Lewis lives Zesty Zen soup,” and works full-time said Karen. in Barrie. She studies Most importantly, part-time at Barrie the judges tasted Liaison College, Karen’s soup and taking cooking level 1. She’s always had a Zesty Zen soup, an original recipe created were so impressed passion for cooking by Karen Lewis, a student of local chef they chose Karen’s recipe as the and her studies Becky Lennerton. winner. “I won and I have taught her the theory and practical nuances of cooking. still can’t believe it,” she said. “I’ve only been When a representative from Ontario taking classes since March but I like to think Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG) that my passion for food came through in

Karen Lewis, a student of local chef, Becky Lennerton, shown at the Second Harvest Taste of Toronto in June. the recipe I created.” The entire event was fast-paced and exciting for Karen. After she was announced as the winner, she was asked to stay in town. She was put up at a hotel and on the Monday morning after the event, she did a live interview on CHCH TV. Karen is very proud of her accomplishment and grateful for all of direction and encouragement from Chef Becky. As for Chef Becky, she couldn’t be prouder.

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18

King of the River By Ron Reid

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Anyone who spends much time along local rivers and lakeshores is likely to be familiar with the rattling call of a Belted Kingfisher. This familiar bird nests in every part of Ontario, but it is especially common along the southern edge of the Canadian Shield from Washago eastwards, taking advantage of numerous lakes and wetlands. If you visit the tropics, you can come across a half-dozen types of colourful kingfishers, but in Ontario there is only one member of the family. While a Belted Kingfisher is less flashy than its tropical cousins, it does have a couple of interesting quirks. Even a quick glance will reveal that the blue-grey back and crest of a kingfisher is set off by a white neck band and tummy. But half of the Ontario kingfishers also have a bright russet band across its chest, and in this case the more colourful birds are the females. That kind of role reversal is very rare in the bird world; the only other Ontario birds with more brightly coloured females are a small group of shorebirds called Phaleropes. Belted Kingfishers are also unusual in their nesting habits, given that their nests are underground. Each spring, a pair will excavate a nest tunnel into a sandy bank with a cozy chamber at the end to lay their eggs and raise their young. The tunnel entrance is about four inches across, usually oval-shaped, and often with a pair of grooves at the bottom made by the birds’ feet as they arrive. Even though kingfishers may fly as much as 8 kilometers from their feeding area to their nest site, the lack of suitable sandy banks likely explains why they are less common in the granite barren areas west of Washago. The birds must face similar problems on the shallow-soil areas of the Carden Alvar, but they can be very determined in their quest to nest. They are well-known to adapt to disturbed areas such as gravel pits, and a farmer friend reports that they also burrowed into the side of his manure pile to create a nice warm stinky nest!

As their name suggests, kingfishers survive mainly on small fish. Their feeding method is a classic ambush – sit motionless on an overhanging branch, watch the water intently for an unwary school of minnows, and then dive beak-first to grab a fish. They must miss frequently, but whenever I watch their hunting routine, they seem to be successful most of the time.

© Can Stock Photo Inc. / stevebyland

A female Belted Kingfisher is more colourful than the male, a rare role reversal in the bird world. Nearly all of our kingfishers retreat to the U.S. or Central America for the winter, but a few hardy individuals stick around as long as there are patches of open water with fish available. Overall, Belted Kingfisher populations are declining in Ontario, especially in areas where intensive farming turns streams into drainage ditches. But in The Land Between corridor where we live, their numbers are still strong, and the rattle of a Kingfisher in flight will hopefully be a familiar sound for many summers to come.

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.


19

ZestyZenZoup Submitted by: Karen-Lynn Lewis

Ingredients:

The Zen

• • • • • •

2 English cucumbers 1 lime, juice and zest ½ cup chopped cilantro ¼ cup dill 1 cup buttermilk ½ cup goat cheese such as feta • salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients:

Directions:

Peel cucumbers and cut in half lengthwise, scrape out seeds. Chop and place in a blender or food processor with lime juice and zest, cilantro and dill and the buttermilk and goat cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Chill

The Zesty

• olive oil • 2 red sweet bell peppers • 3-4 tomatoes-on-the-vine, peeled, seeded and chopped • ½ onion chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 ½ tsp fresh or dried thyme • 1 tsp paprika • 1/8 tsp white sugar • 4 cups chicken broth • salt and pepper-to taste • 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper • 5-6 drops of Chipotle tabasco sauce

Directions:

Rub olive oil on the peppers and put them under the broiler or on a BBQ to blacken, turn to blacken all sides; when done put in a paper bag and seal for 15 min, then peel, core and seed. Chop peppers. Heat olive oil over medium heat, add onions and garlic and cook until soft but not brown. Stir in tomatoes, peppers, thyme, paprika and sugar. Cook over med-low heat until all the tomato juices have evaporated (20-25 min). Stir in chicken broth, salt and pepper, cayenne pepper and tabasco sauce. Bring to a boil then simmer, covered for 20 min. Cool a little and then puree in a blender or food processor. Chill.

To Serve:

Ladle or pour the chilled Zesty and Zen portions of the soup into a bowl or glass at the same time (this gives the two colour pattern) garnish with chives or cilantro, serve cold.

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20

The little village of Washago comes to life By Jean Stephens, President, Washago Lioness Club

I had a call recently from Lioness Carol telling me about the May long week-end. The town was just ‘a hopping’ with people. They were in and out of new and established stores.

It is amazing what a difference it makes when the cottagers return. Welcome back! Some of these same cottagers will one day take up permanent residence in our area and we will be happy when they do.

On June 6th we had the opportunity to congratulate the Washago Lions on their 65th Anniversary. I have already done a history on the club. What they have accomplished and given back to the community is amazing. Job well done. The Lioness celebrate their 35th Anniversary this year. Recently I had the opportunity to go through old records and would you believe we have given

back approximately $150,000 in this period of time. Without the folks of Washago supporting us this would not have been possible. Thank you one and all. This month’s hint: To get rid of pesky bugs on your plants boil rhubarb leaves in water. Cool and then pour over your plants. Remember rhubarb leaves are poisonous. Happy Canada Day!

At the Lions 65th anniversary celebration, Washago Lions Club president, Garnet Langille accepts congratulations from Jean Stephens, president of Washago Lioness Club.

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Local athlete lights community 2015 Pan Am Games cauldron On June 8th, Walter Henry of Orillia had the honour of being one of the area’s representatives for the 2015 Pan Am Games. He was given the honour to light the community cauldron. The torch hand-off to Walter took place near the entrance to Couchiching Beach Park. With a smile as big as the event itself, Walter ran with the torch, through the park, through the crowd shouting ‘Walter. Walter.

Walter’, and onto the large OLG stage where he touched the torch to the cauldron. With 400 fights under his belt and only 18 losses, Walter is a two-time Olympic competitor. In 1967, he brought home the first Pan Am Games Canadian medal for boxing. On April 25, 2015, he was chosen to be one of five athletes and coaches inducted into Orillia’s inaugural Sports Hall of Fame.

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23

Celebrate Canada’s birthday and our history By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton

Canada Day is a celebration of all that is great about our country – it honours our past, our present and our future. I am proud to celebrate Canada’s rich history, diverse natural and cultural heritage, strong values and many accomplishments. Canada’s history is filled with notable figures whose legacy has enriched the Canadian and global community. For instance, Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of the telephone changed the way the world communicates forever. Harriet Tubman’s courage

and determination helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom in Canada along the Underground Railroad. Nellie McClung’s leadership paved the way for equality for women in Canada. Terry Fox’s inspiring cross-Canada run continues to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Canada’s men and women in uniform have courageously fought tyranny and evil around the world throughout our history. And, every day, hard-working and generous Canadians from coast to coast to coast contribute to the Canadian experience. The Fathers of Confederation founded our great country with a vision for a united and prosperous Canada, and 148 years later Canada stands on the

world stage as a nation strong and free. And our Government is committed to building a stronger and more prosperous Canada for years to come. That’s why we are helping create jobs and opportunities for all Canadians, while keeping taxes low and balancing the budget. We are helping make our streets and communities safer. We are making historic infrastructure investments in communities across Canada. We are conserving Canada’s rich natural beauty. And, we are protecting and promoting Canadian values of freedom, democracy and the rule of law in Canada and abroad. Canada’s future is bright, and on July 1st, I am proud, to stand will all of you across Simcoe

North, to celebrate Canada – the best country in the world. Happy Canada Day! **** I would also like to remind you that if you need to obtain a passport, or renew your expired or about-to-expire passport, please plan to attend my passport clinic on Tuesday July 21st from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Washago Community Centre, 4361 Hamilton Street. Staff and volunteers will be on site to answer your questions and review your completed application for submission to Passport Canada. There will also be a photographer on-site for photos at a cost of $22. If you have any questions please contact my Orillia constituency office at (705) 327-0513.

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25 How do you save a piece of wilderness? Continued from page 9 when the property is sold, the restrictions of the agreement remain active. The market value of the property is reduced when an easement is placed on the title, and this is where the tax advantage kicks in for the owner. The market value is calculated before the easement is placed on the property, and after the easement is in place. The owner then receives a tax credit for the difference. For

instance, if a property is worth $100,000 before the easement is placed on it and $80,000 once the easement is on the title, the owner receives a tax credit for $20,000. There are further tax advantages once the property is protected. The Conservancy then has the responsibility of working with the landowner to ensure the restrictions are respected. This option is becoming increasingly popular among landowners who care about The Thomas C. Agnew Nature reserve was protected through part conservation. The Couchiching donation and part purchase. There are numerous ways to protect important natural lands. From left to right are conservancy volunteers Noella Storry, Lisa Neville and donors Joan Berndt and Susan Campbell.

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MPP Dunlop questioning the carbon tax By MPP Garfield Dunlop

I have signatures frustrated North for

started collecting from overtaxed and residents of Simcoe a petition aimed at

stopping the latest Liberal tax grab. The Liberal government has confirmed it would introduce a carbon tax in the Spring Budget, despite the Premier ruling it out last June. Our community’s families and businesses can’t afford another tax. My Caucus colleagues and I

will be presenting the Legislature with petitions from across the province so the Liberals won’t be able to ignore the voice of Ontario residents from north to south and west to east. A carbon tax will raise the price of almost everything, not just gas and home heating. Prices for all consumer goods will go up as production and transportation costs increase. Everyone’s cost of living will become much more expensive.

Does your organization have an upcoming event?

4338 Hamilton St. C-1 zoning, 330’ 7950 King’s River Rd. Vacant, 2-acre, on Hamilton St., Washago. Great recreational lot with direct access to the opportunity to invest in this thriving village. Black River. MLS#587020144. $45,000. MLS#586070143. $139,000.

Email us by the 10th of the month and we’ll publish the details in the next month’s issue. If you miss that deadline, we’ll post the information on The Villager’s Facebook page. thevillagerpress@rogers.com

Liberal history shows we can’t believe their carbon tax will accomplish any objective other than picking everyone’s pockets. They brought in a costly health premium tax, but health services are being cut across Ontario. They spent $2 billion on smart meters that didn’t result in conserving energy. The Liberals want to sneak in a new tax while gas prices are low to pay for their scandals and reckless overspending. The Liberals are just desperate to take more of your money and will use any excuse to justify feeding their spending addiction. You may sign this petition at either my Midland or Orillia Constituency offices. Event: Please circle July 11 on your calendar. That is the date of my Annual Constituency Family Picnic. The event runs from 3 until 6 p.m. at the Coldwater Curling Club. I hope to see you there.

7726 Meadow Crescent. Building lot, joint ownership of adjacent parkland allows 2381 Con D-E, Ramara. Investment, 248 for direct access to Lake Couchiching. acres, designated as major aggregate MLS#586090472. $62,000. potential. MLS#587030026. $913,000.

106 Mississaga Street East Orillia, Ontario L3V 1V7 705 325 1455 www.perfecttiming.ca

Try our Rainbow Trout or Blackened Pickerel You Chill ~ We Grill

Specialty drafts on tap!

Open daily from 11 a.m.

Fittons West Plaza | 425 West St. N., Orillia | 705-329-0303 | lakecountrygrill.com


Community Centre adds a wall of art By Ellen Cohen The Washago Community Centre has very generously offered wall space to the Washago Art Club. A show that includes dozens of paintings by local artists is currently hanging on the back wall of the main hall. The members of the art club meet monthly under the

direction of local well-known professional artist, Doug Cooper who guides his students through a variety of techniques using various mediums, including acrylics and water colours. Now, because of the community centre, they have somewhere to hang their work. A sample of art that’s available Cheryl Lawder, a club Washago Community Centre. member, said the support and encouragement from the club and from Doug Cooper helps with what can be intimidating hanging and pricing one’s own art. “It’s our first show and we’re very proud of it,” she added. The current art show will be displayed until July 1st and a new show will be hung after Labour Day. “The club will take the art down during July and August because we have children’s day

27

to view and to purchase at the camp in the main hall. Nobody wants an errant ball damaging a painting,” said Rose Petit, the community centre hall manager. Local residents and visitors to the area are encouraged to come and view the wall of art. Rose said, “If you’re coming to the village for Canada Day celebrations, the centre will be open on July 1st and the art will still be displayed.


28 Like us

and WIN!

facebook.com/TheVillagerCommunityNews Find our most recent electronic version of The Villager on Facebook as well as archived copies and updates on local news and events. If you have an event to publicize after we’ve printed our magazine, email us at thevillagerpress@rogers.com & we’ll post it on our Facebook page.

LIKE US & WIN: Each month two of our Facebook friends will win a $25 gift certificate from one of our local merchants. Winners will be notified through a private message on their FB page.

Saturday, July 11

Saturday, July 11

2983 Whelan Way, Washago 7592 East River Road, Washago Moving sale from 8:00 am to 4:00 Moving/downsizing sale from pm. Must sell. Everything must 8:00 am until 2:00 pm. Tools, go. Furniture, tools, odds and household items, books, clothes, ends, drafting table, display unit chairs, tables, camping gear and and much more. much more. PLACE YOUR FREE GARAGE SALE AD IN THE VILLAGER AUGUST ISSUE DEADLINE: Email us by July 10th thevillagerpress@rogers.com Maximum 25 words • include address, date, time, and a brief description of goods for sale.

• Good Stock of Beautiful Perennials Available • NEW STOCK!

FlOWEriNg and NaTivE

ShrubS & TrEES Visit our beautiful gardens & greenhouses in the forest, only minutes off Highway 11. 4012 Cambrian Rd., Washago/Severn Bridge • www.fernforest.ca • 705-689-8230

8 Residential Lots 2595 Westshore Cr., Severn $990,000

Builder’s dream! Draft plan approved. Steps to Lake Couchiching in the mature Bayou Park community. Hwy. 11 access. Don’t miss it ! Call Frank Su, Broker, MBA Direct: 519-729-6289 Office: 519-578-7300 Email: franksu168@gmail.com


29

Come Celebrate

CANADA DAY

at the Lions Hall

Washago and District Lions, 4343 Hamilton St, WASHAGO

MORNING

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Served with coffee/tea/pop/juice & watermelon 8 a.m. - Noon • EVERYONE WELCOME!

AFTERNOON

COUNTRY-CANADA DAY – LIVE BANDS

Canada’s Birthday

PATIO BAR – Beer & Coolers • Soft Drinks Burgers • Hot Dogs • Sausage on a Bun

FREE DRAw TICKETS FOR A BICYCLE

• Wednesday, July 1st •

at Lions Hall • Draw at 3 p.m.

LIONESS DRAw

Washago Canada Day Parade

50/50 tickets

ALL DAY

PARADE STARTS: 2:00 P.M. Live entertainment on Main Stage at noon.

ATV DRAw

Polaris ATV complete with Triton trailer. Buy your Raffle Tickets!

For more information contact: 705-689-3594

The Second Annual

fairways of

H PE

GOLF TOURNAMENT In Support of Couchiching Jubilee House

$125 PER GOLFER

OR

$450

PER FOURSOME

Light Lunch + 18 Hole Scramble + Silent Auction & Steak Dinner

AUGUST 14th | 11am LUNCH | 12pm SHOTGUN

Help support empowerment programming for women and children in our community. Funds will go towards: l l l

Counselling Support Life-skills development workshops Children's play and education programming

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER YOUR TEAM PLEASE CALL (705)326-4337


30

July 1

Canada Day celebrations in Washago. Street vendors. Live entertainment on the main stage on Muskoka Street, noon-2 p.m. Parade at 2 p.m.

July 1

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Washago, County Rd. 169 & Quetton St. – Canada Day Sale-bration from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

July 1

Canada Day celebrations in Orillia, Couchiching Park, all day. Pancake breakfast 8 am – 11 am, parade at noon, children’s village, live entertainment, vendors. Fireworks at dusk.

July 3, 4, 5

Mariposa Folk Festival, Tudhope Park, Orillia. Over 100 performances on 10 stages. Camping available. Visit www.mariposafolk.com for details and to purchase tickets.

July 4/5

July 12

Canoe & kayak the Roehl Wetland. Ontario Family Fishing event, July 9 am – noon. Event guided by 4/5. License-free fishing throughout locals Janet Grand and Ron Reid. Ontario for Canadian residents of all Your own equipment is required. ages. www.ontariofamilyfishing.com Free to attend. Pre-register or call 705-748-6324. www.couchichingconserv.ca or call 705-326-4643. July 8 Free Movies in the Park, 9:30 July 18 pm – 11 pm, Aqua Theatre in Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Couchiching Beach Park. For more Museum, 50th anniversary fund information call 705-325-4283 or raising celebrations. Fancy box visit www.orillia.ca. lunch social, live entertainment, silent auction, 50/50 draw. $50/ July 11 Noon-5 p.m. www. 5th Annual Ramara Classic Car person. & Boat Show, all day. Old cars coldwatermuseum.com. and fancy boats! 150 Laguna July 17-19 Pkwy., Brechin. 705-484-2141 or 38th Annual Scottish Festival. www.ramarachamber.com. Parade downtown Orillia at noon July 18th; pipe and drum July 11/12 Art on the Severn show at Washago competitions, entertainment and Community Centre from 10 vendors at Couchiching Beach Park. am – 4 pm. Landscape artists & July 23 photographers depicting North Heritage United Church, Washago. Simcoe and South Muskoka Delicious beef BBQ. Roast beef, landscapes and architecture. baked potato, baked beans, salad, rolls and delicious pies! Sittings

5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Adults $15. Children 6-12 $6. Preschoolers free. Reservations or order take out, 705689-2461.

July 24 & 25

9th Annual Orillia Beatles Celebration. Live performances along 5 blocks, main stage and Opera House in downtown Orillia. Street vendors. Beer garden. www. orilliabeatlescelebration.com.

July 26

1st annual Midsummer Antique & Vintage Market. ODAS Park, Hwy.12 W. and Fairgrounds Rd., 80 dealers. 8 am– 4 pm. Admission $8.00. Food vendors, live music. Free parking. 1-800-667-0619 or www. antiquesshowscanada.com.

August 8

Coldwater Steampunk Festival, Coldwater’s main street, Canadiana Museum and Coldwater Mill. www.steampunkfestivalcoldwater. com or Facebook.com/ coldwatersteampunkfestival.

Live life to its fullest!

• Wheelchairs • Mobility Scooters • Lift Chairs • Bathroom Safety

• Home Care Beds & Mattresses • Bed Accessories • Walking Devices & More

Regional specialists in incontinence.

Free in-home assessment.


The Villiager - July ad.pdf 10/06/2015 11:56:39 AM

Part of the Orillia Beatles Celebration C

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Also.....

ON GOLDEN POND by Ernest Thompson

July 9 - 25


• Steaks, chops, chicken & burgers • Fresh fruits and vegetables • Specialty items: cheeses, smoked salmon, spreads, sauces, chutney, dips and more

Bread, buns, croissants • Sweet rolls, Danish, turnovers • Double-decker brownies Date squares, Muffins • ‘Almost Famous’ Butter Tarts • DELICIOUS HOMEMADE PIES Relax in our bakery café & enjoy our French-pressed coffee or specialty tea with a fresh bakery item. There are always specials at Canoe Fresh Food Market. Drop in to see what we have for you this week!

Like us on for updates and specials


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