The Villager 2020 July by Villager Community News

July 2020

Township update . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 19 Real estate boom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 COVID-19 stage 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Outdoor art. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Canada Day 2020 – so much to celebrate! By Ellen Cohen Here we are. In Canada. During a pandemic. The term social distancing is part of everyone’s vocabulary. Masks have become an accessory. And the skin on our hands is almost transparent from constant washing and numerous daily applications of sanitizing gel. Every time we leave the house we are at a heightened state of awareness. We turn our backs on anyone who gets too close and run from anyone who coughs. We line up to get groceries and feel grateful when there is flour on the shelves and meat in the hopper. Tragically, today, Canadians are still getting sick - and dying. Our seniors are in constant peril. Cancer treatments are still far behind schedule and we still can’t see a doctor in her office. The world is not normal. So, what’s to celebrate? A lot. Imagine, if you can, living in Brazil or the United States. In spite of Brazil and the US reporting the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the world, one president has decided that COVID-19 is ‘what it is’ and there’s nothing to be done, while the latter calls the pandemic a hoax, and long ago relinquished responsibility regarding the pandemic and moved on to campaign mode for the November election.

In contrast, Canada has three levels of government – municipal, provincial and federal – each one working hard every day, doing their best to keep us as safe as possible. They have kept us informed every step of the way and they all use health experts to guide their pandemic strategy. This is worth celebrating. We can celebrate our universal health care program, our excellent hospitals and the devoted frontline workers, first responders and all essential service workers who keep our country from disaster. In this glorious part of our country, celebrating where we live is easy. The virus hasn’t spoiled our clean, clear rivers, towering pines, beautiful forests and stunning granite outcrops. The area is still home to millions of birds. Bullfrogs croak and make us smile. The sound of peepers or

whippoorwills help us go to sleep at night. None of this has changed. All of this goes on while the people in Severn have just become more thoughtful and loving. Hundreds of business owners in the region have met the pandemic challenges and, from day one, have never stopped looking after us. They feed us and provide us with much more than our basic needs. Thousands of their employees have gone to work every day, even though they are surely fearful of contagion. And thousands more of our residents have stepped up to help family, neighbours and friends or to volunteer, supporting and caring for our community. On Canada Day, in your small social circle, wear red, hang a flag and celebrate. O Canada!

Are you considering a real estate move?

Paul Cleary B.B.A.

Covid-19 has brought changes to so many areas of our lives. When you’re ready, let’s talk about your goals and how I can help you move forward with safety in mind.

705-327-6002

Your best interests are always my first priority.

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Township Update Share your vision of Severn While the township is working on a rebranding initiative, they are eager to get your input. As a Severn resident, you can be part of this project by sharing your sense of community and civic pride. To participate, please visit engagesevern. ca, register for a free account and provide your input on a range of activities designed to uncover your stories, sources of pride, and vision for Severn’s updated brand. Property tax payments Please note the due dates for property taxes are in two installments, August 10 and October 8. The administration office is still closed to the public but there are several ways to make payments: sign up for preauthorized payments (PAP) on the website townshipofsevern.com; pay online or through telephone banking; in person at your financial institution; by cheque, mail to PO Box 159, Orillia ON L3V 6J3 or deliver to the drop box at the township office 1024 Hurlwood Lane, Severn. Property Assessments – update postponed In response to COVID-19, the Municipal Assessment Corporation (MPAC) delayed the 2020 Ontario-wide assessment. Property assessments for the 2021 tax year will be based on the fully phased-in January 2016 property values. The property assessment for 2021 will be the same as 2020 unless there have been changes to your property.

Although township offices are closed, staff from all departments are working from home and continue to serve residents. As this photo shows, staff are also working on major projects such as Quarry Rd. You can learn more about this at mpac.ca. See ‘About My Property’. Community Grants The township is accepting grant applications for capital improvements and community programs. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2020. Full details, including criteria, are available on the township website. Building services – permits and inspections The township continues to monitor, adapt and respond to COVID-19. Therefore, several protective measures have been implement to safely ensure essential services including the continuation of building permit reviews and approvals, and inspections.

Call 705-325-2315, ext. 224 for complete details regarding applications and current protocols. Council and committee meetings While the township offices are closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, meetings are held electronically. The public is welcome to join in and listen. Agendas are available online on the Friday prior to the meetings at townshipofsevern.com. July meetings: Planning and Development, July 7 at 9:00 a.m.; Council, July 7 at 2:00 p.m.; Corporate Services Committee, July 22, 9:00 a.m. Continued on page 19

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4 From the Publisher:

Kindness saves lives

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

In spite of all the challenges we’ve faced throughout this pandemic, so many restrictions and recommendations from the government and health experts, isn’t it amazing how well most people have adjusted, changed priorities, or lived with less. Even our vocabulary has changed. ‘Flattening the curve’ and ‘asymptomatic’ are words that roll off our tongues. Our homes, now called our ‘safe place’, have been rearranged in order to make Take some time to look at flowers in bloom room on a table or closet shelf to be used for in Severn. Medicine for the soul. our supply of disinfectant wipes, sanitizing gel and masks. There’s a spot in the garage or on the kitchen counter reserved for wiping down and disinfecting groceries. We’ve changed behaviour, too. Instead of running to answer the doorbell, we are alarmed when it rings. We will only talk to the visitor through the door, or wait to open it until they back off at least 2 metres. …and, oh yes, Zoom is now a verb. Grandma to grandson: “Want to Zoom tonight?” The vast majority of Severn residents have followed COVID-19 protocols and initiated or been the recipient of one of the hundreds and thousands of acts of kindness from neighbours and friends. Unfortunately, we’ve been witness to many who have not changed their behaviour. They appear to be unkind, making a conscious decision to not help reduce the spread of COVID-19. They are easy to identify. They gather in large groups without a care about personal contact. They get too close in a line up, obviously unable to see, or oblivious to, the lines on the floor meant to keep people separated and safe. There are those who shop in a group rather than alone, spreading themselves across store aisles while talking on their cell phones and bumping into other shoppers None of these people is wearing a mask. Ask them why they do these things and they might answer by saying the COVID-19 protocols aren’t necessary because the virus isn’t that bad, it’s just a flu. Some go as far as to say this whole pandemic thing is a hoax or some sort of government conspiracy. After all, they might say, in Canada we have rights. We are free to make our own choices and express our opinions. The fact is, in Canada our right to freedom of expression does not give anyone the right to put others in peril. Ever. We have civic responsibilities and we do not have the right to harm others recklessly nor to exclude precautions that keep others safe. In the case of COVID-19, we, collectively, have a responsibility to limit the spread of this terrible, deadly pandemic For those who choose not to follow COVID-19 protocols, let’s put your opinion aside for a moment and review what happens with this virus: If you infect me, I will infect others. They in turn will infect others…and on it goes. Exponential growth means that because of your carelessness, your unkindness, you alone become responsible for 100’s of cases of COVID-19. And, one day, this virus surely will reach out and attach itself to someone you love. What will you say to them? You had the right? Mike Burkett, the mayor of Severn said what I’ve said above, but in only 17 words. In his kind, understated way, he said, “We must look after each other. The only way to do that is to follow COVID-19 protocols.” Simple instructions that save lives. Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.

Covid-19 information; Trent-Severn update; Water levels By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton I hope you are all coping well under the continuing circumstances of COVID-19. At the time of writing, Canada is in the middle of the pack among countries with COVID, with around 270 cases per 100,000. In the US, the rate of contraction has been more than double that – around 670 per 100k. I was pleased to see Ontario move to a regional approach to starting the phase 2 opening. It included us here in Simcoe Muskoka region yet only a few dozen km’s to our south, Brock Township in Durham Region, remains at only stage one. This past week, Ontario dropped well below 300 new cases per day and seems well on its way to opening stage 2 across the province; likely by the time you read this article. COVID remains a deadly virus – seeing 8% of cases in Canada resulting in death. This has been an especially sad experience for our elderly in long-term care homes where 60% of the deaths have occurred. As we emerge from this health emergency, attentions must be turned to how we do a better job in Canada to provide healthcare services for our elderly as their needs become more acute – accentuated by mobility limitations, dementia and other debilitating diseases. We don’t need more studies on this. We know what is needed to fix this. We need the political will to get it done. There is some Trent-Severn waterway news to relay. You’ll know by now that the system opened on June 1st, with the exception of Lock 43 at Swift Rapids (down the Severn River below Hydro Glen), with some restrictions in place as to the usual services

due to the pandemic. The reconstruction of the bridge at Lock 42, originally planned for reopening to vehicular traffic this month, has been delayed until the fall. The news from Parks Canada came just this week (June 11th) about the further delay. In the release, they explain that, “Notwithstanding the best efforts of all concerned to reduce negative impacts of COVID-19 on our ongoing infrastructure projects along the Trent-Severn Waterway, this project has experienced delays due to the availability of workforce and key materials. In addition, the condition of concrete at the site was found to be poorer than original tests indicated, requiring additional work for its removal.” This will not be welcome news for residents along Canal Road and Cambrian line area who are currently detouring south for access to Hwy 11, but it is a necessary project and will be open soon. I follow water level reports daily for Lake Simcoe and the Severn River. Those reports show how unusually low the spring run-off was this year. You can get them at: https:// www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/trentsevern/ info/infonet/niveau-eau-water-levels.

The extra evaporation that occurs during the summer weeks and starting in early July, the adjustments to the six dams in Washago (the only outlet for the entire Lake Simcoe watershed of 3,400 sq. km’s), will gradually reduce the water level in Simcoe-Couchiching by approximately 25 cm’s (9 inches), over the summer. This reduction can be problematic for shoreline owners on Lake Couchiching as they are forced to adjust docks and ramps for the enjoyment of their property. But, it’s life on a dynamic and largely unpredictable waterway. History has shown that the Rule Curve is the best median that can be had when you consider the conflicting interests of recreational boating, minimum levels for navigation, prevention of flooding and preservation of natural fish habitat. Wishing you all a safe and happy summer ahead as we all practice the social distancing, hand-washing and maskwearing that will permit get back to normal (or as close as we can to it) while preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Our world changes almost daily At the time we sent this issue to the printer, we did our very best to have the most updated Covid-19 news and advertiser protocol information available. However, openings and closings of businesses, as well as health guidelines, can change daily. Covid-19 urgent messages and significant changes to health guidelines are always posted on township, provincial and federal websites. If you do not have access to the internet, please keep in touch with relatives and friends by telephone.

Serving Our Community Four Ways: 1) Shop by phone: 705-689-2611 2) Shop by email: Rich.Harmer@homehardware.ca

Place your order and we’ll do the shopping. Pick up is outside the store.

3) Shop in person outside the store: Just show up at the table outside our store, tell us what you need and we’ll do the shopping for you.

4) Shop in person inside the store: You may come into the store and do your own shopping. We welcome you back! The number of customers inside will be limited at any given time. Social distancing protocols will apply. THANK YOU! To our customers – you are simply fantastic. Your loyalty, kindness, patience and understanding are without question what makes being in business in Washago so rewarding. To my staff – without you, working together as a team and always doing what is required in order to serve our customers, would not have been possible. Your extra work, sometimes for many days without a break, has been invaluable to me and to our community.

3375 Muskoka St. Washago 705-689-2611 Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Fire up the grill for fresh garden veggies By Chef Becky Lennerton Proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

This is a terrific simple summer recipe for all veggie lovers. Whether you’re buying from local markets or using the selection you have from your new ‘Covid garden’, the selection of vegetables and seasonings is up to you. The following includes my personal favourites. INGREDIENTS: • 1 whole cauliflower head • 2 sweet potatoes • 8 asparagus spears • Peppers, seeded • Zucchini, peeled • Portobello mushrooms • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil • Freshly chopped herbs - rosemary, thyme basil, oregano • Pinch of cumin Hummus • Balsamic vinegar • ½ cup Canadian feta • Edible flower petals, such as nasturtium

METHOD: Set BBQ at high. Cut vegetables large enough so that they don’t fall through BBQ slats. Cauliflower should be cut into 1-inch thick slices; The BBQ can now be turned down to low heat to cook. Place remaining vegetables peppers quartered; asparagus left whole. Toss vegetables in large bowl with olive oil. on grill for the last 2 minutes.

Spread hummus on plate bottom and place Shake excess marinade off and place veggies on top of humus. vegetables on the grill in order of how Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and crumble quickly they will cook, i.e. cauliflower and feta on top. Add salt pepper to taste. sweet potato will take 5-8 minutes. The Garnish with flower petals or sunflower other vegetables will take 2 minutes. seeds and dried cranberries. Add in herbs and cumin.

Place cauliflower and sweet potato on hot Happy Canada Day! grill, 1 minute each side to get grill marks.

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Astonishing real estate numbers When the pandemic hit our country, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) believed that we would experience a price decline in residential homes. Housing analysts were saying that the residential real estate market would be in distress. Neither of these scenarios has happened, certainly not in the area from Orillia to Gravenhurst. Ron O’Neil is the Director of Training and Development for Century 21 B.J. Roth Realty Ltd. The brokerage has offices in Barrie, Orillia, Gravenhurst and Huntsville. Ron said, “Washago is on fire. For properties priced right, sellers are getting multiple offers.” He supplied The Villager with some statistics pulled from the Matrix MLS system. The statistic refer to properties from Orillia to Gravenhurst. • The median residential home price in February was $372,500. As of June 2020, the medium home price is at a new record of $475,500, more than $100,000 increase in just a few months. • By June 22, 2020, a new record for alltime total dollar sales volume in this area has been reached: $84,239,700.00.

Ron said that seniors and the younger in this area, The Villager asked Ron what demographic are both responsible for the measures were in place to protect buyers surge in interest in this part of the province. and sellers during the pandemic. He said open houses stopped immediately The pandemic encouraged seniors to review and hasten their retirement plans. upon the province announcing emergency With the equity in their GTA home, their measure. Virtual tours have become dream waterfront home was possible as was the norm. Among other precautions, in their ability to enjoy a good quality lifestyle. preparation for a showing, sellers and For the younger demographic, many are agents ensure that all lights in the house looking forward to always working from are left on and all doors are open. The only home. Crowded streets and condo elevators surfaces touched are the front and back have become a worry. But, because they doors. Masks are required. can now live anywhere and still work, communities north of the GTA is where they are settling. “Right now, younger people are heading to MPP, Simcoe North communities along the Highway 400/11 corridor. ORILLIA OFFICE: Relative to GTA real estate, 14 Coldwater Road W. Orillia, ON, L3V 3L1 the prices are affordable and, as a result this vast MIDLAND OFFICE: 295 King Street, Suite 6 area is experiencing TD Canada Trust Bank Plaza amazing real estate sales,” Midland, ON, L4R 3M5 said Ron. With so much activity jill.dunlopco@pc.ola.org in the real estate market

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Learning more about bats in our area By Ron Reid

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We are now fully operational. We ask all visitors bring a mask and use hand sanitizer prior to your appointment. Thanks for keeping us all safer.

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The recent Carden Challenge was a great success in many ways, attracting more participants than ever before, and raising more funds as well. Because of the Covid-19 restrictions on gatherings, the 2020 Challenge allowed participants to make their observations close to home. For those of us in the Washago area, that turned up some surprises. Toby Rowland is a biologist working for the Couchiching Conservancy, and living on Cooper’s Falls Road. He has a special interest in bats, and during the Challenge used a device called a wildlife acoustics echometer to identify the types of bats in and around the Conservancy’s Adams Reserve. This device “reads” the distinctive pattern of sound pulses emitted by each species which echo back off any nearby surfaces, including the flying insects that are their prey. To my surprise, he detected five types of bats flying within a relatively small area. Until recently, Little Brown Myotis were by far the most common species in this area, but their numbers have plummeted across eastern North America as a result of the introduction of a disease called White-nose Syndrome. Little Browns are highly social, with maternal colonies during the summer where females raise their pups, and large winter roosting colonies in caves where the disease spreads easily. This species is now classed as endangered in Canada, but fortunately Toby was able to detect it on the Challenge. Another of his finds was the Big Brown Bat, which has a more solitary lifestyle, and thus is less susceptible to the White Nose pandemic. Big Browns are relatively common near wooded areas, and only migrate short distances – less than 50 km – from their summer nesting sites to sheltered spots for their winter hibernation. The most colourful of the species found by Toby was the Eastern Red Bat, which is clad in reddish or orangish fur. This bat lives in conifer or mixed hardwood forests, usually roosting high in the canopy. Another species of forested areas is the Silver-haired bat, which roosts during the day under loose tree bark. It prefers to forage over open water.

The fifth species detected by Toby was the Hoary Bat, whose fur has a frosted appearance because of whitish hairs protruding from its grey fur. This species has a yellowish facial disk that sets it apart. Hoary’s are the largest bat in Ontario, even though they still weigh less than a Chipmunk. Little Brown Myotis

With Toby’s help, small teams of Conservancy citizen science volunteers are using the echometer this summer to explore other parts of north Simcoe to document the types of bats at each site. This will add enormously to our knowledge of the distribution of these flying mammals. Only eight species of bats occur in Ontario; to detect five of those in a single evening suggests that our area, with its abundant insect life, is an important habitat for this family. As we learn more about bats, hopefully our irrational fears of these “sky puppies” will be replaced by fascination, and we will learn to appreciate their essential role in local ecology. 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.

The Risk?

It's Worth A Conversation

Some COVID-19 Stage 2 details Moving from Stage 1 to Stage 2 in midJune, the government took a regional approach, opening areas of the province based on virus spread, containment and incidence-tracking capacity. Severn Township was one of the communities that entered Stage 2 in mid-June. Among other businesses and facilities, now open are all retail stores, including shopping malls, personal care businesses, restaurant patios, and many outdoor recreational facilities, beaches, parks and campgrounds. In every case, public health guidelines must be followed to ensure the safety of employees and customers. Stage 2 allows social gathering limits to increase from 5 to 10 people. Physical distancing is required. Social circles are now allowed - up to 10 friends and/or family members can interact without physical distancing, people you can hug and touch or those who can become part of your daily and weekly routines. An important note about social circles: everyone in the circle must

commit to being only in one social circle i.e. all 10 in the circle are having close contact only with the people in the circle. Contact outside of this circle must be through social distancing. Weddings and funerals may now include up to 10 people, and places of worship may open but are restricted to 30% of the building’s capacity. Physical distancing is required and mask wearing is highly recommended. Visit Ontario.ca for more details about Stage 2. You’ll also find information about COVID-19 self-assessment, testing sites, safety protocols, the new contact tracing app, the most current case numbers by region, and what the province will require from health experts before entering Stage 3 which is recovery.

Dustyn Pilger

CERTIFIED LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

nuscapelandscaping.com • 705-229-9388

Dressing the Lady ‘better than 35’ Hours: 10am - 3pm • Thursday, Friday, Saturday only STARTING JULY 2: Monday-Saturday, 10am - 3pm • Closed Sunday

Happy Birthday Canada 2020 We will be open on Canada Day 10am - 3pm offering our popular

‘NO TAX DAY’ In keeping with Covid-19 protocol, please sanitize your hands upon entering our store and join us in wearing a mask. We look forward to welcoming you back but we must be mindful of social distancing. Be kind and stay safe.

3363 Muskoka St., Washago washagovillageinn@sympatico.ca • 705-689-6603 Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time. We’re all in this together

Garden & Lawn Maintenance New Landscaping Installations

Please, shop local This month, in support of local businesses, we feature Washago Home Hardware and Washago Timber Mart. Since the COVID-19 restrictions began, and until today, both stores continue to face challenges but management and staff have been laser focused: meet local needs and serve their customers. They have unpacked and stocked dozens of truckloads of merchandise; completed personal shopping for customers; kept curbside pickup organized and easy to use; and made sure the store is sanitized and safe for everyone. Before you go online or head to another community, check with Washago Home Hardware or Washago Timber Mart. They will appreciate your support.

Washago Home Hardware What makes this store so unique? It’s open every day but two, year round; and, if they don’t have what you need, they’ll get it for you. Always. The store has the benefit of the huge Home Hardware network headquartered in St. Jacobs, Ontario and their vast selection of products.. Flyer sales items are always honoured and, because the Washago store is part of this massive distribution centre, merchandise arrives in the village every week, including new and exciting items. If you haven’t shopped at Washago Home Hardware, there is little they don’t have: garden supplies and equipment; BBQ;s; plumbing, heating, carpentry and electrical needs; paint and supplies; hundreds of thousands of screws, bolts, nails, fasteners and more; wire; rope; light bulbs; kitchen décor; cleaning supplies…you get the picture.

Washago Timber Mart This is another unique and very successful business. They have worked so hard and so smart during this pandemic. They’ve changed hours and protocols as necessary. They have increased delivery exponentially. And every day they’ve made sure both their retail customers and their contractor clients have never been without. Washago Timber Mart is also owned and managed by local residents. Their staff is local and most have been with the store for years. Because they deal with some very complex contractor needs, the longevity of staff and management is very important. They know where everything is, what is available within the Timber Mart network, and they can offer sound advice to customers spending any amount of money. In addition to their loyal contractor business, they have a vibrant retail line of goods including kitchen and bathroom custom cabinetry, flooring, power tools, paint and supplies, lighting and an excellent selection of general hardware supplies.

Scenic Severn River • This bungalow has been artistically designed to enhance a waterfront lifestyle. Located on a quiet waterfront culde-sac on the edge of the quaint Village of Washago, the sitting room off the professionally designed kitchen has white birch floors. Vaulted ceiling and large windows offer majestic vistas. Dining and living rooms feature white pine floors accented with tumbled marble and walk out to patio. Master bedroom suite includes studio, walkout and an ensuite. Foyer entry from the charming porch has porcelain floors and aromatic cedar cupboards. This section of the river offers 26 miles of boating. $699,900. MLS#260992

SOLD!

Unit 157

Unit 110

Welcome to Shamrock Bay Resort, a seasonal family resort on the shores of Severn River just north of Washago. Enjoy the cottage life featuring swimming pools, children’s playground, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, club house, swimming beach, boat slips and so much more. Current listings: 1 bedroom, $42,900. MLS262341; and 2 bedroom $59,900. MLS262339. Fully furnished and fully equipped, extensive decking, beautiful lots. Enjoy from May 1st to October 31st.

LEASED

Home for Rent • Fully accessible main floor • Very attractive and well-maintained home in a rural community only minutes to Orillia amenities. An alternative to a care facility and large enough for a family to enjoy life together, the main floor is completely wheel chair accessible including the spacious open concept living/dining room/kitchen; the master bedroom; and the full ensuite bathroom. Upper level has second bedroom and den; 3rd bedroom on lower level. Accessible enclosed 3-season sunroom. Steps from the public swimming beach at beautiful Bass Lake. Ample parking. $2,300.00 /month. MLS#262368.

NOTICE TO SEVERN BUSINESS OWNERS If you would like your business to appear in this monthly feature, please email thevillagerpress@rogers.com with “Severn Business” in the subject field.

Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative

705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775 www.LeahCCavanaugh.ca leah.cavanaugh@century21.ca Not intended to solicit properties for sale or buyers under contract.

We are open for business and look forward to seeing you!

As the province reopens, we are taking all COVID-19 precautions medical experts advise, keeping you and our staff as safe as possible. We ask you to participate and wear a mask when you enter our store.

CPA, CGA

Call for an appointment

705-514-2522

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Saving a globally rare ecosystem By Courtney Baker Although the pandemic has lead our province down an uncertain path, staff and volunteers at The Couchiching Conservancy hosted the most successful Carden Challenge ever. In fact, the first ever ‘Carden Challenge: at Home Edition’ also broke records for participation. Rather than our normal 4060 participants, there were 90 people from across the province who raised $38,000, approximately double the average amount. Thank-you to everyone who participated and for your dedication to the Carden Alvar, a globally rare ecosystem. The supporters, donors and participants who contributed to this event’s success represent

a glimpse of the good that has come out of a trying situation. Participants counted species in their own communities, reducing carbon footprints, and new discoveries were made. Many people found habitats they hadn’t noticed before. Urban dwellers were delighted by the wild things on their own street, and most importantly family and friends spent quality time together, whether in person and social distancing, or via a multitude of technologies. The power of a community of passionate people working to protect the environment is both exhilarating and humbling. The group of people who worked together, yet apart, is a group that values giving more back to the earth than they take from it.

OUR DOORS ARE NOW OPEN Welcome back!

We are now able to invite our customers back into our store. In order to make your shopping experience pleasant and keep our customers and staff safe, physical distancing measures will be in place; a limit of 1 person per group will be allowed inside the store; and there will be a maximum number of customers at any given time.

Courtney Baker during the most recent conservancy fundraising event.

Throughout the pandemic many friends, acquaintances and writers have expressed hope that this pause can be a moment to re-define our culture’s priorities. To shift from consumption and business, to family and community. I think the Carden Challenge at Home Edition has given evidence that people are doing just that. Today we can say: together we have halted the destruction of beauty on the Carden Alvar.

But every acre saved must be stewarded year after year. That is why fundraising is ongoing. That is why this community is so essential, and that is why is it so special to be a part of something bigger than you, that will be around longer than you, and long after this pandemic is all over. Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, protecting nature for future generations, birds included.

As we begin the careful process of reopening, we want to especially thank you, our customers, for the support and patience you’ve shown week after week. During these weeks, and with you in mind, our staff helped us make the operational changes necessary to serve you best, including curbside pickup and enhanced delivery. We are grateful for their help and for your continued patronage. We look forward to seeing your friendly faces once again!

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By Jill Dunlop, MPP Simcoe North There is a very different feeling to Canada Day this year. In the past, Ontarians have embraced the holiday by gathering in huge crowds to celebrate the country’s history and achievements together. Festivities would go on all day and ranged from parades, gatherings and activities in local parks, citizenship ceremonies, fireworks, and other events. At this time, in Stage 2, we are only allowed to gather in our social circles of 10. Otherwise you are asked to social distance or wear a mask when distancing is not possible. Many will continue to meet with friends and family only virtually. But, in spite of restrictions, the pride of Canada seems even more prevalent. Canadian flags are flying all over the country - and certainly in Simcoe North. Activities this year won’t go much beyond drive-by parades, perhaps small BBQ parties, driveway visits, or long distance celebrations via Zoom. Whatever way everyone has chosen to recognize Canada’s birthday, all will enjoy some memorable moments, albeit so different from years past. For the next while, all Ontarians will work together to help re-open the economy. Through “A Framework for Reopening our Province”, the provincial guidelines across sectors will assist businesses and individuals. This stage 2 initiative will help ensure a pace of re-opening that ensures safety to all. My enhanced website, jilldunlopmpp.ca, provides access to these guidelines, local information, and important updates. Although my offices in Midland and Orillia remain closed to walk-ins, you can reach out to my well-informed and helpful staff via phone or email. During this historical time, and while we are all working towards re-opening, please take the time to thank local businesses. Shop at their stores and eat at their restaurants. Your support will be how they, and our province, gets back to prosperity. Also, please consider volunteer work. Call local non-profit organizations and find out how you can help some of the most vulnerable in our community. Lastly, Canada Day is a great time to celebrate both of Canada’s official languages. I embrace the French language eagerly through weekly lessons, and I use this training when out in the community. Merci à nos communautés francophones et anglophones pour votre contribution à l’arrêt de la propagation de COVID-19. Thank you to both our French and English-speaking communities for your contribution to stop the spread of COVID-19.

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New gardeners – time for detail work By Karen Kahle How’s your new garden coming along? If you’ve planted vegetables and flowers appropriate for this region and haven’t overcrowded the garden beds, by the beginning of July, everything should be fairly well established. If you’ve mulched, fertilized and watered regularly and properly, your garden will now begin to flourish - but you’ll need to help it along by moving into the maintenance mode. In fact, unless you’re still planting, you can now put away your heavy shovels and garden fork until the fall when it’s time to dig out spent vegetable plants, get bulbs planted, or to split up and transplant perennials. Now is the time for detail work and, just like any other skill, detail work requires smaller tools. One garden tool you cannot do without is a hand rake, sometimes called a claw rake. It will help you with the most important garden maintenance. Use it to keep the soil loose around plants so that water can

seep more easily down to the roots. It will also dig deep enough to pull weeds out by the roots. And it will easily rake up bits of garden debris. The hand rake will likely become your ‘go to’ garden tool so spend some time looking for the one that is of good quality and feels comfortable in your hand. There are dozens of other tools on the market but as a new gardener you can limit the number you actually need. If you become an avid gardener, you’ll likely start adding specialty tools but for now, it is prudent to start with that irreplaceable hand rake and consider adding a trowel (a small hand-held shovel); a weeder for Nowring ters e Off Boos n i k S

the larger intrusive weeds; a small pruner to use in your flower garden; and a longhandled garden rake, one that’s heavy and long enough to reach into the back of your garden to help loosen soil and gather debris. Lastly, kneeling onto the ground or bending over to reach the base of plants can be dangerous and cause injury. At little expense, and for your gardening comfort, purchase a garden kneeling pad or cushion. For gardeners who can’t kneel down to garden soil level, consider a garden stool. Karen Kahle is the proprietor of Fern Forest Garden Centre, www.fernforest.ca M Treeso-G atm old ent s

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The show must go on We are now heading into the fourth month of the pandemic. During this time, around the world, there have been no live performances. The long-term effect on this industry is enormous. Out of work are: musicians and actors and everyone who supports them such as producers, managers and agents, lighting and sound teams, set designers; recording studios and all their staff; all of the staff who maintain performing arts facilities including ushers, bar managers and servers, cleaning staff, ticket sellers. The list goes on. But, even though the industry is decimated, performing artists still have a deep commitment to the old saying ‘the show must go on’. They continue to entertain us although, for now, only online. Some online performances are fundraising efforts, some are in aid of selling new releases. Most of it is free. And all of it brings a light into our lives. The ease with which we can go online

and find thousands of performances is such a gift. A Google or YouTube search will likely find exactly what you need. There are also dozens of sites featuring live theatre, opera and concerts. Here are just a few: Broadwayworld.com – is a site showing live Carnegie Hall performances. There is also an option for their education initiative,

Learn with Carnegie Hall. Metopera.org/nightly-opera-stream/ takes you to Metropolitan Opera performances. Billboard.com features concerts in a variety of genres. The sites says ‘No audience? No Problem.’ Full production concerts are returning to empty venues. Timeout.com streams some of the best theatre productions.

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A very personal donation to charity Sarah Cole, a Severn resident transplanted from the Richmond Hill area works in the environmental sector and, happily, has been able to work throughout the pandemic. The anxiety everyone has felt throughout these difficult times led Sarah to think about helping those in need who aren’t always the main topic of discussion. She settled on children who have lost their hair due to cancer treatments, burns or other medical conditions. Sarah said she looked at several organizations that take hair donations and settled on Children with Hair Loss because of the great need and because they do not charge the child’s family. Having had very long hair for a long time, at the time of her decision it was the longest it had ever been. Although preparation for this venture was a snap, it was a major decision to say goodbye to the hair she had for so long and to change her appearance so drastically. Her appointment with Kimberly DerosaSolvsten, the owner of the new hair salon, Strands in Washago, was 5:00 p.m. on June

be mailed to Children with Hair Loss, along with a completed donor form. While Sarah has been working during the pandemic, and preparing for her hair cut, she began another initiative – a local online marketplace for artisans in Simcoe County. The purpose of the site is to give artisans the opportunity to market and sell handmade crafts and other items. The site www.localcraftsmarket.ca, launches July 1st. The marketplace is also on Instagram and Facebook @localcraftsmarket or you can email Sarah directly: info@ localcraftsmarket.ca.

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18th. It didn’t take long to do the deed. Kimberly divided Sarah’s almost waistlength hair into sections and eventually created two long braids which were snipped off and placed into a plastic bag. As Sarah has been instructed, her hair will

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Giving during hard times This is the second installment of The Villager’s feature of non-profit and charitable organizations who serve our community. The end goal of this feature is to encourage Villager readers to consider donating, if possible, a little extra during the COVID-19 pandemic. Donations from the public have diminished while at the same time charity and non-profit organizations have had to cancel events that would normally raise much needed funds.

The Orillia Youth Centre

This organization provides a safe and supervised space for all youth ages 11-17. Youth can come to the centre and ‘hang-out; get involved in their programs; or do their own self-directed activities. The centre is fully equipped and offers activities ranging from social to recreational with the opportunity for youth to get involved in local festivals and events, community art projects, community clean-ups and more. The Orillia Youth Centre is fully staffed by qualified Youth Workers who are CPR, crisis intervention, and suicide intervention trained and OPP vetted. If you’re interested in helping youth get supported and be positively engaged, call the centre’s director, Kevin Gangloff to make a donation or for more information. 705-325-8082 or email orilliayouthcentre@rogers.com.

Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions

Formerly known as The Children’s Aid Society, Simcoe Muskoka Family Connexions, provides child protection services, abuse prevention programs, family support, and adoption services under the Child and Family Services Act, and in the Muskoka branches, children’s mental health services. For the past decade, they have been actively building relationships with First Nations communities, acknowledging cultural differences leading to making reconciliation a priority. The organization is also committed to providing all people with disabilities equal opportunities and standards of service. If you believe all children have the right to grow up in an environment where they are loved, nurtured and cherished, you could consider a donation. Visit their website familyconnexions.ca or call 705-726-6587.

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Township Update come in on alternative days in order to prevent close contact. When administrative staff is not in the office, they are working from home. Each of them reports daily to the CAO in order to make sure resident inquiries move forward to the appropriate department for resolution. Their goal is to answer resident phone calls and email within 24 hours. If necessary, personal visits to the office can be arranged. COVID-19 protocols are in place. You will be asked to wait in the parking lot until you are phoned for your appointment time. This procedure will be in place until the Premier approves a change. . Road Work Major road work and necessary repairs, with a budget of $3 million, have not stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both Irish Line and Quarry Rd. have been chipped and repaved; some work has been completed on Sparrow Lake Rd.; and Riverdale Rd., from Coopers Falls for a length of about 2 km will be completed this year. The asphalt used for all projects is

a high grade product that does cost more but gives the roads longevity, about 5-6 years more. Cambrian Rd. and Lock 42 The Cambrian Rd. culvert and paving project will be completed this year, but it is behind schedule, partly the result of the yet to be started drainage work at the railway tracks. CN owns that land and, although they are now in step with the township as regards the overall project, they have complete authority over this component of the work. Residents face two other challenges: there have been occasions when CN trains have been stopped on the tracks, once for 97 minutes. Because of the bridge closure for work at Lock 42, when a train blocks the road, residents are trapped causing residents much anxiety. The Lock 42 bridgework, a federal project, has also been delayed. For more details, see Bruce Stanton’s article on page 5 of this issue of The Villager.

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August meetings: Planning and Development Committee, August 12 at 9:00 a.m.; Council, August 12 at 2:00 p.m. To make arrangements to listen to the meeting, call Allison Gray, clerk at 705-325-2315, ext.232, or email agray@ townshipofsevern.com. COVID-19 information and assistance On the home page of Severn’s website you’ll find a COVID-19 graphic. Click on this and find information about pandemic protocols that will help keep you safe. Other resources include the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. Their site has information about local COVID-19 cases; or visit a site managed by the province - The Ontario Ministry of Health at Ontario.ca. This site will help you with topics such as symptoms and self-assessment, support, phase II details, and more. Staffing during COVID-19 pandemic As of The Villager printing deadline, township administrative staff are working in split shifts in the township offices. They

Hamilt on

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Washago Art Club does it again! TWIN MAPLES FARM

Even during these difficult times, the Washago Art Club members think about the community and how they can help to brighten someone’s day. Their most recent outdoor art exhibit can be seen along the main street of Washago – more than 20 pieces of art hung from telephone poles. Cheryl Lawder, a representative of the club, said based on what types of gatherings are allowable in the fall, the art club may have a live auction for these bird houses, or there may be an online version. Keep your eye on The Villager for more information over the next couple of months.

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Although we can’t see you at the Opera House right now, there are still lots of things to see and do in Gravenhurst:

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Arts at the Albion is a year-round co-operative gallery in the heart of Gravenhurst, Muskoka, showcasing the work of 20 diverse and unique local artists and craftspeople in a heritage building.

On Saturday, July 18th, we will be taking everything you love about Peter’s Players to the Muskoka Drive-In!

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Open 7 days a Week: Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. • Sunday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. THANK YOU TO OUR WONDERFUL, HARD-WORKING STAFF – You make it possible to serve our community and keep our customers safe during these difficult times. You are the best!

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