The Villager 2016 June by Villager Community News

June 2016

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Ward 5: progress and beautification By Ellen Cohen Donald Westcott, councillor for Ward 5 in Severn Township, hesitates to brag about what he’s accomplished in his life, although he’s extremely proud of his family and his community involvement. He says he’s just a farm boy from the 10th Concession in Ramara, where he spent the early part of his life. He eventually left the farm and joined the OPP, serving for 30 years before retiring in 2002. In 2008, he and his wife, Cathy built their home in Washago. Donald and Cathy have three grown children and one grandchild. Since his retirement, he has been involved in community and volunteer work and he is clearly enthusiastic about Ward 5 and his job as councillor. This is Donald’s first term and he’s enjoying the work, particularly talking directly to residents and getting involved in some of the initiatives that help to improve his ward and the township in general. The Villager talked to Donald about some of the township issues and focused on some that are specific to Ward 5. The imminent new community centre in Ward 4 is of great interest to Donald. He says he is extremely supportive of this project because he believes each ward needs a hub, a meeting place. “Ward 4 is where our township will see the greatest growth over the next several years. In fact, there’s already been a lot of growth and it’s time that those residents

The view from the beach at Centennial Park, Washago. The park is adjacent to a public boat launch. have a meeting place. A community centre is an important service,” he says. On a more complex topic, Donald discussed the need for library services, for both Ward 5 and Ward 4 residents. Speaking on behalf of Ward 5 residents with whom he has spoken, he said that the Severn Library in Coldwater does not serve the eastern side of the township well. “The library in Coldwater is well-run and in a beautiful old building but Ward 5 residents don’t use it. It’s too far away and residents tell me that they enjoyed the larger Orillia facility,” says Donald. He added that people tell him that even

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though many use e-library services and read books on their tablets, people still like to go to a library to search through books, sit and read magazines or join programs, particularly the programs for children and youth. Donald says Ward 5 is lucky to have a community centre, with an outdoor skating rink, that serves the area well. There are many locals who rent the facility for private events, and programs run at the centre are constantly booked to capacity, programs such as summer day camp for children, Continued on page 8

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An honoured Canada Day tradition By Ellen Cohen According to our unofficial but highly revered local historian, Glenys Hepinstall believes the first Canada Day parade in Washago was in 1978. It was a small parade with a small crowd, but it has grown over the years. In fact, it’s grown to the point that it’s often a challenge to find a good viewing spot on the sidewalk in the centre of the village. Local residents and visitors, many of whom bring their folding chairs, start to line the street long before the first float makes its way along Muskoka Street. Until two years ago, the parade made its way along Muskoka Street – twice. It started at the community centre, turned around in a local business driveway, and then made its way along Muskoka Street in the opposite direction, back to the community centre. Seeing the parade twice was a unique and very charming parade feature that our previous MP, Garfield Dunlop, who participated in the parade, joked about and told people, “If you don’t like the left side of my face, stick around. I’ll be back in a few minutes. Maybe you’ll like the right side of my face better!” Unfortunately, times change. The parade organizers don’t have the same opportunity to turn the parade around and come back safely. Without a safe turnaround, says Parade Marshall, Doug Cooper the parade floats and participants could get backed up which creates a possibility of some danger to the participants.

Bicycle decorating contest entrants above, from 2015, are (left) Keira, 6 yrs., and Logan, 8 yrs. With them are cousin, Rebecka; their mother, Lori (centre); and their aunt, Candi in the cowboy hat. The parade is organized entirely by volunteers, a committee made up of local residents. Along with Doug Cooper, the committee members are Don Westcott, Cathy Westcott, Kim Wynott, Boyd Smith, Phil Hooper, Glenys Hepinstall and Marilyn Boynton. They work under the auspices of the Washago Community Centre where the hall manager, Rose Petit helps to manage the event, offering advice and recommendations and helping them to keep things in order. There are always many activities in Washago on Canada Day. The parade is simply the largest event of the day. All three local churches and both local service clubs manage some of the most anticipated activities of the day including giving visitors to the village the opportunity to indulge in incredibly good food. There will be vendors

along the street and bake, craft and yard sales at the local churches. The Lions Club will extend the celebrations into Saturday, July 2nd offering breakfast, Karaoke and a cash bar. For those who want to participate in the parade, pre-registration is very important. It helps the Parade Marshall organize the order in which the floats and walking groups appear, giving the crowd and participants a much better parade experience. Pre-register by filling in a form available at the Washago Community Centre, or visit www.washagocommunitycentre.com. The Washago Canada Day schedule of events is displayed on page 31 of this issue of The Villager. Information will also be available on posters that will be displayed throughout Washago and at other local businesses.

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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

From the Publisher:

A scientific study We’re told that each season is 13 weeks long. I say nonsense! Summer is much, much shorter than the other seasons. I conducted a scientific experiment comparing the movement of time in February to May. The evidence is clear. Experiment, Part I: On February 18th, I was sitting at my kitchen table. The clock on my cell phone is glowing. It’s 7:45 p.m. It’s dark, very cold and windy - and the power is out. I can’t watch television. My handy power pack has run out of juice. I’m afraid to play games on my tablet in case the power is out for a long time and the battery drains. I should have plugged it in. I’m afraid to walk around the house in case I trip over my kitten. Time goes by so slowly, crawling by the minute. I feel itchy. Restless. Good grief, please tell me it’s time to go to bed. Experiment, Part II: I’m sitting on my deck on May 18th. The clock indicates 7:45 – in the p.m. There’s still plenty of daylight. The birds are singing their last song of the evening and the local blue heron flies by, heading to his rookery perhaps. There’s enough light in the sky to read my book or to step down to one of my flower beds and see what plants are popping up. I spend a few minutes talking to a neighbour. Before I know it, it’s dark. What??? Surely I just stepped outside! It’s time to go in the house. I am sad. I’d better tidy up and start getting ready for bed. Darn! If anyone has any proof that winter is the same length as summer, I’d like to hear from them.

Washago on July 1 If you live within a reasonable driving distance of this little village, it is well worth your time to head up to Washago on Canada Day. There’s something for everyone, beginning at 8:00 a.m. and, it seems, much of the festivities focus on food: strawberry shortcake, back bacon on a bun, luncheons, bake sales, breakfast. The highlight of the day, of course, is the parade. It starts at 2:00 p.m. and makes its way along Muskoka Street. Get there early to get a good spot and feel free to bring a folding chair to make yourself comfortable. If you have children, they might like to enter the bike decorating contest. It so, they must be at the Washago Community Centre by 12:30 p.m. After the judging, they are welcome to join the parade. There will be officials at the community centre to help you with these details. See page 31 of this issue of The Villager for a complete schedule. Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.

Three days of great music If you haven’t taken advantage of attending one of the best music festivals in the country, which takes place only a few minutes down the road, take another look at what the Mariposa Folk Festival offers. Over a 3-day weekend, guests of the festival enjoy over 100 live performances and an enormously diverse selection of music including folk, blues, soul, roots, spiritual, spoken word and more. Performers come from all over the world to grace one or more of the 10 stages on the festival grounds. There is plenty to keep you and your family busy for the entire 3-day weekend. In addition to what is arguably the bestattended feature of the festival – the food vendors - dozens of artisans are set up in Artisans Village, each with handmade items such as clothing, jewellery and musical instruments; approximately 24 community/ not-for profit organizations are featured in Community Village, just inside the main gates, each with displays and information; and the Mariposa Folk Festival has an emporium in a huge tent, selling music on behalf of the festival artists as well souvenir t-shirts and other apparel; and for families with children, there is Folkplay, an area of the park dedicated to entertaining and amusing tiny tots to teens. For those of you who attend Mariposa regularly, you know that from year to year, you can expect a well-run, always interesting and entertaining weekend filled with great music. You likely also know that festival organizers like to keep things fresh and exciting. “After 56 years, people might think that nothing else could possibly change at

The 3-day Mariposa Folk Festival, July 8-10, presents over 100 performances on 10 stages - folk, blues, soul, roots and more. Mariposa,” said Pam Carter, president of the Mariposa Folk Foundation and chair of the festival. “But every year we try to improve, offer something new, switch things up a little.” New this year is the addition of buskers; a new location for Ruth’s stage; and an entirely new stage. Buskers will entertain crowds in the newly located Community Village, and elsewhere throughout the festival grounds. “Buskers are highly visual and add to the sense of fun and being entertained,” says Pam. Ruth’s Stage, named after Ruth JonesMcVeigh, the spark and visionary driver of the festival, will be moved from an area near the main gates to a shady glen close to the back gates. Lastly, a new stage has been added, yet to be named, in the camping area. This stage will be programmed during the afternoon with performances by festival artists.

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Pam suggests those considering camping at the festival this year should book early. The music, of course, is what drives people to Mariposa. “The lineup, as usual, is amazing,” states Pam. “We will present familiar names as well as what I like to call ‘surprises’, up and coming artists who often simply astound the audience with their performances.” The 2016 main stage feature performers are: Friday night, Rita Coolidge; Saturday night, The Good Family; and Sunday night, The Milk Carton Kids. The Mariposa website lists all performers and includes biographies and photos. The festival takes place on July 8-10 at Tudhope Park in Orillia. Visit their website to get ticket information, performer details or to reserve a campsite. There is still an opportunity to volunteer at the festival. Details are on the website.

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Giving to others in times of need By Patrick Brown, Simcoe North MPP and Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario The embodiment of the Canadian spirit is that we help those in need of a hand up. No matter how much you’ve been knocked down or beaten up by the hardships of life, you can always count on a Canadian to come for assistance. Every day, we see communities rally together to help others in times of need – whether it is to help the recognizable faces at home or those in places far away with names unknown. Throughout my time in the public service, I have always done my best to embody this Canadian spirit, and to give back in whatever way possible, however big or small. In early May, more than 80,000 Albertans were forced to flee their homes as a result of rapidly spreading forest fires in Fort McMurray and Northern Alberta. Not only did they leave their homes behind, but also all of their possessions and memories. They left with the understanding that when they returned, there likely wouldn’t be much of anything remaining. I can’t even begin to imagine something like that happening here in Simcoe County. Global Medic is an incredible disaster relief organization which did phenomenal work responding to the crisis in Alberta. Last month, I was proud to join Global

Medic and help put together care packages for those affected by the tragic fires. I got the opportunity to meet many incredibly passionate volunteers from diverse backgrounds. While only a small action – simply a few hours out of my Saturday – it hopefully helped to make a big difference in a few people’s lives. I was also happy to see that Ontario contributed through larger contributions as well. Within days of the tragedy, our province had sent 100 firefighters and 19 support staff to help contain the blaze. I am positive that the courage and skill of Ontario’s world-class firefighters made a tremendous difference in containing the fire, ensuring that no more lives were needlessly lost. My message is simple: give back to your community, no matter how big or small. You can make a world of difference to someone. After all, what’s more Canadian than that? UPDATE: My Orillia office has moved locations. The office can now be found at 210 Memorial Avenue, Unit 108. The office’s contact information remains the same. If you need any assistance dealing with the Provincial Government, I encourage you to stop by, say hello to our friendly staff, and check out the new space.

Washago Community Centre Summer Day Camp We are looking forward to another great summer of fun-filled days led by our two new camp counsellors joining us this year. Camp will run for 8 weeks, from July 4 to August 26. A summer day camp brochure is available at either the day camp table in the lobby of the community centre or by visiting our web site at www.washagocommunitycentre. com. The day camp program has been updated with some new craft and activity ideas. Come for a day or stay for the summer.

Hall rental For hall rental or catering requirements, please contact the Washago Community Centre at 705-689-6424. Freelance bookkeeper needed: The Washago Community Centre is accepting applications for a freelance bookkeeper. Estimated time per month is 4-5 hours. For a description of the scope of work, please contact Rose Petite at 705689-6424 or email her at wccc@rogers.com. Washago Community Centre, P.O. Box 419, Washago ON L0K 2B0. The deadline for applications is June 8, 2016.

Ward 5: progress and beautification Continued from page 1 yoga, pickle ball and many others. It is also the rental home to a number of clubs in the area including the Washago Seniors Club and Rotary. Although the ward is the 2nd largest in the township, other than individual residential homes being built, there are no major residential developments

(as seen in Ward 4). Donald said that without upgrades to the sewer system, we likely won’t see large developments adjacent to Washago. “There simply isn’t capacity,” he said, adding that Washago is really an island, surrounded by water with huge swaths of granite all over the area. Any future major residential development would

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likely have to be outside of the current and more populated area of Washago. With proximity to so much water, the ward is extremely attractive to visitors, both cottagers and boaters. A large percentage of homes are on one of the local lakes or rivers. Local businesses in Washago and on Highway 11, including the large LCBO at Highway 11 and Country Rd. 169, thrive because of this, and residential property owners, especially those on waterfront properties, enjoy the benefits rising prices bring. “Ward 5 is still a major contributor to the township’s residential and business tax rolls,” he said, referring in part to what has been a boom in the tiny community of Washago. “Since the LCBO moved to their location off the highway, and Canoe opened their large grocery store and bakery, it seems that the community has been revitalized. There’s an awful lot going on in Washago, with several new businesses opening in the last two years.” Donald says the township has supported the growth in Washago by investing in, for example, beautification of Washago including large flower containers placed along the main street and funding the materials for the new canoe paddle outdoor art display that will be seen this summer.

Outside of the village, some of the most positive improvements the township has supported over the past couple of years have been made at Washago Centennial Park, situated on Lake Couchiching off County Road 169 at Quetton Street. Drainage has been improved, new picnic benches installed, and the dock, used for public boat launching, is being rebuilt. “The improvements to this park have been a great boon to the community. Centennial Park is one of the most beautiful park in Simcoe Region and it’s now being very well used,” says Donald. Lastly, Donald talked about road improvements, a topic that is always top of mind with residents regardless of where they live in the township. He says the township is keenly aware of the residents’ desire to always want roads to be in the best shape possible and for rural roads to have proper ditching to avoid over-icing or too much water on the roads. Cold weather with ice and snow naturally mean maintenance is constant and the township budgets accordingly. Donald says he is excited about the future of Ward and wants to hear from residents. He can be reached by calling 705-689-3594 or email him at dwestcott@townshipofsevern. com.

Paddle down Muskoka Street By Ellen Cohen

Samples of some of the paddles the Washago Art Club members have painted. They will be displayed in the village until the fall. The Villager reported in previous issues, twenty-four 6’ paddles will be displayed in the village of Washago during the summer months. This display of art is concurrent with Ontario’s Lake Country’s mapping of local paddling routes. (See page 25) This initiative was a successful joint venture: Severn Township paid for the cost of materials; local volunteer and councillor for Ward 5, Donald Westcott carved out the paddles; and the Washago Art Club members

took on the responsibility of producing the art on the surface of each of the paddles. The only instructions artist and art teacher, Doug Cooper gave to the twenty members of the Washago Art Club was ‘do what you want.” The artists went to work on the paddles and the results did not surprise him. “It’s important to let artists express themselves and our club is filled with remarkably talented men and women with great imaginations. The artists’ creations speak for themselves,” Doug said about the artists and their pieces of outdoor art. Still to be finalized is the approval from Hydro. It’s a requirement before placing the paddles on poles along Muskoka Street. Councillor Westcott, although cautiously optimistic, wasn’t sure if this would be forthcoming before the beginning of June and, until approval is given, the paddles will not be displayed outdoors. In the meantime, you do have an opportunity to view the art. Donald and his volunteer team gained permission from several businesses and shops in the area to display the paddles. The canoe paddles will be on display until October and are currently not for sale. However, no surprise to Doug Cooper, as soon as a few paddles were

displayed in a local shop in midMay, at least one merchant was asked to sell them. It seems that this interest has generated a germ of an idea - there just might be the opportunity to buy the paddles sometime after the summer season. The Villager will report on this if this idea comes to fruition.

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Ask questions before buying a cottage By Blake Begy Cottage season has officially begun and cottaging is arguably the favourite summer pastime of many Canadians. It’s no surprise that at some point many Canadians consider purchasing a cottage of their own. And while many think of their cottage as a solid real estate investment, purchasing a cottage without doing all your homework can lead to serious headaches. There are five key questions to ask yourself before diving in to cottage ownership. 1. How much use will the property realistically get? Summers are short and schedules are busy. How much will the cottage actually be used? Do you plan on renting it out to supplement your income? 2. Have you considered all the

costs? There are costs associated with the purchase of a cottage beyond the initial price tag. Additional costs such as taxes, maintenance, and travel should all be budgeted. 3. Have you shopped around? Popular cottage destinations can lead to overheated markets. Have you done enough research and considered all the options? 4. Is it a good investment? Buying a cottage may mean that most of your savings are in real estate, does this make sense for you financially? Will the property appreciate? 5. What financing is available to you? Cottages often fall into one of two categories and not all cottages qualify for traditional mortgages. ‘Type A’ properties include cottages that can be utilized all year road and have features similar to residential homes such as running water and central heating systems.

‘Type B’ cottages, on the other hand, are classified as more rustic properties with minimal creature comforts and are often not winterized. Financing for ‘Type A’ properties is often treated like financing a second home with traditional mortgage options applicable to them. ’Type B’ properties are not eligible for traditional mortgages and instead, personal loans are often extended to finance the property. Interested cottage buyers should do their research and work with a trusted financial advisor and real estate agent to make sure they’re getting the best possible value in their cottage investment. Blake Begy CLU, CFP, RRC is a senior wealth advisor with Meridian Credit Union. 705-325-2288, ext.7209, Blake.Begy@Meridiancu.ca.

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A busy month ahead! By Lioness Jean Stephens

It’s nice to see all our snowbirds back – and a big welcome to our summer residents. The Lioness have a busy June planned, starting with our popular Court Whist on Wednesday, June 8th at 10:30 p.m. The doors open at 9:45 a.m. Come share a cup of coffee and catch up on what’s happening in Washago. Make sure you arrive early because space is limited. We will swear in our new executive on June 14th. Zone Chair, Jim Rice will do the honours. The new executive are: President, Estelle Ness; I (Jean Stephens) will assume the title of past-president and will also be our secretary; Pat Stead will be 1st Vice-President;

Paula McFadden will stay on as treasurer. As usual, our club members will participate in the Washago Canada Day festivities. Please watch for us on Muskoka Street and consider buying a 50/50 ticket. All profits from the sale of the tickets will be used for community initiatives such as various charities, camps, etc. We will also be donating to Fort McMurray fundraising efforts. Helpful hint: Plant one wildflower to help our bees survive. If you Google ‘Honey Nut Cheerios’, the website will give you instructions on how to receive a free package of wildflower seeds.

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Give grassland birds a helping hand By Ron Reid I have a soft spot in my heart for bobolinks. For the past 30 years, our little business has been called Bobolink Enterprises. Bobolink artwork graces our mantle. Years ago, when our kids played T-ball, we sponsored a team we called the Bobolinks. The major leagues have their Blue Jays and their Orioles, so why not? Bobolinks have spunk. Male bobolinks get noticed by rising out of the tall grasses and hovering just a few feet above the hay, rolling out an enthusiastic medley of notes and burbles, glorious in their complexity. If you direct your attention to one of these songsters, you will see a chubby bird with a bold pattern of black and white on its topside, set off by a creamy yellowish patch on the head and neck, and black underparts. Sadly, bobolink numbers in Ontario have plummeted more than 80% since I was a boy, and they are officially designated as a threatened species. The number one cause of this decline is the loss of the hayfields and pastures where they nest. In many parts of southern Ontario, these grasslands have disappeared as corn and soybeans take over as the primary crops. North Simcoe remains one of the remaining centres of abundance for bobolinks, largely because many fields here are still managed as pasture for beef cattle and hay for winter feed. Most pasture fields in this vicinity keep a fair amount of patchy grass until late in the season, which works well for the bobolinks that hide their nests in the grass. But hayfields offer a more difficult challenge in balancing the needs of the farmers with the needs of the birds. The reason for this conflict is directly linked to timing. When bobolinks return from their winter home in Argentina in mid-May, they are attracted to the rapidly growing grasses of hayfields, especially fields larger than 10 acres. Loose colonies of half-a-dozen bobolinks build their nests somewhere in the interior of their chosen fields. By the last week of June or early July, depending on the weather, their young birds are ready to leave the nest and learn to fly. But if hay is cut before those fledged

young can fly to a safe haven, nearly all of them are killed, either by machinery or by predators who can now find them easily. Farmers need good-quality hay, and leaving harvest until mid-July results in significant decreases in its quality. But there are some things that a farmer can do. If a farm has three hayfields, for example, the bobolinks are likely to be in the oldest, grassiest field, because they don’t like alfalfa. So cut that field last. Nesting bobolinks also avoid field edges, so the common practice of cutting 8 or 10 rounds and leaving the centre of the field to harvest later, is another helpful technique. Many part-time farmers with too little time don’t get to cutting hay until well into July – those procrastinators are heroes to bobolink-lovers!

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Bobolinks, spunky and enthusiastic birds, make their winter home in Argentina and return to our area in mid-May. Bobolinks and other grassland birds will only remain as a vital part of the rural landscape with the help of farmers and other landowners, and I admire those who try to protect them as part of their land management. 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.

Wild game dinner a gastronomic success On Saturday, April 23rd, The Rotary Club of Washago hosted their annual Wild Game Dinner. Guests were treated to a most delicious and sold out dinner at the Washago Community Centre. Chef Jordan, his sous chefs and volunteers, prepared a scrumptious meal consisting of appetizers, soup, several wild meats, root vegetables and sauces. Dishes were also contributed by Chef Ian Thompson of R Cottage in Washago, and Chef Derek Mayes of The Grape and Olive in Orillia. A variety of desserts were prepared by Rotary Club members. Fifty of the guests went fishing in the inaugural “Fishing Derby” and took home some

wonderful prizes, all donated by local merchants. A good time was had by all. See you again next year for our 12th annual wild game dinner. Canada Day Bacon As usual, Rotary members will be cooking up back bacon on a bun on the main street of Washago on Canada Day. Enjoy a yummy ‘sammie’ knowing all proceeds go back into your community. Canoe Draw This year you could win a 15’ Alchemist canoe with lifejackets and paddles donated by the Muskoka Paddle Shack. The draw will be held on September 10th. To get your ticket find A highlight of the evening was the first-ever Rotary fishing derby. a Rotarian or look for us on Participants were guaranteed a prize with a value of not less than $20. Canada Day. The derby sold out in under 40 minutes.

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Honouring a hardworking Lion By Sandra Crawford, Past President

The Coldwater Lions Club, Orillia Lions Club and past Lion members and guests, joined us at the Washago & District Lions Hall for a visitation dinner on Monday, May 9th. We all spent time before the dinner to meet with our fellow Lions. After a delicious dinner and amazing deserts, we got down to the business at hand, including discussing the many future events that need to be organized. Our speaker for the evening was past Washago Lion member, Roy Klementti. He had many stories to tell of his experiences. He said he’s had lots of fun while working hard for the club. Another highlight of the evening was a presentation by Washago Lion president, Jim Rice. He presented Norm Mason, a fifty-year Lions member with The Melvin Jones Fellowship award, one of the highest honours achieved by the Lions Club. Also, to Norm’s Washago Lions president, Jim Rice (left) presents the Melvin Jones delight, he received a lifetime membership. Norm, who gives Fellowship award to Lion Norm Mason. encouragement to everyone, is one of the most dedicated Lions in our club. CANADA DAY WEEKEND LIONS EVENT Thank-you to the 37 Lions and guests who attended. You made Friday, July 1st and Saturday, July 2nd the evening a great success. We’ll serve our famous pancake breakfast on the morning of July 1st. We’ll have live music, a cash bar and dancing on the patio with more food available. Free draw for kids. JAM NIGHT with Jam Man Dougie Wednesday, June 15th, 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome – play, sing or dance.

Saturday, July 2nd we’ll have a morning breakfast followed by Karaoke (‘Garyokey’ by Karaoke Sue). Live music and bar.

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Severn Township Highlights Ward 3 - Filling empty spot on council As we all know, the councillor representing Ward 3, Ian Crichton passed away on March 9, 2016, leaving big shoes to fill at the council table. To address the Ward 3 position that is now open, at the council meeting of May 5, 2016, staff presented council with the legal municipal options available to them regarding Ian’s replacement. Those options are to hold a Ward 3 by-election; or the appointment of a candidate through an application process. After much discussion, council voted 4-2 to opt for the latter. “In my opinion, holding a by-election is not the best answer at this time,” says Mayor Mike Burkett about his vote to select a replacement councillor through an appointment process, not through a byelection. “Voter turn-out for by-elections is historically very low, somewhere near the 30% mark. Combined with the fact that a by-election would cost about $20,000.00, I believe that through appointment, we will end up with an excellent replacement councillor.” The mayor added a third reason for his vote. He said that

by the time a new councillor is elected, after a 6 week election campaign, there would still be time needed for that person to be trained. By the time that takes place, he said, we’d be only about 1 ½ years away from preparing for a new 4-year term and a township-wide election. An appointment will be much quicker which means we continue more smoothly with the work at hand for the township and especially Ward 3. Interest for the Ward 3 council position has been good. As of May 19th, the day of The Villager interview and just before press time, Sharon Goerke, township clerk said, “We have received five applications. I also have some other inquiries that may lead to even more applications.” She added that on May 25th, which was the deadline for applications, council agreed on what procedure will be followed to move through the steps necessary to get a Ward 3 councillor at the table. Those details are available on the township website. It isn’t unusual to replace a councillor using an appointment procedure, especially when it is so well into a council term. In fact, Severn Township decided to follow this process several times in past council terms.

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When seats became available mid-term, Councillors Mark Taylor and the late Ian Crichton earned their first term seats on council by way of appointment. Also, many years ago, MP Bruce Stanton started his political career after being appointed to fill a spot.

wide range of prices and ideas. Seventeen firms have sent tenders. Sharon Goerke says that part of the reason there are so many tenders is that recreation coordinator, Pat Harwood is very involved in the township and all recreation files. “It’s obvious Pat has communicated well with the broader community,” says Sharon. The prices quoted in the tenders ranges from $180K to over $500 K. A report regarding the tenders went from staff to council on May 25th when, said Sharon Goerke, the discussions on how to proceed began. Because the tender packages are large and so varied, staff has had to go through the detail carefully before making recommendations. “To help offset the final cost of the community centre, we’ll also seek out grants,” said the mayor. “One thing I truly believe is that now is the time to move forward and finish this project. If we wait longer, costs will only go up.” The township hopes to break ground next year.

Ward 4 Community Centre Sharon Goerke, the township clerk told The Villager that township staff and council are very excited to be able to announce the location of the new community centre in Ward 4. It will be on Menoke Beach Road, a parcel of land that is part of a property exchange. Parkland that is currently owned by the township, on Highway 11 just south of Webers, will be exchanged for an equal-sized piece of parkland on Menoke Beach Road, a parcel that belonged to a new home developer. The location of the new community centre will have highway access as well as access through a new walking trail that will connect directly to the community centre. Tenders are open for the New home starts +400% architectural drawings and Mayor Burkett reports that Mayor Burkett said they’ve new home starts have gone had an unusually high number through the roof in Severn of submissions so far, with a Continued on page 22

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Parks and trails ready for you! Activities and Rentals Check out the various activities at the Washago Community Centre, Severn Township Public Library in Coldwater, the Lake St. George Hall, and Matchedash Uhthoff Trail Heritage Community Centre. The County of Simcoe has Rental space is also available at approved the township’s these facilities for large or small application for the Trails gatherings. Connecting Communities Program. Granular trail work Volunteers Needed will begin and trail head signage Need volunteer hours for high will undergo some structural school or just want to fill some of your spare time by helping repairs. your community? Contact Sports fields Pat Harwood at the township The better weather means that offices for details! all diamonds and soccer pitches are full of players of all ages. If you have any recreation Contact the township offices questions or concerns, please to book your ball games and call the township offices at 705practices. 325-2315, extension 253 or visit www.townshipofsevern.com. Park Improvements Improvements to various parks throughout the township are underway now that the good weather is finally here! PROFESSIONAL SALES & INSTALLATION

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Updates on important legislation By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton

It has been a busy few weeks as the government begins implementing its budget and bringing forward legislation on a range of issues that it has promised to address. In previous columns, I’ve discussed the government’s legislation on medicalassistance in dying. I want you to know, after careful reflection and consideration, I have decided that I will support the government’s legislation on this subject (Bill C-14). This is not a decision I’ve taken lightly, but I believe C-14 mirrors the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in the Carter case that precipitated it, and support giving those suffering from a grievous and irremediable medical condition from accessing such assistance. Additionally, as the existing Criminal Code provisions relating to medical-assistance in dying have been struck down, I believe the alternative to passing C-14 by the June 6th deadline, which would be the complete absence of any regulation around medicalassistance in dying, is simply not an option. It should be noted that the government identified three areas with respect to medical-assistance in dying that require further study: requests by mature minors; the use of advance directives (providing consent to medical-assistance in dying before the person loses the competency to do so); and requests where the sole underlying condition is mental illness. I will

continue to follow this debate and update you on any new developments. The government also made news in late April, when it announced that it will bring forward legislation to legalize marijuana in the spring of 2017. Former Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair, who is now MP for Scarborough Southwest and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice, has been tasked with leading this effort. Again, I will provide additional updates on this issue as they occur. The final update is on the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement on which the government is consulting with Canadians to determine whether to support it or not. The TPP is an agreement between twelve countries: Canada, the United States, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Brunei, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, Chile and Peru. These countries represent over 800 million people, and a combined Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $28.5 trillion. I supported the TPP during the previous election campaign as I believe it gives Canadian companies preferential access to important markets, particularly in fast-growing Asia. Canadians are invited to review the details of the agreement at www.international. gc.ca/TPP, and can provide their input for the government’s consideration at TPP-PTP. consultations@international.gc.ca

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Follow the yellow rooster to studio tour With files from The Coldwater Studio Tour press release May, 2016 The first Coldwater Studio Tour was in 2002. It was launched with a simple yellow brochure featuring the now iconic rooster, perched on a weather vane with a clear message “Follow the yellow weather vane signs to see incredible works of art.” At that time, seventeen artists and crafts people were the pioneers of this wonderful tour. Some of those original artists and artisans included Ann Hallett, Rob Root, Deb Tice, Richard Joliffe, and Tom Henderson. Three of the 2002 originals are

still on the tour - Mark Tumber, Pamela King, and Helen Will. This year, there are 37 artists involved at sixteen different locations. The tour takes place from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 25th and Sunday, June 26th. The tour still displays yellow signs, still with its iconic rooster, that will help guide you to the locations. You can find all of the information by visiting www.coldwaterstudiotour.com.

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That forest behind your house is an asset too By Mark Bisset When trying to sell homes, real estate agents use every tool at their disposal to get an edge in a competitive market. In real estate advertising, you will either encounter references to the surrounding landscape, or stony silence on the issue. That’s consistent with the universal real estate mantra: Location, location, location. These days, as the heat from the hot Toronto real estate market starts warming things up here, it’s worth noting that when it comes to home values, natural settings command a premium. In addition to references to conservation lands close to homes on the market, you’ll also come across frequent references to trails, parks, county forests and other green amenities. Of course, waterfront is the gold standard when it comes to natural settings. Why? continued on page 21

The Alexander Hope Smith Trail, a prime example of an asset that increases the value of nearby homes. Photo by Gayle Carlyle.

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21 Protected pieces of nature add value to residential property. Real estate agents have a good handle on the things that make us tick. The best realtors tend to understand what people value in neighbourhoods. Judging by the frequency of references to conserved natural spaces, they rank fairly high on the list of things that make up the good life. But it’s not just the proximity of nature that appeals to potential home-buyers. When choosing a place to live, people also look for stability. They don’t want to choose a nice setting, only to have it radically altered a few years down the road. Conservation lands offer that stability. If you purchase a home that backs onto a protected forest, you can rest easy that when you look out your window a decade later, you will still see mature trees instead of high density residences, a sea of rooftops, or an industrial park. There is good research that backs up the positive effects of conservation lands on residential real estate values. In addition to all the other benefits natural areas provide, a real argument can be made for the positive economic impact they have on a community.

In the experience of The Couchiching Conservancy, campaigns to protect local natural settings are often driven by local residents. Alexander Hope Smith Nature Reserve and the Thomas C. Agnew Nature Reserve all had great support from donors in the Washago area. While realtors get the big picture, it’s interesting that the benefits protected areas provide are sometimes lost on the owners of houses adjacent to conservation lands. While most residents cherish their natural settings, a small minority abuse them by using them as dumps for yard waste and unwanted items, or by extending their own personal space with encroachments. Any land owner will tell you that there is a tendency for people to view any land left to nature as fair game, suspending all the respect for private property that is usually extended to neighbours. Luckily though, the majority of residents around conservation lands see them for the local blessing that they

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are, and Washago residents in particular seem to treat our reserves with respect. Many are active supporters of the work of the Conservancy, and they watch over the protected portions of their neighbourhood with joy. Rightly so. For home-owners, that green space is like money in the bank.

Mark Bisset is the Executive Director of The Couchiching Conservancy, a non-government, non-profit land trust that protects natural spaces in the region both for today, and for future generations. For more information on the Conservancy, go to www.couchichingconserv.ca.

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Give your pets a chance

Severn Township Highlights

By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer

Continued from page 17

Our pets are part of the family, but we don’t always take them with us when we travel and they are left at home alone. This leaves them in a vulnerable situation should a fire emergency occur. Every family should have a “Home Escape Plan” and an “Emergency Preparedness Kit/plan”. Our pets should be included in both plans. This includes what might happen while you are not home. Whoever is looking after your pets should have a copy of your plan and know the location of your emergency preparedness kit. Because an emergency may mean boarding pets, your kit(s), one for each pet should include pet food, veterinary paperwork including vaccination records,

prescriptions (if any) and a photo/description of each pet. Include a floor plan showing hiding places your pet likes to help emergency responders find them. Your emergency plan should include designates - one family member to be responsible for each pet. Once outside the house, you should gather at a meeting place a safe distance from the home. Remember minutes count. If you don’t see your pet immediately on your way out, leave a door open and call the pet’s name as you leave. Animals have a natural fear of fire and will attempt to get away though an open door, window or pet door. Keep leashes and carriers near the door for easy and safe removal of your pets.

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To alert emergency responders, some home owners use an identifying label or sticker on their front door that notes the type and number of pets inside the home. This provides some peace of mind knowing that even when you are not home there may be some help for your little friends. Severn Fire & Emergency Services provides pet stickers for pet owners who wish to use them. Next time you are into the township office, please ask for one. It could save your pets life. If you have any questions about a fire safety product or fire safety around the home, please call the Fire Prevention Division at 705-325-2315, ext. 248.

Township, not only in West Shore but throughout the township. By the end of April, 2016, thirty-one new dwellings had been started. Last year, for the same time period, there were only six, a 417% increase. “An extra 25 new dwellings is pretty astonishing for such a small township,” he says. “The township has no new industry so the money generated from new builds is important new revenue. This is important to residents because new revenue growth impacts, in a positive way, the taxes our residents pay.” • 7 0 5-71 7-03 2 2 •

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Launch of guide to local paddling routes As The Villager reported earlier this spring, Ontario’s Lake Country (OLC) and their partners teamed up to develop and map 10 paddling routes in the region. OLC’s partners and funders includes Regional Tourism organization 7 and Tourism Simcoe County. They were also able to work with paddling guru, Mike Bartlett to develop the routes. The details for those routes are now available in the 32-page Paddling Guide. Educational and user-friendly, the guide is available on smart phones, tablets or desktops at www.PaddleLakeCountry.com. The guide lays out diverse paddling routes that range from 5-15 kilometres in length. It includes safety tips, information about local outfitters, special events and fishing as well as points of interest and degree of difficulty. For those who like to stay close to home, three of the 10 mapped routes are local: Black River to Wasdell Falls, a 3-3.5 hour easy loop, starting at Poplar Lane in Washago; Paddle North Lake Couchiching 1.5-3 hour easyintermediate loop, starting at the Quetton

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We see what you don’t !

RIVER WATCH Customized Cottage Patrol & Services

We respond to alarms and secure your property.

Grass & Snow Maintenance • Open & Close Cottages Call or email Danny at:

705-689-8738 • riverwatch@bell.net

BRUCE STANTON, M.P. SIMCOE NORTH

575 West St. S., Unit 12 Orillia, ON L3V 7N6 Tel: 705-327-0513 • Fax: 705-327-8310 bruce.stanton@parl.gc.ca www.brucestanton.ca

• REPAIRS - chainsaws, lawn mowers, riding mowers, snowblowers. Pick up available.

• SHARPENING – chainsaws, mower blades, scissors, drill bits, household knives and more!

• SALE of chainsaws, parts and bulk chain

PAT’S PIT Course Sand &

Course Sand with Stone Use for septic installations; road or building construction & more.

Loading by Appointment Ask about our

Outdoor Furnaces

Canadian Design & Manufactured

Call Pat Paterson 705-345-2732

2537 Grass Lake Line, Washago

Preplanning made easy and affordable Did you know that there is a payment option to fit everyone’s budget? We work with you, your wishes and your budget. Call for a no-obligation quotation today. Jon Griffiths LFD

Preplanning Specialist Funeral Home - Cremation Centre - Reception/Celebration Facilities 54 Coldwater St E Orillia, Ont. 705-326-3595

www.carsonfuneralhomes.com

28 info@GeorgianBayPrinters.com 705.327.5152 PHONE 705.327.5150 FAX

OFFSET & DIGITAL PRINTING Your Local Commercial & Retail Print Store

Take Advantage of our

JUNE SPECIALS 10 LAWN SIGNS

$179.oo 18”x24”

ENVELOPES

Colour - #10 - No Window

BUSINESS CARDS

$150.00

Qty 250 - $31.50 Qty 500 - $52.18 Qty 1000 - $79.00

Colour - 34x84 + Hardware

ready to print file must be submited.

Colour - 2 Sided - 14Pt

REDEEM ME IN JUNE │ SOME CONDITIONS MAY APPLY │ SPECIAL MUST BE MENTIONED AT TIME OF ORDER. NOT TO BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER PROMOTIONS OR DISCOUNT.

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STAND - UP BANNER

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4MM COROPLAST FULL COLOUR TWO SIDED

FREE DELIVERY

Orillia & Surrounding Areas! *Some Conditions Apply.

DO YOU NEED BUSINESS CARDS, FLYERS OR POSTERS? WE COVER ALL YOUR OFFSET & DIGITAL PRINTING NEEDS... Over 1 Million Comic Books in Stock! Vintage Toys • Statues • Gaming - Magic, War Hammer & D&D Large Apparel Selection • Annual Store Memberships Available

WE BUY COMICS & TOYS! 79 Mississaga Street East at Peter 705-418-1050 www.drcomics.ca

Rustic seasonal cooking at its best By Chef Becky

Rustic tomato and basil sauce • 1 lb. of fresh cherry tomatoes whole, or any local tomato diced into 1 inch cubes • ¼ cup of the best possible olive oil • cracked black pepper, to taste • sea salt, to taste • 3 cloves minced garlic • 1 cup freshly torn basil (oregano or thyme can work as well) With only a handful of ingredients, this sauce will become one of Use a cast iron pan if you have one and an open fire - if you have your favourites. one! Or use your best frying pan cooked on stove top. Drizzle olive oil into pan and heat on medium. Toss in garlic. Heat to hot, but not to burn garlic, just until golden. Carefully place tomatoes in hot oil, away from you so not to splash with hot oil. Toss a couple of times to coat in oil. On high heat stir occasionally for 5 minutes or until tomatoes just start to break. It’s important to not let them become mushy. Season with salt and pepper. Toss in fresh basil, keeping a little aside to use for garnish. Spoon onto fresh grilled baguette or top whole wheat pasta with grated parmigiana. Awesome!! Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE!

2015 T A C D L WI TRAIL Staring at

$9,995

Excludes freight, dealer setup & taxes. Limited time offer.

The 60+ HP, 4-stroke twin combined with the TEAM Rapid Response clutch is a mainstay of the 4WD Arctic Cat lineup. Nitrogen-charged FOX shocks.

Handling takes another leap forward!

June 2

The Rotary Club of Washago & Area meetings for June are on June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 at the Washago Community Centre, 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Meet and greet, snacks, beverages, guest speaker.

June 4

4th Annual Coldwater Garage Sale, 7:00 a.m. – noon, villagewide sale. Follow the signs. Cash only. Addresses available at the Coldwater BIA Facebook page.

June 10-12

class birdwatcher, Jean Iron as she searches for Carden Alvar specialties. Free event, registration required. Only 25 spots are available. couchichingconserv.ca. 705-326-1620.

June 19 – August 21

Sunday Evening Band Concerts at Couchiching Beach Park in Orillia, from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be moved to the June 11 70th Anniversary of the Pine Grove Gordon Lightfoot Auditorium at the Women’s Institute, 2:00-4:00 p.m. Orillia Opera House. Follow us on at St. Athanasius Anglican Church, Facebook for updates. Visit the City 10 Westmount Dr., Orillia. Contact of Orillia website for band details and updates. Marion Wilson at 705-325-3710.

June 12

Orillia Spring Boat, Cottage & Outdoor Show, new and preowned boats, inflatables, offshore performance, fishing boats, cruisers. Marine, cottage and outdoor products. 12 noon–6 p.m. at Couchiching Beach Park in Orillia. 705-326-4424.

Couchiching Conservancy’s Passport to Nature – two events: Nature Photography, 8:00 a.m. noon. Only 20 spots available. Rain or shine. Nuts for Nature, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Family fun. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. couchichingconserv.ca or call 705-326-1620.

Couchiching Conservancy’s Passport to Nature, birding the Carden Alvar, 258 Dalrymple Rd., Sebright, Carden Recreation Centre. 8:00 a.m.-noon. Join world-

The Crafty Bunch sale and BBQ, 1035 Southwood Rd., Severn Bridge, Severn Hall (Women’s Institute), 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. each day. Indoor and outdoor vendors.

June 11

One stop shop and lunch.

June 18/19

June 22

Discover the Alexander Hope Smith Nature Reserve, 9:00 a.m.– 11:30 a.m. An easy walk. Discover why this property is significant in protecting species in danger of disappearing. 20 spots available. Free but pre-registration required. couchichingconserv.ca. 705-3261620.

June 25

Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce presents a large National Aboriginal Day, Chippewas boater rendezvous and fabulous of Rama First Nation, 5884 Rama decorated boat contest. Free to Rd., Rama. 5:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. the viewing public. Port of Orillia, Visit their website mnjikaning.ca for Lake Couchiching. 705-326-4424 or regular updates and details about www.orillia.com. all activities. June 25/26 Coldwater Studio tour, June 21 National Aboriginal Day, Sainte 10 a.m.–4 p.m. each day. Discover Marie Among the Hurons, all day. many works of art, photography, Singing, drumming and dancing, woodcarvings, wood turnings, displays, demonstrations, crafts for weaving, quilts, handmade rugs, kids, waterway and lacrosse, Native ironworks, baskets, masks, wall hangings and other treasures. crafters and more. 705-526-7838. www.coldwaterstudiotour.com.

June 21

We all love a parade so join in the fun and enter a float to help make this year’s Washago Canada Day Parade the best ever! Floats must be pre-registered before July 1st.

Entry forms can be obtained at the Washago Community Centre or online at www.townshipofsevern.com

20 Wash16 Cana ago d Butt a Day $2 ons

.00 e

•

2:00 p.m. Parade commences. At the end of the parade, we’ll announce the winners of the Kids’ Bike Contest and Parade Entries.

u r Co m m u

p t y S i ri t

We’ll announce the winners of the Bike Contest after the parade at the community centre.

1:45 p.m. Opening Ceremonies and greetings from Dignitaries at the main stage, Muskoka Street

1:00 p.m. Judging commences

1:00 p.m. Muskoka Street is closed to traffic and the parade formation begins at the St. Francis of Assisi Church area. Participants please sign in with the Parade Marshall at the church parking lot.

e • W

12:30 p.m. Bike contestants form at the Washago Community Centre

Parade Schedule on July 1st Sho

Kids’ Bike Contest

a B u tt o n

CAKE CUTTING - join us after the parade and enjoy a piece of our special Canada Day cake!

PLUS! More Events for the Whole Family

Time

Location

Street Vendors

8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Muskoka Street

Washago Lions Pancake Breakfast

8:00 a.m.-Noon

Washago Lions Hall, Hamilton Street

Strawberry Shortcake

10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Heritage United Church, Muskoka Street

Pulled Pork Sandwich & Specialty Item Vendors

10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Quetton Street

Bacon on a Bun, Rotary Club of Washago

10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Jax Bootery, 3381 Muskoka Street

Salad Plate Lunch/Bake Sale, Craft & Yard Sale

11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

St. Francis of Assisi Church, Muskoka Street

Live Entertainment

Noon

Main Stage, Muskoka Street

Face Painting by Alyson Taylor

Noon–2:00 p.m.

Muskoka Street Business Section

Music, Food and Refreshments

Noon-8:00 p.m.

Washago Lions Hall, Hamilton Street

Cooling / Rest Station

1:00–4:30 p.m.

Washago Community Centre

See the creative & amazing Washago Arts Club display at the Washago Community Centre!

www.washagocommunitycentre.com

The Washago Community Centre Corpor would like to THANK all organizations, c ation and the Canada Day Parade Committee lubs and v olunteers w ho help make this day happen! Public washrooms are available at the Washago Community Centre.

Roasts, Chops, Ground Beef, Chicken & more • Always AAA Cuts •

Great variety of Vegetables and Fruit

Ask our butcher to custom cut steaks or roasts to your liking!

Fresh to create a great meal!

Canoe Signature Sandwiches Meals to Go • Quiche Meat Pies • Salads Take-to-Bake Pizzas & More! Looking for a quick lunch or dinner, this Deli is for you!

DELICIOUS HOMEMADE PIES • Fruit and Cream •

Freshly Pressed to each cup! Buy a Canoe Cream Cheese Tub and 4-pack of Bagels and get a

FREE French Press Coffee or Tea. Only on Wednesdays through to May.

Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Shag Fog, Chai Tea Latte, Green Tea Latte or Tea – all with a fresh bakery item or lunch from our Deli.

There are always specials at Canoe Fresh Food Market. Drop in to see what we have for you this week!

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