The Villager 2020 June by Villager Community News

June 2020

Business women celebrated. . . . . . 8 Mental health care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Share your vision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Help for small business. . . . . . . . . . 19

Growing your own? Keep your eye on the prize! By Karen Kahle In normal times, most people plant a few tomato plants, maybe a cucumber or two; some might have a small vegetable garden with enough to harvest occasional summer salads and maybe can some tomatoes. But generally, most of the veggies we eat come from the local grocery store or farmers’ markets. But these are not normal times. The fear and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has permeated our lives. We have self-isolated, social distanced, worried about most everything, and developed a deep concern about potential food shortages. The result of all this anxiety: by April of this year, so many people were planning vegetable gardens, other shortages were created – vegetable seeds, starter soil, and those little peat pots that are used to grow seedlings indoors. By late May came the second onslaught those who chose to wait to buy seedlings at a greenhouse or garden centre. They lined up at curbside pickups, sometimes for a very long time, and soon depleted much of the available stock. Sales of vegetable plants skyrocketed. New vegetable gardeners learned that getting from seed, to seedling, to planting

in the garden is an activity not for the faint of heart, especially if you started with seeds. The job of nurturing seeds and the resulting tiny seedlings takes a lot of time, focus and discipline. But even if you started with seedlings, the garden needs to be created. It can be very difficult physical work: digging into the ground where there might be clay, rocks and other surprises; then replenishing the soil; hoeing; raking; and eventually planting. But, the end result is a joy to behold. There will be homegrown vegetables later this summer and into the fall. A word of caution - be careful as the summer moves on. It can be tempting to skip visits to the garden. Try not to let this happen. Neglect, even for a few days, especially as the summer heats up, could

ruin your harvest. All the plans you made back in March, when food shortages were a real and very scary thing, could fall apart. At the end of the season, even if there isn’t an eventual shortage of vegetables in grocery stores, you’ll be glad you put so much work into your garden and proud that you and your family have accomplished so much together during an incredibly difficult time. Next year, guaranteed, your garden will need far less back-breaking work to get it ready for planting. Growing your own vegetables gives you the most nutritious, delicious, freshest, and juiciest. This is your prize! Karen Kahle is the proprietor of Fern Forest Garden Centre, www.fernforest.ca

Are you considering a real estate move this year? When you’re ready, let’s talk about your goals and explore the options available in our local market. Your best interests are always my first priority.

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Let’s walk a careful path to recovery together By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton As we enter the third month of these unusual times, we may now at least begin to consider the steps to restart the economy and resume our lives, even if with some continuing restrictions. Front line workers, health care professionals, businesses - all of us together - have contributed to slowing the community spread of Covid-19. We seem to have avoided overwhelming our healthcare system. Provinces are carefully monitoring public health and calling for continued social distancing, while starting to re-open more non-essential businesses and public spaces. At the time of writing this article, the Province of Ontario is starting to give the first all-clear for some businesses to reopen. This is a good sign, but we should not be under any illusion that the path back to normal will be short. This path must include continuing habits that limit the spread of the virus: social distancing, the use of facemasks in public, and regular hand-washing. I believe we need to, and can, get back to our work and our livelihoods while keeping ourselves and those around us safe. The federal government has quickly rolled out far-reaching programs to help support individuals and businesses impacted by the economic shutdown. For workers laid off because their employer’s businesses were closed or revenues plummeted due to COVID-19, the CERB program is providing $2,000 per month until mid-July. Under new rules they can even earn up to $1,000 per month in freelance or part-time work and still collect the CERB. This won’t be an

ideal situation for most people in these types of lay-offs, but it will prevent them from getting too far behind. The G.S.T. credit and enhanced Canada Child Benefit will also help families to meet their financial commitments and purchase their essential supplies. And in the 2nd week of May, we learned seniors and pensioners will get a one-time $300 increase to OAS and $200 for GIS. Local post-secondary students and recent graduates who are dependent on summer employment to fund their education and skills training may apply for the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) which provides $1,250 per month ($2,000 for disabled or with dependents) from May through to August. Enhanced student loans, grants and a freeze on loan re-payment are also available to help. To help businesses in Simcoe North, the federal emergency response programs, such as the 75% wage subsidy (CEWS), the Canada Emergency Business Account

($40,000 no-interest, guaranteed loan) have helped many. And for those small businesses in our area for whom these programs have not worked, Canada’s community futures development corporations (such as the Orillia Area CDC) are being funded with $287 million to fill some of these gaps. The staff and I are staying busy with the steady flow of announcements coming from the federal government, all aimed at helping workers and businesses get through the effects of this unprecedented shutdown. I support these measures as does my party, but realize they cannot be sustained for a long period of time. This next phase will be important – reopening our economy and communities while staying safe and stopping the spread of COVID-19. Please visit my website brucestantonmp.ca for updates, or call my office 705-327-0513 or 1-800-265-6228. Heather and I hope that you and your families are managing well. Stay in touch.

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.

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4 From the Publisher:

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

Turtles are quite a common sight in Severn Township. If you’re quiet and observant, you’ll see them in almost every local park and alongside marshes. They might be sunning themselves on floating logs, walking along the water’s edge, or even sitting in the middle of a path. Of the eight turtle species in Ontario, the snapping turtle is the most dramatic in appearance. It’s also the largest Ontario turtle, identified by its round flat shell with serrated edges at the rear, massive legs, webbed feet, long, sharp claws. A long tail with a row of spikes completes its prehistoric look. As big and nasty as snapping turtles can appear, their very survival is fragile. They take about 20 years to reach sexual maturity and then, according to ontarioturtles.ca, they need to lay 1,500 eggs over the course of 59 years to reproduce themselves. It’s a staggering thought.

It’s turtle time. Be careful.

Snapping turtle The other 7 species of Ontario turtles also take many years to mature. They, too, need to lay an inordinate number of eggs in their lifetime in order to survive as a species. Please don’t make it any more difficult for these wonderful creatures. Be mindful when driving local roads. They have little defence against their two deadly enemies: the automobile and the driver. Slow down. Give them a clear, safe path to their destination. Contact ontarioturtle.ca if you have questions, or to learn how to safely move turtles, visit the Canadian Wildlife Federation blog.

Social distancing taking its toll When my younger sister leaves my place after we’ve had a driveway visit, or I leave my twin sister’s back yard after having had a masked and social distanced walk around her garden, I feel sad. I don’t feel right. No hug. No walking arm in arm. No sitting close together to giggle or tell secrets. No sitting in the kitchen eating sweets and drinking coffee. Everything is different and, I admit, I am a bit on edge. I sometimes feel cranky. Why, as time goes by, am I becoming increasingly cranky about social distancing rather than simply falling into a new groove? Am I alone in feeling this way? Intellectually, I have accepted the fact that this is the world for now. To help emotionally, I’ve developed some simple coping skills. I take deep breaths, stand up, stretch, walk around the house, step onto the deck and get some fresh air. Sometimes I take a nice long walk, or I’ll just sit quietly outside, look for shapes in the clouds. I listen more carefully to the birds singing and marvel at how this is just another day for them, although I’m sure the volume of their songs has increased equal to the amount of cleaner air and less traffic noise. I have also been taking more time to review what makes me feel thankful. Loving family, some close by and others on Zoom; neighbours who care; a roof over my head; terrific friends, some who laugh at my ‘Covid hair do’; and a good supply of ice cream and chocolate sauce. On a regular basis, I review the health guidelines and remind myself not to relax hand washing or social distancing and I wear a face mask when in more crowded public quarters such as grocery stores. Those who reject these simple guidelines boggle my mind. What are they thinking? Don’t they care? Why would they think I want to share their cough or sneeze? Don’t they know they could be a carrier? They should be fined. They frighten me.…see, I’m getting cranky again. Time for a walk and maybe a Zoom call with a friend. Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.

Checking out the local birds birds must have been increasingly anxious to reach their nesting grounds, we birders In this strange year were itching with impatience to greet them. of Covid-19, we are Both the birds and we birders share an all doing our best instinctive knowledge that their time here to socially isolate and avoid unnecessary in the north will be short – by early June travel. That has been tough for everyone. they must be on their nests and feeding For those of us who love watching birds, we are missing the thrill of the chase and the joy of shared enthusiasm in being with flocks of fellow birders. That means travelling to places like Point Pelee or Rondeau in the month of May, where both migrating birds and birders congregate. But not this year. This year, even before the virus so disrupted our routines, I signed up for a new program with the strange name of 5MR. If I tell you this activity involves the tracking of birds within an 8 kilometre radius from your house, you can likely guess both the acronym and the country of its origin. Appropriately enough for 2020, 5MR encourages birdwatchers to discover which birds occur close to home, and to discourage people from always dashing off to distant destinations for their birding fix. For birders in this part of the world, their hobby is controlled entirely by the young; by early August many are on their seasonal nature of bird populations. Yes, way southwards again. Why do they make we do have the chickadees and nuthatches this incredible journey from the tropics or and woodpeckers that stay with us year- even beyond to spend only a few frenetic round, but those are the exceptions. From months in Canada? It’s all about the bugs – November to at least the end of February, the brief explosion of insect protein in the our variety of birdlife is decidedly thin, with north woods provides the rich nutrition most birds seen at well-stocked feeders. In that their young need. Even birds like robins March and April, the first hardy migrants or chickadees that eat berries and nuts for trickle in from the south, their arrival greatly most of the year spend their time gathering influenced by the vagaries of snowstorms caterpillars and flying insects when they and sunny mild days. This year, cold northerly have young in the nest. Washago is a great place for birders – winds held back the great burst of migration even during the first half of May. Just as the within easy reach are lakes and wetlands and By Ron Reid

diverse forests and even a few grasslands. The value of those habitats stands out in my 5MR numbers. The winter months produced only about 25 species, but the months of May and June will produce well over 125 kinds of nesting birds. All within 8 kilometres of the hamlet of Washago!

5MR is not just for serious birders – it’s also easy and fun for those who have a casual interest. Just Google 5MR birding in Ontario for information and to check out how I’m doing. But be careful – you might just get hooked on birding! 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.

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

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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.

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By the year 2036, people in Canada aged 65+ will number approximately 10 million, making seniors 25% of the population. The population of Simcoe County is aging even more rapidly. Right now, close to 16% of the residents are 65+, compared to the Canadian average of 14.8%. What can be done to make life for seniors a little better? How about larger font size on signs and price tags; more railings on steps or more efficient cleaning of ice on sidewalks; better sound quality at the theatre; more accessible parking? The list is long. Age-Friendly Simcoe County may have some suggestions or answers as to how communities could improve in the long term. The county has a staff member who has developed an Age-Friendly Community framework. Their success depends on collaboration and coordination among many partners and stakeholders. To that end, they invite seniors to become involved, either by becoming a member of the committee, or participating by providing feedback. There is an age-friendly initiative serving Orillia, Age-Friendly Orillia Advisory Committee comprised of local volunteers and a City council representative. Valerie Powell is co-chair of that committee and she comes to the group with a background in psycho-geriatrics. She is also Seniors Critic for the Green Party at the provincial and the federal level. “Twenty-five percent of Orillia’s population is already over 65. They participate in City programs and use the facilities. They shop here and own homes. And yet,” she says, “there are many barriers for seniors in Orillia. Our committee is determined to help fix that.” Valerie said the committee lobbies and advocates for seniors, “Our committee is here to get input from the community and to give age friendly input for such things as new initiatives and new programs. The positive thing is that if something is age-friendly, it will be appropriate for any age, and the disabled.” Seniors in Severn can help make change. In addition to lobbying Severn council, individuals or groups can reach out to Christy Tosh at Simcoe County. She is the Age-Friendly Community Planning project lead. Call 705-726-9300, ext. 1405, or contact her by email at Christy.Tosh@simcoe.ca.

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Business women celebrated

Severn entrepreneur among nominees This year was to be the presentation of the 29th Nelle Carter Business Woman of the Year Award and the Lisa Brooking Young Woman of the Year Award. The event, always a glitzy dinner and awards evening presented by the Orillia Business Women’s Association (OBWA), has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The OBWA will regroup to determine how and when they will make the winners’ presentations. For now, the organization is eager to publicize the nominees and give them the community awareness they deserve. The following is a brief description of the nominated business women. More details can be found at orilliabusinesswomen.com. Allana George is the founder of a grassroots Facebook page called Give Orillia. Its purpose is to make contact with local families in dire need, for example those who have left abusive relationships or experiencing precarious living situations, and then provide them basic essentials. She moderates the Facebook page, collects food at her home, often delivering it, always with discretion; and will personally meet with those needing her service. She has also organized an initiative whereby young mothers can befriend each other and

exchange clothing or toys. Allana has developed a community of volunteers who help in her endeavors. Give Orillia currently has more than 3,000 followers Carolyn-Marie Goodwin, sole proprietor of Timberwolf Carolyn-Marie Goodwin Custom Carpentry in Severn Township, has been is one of the 3% of female nominated for the 2020 Nelle Carter Business Woman tradeswomen in Canada. She of the Year Award. studied at the College of Trades and is sole proprietor of Timberwolf a voice and face for women in the trades. In Custom Carpentry. She is also a member 2018 and 2019 she represented Canadian of the United Brothers of Carpenters. Her women in trades in Las Vegas as part of unique position has enabled her to become ‘Sisters in the Brotherhood’. Carolyn often Dustyn Pilger

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9 Continued from page 8 Dale McKay established WindSpirit in speaks at high schools, youth groups and Lighthouse Emergency Men’s Shelter and colleges inspiring young women to follow has been in that position since 2016. Her 2005 to provide an inclusive, nurturing their dreams. In 1918 met with Prime job includes being accountable for all day- and safe space for self-discovery and Minister Justin Trudeau, and in 2019, on to-day operations and the support of the enhancement of her clients’ soul journey. behalf of the Carpenters Union, she spoke participants, staff and volunteers, including She owned the business for 12 years. A to a Toronto group about the challenges students. Her primary responsibility is to Reiki Master, Akashic Record Consultant support the executive director but she has and an EFT Practitioner (emotional freedom women in trades face. Jenna Green is the co-owner of Georgian since been engaged in the planning process technique), she was instrumental in Chocolate, an Orillia artisanal chocolate of their new facility, a 20-bed supportive providing resources, tools, treatments and company that provides handcrafted housing complex and a 45 bed emergency classes for those beginning their journey chocolate wrapped in art. She is also the shelter/soup kitchen serving men, women, of self-discovery. For the past 5 years, Dale events and promotions coordinator at youth and families. She also took on the co- became the first professional certified Henry Bernick Entrepreneurship Centre lead of this year’s Coldest Night of the Year BioField Tuner in Ontario, one of only 28 where she integrates efficient solutions which raised more than $132,000 for the in Canada. Dale’s background in children’s education has enabled her to use her skills to serve students and clients. Her 3rd new Lighthouse/Building Hope project. in developmental psychology, endeavor is as the vice-president social services and therapeutic of administration and operations programming. with the Georgian Angel Network, Lisa Brooking Young Women a group that connects investors of The Year Nominees – with entrepreneurs needing Julianne Pires, Patrick Fogarty equity capital. Because she runs Catholic Secondary School; Emily her own business, works with Sales Representative Hawton, Twin Lakes Secondary students, nurtures partnerships Direct: 416.879.4203 School; and Alyssa Mandarino, and connects entrepreneurs with anitahouse1@gmail.com Orillia Secondary School. Visit investors, she is both a peer and a AnitaHouse.ca the OBWA website for details. mentor. orilliabusinesswomen.com Trish Holloway is the Thinking of Selling? Call for a FREE consultation! operations manager at the Orillia Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

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To our family, friends, customers and neighbours: During this difficult time, we want you to know that we offer our heartfelt prayers to each one of you. There is a light at the end of this tunnel and we wish you and your loved ones good health.

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A new, helpful safety precaution With files from John Menear As businesses begin to open their doors while there are still dangers from the COVID-19 virus, they have significant challenges. They have to protect themselves, their staff and their customers. It is a daunting responsibility. There are ways we can all help the business community while, at the same time, help each other. Before we walk into a business, we should do whatever we can to help everyone keep safe, anyone with whom we have close contact. Walk into a business with clean hands; carry hand sanitizer as an extra precaution in case you touch anything once inside; practice social distancing; and, as health experts are now suggesting, wear a face mask. A face mask does not prevent the virus but it can certainly help keep anything you might have from spreading. There is currently no cure and no vaccine for the virus and it may be a very long time before there is. This stark reality has led at least two Orillia businesses to investigate what other precautions they could take.

The Divorce Centre on Front Street North has added an innovative new body temperature scanning system which quickly identifies elevated body temperatures. A second business, Creative Nomad Studios, currently under construction on Mississaga Street, plans to use the same technology as soon as they open. The body scanning system was developed locally by Provix Inc., a company located just south of Barrie in the community of New Lowell. They have been in the thermal scanning business for 20 years. With the onset of the Covid-19 outbreak, they knew their technology could be used to detect elevated body temperatures but an equipment adaptation was necessary so that it could be used widely. They quickly developed a small unit that could be used for commercial purposes, a non-obtrusive plug-and-play system. It’s the system The Divorce Centre now uses. The scanning system does not diagnose Covid-19 but it does add another way for businesses to identify staff or customers

Body temperature scanning system who are showing the worrisome symptom of a high body temperature, potentially the sign of a virus a business owner would rather not invite inside their premises. This scanning system is not only a helpful additional precaution for the business owner, it’s one more step towards safety for customers. Dave Winfield is the contact at Provix. He is available at 705-424-9960 to answer questions from local business owners.

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It’s Challenge season By Courtney Baker, Couchiching Conservancy In past years, always in the month of May, the Carden Challenge is The Couchiching Conservancy’s annual 24-hour birding and biodiversity blitz, a time when teams compete to count bird species in the Carden Alvar. This event is one of The Conservancy’s most successful fundraisers, regularly bringing in over $20,000 dollars for local conservation. The species on the list of birds alone has included eagles, warblers, water birds, grassland birds and forest lovers that inhabit a 25 km circle. The diversity of species we’ve counted is a testament to the importance of the conservation work in the area, a story of success thanks to numerous participants and donors. For me, the Challenge is a dizzying kick off to summer,

going to bed at midnight after searching for owls that my team never seems to find, and waking up at dawn to look for warblers as they begin to sing. We’ve been rained on, sun burnt and mosquito bitten. At the end of the Challenge what we remember is the comradery and the extraordinary beauty and peace of the Alvar. We’re so proud because we’ve raised much needed funds and collected scientific data very important to conservancy. This year, it’s all different. The pandemic forced us to revise the Challenge. Instead of working side by side at the Carden Alvar, we were separated by distance but still united in our passion to save a globally rare ecosystem. In fact, this year we had a record number of

Courtney Baker with her two nieces, Sophie and Stella, her 2019 Carden Challenge teammates. volunteers from Washago to London, to the Bruce Peninsula. They have all met the Challenge, each in their own little corner of the world and within an 8 km radius of their own homes. We’re confident that once the donations are counted we’ll have reached our goal. If you are able, please visit

www.couchichingconserv.ca to donate to The Carden Challenge and enjoy photos from this and previous challenges. Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, a charitable land trust protecting nature for future generations.

It’s Business As Usual – In An Unusual Way Buying or selling in today’s market can be safe, efficient and rewarding. Let’s work together. Call me for a confidential consultation.

Dressing the Lady ‘better than 35’ We have officially re-opened

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New Hours: 10am - 3pm • Thursday, Friday, Saturday only Strict health and safety protocols along with cleaning, sanitizing and social distancing measures will be in place. We will require all customers entering our store to join us in wearing a mask for additional protection. Until we are all comfortable with this new way of shopping, we suggest you make an appointment. Please email or call and we will set up times suitable for everyone. However, if you’re in the neighbourhood please check with us.

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

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Proven Success for Buyers & Sellers With 20+ years of real estate experience, I offer you thorough, thoughtful and personal experience; extensive knowledge of Orillia and surrounding communities; pre-listing consultations; up-to-date comparisons; and complete confidentiality. Not intended to solicit properties for sale or buyers under contract.

Wild Blueberry Maple Drizzle Tarts By Chef Becky A simple, delicious and beautiful tart to serve with your favourite tea or coffee. The taste will satisfy the sweet cravings we’re all having during this time of isolation. INGREDIENTS: • ½ cup dried wild blueberries • 1 tbsp. butter • ½ cup brown sugar • 1 tsp. vanilla • ½ cup corn syrup • 1 egg • ¼ tsp. salt • Maple syrup for drizzling METHOD: Cover berries with boiling water. Let stand 5 min. Drain. Add butter, brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir until dissolved. Add slightly beaten egg, salt and vanilla. Pour into baked tart shells, ¾ full. Bake at 450° F for 10 – 15 minutes. Drizzle with maple syrup before serving. Chef Becky Lennerton is proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW RM T,

Marie Picard The health and safety of our customers is our ﬁrst priority. While we remain open to serve your needs, we have reduced our hours . Our hours of operation : Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm. We are closed on Saturdays. Please visit our website www.theupsstore.ca/107/ for our latest hours of operation.

Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy, Chiropractic, Homeopathy & Acupuncture

We are taking precautions for social distancing by limiting the number of people in the store to two at a time.

Injuries or accidents, arthritis, repetitive strain, post & pre-op, chronic pain, therapeutic and relaxation massage and more.

We have an isolated drop oﬀ area for pick-ups and drop oﬀs, and are also diligently keeping our store clean with multiple daily wipe-downs of surfaces . We can accommodate online print jobs through our e-mail , store107@theupsstore.ca We can provide curbside pick up , and you can pay by credit card or e-transfer.

Free local delivery for printing (check with store for details )

705-327-7831 200 Memorial Ave Unit # 3 ,Orillia,Ontario

LL SAFE! KEEPING US A our website Please check -to-date for the most up ols. oc ot pr 9 COVID-1

Friendly, highly-trained and experienced professionals who will respect and accommodate your needs quickly and effectively. Also available: Cupping

Visit JunctionRehabilitation.com

for a complete list of services & online booking

OR CALL 705-796-3877 7550 Rama Rd. (just a few minutes outside of Washago)

Mental Health care in Simcoe North By Jill Dunlop, MPP Simcoe North Mental health and addiction challenges have deeply touched many families over the years but we see more so now in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. This health crisis has taken a heavy toll on the everyday lives of so many and, as I work collaboratively with, and listen to groups across Simcoe North, the need for mental health care as a priority is evident. It is vital that we help people stay healthy in all ways. A movement of mental health grassroots support groups has grown and I am proud to say the government has made a commitment of $12 million specifically to support mental wellness. Ontario will now see a significant increase in access

to internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) programs to help those experiencing anxiety and depression during the pandemic. These programs are provided at no out-of-pocket costs across the province. Despite the complexities in delivering these services and supports, organizations and individuals in our community are confidently stepping up to confront this challenge together. At Ontario.ca, people can easily find information about the different virtual mental health care options that meet their unique needs, including online therapy options. Frontline health care workers whose mental health has been affected by the difficult realities of the outbreak

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.

can also access supports to help them cope. People can self-refer to programs through the various service providers, and after an assessment, those eligible will receive access to a variety of selfled modules and exercises to learn coping and resilience skills with support from a therapist. In addition, the province has established a Mental Health and Addictions COVID-19

Response Table, chaired by the Mental Health and Addictions Centre of Excellence at Ontario Health. Members include representatives from across Ontario’s mental health and addictions sector, who are working collaboratively to focus on maintaining services. Visit Ontario.ca/coronavirus, and explore the virtual mental health and wellness options available. #SimcoeNorthStrong

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!

8253 Simcoe County Rd. 169 Washago, ON L0K 2B0 Phone: 705-689-2626 • 1-888-260-6324 • Fax: 705-689-8671 • www. timbermart.ca STORE HOURS MAY BE AFFECTED BY COVID-19 - Please call us for more details.

Giving during hard times During this time of pandemic, charitable organizations and their front line workers have witnessed first-hand the increased needs in our community: the homeless; hungry; the abused; the ill and elderly alone; disabled without support and more. Regular donors whose income may have been greatly reduced, or potential donors who are not working, cannot give as they once did. This puts a strain on our fragile social system. If you consider yourself one of the more fortunate, someone who did not lose significant income and has a comfortable home and food on the table, could you take some time to reassess or even increase the monthly charitable contributions you already so generously make? Could you make a new or additional one-time donation that will help the charities of your choice get over this terrible pandemic situation? Over the next several months, The Villager will feature local charitable organizations that need some extra help.

The Lighthouse Soup Kitchen and Shelter

This organization is only a few months away from opening their new facility. Among other services, it will offer supportive housing with 20 units; emergency beds for men, women, youth and families; a soup kitchen; and addictions and mental health counselling. While the new facility is being completed, the current location of The Lighthouse is still responsible for the shelter and feeding of the men who participate in their shelter program (now at hotels) and, at the same time, The Lighthouse still prepares, for pickup only, bagged lunches for those Nowring ters e Off Boos n i k S

in need. Donations to this organization will ensure the staff, currently under great stress to care for their clients under these extreme circumstances, will be able to fulfill their duties to the community. Details at orillialighthouse.ca.

Green Haven Shelter for Women While millions of Canadians stay at home to keep safe and help flatten the curve, victims of domestic violence are experiencing an increased threat because they are now confined to their homes with M Treeso-G atm old ent s

their abusers. Horrifically, whatever triggers the abuser, it seems, has been exacerbated. Consider the extra needs the shelter now has and the services they offer: safe, secure refuge 24/7; confidential support and crisis counselling; financial, legal and housing information and referrals; emergency transportation; safety planning and more. Green Haven Shelter for Women, serving Orillia and the surrounding area, is in a similar situation as other charitable organizations. They are looking after the most vulnerable while the pandemic has both reduced donations when the need has increased. Their need for additional funds is real. Donation details at greenhavenshelter.com.

G IN ! M N CO OO S

Washago Art Club – Annual –

Facial Cosmetic Injectables! Offering wrinkle treatments such as Botox Cosmetic®/Dysport® and Dermal Fillers such as Restylane®/Teosyal®

Outdoor Art Installation Take a walk with your loved ones along Muskoka Street in Washago. Observe social distancing while you enjoy the sight of our beautifully crafted, hand-painted bird houses.

Services provided by Emily Greb, BScN, NP-PHC Call or e-mail for your complimentary consultation

705-259-2838 or 705-627-6283 www.facefirstinjectables.com info@facefirstinjectables.com 333 Mary St., Orillia, ON L3V 3E9

Please do not hesitate to call if you have any questions, concerns or to book a future appointment. Wishing you and your family well through this challenging time. We look forward to treating you soon. Put Your Face First!

Possible live or online fall auction to be announced.

Severn’s updated brand – Share your vision In light of COVID-19, we’ve seen Severn rise up and connect in inspiring ways—coming together while remaining apart. This sense of community and civic pride has always lived here, and now is the time for it to be celebrated through an updated township brand. More than just a logo, the updated brand will actively celebrate Severn’s individual communities and the many assets and strengths they contribute to the whole. The brand will also: • Differentiate our community from nearby towns and cities • Hint at Severn’s distinct assets and the experiences to be enjoyed here

• Spark curiosity in tourists and increase the number and length of visits • Attract repeat business and drive investment to the area • Facilitate renewed civic pride and attract new families to the area. …And so much more! But to build the brand and ensure it accurately reflects Severn, we know we need the input of the people who live, work, and play here. This is why we’re proudly launching engagesevern.ca, an online engagement platform where you can share your ideas and personal stories about the community, reveal your

favourite places (and uncover those of other community members), complete our survey, and learn more about this exciting project. Additionally, you may be contacted at random to take part in a short (optional) telephone survey. The insights collected from these activities will be analyzed and interpreted in the brand’s design to ensure a distinct, authentic, and memorable end result that can be proudly shared and worn throughout Severn—and beyond. Your voice matters. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to shape the future of Severn by sharing your vision

Severn’s mayor, Mike Burkett, is asking residents for their input as the township works toward creating a new brand. Visit engagesevern.ca. for our updated brand. Visit engagesevern.ca to get started today.

COVID-19 Restrictions

At the time of this publication, the fire ban had been lifted (as of May 16th) for campfires only, and public docks had opened. Township facilities, including recreation and community centres, are still closed to the public. Because restrictions change regularly, please check with the township for updated information. 705-325-2315 or www.townshipofsevern.com

SMALL ENGINE REPAIR We specialize in ALL SMALL MOTORS: Snow Blowers • Chainsaws • Lawn/Rider Mowers THE BEST PRICES ON CHAINSAW CHAIN SHARPENING & WELDING!

Call 705-689-5837

5276 Dean Trail, Washago

The Lions never sleep By Sandra Galloway Crawford, Past-president From the very beginning of the pandemic, everyone was aware that front line workers at long term care facilities were working day and night to keep up with the many new, difficult and sometimes impossible challenges they faced. Even though all Lions halls have been closed, we are always ready to help and, luckily, we have support. Our Washago

club is part of a large district that consists of 47 clubs and 1,070 members. Our district governor, Jamie Jones of Bradford, on behalf of all the district clubs, secured a $10,000 US grant from the Lions International emergency fund to be used to help front line workers at long term care facilities. After talking to some long term care facilities in the district,

JILL DUNLOP

MPP, Simcoe North ORILLIA OFFICE: 14 Coldwater Road W. Orillia, ON, L3V 3L1 MIDLAND OFFICE: 295 King Street, Suite 6 TD Canada Trust Bank Plaza Midland, ON, L4R 3M5 jill.dunlopco@pc.ola.org

Front line workers at Oak Terrace Long Term Care Home receive a delivery of coffee and snacks from the Washago Lions Club. it was determined that what the exhausted workers could use from us was something to boost their morale, a sweet treat and a break in the day. Very quickly, Governor Jamie was able to get four McDonalds locations on board, some owned by a Lions member. By Easter Weekend, Lions members from all over the district were delivering, sometimes as often as twice a day, specially packaged McDonalds snacks and coffee to as many as 30 long term care homes. Those served included Oak Terrace, Trillium Manor, and

Leacock Care Home in Orillia. By the 3rd week of May, the initiative was winding down as the facilities record fewer Covid-19 cases, staffing is more stable and demands have lessened. The Washago Lions Club is proud to have been a part of this community initiative. On behalf of our club, thank you to all District A12 Lions, and to the participating McDonalds locations. A special thank you to all front line workers everywhere.

MUSKOKA DENTURE CLINIC MARK J. FANTUZ, D.D. Denture Specialist

Complete and Partial Dentures Relines and Repairs Mouthguards Free Consultations

To our valued clients: Because of the current health crisis, to protect you and our staff, in an abundance of caution we have closed our office temporarily. Please call or email if you need advice. We will respond as quickly as possible.

Serving Severn, Muskoka & Area for 25 years

705-687-5152 • 1-800-315-5229

455 Muskoka Road N. Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1G3 Email: info@muskokadenture.com Website: www.muskokadentureclinic.net

Never more important to shop local Local businesses pay local taxes, employ local residents, and they support local sports teams, events and charities. Now, as they fight their way back from closures or partial closures because of COVID-19, it’s never in our lifetimes been more important to buy from them. Let’s return the favours they’ve done for our community. Another equally important reason to shop local: Severn has some of the finest retailers and service businesses in the province. Take a look through the pages of this issue of The Villager and you’ll find honest, trustworthy entrepreneurs who stake their business on their local reputation. The Villager will feature two or three local businesses each issue for the next several months. Here is installation #1.

Maple Grove Syrup

Located in Uhthoff, what some call a ‘ghost town’ in Severn Township, is a 50-acre sugar bush of towering maple trees. Here the owners produce 100% pure maple syrup on a traditional wood-fired evaporator. Maple Grove Syrup has been producing for generations, starting the business with 50 buckets and a large open fire. Today, they operate 800-900 taps, working in the spring with the entire family. Their products – syrup, maple sugar candy and maple granulated sugar - are available year round at Mariposa Market in Orillia; Goldsmith’s Orchard Market in Thornbury; and Barrie Hill Farms in Springwater. Visit their website: maplegrovesyrup.ca or email maplegrovesyrup@gmail.com.

Hewitts Farm Market

and unique gifts. Under normal circumstances, Hewitts Hewitts is located on Townline Road, Farm Market staff are thrilled to have people Warminster. Visit their website at come and stroll through their farm market hewittsfarmmarket.com or call 705-325and visit their fun farm. But, during the 5000. COVID-19 restrictions, and in an abundance of caution to keep staff and customers safe, they invite you to call to place your order. This local business has been doing everything possible to make sure their products are available safely to their customers through curbside, contactless NOTICE TO SEVERN BUSINESS OWNERS pickup. At Hewitts, they continually update their If you would like your business to appear products and you’ll find locally sourced food in this monthly feature, please email and produce, including chicken, turkey, thevillagerpress@rogers.com with pork, beef and fish. They also sell lemonade, “Severn Business” in the subject field. fresh produce, dairy products, sauces, dips

ART’S Recreational Repairs (Since 1982)

Open for Takeout Monday-Saturday Visit Our Facebook Page For Hours & Fabulous, Delicious Daily Entrée Specials Check out our country store • Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream

1284 Madison St., Severn

Directly in front of Silver Creek Estates, a couple of minutes off Highway 11, exit Carlyon Line

Outboard, Sterndrive, Pontoon, Pwc Service All Seasons Indoor & Outdoor Storage Abyc Certified For Electrical Repairs & Rigging WE ARE YOUR LOCAL PARTS DEPOT

Call 705-689-8194 Email: artsrecreation@aol.com 1330 Canning Rd. Severn Bridge, ON P0E 1N0

Really Worth It?

Learn How We Can Help

More help is available for small business Businesses in Orillia and Lake Country unable to access existing federal relief measures can now apply for zero percent interest loans under new initiative With files from CDC news release, Orillia, ON • May 20, 2020 Small businesses are at the heart of our economy and many are vital to this community. The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in uncertainty and anxiety for businesses. In an effort to alleviate some of this pressure, the new Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) from the Government of Canada will provide zero percent interest loans with favorable terms to help small businesses where revenues have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of $39.4 million of the overall $287 million fund has been allocated for CFDCs across southern Ontario, including the Orillia Area CDC, to distribute to qualifying businesses. “We know many local businesses have not been able to access other programs or may need additional support in this challenging time. The flexible funding offered through this program will allow us to fill in some of

the gaps to support our local community,” said Wendy Timpano, General Manager, of the CDC. Businesses that are not eligible or have been declined for other Government of Canada COVID-19 relief measures will be given priority for the loans. Businesses that have received some funding but have operating expenses in excess of the support already received may also apply. Applications for the new Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) are now open locally through the CDC at www.orilliacdc. com. Larger incorporated businesses requiring loans in excess of $40,000 can apply for funding up to $500,000 directly through FedDev Ontario. The mission of the CDC is to enrich the local economy through coaching, training and financing businesses, and fostering

community economic development projects. The CDC has been supporting businesses in the community for over 35 years. Please visit www.orilliacdc.com for more information on eligibility and the application process.

DISCOVER US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ TheVillagerCommunityNews Easy to access • Easy to read 3843 Soules Road, Orillia www.lakecountryanimal.com 705-326-4800

DR. KATHY MARCHILDON and DR. SANDY DRURY

Mon., Wed., Thur., Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Tues. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

See Us First for Your Home or Cottage Fireplace or Stove

Evening appointments available.

Exceptional products • Professional installation

Stay Healthy • Keep Safe

•

We repair & replace gas/wood/pellet stoves, fireplaces and inserts. Ask us about our chimney sweep and inspection services.

The marriage between reliability and elegance. Because the Province is updating the re-opening guidelines on an almost weekly basis, please call us for the latest information as regards our service protocols.

VISIT O U WEBSIT R OR CAL E LU ABOUT S MONTH SPECIA LY LS

We are here for you and practicing social distancing/ no contact care. If you have questions, concerns or an emergency, call us. On behalf of everyone on Lake Country Animal Hospital, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your pets.

Be sure to take regular, quiet, social-distance walks with your dog!

Beau Repairs Working for SENIORS

“Little Jobs, Little Prices” Board Fence & Deck Repairs - Plumbing - Odd Jobs

Free Estimates

705-330-5182

Better Value Plumbing & Heating Inc. • For all your plumbing and hydronic needs •

705-689-6676 (689-NORM) We carefully follow the guidelines of the Ontario Ministry of Health. Appointments only. No new construction. ALWAYS HERE FOR YOUR EMERGENCIES.

No Water?

ENTERPRISES

Blown Fiberglass Insulation INSTALL QUALITY INSULATION IN YOUR ATTIC If you haven’t looked in your attic for years – or ever! – we could potentially save you 100s of $$ monthly.

Call today for an appointment and a free estimate.

Randy Tinline 705-835-3877

New Installations and Repairs on Wells and Lake Draw Systems Pump & Electric Motor Repairs Call RICK Today

Just Fix It 705-689-RICK (7425)

Over 27 Years Experience

Licensed by Ministry of Natural Resources

Licensed & Insured Serving Gravenhurst to Barrie area

40 Years Experience

LANDSCAPE & CONSTRUCTION Walkways • Steps • Driveways • Patios Design and Build – Free estimates

Glenn Brochu • 705-321-2132 3901 Menoke Beach Rd., Severn

Dan The Wood Man Tree Removal Junk Removal Demolitions FULLY INSURED

705-689-2223

(ABCD)

www.danthewoodman.ca

cell: 705-323-7808 danthewoodman@hotmail.ca

GORD’S CARPENTRY BASEMENTS FRAMED TO FINISH

BASEMENTS FRAMED TO FINISH Renovations • T-Bar Ceilings • Decks & Fences

REASONABLE RATES FOR QUALITY WORKMANSHIP

Call today for a free estimate 705-259-2704

SEPTIC DESIGN and INSTALL

CHAD COOKE

SERVICE TRENCHING FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING LOT CLEARING

705-826-2028 chad@system6stucco.com

tracy maday

3435 Timberline Ave Severn L3V 0V8 quality cuts

705-514-0068 & shaves

BayouBarber.ca

Stay safe & healthy!

We are designated as an essential business. See us for your homecare, mobility and other needs.

We are here to help with COVID-19: Gloves • Wipes • Masks • Hand Sanitizer OPEN Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm

SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • www.homecomfortcare.ca

Gravenhurst 705-687-3890

BOARD YOUR DOG OR SMALL ANIMAL NO KENNEL. NO CRATE.

We’ll keep your pet happy and safe at our large house on 6 acres of fenced property. Young or old. Special needs accepted.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS Up-to-date Advantage application required.

REFERENCES PROVIDED OVERNIGHT OR WEEKLY RATES

705-689-6246 • frogpond@xplornet.ca

ORILLIA FOOT CLINIC & WELLNESS CENTRE Your One Stop Spot for Head-To-Toe Health

Tony Young BSc, DCh - Chiropodist Accepting New Patients for Professional Foot Care Services Chiropody appointments available; government restrictions have been lifted. Please call or email for information.

333 Mary Street, Orillia 705.259.2838 www.ofcwc.com Relax and enjoy your time away from your cottage or home!

SECURITY • MAINTENANCE • CLEAN UP

Darren Rutledge 416-527-0507 rutledge.dt@gmail.com RutledgeCottageService.com

Bracebridge 705-646-8846

Huntsville 705-788-3810

Hope rules our community Last year, The Villager published a total of 35 community events in April, May and June. Sadly, this year, we haven’t published a single one. Canada Day celebrations, Mariposa Folk Festival, the Scottish Festival, fundraising luncheons and dinners for community halls and churches, all cancelled. One of the most recent community event cancellations The Villager received was from The Ramara Historical Society. Their Yesteryears event was planned for July 25, 2020. Spokesperson Cathy Westcott said, “We have made this difficult decision in

A photo from the 2018 Yesteryears event hosted by the Ramara Historical Society. Cancelled this year, it is rescheduled for July 24th, 2021.

adherence with the government mandated safety precautions and in respect for the well-being of our friends and visitors who would attend our special day of celebration. We have rescheduled our event for July 24, 2021.” As heartbreaking as all the event cancellations are, the example of Yesteryears shows us there is so much hope in this community. The volunteers who make this and dozens of other local events happen aren’t in despair. They are hard at work, constantly in touch with each other by telephone or email or through virtual meetings. They remain dedicated to WEDDINGS • WAGON RIDES • SLEIGH RIDES the community while they wait out this pandemic. Rather than thinking of themselves, they focus on how they can once again enrich their community when the time is right. One day again, The Villager will publish monthly lists of community 705-689-0182 events and our community will know their hopes were answered. Christine Jameson: christine@twinmaplesfarm.ca

TWIN MAPLES FARM

FERN FOREST GARDEN CENTER - ONLY MINUTES OFF HIGHWAY 11

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

10 a.m. – Noon & 1 – 5 p.m. We are closed from Noon – 1 p.m. for watering and lunch. COVID-19 protocol: 2 cars allowed through the gate at a time. Social distancing in effect.

VISIT www.fernforest.ca or our Facebook page

www.facebook.com/fernforestg

4012 CAMBRIAN ROAD, WASHAGO - 705-689-8230

4012 Cambrian Rd., Washago/Severn Bridge • www.fernforest.ca • 705-689-8230

VISIT WWW.FERNFOREST.CA FOR MAP/DIRECTIONS

Always an excellent selection of Roasts, Chops, Steaks, Ground Beef, Chicken

Great variety of Vegetables and Fruit Fresh to create a great meal!

Delicious, freshly prepared take-out Sandwiches • Ask for panini-press Pizza • Salads

Open 7 Days a Week 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. during the COVID-19 crisis PLEASE NOTE: We exercise all possible precautions to keep our premises clean for your protection. We ask our customers to practice social distancing and to shop alone, not in groups.

DELIVERY AVAILABLE Call us for details. ON-LINE SHOPPING AVAILABLE SOON! Check our website for details. www.canoefreshfoods.ca

CANOE BAKERY & CAFÉ • Breads, rolls, pies, butter tarts, squares, muffins, bagels, meat pies and more! • Fresh brewed Muskoka Roastery coffee • Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Americano, Latte Tea, Iced Coffee • All take-out cups are biodegradable Like us on