The Villager 2018 March by Villager Community News

March 2018

Township spring programs. . . . . . . 3 Washago Carving Show. . . . . . . . . . 8 Gives skunks their space. . . . . . . . .14 Community Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

‘Our’ conservancy rocks! By Ellen Cohen

with files from The Couchiching Conservancy February 9, 2018 press release

Villager readers learned this past July that The Couchiching Conservancy had the opportunity to purchase a 295 hectare (728 acre) property. Significantly, this potential acquisition included 4.4 kilometers along the Black River, one of the last wild rivers in Southern Ontario. Mark Bisset, the conservancy’s executive director explained the purchase of this land would mean protecting it from commercial or residential development. He said the tract for sale provides habitat for at risk, endangered or threatened species. It’s in an area still recovering from generations of logging, among other habitat disturbances. The challenge for the conservancy was what to most would be considered an impossibly short amount of time to raise the necessary funds to buy this property. It surely had to be one of the biggest challenges the conservancy had ever undertaken. The deadline was January 2018. The cost of the land $575,000.00. Well, never let it be said that The Couchiching Conservancy cannot rise to a challenge when a piece of land needs protecting. Fast forward to February 9th. The Couchiching Conservancy officially

The Couchiching Conservancy has recently purchased and will protect an important tract of land inside the boundaries of Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park which includes 4.4 kilometers of the Black River. announced the deal is done. The property is now officially under their protection. It would be easy to call this a miracle but, in my opinion, it’s not. Unless you’re referring to the miraculous work that was done by so many to make this happen in such a short time: the board of directors and other volunteers, the executive director and staff, the members and all donors. The ability to raise $575,000 so quickly has everything to do with the fine work that The Couchiching Conservancy has done for the past 25 years. They have well-earned trust and respect, and both go a long way when they needed a lot of help in a big hurry. Support came from members, local residents and businesses and government, including a major contribution from the Government of Canada through the Natural

Areas Conservation Program. The funds raised cover the price of the property, legal and appraisal costs, and a stewardship endowment fund that will ensure the organization can permanently care for the property. The ‘About Us’ tab on the conservancy website says “Our donors, volunteers and staff work together to make The Couchiching Conservancy a beacon of hope, a bastion of reason and cooperation. In an age of environmental paralysis, we get things done. That’s our brand. That’s our mission.” Volunteers, donors and staff, you have proved this statement is true. Congratulations on the purchase of this vitally important piece of land. Your community trusts you to look after it well.

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to help purchase a mobility mat. This mat will assist those with a variety of abilities, including wheelchair users or parents with strollers, to access more of the park. Check out other events on the township website. In Coldwater, there are two arena highlights: hockey playoffs have started and the Coldwater Ice Wolves are in second place in their division; and on March 31st the annual ice show by the Coldwater Figure Skating Club takes place.

While we wait for spring to come, there is work to be done and fun to be had! Make sure you head to Washago Centennial Park on March 16, 17 and 18 for the 1st Annual Carving Event. Carvers from across Canada and a few from overseas will be taking part. This is an opportunity to watch the chainsaw magic. Those attending this event will also be able to help bring an important new feature to Washago Centennial Park. There will be a fundraising event

Spring Recreation Program registration begins March 1st. Children’s activities start to move outdoors – T-Ball and Little Kickers. Yoga, Tai Chi, and Fitness Fusion are just some of the programs available for adults and seniors. As tenders close, the work will begin on the numerous and continuing improvements throughout the township in parks, facilities, docks, trail and sports fields. And please note: staff are already booking ice time for 2018-2019 so get in touch with the township soon to make sure your buck and doe, birthday party, your special anniversary or family reunion are well looked after and memorable. To review our spring programs, or to get details about our rental facilities, please go to our website, www.townshipofsevern.com. Or call the township office at 705-325-2315.

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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, 705-345-3878

A lovely sun dog at sunrise on a February morning. Maybe announcing an early spring? From the Publisher:

Social media. I use it at my own peril. My social media site of choice is Facebook. They say Facebook is used mostly by ‘older’ people and I’m okay with this. Every morning I remove my bifocals and don my special single-vision computer-friendly eyewear and sign on. What I like best are the book reviews and recommendations from Book Bub, the New York Times recipes, updates from friends and family, jokes, photos and videos from National Geographic, community announcements and, most especially, real news updates, the latest news posted by the publishers I choose to follow. But it’s not all pretty on social media. I get angry when horrible people make hateful and nasty comments, usually under articles that refer to political policies or parties, and social issues. Opinions are welcome to me. Hate-speak and personal comments are not. I feel angry when I receive an unsolicited post from some radical, unsourced and angry individual or group that spews a variety of undisguised hate, conspiracy theories and just plain lies. Those same posters don’t hesitate to use terrible language to criticize just about anything. Are they all professional trolls? Or could they be posts from people in our own community who are posting under fictitious names to protect their anonymity? That’s an awful thought. I am embarrassed to admit I sometimes respond to some of those hateful posts and comments, my social justice hat firmly set on my head that obviously numbs my brain. When I do this, I find myself going back and forth with those hate-speakers, trying to convince them that he/she is wrong. Of course, their responses often cause me to feel even angrier. What a waste of time and energy. When Facebook first became popular, it really was a social site. To some extent, that is still true. I can still post a photo of my latest meal (I don’t!), or share pieces of poetry that I ask people to copy and paste so we can spread love to all the people in the world (I don’t do that either). But today, to discover a truly social post or an intelligent, well-researched piece of news, it seems I have to wade through so many posts. I’ve (mostly) learned to recognize trusted sources but if I’m not careful, I will sometimes open an opinion piece dressed up as real news. Some may lead to hate or conspiracy theory sites. I quickly get off those sites and hide the sender. But does the fact that I opened or read it, or liked it, will forever be recorded in cyber space – and will it mean that I’ll start to get even more scary posts? Yikes. Social media is a wonderful communication tool and, if used properly, it can fun, as well as very educational and informative. But today, in the world of cyber-attacks and an increasing number of distasteful posts and comments, I use it with much more care and at my own peril. Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.

Severn Township Wards 3, 4, 5 updates WARD 5 Councillor Donald Westcott says that progress in Ward 5 is very positive and the two largest projects are well in hand. The reconstruction of Muskoka Street in Washago, from County Rd. 169 and Albany Street (at the post office) is a $550,000 project. “I don’t think this part of Muskoka Street has been reconstructed since 1984 when the sewer/water system was installed. The street and sidewalks are in bad shape and need to be rebuilt,” says Donald. Donald said once completed, the reconstruction will improve safety as well as the look of the main business area of the village. Tenders for this project are being reviewed. Once a contractor is chosen, the item will go to council for approval. To find out more, business owners and any other interested parties are invited to a public meeting. Donald and the director of public works, Derek Burke will host. Join them on Monday, March 12th at the Washago Community Centre in the board room at 2 p.m. Next to the street reconstruction, the enhancement to the Washago Centennial Park facilities is a major project. Led by Pat Harwood, Parks & Recreation coordinator, the washroom facility will be renovated. Among other work, the building requires electrical and plumbing refurbishment, but once completed it will add a much needed permanent park facility. Also in the park, the large covered shelter adjacent to the beach will have electrical added. Donald said that this will be yet

ORILLIA LIBRARY NEWS

another welcome addition and will prove to be very valuable to user groups such as the local United Church and the Lions Jamming summer sessions. WARD 4 “More development is imminent, running all the way up to Goldstein Rd. We’re working on a number of things to ensure it happens as quickly as possible,” says Ron Stevens, councillor for Ward 4. The major projects/issues to complete and decide upon are the beginning of construction on the community centre and to decide on how to give access to the lake for new residential communities within this West Shore area, an important feature of all Westshore communities. As regards the new community centre, it will be located in the Menoke Beach area. One of the last things to decide is how to manage placement it on the soundest ground. The area has been agricultural use only for many, many years and has presented some challenges, but Ron believes there will be a ground-breaking this spring. At the same time, Ward 4 currently has two developments almost ready to be started, and a third which is in the preliminary stage. Lastly, Ron said, “Access to the lake is a very important feature to current residents, as it is to developers and future West Shore homeowners. Add to that a completed community centre, it all comes together.” WARD 3 For Ward 3, says Councillor John Betsworth one of the biggest and complex issues is 20-years in the making.

It appears that the negotiations between the Orillia Library board and the Severn Library board have been completed. At the time of this writing, the final signed document had not reached the Coldwater Library, but the Severn Township council representative on the Orillia Library board confirmed that the increase will be $2.00/user, compared to 2017. Councillors for the eastern part of the township are happy to see the negotiations come to an end and want to make sure all Severn residents know there is no charge to use the Orillia Library, for book lending, activities or programs. “For those who have lived in the area for a long time, they’ve likely heard talk of negotiations with Orillia regarding what is known as Area 3. It’s very complex,” said John. Area 3 runs along Highway 11 from Burnside Line to Uhthoff Rd. To accommodate any future development, sewer and water would be necessary and, for years, there have been questions about who provides it, who pays for it, would there be annexation? In addition, in question is the costly improvement/widening of the West Street bridge over Highway 11, an important link between Orillia and Severn Township. Who would pay for that work is a question to be answered said John. It’s a complex issue and negotiating will go on between the Township of Severn, the City of Orillia, and the Province of Ontario (MTO). There were two meetings in February and this issue goes on.

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Mark your calendar for great Rotary events details on menu to follow in the next issue of The Villager - and keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates. Regarding raising money through raffles, we’ve raffled canoes, kayaks and guitars with great success and we now have something new – a ‘Beer-for-a-Year’ raffle. For just $20 you can enter to win. There are only 500 tickets available so plan to buy early. The lucky winner will receive a $40 gift card every week for year with a total value $2,080.00. Lottery lic.#735971. Draw date is May 19, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. To buy tickets, message us on Facebook or email info@washagorotary.ca for your tickets. TECHNICAL SCHOLARSHIP - APPLY BY MARCH 15th The Rotary Club of Washago has proudly awarded a technical scholarship in the amount of $500 who is participating in post-secondary education, either in an apprenticeship or institutional training program. This scholarship has helped applicants in the past with things like

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purchasing tools required for their trade, offsetting their fuel expense to drive up to the college in Bracebridge, and much more. If you know someone in an apprenticeship or skilled trade program, please have them fill out the application on our website www. washagorotary.ca (under the Youth heading on the top bar) and e-mail the completed form to info@washagorotary.ca before the March 15th deadline. The successful applicant will be notified by April 1st 2018.

EVENTS & RAFFLES One of the best ways we’ve found to raise money for the community is to hold a great event or offer something special in a raffle. We invite you to participate. The 3rd annual Kegs and Corks is on March 10th. This event runs from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Washago Community Centre. A $15 ticket price includes entrance, artisan craft inspired hors d’oeuvres, and three sample tickets. Additional tickets will be available for $1.00 each. Make sure you plan for a safe ride home and come and enjoy craft beer and cider. The Wild Game Dinner (13th annual!) is on May 5th. Come to the Washago Community Center and enjoy expertly chef-prepared wild game. In the past, patrons have enjoyed such delicacies as: wild boar, bison, venison, bear, elk, moose, Lake Erie pickerel, pheasant, duck and free range potatoes. Entry is $50 and features a cash bar. Registration required. More

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Know someone is struggling? Be a friend. At the end of January many of us participated in Bell Let’s Talk Day, the giant fundraiser for mental health services. It’s an appropriate time of year to run this initiative because winter is a time when mental illness, especially depression, seems to get worse. Don’t make this a one-day effort. If you know of someone who is suffering, take a minute and call them. Ask how they are feeling. Maybe they’d like to go out for a coffee? Making contact with someone you know who needs some help will make them, and you, feel better. Recently I was talking to Lioness Carol Buckley. She was very Making contact with someone you know who might need help will excited about all the swans and ducks that have congregated make them, and you, feel better. down at the park. If you have the time and have not done so, she recommends you go and see this wonderful winter scene. CARD OF THANKS In the February edition I noted we would have a spring open From the family of the late Russell Cooper house. We’ll keep you updated but we are looking for a Saturday or An outpouring of kind thoughts and sympathy has been received by the family of Sunday in May or June when the Lions Hall is available. Members of Russell Cooper. He passed away on January 15, 2018. Our family wants to express our deep thank you for your support at this time in our family’s life. the community will be invited to drop in for refreshments and we Thank you to all our relatives, friends and neighbours for your care and comfort would love to see retired Lioness and Lions come back and spend during our sad time. Your wonderful meals and bright smiles have meant more some time with us. than you can imagine. Your donations, cards, flowers, food and gifts of time spent with us have given us strength as we reflect upon and value Russell’s life. We are starting to think of our Court Whist/luncheon which will We hope that as you read this message, each of you will accept our gratitude for be held in April. Unfortunately, the number of participants dropped the time and effort you have shared with us in so many ways. How can a family in 2017 so we may change Court Whist to Euchre. If you have any express our deep appreciation for so much kindness and love other than in two words…Thank You! thoughts on this please email me at lochness73@gmail.com. I look ~Fondly, the Russell Cooper Family and especially Olive. forward to your input.

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Carving show lands in Washago By Ellen Cohen At the time of writing this article, it was too soon to know the long range forecast for March 16, 17 and 18. But it’s sure to be pretty hot at Washago Centennial Park during the 1st Annual Carving Event, organized by Back Yard Stuff on Highway 11 in Severn Township. For those of you who haven’t been to a carving show, this is the opportunity to see some of the world’s best carvers - artists who create pieces of art out of a variety of sizes and shapes of wood. Some huge outdoor pieces. Others will be smaller, suitable to display in your house. During this event, there will be featured a minimum of 15 talented and experienced carvers, all with individual styles. They will be carving live as you watch and many will have pieces available for sale. Each of the carvers will create a piece created specifically to be auctioned off on Sunday between 1-3 p.m. Proceeds from this auction will go towards the purchase of a Mobi-Mat that will be allow simple access to the beach for the elderly, wheelchair users, or parents with strollers. In fact, the new mat is sure to give anyone with mobility issues a new beach experience. The Carving Event also features multiple food and beverage vendors on site. There will also be vendors who specialize in tools and equipment and a live edge distributor. Washago Centennial Park is located on Lake Couchiching at the end of Quetton Street, off County Rd. 169, just outside of the Washago village. The Carving Event begins on Friday, March 16th and runs through Sunday March 18th. The event runs Friday and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Sunday from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Admission is free.

Lots of fun – in spite of cold and snow

REGARDING RECONSTRUCTION OF MUSKOKA STREET, WASHAGO The Township of Severn will host a meeting on Monday, March 12th at 2:00 p.m. at the Washago Community Centre in the boardroom. The purpose of the meeting, to be chaired by Derrick Burke, the township’s director of public works, is to review the breadth of the Muskoka Street reconstruction work and to share details of the project.

By Marylynne White Even though February was a very wintry and snowy month, none of that stopped our club from continuing our fun activities! It was a pleasant surprise when many members braved the snowy roads and managed to bring their delicious contributions to our February Pot Luck Lunch. Wonderful warm comfort food was the rule of the day. It is always fun to see what turns up! After lunch we enjoyed creative games with a Valentine’s theme. Afterwards, chocolates and sweet treats were enjoyed by all. Later in the month, we had an Olympic afternoon meeting. We had games thinly based on many of the Pyeonchang events. Creative floor curling, target shooting, minitriathlon and much more. Our hope was completion not competition!!!! Olympic coin prizes were awarded to all. After all that fun, the birthday kids were recognized. Birthday

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cake and refreshments were served. We also had some of our members attend the show “Cabaret” in Bracebridge this month. Carpooling was popular. Our members enjoy bowling at Orillia Bowl on Tuesday mornings. With this activity, it is not required to be a member of Washago Seniors. That is also true for belonging to the Harmony Sounds Choir and Ukulele band. New members are always welcome. WEDDINGS • WAGON RIDES • SLEIGH RIDES Please note: Harmony Sounds will be presenting a musical concert on Sunday, June 10, 2 p.m. at the Washago Community Centre.

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Practice your home fire escape plan – today. By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer, Severn Township If a fire occurred in your home tonight, would your family get out safely? It’s not enough just to hope this is true. Take the following steps to make sure you and your family have the best chance to survive without injury. • Test your smoke alarms monthly by pushing the test button. Smoke alarms must be installed on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. • Sit down with everyone in your home and discuss how each person will get out in case of fire. Practice your escape plan with everyone in the home.

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• Have a meeting place outside, a safe distance from your home. In case of fire, everyone should go directly to this meeting place in order to be accounted for. • Close doors behind you as you leave. • Get out, stay out. When the alarms sound, get out immediately and call 9-1-1 from outside using a cell phone or from a neighbour’s home. Never re-enter a burning building. Contact Severn Fire & Emergency Services, Fire Prevention Division at 705-325-2315, extension 248 for more information.

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Serve from the pot or pan fry till golden PIEROGIE FILLING: • 5 lbs. peeled, cooked and mashed potatoes, using butter and cream. Salt & pepper to taste.(Yukon Gold potatoes work well.) • ¼ cup vegetable oil • 1 red onion, ¼” dice • ½ red and ½ yellow pepper, ¼” dice • 1 medium Portobello mushroom, ¼” dice • ¼ cup garlic powder • Salt & pepper to taste • 2 cups grated extra old white cheddar

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. If it seems too dry, add 1 tbsp. of warm water to help combine. Cover and let rest for 1 to 1½ hours.

PIEROGIE DOUGH: • 2 cups of flour • ½ cup warm water • 1 tsp. of salt • 2 eggs (beaten) • 1 tsp. of olive oil

until they float, about 4-6 pierogies at a time. Remove using a slotted spoon. They may be served immediately from the pot.

Remove from bowl and roll out on floured surface, to about ¼” thick. Using a drinking glass, upside down, cut out 4 inch circles. Place filling inside the circle while keeping the edges clean and free of filling. Using pastry brush, dampen edges with warm water and seal edges with a fork. Fold over and press to seal. Should be in In a frying pan, drizzle in vegetable oil. a half-moon shape. Repeat until all filling Sauté onions, peppers and mushrooms. and dough is used. Add seasoning and let cool. Combine this COOKING METHOD: mixture with cooled potato mixture. Drop pierogies into salted simmering water

Latin for seawater, Aquamarine is said to calm waves and keep sailors safe at sea. March’s birthstone is also thought to enhance happiness in marriages. The best Aquamarines combine high clarity with limpid transparency and blue to green/ blue hues. Aquamarine forms large crystals making it suitable for sizable fashioned gems and carvings. For more information about Aquamarine and custom jewelry, visit: richardsjewelrydesigns.com. GARNISH: • Cook double smoked bacon, amount to taste, and break into ¼” pieces. • 3 green onions, chopped. • Sour cream. Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

If you prefer, fry pierogies in a heavy skillet with vegetable oil or bacon fat, until golden.

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Traveling outside of Canada? Know the passport rules. By Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton I know many people will travel to warmer climates in the next few weeks and over the March break. You’ll require a passport to make this trip so now is the time to ensure that you have all of the information and documentation you’ll need. Passports are required if you’re a Canadian citizen, have dual citizenship with Canada and another country, or you have a Permanent Resident Card. To travel to the United States, your passport will need to be valid for the duration of your stay. However, some airlines and tour companies have introduced more stringent requirements. Check with them to make sure that you have the proper identification to go on your trip. To understand passport rules for children, visit www.travel.gc.ca for details or call my office for information. If you are flying to a destination other than the US, I encourage you to check this same website. This site will give you

the most up-to-date travel advisories and information on each country’s entry/exit requirements. You should also check with your airline or tour group to see if they have additional requirements.

When you drop off your passport application at either my Orillia or Midland office, the normal processing time is currently 4-6 weeks. Each Friday, we package up all of the passports that we receive throughout the week, so please ensure you stop by before noon on Friday

to get your application brought to the main Passport Canada office in Gatineau. If you require your passport more quickly, your best option is to visit a Passport Canada office in person. Their standard processing time is 10 business days. As is the case when you send a passport through my office, passports are then returned to you by registered mail. Unless you have a reason to travel to the GTA, we generally recommend taking your application to the Passport Canada office in the Whitby Mall. This office is not generally as busy as those in the Toronto area. The Whitby Passport Canada office is open Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm, and Saturday from 9:00am-12:00pm. Before visiting a Passport Canada office with your application, I encourage you to stop by my Orillia or Midland constituency offices. We’ll review your application and make sure you aren’t missing anything before you make the trip. Happy travels.

3380 Muskoka Street Washago, ON Office: 705-689-3700

*independently owned and operated.

Its not too early to be thinking about the Spring Market.

Nancy Humphreys

Lynda Hepinstall

705-796-8877

705-323-4211

Sales Representative

If you or someone you know is thinking of Selling, or curious about the Real Estate market give us a call! We always have someone to help you!!

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Birgit Hoesterey

Neila McQuay

705-345-4411

705-794-8805

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HOME OR BUSINESS

LANDSCAPING

From Left Lisa Wanamaker, Development Officer, Annual Giving, Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation joins Best Western employees Michelle Hollywell, Michelle Weber, Bobbie Jo Robinson, Andrea Sullivan, Ruth Mitchell and Chef Derek Mayes to accept the proceeds of the hotel’s second annual New Year’s Eve event.

Best Western 80’s Bash raises much needed funds for OSMH The Orillia Best Western Mariposa Inn and Conference Centre’s second annual New Year’s Eve event “80’s Bash” raised $4,494 in benefit of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH). “The Best Western is truly exemplary when it comes to their community generosity,” said Lisa Wanamaker, Development Officer, Annual Giving. “The funds raised at their annual New Year’s Eve event pave the way for improved patient care at OSMH.” The event was sold out and the funds raised will go towards general needs at the hospital. General Manager of the Orillia Best Western, Michelle Weber, says she was thrilled with the outcome.

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Washago Community Centre EUCHRE - Friday evening, March 9th from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Come out and enjoy an evening of progressive euchre with your friends and neighbours. Cost $7/person. Register by calling 705689-6424 and leave a message. If not registered, $8 at the door. The price includes prizes and light refreshments. If this euchre is well attended, we will plan to do euchre on a regular basis. EVERYONE WELCOME! - Play group for preschool children and their parents. We are looking for a volunteer to lead the group. Contact Rose at 705-689-6424 if you are interested. PROGRAM IDEAS - If you have an interest in an activity that is not presently offered at the Centre, please contact Rose at the community centre. HALL RENTALS - For all your special occasions, please check our web site for rental rates, or call the centre for more information. www.washagocommunitycentre.com • 705-689-6424

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at night. After the females have their litters of 3 or 4 young in spring, you may see them out during daylight hours, but the fall months are focused on fattening up for the Experiencing nature can bring life to all coming winter. Skunks don’t dig their own your senses. One of the joys of late winter, burrows, but prefer to take over the den of a as the snows retreat, is the earthy fragrance of moist soil steaming in the sunlight. But another odour may not be quite so welcome – the pungent smell of skunk as these common mammals begin their spring rambles. Normally skunks disappear for the winter, but as a lady from Quetton Street reminded me, they can emerge and cause a stink even in late January. That’s because skunks don’t actually hibernate; rather they go into a state of torpor where their body temperature falls and they basically sleep away the icy weather. But they will awaken during mild spells and emerge to look for food. Apparently, in Washago at least, they sometimes stay active even after the January thaw has been replaced by the Striped skunks are common in this area. Give polar vortex. them their space and walk away if they lift Striped skunks, which is the species in their tail! this area, have adapted readily to human habitats, and are not uncommon in towns groundhog or fox, or to squeeze under your and villages. Even in north Toronto, I once deck or garden shed. Several individuals shared an evening walk with three skunks may choose to snuggle together for the who were foraging for grubs in lawns and winter. As the weather turns cold, they were supremely unconcerned about my block the entrance to their winter lair with passing nearby. I have even had the rather dead leaves. bizarre experience of being followed by a Unlike chipmunks, which also spend the skunk for about a kilometer on a woodland coldest months in burrows, skunks do not trail– he was clearly curious about my store food. Like bears, they rely on body fat agenda, and acted much like a curious cat. to see them through to spring. Normally skunks are placid creatures, As the mild spells of March brings skunks unlikely to let loose their noxious spray out of their winter torpor, please don’t unless they feel threatened by you or your panic if you come across one of these milddog, and even then giving fair warning with mannered animals. If your puppy is inclined foot-stomping and arched tail. On a canoe to pick a fight with the striped stinker, it’s trip on the Chapleau River years ago, Janet time for a strategic retreat. Otherwise, and I were woken one night by a rustling watching a skunk waddle about his in our packs under the nearby canoe – not business from a respectful distance can be the bear we feared, but rather a sleek, well- a fascinating glimpse into their lives. fed skunk raiding our snacks. I did holler at him, but he just looked smugly at me in the A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron shaky beam of my flashlight and raised his Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the co-founder and former executive director of tail. “He can have all he wants,” I grumbled The Couchiching Conservancy. He has written as I pulled back into the tent; he did so, but more than 30 magazine articles and co-authored never sprayed. three books. He lives in Washago with his wife, For the most part, skunks are active only Janet Grand.

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Get your Irish on! By Sandra Galloway, Past-president The Lions Club in Washago is getting ready to host a St. Patrick’s Day dance. Lucky for us, this year’s celebration falls on a Saturday night so we expect a good crowd and a great celebration. The event will be held at the Washago Community Centre and doors will open at 7:00 p.m. Music presented by our DJ, Grant Galloway will start at 8:00 p.m. We’ll have dancing all evening, spot dances – and whatever else Grant has up his sleeve. As always, Grant will ensure a fun-filled evening for everyone. The entrance fee is only $10 and it includes a buffet and lots of munchies. Cash bar. …and dress up in your favourite St. Patrick’s Day outfit and qualify to win one of three prizes. The Lions Club members are also busy organizing another outstanding Canada Day celebration in Washago. Our pancake breakfast and live music always make this day a very special occasion for the residents of Washago and area. If you have any questions about our events or the Lions Club of Washago & Area, please feel free to contact one of us: Pat Stead 705-689-5669 • Jim Rice 705-689-8075 Sandra Crawford 705-689 9646

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Relax and enjoy your time away from your cottage or home!

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Karen O’Coin

Investment Advisor & Financial Planner 6 West Street N., 4th Floor Orillia, ON

Tel: 705-326-0891 Toll Free: 1-877-296-6956 karen.ocoin@nbpcd.com www.karenocoin.com

BMO Wealth Management is the brand name for a business group consisting of Bank of Montreal and certain of its affiliates, including BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc., in providing wealth management products and services. ® “BMO (M-bar roundel symbol)” is a registered trademark of Bank of Montreal, used under licence. ® “Nesbitt Burns” is a registered trade-mark of BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. BMO Nesbitt Burns Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bank of Montreal.

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March 1 Mixed Darts Nights will continue on Thursdays through March at 7 p.m. $8.00. Severn Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge. For information, call Blaine at 705-689-2291. March 1- April 30 Tap Into Maple this March and April and experience the sugary syrup first hand at locations all over Ontario’s Lake Country. Visit www.ontarioslakecountry.com for complete details on free things to do, outdoor activities, special restaurant menus and more. March 1-4 Orillia Winter Games, 3,000 participants, 25 sports, 20 facilities/ venues. Supported by the Ontario Government, admission is free. For complete information about and a full schedule of events, visit www.orillia2018.ca or call 705-3233549. March 2,3 Winter Carnival 2018. Downtown Orillia and Couchiching Beach Park. A spectacular winter wonderland

complete with a snowball fight tournament, ice castle, and the massive downtown Mount Mississaga slide. Polar Bear Dip at the park at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Polar Bear Dip registration and a schedule of all the carnival activities visit www.orilliawintercarnival.ca or www.downtownorillia.ca. March 5 Beef Stew Lunch, including beverage and dessert. Prepared by the Severn Bridge Women’s Institute. 12 Noon. $8. Severn Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge. Fern at 705-687-4462. March 10 Join our “Meat Roll” fundraiser event and win a full delicious hot dinner. A fun event at 3:00 p.m. at the Coldwater Legion. March 17 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Coldwater. Parade begins at 1:00 p.m. at the Coldwater Legion and runs along Coldwater Rd. to Gray St. & Sturgeon Bay Rd. then back to the Legion where you can enjoy refreshments

and live entertainment featuring Irish entertainer Bruce Nasmith. March 16, 17, 18 1st Annual Washago Carving Event. Free event. Live chainsaw carving show. Hand sculpted treasures. Auction on Sunday, March 18. Centennial Park Washago. Info at back-yard-stuff@hotmail.com. March 24 Jammin’ at the Coldwater Legion. Everybody welcome. 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Call 705-686-3388 for more information. March 31 Easter Extravaganza in Coldwater Village. Children can celebrate Easter on the main street – piñatas, games and more. More details at www.coldwatervillage.com. March 31 Great Easter Egg Hunt from 9:30 a.m. – noon. Bring your kids to downtown Orillia in search of colourful Easter eggs hidden throughout the downtown. Trade them for chocolates (donated by Apple Annie’s) at the egg exchange

at the Orillia Opera House. More details at www.downtownorillia.ca. MARK YOUR CALENDAR April 14/15 The Orillia Quilters’ Guild presents The Sunshine Quilt Show at Trillium Manor, 12 Grace Ave., Orillia, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Quilt exhibits and sales, members’ Sunshine Market, vendors, tea room. Quilt raffle with proceeds to the Activation Department of Trillium Manor. Admissions $5.00 per person per day. For further information, check our website: www.orilliaquiltersguild.com COLDWATER LEGION MONTHLY EVENTS EUCHRE - Tuesdays, 1:30 pm CRIBBAGE – Tuesdays, 7 pm FUN POOL – Tuesdays, 7 pm DARTS - Wednesdays, 7:30 pm SHUFFLEBOARD – Thursdays, 1 pm DARTS – Thursdays, 7:30 pm STEAK DARTS - Fridays, 6 pm

Visit me at my new office

450 West St. North Orillia L3V 5E8

Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative

Call me today 705-325-1366 *Independently Owned and Operated or Toll Free 1-800-498-8775 www.LeahCCavanaugh.ca

B.J. Roth Realty Ltd., Brokerage*

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.

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Lab created diamonds are optically, physically and chemically identical to mined diamonds, composed of 100% carbon with the same chemical composition, hardness, density, refractive index and dispersion factor. They are identical in brilliance, sparkle, fire and scintillation. Renaissance Created Diamonds developed a patented process of heat and pressure found deep in the earth. The results are stunning diamond-roughs that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to the diamonds found deep in the earth.

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Come to Richard’s for a beautiful selection of diamond jewelry designed with both lab-made and natural diamonds and see for yourself. For more details call or visit our website.

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Delicious St. Patrick’s Day Goodies

Roasts, Chops, Ground Beef, Chicken & More • Always AAA Cuts • Great Variety of Vegetables and Fruit

MARCH

NTHke!r has O M E L MAP our wizard/ba rts

Fresh to create a great meal! Canoe Signature Sandwiches Salads, Take-to-Bake Pizzas & Rotisserie Chicken

Looking for a quick lunch or dinner, this Deli is for you!

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us on Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Shag Fog, Chai Tea Latte, Green Tea Latte Like for updates or Tea – all with fresh bakery item or lunch from our Deli and specials