March 2022
Recipe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Message from new MP. . . . . . . . . . . 8
Wishing you the Pot of Gold!
The loss of a legend. . . . . . . . . . 16, 17 Local celebrity bird. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Celebrate women in conservation By Courtney Baker March 8th is International Women’s Day and I will make a special effort to reflect on the accomplishments of women worldwide. After all, there is much to celebrate. There are so many famous, incredibly accomplished international figures to admire and because of my occupation, I naturally reflect on Jane Goodall or Greta Thunberg. But this year it hit me. I don’t have to look beyond my own community for inspiration. At The Couchiching Conservancy we have a proud tradition of female leadership that has been present since the organization’s humble beginnings in 1993. Bright and accomplished women at the table, leading or helping to lead the way. Along with their partners and friends, they saw the coming juggernaut of climate crisis and developmental pressure on our region and they organized against it. Today, the Conservancy is at 14,000 acres of protected land and counting. For some, the term president often conjures up an image of a man in a suit but here at the Conservancy it is just as likely to be a woman in field clothes. Our Past Presidents Council boasts meaningful female representation. Their skill and knowledge and their passion for the
Some of the Conservancy’s dedicated women volunteers - Monarch monitors Susan Crowe, Clair Buchanan, Alesha Aggarwal, and Mary Ellen Mulligan. Photo by Ryan Lamoureux. organization has been essential to our success, women such as Janet Grand, Nathalie Rockhill, Jane Ball, Isabelle Thiess, and Margaret Pomeroy, all of whom have served with distinction. Having such great role models in place at the top puts a welcome mat firmly at the Conservancy door for all the dedicated and driven women in our region who want to make a positive impact on the planet.
Local women of conservation have serious impact on the Conservancy’s Board of Directors as well. Currently made up of nine board members, five are women. They are smart, tenacious, and talented and embody the leadership qualities the conservation movement needs now. Lisa Neville, Janet Machan, Kathy Hunt, Jane Continued on page 3
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Couchiching Conservancy 2022 Annual General Meeting Saturday, March 5th, 3-4:30 p.m., online In spite of this meeting being online rather than in person, the Conservancy’s AGM is not like any other. Yes, you’ll hear about their audited financial statement – and other ‘stuff’. But that’s only the lead up to what is always an exciting guest speaker. This year that speaker will be Julia Zarankin, an accomplished writer and respected lecturer. Julia has had many international birding journeys and is sure to captivate even the most inexperienced birder. You have time to register and join the 100’s of like-minded members and supporters, all nature lovers who understand the importance of the Conservancy’s protected 14,000+ acres in our community.
Register at couchichingconserv.ca
Celebrate women in conservation • Continued from page 1 Bonsteel, and Dale Leadbeater have all worked throughout the pandemic to keep our community strong. Their work powers local conservation efforts every day. There are many other women involved in our conservancy efforts, too many to list individually. Here are examples of the roles they fill: Advisory Council members, Committee members, and ambassadors; about 70% of our Community Scientists who work in the field in all kinds of rugged conditions are women; and we have many fantastic female staff. We will even be featuring a female speaker, Julia Zarankin, at our Annual General Meeting on March 5th. You can register for it by visiting www.
couchichingconserv.ca. Everywhere you look in the conservancy community there are women who bring us together and keep us pushing forward for a better, brighter future with not only flourishing lands, but healthy, happy people to celebrate them. Thank you to all the amazing women who make our work possible. Our community would not be nearly as strong without you. Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, a local land trust dedicated to protecting nature for future generations. www.couchichingconserv.ca
Washago and Area Senior Citizens Club dissolution A message to club members from the executive: The Seniors Club in Washago was formed in 1973 and in 1992 became a non-profit corporation. For many decades the membership was strong, but over the past few years membership has declined substantially. At the same time, rent, entertainment, audits and insurance costs continued to increase. As you know, the Washago Community Centre hall has been closed since March 2020 due to Covid-19 health restrictions, including now and for several recent months the highly contagious Omicron variant. As a result, the Seniors Club has not held a meeting for over two years. Without membership dues and meetings, the club has become unviable. The constitution states that when The Club is no longer viable, dissolution occurs. To complete this process, the Executive consulted a lawyer. The required “Letter of Consent” was sent to the Ontario Government. The province granted consent to dissolve on January 25, 2022. The balance of Club funds were donated to charity. The club email address list will no longer exist. Times change and things change but new opportunities will arise! The future for seniors’ activities in Severn: The Township is working towards future senior activities programming. More will be announced in a later issue of The Villager and on severn.ca.
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4 From the Publisher:
Is it over?
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
Should we be saying ‘hallelujah’, cheering ‘the pandemic is over’ and throwing caution to the wind? Or should we be a little cautious? Which decision will help to keep the most vulnerable safe for a little while longer? According to the provincial website as of February 22, 2022, approximately 90% of Ontarians are fully vaccinated, 2% are partially vaccinated, and 8% are unvaccinated. The vaccine rate for our province is extraordinary and one of the best vaccine rates on the planet. There is, however, no data about the 8% unvaccinated, particularly nothing about how many of those are unable to get the vaccine due to health restrictions. What do you think is the next most responsible step? Do you have concerns about going to a restaurant if there is no longer a requirement for patrons to be fully vaccinated? Are you completely comfortable dropping all restrictions or will you still wear a mask in public settings? Will you have dinner in a home with those not in your ‘bubble’? Some concerns moving forward: there is no longer mass testing by professionals so we don’t know the ‘real numbers’. We now rely on individuals to watch for symptoms and then take the home-based rapid test and to do that properly as recommended by professionals. We rely further on those
who test positive to stay home until they are completely better. These concerns are all legitimate but we might look at the numbers another way: if 90% of the population is vaccinated it may be safe to assume that that very same vast majority of the population will behave responsibly and do all the right things to help keep their community safe from infection. Numbers regarding hospitalization should make everyone feel very positive. We do know hospitalizations have not increased significantly for some weeks, including the number of patients in ICU. In fact, on many days we see the number has decreased, albeit ever so slightly. This is positive news. While writing this I see myself doing this: be very aware of any symptoms I might display; take the home rapid test as directed and for a few days in a row. I will isolate if positive and make sure to tell anyone with whom I’ve had contact. I will wear a mask whenever I’m around multiple people i.e. grocery stores and other retail settings. I’m not quite ready to attend in-person group meetings or entertainment venues. I’ll check back in a month. So, even if we’re not quite out of the woods, compared to where we were a year ago, my sense it is probably time to say HALLELUJAH, take a deep breath, be a little cautious, do what makes you feel comfortable, and help keep yourself and others safe.
Natural gas – not a good move In the February issue of The Villager, Ron Reid’s article questioned the increased investment by the Province to bring natural gas service to over 700 homes in the Washago area. He suggested that rather than expand the use of fossil fuels, financing the installation of energy efficient heat pumps for every household would be wiser and it would help to meet our climate commitments. It appears some Villager readers agreed with Ron. Below are two examples of the response his article received. From Cathy Massig: I really appreciated your article in the February 2022 Villager. I had no idea that they’re bringing natural gas here. I agree wholeheartedly with Ron. I put in a heat pump about 3 years ago. It’s so efficient and I love it. Yes, if they (the Province) would direct their money toward more practical things it would do us all a good service especially the planet! From David Daniel: I was thrilled to read Ron Reid’s article in the February edition of The Villager. He slams the Ontario government for offering a $26k subsidy per new customer to the providers for building a natural gas distribution network. This at a time when we should be REDUCING fossil fuel consumption, not increasing! How do we stop this project? Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.
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Keeping lakes, rivers healthy and clean - Severn septic reinspections Because Severn is a largely rural community, septic systems are installed at thousands of homes throughout the township. They are private sewage disposal units designed to treat wastewater when municipal services are not available. The Ontario Building Code breaks down septic systems into 5 different classes or types. For most properties without municipal wastewater service, a Class 4 septic system treats your wastewater below the ground on your property. Household drains connect to a septic tank, which is connected to a leaching bed (or filter-bed, tile bed, or weeping-bed) made up of pipes with holes, buried in gravel, and surrounded by natural or added soil. Residents are required to ensure their system is working properly and the township assists in those efforts through an annual Septic Reinspection Program. This program helps to ensure septic systems in Severn are properly maintained and functioning as they should. It is an important program necessary to protect drinking water systems and it ensures our lakes, rivers and natural spaces stay healthy and clean for everyone to enjoy.
Due to the large number of properties and limited time, Severn will not pre-book inspections. Residents in the Tea Lake and Severn area can expect inspections to occur in the summer and fall of 2022. Severn River and Sparrow Lake residents will have inspections carried out in 2023; and Lake Couchiching, Black River, Green © Can Stock Photo / GatorDawg River and Matchesdash Bay in 2024. These inspections will restart again every Once you’ve completed the work, please 5 years thereafter the initial inspection. contact Severn’s Septic Inspector for a reinspection. An extension may be granted, Fee: The cost for the septic system or an order under the Ontario Building Code inspection is $150 payable to the Township may be issued if the Septic Inspector finds of Severn. Payment is required within 60 that the work has not been completed. days of invoicing. This fee is separate from your property taxes. What Severn looks for: During an inspection, the Septic Inspector will look Exemptions: If your septic system was for signs of damage or system failure. installed within two years of the intended This includes: ponding (or water) on the inspection date, your property is exempt top or sides of the bed; sewage odours; from the inspection. damage or cracking of the septic tank; Also, if you have an Advanced Treatment any washing away of the septic bed soil; Unit (added level of treatment), your possible compaction or other impairments; sewage system may be exempt from this components that are no longer acceptable program if you submit a current service (i.e., steel tanks, direct deposits of gray agreement and your annual service reports. water, outhouses in poor condition, etc.)
Inspection schedule Inspections focus on specific areas each year. If your property is selected for the current year, you’ll receive a letter outlining the program details and what to expect during the up-coming inspection. You don’t need to be present for the inspection.
Deficiencies report: If deficiencies are found during the inspection, you’ll receive a report outlining what needs to be completed to ensure your system is working as intended and is safe to your residence and others. The report will also include a deadline to complete the work.
You can email septic@severn.ca, call 705325-2315 or visit www.severn.ca for more information and for tips on how to keep your septic at its most efficient. Helping to keep your drinking water safe and our local waterways healthy is everyone’s responsibility.
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Bang Bang shrimp By Chef Becky Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.
Ingredients: • 1 lb. large to extra-large shrimp, 21 -30 count • Sea salt and cracked pepper to taste • 1 cup buttermilk • 1 large hen egg • 1 Tbsp. total of garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, thyme (mix together) • ¾ cup of flour • 1 cup buttermilk • ½ cup vegetable oil • ½ cup cornstarch • 1 cup Panko (Japanese bread crumbs) • Your favourite hot sauce
Bang Bang sauce (for drizzling) • ¼ cup mayonnaise • 1 Tsp. rice wine vinegar • 1 Tbsp. local honey or maple syrup • 2 Tbsp. sweet chili sauce Whisk everything together and set aside (perfect if you can put it in a squeeze bottle) Method: 2 large bowls. In one bowl: mix together Panko and seasonings In second bowl: mix together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, hot sauce (pepper/salt to taste)
Taking one shrimp at a time, dip in buttermilk mixture; then dredge in Panko mixture. Press down lightly to coat with crumbs and seasoning Heat oil in a frying pan. Working in small batches, cook shrimp till golden, about a couple of minutes. Toss onto a plate or lined basket, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce. Visit a local brewery or cidery to pair with the shrimp. • 7 0 5-71 7-03 2 2 •
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7
Notice of Public Meeting Re: Housekeeping Zoning By-Law Amendment Take notice that the Township of Severn will be holding a Public Meeting on March 16th, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. in the Council Chambers of the Township's Administration Office to consider the following Zoning By-law Amendment application under Section 34 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990.
Details of application
How to participate
Applicant
Township of Severn
Application no.:
Z-22-03
Location
Applies to all lands within Township of Severn
Concurrent applications
None
Any person may participate in the public meeting and or make written verbal representation regarding this matter. Please note that all comments will form part of the public record. Members of the Planning and Development Committee will attend the meeting by Zoom only. We're committed to an inclusive, barrierfree environment. Please contact us if you require any accommodations to ensure you can participate fully and equally.
Members of the public can participate in the meeting as follows: Submission of comments in writing to planning@severn.ca or to the Township's Administration Office, 1024 Hurlwood Lane, Severn Attend remotely via Zoom with a computer or mobile device. Registration is required. Email planning@severn.ca or call 705-325-3215 x246. Access the link to the livestream at severn.ca or watch on the Township of Severn YouTube Channel
Purpose and effect The purpose and effect of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is to make changes, corrections and provide further clarification to various provisions of the Township’s Comprehensive Zoning By-law No. 2010-65, as amended. The following provides a summary of the changes proposed: Section 3 General Provisions: regulations pertaining to Accessory Uses, Buildings and Structures, clarifies how Accessory Apartment size is calculated, increases permissions and clarifications for size and number of residential accessory buildings as well as lot coverage of accessory buildings, regulations pertaining to Shoreline Structures to reflect the requirements of the Trent-Severn Waterway; states that swimming pools are not permitted within the Environmental Protection zone; removes side yard limitations and adds clarification on permitted deck encroachment into required front yard; refines Flood Plain policies, revises Garden Suite provisions to align with the Planning Act, updates provisions related to legal non-complying lots, buildings and structures; and, clarifies provisions to allow lots directly accessible by legal rights-of-way to be eligible for Building Permits Section 4 Parking and Loading Provisions: reduces setback requirements to road allowance for parking spaces to align with compact-form development; corrects terms within Table 4.1, clarifies the limits on the number of trailers parked on residential lots also applies to utility trailers and require screening; establish minimum snow storage areas for new commercial, industrial, institutional and certain residential uses Section 9 Miscellaneous Zones: added “Farmers Market” as a permitted use in the Institutional and Open Space zone Section 11 Definitions: revisions and additions to various definitions including Basement, Dwelling Unit, Farmers Market, Lot Coverage, Front Lot Line, Side Lot Line, Exterior Lot Line, Motor Vehicle Dealership, Active and Passive Outdoor Recreational Use, Recreational Establishment, Recreational Vehicle Sales and Service Establishment, and Front Wall Correct mapping errors for various properties across the Township The proposed Housekeeping Amendment applies to the entire Township and therefore a key map has not been provided.
Additional information
Additional information relating to the Housekeeping Amendment are available for inspection weekdays by appointment between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Severn's Administration Office, 1024 Hurlwood Lane, Severn. For more information about this matter, including information about appeal rights contact Planning staff by email at planning@severn.ca or by phone at 705-325-2315 x246. Dated this 24 day of February 2022.
severn.ca
8
We are all in this together By Simcoe North MP Adam Chambers
This will be my inaugural column for readers of The Villager since being honoured as your Member of Parliament for Simcoe North. My predecessor and mentor, Bruce Stanton was a regular contributor and I hope to do at least as good a job as he, promoting community involvement and informing you about government actions and plans that impact you. First off, I would like to thank Villager publisher, Ellen Cohen for providing me with this forum and for her support of the local community. The most important task I have as your new MP is to help us get back to our lives, our friends and families, and our jobs. The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in untold stress. While we can never get back the years and the burdensome expense of the pandemic, we can now start to get back to a “new normal”. As federal and provincial
strictures are lifted in an orderly manner, we will review what we have learned, and discover what that “new normal” looks like. I believe the first step is to put aside our differences and regain our unity, as a community and as a country. That phrase we heard during restrictions, “We are all in this together”, applies even more strongly now to our recovery. A critical part of our recovery will be to do whatever we can about the very worrisome rising inflation - or recovery will be longer and more difficult. Those who were most financially impacted by Covid-19 are also those who are hurt most by inflation. The cost of living pushes more and more things out of reach for average Canadians. I want to work with all parties in Ottawa to find solutions that will help families buy the essential goods they need, find affordable housing in which to live, and enjoy
recreational and community activities. In the coming months, I look forward to updating you here and am eager to hear from you on matters of federal responsibility. I will respond to every concern with answers as quickly and as best as I can. Adam Midland office: 705-527-7654. Orillia office: 705-327-0513
Organizing a Community Event? Let us know the details. We’ll include it in Community Events Email thevillagerpress@rogers.com
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Get involved. Have your say.
Shop Local © Can Stock Photo / topdeq
More important than ever As COVID-19 restrictions begin to loosen, local businesses need their communities to show support, perhaps more than ever before. Some have been closed more than open in the past 24 months; some have had limited capacity; and many have suffered from supply disruptions. Online sales in Canada, which have been increasing at a great rate for the past decade, increased from $57.4 billion in 2018 to $84.4 billion in 2020. The reasons for this increase are many but none more apparent than the pandemic. Online shopping, which has become convenient
over the years, became the safe way to buy almost anything. We are not a huge metropolis and there will always be some things we’re unable to find at local businesses, but not much. Before you go online, think about the local businesses who employ your family and neighbours, who support local events and generally prop up our communities. Give them a call and see what they can do for you. This is not just important to them. Your support will help to revitalize your community after a very difficult two years.
If you’re not aware of, or haven’t used the new and improved township website that was launched about a year ago, now is the time to log on. It is not only a site to find contact information, or tax deadlines, garbage collection schedules, or building permit details. There is a community calendar, maps, a list of facilities, and details about the numerous parks and trails. In addition, you’ll easily find council and committee meeting schedules which residents can then attend virtually no matter where they are. Instructions are on the site. Visiting the website also gives residents the opportunity to voice opinions and give suggestions on important issues. Look for the “Have Your Say” section which is where you’ll be welcomed to give input on a variety of programs and services. Right now the township seeks your input on recreation, transportation, short-term rentals, and the official plan. Through this forum, residents will help to shape the future of their community. Visit www.severn.ca.
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11 Any Ontario resident (as of Dec. 31/22) is eligible to claim this credit - only one individual per family can claim the credit. From the Service Ontario website “You can claim eligible expenses of up to $1,000 as an individual or $2,000 if you have a spouse, commonlaw partner or eligible children. You will get back up to $200 as an individual, or $400 as a family.” Eligible expenses are any short term accommodation of less than a month in Ontario between Jan. 1, 2022 and Dec. 31, 2022. The accommodations can be a hotel, motel, resort, lodge, bed and breakfast, cottage or campground but would not include a stay on a boat, train or other self propelled vehicle.
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Tax returns - medical credits Also, benefit from a ‘Staycation’ in 2022 By Mary Bax Most people know that the majority of prescriptions, as well as medical, optical and dental expenses, can be claimed as a nonrefundable tax credit on your tax return. What some people may not be aware of is that almost all pharmacies will provide you with a statement at the end of the year with a total of all eligible medical expenses that you paid for during the year. This is beneficial in many ways: it can protect your privacy because the pharmacy’s summary of what you’ve paid for does not include the individual details about prescriptions and your tax preparer will not be privy to what medications you take; you don’t have to keep every receipt of every prescription you pick up throughout the year – or remember where you put them when getting everything together for your tax preparer and because you’ll have the summary, neither you nor your preparer have to add them up. A new and important tax benefit to know about for your 2022 return is the provincial government’s Ontario Staycation Tax Credit. This temporary credit introduced for 2022 is meant to encourage Ontario families to have their 2022 vacations in Ontario. It is classified as a refundable personal income tax credit which means you receive the credit regardless of your income levels for the year.
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12
The Jams are back! It’s been lonely in the Lions Hall during the past two years. We were only able to open with limited capacity a couple of times; we didn’t meet in person and had no meals together as a club; and we haven’t been able to welcome our community to our well-known and much-loved events. Well, now things are changing – carefully, slowly and hopefully forever moving forward. We are thrilled to announce that our music jams have returned. They take place at the Lions Hall at 4343 Hamilton St., Washago. We’ll start with just two for the month of March: Country Jam: Wednesday, March 9th from 7-10 p.m. Rockin’ St. Patrick’s Jam: Wednesday, March 17th, 7-10 p.m. The club will be meeting in person in March and members will begin to make plans for what is one of the largest Canada Day celebrations in the region. For those who are new to the area, you can look forward to our famous Canada Day breakfast and all day/ evening BBQ, music and beer garden. To ask about club membership or to inquire about renting the Lions Hall, call Jim Rice at 705-627-3638.
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Artists, galleries, musicians – expand your opportunities By: Mike Bailey and Dennis Rizzo, co-chairs of the Orillia and District Arts Council (ODAC) Since 1999, the Orillia and District Arts Council [ODAC] has been supporting and promoting the arts in Orillia and the surrounding areas of Severn, Oro-Medonte, Ramara, and Chippewas of Rama First Nation. Now we are emerging from the greatest impediment to the arts most of us have ever seen. The pandemic and the resulting restrictions has forced artists, galleries, musicians, and others engaged in performance and presentation to reinvent how to reach their audiences. The new approaches offer some benefits over the old – the old provide a more meaningful interaction with an audience. Throughout these challenging times, ODAC has been there to offer educational workshops, professional expertise, community round tables, mentoring, networking, and support for artistic initiatives in our communities such as
Streets Alive, Starry Night, Art in the Park, Culture Days, to name a few. ODAC has helped artists of all disciplines promote and present their ODAC works to work through several annual events in the area. serve as the conduit for artistic endeavours in the area, providing marginalized populations to effect artistic focus and fiscal reliability for funders and participation for personal growth. Moving forward, ODAC will continue programs alike. The arts provide openings for self- to engage the local fine arts community examination and self-expression that in collaborative efforts, advance the might be hindered by trauma, age, illness, appreciation of all art forms, and build a or isolation. We know cross-pollination foundation for Orillia and the surrounding of art and social programming inspires communities to continue as an arts professionals and amateurs alike. To that destination. Getting back to “normal” will offer the end, we are now preparing two programs: we will work with a mental health group opportunity to build upon what has been doing photography to explore personal - and reach for what might be. Artists of healing; and a seniors program will bring all disciplines are invited to join ODAC and art into the lives of people living alone. In open up the possibilities to share ideas and fact, ODAC has worked with mental health your work. Visit us at: orilliaartscouncil.ca groups, seniors, women in crisis, and other
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Not-for-profits: prepare now for the new provincial act Get help from the local CDC
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If you are involved in a not-for-profit organization, you will need to know exactly what the new Ontario Not-For-Profit Corporations Act means and how to prepare. The new act was proclaimed on October 19, 2021. The legislation is the enabling corporate legal framework for most non-profits incorporated under provincial law. This act has been 11 years in the making and, although it may seem that your organization still has a lot of time to transition to the new rules, October 2024 will come fast. The changes are significant. For example, under the new act (ONCA), membership structures must be outlined in the corporation’s articles; non-voting members will have a right to vote as a class for certain decisions; and members can put forward proposals at annual general meetings and special meetings. The Community Development Corporation (CDC) is presenting a webinar that will help the local not-for-profits make their way through this new act. Presented by lawyer, Kellie Beasley, partner HGR Graham Partners LLP, participants will learn what the new act means and how your organization can prepare. The free webinar will take place on Wednesday, April 20th from 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Learn more and register at www.orilliacdc.com.
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Harry Lumsden made the world a better place by Ellen Cohen It’s not often we get to meet a living legend so when Susan Best, known as our #1 local Trumpeter Swan protector called me one day in February of 2020 to tell me Harry Lumsden was going to be at Washago Centennial Park, I dropped what I was doing and drove to the dock. There he was, being helped out of a van, a little stooped, a little wobbly on the ice and snow, with a his toque pulled down over his forehead, and a smile as broad and as genuine as I had ever seen. He was standing among his beloved Trumpeter Swans. Harry was taking in all the action when Susan introduced me. He told me he was excited to see so many swans in Washago. An extremely modest man, he did not want
From Susan Best’s Facebook post:
It is with great sadness that we share that Harry G. Lumsden, our visionary and mentor of the Ontario Trumpeter Swan Restoration Program passed away peacefully at home on February 8, 2022, one month shy of his 99th birthday. Harry, you were more than you ever wanted to take credit for. A humble and gentle man who did remarkable things in your lifetime. May you rest peacefully and fly high with the beauty of your legacy that now grace the skies throughout Ontario, February, 2020. Harry Lumsden, founder of your beloved Trumpeter Swans. It has been the Ontario Trumpeter Swan Restoration an honour to know you. Program shown with Susan Best, local Harry was born in Scotland and came to Trumpeter Swan expert. Canada during World War II after he joined to talk about himself. Instead he pointed the Royal Air Force. Like other British pilots, out that none of this would be possible he was stationed in Canada on a threeyear tour of duty in Alberta, Saskatchewan, without the volunteers who work so hard. After only a few minutes, I took a photo Ontario, and Nova Scotia. During a oneof him with Susan and he got back in the week vacation from his tour he had the van. He said his age made him feel the cold opportunity to meet with the staff at the and he could watch the swans from inside Royal Ontario Museum. Here his keen interest to learn about bird studies and skin the vehicle. That was my brush with this hero. Thank Continued on page 17 you Susan.
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17 Trumpeter Swan population was estimated in 2007 at 1000 birds and was classified as a re-established self-sustaining population in Ontario. Today the Trumpeter Swan Population in Ontario is 2500+ swans. Harry’s knowledge was self-taught by that of a hands-on curiosity to learn everything he could about a broad species of birds. Over his lifetime, he has authored over 100+ publications and a co-author on 50+ others. His life’s work has made Harry G. Lumsden respected throughout the world for his ornithological accomplishments. Harry received the Order of Canada in 2003 and became a Member of the Order of Canada in 2004. Harry is survived by his three daughters, Jennifer, Deborah and Diana and three grandchildren, Chris, Heather and Jake.
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It is because of Harry Lumsden’s vision and dedication that scenes like this are possible. Photo by Deb Halbot, Through My Eyes Photography. preparation catapulted him into the rest of his career. Following the war, he immigrated to Canada and joined the Ontario Department of Lands and Forests to continue his work with birds. For the next 35 years he conducted waterfowl surveys over the Hudson Bay and James Bay region with the Canadian Wildlife Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 1982, Harry’s work began on a recovery program in Ontario for the endangered Trumpeter Swan. After Harry’s career headed into retirement the Ontario Trumpeter Swan Restoration Program became his primary focus. Together with the aid of private funding and a group of dedicated volunteers the
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Accessibility improvements at Washago Community Centre The Township of Severn has been awarded $110,000 to improve accessibility of the Washago Community Centre (WCC). The funding has come from the Ontario Trillium Foundation Community Building Fund. The WCC, located at 4361 Hamilton Street in Washago will use the funding to install two sets of sliding doors with touchless entry. This upgrade will meet Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 guidelines, and enhance the ease of access for all users of this valued community building. The Washago Community Centre provides recreation programming for all ages and abilities. The centre offers a place for socialization, life-skills workshops, and opportunities for physical activity. Severn mayor, Mike Burkett said, “I want to thank The Ontario Trillium Foundation for providing Severn with this support which will allow us to enhance this community hub for residents and visitors. The centre is the ‘place to be’ in Washago and West Shore, and council and staff are committed to enhancing the accessibility and overall condition of the facility for our community.” The WCC sits in Ward 5 of the township and the councillor for that area, Jim McIntyre added his comments, “Council understands the critical importance of a strong community centre that meets the accessibility needs of our residents. We are currently undertaking a Recreation Master Plan which will ensure the WCC and other facilities in Severn, both indoor and outdoor, are maintained and improved whenever possible to support an active and healthy community.” Work will begin on this project in early 2022. The WCC will remain open and continue to offer services during this upgrade. Staff encourage residents to visit the centre and access programming options as available. Visit township website at www.severn.ca for more information on the Recreation Master Plan and to subscribe to updates. The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations. Last year, nearly $112 million was invested into 1,384 community projects and partnerships to build healthy and vibrant communities and strengthen the impact of Ontario’s non-profit sector. In 2020/21, OTF supported Ontario’s economic recovery by helping non-profit organizations and rebuild from the impacts of COVID-19.
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More than just swans
By Ron Reid
Last month’s Villager article provided a great overview of the Trumpeter Swans that gather each winter in the open water at the north end of Lake Couchiching. As spring approaches, the swans begin to disperse to other patches of open water, but the waters at the end of Quetton Street at Washago Centennial Park continue to provide good views of other species of waterfowl. Great flocks of Mallards spend the entire winter by the docks, taking advantage of the corn and other foods brought by visitors. If you look carefully, you should be able to pick out a few Black Ducks, generally on the far side of the channel. These ducks at first glance are very similar to female Mallards, but they have darker plumage and lack any white on the tail or wings. They usually nest in beaver ponds across the boreal forest. Another common visitor from early February onwards is Common Goldeneye, with brilliant white chest and sides set off by dark stripes along the back. Its head looks black but if you see it in good light it is actually green, with an oval white patch behind its short bill and as the name suggests, a bright yellow eye. This species spends much of its time courting with a complex series of head bobs, and frequently dives to capture fish or other prey. In the winter of 2014, Washago
Common Goldeneye pair: female in the foreground, male in back. was host to a close cousin, the Barrow’s Goldeneye, which usually winters off the seacoasts of Alaska and Nova Scotia. This rarity was good for the local economy, as birders from Toronto and beyond came to see it, and often retreated to the Log Cabin or other local spots to warm up. By mid-March, the waterfowl parade is joined by another highly active species called the Bufflehead, again with white sides and chest, but with a distinctive white patch on its head like a bonnet. Buffleheads are noticeably smaller than the goldeneyes, but it also nests along rivers and ponds in the boreal forest, so by the end of April will likely be gone from our area. The final species with bright white sides you are likely to see at this time of year is the Common Merganser, another fisheater that often dives in deeper waters. In this case, watch for an all-dark head and a slender reddish bill. This species nests locally in hollow trees or duck boxes, and can be seen in small numbers on Lake
© Can Stock Photo / devon
Couchiching all summer. Its smaller cousin, the Hooded Merganser, has a handsome pattern of dark and white with chestnut flanks. It has a white crest behind the eye which is often lowered, but is raised to its full glory when courting. So you may come to see the swans, but take a few minutes to look at the other waterfowl species that grace our winter waters. Washago provides an ideal spot to learn about an interesting and attractive assortment – a great way to brighten those winter days.
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.
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22
Community Events
This month we are thrilled to announce that there are places to go, things to see, and events to attend. Yes, there are! The Orillia Opera House, The Gravenhurst Opera House, Casino Rama, Orillia Museum of Art, movie theatres…the list goes on. They are open. They have programming and they welcome you back. Before you head out, remember that there will continue to be some COVID protocols. Be sure to check with the individual venue. Some facilities will operate at reduced capacity. Some will delay full programming until April. But you can start to make plans. When we prepared for publication, there were only a few events confirmed but please note things will change quickly. Keep your eyes on these websites: ontarioslakecountry.com; orillia.ca; severn.ca; experience.simcoe.ca.
March 3 & 31 Open Mic Night at Quayle’s Brewery, 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Calling all musicians and singer/songwriters. Sign up begins at 4:30 p.m. in our loft and runs on a first come, first served basis. Each performer will get a maximum of 10 minutes or 2-3 songs. Just bring your voice. Guitar and microphone are provided. 705-298-0204. Visit quaylesbrewery.ca. March 9 The Lions Jams are thrilled to be back. Plan to attend the Country Jam from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at the Lions Hall, 4343 Hamilton St., Washago. March 10 Chantal Kreviazuk, one of Canada’s most accomplished songwriters and most recognizable voices. 7:30-9:30 p.m. Visit the Orillia Opera House website or call the box office at 705-326-8011. March 14 Peace, Love & Menopause. A conscious yoga journey for the mature woman. For more information and to register visit greenriveryogacompany.com or email mel@greenriveryogacompany.com. March 16 The Lions Club presents the Rockin’ St. Patrick’s Jam from 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. at the Lions Hall, 4343 Hamilton St., Washago. March 17 The Coldwater Legion celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. A parade from the Legion along the main street 1:00 p.m. Live entertainment at the Legion from 3-7 p.m. featuring Bruce Naismith. Draws and prizes. March 26 Boreal, the amalgamation of three, individually successful singer/ songwriters, Tannis Silimmon, Katherine Wheatley and Angie Nussey. Spell-binding harmonies. A unique show that captures the variety and beauty of our ever-changing lives. Visit www.gravenhurst.ca for ticket information.
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Celebrity bird has a Washago street filled with enthusiasts By John Challis, Washago resident Trumpeter Swans in Washago have become a tourist attraction, and with good reason. A grey bird in a crab apple tree might not draw the same enthusiasm. Yet for serious bird-watchers, Washago is now a destination because of a grey, robinsized bird with a white eye-ring. Ontario’s online rare bird bulletins lit up on February 15 with reports of a Townsend’s Solitaire at the home of John Challis and Gayle Carlyle in north end of Washago. Birders began arriving daily, lugging binoculars and cameras with massive lenses. By Family Day, John estimated 150 people had dropped by to watch the Solitaire quietly flit into a crab apple tree every 15 or 20 minutes, gulp down two or three fruit, and flit back into the woods. A Townsend’s Solitaire should not be here. Not in Washago, not in Ontario, or anywhere east of Moose Jaw. It breeds in central British Columbia. Yet once or twice
w Noering ters s ff O Boo n i Sk
a year, a straggler will show up somewhere in Ontario and cause a birding kerfuffle. The sighting in Washago might be the first ever recorded in the County of Simcoe. To many in Ontario, it’s a lifer: the first they’ve ever seen. For others, like two women who showed up from London, Ont., it’s an important item for their Big Year. A Big Year is kind of a birding marathon whose goal is to record as many bird species in a year as possible; the record is 346, set in 2018. Others, including a few of Ontario’s top ornithologists, showed up just for the infectious joy of seeing this modestly attired rarity. Townsend’s Solitaires eat insects through the summer, but in winter switch to a variety of berries. In spite of their delicate appearance, they are tough birds. This particular celebrity may stay until the crab apples are completely gone. On the other hand, it may decide in a week or two that Ce G Av rtificift ail at ab es le
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An incredibly rare sighting of a Townsend’s Solitaire in Washago. Photo by Mike Beresford. it’s seen enough binoculars and cameras, and move on where it will be unrecognized — just a grey, robin-sized bird with a white eye-ring.
We are open for business! Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm As the province opens for business, and in order to keep our customers and staff as safe as possible, we continue to follow all COVID-19 protocols that health experts advise. We ask you to participate and wear a mask when you enter our store.
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