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Farmers’ market opens in Severn Township

By Kim Goggins It’s really a perfect arrangement, when you think about it: local farmers partnering with an organization whose mandate is to support farmers.

Fran Pirrie, owner of FranniGranola thinks so. She and other food specialists, farmers and artisans will soon be calling ODAS Park in Severn Township home every Saturday between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

More than 50 vendors will be open for business at the Orillia Agricultural Fairgrounds on Saturday, May 3, 2014, when the first Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market takes place. Many of these farmers and artisans were vendors at the Orillia Farmers’ Market that still takes place in downtown Orillia every Saturday morning and has moved back to its original location at Market Square.

“The vendors that have chosen to move on to ODAS Park are really looking forward.

We’re not looking back,” says Pirrie, who is also chair of the Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers’ Market board. “We want to create a real farmers’ market run by farmers.”

The farmers’ market will be set up outside in the green space between Building 5 and the roller skating rink at ODAS Park and will also have full access to Building 3 on the property during the winter and when there

This winter, Adam Storey started these seedlings from seeds in his apples. Read about an Orillia seed lending program on page 20. is inclement weather. There will be lots of free parking, adds Pirrie.

May 17, 2014 will mark the Grand Opening of the farmers’ market with a cutting of the binder twine (as opposed to ribbon) at 9 a.m. and pancakes flipped by Severn Township volunteer firefighters to officially kick off the first season.

“It’s been very positive. Straight across the board, it’s been very positive,” said Pirrie.

“The vendors are looking forward to a new start and the new space and customers are looking forward to basically the same thing.”

Saturday morning bacon, eggs and pancakes every week and events such as Master Gardener Day on May 10, Natural Health and Healing Day on May 24 and dog agility demonstrations on May 31 will make this new farmers’ market a destination, says

Pirrie, noting, “We want people to come for breakfast and stay for the market.”

For a list of weekly events that will take place all year long, visit www.orilliafairgroundsfarmersmarket.ca.

Business profile. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Spring flowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Blues Fest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 News in Review. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Flooding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Recipe of the month . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

3

Dam is in good hands

By Kim Goggins The warm, sunny days of spring are a welcome relief to Glenn Hepinstall. The new operator of the Wasdell Falls Dam has worked through his fair share of blustery, snowy days adjusting the gates and keeping the top of the dam clear of snow and ice throughout the winter of 2013/2014.

But the early spring days when it’s crisp in the morning and blue sky and about 10 degrees in the afternoon, makes the chore of going out to the dam and manually adjusting the gates not quite an imposition.

In fact, he loves it.

“I really look forward to it; it’s very interesting,” says the Washago resident. “I wouldn’t have entered into this if I didn’t really enjoy what I had been doing (throughout my 35-year career) because I’ve been comfortably retired for a few years, now.”

Since September 2013, when he was hired

by Coastal Hydro Corporation to be the operator of the dam, most mornings have pretty much started out the same way.

First, Hepinstall jumps on the computer to monitor information about local water flows. Next, he checks the weather – what it’s been like over the previous 24 hours and what’s expected for the next 24 hours. Then, he heads out to the dam, just off Wasdell Falls Road, to check the manual flow gauge that is attached to a nearby concrete wall at the shoreline. Using this gauge, and the other information he’s collected, he decides what his adjustment will be to maintain the needed water elevations.

It’s not as easy as it sounds and not every piece of information can be found on the flow charts and discharge tables, but

With 35-plus years of experience working with the Trent-Severn Waterway, Washago resident Glenn Hepinstall was a natural choice as the Wasdell Falls Dam/power plant operator.

Hepinstall has developed a keen sixth sense about local water flows over his 35-plus years working with the Trent-Severn Waterway.

“If you just went by those (charts and tables), you’d have a problem,” he says. “You need experience to figure out what’s going to happen from the Black River with all of the different conditions it can have. Rain, snow pack, these things have to be considered and they’re not on the discharge tables. So that’s where experience really pays off.”

Hepinstall’s experience was put to the test, about two weeks ago, when he fought high winds and rain on the dam’s deck until about 10 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, and most of the day on April 13 in order to dislodge large items like docks, patio furniture and tree limbs that were stuck in the dam causing a slight back up.

Using a combination of moving the hoists and gates on the dam, he was able to relieve the pressure from some of the debris so it dislodged and found an open spillway

to move through. However, he and his helper also had to manipulate larger items by hand. Harnessed to a safety line, he used a pull saw to reach the debris and pull it up so he could chain saw it into smaller pieces that would go through.

At the same time, the water flow took its biggest single day rise up to that point in the season, up to 187 cubic metres per second from 167 cubic metres per second.

“I only had so much time (to get the debris unstuck),” explains Hepinstall. “I can’t close the gates for very long because it backs up the flow. We kind of have to time everything perfectly but we were able to do that and get the dam unplugged.”

The exceptional levels of snow that fell on ground already saturated from heavy rain throughout the fall of 2013 has contributed to flooding and the heavy rain hasn’t helped. At The Villager’s press time of April 16, flood alerts in the Washago area of Continued on page 16

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4

Kim Goggins Publisher, Editor-in-Chief thevillager@xplornet.com 705-689-5398 Ellen Cohen Publisher, General Manager thevillagerpress@rogers.com 705-717-0322 Register for the most current Severn news – delivered regularly

www.severnnewsonline.com The Villager, a Severn Township community news magazine, is an independently owned and operated publication delivered to households and businesses by the first of each month. Our delivery area is north from the Orillia/Severn Township border to Severn Bridge and includes parts of Ramara Township.

Bald Eagle on the hunt

The Villager is also available in select retail shops and restaurants along the Highway 11 corridor from the north end of Orillia to Severn Bridge, including Washago.

Editorial and advertising material is protected by copyright. Reproduction of any article, photograph or graphic is forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. 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.

Advertising, editorial and community event submissions are due on the 10th of the month for the following month’s publication.

Advertising inquiries: contact Ellen Cohen at thevillagerpress@rogers.com or 705-717-0322.

The Villager P.O. Box 5 Washago, ON L0K 2B0 Art direction and logo design: Cathy Cleary, www.cathycleary.tel

After reading the latest issue of The Villager, it occurred to me you might be interested in the pictures I took of a Bald Eagle chasing down a duck on the Severn River on Feb. 16, 2014 at 5:56pm. We live on Severn Street and our sitting room faces the river.

Two picture windows overlook the river, one facing north and one facing west.

I caught the huge wingspread of an obviously large bird out of the corner of my eye and then looked downriver to see the eagle pounce upon a duck which was skimming the river’s frozen surface. The eagle swooped and in an instant, the duck was enmeshed in its talons.

The eagle stood and looked around, quite nonplussed, for about four minutes before taking flight, the duck still impaled in its talons.

I’ve shown the pictures to a few of our river friends who, although living here for more than 25 years, have never seen an eagle, bald or otherwise in the area, let alone in the winter.

We enjoy the Villager.

Fred Cahoon Washago Letters to the editor are welcome and may be emailed to thevillager@xplornet.com.

Letters may be edited.

5

Fall in love with the energy of Mexico

By Kim Goggins There is just something about the vitality of Mexico that appeals to the senses. Susan Smandych felt it during her very first trip to the country in 1987 and the feeling gets more powerful with every annual visit.

The turquoise colour of the ocean and the warmth of the people she met caused her to fall in love with the Playa del Carmen area and when she met her partner George Genno in 2002, not only was she excited to introduce him to the energy of the region, she wanted to bring it back to his hometown of Washago.

“I found the Mexicans very friendly; it was always a great experience,” recalls Genno, noting he didn’t travel very much before meeting Smandych. “It got me outside the box when it came to traveling.”

The two began making regular trips to Mexico and they met a man who knew many craftspeople and the areas where they worked. On one trip, they met him in Mexico City and he took them on a tour of nine cities in eight days, introducing them to artisans throughout Central Mexico.

Upon their return to Canada, Smandych opened a store called Resource in Washago in 2004, where she featured some of the items they hand-picked during their travels, particularly in the municipality of Taxco, which is known for its silver jewellery. The store was very popular with Washago residents and visitors, but when the opportunity to spend more time in Mexico came up 2007, Smandych jumped at the chance, and Genno happily joined her.

Susan Smandych and George Genno spend a lot of time getting to know the artisans that create the beautiful Mexican products in their Washago store.

She learned to speak better Spanish, which allowed her to communicate with artisans and suppliers, making essential contacts for what would be a new business venture in the next five years.

La Bodega Imports started as a wholesale business in 2011, supplying merchandise to other stores throughout Canada, and expanded to the storefront in Washago, in 2012.

It features a quaint shop on Muskoka Street that embodies everything they love about Mexico and gives visitors the opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted furniture, glassware, rugs, hammocks, baskets and other artwork. The ‘Back Yard’ outdoor boutique on the property features stone pots for planting, clay barbecues and chimineas, as well as garden art.

Along with the wholesale and retail sides of the business, they also offer shopping all year long via their website at www.labodegaimports.com.

The doors open for the summer season on May 1 and will be open Thursday to Sunday each week, as well as holidays, until the end of Thanksgiving weekend.

Pieces that come back to Washago are chosen for their beauty, colour, and distinctiveness. The focus for Smandych and Genno is to select items crafted by artisans in Central Mexico from natural sources such as wood, tin, copper, fabric, and glass. There is always a focus on quality.

“We try to avoid plastic entirely,” says Smandych. “We’ve been in the factory where they make these items and it’s not on a production line. There are actually people cutting it and putting it together, finishing it and then it goes somewhere else to be painted by the artisans.”

It’s their relationships with these artisans that make each purchase even more important to them and they always strive to use fair trade and ethical practices.

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6

Sightline to Safety program will save lives Severn Fire & Emergency Services has created a program specifically for the deaf and hard of hearing called ‘Sightline to Safety’ and the Washago Lions Club has helped them assist Severn residents who require these life-saving devices.

“Smoke alarms provide early warning and save lives,” says Fire Prevention Officer, Dianne Kyle.

“But those who are deaf or hard of hearing cannot depend on the sound of the regular smoke

alarms to alert them of fire.”

The program involves a partnership with the Canadian Hearing Society and has two options of registration for the resident. The first option is a registry with emergency communicators so when a 911 call is made, the communicator will be able to advise the responders of the limitation, which will enhance the effectiveness of the response.

The second option includes

a home inspection to discuss what devices are necessary to provide early warning and enhance the chances of escape.

The Washago Lions Club recently donated $3,000 to the program to help those who

cannot afford the devices.

Donations from the public are also accepted through the Severn Fire Department to assist residents in acquiring these devices.

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Severn Township Fire Prevention Officer, Dianne Kyle (middle) joins Peggy Norton-Harris, Regional Program Manager of the Canadian Hearing Society (left) and Washago Lions past-president Jim Hanwell and members of Severn Council (behind) for a generous donation by the Lions Club.

Heritage barn will be centrepiece of new business

7

By Kim Goggins The heavy wood door has to be slowly dragged open to create a narrow entry point into the 19th Century barn. Some might say it’s dilapidated, fallen on hard times since it was last used, but not Steve Hinton.

After decades of restoring antique furniture and valuable items through Hinton Antiques, he has developed an eye for quality and the know-how to turn dusty old items into magnificent treasures. That is exactly what he plans to do to the former Ritchie barn and 15acre property that is set back from County Road 169, across from Rama Road, in Washago.

“I look at this and I can see what it will be. I know what it will look like,” he says, noting that nothing will be changed without direction from his wife of 48 years and business partner, Wendy.

“I want to do it right the first time and not have to go back and change anything,” he grins.

Once inside, the barn is surprisingly clean, smelling of fresh cut lumber, and boasts updated wiring, some new walls and sections of new cantilever flooring.

Hinton smiles when he points out the recycled corrugated metal that was used on the outside of the ‘new’ addition, probably built in the 1920s.

Visible from inside the barn, its nail holes indicate that the metal was recycled after being used for something else. Feed chutes used to send food to the animals below can also be seen throughout.

But this is not really what Hinton sees. He sees one area that will house an art gallery for local artists to display their work.

Another section will display

Steve Hinton of Hinton Antiques is all grins when he shares his plans for the former Ritchie barn on County Road 169 in Washago. “How can you not be excited?” he asks. unique dining tables and chairs.

The outside walls will consist of freshly stained board and batten, and sitting atop the six-inch roof of the lower-level concrete bunker, he envisions a screened-in porch with double doors that will extend out the back of the barn and entice visitors to sit out and enjoy the view – all without changing the original character of the barn.

“We promised the community that we would restore this, that we would bring this back to what it was,” he says, noting that they have also applied to the Township of Severn for a zoning change from Agricultural to Highway Commercial.

Community is important to the Hintons, and Washago, especially, because it’s where Continued on page 22

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8

Hairstylists are bullied by College of Trades

By Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop

As PC Critic for Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Reform I have been busy working with the newly formed ‘Cut the Salon Tax’ campaign to speak up for hairdressers bullied by the Ontario College of Trades. I have been touring the province, with stops so far in Peterborough, London, Brantford and Gravenhurst. I have met with over 200 hairstylists and apprentices at various salons. I have over 20 additional stops planned in coming weeks.

This tour has been most successful and informative.

Hairstylists I have been meeting with are adamantly opposed to

the College of Trades and the new Trades Tax being imposed on them. The candidates were faced with a deadline of April 8, 2014 to pass trade exams and pay new membership fees.

Now it looks like the Ontario College of Trades is caving in a bit to pressure and sending out letters advising of a limited time offer extension to those in the Journeyperson Candidates class. Hair stylist Kailan Ambrose whom I introduced in the Ontario Legislature as an example of someone who is about to lose her license because she has been having difficulty passing her exam, received a form letter in the mail.

The letter says “Due to the high volume of people now taking exams, you may find it difficult to take your exam before your expiry date. The College is offering you a one-

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time extension. If you contact the College and make your payment for the exam before your expiry date, the College will extend your time in the Journeyperson Candidates class allowing you to write and pass your exam until July 4, 2014.”

I find it very interesting that right after I launch my Skilled Trades in Ontario tour and just a few days before the second reading of my Private Members Bill

‘Saving Apprentices’ Jobs Act, 2014, that the deadline for her exam has been extended three months. Is this just coincidence?

Maybe.

Special Events: I will be joining Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton for an Open House at the Washago Community Centre on May 10 between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Please join us for a light lunch and conversation.

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10

Early spring flowers brighten landscape

By Ron Reid

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For many of us, one of the rituals of spring is a walk in the woods to admire the array of wildflowers that magically appear from the carpet of dead leaves. In our area, one of the best spots for this pleasant task is Grant’s Woods on Division Road, where the Couchiching Conservancy maintains a series of walking trails through oldgrowth hardwoods. You could also visit the Alexander Hope-Smith Reserve just north of Washago, or any of the County forest plots in our area.

Perhaps the most iconic of spring flowers is the White Trillium, so abundant that it acts as our provincial emblem. Like other “spring emphemals”, Trilliums bloom in a brief blaze of glory before the trees leaf out. That way, they can take advantage of the early sunshine to energize their reproductive cycle, and then coast through the summer in the deep shade. If you see pink trilliums, by the way, this is not a new species – rather it is the normal process of the White Trillium petals aging before they drop.

One of my favourite spring flowers is a delicate little white bloom with pink stripes, appropriately known as Spring Beauty. Another is Hepatica, which comes in a range of colours from white to pink to almost purple. There are actually two species of Hepatica in our area, easily identified by looking at their three-part leaves. They can be the Blunt-lobed variety, or its cousin, the Sharp-lobed. Another early spring exhibitionist is the Bloodroot, whose stem is topped by a daisy-like white flower, and loosely wrapped in a broad cabbage-like leaf.

Showy flowers are there for a reason beyond our viewing pleasure, of course.

The flowers are designed to attract insects to carry pollen from one bloom to the next, an essential part of process of producing strong seeds. Most of these pollinators are flying insects, not only bees, but a wide range small flies and other species attracted to the sight and scent of particular flowers.

Some wildflowers have a different strategy

to attract pollinators. Wild Ginger, which is common at Grant’s Woods, appears with a fuzzy heart-shaped leaf close to the ground, with no bloom in sight. But gently lift the leaf, and you will find a purplish belllike flower underneath, lying on its side right on the soil. The pollinators here are ants, attracted to the blooms laid out so conveniently for their visits.

The White Trillium is the most iconic of the spring flowers and acts as Ontario’s provincial emblem.

For a really complex strategy, consider the Jack-in-the-pulpit, where a greenishpurple cylinder creates a sort of roof over a dark purple spongy spike. Neither of these structures are the actual flower – their role is to attract fungus flies to their mushroomy smell. The actual flowers are tiny organs at the base of the spike, and each plant is either male or female. Incredibly, individual plants can change sex from year to year, depending on how much food it has stored in its underground corm. How neat is that!

A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the cofounder 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.

Taking a step back in time

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By Lioness Estelle Ness The last article I wrote was in February.

At that time when I looked out our window the snow was six feet.

Spring must be right around the corner because we are down to four feet. The birds are singing and the sun is shining, what more can we ask for?

Recently, I took a trip back in time. In fact I went back to April 17, 1975. Lioness Carol and Lion Harold Buckley were going through some files and came across newspaper articles from the Orillia Packet and Times.

The heading on one article read, “Flipping Good Time at Washago Community Centre.”

Pancakes were the order of the day served with sausages and maple syrup at the Washago Lions Club pancake supper.

They even had their own Aunt Jemima alias club member Doug Pyett. I’ll tell you, Lion Doug is the best looking Aunt Jemima I have ever seen. He must have been 6’4” and

320 pounds. The proceeds were to go to the and the new cost was $220,000. Well that proposed Washago Medical Centre. was 1984 and this is 2014, 30 years later. It We now step ahead to 1977 and the was an interesting trip down memory lane.

Washago Lions have taken on the project By the time you read this article the of a Medical Centre. When they first Washago Lioness and Lions Wellness Fair discussed designs and structure it was to will have taken place. We hope you were cost $110,000. The 3,200 sq. ft. facility with able to attend and enjoyed it. This is our four office areas and a main waiting area way of saying thanks for your support in all was proposed for a site on Muskoka Street, our projects. which was owned by the club.

The site was occupied by an old schoolhouse and park which was developed by the club for annual fall fairs. The school house was torn down and its bell was placed in front of the 3363 Muskoka St., Washago new Medical Centre.

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Dressing the Lady ‘better than 35’

12

Township will spend more money in communities

By Kim Goggins Communities throughout Severn Township will be beautified this summer, thanks to $50,000 in funding for villages and hamlets approved

by Council during budget the 2014 deliberations.

According to the initial proposal brought to the Corporate Services Committee, by members of the Villages and Hamlets Committee, Councillors Rob Ferguson, Jane Dunlop and Mark Taylor, Washago should see 10 new coach lights on Muskoka Street, from County Road 169 to Home Hardware, and two new lights on Hamilton Street, this year. Port Severn will also see three new coach lights on its main street.

At an estimated cost of $2,400 each, it could mean using $5,000 that was left over from the V&H budget last year and potentially dipping into reserve funds.

According to the committee’s suggestions, Washago will also see six planters with plastic liners and plants, two benches and three flag poles on the CN property (with their approval), for a total of $11,310.

Coldwater is expected to get three planters with plastic liners and plants, three benches and additional plants at a cost of $$7,530. Marchmont is expected to receive two picnic tables and four benches with playground equipment, while Westshore may receive a picnic shelter for one of its parks at a cost of almost $40,000.

Severn Falls is slated to receive two benches, three metal planters with liners and plants and a painted flag pole at the water’s edge at a cost of about $12,000. Coun. Mark Taylor also requested that staff look into creating more parking lots

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At this stage, most of these costs are estimates.

“All of these proposed costs are worst case scenario,” said Dunlop. “I would expect them to come down.”

Staff will come back with a report to Council on the proposed purchases after Clayton Cameron, Director of Public Works, gets quotes on the lighting from several different businesses.

Read past issues of The Villager online at severnnewsonline.com.

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14

Shake your blues away at Orillia Spring Blues Festival

By Kim Goggins

Orillia will host the blues once again the weekend of June 6-8, as the Orillia Spring Blues Festival takes over the city for the 18th annual edition.

The Main event will be a ‘Blues Party in the Park’ on Saturday night at Couchiching Beach Park. Bring your dancing shoes, because this is the place to get down and shake your blues away. Dancing under the stars on a beautiful June evening, to nationally known blues artists with a licensed garden. It doesn’t get much better than that.

The headliner on Saturday, June 7, is the show: Mad Dogs and Englishmen – The Music of Joe Cocker and Leon Russell. This is Lance Anderson’s (Maple Blues ‘Keyboard Player of the Year’) tribute to the 1970 concert tour and film of Cocker’s travelling circus of soul and blues music. This show has wowed audiences at festivals around the province and is a showstopper.

The evening starts off with a blues workshop featuring the artists from the evening playing impromptu songs together. This is really the art of the blues: Musicians ‘sitting

in’ with each other. There is always magic with each other. Always a great time. when musicians who don’t usually play The festival continues in the Park on Sunday together ‘jam’. with a noon hour Gospel and Blues Show The other main event of the festival is Friday featuring the great John Mays (Maple Blues night and Saturday afternoon’s ‘O-Town ‘Male Vocalist of the Year’ multiple winner) Shuffle’. Friday night, the downtown and Quisha Wint. restaurants and bars will be jumping with It closes with The Gary Kendall Band. Gary is blues artists. You will be able to ‘shuffle’ the bass player with this year’s Juno Award from venue to venue, sampling the food winning band: The Downchild Blues band. and drinks of the establishments and catch He has multiple Maple Blues Award wins as some great blues. bassist of the year, and his own unit has two Saturday afternoon will see bands on the CD’s under their belt. Great Chicago and patios and spilling out onto the street. West Coast shuffle grooves, with original Local merchants will have blues specials on Continued on page 24 for the festival, and local hotels will have special pricing for Blues festival goers.

Be well-advised The last thing Saturday at every stage of your life. night will be a Pro Blues Jam at a venue downtown that will begin when the Main Stage closes.

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15

Stanton introduces private member’s motion about Trent-Severn Waterway

Flooding in Ramara This was an ongoing story as The Villager went to press. To keep up with breaking news visit severnnewsonline.com.

Measles confirmed in Simcoe County The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit investigated a confirmed case of measles in an adult in Simcoe County and held immunization clinics throughout the region.

OPP cruiser sideswiped by transport truck Wintery weather on March 25 had OPP officers busy with multiple collisions on Highway 11 North, near Washago. One of the collisions involved a transport truck hitting a ‘crash’ truck on Hwy 11 North. An officer who was investigating the collision was sideswiped while in his cruiser by a northbound transport truck.

Severn Township man charged with child luring A 34-year-old Severn Township man was charged with a number of sexual offences after the mother of an 11-year-old girl contacted police.

Sand/salt storage facility on track In a report to Council, Director of Public Works, Clayton Cameron, suggested the township hire VanPelt Construction Inc., noting that their tender was the lowest of four, at $718,000. The other bids were $915,000, just over $1 million and $1.3 million.

Resort owner seeks septic approval from council but doesn’t get it A Severn River property owner has asked Severn Township Council to approve a proposed sewage disposal system upgrade on his property so that he can gain Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE). Council voted unanimously against supporting the application, due to problems they have with the proposed redevelopment on the site.

Seniors the target of scam he OPP says scammers continue to inflict financial and emotional harm by preying upon seniors and vulnerable citizens through the ‘Emergency Scam”.

G

W

NE

Lakehead/YMCA agreement supports community leadership Community leaders in Simcoe County can look forward to new leadership training opportunities in the coming months thanks to a new partnership between Lakehead University and the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka.

Riverdale Estates gets extension A 21-unit subdivision proposed at Riverdale Drive and Black River Road has a new property owner and has been given an 18-month extension to start work.

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On April 7, Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton introduced Motion 502 asking the government to consider remedial measures to resolve hazardous conditions in the channel between Lock 45 in Port Severn and Georgian Bay.

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Dam is in good hands Continued from page 3 Ramara were just starting, but the worst hadn’t come.

It’s Hepinstall’s job to keep an eye on the flows and be ready to act 24-hours-a-day, seven-daysa-week, as he did the weekend of April 12. The reason he took the job is because he was told

by Coastal Hydro that he is in complete control over the operation of the dam.

“The water will be maintained as it was with the Trent Severn in the very old days and the MNR in the last few years. The same ranges are going to be recognized and we’re going to control the water as good as it’s been and hopefully better than it’s been,” he says.

“Because I’m close, I can just go and do what has to be done. That’s part of the reason I accepted the job, because I didn’t want to be involved if it was going to deviate from what

people expect.”

Coastal Hydro Corporation owns 50 percent of the Wasdell Falls Power Corporation, which is currently retrofitting the dam to produce hydroelectricity, just as it did 100 years ago when it first started generating electricity. The company has also taken over the operation of the dam from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) and relies on Hepinstall to monitor the flows from the Black River and coordinate those flows with what the Trent-Severn Waterway discharges from Lakes Simcoe and Couchiching through the dams in Washago. This can be particularly precarious during the spring melt.

While Hepinstall does his job as dam operator, construction of the hydroelectric generating station is underway right beside the dam and the churning

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waters of the Severn River.

However, there’s little danger for the workers, he says.

“I would say there’s a very remote chance of any problems at all. What they’re doing there shouldn’t affect the flows in any way and there should be really no danger to them as a result of what happens this spring,” he said.

Once construction is complete in the fall of 2014, the

$12-million project will provide a capacity of 1.65 megawatts and generate about 8,500 megawatt hours of renewable energy every year. Through a contract with the Ontario Power Authority through Ontario’s Feed-In Tariff (FIT) Program, the province is set to pay 13 cents per kilowatt hour for the electricity for 40 years.

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A man who made a difference

By Doug Cooper Every Thursday night this winter I would find myself at the Washago Community Centre for a meeting of the Art Club. The nostalgic sounds of pucks hitting the boards of the rink and the screams and laughter of the skaters would cause me to stop and for a moment reflect back to the days when I was part of the fun.

Lord knows we experience winter in Washago and the rink has been, for generations, a great place to make the best of the cold weather. I can’t help wondering if the kids appreciate the time and efforts of the volunteers who are now and, in the past, working to provide a community center and a great rink.

When I think of volunteers that have given so much to the community, one of the names that comes to mind is that of the late Bert Ellis. There is a real possibility that without the efforts of this man there might not be a community centre or a skating rink. Bert wasn’t there for the fanfare, the photo opts or the accolades, but when the

A group of friends can play ball hockey at the Washago Community Centre thanks to the efforts of Bert Ellis. hard work started, he would be there until the job was finished and quietly did his part between projects.

Bert was the son of Thomas and Pomelia Ellis. Thomas Ellis had come to Washago in the mid 1800’s and was the village constable for over 50 years. He retired in 1938 at the age of 87 after officiating over security for the royal visit to Washago of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Bert had a number of half brothers and sisters in Toronto and three siblings in Washago. (Orma, Frank and Madilyne) Orma, unfortunately had hearing and speech problems and was

unable to work. Frank had a long career with the O.W.L.P. and worked for a number of years at the power plant at swift rapids.

Madilyne was employed by Carlton Cards for many years.

Bert worked the majority of his life with McNamara Construction as a Dredge Captain. His job would take him away from Washago during the summer months, but the nature of the work meant that he was off from early December until March each year. He would then volunteer his time to his community and to a love of hockey.

Continued on page 18

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A man who made a difference Continued from page 17 Bert was a hockey goaltender in the early years and can be seen in some of the photos displayed at the community centre.

It is hard for us to imagine, in this day of electronic entertainment, the importance to the community of the hockey games that attracted huge crowds. “Gundy” and “Toque” were the nick names that were assigned to him by the fans.

The Washago hockey teams were well known for their abilities and Bert was a part of the action as a player, coach and a supporter. In a conversation a number of years ago Bert told me of an important game that had been scheduled. The night before the game, Washago experienced a huge snowfall of more than three feet.

The next morning Bert and one or two others began to shovel by hand and the rink was ready to go by game time. There were no blowers in those days and it was a constant battle to ensure the rink was cleared for the kids. Bert’s dedication lasted an entire lifetime.

In his later years, he put in many hours at the community centre doing odd jobs that allowed the weekly programs to

run smoothly. He and Jack Carson were instrumental in researching the design and construction of the present rink. The surface of the skating rink was an expensive project for the time, but provided for summer use as well as a skating rink in winter. He sat on the community centre board for many years and although not overly vocal he always made sure the decisions reached were based on common sense and would benefit all of the community, and particularly the kids.

Bert often appeared to be a gruff individual, but if you got to know him you would soon realize his gruff exterior covered a community-minded heart of gold. Although he never married he believed that we do have a responsibility for our neighbour’s kids and he demonstrated his beliefs with actions and hard work.

On a personal level he cared a great deal for his sister Orma and ensured she was looked after. His family meant a great deal to him.

On a comical side Bert was most definitely a “Pack Rat”. He would save almost anything.

True to form though, if anybody needed something, Bert would jump into his truck

and, in a few minutes, he would return with what was needed at no cost. He was ingenious and once showed me how one could make an excellent fish smoker from an old ice box.

In semi-retirement he looked after a number of cottages in the area as if they were his own. Bert’s home and property (St George Island/ Ellis Island) now belong to Bert’s nephew Richard Ellis and true to form he and his wife Marion quietly put time in at the Washago Community Centre. They were part of the rebuilding of the community centre a few years ago. Marion’s skills are seen in the tasteful decorations that signal the holidays and special events. The Ellis tradition of community spirit continues.

There is a reason why the main room of the Washago Community Centre was named the “Carson – Ellis Room.” It is a testament to two remarkable people. There is a picture of Bert on the wall. Stop and have a look. Take a moment to reflect on what this man, who had no children of their own, did for all of us who go for a skate or attend a program at the community centre.

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Community centre ‘heart’ of Washago

19

By Kim Goggins The board of the Washago Community Centre is inviting service organizations and community groups to work together for a ‘common cause’.

At its Annual General Meeting, held on April 9, 2014, board treasurer Christine Hager told a crowd of about a dozen people that there is already some collaboration with other groups, but they would like to see all groups in Washago come together to raise $50,000 for the community centre outdoor rink.

“I know we all wear different hats but maybe we can wear a sombrero of different hats so we can all work together,” she said.

The board has already put in an application to fund capital projects at the community centre at a 50/50 split with the township, which means there is a lot of money to be raised.

Township (money) is important, she noted, pointing to the money they received in 2013 for insulating the building and a new

programmable thermostat.

Two capital projects on the books for the community centre are proper safety netting and lighting for the skating rink and replacing the worn hardwood floor that came from the original community centre in the current main hall.

Hager also brought up a library resource centre, a project that has been quietly in the works, and involves access to e-readers for residents.

“We feel there is a place in this community centre for something like that,” said Hager, adding it’s not yet known where it would be located within the centre or how it would work, exactly. “We have such a beautiful building here but it’s too bad it’s not used all of the time.”

The librarian from the Coldwater Public Library will be at the Washago Community Centre in June to discuss how to access e-books through the library.

Another focus of the board in 2014 will be

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The Washago Community Centre hosts many events and is a gathering place for residents, from youth to seniors. Membership is only $12. policy development for grant applications, selection process for the memorabilia case and hall rentals.

According to its 2013 financial statement, the community centre received $6,657 in grants and donations and brought in $76,766 in revenue through functions, hall rentals, memberships and program userfees. Facilities use expenditures for things like building repairs, program expenses, food and liquor purchases and permits reached $53,925. Operating and capital expenditures came to $27,248. The net annual profit is $2,250.

20

Seed lending program takes root

By Kim Goggins When Jacob Kearey-Moreland attended his first seed exchange in 2009, it was a transformative event in his life.

The event, held in Toronto, was called ‘Seedy Saturday’ and he could see in the thousands of people that attended that seeds and gardening had the power to bring people together in a community.

At the time, he was studying social networks as part of his sociology program and he decided to start a rural community garden in Orillia.

All it took was the creation of a Facebook page, an email address and an invitation for those interested to join him and this seed of an idea blossomed into Orillia Community Gardens.

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“People started emailing me, joining the group, and before I knew it my whole life course had changed,” he said.

A year later, Kearey-Moreland started a seed bank and in 2012, he cultivated a seed library at the Toronto Public Library. And that’s when he got the idea to start a similar program in Orillia.

The partnership between the Orillia Public Library and Orillia Community Gardens took root almost a year ago with the official launch of the Seed Lending Library on June 3, 2013. It’s housed on the second floor of the library, near the Information Desk.

People who sign out the seeds do not have to be members of the Orillia Public Library, says Kelli Absalom, Director of Information Services at the

library. “Our intention is to make seeds freely available to library users (and the general public) in order to grow their own vegetables and save the seeds – keeping some of them for the library and the rest for themselves.”

There is currently an assortment of herb, vegetable and flower seeds, which were donated to the library by Orillia Community Gardens. All of the seeds are open-pollinated or heirloom varieties, which means these plants will produce fruit the next season, the same as the parent plant.

The hope is that eventually the seed library will be selfsustainable through returned seeds. Look for tips on how to save, share and choose seeds at the Orillia Public Library.

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A community pulls together

By Kim Goggins The steady drone of gaspowered pumps echo through the Island and Ash Crescent neighbourhood, as neighbours have set up elaborate systems of sand bags and hoses to save their homes and belongings.

It’s Saturday, April 19, 2014, Easter weekend. The houses on the two streets off East River Road near Washago that are normally separated by long frontages and a narrow portion of the Black River are now all part of the swell of the river and the river bank hasn’t been seen in over a week.

Ash Crescent resident, Andy Stothers, has been monitoring the rise since it started and while the water is creeping dangerously close to his own living room, he is also making

sure his neighbours’ properties are okay and ensuring their propane tanks are secured.

He has so far been able to keep the water out of his next door neighbour’s basement, but at his own house, the furnace is off and they can’t use their water.

“My drilled well is 175 feet deep and we can’t use it because the septic systems are soaking in,” he explains. “Right now, people’s septic systems are not high enough and that’s going into our water stream. When this is over, the septic systems will be filled with sand and they’ll have to be pumped out.”

They have been through this severe flooding before – last year and in 2008. Stothers still laments over the fact that he couldn’t save his

SANTA’S VILLAGE & WASHAGO LIONS

For the second year in a row, students in grades five to eight from Rama Central Public School volunteered to fill sand bags for several days to help those affected by flooding. other neighbours’ personal belongings that were in their crawl space, last year.

He’s quick to point out that it’s not just his immediate neighbours that help each other out. The entire community has

come to their aid. For example, Frank Cooper Construction has donated the sand for the sand bags and students in grades five to eight at Rama Central Public School have volunteered their Continued on page 23

Saturday, June 14th • 10am to 4pm or Sunday, June 15th • 10am to 4pm

Washago – Its history, people and tall tales

The Washago and District Lions Club is pleased to arrange a day at Santa’s Village and Sportsland, Bracebridge for our community at a 72% savings. The regular ticket price for Santa’s Village and Sportsland is $73.39 tax included.

1:00 pm – 4 pm • Washago Community Centre

Our ticket price for this 2 PARK PASS is $21.00 per person tax incl.

Validated vouchers can be redeemed at the park gate for up to 6 people. Children under age 2 are still FREE. Ticket price includes: unlimited go-carts • batting cages • bungee trampoline • 18 hole mini golf • 1 game of laser tag plus all rides attractions and shows in Santa’s village including river boat cruise, park train tour, petting farm, visit with Santa, rock climbing wall, splash pad and more. Free Parking. 10% off camping fees.

(Tree Treking and Zip Lines not included.)

This is an amazing price for you, your families and friends.

For vouchers contact:

Lion Jim Hanwell 689 5629 • Lion Jim Rice 689 8075

JOIN US ON SUNDAY, MAY 4TH, 2014 LEARN ABOUT:

• Washago’s surprisingly wild early days – fur trading post, steamboats, logging, mills, whiskey & murder • Some memorable Washago citizens and families who left their mark on the community • The changes that time brought to the village and the keys to Washago’s survival over the years • More about the community, your family or the house you live in

PRESENTERS: Paul and Bob Robinson whose Great-Grandfather founded a General Store where Home Hardware now operates ADMISSION BY DONATION TO THE WASHAGO COMMUNITY CENTRE Light refreshments to follow.

22

Recipe provided by Kara Boyd, apprentice of Chef Becky of Black River Food Company.

Smoked Trout with lemon and dill mayo on a pretzel bun (Yields 4 sandwiches) Sandwich ingredients: • • • • • • •

4 Pretzel buns 12 oz Milford Bay smoked trout Butter for the bun as desired 1 cup Baby arugula 1 Heirloom tomato, sliced 1 Avocado, sliced ½ cup Alfalfa sprouts

Mayo ingredients: • • • • • •

¾ cup Mayonnaise Half a lemon zest Juice of half a lemon Sprig Fresh dill Pinch Cayenne pepper Mix all ingredients for the mayo together.

Preparation: Cut the bun in half. Butter each side of the bun.

Lay arugula as the first layer follow by sliced heirloom tomato, then 3 ounces of Milford Bay smoked trout.

Drizzled lemon and dill mayo over smoked trout. Top with sliced avocado, then alfalfa sprout. Sprinkle deep fried capers on top if you choose. Enjoy!

Heritage barn will be centrepiece of new business Continued from page 7 they lived when they first got married. Their successful business, Hinton Antiques, and their four daughters – Stephanie, Kirsten, Eden and Maegan – were all born while they lived on Green River Drive, and although they currently live in Atherley, they have a kinship to the people of this village.

The Hintons have been specializing in Canadiana antiques for 40 years.

Not only do they have showrooms in Port Carling and Atherley, they also take their quality items to antique shows throughout Ontario and Quebec. More importantly, they are trusted to restore and refinish family heirlooms in a

meticulous fashion, and their thorough evaluations help people establish an accurate value for their possessions. These are the services that will come with their latest store opening in Washago.

But when, is the question.

An unforgiving winter has made it impossible to keep to the May Long Weekend opening that they had envisioned when they first purchased the property in November 2013. But that doesn’t seem to worry Hinton, who takes it all in stride, saying, “We’re open when we’re open. It’s just a matter of taking it one step at a time.”

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A community pulls together Continued from page 21 time to fill bags with sand. It’s very much appreciated.

“It’s not just the people of this neighbourhood, it’s in the surrounding area, as well. There’s cars and cars of people that come in and sand bag for a while and just leave them for people to come and use.”

Even when the river doesn’t reach flows of more than 190 - 200 cubic metres per second, as it has this year, there is always the swell that turns their back yards into a lake every spring, and there is always a thick layer of mud on the lawns once the river recedes back below its banks. He and his neighbours will continue to help one another by raking and taking away belongings that are destroyed.

But why continue living in an area that will flood?

Stothers smiles and says, “Come back in July and I’ll tell you. I’ll be sitting on my dock with my fishing rod pulling out Channel Cats, Muskie and even Pickerel. The kids will be swimming in the river and we won’t have to worry about boats speeding up and down.”

He goes on to describe a quiet area with more private properties when the trees are in bloom and neighbours inviting each other over for a cold beverage or barbecue.

This is the reason that Rob McLaren and Barb Bissett of Island Crescent say they decided to go through with the purchase of their home last spring, when they had a very good idea how high the water could get.

“As a whole, this community is a tight-knit group,” said Bissett.

“What I love most is when you are out in Orillia and someone will recognize you. They may not know your name but they say, ‘Hey neighbour’. There is a real sense of community, here.”

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Severn Fire events in May

Shake your blues away at Orillia Spring Blues Festival

By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer

Continued from page 14

Join us as we introduce our new program, “Sightline to Safety”, developed by Severn Fire & Emergency Services for people who are culturally deaf, oral deaf, deafened and hard of hearing.

This joint fire safety initiative is a partnership with the Canadian Hearing Society to enhance your safety at home and takes place from 2 to 4 p.m. on May 22, 2014 at the Severn Township Office on Hurlwood Lane (across from the Orillia Square Mall, on the way to Hawk Ridge Golf & Country Club).

Learn what products are available to assist

you with early warning in the event of a fire emergency and find out what this free program has to offer and how to register.

Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Emergency Preparedness Week is an annual event that takes place each year during the first full week of May. This year, it runs from May 6 – 10, 2014. Severn Fire will join Orillia Fire at the Orillia Square Mall on May 9 to provide information and answer questions during this time.

Come and see us at the display table!

songs that will be a perfect way to end the weekend.

There is a $20 admission charge for the Saturday night ‘Blues Party in the Park’ which will also get you into the park for the Sunday program. There is no charge for the ‘O-Town Shuffle’ on Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Community events due by 10th of the month

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Building Homes Building Hope Habitat for Humanity, Orillia/Lake Country wishes to thank all the volunteers that work at the ReStore, on a build site, work on a committee, and/or sit on the Board of Directors.

Thank you is also extended to the residents of Severn Township and the surrounding communities of Ramara, Orillia and Oro-Medonte for their continued support, donation of products, and patronage of our ReStore.

Washago Lions will celebrate with other Lions

25

By Sandy Crawford, past president Washago & District Lions Club President Garnet Langille is proud to participate with fellow Lions Club members at the 94th Multiple District “A” Convention held jointly with “A 12” district, from May 2 to 4, 2014. The theme is Muskoka Rocks and it will be held at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, the beautiful resort area of Muskoka.

I am also excited to announce that the 97th

Lions International Convention will come to Toronto, July 4 – 8, 2014. Through our Lion power, we will make Toronto 2014 one of the best conventions ever.

The Parade of Nations will undoubtedly be one of the biggest highlights of the convention and it will take place on the morning of Saturday, July 5. The parade with bands and floats from many nations will assemble at Queens Park, behind the Legislative Assembly Building, and head down the northbound lanes of University Avenue to a covered review

stand for judging.

International President Barry Palmer has asked us to “Follow your dream” and if we all strive to make this convention the best it can be, we will have participated in one of the most successful events in the history of Lionism.

Where Lions gather, service happens, and attendees of the convention can take part in the Lions Care 2014 project to benefit the YWCA Toronto, which provides shelter for women and children.

There are so many people in need and we strive to do our best to help anyone and everyone we can.

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Licensed by Ministry of Natural Resources

Great opportunity to build your dream home

on this corner lot in the developing Westshore area of fine homes and estates. Westshore water/sewer debenture has been paid in full, value of over $16,000.00 which gives Don Campbell Real Estate Limited you the added bonus of economical taxes. Level corner Brokerage building lot measures over half acre with possibility of Independently Owned and Operated severance. Asking $84,900. MLS#586160310 Visit www.3514shadowcreekrd.com

Leah C. Cavanaugh, Sales Representative 705-325-1366 • 1-800-498-8775 www.century21.ca/leah.cavanaugh leah.cavanaugh@century21.ca

26 I work for you.

Janice Mercer Sales Representative

Direct: 705-330-2019 Office: 705-689-3700

www.janicemercer.com

B.J. Roth Realty Ltd. Brokerage

May 1 –7, 2014

The 56th Annual Orillia Kiwanis Music Festival takes place at St. Paul’s United Church in Orillia and the Orillia Opera House. Orillia, Severn and Ramara students will showcase their talents in brass and percussion, piano, string, guitar, vocal, drama and more.

May 4, 2014

Washago, it’s History, People & Tall Tales will take place at the Washago Community Centre between 1 and 4 p.m. Come out and hear the social history of this fascinating village, from well before 1850 to the 1930s. Bob and Paul Robinson will regale you with entertaining stories. Admission is by donation. All proceeds will go to the Washago Community Centre.

May 10, 2014

The Scott Woods Championship Fiddler – Old Time Jubilee will take place at the Gravenhurst Opera House at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children with concert proceeds going to support Music on the Barge. For information and tickets call 705-687-5550.

May 10, 2014

Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop and Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton are hosting a Meet & Greet at the Washago Community Centre between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. A light lunch will be served.

Send your group’s upcoming community event to thevillager@xplornet.com.

May 14, 2014

May 31, 2014

Mom2Mom Sale takes place at the Washago Washago Lioness will hold its popular Court Community Centre from 9 a.m. until noon. Find Whist at the Washago Lions Hall, beginning at gently-used children’s clothes, toys, bikes and 10:30 a.m. Buffet lunch, cash prizes, 50/50, door much more! prizes. Tickets are $10 per person. For more June 6 – 8, 2014 information, call 705-689-3333.

The Orillia Spring Blues Festival takes place, May 15, 2014 offering live blues music at Couchiching Beach Ramara Historical Society will hold its monthly Park with the main stage and beer garden, as meeting with the heritage theme: History of well as at a number of pubs and restaurants Brechin. Guest John Gardner will share his throughout the city. knowledge of the history of Brechin. The meeting June 6 – 8, 2014 takes place at the Udney Community Centre and The Spring, Boat and Cottage Show takes place begins at 7 p.m. The public is welcome. at the Port of Orillia and waterfront parks.

May 17, 2014 See a wide selection of new and pre-owned Heritage United Church, at 3332 Muskoka private and dealer boats, cottage and outdoor Street in Washago, is hosting a “Flea Market recreation displays. Large number of vendors, “Yard Sale” and “Sausage on a Bun” from 8 a.m. marine safety demonstrations and more. until 3 p.m. Lots of barely used items are being June 7 & 8, 2014 gathered up, so put this on your calendar, and The 8th Annual Carden Nature Festival will take take in some rewarding shopping. place and include a number of environmental May 17, 2014 delights. Birding, hiking, biking, paddling, St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Washago (corner of insects, reptiles and more. Family Fun Fest 169 and Quetton St.) is having its Annual Garage Saturday featuring hay rides, bird house building, Sale and Sausage on a Bun BBQ between 7 a.m. live music, exhibits, vendors and dinner with and noon. Lots of great items! guest speaker David Phillips of Environment Canada. The fun takes place at Carden Plain and May 17, 2014 Carden Recreation Centre, Lake Dalrymple Road.

The Washago Community Centre will hold its Registration with the Couchiching Conservancy Annual Garage and Craft Sale between 8 a.m. required.. and 1 p.m. Vendors can rent a table for $10.

Call 705-689-6424 to reserve space. Hot dogs/ June 13, 2014 sausages and pop will be available for purchase. Ladies Night takes place at the Washago Community Centre from 6 - 9 p.m. This is a free May 17, 2014 night out with the girls with psychics, reiki, aura Registration for the Washago Community Centre readings and reflexology. Female-led businesses Summer Day Camp and T-Ball will take place will also be setting up tables with proceeds from between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the community the rentals going to the community centre. Call centre. Register early to ensure a space for your Trish at 705-689-9083 or Heather at 705-689child.

6147 to book a table.

May 17, 2014

Music at the Bakery presents host band Sassafras along with feature act, The Marrieds, a duo from London, Ontario, and showcasing the duo Buttoned Down. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and music starts at 8 p.m. in the bakery of Canoe in Washago. Door cover to go to performers is $12/person or $20/couple. Fresh baked goods, tea and coffee also on sale.

Nick Drury, Tom Launchbury, Ethan Hannah and Elisabeth Hannah show off the race cars May 23 & 23, 2014 they designed and raced at the Cub Car Races Downtown Orillia’s Street Mania and Sidewalk Sale takes place and offers two days of held in Washago. savings from downtown merchants as well as entertainment, great dining and more.

Peter Sneyd (left) helps his friend Harrison Storey collect sap, at the Storey property in Severn Township, to make maple syrup.

NEW SIGN. SAME WINDSHIELD REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT EXPERTISE. We’re joining forces with Speedy Glass®, Canada’s leader in vehicle glass repair and replacement so you’ll get more great services like on line booking and a comprehensive national warranty. All that, and you still get the same folks you know behind the counter.

Welcome to our new Speedy Glass® service centre.

®

Bill Farewell

This Apple Auto Glass® location is changing to Speedy Glass®

315 West St. S Orillia

705.325.3500 speedyglass.ca

3384 Muskoka Street, Washago

705.514.5000

www.canoefreshfoods.ca Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. | Sunday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Fresh AAA Str iploin Steaks • Thick Cut Pork Fresh Chicken Chops • Freshly Grou n d B e ef Burgers & Sau sages Great Selectio n of BBQ Sauce

• • • •

Fresh fruits & vegetables Huge stock of competitively-priced groceries Deli counter Kawartha Dairy ice cream

• Freshly baked breads, buns and sweets • Double-decker brownies • Delicious scones made from fresh cream • Selection of fabulous pies Large selection of fireworks available.

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Join us Saturday, May 17. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Music begins at 8. Enjoy our host band Sassafras along with The Marrieds, a duo from London, Ontario plus the duo Buttoned Down.