The Villager 2022 November

Severn leaders will take township into the future

This issue of The Villager features the last of our three-part Municipal Election 2024 series

In the days after the election, The Villager interviewed each the leaders who will represent the residents of Severn, the newly elected and those who will be returning Read about what they described as their gratitude, excitement and pride as they take the comments they heard from Severn residents during the campaign directly to the council table, or in the case of the trustee, to her board and the province .

To the obvious delight of the majority of Severn voters, this year’s election included online voting More than 70% of the voters chose this method rather than voting in person .

Mike Burkett Mayor

This will be Mike Burkett’s fourth term His reaction to this election was to tell The Villager he is so humbled the people in Severn supported him and allowed him to represent them again .

“The residents have entrusted me to lead this beautiful community I don’t have the words to describe the pride I feel The journey has been unbelievable . ”

Mike Burkett has decisively won the election to serve a fourth term as Severn’s mayor.

Mike added, “The results of the election showed a decisive response from voters for all positions . I already know this great team will be focused squarely on residents’ needs ”

His first action will be to hold individual meetings with members of council to ask them about their goals and aspirations He will also explain the budget process, and update each councillor on the status on such urgent issues as the potential annexation of Severn land by Orillia, and the township’s high-speed internet deficits

Other pressing issues to deal with include accessibility for all township facilities, something that needs to be fully in place by

2025 A report will be available soon, one that will detail what needs to be completed in order to meet the important and necessary provincial mandate . Secondly is the establishment of a recreation centre for Ward 4 . The fastest growing ward in Severn, it is the only ward that does not have a community hub He said he can see light at the end of the tunnel on this long-awaited project .

The mayor said he enjoyed the campaign process and congratulated his opponent, Mark Gibbons, adding “It takes commitment and a lot of work to campaign for public

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sacrificed.

A 20+ year municipal leader, Judith Cox has been elected as Severn’s next Deputy Mayor.

Severn leaders

Continued from page 1

office, especially when running your own business at the same time

Having an opponent during this election cycle gave Mike the opportunity to knock on doors and connect again with thousands of residents, especially important after more than two years of COVID restrictions and the understandable hesitancy to meet face-to-face

The mayor closed the interview saying “There is nothing more important than open communication with residents It’s my number one responsibility and the most satisfying part of my job

Judith Cox

Deputy Mayor

Newly elected Deputy Mayor Judith Cox said she is very grateful to the voters and thrilled with the new council team . Running in the election came from her heart and she is humbled

“We will have experienced and inexperienced councillors at the table For me, this means fresh ideas and new possibilities . I look forward to what will be an innovative council with great teamwork,” she said

Judith knocked on thousands of doors during her campaign and talked to residents in every corner of the township She said it confirmed two things: her belief that every ward has their own issues and personal desires for change; and that there are many things in common among all ward residents Top of mind, she said, are a desire to keep the rural and hamlet makeup of the township and remain a caring community;

the need for expansion of recreation and culture programs; and clearer messaging from council to encourage residents to always call about problems and their ideas

In her role as Deputy Mayor, Judith is eager to get back to working with the County of Simcoe as well as the preparation of the 2023 township budget

“As Deputy Mayor I will have the opportunity to work with the ward councillors, to listen to and support their ideas and the input they bring from the township residents I will be there to listen and to help,” Judith said

Judith has many years of experience both as Deputy Mayor and a ward councillor so she understands the need to spend tax payers’ money responsibly This means that not every idea moves forward However, she added, vision and cooperation will result in an excellent future for the ever-growing township .

“Yes, roads, for example, will continue to be of vital importance, as will all infrastructure, traffic control improvements and so much more But even as we continue to maintain our largely rural township, our team also has the responsibility to make sure this beautiful part of the world does not get left behind, that improvements are always in our plans, and that all residents feel they are not only a part of the ward, but the entire Severn community ”

See pages 15-18 for winners of Councillor Wards 1-5 and Public School Board Trustee.

CELEBRATING OUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY!

and professional staff.

for 30 years,

Ellen Cohen Publisher

thevillagerpress@rogers.com 705-717-0322 www.villagernews.ca

The Villager, a Severn Township community news magazine, is an independently owned and operated publication, serving the community since March, 2013 We publish monthly from February to December

The Villager is delivered online to subscribers through villagernews.ca .

There is no charge for subscribing but registration is required Once registered, the subscriber will receive the magazine via email on the first of the month

Editorial and advertising materials are 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 villagernews.ca

Art Director: Cathy Cleary

From the Publisher:

ImagineOn November 11th, Canadians take time out of the day to remember - attend a Remembrance Day ceremony, watch one on TV, or at least take a couple of minutes at 11:00 a .m . with closed eyes to remember the sacrifices made by members of the Canadian military - those who didn’t come home, those who did, and those who currently serve

Official records tell us the following about Canadians who served in conflicts: WWI, 68,000 were killed and 172,000 wounded; in WWII, 47,000 were killed and 55,000 wounded; Korea saw 516 Canadian deaths; in Afghanistan, 158 soldiers died

RCAF Private Joel Cohen and his friend, RCAF Private Fred Bates, were two of the 1.1 million Canadians who served in World War II.

We have no post-war statistics about what happened to those who survived a war except for the years following the Afghanistan war: 54 soldiers who fought in that war died by suicide after they came home A tragic war followed by unfathomable pain, followed by more death .

All of this is so difficult to understand, isn’t it? How mankind has caused such travesty is beyond comprehension We’ve been fighting and killing each other for millennia, either protecting ourselves or being the aggressor

My rose-coloured glasses allow me to dream along with the late John Lennon about a world in which there is no war, no weapons, no borders . The world will be one

But then, with a deep breath, I am shocked back to reality and I can’t help but imagine the late fall of 1939 and the sight of 18-year old farm boys wearing their new uniforms lined up at a train station feigning bravery instead of showing fear; or a newly-wed from Washago saying good-bye to his wife and newborn daughter; or a local teacher from an Orillia high school who has traded in his books for a ride on a military ship to cross the ocean and fight on behalf of his country

These visions bring me to a few conclusions: maybe humans have an innate desire to do anything at all to protect borders, customs, religions, or economy; mankind does not learn from history and maybe never will; and, in spite of a disdain for war, it is important to recognize, honour and reflect upon all lives affected by conflict, a conflict that nobody but leaders of some country somewhere felt was necessary

My conclusion: on November 11th, I will still sing along with John Lennon and imagine a better, kinder world, but I will also remember: my late father, Joel Cohen as a 20-year old heading out west in 1942 to work on Canada’s fleet of aircraft; and my late and very skilled brother, Captain Paul Lawrence Cohen who chose to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces as a member of the signals/intelligence corps I will feel proud of their accomplishments and their loyalty to our country

I will not forget

Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com . Letters may be edited

By Ron Reid

As European settlers first began to establish large-scale industries in this region, commercial sawmills were the first to take advantage of the mature forests that blanketed the landscape Rugged crews of men felled the huge White Pines, and teams of horses drew the logs onto the ice of winter lakes and rivers, to float downriver with the spring floods Mills such as the Thompson factory on Lake St . John produced thousands of pine boards each year to help build cities as far off as Chicago .

A different industry sprang up in Huntsville and a few other places To feed these factories, barges piled high with bark made use of inter-connected lakes to bring the riches of the forest into town In places, short-line railways were constructed solely to move this bark, peeled from the massive trunks of Eastern Hemlock trees . The bark of this species is especially rich in tannins, and the entire industry was based on its ability to tan animal hides into leather

On the other hand, Hemlock wood was considered so inferior that the peeled logs

were left in the forest to rot Small amounts were sawn into railway ties because of its ability to hold tight the large nails holding down the steel rails Hemlock boards provided the outside cladding for many a pioneer barn . But generally, the tendency of sawn Hemlock to splinter and twist limited its use

The tanning industry moved on to other chemicals such as chromium As a result, Hemlocks have recovered as a fairly common tree, especially in Muskoka . While it is a member of the Pine family, Hemlock has short soft needles and graceful drooping branches It grows in cool shady places such as ravines and the north side of hills where the soils are moist but not wet

One of the best places to see Hemlock near Washago is the Adams Nature Reserve on Coopers Falls Road, where a walking path guides you through a spectacular grove Because the mature trees provide such dense shade, there are only a few shrubs and flowers at ground level Whitetailed deer often favour Hemlock stands in the winter, because the dense overstory

lessens the amount of radiant heat lost to the skies on winter nights The deer have to wander into more open woods to feed on shrubby twigs, but will return to the shelter of these groves at night

Like so many of our local trees, Eastern Hemlock are under threat from a non-native pest, in this case a sap-sucking insect called Hemlock Wooly Adelgid Thankfully, this exotic species has not yet reached Ontario, but it has killed up to 98% of the hemlocks in the Appalachian Mountains in the Great Smoky National Park Ecologists there are experimenting with ways to control the Adelgid, so we can only hope they are successful

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 coauthored three books He lives in Washago with his wife, Janet Grand .

© Can Stock Photo / ramman3000

The bark of the Hemlock.

Artisan cheese board

By Chef Becky

A variety of cheeses with different colours, textures and shapes will add interest and help to make a beautiful and appetizing presentation This is a perfect dish for two people or a houseful of guests because you can make it as big or small as you desire . Add seasonal fruits and décor to give the platter a creative touch

A live edge charcuterie board will also contribute to the overall appearance of the platter - but use what you have available

Along with your choices of cheeses and fruit, there are two spreads you’ll want to include on this cheese board: smoked salmon and dried maple cranberry

Smoked Salmon Spread

• ½ cup cream cheese

• ¼ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup smoked salmon pieces

• ¼ cup chopped fresh dill

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

• 1 Tsp fresh minced garlic

• 1 Tbsp crushed capers

Put all ingredients into a medium bowl and fold together with a spatula Season to taste with a pinch of sea salt

This photo may help first-time cheese board ‘artists’ with ideas on how to arrange the platter and what might be added for visual attraction. Serve with your preferred Ontario wine and you’ll have a perennial favourite!

Dried Maple Cranberry Spread

• 1 package cream cheese

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• 1 Tbsp maple syrup

• 2 Tbsp orange juice

• 1 Tsp allspice

• 1 Tbsp grated orange peel

• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and fold together with a spatula

Chef Becky Lennerton is proprietor of Black River Food Company and the innkeeper at Sir William Mackenzie Inn, Kirkfield, Ontario

Autumn updates

We’re close to halfway through the autumn season and the Washago Lions are proud to say we continue to offer the community terrific events: the recent Oktoberfest celebration was a huge success; and Jam Nights continue every month, bringing fantastic, local talent to our little village

Oktoberfest took place at the end of September and the Lions saw a record number of attendees for this fun-filled day The festive beer garden was set up both inside and outside and was thoroughly enjoyed by attendees and volunteers alike Everyone had a blast dancing the day away to the Oom-Pah-Pah Band as well as Deep River Chris and Johnny Lebarr who filled the day with fantastic tunes .

One of the most important parts of any Oktoberfest celebration is, of course, the food Bavarian sausages were grilled and snacks were dished out A huge thanks goes out to Teresa from By-the-rock Farm

The fall colours in the Washago area were spectacular this year.

for making over 100 traditional cabbage rolls for attendees to enjoy . An additional thank you goes out to all of our volunteers, new and old, for coming out to support the Lions Club and having a little bit of fun while they did it .

Don’t miss out on the upcoming Jam Nights in November . Come out to perform or just to enjoy local talent, and dance the night away

• Country Jam Night – November 9th, 2022

• Rockin’ Jam Night – November 16th, 2022

If you’re interested in becoming a member of the Washago Lions Club, or interested in volunteering for any of our upcoming special events, reach out to us directly You can follow and message the Lions on Facebook @Washago Lions Club or email us at volunteerwashagolions@gmail . com

As always, we appreciate the ongoing support from our wonderful community and hope to continue these fun events for the wonderful village of Washago .

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Bivalent

By Jill Dunlop, MPP Simcoe North

I wish everyone the best as we move into this season of reflection and remembrance

My offices have relocated to better serve constituents across the riding: Orillia, 575 West Street South, #9, and Wednesdays in Midland, 320 King Street (Midland Public Library)

The government has done much work at Queen’s Park, and I am happy to share the following

With Health Canada’s approval of the Pfizer bivalent vaccine, everyone aged 12 to 17 can get a bivalent COVID-19 booster if they have completed their primary COVID-19 vaccine series Flu shots are now available through your health care provider, public health unit, and participating pharmacies and may safely be given at the same time or at any time before or after the COVID-19 vaccine

Everyone knows a small business that has made a difference in their community, from family-owned corner stores to brand-new start-ups .

Small businesses have faced hardship over the past few years, and we proudly celebrated them last month during Small Business Week Ontario proudly partners with Digital Main Street to help Ontario businesses thrive online and with Futurpreneur Canada to support the next generation of young entrepreneurs Applications are now open for Digital Main Street’s Digital Transformation Grant

The province has proposed changes under the New Home Construction Licensing Act to further strengthen consumer protections for new home buyers . These changes would double the maximum monetary penalties for unethical builders and vendors of new

homes who unfairly and illegally cancel projects or terminate purchase agreements

Money received from these penalties would go directly back to consumers adversely affected by builders and vendors who break the law

.

I look forward to seeing you at Remembrance Day Services across Simcoe North to pay tribute and honour all those who fought and continue to fight for our ability to live in a peaceful, democratic society

I want to thank everyone for their continued feedback and engagement It is my privilege to serve Simcoe North

© Can Stock Photo / dbvirago

Hospice

Hospice Orillia knows all too well how taxing the role of caregiver can be As an organization that supports those living with life-threatening illnesses, they have witnessed first-hand the need for support To deal with this need, Hospice Orillia has recently launched two new programs: Caregiver’s Connection and Caregiver’s Corner Support Group, both geared towards supporting caregivers of those with a life-threatening illness .

While Caregiver’s Connection provides support in a one-on-one setting, the Caregiver’s Corner Support Group provides a group setting

“Caregivers are such an important part of our healthcare system,” Stefanie Collins, Community Social Worker said . “We started the Caregivers Connection Program and the Caregiver’s Corner Support Group to provide caregivers with much needed support and to fill a gap in the current local services offered ”

The Caregiver’s Connection program

offers telephone support from trained volunteers who provide a friendly listening ear and a space to express the ups and downs of caregiving Volunteers will call caregivers weekly The telephone calls can be short and sweet, or last up to an hour The choice is up to the caregiver

Social Worker, and Daniela Accomando,

Stefanie

Community Social Worker, both of Hospice Orillia.

Accomando, Volunteer Coordinator, Community Social Worker noted

The Caregiver’s Corner Support Group provides a space to connect with others in similar circumstances while focusing on self-care and engaging in creative activities The arts-based program will run for sixweeks and is facilitated by a Registered Social Worker who helps individuals process the complex emotions of caring for someone significant in their life .

“Our goal with our new programs is to ensure that caregivers of those who are living with a life-threatening illness have a place to turn where they can connect with others in a similar situation . ” Daniela

Caregiver’s Corner will be offered periodically throughout the year and Caregiver’s Connection will be offered on an ongoing basis . As with all programs offered by Hospice Orillia, the caregiver programs will be offered free of charge thanks to the generous donations received from our community

For more information about Caregiver’s Corner, please call Daniela (705) 3250505 ext . 118 . For more information on Caregiver’s Connection please call Stefanie at (705) 325-0505 ext 211 Visit www hospiceorillia ca/caregiver-support

While remembering veterans, declare war on government policies

By Courtney Baker, The Couchiching Conservancy

As

‘bloom’ on lapels across the country, we turn our attention to the legacy of war Despite the time we set aside to give thanks and reflect, war is an unthinkable horror to truly imagine from afar and, even though we have news and video constantly coming at us from Ukraine, how can we understand the magnitude of the impact on a single human life, let alone the harm done to an entire population?

Today’s conflict in the Ukraine has led me to wonder what my grandparents would say if I asked them, “When did you know there would be war?” and “What did it take to make war real to everyday Canadians living so far away from conflict? Was it ration cards? A refugee crisis? Death?

When I look at my part of the world, I wonder what it will take to make the climate crisis real for everyday Canadians . Ration cards? A refugee crisis? Hunger? Death? The parallels to war are not reassuring

We are experiencing unpredictable weather that is causing food shortages Today we talk about how it’s been a bad year for grapes; for apples; for grain… the list goes on, and grows Although these shortages, along with rising prices, affects us here at home, we see too few people taking to the streets over the proposed highway cutting through some of Ontario’s most fertile farmland Will it take ration cards or displacement?

We know refugees are on the move around the world, including Canada, and we know our processes for accepting them are woefully lacking, giving us too little ability to manage the number of people fleeing floods in Pakistan . Are we even able to do our best for our friends and neighbours in the Maritimes who can’t stay in their homes because of the damage from Hurricane Fiona The seaside is no longer safe Where will they go?

What about countries with drought? Or people forced out of homes and businesses because of wildfires such as we see in Australia, California, Northern Ontario and Litton B C We are in peril . Now .

The effects of human conflict are too profound to overstate, but we must not take our focus away from the battle between us and the massive effects of climate change We must be aware of the result of building highway after highway, development after development, causing one disaster after another . We cannot continue as we are . History tells us war typically has an end and we hope that is very soon in Ukraine The effects of the global climate crisis, however, is only beginning . What do we do?

I say we declare a war, not on our planet, but on our policy . The earth is everyone’s home . Our enemy is the

Continued on page 11

Photo by Aiesha Aggarwal

Township Update

Recreation Master Plan Released

Township of Severn has developed a new Recreation Master Plan that provides a 15-year vision and framework for our recreation and community facilities

This project was initiated in 2021 to identify the recreational gaps, needs, and interests of

the past two years, thinc design consultants undertook a detailed review of the current state of recreation in Severn, including extensive public consultation, to develop a customized plan for the Township Council approved the final Recreation Master Plan on October 5, 2022

Recreation Master Plan provides an overview of Severn’s programs and events, facilities, parks, trails, and boat launches, and explores possibilities for the enhancement of recreation in Severn .

Mayor Mike Burkett stated, “Our programs, facilities, parks, and trails connect the people, places, and landscapes of Severn .

Looking west across the top of Lake Couchiching, a scene from the edge of Washago Centennial Park, one of the parks the township manages.

Making these connections is important in sustaining a healthy and active community . The new plan will allow us to respond to the opportunities being presented by the steady growth and development that is happening in Severn New recreation users bring new opportunities for responsive and forward-thinking recreation programming, and the plan will ensure we continue to grow and enhance our services for our community ”

The Plan contains needs assessments and recommendations for three service areas:

• Programs and events

• Facilities

• Parks, trails and boat launches

This master plan provides direction on service delivery and includes a detailed implementation plan that includes the year of implementation and cost estimates

Visit Severn’s website to review the final plan and the background reports, or follow @SevernTownship on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for any updates and news on recreation programming at the Township of Severn

Continued on page 14

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705-325-1366

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Indoor Public Skating – Coldwater

Come out and skate at the Coldwater and District Community Centre . For private rentals or to sponsor a community public skate, email pharwood@severn .ca or call 705-325-2315, ext . 253 . Residents will find the public skating schedule for Moms, Pops and Tots, Seniors, All Ages and the Shinny Hockey program on www . severn ca

Outdoor Rinks

There are 2 outdoor rinks in Severn – Washago Community Centre and Bass Lake Woodlands Park Openings will be announced on the Severn website and on their social media pages . Openings are weather dependent

Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment Details

Are you interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter with the Township of Severn? Firefighting is one of the most diverse and challenging professions known today . It is this diversity that inspires most individuals to enter the service, both as volunteers and career firefighters This diversity combined with that your skills may be needed at any time of day, seven days a week, in any kind of weather, and very often under potentially stressful and emotional circumstances, makes your contribution to the profession very personally rewarding .

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Visit www .severn ca/jobs to view the required qualifications and learn what you need to submit as part of your application . The application deadline is December 1, 2022

Parking restrictions in effect December 1, 2022

In order to allow snowplows to clear the roadways, Severn has put in place seasonal parking restrictions . From December 1 to March 31, you can’t park on a road between the hours of 12:01 a .m . to 7:00 a m Visit www severn ca/parking for details

Carbon Monoxide Week

Ontario’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week runs from November 1 to 7 Severn Fire and Emergency Services reminds residents to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) in your home by getting all fuel-burning appliances inspected annually . Ontario law requires that a working carbon monoxide alarm be installed adjacent to each sleeping area in homes that have a fuel-burning (i e , wood, oil, natural gas, propane) appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage . Contact Severn’s Fire Prevention Officer by email at fpo@severn ca or call 705-325-2315 x248 with your questions .

HILTON,

Mark Taylor has represented Severn’s Ward 1 since 1999 Except for two elections during that time, he has had no opposition and, therefore, has been acclaimed .

“I am so honoured to represent the residents of this ward and I work hard for them . I have great respect for them . I will always be focused on their needs and listen to their concerns and ideas . That will not change for this next term,” he said

Mark’s favourite part of the job is communication with residents They regularly contact Mark by phone or email looking for help . Often problems can be resolved this way and sometimes an in-person visit is more appropriate Whatever the means of communication, Mark says his objective is to bring all concerns to a favourable conclusion or at least a happy compromise

“Occasionally, I can’t solve their problems but there is always a reason for that My responsibility at that point is to explain the reasons, help the resident understand I believe honesty and trust make all residents feel they can count on me and the township,” he said .

Ward 1 is heavily populated with waterfront properties, including seasonal cottagers Residents are anxious for him to continue working on solutions for problems common to this type of community Three issues are: change the county garbage collection from Tuesday back to Monday in order for the food source for bears, especially green bins, doesn’t sit from Sunday night (when seasonal people go home) until sometime on Tuesdays; to solve the problem with the noise and destruction caused by guests of the short-term rentals used as party houses, including enforcing a noise by-law; and to accelerate the efforts being made with all levels of government to outlaw the floating cottages that dock in federal waters but disrupt homeowners and have potential to pollute the water .

Councillor Taylor is eager to work with the new council . He likes the fact that there are very experienced councillors, including the mayor and deputy mayor, as well as novices

“I think we’ll be a good team We’ll have good discussions and new and fresh ideas . I look forward to the next four years,” he said

Dan Janssen Councillor Ward 2

Only 2 ½ years after Dan and his family moved from Barrie to Coldwater, he felt so at home and enriched he wanted to reach out and serve his community

“Being a relatively new resident, I knew it would take a lot of door knocking during my campaign to introduce myself to the community and begin to really understand what was most important to them The work was well worth it Having meaningful conversations with residents, listening to them, learning about their lives and their needs, was the best . It was so rewarding . Now I can officially take their ideas and concerns to the council table I am very proud and happy . I feel great! I will work hard for Ward 2 and the entire township,” Dan said .

Dan knows there will be a lot to learn about municipal politics but the council team and Severn staff will help him with that In exchange for that mentoring, he will bring his own set of unique skills In his current 10-year role as the General Chairperson for the Machinist Union, working on behalf of his co-workers across the province, he is particularly adept at listening and negotiating .

“I have years of experience in moving issues forward, issues that affect people’s daily lives I believe this experience will benefit my community in so many ways,” he added

One of the duties Dan enjoys most about his current job is in-person visits to sites and his committee work Now as Ward 2 Councillor, he said he will eagerly add council meetings, new relationships with township staff, and especially conversations with residents

Dan is ready to work, particularly on the most often discussed issues when speaking to residents during his campaign: potential annexation by Orillia, a concern especially in the south end of Ward 2; protection of the land and green space and the sustainable growth of Coldwater and area, including ensuring walkability in new developments; the master plan for recreation; and the budget as it relates to continuing to provide the best possible infrastructure for Severn residents

Mark Taylor

Councillor Ward 1

Phil Brennan Councillor Ward 3

Phil Brennan was appointed to council only four months ago but he said he has had already had the opportunity to learn so much from council members and the staff team . He is thrilled to have the privilege of representing Ward 3 for the next four years .

Councillor Brennan grew up in Toronto and is one of many transplants who is so grateful to have settled in Severn . A forester by profession, he brings with him many years of senior experience with the Ministry of Natural Resources as well as the Ministry of the Environment where he was served as manager of the Environmental Assessment Plan .

Among other things that are exciting to Phil is his belief the township is on the threshold of developing a new, sustainable lifestyle He said he will bring his record of commitment to public service and steadfast service delivery to the people of the ward and the township

Phil is particularly looking forward to having input on the township’s Official Plan, a fulsome plan that looks at the township in its entirety

He said, “Not one councillor can do everything, or know everything But because we all have input in the Plan, together we can set targets, look at timelines, all the while knowing that we individually helped moved the township forward ”

Phil has set some priority issues: the possibility of annexation, the impact on taxes, and the general environment of the area; the lack of physicians - 12 family doctors need to be recruited by the end of next year; and a need to have an economic development plan that will look at expansion possibilities and solid growth, a plan that includes a solution to the lack of broadband in the township .

Phil believes that residents are looking for some changes in the township and he will not stop talking to residents after the election His plan is to spend time every week knocking on doors and talking to people about their concerns and ideas

“This will not only make sure I keep in touch with issues in a timely way, but will communicate to residents and business owners that I am here to serve the community,” he said

Wanda Minnings

Councillor Ward 4

Excited and privileged to represent Ward 4, Wanda looks forward to learning more about the many initiatives council is working on and she is thrilled to now be part of the process She will be able to speak on behalf of the residents but will also have a big picture of the township and understand what’s possible

“Knocking on doors was my favourite part of the campaign process,” she said “It was very impactful So many times people came out on the porch and happily engaged in conversation People wanted to talk about their community and I wanted to listen . ”

Wanda said that although there are always concerns in all communities, residents in her ward expressed a lot of satisfaction with the ward and the township The most often voiced concern was about communication

“It seems that many people either don’t know how to get Severn information or they aren’t engaged enough to reach out to it or participate in community consultations, not even the one about recreation . This is concerning because it is so important to the ward,” she said .

Wanda is determined to improve this situation She said the township has a wonderful, easy to use website chocked full of information She believes a way can be found to encourage the vast majority of Ward 4 residents to use the site regularly . Her goal will be to learn from staff and work towards a solution .

There were several common priorities among ward residents: the great need for a community hub in the form of a recreation centre; the continuation of safety improvements including building sidewalks and making sure all future roadwork will accommodate the ever-increasing traffic; and while residential growth continues, to blend the new with the existing part of the community, and to make sure wetlands and canals are never harmed .

Councillor Minnings is very proud to take on her new role She knows the mayor and deputy mayor from her past committee work and has met most of the councillors

She said, “This is such a great team . I know everyone just wants to work together and do their very best for the township . This is exciting . ”

When the previous councillor for Ward 5 resigned 2 years ago, Jim McIntyre was delighted that the township accepted his application and appointed him as a replacement . He is very happy to now have the opportunity to work on behalf of residents for a full four-year term in that same position .

“I was appointed councillor as COVID was at its peak and, sadly, haven’t had a lot of opportunities to meet as many people in my community as I would have liked In fact, during the past 2 years, I have not even had the opportunity to attend an in-person council

or committee meeting,” Jim said

Apparently one of the first things the new council will decide is whether they will go back to in-person meetings, stay with remote, or perhaps decide on a hybrid of the two

Either way, now with restrictions reduced and four years in front of me, I’m very excited to increase my profile,” Jim said . “I am already on the Washago Christmas parade committee, and hope to stay on others, including the one for Villages & Hamlets .

Regarding staff, Jim said “I am grateful to work with such helpful and knowledgeable staff Any questions I have, any help I need for a resident, they have the answers They have been so supportive It is a smooth running machine . ”

Top of mind Ward 5 projects for Councillor McIntyre are, because of timing, Washago-centric: make sure they have the traffic lights at County Rd . 169 and Muskoka St . are finished, currently delayed because of a shortage of parts; the installation of electric outlets on poles in Washago that can be used, for example, to light up seasonal displays, Canada Day decorations, and other village enhancements; and to continue looking for solutions for the vandalism in Centennial Park .

Lastly, Jim praises mayor and council for the openness they feel with each other, the ability to speak to them individually about common challenges and to bounce ideas off each other outside of council meetings He is confident the new team will be as open, work towards common goals, and be very successful

Janice Thompson

DIALYSIS PATIENT & VOLUNTEER

Soldiers’ would play such a role in my life. As a patient I know first hand the quality of care my community has access to. As a volunteer, I am honoured to be a part of the team delivering that care—because We Are All Soldiers’.”

“I never would have imagined

Janice Thompson, Washago Local

Jim McIntyre

Councillor Ward 5

Jodi Lloyd Trustee

Simcoe County District Public School Board

The role of a school board trustee is often misunderstood which meant campaign literature for Jodi Lloyd had to explain the job while convincing people she was the best candidate . Jodi managed this well and was elected

She has been in this job for 16 years, a school board trustee in an area that covers a 4,800 sq . km . area and includes 57,000 students and 7,000 employees . Jodi will also continue as the chair of the board .

That board takes on governance which includes the overall budget, capital needs, strategic planning, student accommodation needs, and more The trustees are also advocates for students and parents and are the connection to the community

Jodi said that running again for trustee was important to her because, especially post-pandemic, her experience will be helpful and she believes she will make a difference . At this time, the school system is experiencing staff shortages all while there is significant growth and, therefore, has serious capacity issues

“The job is a balancing act We have to be very careful We do not overspend the budget and are extremely careful with any reserve dollars . However, we also have a responsibility to address urgent situations such as the $2 million deficit the transportation division had earlier this year The board agreed to cover this from reserve dollars ”

Jodi will move into the new term ready to address consequential realities: the school board is over 100% capacity and it’s not possible to simply create more classrooms or even add more portables and yet this area is one of three of the fastest growing areas in the province

She said the board will necessarily work on this and many other issues concurrently, including post-pandemic mental health wellbeing and learning loss She is thankful to have regular and direct access to the Minister of Education As an advocate for students and knowing the group tutoring program was working well in Simcoe County, Jodi was able to convince the Minister to extend the program . This was a big win . ”

“We have many challenges but I know we are up to the job ”

Please don’t dump leaves in the river or lake

grow, kill fish, and eventually restrict your use of the

leaves; bag them and put them out for

or just leave them where they are

a float, march as an organization, or just come and watch Santa has confirmed he will attend

contact Judith Cox directly at 705-305-1086

information

Email judithcox@hotmail .com

Orillia

the age of

November 27’

November

A beginner’s guide to watercolour painting inspired by Franklin Carmichael’s watercolour, Old Barns Miner’s Bay Learn about different techniques and colour mixing Create your own watercolour landscape Light snacks and refreshments included All materials supplied Noon-2 p m . $30 Members $25 Orillia Museum of Art & History (OMAH) . 705-326-2159

orilliamuseum

November

Orillia Christmas ShopAGanza, 9:00 a m – 3:00 p m . Your one-stop shop for Christmas gifts So many wonderful vendors to help you find just the right thing for those on your list Free admission Free parking . Door prizes . Westmount United Church, 23 Westmount Dr S , Orillia

November

The renowned Cellar Singers present Dona Nobis Pacem, Ralph Vaughan Williams’ masterwork, along with works by Alexander Tilley, Stephen Chatman and Albert Greer 4:00 p .m . at St James’ Church, 58 Peter St . N ,

November 7

Shepherd’s Pie Lunch, including beverage and dessert 12 Noon $10 Severn Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Southwood Rd ., Severn Bridge

November 14/21/28

Seniors 55+, join the Orillia Public Library and VON Canada SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) for an exercise class – gentle exercises for those who want to improve their strength, balance and flexibility regardless of current physical ability Information: 705-326702

November 19

The 117th Annual Santa Claus parade returns to downtown Orillia 5:00-7:00 p m Floats, bands, marchers and Santa Claus himself . Bring the family and enjoy the lights and sounds NOTE: the route has changed from previous years: starts at Colborne & West St . S , heads west to Dunlop; east on Mississaga to Front St S Details: www orillia com/santa-claus-parade or 705-3264424

The 2nd of five in the 2022-2023 series from the Orillia Concert Association Christopher Dawes, a world-renowned organist performs at the Orillia St . Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on the 5,300 pipe, 1921 Casavant LeTourneau organ For information, email orilliaconcert@gmail .com .

THE WASHAGO

SANTA PARADE RETURNS!

December 9th or 16th

The date will be confirmed soon. We’ll will post the information in the December issue of The Villager.

For information, contact Judith Cox 705-315-1085 or judithcox@hotmail.com