The Villager 2020 September by Villager Community News

September 2020

Bayou Park refuge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Mayor’s message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Nature’s scavengers. . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Give generously. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Activity increases as township opens up Township of Severn expands in-person services Ontario is now well into Stage 3 and municipalities across the province are carefully and safely opening up their offices. This is good news for Severn residents who have been relying on email and telephone calls to do business with the township administration office. To help residents with the phased-in inperson visits in the most efficient manner, and because there are still many staff who are working alternate days, at home and in the office, the township recommends booking an appointment before heading to the administration offices. Booking ahead will not only reduce your wait time but it will ensure residents will be able to spend time with the staff member who can be of the utmost assistance. As can be imagined, there are still some issues to be dealt with because of ongoing pandemic concerns, most especially safety precautions to protect visitors and staff. Limiting exposure to the least amount of people and keeping up appropriate social distancing are still paramount. All visitors must comply with the following safety protocols: • Wear a face covering such as a mask,

bandana or scarf that covers the nose, mouth and chin; • Complete the township’s screening for symptoms of COVID-19; • Sanitize hands upon entering the building; • Keep at least two metres from others. As a further precaution, the township building undergoes regular enhanced cleaning to ensure a safe public space. If residents need to drop something off at the township and do not need in person assistance, a drop box is available at the front of the Administration Office. “We encourage residents to continue to use our contactless options,” said Mayor

Mike Burkett. “For example, to pay bills, in addition to the drop box, residents have the options of online or telephone banking, preauthorized payments, or sending a cheque by mail. Residents can find instructions on the township website or call us directly.” The administration offices are open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. For information and to book an appointment, call 705-325-2315 or email info@townshipofsevern.com. If you visit the website, you’ll find a complete list of departments and staff. Continued on page 12

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A most generous and important donation the new Taylor Nature Reserve By Courtney Baker Despite the huge challenge presented to all of us in 2020, the story of conservation in our region is a successful one. The Couchiching Conservancy has now taken possession of the new 175 acre Taylor Nature Reserve on Black River Road, a property that is a beautiful haven for countless species. The reserve was a joint effort funded by Charlene and Ron Taylor, who made a large and generous donation of 80% of the property. We had further help from the Echo Foundation, McLean Foundation, Consecon Foundation, Ganawenim Meshkiki (Eastern Georgian Bay Initiative), Dr. Nancy Ironside and generous supporters like you. The reserve is not yet open to the public but staff have been able to visit, while practicing physical distancing, and become more familiar with the new reserve. The Taylor reserve will strengthen the Black River Wildlands corridor, one of the most critical and diverse areas The Couchiching Conservancy manages. The property is hugely varied with rock barrens, wetlands, ponds, forest and all of the unique species that come with it. Thanks to the support of the Taylors, our partners and donors, it will be a healthy and safe home for wildlife forever. During our preliminary visit, we found recent evidence of bear and moose. Some

Development coordinator Tanya Clark made a new friend at Taylor Nature Reserve on Black River Road. staff members saw new species for the first time. These exciting creatures are some of hundreds we can see on the reserve, and of many thousands when you magnify things. After a picnic lunch, we had a guided tour led by our ecologist, David Hawke who explained about some of the geology and ecology of the acreage. We stopped at a beautiful pond of water and lingered for quite a while to drank in the sight of water lilies. We looked for birds, frogs and turtles, and thought about how special this place is and how heroic our donors are for saving it. While we reflected on the work of all the caring people who made this miracle possible, our executive director, Mark Bisset quoted a Jewish proverb that states “he who saves one person, saves the world entire”. Those words finally expressed for me what I have felt a thousand-fold and each time The Conservancy protects a property:

the deep and almost indefinable feeling that conservation is so much bigger than any of us. That each insect, fish and bird deserves to be here, to live their lives, and that we don’t have the right to take their world away from them. Conservation brings out the best of us; similar to the generosity and gentle nature that is so apparent in every child. It is our chance to give back to a world that has given us so much, and it feels magical. We have cause to celebrate. The Taylors have shown leadership and vision. They have shared what they have for the good of all of us. Their generosity saves hundreds, even thousands of species and the world became a better place. Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, protecting nature for future generations, www. couchichingconserv.ca

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4 From the Publisher:

Ellen Cohen Publisher

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705-717-0322 The Villager, a Severn Township community news magazine, is an independently owned and operated publication delivered to households and businesses on or before the first day of every month. It is mailed through Canada Post north from the Severn Township/Orillia border to Severn Bridge and includes parts of Ramara Township. In addition to Canada Post delivery, The Villager is distributed each month through high traffic locations along the Highway 11 corridor and in many other select locations in Orillia. For a complete list of locations email thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Editorial and advertising material is protected by copyright. Reproduction of any article, photograph or graphic is forbidden without the express permission of the publisher. The sentiments of our columnists do not necessarily reflect those of The Villager. The Villager’s liability to advertisers for errors is limited to the portion of the advertisement in which an error occurs and only if the error is the fault of The Villager. Community event submissions and prearranged editorial contributions must be received by the 10th of each month for the following month’s publication. Advertising space must be booked by the 10th of each month in order to appear in the following month’s publication, with 5 business days thereafter to complete the advertising artwork and proof approval process.

The Villager P.O. Box 5 Washago, ON L0K 2B0 Art director: Cathy Cleary

Last month I wrote an article about bad behaviour at our local post office, specifically rudeness I had observed directed at the employees. Since then, I received an email from a Villager reader who said that bad behaviour can be on both sides of a counter at any business. She also pointed out that since COVID-19, many of us are feeling on edge. Although this doesn’t excuse rudeness to post office employees, what she said is very true. As soon as I enter a store I feel a little itchy, uneasy. Seeing everyone wearing masks and watching everyone keep their distance makes me feel unsettled. Yes, of course, mask wearing and social distancing are absolutely necessary. It is a small price to pay in order to accomplish the maximum safety of our community. I follow protocols to the letter. But hiding my face and keeping my distance just isn’t normal. I love to smile. And in our wonderful small community, it is always reciprocal. When I smile at someone, they automatically smile back. When my face is covered, there is no way for people to know what I’m thinking. People might think I am rude or unhappy, not feeling well or not happy to see them Heck, because everyone is wearing a mask, when I wander through Canoe Fresh Foods in Washago I don’t even recognize my neighbours! Shopping has become a lonely outing.

What has happened to our smiles?

So I’ve been thinking. Starting today I will make use of three signals to try and make up for the lack of my visible smile. I am serious. I am hoping it will improve my communication and help other people realize how much they are missed, or appreciated. One: thumbs up. An enthusiastic thumbs up. Accompanied by an equally enthusiastic thank you or a nice to see you. Two: a distanced pretend hug. This will be a good one for those people you’re really happy to see, someone you might normally hug when you meet for lunch. It is an easy thing to do: just wrap my arms around my shoulders, squeeze and say hug. Three: raising of my eyebrows. Enthusiastically. Several times to make sure the person on the receiving end notices. It might not be as effective as thumbs up but I can practice this in the mirror until I get it right. A side note: I just know there are readers, right now, thinking about other hand signals to use for improved communication. I’ll leave it to you to decide which ones would be appropriate!

A note to a local landlord: I have the distinct pleasure of regularly speaking with local business owners from Severn Bridge, through Washago and into Orillia. I know the pandemic has caused untold difficulties but they have been brave and innovative throughout forced closures or partial closures. Early on in the pandemic, the Government of Ontario introduced a commercial rent subsidy for landlords. It guaranteed 75% of the rent to the landlord and meant that small businesses could hang in there until the worst was over. Unbelievably, some landlords in our province elected not to apply for the subsidy and expected their tenants to pay full rent, even while businesses were closed. The result, of course, was that some businesses were forced to close their doors – forever. Without disclosing confidential information, I can happily report that landlords in our part of the world value their tenants. Local landlords took the time to apply for the program. They received their 75% of rent, held on to their long-term tenants, and guaranteed a healthy future for themselves, their tenant and the community. Landlords, you know who you are. Our community thanks you. Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.

Please - keep talking There are likely very few people reading this article who haven’t been touched by a suicide attempt or a loss – family members, friends, or community members. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), recent statistics show that every day in Canada 10 people will end their lives, and up to 200 will make an attempt to do so. Every single day. Suicide is in the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada. This is a critical public health issue, a tragedy, and a topic we need to keep talking about. The Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council knows how important this is and they know how important talking is. An organization run by volunteers whose lives have been affected by suicide, they offer education and support to people from all walks of life. They are also involved in the World Suicide Prevention Day which takes place on September 10th in over 50 countries around the world. They encourage and welcome community members, professionals, and volunteers to participate. The theme of the event is Working Together

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to Prevent Suicide. This year’s event may be even more important than ever because COVID-19 has made the past many months very difficult in so many ways, including increased isolation and lack of face-to-face communication. There is power in coming together. Attending this event may help to make new, important connections and open an opportunity to share and recognize the impact of suicide on a personal level or with society as a whole. To honour those remembered on this important day, the Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council is donating what will be

their 5th memorial bench and tree. This year they are partnering with the Township of Adjala-Tosorontio. The unveiling will take place at the Municipal Centre on the 30th Sideroad, Alliston at 11:00 a.m. sharp. Please be prepared to follow COVID-19 protocols. For more information about World Suicide Prevention Day, visit the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention website at www.suicideprevention.ca/WSPD. To learn more about the Simcoe County Suicide Awareness Council, or for information on the bench and tree dedication, please call Lee at 705-689-1546; or Bernadette at 705-326-9941.

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In 1970, a Bayou Park developer turned over a double lot on the lake to the local residents under the condition that the property was managed by a non-profit home owners’ group. The Bayou Park Ratepayers Association was formed and, for the past 50 years, through this association, the residents have maintained this gem of a property, paying all expenses and looking after the park and beach. Bayou Park has grown to consist of more than 200 homes and as the community grows so does the importance of the beautiful park. For all these years it has guaranteed resident access to the lake, provided a beach front area for families, and served as a meeting place for the community, including a well-attended annual day/evening long BBQ and party, a major fundraiser for the park’s maintenance costs. “COVID-19 caused us to cancel this year’s major event. This means our only source of revenue will be resident fees. Now, more than ever, it is important that all Bayou Park residents pay their annual $25 fee,” said the new president of the association, Claire Lysnes. Payment can be made at www.bayoupark.org/payments or by money transfer to bayouparkassociation1@gmail.com. Claire has history in the community and understands the importance of the lakefront park. Her paternal grandparents, Bruce and Marg Lysnes were members of the Ratepayers Association and were well-known in the neighbourhood. She, along with the six other members of the association board are all eager to not only continue with tradition in years to come, but also begin new ones. This fall, on their new website, the association board will embark on a new project to capture the fascinating history of the community. They welcome all residents to share memories and send photos and stories to info@bayoupark.com. This initiative will serve to inform and entertain residents and help welcome new residents to Bayou Park. Residents are also encouraged to subscribe to the neighbourhood email list by visiting the website www.bayoupark.org.

Laura Joyce is blind. She is a registered massage therapist. There are so many things that could be written about Laura but what she wants people to know is that she has Norma Jean, a 6-year old black lab, Laura’s guide to the outside world. Without Norma Jean, Laura’s life would be much different. Sad for sure, because Norma Jean is a wonderful and loving companion. But Laura’s life would also be dangerous because Norma Jean guides Laura around obstacles, out of traffic and headed in the right direction. “The most important thing I’ve learned about dog guides is to put my complete trust ‘in their paws’,” said Laura. “Except for a very rare few seconds of distraction if there is a dog that might get too close, Norma Jean keeps me safe. My life is so enriched because of precious Norma Jean.” The Lions Foundation of Canada provides those in need with dog guides free of charge. They know how crucial a role dog guides play in the lives of those who are blind, deaf, those needing diabetic alerts, people

suffering debilitating seizures and those with autism. Money is raised to support this program through the annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides. This year, although you may choose to have a ‘real’ walk, the event is being held virtually. The event will be held on September 27th. There is no registration fee and every dollar raised goes directly to the cause. Go to www.walkfordogguides.com for more information, including a pledge form. You may also call 1-800-7683030. If you choose to have a ‘real’ walk, and if you go to Couchiching Beach Park, you might see Laura SMALL ENGINE REPAIR and Norma Jean. They’ve We specialize in ALL SMALL MOTORS: decided they’ll have a nice Snow Blowers • Chainsaws • Lawn/Rider Mowers long walk together while THE BEST PRICES ON CHAINSAW CHAIN SHARPENING & WELDING! raising money for a very good cause. Call 705-689-5837 5276 Dean Trail, Washago

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Foundational Family Services for Ontario Autism Program (OAP): On August 4, 2020 my colleague Todd Smith, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services and I proudly announced this program, an exciting step towards implementation of the new needs-based, sustainable Ontario Autism Program. Our government is providing families in the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) with services to support children with autism ongoing learning and development. Foundational family services such as family and peer mentoring, caregiver workshops and coaching will be tailored to the unique regional and cultural needs in our communities. Child Welfare System: It was also my privilege as Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues to announce the Government’s plan to transform Ontario’s child welfare system. This new strategy will focus on strengthening families and communities through prevention, early intervention and seeking more permanent homes for children and youth in care when they cannot stay in their own homes or communities. The strategy is built on five pillars that focus on communitybased prevention services to enhance family well-being; developing stable lifelong connections for children and youth; and improving accountability and sustainability. Anti-Racism Anti-Hate Grant Program This important program began at the end of July 2020. The Ontario government is investing $1.6 million over two years in the fight against racism and hate. The investment will support communitybased anti-racism initiatives, focusing on anti-Black racism, antiIndigenous racism, anti-Semitism, and Islamophobia. Beginning this fall, Ontario’s Anti-Racism Directorate (ARD) will collaborate with community groups to incorporate valuable insight about individual experiences and community needs into the design of the grant program. For details about the above programs, please visit Ontario.ca. Simcoe North residents: register at jilldunlopmpp.ca to receive the latest news. Orillia and Midland offices: Please note that at the time of this publication’s distribution, both of our constituency offices had opened, by appointment only. Wearing a mask is required. Orillia office: 705-326-3246. Midland office: 705-526-8671.

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Severn mayor’s update and message to all As you read on page 1 of this Villager issue, township staff are now carefully getting back to working in the administration office. Although there have been challenges, nothing has stopped the necessary work in every part of Severn including road work, park and general maintenance and, of course, all the work that needs to be done to keep all township infrastructure in good repair and the residents safe. Some important new initiatives: • An additional inspector has been hired, a qualified and experienced staff member who will be conducting inspections on septic systems on Severn’s rivers and lakes. Lake St. George is one area of focus. It has had blue green algae and it has been approximately 15 years since there’s been a complete inspection of septic systems on this lake. • The recreation master plan has been delayed because of COVID but is now back on the list of priorities. Staff, the recreation committee, and a professional

planner will work together to get this initiative back on track. Residents will be asked for input. • The installation of high speed internet has always been important but through this pandemic it has become the township’s #1 priority. It is a complex and very expensive initiative. Federal and provincial funding is required. Much work is being done to move forward as quickly as possible. As the administration offices open to residents, and although there will continue to be restrictions and COVID-19 protocols, everyone will begin to feel much more ‘normal’, or at least more comfortable with the ‘new normal’. On behalf of council, Mayor Burkett sends a message to residents and staff: It is incredible to think that our township is so large and we’ve had only 7 reported cases of COVID-19. We are a rural community and spend a lot of time outdoors but, I would guess, we are practicing safety protocols

when we are in crowds or shopping in stores. Residents of Severn must be commended for their role in stopping the spread of this terrible virus. And township staff should be congratulated, every single one of them, for the way they have kept our township moving forward and serving the residents while helping to keep us safe and healthy.

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Council and Committee meetings – listen or Zoom Some municipalities, such as Orillia which has a large council chamber, may soon have limited public attendance for council and committee meetings while some, such as Severn, will continue to hold meetings virtually. There simply isn’t enough space to accommodate Severn council, staff and guests safely in the relatively small chamber. However, Severn residents do have the opportunity to attend council and committee meetings either by telephone or by participating via a Zoom meeting. To attend in either of these ways, please contact the township clerk, Alison Gray at 705-325-2315 x232 or email agray@townshipofsevern.com at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Meeting agendas and minutes are available at townshipofsevern. com. Rebranding, next steps The township has been working on a rebranding exercise for the past several months. Thankfully, because of the ability of everyone involved to work virtually, this project has moved along, including the writing of the content for the new website. During this time, more than 500 community members participated in comprehensive online surveys and telephone interviews. This input has been vital to the final result of this branding exercise. In September, a brand concept will be presented to council. If council gives its approval, the project will move towards completion. The branding company will work with the township staff over the next several months and apply the approved concept to a new logo, the new website design and all other marketing and communication initiatives and documents. Employment opportunity – The township is pleased to announce it has a full-time employment opportunity available for an Accounts & Payroll Officer. This position will suit someone who has excellent organizational skills, the ability to manage multiple competing priorities, is able to maintain confidentiality, and has the education and experience as described in the job posting. Please visit the township website for complete details. Interested applicants are invited to submit their resume (PDF Format only) in confidence by September 8, 2020 to Michelle Prophet Healy, Manager of Human Resources, Township of Severn, 1024 Hurlwood Lane, P.O. Box 159, Orillia, Ontario, L3V 6J3; or by e-mail to hr@townshipofsevern.com.

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Local businesses – keeping us healthy By Ellen Cohen For the continued good health of our community, moving into Phase 3 during the pandemic was good news, especially for those who strive to keep physically active and those who need professional care for chronic pain and other ailments. Two local businesses, Green River Yoga Company and Junction Rehabilitation, are each in their own stages of opening and both offer vital services.

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Since opening a few years ago, Jenna Welch and her associates have been laser focused on providing top notch care in a friendly, relaxing environment. Their services include physiotherapy, registered massage therapy and chiropractic care. Located in a modern, spacious and accessible building just a few minutes outside of Washago, on Rama Rd., Junction Rehabilitation practitioners are all highly trained and experienced professionals. Each of them understands the importance of good care particularly because many of their clients suffer from chronic pain or discomfort from post-surgical issues, an accident or repetitive strain injuries. This business has done everything – and more – to be mindful of the safety of their clients and practitioners including redesigning their office and treatment space and creating a detailed cleaning checklist. Practitioners are well-protected and clients are required to wear a mask while in the premises. Visit junctionrehabilitation.com for information and to book an appointment.

Green River Yoga Company

When the pandemic forced this business to close, Melanie Rimkay of Green River Yoga Company quickly improvised so that she could offer her client base an option to in-person classes. Luckily, Melanie had the right equipment and experience to launch online yoga classes quickly. Grateful clients latched onto this opportunity immediately. Once the weather improved, Melanie added outdoor classes. Held at Washago Centennial Park, clients got back the social component of their weekly classes while being properly distanced from each other -- and outdoors. For a light-hearted class and a good laugh, Melanie is also offering goat yoga, a very popular outdoor activity. Regardless of age, size, shape, experience, agility or ability, there is a type of yoga for everyone, including chair yoga. Indoor classes at Melanie’s studio in Washago will begin as the weather turns too cold to be outside. Safety is of utmost concern. Eight participants at a time will be able to take classes, socially distanced in a sanitized studio. Visit greenriveryogacompany.com for updates on both indoor and outdoor classes.

We are open for business! Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm As the province opens for business, and in order to keep our customers and staff as safe as possible, we continue to follow all COVID-19 protocols that health experts advise. We ask you to participate and wear a mask when you enter our store.

INTRODUCING

Henry

Henry is one of the family members of our newest line of advanced vacuums by NaceCare • Recovers 20% more soil • Reduces energy consumption by over 40% • Reduces noise levels • Doubles average motor life • Canister, upright, wet vac

PREMIUM QUALITY & COMFORT

End unit townhome in premium condominium complex. The main floor features a bright, cheery kitchen, powder room, gleaming hardwood floors through the living and dining rooms, and walkout to deck. Upstairs offers a full bathroom with soaker tub plus 3 spacious bedrooms with hardwood floors. The finished basement has laundry room, third bathroom, and family room with cozy gas fireplace. Attached garage for extra comfort. Nicely situated overlooking a parkette with lovely gardens. Asking $355,000. MLS# 40011170.

Leah C. Cavanaugh Sales Representative

705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775 www.LeahCCavanaugh.ca leah.cavanaugh@century21.ca Not intended to solicit properties for sale or buyers under contract.

14 WANT HELP WITH YOUR TRANSPORTATION NEEDS?

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU! No-physical Contact • Sales • Delivery • Repair

If you want to know something about jewelry, talk to the man who makes it.

Custom Designed Jewelry

We cannot be open to walk-in traffic at this time. Simply call us or visit our website - and we’ll help you!

Over 40 Years Experience

51 Colborne St. E., Orillia 705–327–1616 www.richardsjewelrydesigns.com

Repairs While You Wait

Free Cleaning & Inspection

ELECTRIC BIKES • SCOOTERS ATVs • TOYS & MORE!

Muskoka’s premier shop for adventure and practical transportation. 2368 Hwy 11 (north bound) Gravenhurst, ON (705) 687-0300 www.Muskokagreenmachines.ca

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SAVE 10% ON PRINTING, SHIPPING, PACKAGING, & shredding!

Dr. Debra Shoniker

Cou nty R

Street

3-200 Memorial Ave., Orillia, ON L3V 5X6 store107@theupsstore.ca www.theupsstore.ca/107

Street

d 16

Muskoka

705.327.7831

8291 County Rd. 169, Washago • 705-689-6600

9 Rama Rd

earn aeroplan miles here

Washago Family Dentistry Hamilt on

We Print, Ship, and more!

New Patients Welcome!

• Exams • Cleanings • Sport Mouth Guards • Night Guards • Whitening • Mild Sedation (nitrous oxide/laughing gas)

• Bonding • Veneers • Crowns • Bridges • Implants • Dentures

Nature’s scavengers By Ron Reid

Part of Nature’s plan is that all creatures must eventually perish. What happens then? If you are a mouse that suddenly feels the beak of an owl or the teeth of a fox, in an instant you are swallowed whole, sustaining the life of that predator. But if you are a skunk or raccoon that fails to make it across a busy road, a clean-up crew is needed before you become a stinking mess. That’s where the turkey vultures come in. From spring until late fall, you have likely seen vultures wheeling lazily overhead, large birds and dark, easily identified by their habit of holding their wings on an angle above their bodies, in a characteristic V-shape. To birders, their name is sometimes shortened to “TV”; to old-timers, they might be known as “buzzards”. Whatever the label, these birds have a special role in the ecosystem: they are the scavengers, the clean-up crew that disposes of the carcasses of almost any animal. Turkey vultures are well-equipped for that role. As they circle above the landscape, their keen eyes and even keener sense of smell scan for meat in the early stages of decay. TVs don’t hunt in packs, but they do keep an eye on what others are doing. When they see one of their comrades dropping to ground, nearby vultures come over for a look, because a carcass is likely to feed more than one scavenger. If the dead animal is large, you might see a swirling column of vultures dropping down for a bite. On the ground, of course, the scene is grisly and chaotic, as vultures tear at the carcass in competition with others. TVs have no voice box, but they can grunt and hiss at each other. They might be elegant in flight, but I don’t think anyone has ever described vultures as pretty birds. Their heads are bare, with blood-red skin that keeps the gore away from their feathers; another adaptation of a perfect scavenger. At day’s end, vultures flock together in dead trees, where they can clean themselves and digest their meals. In the morning, you might see them on these bare branches with their wings spread side, drying off the dew or a morning shower. On a cloudy day, they may have to flap heavily to stay airborne,

ORILLIA FOOT CLINIC & WELLNESS CENTRE Your one stop spot for total foot health. 9 Diabetic Foot Care 9 Laser Therapy for Foot Pain 9 Custom-Made Orthotics 9 Laser Therapy for Fungal Toenails and Plantar Warts 9 Orthopedic Footwear Also Available: © Can Stock Photo / stevebyland

but when there is sunlight, they seek out columns of rising warm air called thermals to float them aloft with minimum effort. They use these same thermals as they migrate southwards, sometimes forming large flocks as they travel. Turkey vultures nest in our area, often using abandoned barns or other structures, as well as natural caves or dense thickets. Their young, always two, are clad in white down and would look almost cute if not for the smell of the nest site. If you come too close, the youngsters warn you off with hisses; but if you persist, their most effective defense is projectile vomiting, which is very effective indeed! Turkey vultures are best admired from a distance, but they do deserve our admiration as a species that carries out a valuable role every day. A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the co-founder and former executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy. He has written more than 30 magazine articles and co-authored three books. He lives in Washago with his wife, Janet Grand.

9 Osteopathy 9 Dental Hygiene 9 Massage Therapy 9 Medical Aesthetics 9 Psychotherapy

We are now fully operational. We ask all visitors bring a mask and use hand sanitizer prior to your appointment. Thanks for keeping us all safer.

333 Mary Street, Orillia 705.259.2838 www.ofcwc.com

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

SECURITY • MAINTENANCE • CLEAN UP SEPTIC DESIGN and INSTALL

CHAD COOKE

SERVICE TRENCHING FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING LOT CLEARING

705-826-2028

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

chad@system6stucco.com

ENTERPRISES

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

Call today for an appointment and a free estimate.

Randy Tinline 705-835-3877

Dan The Wood Man Tree Removal Junk Removal Demolitions FULLY INSURED

705-689-2223

(ABCD)

www.danthewoodman.ca

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

Beau Repairs Working for SENIORS

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

Free Estimates

705-330-5182

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

705-689-6676

(689-NORM)

“Proudly serving the local community.”

No Water?

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

Just Fix It 705-689-RICK (7425)

Over 27 Years Experience

Licensed by Ministry of Natural Resources

tracy maday

3435 Timberline Ave Severn L3V 0V8 quality cuts

705-514-0068 & shaves

BayouBarber.ca

Serving Gravenhurst to Barrie area

40 Years Experience

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

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

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

Stay safe & healthy!

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

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

SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS • www.homecomfortcare.ca

Gravenhurst 705-687-3890

Bracebridge 705-646-8846

Huntsville 705-788-3810

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

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

REFERENCES PROVIDED OVERNIGHT OR WEEKLY RATES

705-689-6246 • frogpond@xplornet.ca

TWIN MAPLES FARM

WEDDINGS • WAGON RIDES • SLEIGH RIDES Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Anita Matthews Sales Representative

Direct: 416.879.4203 anitahouse1@gmail.com AnitaHouse.ca

Thinking of Selling? Call for a FREE consultation!

705-689-0182

Christine Jameson: christine@twinmaplesfarm.ca

Giving during hard times In this, Phase 3 of the COVID-19 pandemic, many non-profit, charitable organizations have been able to get back to doing what they do best – serving their community, helping the most vulnerable, and giving to the most marginalized in our society. In this issue of The Villager, we are focusing on one of those organizations. They need your help.

Salvation Army Thrift Store It is likely most Severn residents have made at least one trip to the Salvation Army Thrift Store on Wyandotte Street in Orillia, either to drop off donations or to wander through the store and purchase some must-have treasures. “The Sally Ann”. Do we spend any time thinking about what positive impact this organization has on our community? What happens to the funds generated by the sale of donated goods? The positive impact the Salvation Army has on our country stems from their more than 200 nationally and locally operated thrift stores. Everything they sell has been donated and everything is sold at thrift prices. Local stores collect, process and sell the donations. This accomplishes three important goals: the offer of quality goods at reasonable prices for buyers; the goods are a massive source for community recycling of clothing, furniture and other articles; and

the money raised stays in the community to pay for many of the social programs the Salvation Army runs including children’s camps, food banks and shelters. Regarding the recycling impact, anything donated that is not of a sufficient quality to sell is sold to recycling firms and not sent to landfills. This, too, generates much needed funds for the organization. The Thrift Store also donates free items to individuals or families and other social service agencies, filling yet another need in their local community. Their food bank is also an important resource in this area. Increase in food bank demand since the beginning of COVID-19 has increased 28% across the country. Those in need may call

the Salvation Army. A food basket will be prepared and made ready for pick up. In these times of great difficulty including housing shortages and high unemployment, this organization has greater demands. Consider donating good, used items or sending them a cash donation. Your generosity will be appreciated by many, some of whom may be your neighbours.

RIVERSIDE UKULELE • Lessons for Beginners •

Have fun learning to strum along to dozens of songs!  Washago-Severn Bridge area   Ukulele rentals available  CALL OR TEXT 705-722-2121 EMAIL joanandhart@bell.net COVID-19 PROTOCOLS IN EFFECT

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

Complete and Partial Dentures Relines and Repairs Mouthguards Free Consultations

Serving Severn, Muskoka & Area for 25 years

705-687-5152 • 1-800-315-5229

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

REWARD

It's Worth A Conversation

Open 7 days a Week: Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. • Sunday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

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

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

Full line of

iced r p y l e v i t i t e comp groceries!

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

TO OUR CUSTOMERS: We exercise all possible precautions to keep our premises clean for your protection. Please join us in practicing all recommended COVID-19 precautions, including wearing a mask, sanitizing your hands as you enter our store, and social distancing. Other customers and our staff appreciate your cooperation. If you prefer to use our delivery service, please call us to make arrangements.

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