June 2013
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Uhthoff Trail offers something for everyone By Kim Goggins It took a brief 30-minute drive for Barb ClarePowell, her husband Evan Powell, their student Jessica Morin and three horses to make it to the Coldwater Parade from their Carlyon Line stable. But it was the slow and easy twohour trot home that they looked forward to most, making their way past wildlife and wild flowers, along the Uhthoff Trail. “We probably use the trail once a week,” says Clare-Powell. “It’s very important to have a trail like this because we can’t always ride on the roads.” Nor would they want to share the road with noisy, smelly and often badly driven motor vehicles. This peacefulness and tranquility that ClarePowell yearns for is a long way from how it all began on Dec. 22, 1990, when a local landowner threatened to shoot anyone who walked on the trail. Dr. Si Lowry chuckles when he remembers that fateful Council meeting of Orillia Township (as Severn Township was known at the time) when he first publicly vocalized the idea of turning the abandoned rail line that had been donated to the township in 1988, into a trail.
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Whether you walk, ride your bike, snowmobile or horse — like Jessica Morin is doing, here on ‘Zip’ — the trail provides 29 km of tranquility through the township.
At the time he was (and still is) a member of the Orillia Naturalist Club, and he got a frantic phone call just hours before the meeting from another club member, Dr. Nancy Ironside. The two had only just begun talking about using the abandoned rail line as a public trail, but the topic on the agenda at Council that night could disrupt their plan before it even got started. “The landowners wanted their land back, which was more in the township proper, and the developer (who was speaking at the Council meeting) wanted to buy the land at the edge of town to put in a (housing) development, and we wanted to see the Continued page 10
Business profile ��������������������������� 5 Mariposa Folk Festival ��������������� 8 News in Review �������������������������14 Recipe of the month ���������������20 Community Happenings �������26
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Parks Canada changes its course – again
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By Kim Goggins It’s been an up and down, stormy journey between boaters in this area and Parks Canada. And although the trip has not stopped, it has calmed, somewhat, with the recent announcement that recreational lockage fees along the Trent-Severn Waterway will remain frozen for three additional years at 2008 levels. Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton applauds the decision, noting the extension to 2017 (fees have already been frozen until 2014) will allow other approaches to the revenue shortfall to be put in place. In previous interviews with The Villager, Stanton talked about licensing all motorized boats that use the waterway — even those that don’t use the locks — to help shoulder the costs associated with the canal system. These extra three years will allow the government to look into this idea more closely and possibly put it into action. “... We do think there is a better way to come at this from a revenue standpoint, and particularly a more stabilized financial scenario, for the Trent-Severn,” he said. “The problem is we can’t put that in place right away. There may have to be some legislative changes. We’ll probably have to get some kind of understanding with the Province of Ontario. That work lies ahead for us. There are several bridges to cross to get us there so we’re simply saying we’re going to continue to work with stakeholders and community interests to try and find a better way.” While the freeze in fees is good for boaters and businesses that rely on the Trent-Severn, the uncertainty and multiple changes in position irk local boaters who believe the government agency should know what it’s doing. This is the third time Parks Canada has
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The cost to use locks along the Trent-Severn Waterway will remain frozen until 2017.
announced changes since January — each one, after the initial proposal, seemed to be in reaction to the angry response by boaters. At the beginning of 2013, Parks Canada set out a plan to take away the payment system as it is now — along with one-day, six-day and season passes — and introduce tickets. The public was asked to provide feedback by Feb. 18, 2013. However, due to the negative feedback they received even before the consultation process came to an end, the government department withdrew its initial ticket structure suggestion and posted a proposal for a direct cost per lock system that will continue providing season passes, as well as one and six-day passes, although costs increased more than 40 percent. While this was a slightly better option, the suggested fee hikes did not go over well, with boaters saying it was still too much. A couple of months later, Parks Canada announced it has changed course again. During the next several years, Stanton believes there is time to put another plan in
play to help offset the costs associated with operating the system. Although there may be fee increases, he is hopeful it won’t be of the same magnitude that Parks Canada proposed earlier this year. “There may be some changes in fees but what we’re looking to do is not continue to put the revenue burden squarely on the shoulders of boaters that use the locks,” said Stanton. “It makes far more sense to try to spread that out over the larger, far and away, the majority of boaters that use the system but never use a lock ... We realize it’s too early to talk details on that but this is what we want to continue to talk to people about and see if we can reach some kind of a revenue model that is going to put the canal on a more stable footing year in and year out.” The new change does not affect increases to mooring at the locks. The proposed mooring fee changes will be implemented after all approval processes are complete, sometime in 2013. Current fees will remain in effect until that time.
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Kim Goggins Publisher, Editor-in-Chief kim@severnnewsonline.com Ellen Cohen Publisher, General Manager thevillagerpress@rogers.com 705-689-5398 Register for the most current Severn Township news – delivered daily
www.severnnewsonline.com
The Villager, a Severn Township community news magazine, is an independently owned and operated publication delivered to households and business by the middle of each month. Our delivery area includes: north from the City of Orillia/Severn Township border to Severn Bridge and parts of western Ramara Township. The Villager is also available at Orillia Square Mall and in select retail shops and restaurants along the Highway 11 corridor between Severn Bridge and the top of Orillia. 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 the 22nd of the month for the following month’s publication. Advertising inquiries, email Ellen thevillagerpress@rogers.com
The Villager P.O. Box 5 Washago, ON L0K 2B0
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A word in edgewise The more things change, the more they remain the same — that old adage is certainly true for Parks Canada and their bungling of the changes to the Trent-Severn Waterway fees. Or maybe it’s the saying, two steps forward, three steps back that is more appropriate. Whatever the maxim, we here at The Villager and its sister website Severn News want to relay the latest news to boaters whose heads must be swimming by now with all of the changes. They must certainly be happy that more time is being put into thinking about how to fund the TSW, instead of a knee-jerk reaction to bring in more revenue. As a journalist for more than 20 years, I do have to laugh at the foibles of the government, no matter what stripe they are. We are seeing it with municipal politics in Toronto and the problem their mayor is facing; we’ve witnessed it with the Great Garbage Debacle of Claire Island here in Simcoe County; and we will continue to see it at the provincial and federal levels. Oh, they can point fingers at each other, but remember, when you point a finger, three fingers point back at you (or so my husband keeps telling me). I’m happy to say that on top of keeping you up to date on the most recent changes to fees at the Trent-Severn Waterway, we have a host of great stories to tell you about in this issue. Most are ‘feel good’ stories, some are informative and others just plain fun. We hope you enjoy it.
Take good care, Kim Letters to the editor are welcome and may be emailed to kim@severnnewsonline.com. Letters may be edited for length
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Severn family celebrates 30 years in business By Kim Goggins Some may think it’s been a stressful few months for Severn Township resident Bill Farewell, owner of Apple Autoglass in Orillia. After all, the company he has nurtured and built over the last 30 years has taken on a new look and name, changing from Apple to Speedy Glass. But in the laidback style that’s typical to Farewell, he is taking it all in stride. “You know what? It’s been awesome, really awesome,” he says. “The one thing that’s been a little alarming is that a lot of people think that I sold out. We ran into some people we know and they said, ‘Where are you going?’ and I said, ‘We’re still there.’ They said they weren’t going to come in. I’ve heard a ton of that, which is kind of scary, but the support is nice, really nice to hear. We just have to educate everybody. Nothing’s changed. “
Apple Autoglass changed over to Speedy Glass recently, but the same people are still there.
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Farewell chuckles at the thought of going away. Not a chance. The business has been in his blood since he was 17 and his dad, John ‘Humpty’ Farewell, approached him about opening their own Apple Autoglass franchise in 1983. John had been in the industry since 1958, when he started with Speedy Autoglass. “So we started it together,” recalls Farewell. “We renovated the shop in a building on Colborne Street at Matchedash.” That was 30 years ago and a lot has changed since he was a high school student working after school, weekends and holidays. They steadily grew the business and moved it to its current location on West Street South in 1994, and sadly, Farewell’s dad passed away almost six years ago. But the philosophy he believed in is still the cornerstone of customer service at the shop. “It was my dad who said, ‘we’re not really selling anything different than anybody else sells that’s in our business, but service is what is going to make a difference’,” says Farewell. “Value-added service is what makes it a little better.” It’s still a family business with Farewell’s wife, Silvana, coming on board about seven years ago as office manager. “Sil is the best thing that ever happened to the business. She’s talented at what she does. She’s really good,” notes Farewell. “We’ve never had the business perform as well as when she’s been there. It’s been great to have her.” So why Speedy Glass and why now? The reason has roots back about two decades when the company that owned Speedy
Bill Farewell has been a Severn Township resident for most of his life.
purchased the Apple Autoglass franchise. The two companies were related for many years and then about seven years ago, a Belgium company called Belron purchased the company. As part of their international strategy, they are slowly branding all of their auto glass franchises in Canada as Speedy Glass. Still Farewell didn’t jump on board right away. “I just kind of sat back and watched them. I just wanted to see it all take place, because I wasn’t too eager to do it but if I was going to do it, I wanted to do it with the least amount of resistance. I wanted a smooth transition compared to (everyone else). It didn’t work out that way but that was my idea,” he laughs. Now as Speedy Glass, they have access to the latest technology and tools, which allows them to provide even better service than before. True to form, Farewell is most interested in the benefit to his customers. “It’s a much bigger organization, so we have better coverage across Canada. If someone has a problem with something we’ve done and they’re in Vancouver or Medicine Hat, it doesn’t matter. It’s nice to know that if there’s trouble, they’ll be taken care of. That’s what it’s all about.”
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Fundraiser for local family By Kim Goggins It was another busy afternoon for the McDonald family. Eight-year-old Kailem got off the school bus and walked home alone for the first time; his dad Scott arrived home with older sister Kylie about 10 minutes later in a rush to get them off to activities. Mom Kathy, was with his older brother Graydon, taking him to his lacrosse practice, until they realized they forgot his equipment at home. So off they went to quickly pick up the lacrosse equipment. And that’s when everything slowed down for Kathy. As she and Graydon drove up County Road 169 towards their home, she could see fire trucks in her driveway, cars parked along the side of the road, and smoke — lots of smoke. Less than an hour earlier, her husband and two of their children were in that house and here it was up in flames. “It was like, ‘Oh my God’,” recalls Kathy. The fire ripped through the basement of the home on April 26, destroying almost everything in its path and causing the upper level to crash below. The family lost everything, including their beloved cat. Some things have been recovered — Scott’s wedding ring, their marriage certificate, passports, and books of the three children’s baby pictures. Small items that make a big difference. It’s been a very difficult time for them, but the support from their friends, family and community has been incredible, says Kathy. “The outpouring of support has been very overwhelming,” she says. “It’s incredible the stuff we’ve received from people we don’t
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even know. I don’t know if it’s like that in every community but I don’t think it is.” A Family Fun Day and BBQ is taking place at the Ramona Hall on Sunday, June 23, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to bring local families, neighbours and friends together to have fun, raise money and provide emotional support for a family that has gone through so much. Scott and Kathy have always been the ones to step up and help others, says family friend Corrina Barnes, and over the years have volunteered at the Ramona Hall and with various sports initiatives. The family is renting a home, temporarily, but will have to leave it for six weeks, at the beginning of July, because it was already rented out to another family during that period. They plan to use their trailer to camp for some of that time, but the fire destroyed all of their camping equipment that was in the basement of the house. “It’s just one more thing we have to think about during this time,” says Kathy.
A fire ripped through the McDonald’s home on April 26.
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Art on the Severn always a unique showcase Choosing an artist to feature at this year’s Art on the Severn show and sale, was a “nobrainer” for the organizing committee. The art of local resident Brian Tosh was particularly suited for the spotlight for two reasons. First, his streetscape of the east side of Washago’s main blocks hangs over the doorway to the exhibit hall in the Washago Community Centre. It was a gift from the family of Joan and Dick Berndt, staunch supporters of the arts in Washago. Second, Brian aptly represents the growing arts community, not only by living in the area, but also by participating in the wider arts scene at Peter Street Fine Art, (he’s a founding member), on Orillia’s “Arts Scene” (Roger’s T.V.), and in the Streets Alive banner project. His streetscape of the west side of Muskoka Street is eagerly awaited. Brian’s work, along with that of Maureen Haines of Log Cabin Glass Studio, and Kathy Nicholson, landscape artist, will comprise the prize list for the raffle, held to benefit Art on the Severn, now in its sixth season. Tickets can be purchased from local businesses, committee members, and at the door.
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This year’s show will include the work of a variety of visual artists and artisans. As in the past, much of it illustrates the particular beauty of the “Land Between” (the area of Ontario that transitions the Boreal Forest and the Saint Laurence Lowlands). Art on the Severn also showcases work resulting from Community Centre programs, led by art teacher Doug Cooper. His classes in acrylic landscape painting, and the Art Club for Grade 7 and 8 students demonstrate that the Washago Community Centre performs a vital function in the encouragement of the arts in the area. This year, an on-site BBQ lunch will be available, provided by the First Washago Scout Group. Art on the Severn is a unique event, especially well-placed to showcase locallybased artists and artisans, along with a few from further afield. Its venue, the Washago Community Centre, becomes more of a hub for art-related activities, every year. Painting classes, student art club, and the newlyformed adult art club, all provide Art on the Severn an opportunity to present and
celebrate their outcomes to the public. Art on the Severn is a juried art show and sale, held at the Washago Community Centre, 4361 Hamilton Street, on Saturday July 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Sunday, July 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation, and proceeds go to benefit art programs at the centre. For more information, contact the centre at 705-689-6424.
This beautiful stained glass creation by Maureen Haines of Log Cabin Glass Studio in Washago is one of the prizes for the Art on the Severn raffle.
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Stars will shine at Mariposa Folk Festival By Kim Goggins Some people will say that Pam Carter was hallucinating, or wishful thinking, or maybe even fibbing, but the Mariposa Folk Festival Foundation president and festival coordinator swears her story is true. It’s the stuff urban legends are made of and it entails a stormy, rainy night and Bob Dylan. She giggles a bit when she begins her story. “Nobody believes me but I swear it’s true,” she says. It was July 8, 2007 and Gordon Lightfoot
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was the headliner for the festival. As he crooned crowd favourites that Sunday night, the masses sang along, despite heavy rain, thunder and lightning. “Bob Dylan was playing at the casino (that night) and there were all sorts of rumours that he was going to come to the festival. Of course, Gordon kept playing and it’s an amazing show that he’s putting on with the rain and the lightning coming down,” recalls Carter, who was the performer shuttle driver at the time. Towards the end of the show, Carter went out to the shuttle bus and saw a white stretch limousine pull onto the site near the curling club, but at that point, the crowd was leaving in droves because of the inclement weather. Then, as quickly as it appeared, the limo drove away. “Everybody thinks
I’m crazy but that’s my story of Bob Dylan coming to the Mariposa Folk Festival,” she laughs. “Who else could it be?” The point is, you just never know who you’re going to see at the popular folk festival that had its beginnings in Orillia in 1961, was told to leave in 1964, and returned again in 2000 where it has stayed. This year, artistic director Mike Hill, has lined up big names for each night of the July 5–7 festival with Kathleen Edwards rocking the Main Stage on Friday night, Randy Bachman with The Sadies impressing the crowd Saturday night, and Arlo Guthrie providing a fitting finale on Sunday night. Festival favourites Murray McLauchlan and Jory Nash will also make a return, to the delight of dedicated fans. With 47 acts booked to perform, there is sure to be something for everyone. As a music fan, herself, Carter always discovers a new favourite artist each year. “What really appeals to me about the festival is hearing an artist who is unknown to me and just leaving with that ‘wow’ factor, having Continued page 9
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9 Stars will shine
Continued from page 8 a new repertoire of music from someone I’ve never heard before,” she says. Hill is sure that two newcomers to the festival, the Kruger Brothers and Rose Cousins, will fit that bill for many people. “I think most people won’t know Rose, even though she’s won many awards and has been nominated for Junos ... and they’ll end up thinking, ‘wow, she’s great’,” he says. “Another group called the Kruger Brothers are kind of a bluegrass band and ‘Doc’ Watson called them the best bluegrass band in the world. They’re coming and I think people will be really surprised with them and really love them.” Another popular component of the weekend is the musical workshops, where performers who have never played together perform in mini workshops throughout the site. The ability for the audience to witness the beginning of friendships and hear the artists’ collaborations in intimate settings is a highlight of the weekend for many. But it takes more than talented performers and the gorgeous Tudhope Park setting to make a successful Mariposa Folk Festival
weekend. More than 600 volunteers provide assistance in areas of fundraising, site set up/tear down, ‘greening’, coordination of areas, servers, and parking. Along with the music, festival goers can experience the Artisans Village, Folkplay for Kids, interactive workshops, a jamming stage, on-site camping, two beer tents and 18 food vendors — all in an environmentallyconscious way. “For the past four years, we have been water bottle free,” reports Carter. “I think we’ve eliminated over 40,000 water bottles from the festival site (through the use of The Water Store’s Hydration Station).” All cutlery, plates and cups are also recyclable or compostable, too, she adds. “Before we started the greening initiative, it was something like four metric tonnes and we’re down to 0.59 metric tonnes (of waste).” While the festival is good to the environment, it also helps the economic health of the community. “We spend approximately $550,000 of our festival budget locally. The spinoff is probably a couple of million dollars when you factor in that about 60 percent of more than 25,000 patrons are from out of the
Children have just as much fun as adults at Mariposa Folk Festival.
area,” says Carter. This year, the festival is partnering with the Downtown Orillia Management Board (DOMB) to offer a Mariposa stage on Peter Street, Friday and Saturday afternoon, so people who can’t make it to the festival can enjoy free concerts. A free shuttle between the festival site and downtown Orillia will also encourage those at the festival to experience the city’s shops and restaurants.
BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY AND SAVE!
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10 Uhthoff Trail
Continued from page 1 land preserved and extended. There wasn’t a Trans Canada Trail, then,” recalls Lowry. The land in question was the abandoned Canadian Pacific (CP) railway line from Wilson Point Road to Holcroft Road, an area of wetlands, but because it had railway access, the developer didn’t have to get Environmental Protection approval, at the time, to put in a housing development. “So, I had to get up in front of this angry group of people and say, ‘Well I’ve read about rail trails in places like Britain and Europe where abandoned railways have been turned into fabulous trails ... and we thought this land would be priceless for that kind of development in the township’,” says Lowry, crediting Township of Orillia Reeve Jack Fountain and the Council of the day for their forward thinking. They were responsible for leasing the land to the Naturalist Club in 1991 to be managed as a recreational trail. The man who threatened to shoot anyone who used the trail was so angry he actually brought a gun to the meeting. But, Lowry points out that he soon became the trail’s biggest advocate. “The (landowners) were just so angry at CP
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for abandoning the railway and they were scared of vandalism in their backyards,” he explains. “He turned into one of our greatest supporters because we immediately put up fences and gates and cleaned up the trail. He saw that we were really a landowner’s best friend.” And with good reason. According to Orillia OPP Cons. Shannon Petryshyn, who is an avid user of the trail, herself, there are very few calls for mischief or disturbance on the trail. While there have been some issues of vandalism and ATVs causing problems over the past two decades (motorized vehicles are not allowed, except snowmobiles), it’s actually self-policed quite well. There aren’t even any trash cans along the path and yet loose garbage isn’t an issue. In 1998, the rest of the land for the trail to Coldwater was acquired from CP, making it the first official rail trail in Canada. It was financed by Severn Township, the Orillia Naturalist Club and the Orillia District Snowmobile Association. In 2005, management of the trail was transferred from the Orillia Naturalist Club to Severn Township and the Uhthoff Trail Committee was soon formed. However, it took until just recently for the final six kilometres of abandoned Canadian
National (CN) rail line between Coldwater and Waubaushene to be transferred to Severn Township, making the trail 29 km through the municipality. That part of the trail, alone, cost $320,000, says Director of Public Works Clayton Cameron. A grant of $100,000 from the Trans Canada Trail and $60,000 from the County of Simcoe helped foot half the bill. “It was so overgrown you couldn’t even walk through it,” says Cameron, explaining why it cost so much. “We had to completely rebuild the trail and it took between the summer of 2010 and the fall of 2012 to do it.” Over the years, the Orillia Naturalist Club, Severn Township’s former Uhthoff Trail Committee, the Orillia & District Snowmobile Club, and local quarries and businesses have worked diligently to raise money, fix bridges and sections of the trail, maintain nearby wetlands, and continue with the ongoing maintenance. It just couldn’t be done without the dedication of volunteers. “It’s a real tribute to the vision to something new like that,” says Lowry. “Everyone had the courage and energy to make it happen and then you have to look at the continuity over 20 years to complete something like this. It just doesn’t happen any other way.”
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Ron Reid, a natural heritage consultant, is 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.
We Can Help!
N
Pick up your change at the grocery store, and you are apt to have a loonie or two in the mix. To me, that affectionate nickname for our dollar coin always sounds vaguely disrespectful, a mocking echo of someone not quite right in the head. Especially disrespectful since the bird depicted on the coin, the Common Loon, has to rank as one of the most regal summer residents in cottage country. Maybe it’s the name that is the problem. In Britain and Europe, the same species is known as “The Great Northern Diver” — a name with some majesty about it, a title that demands respect. Admittedly, it wouldn’t work so nicely as the name for coinage (would we call them “divers”? And what would we do about toonies?). But the European name is a far better descriptor of the bird itself and its habits. Loons are fish-eaters, and their ability to dive into the depths of cold northern lakes is unsurpassed. They can stay submerged for several minutes, and descend to depths of at least 200 feet. If there is a boat nearby, they are adept at surfacing only their head, sneaking a fresh charge of air, and diving again unseen. Loons are built for the water – their powerful short legs are set well back to provide maximum thrust; their well-oiled feathers create a sleek profile; and their eyes track their fishy prey as well in water as in the air. But a loon out of water is an awkward creature indeed. They come on land only to nest, and even then only on to a low platform of mud and weeds created for that purpose on an island or in a quiet bay. A loon on land might stand for a few moments like a penguin, but those short legs are not quite right for land-based locomotion. That’s why their nests are always located on the edge of the shore, where a single strong thrust can return the bird to water. Few birds are so territorial near their nests. If a wandering young male intrudes, he is warned off first by a rising chorus of calls from the home pair, and then by physical combat if necessary. This combat begins
gently enough with threat postures and splashing, but can quickly escalate into stabs with spear-like beaks and attempts to hold the opponent’s head under water. Unfortunately, these days the real danger to loon survival comes in the form of a careless boat wake that washes over the low nest, or disturbance by curious humans causing unprotected eggs to be vulnerable to predators. Too often, loons can also become tangled in abandoned fishing line, or feed on scraps of plastic that clog their guts. Despite these hazards, loons still frequent most of the larger lakes around Washago, and even some smaller waters such as the Green River. Continuing to share our lakes with loons requires only a little care and consideration on our part to protect their nesting habitats and make sure our plastic garbage stays out of the waterways. That small effort brings big rewards. For what would cottage country be without the haunting call of the loon echoing across moonlit waters? Or the chance to drift close to a summer loon carrying its young on its back? Or even the opportunity to explain to your kids that those loonie dollars are based on real live birds that symbolize our Canadian connection with the wilderness.
Squirrels in your Bird Seed?
Th
By Ron Reid
11
Co mp
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Liberals not acting in best interest of Ontarians By Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop
The NDP recently propped up the McGuintyWynne Liberals and voted in favour of incompetence, scandals and wasted taxpayers’ dollars. A Liberal-NDP Coalition is alive and well. Premier Wynne and Andrea Horwath are only focused on protecting their Party and will do whatever it takes to cling to their power. The arrogance of the NDP and Liberals to waste hundreds of millions of dollars to buy an election is one thing, but to be so arrogant that you would hide from accountability is another. The NDP’s decision is to prop up a government that wasted $600 million to cancel the Mississauga and Oakville gas plants and then lie to Ontarians about it. Ontarians deserve a vote in the Legislature about whether they have confidence in the Liberal government. Unfortunately, the NDP and Liberals teamed up to vote against this effort to give the people of Ontario a voice.
I expected the Liberals to put their party before the people of Ontario. But I never thought that the NDP would throw away their integrity and back this corrupt, morallybankrupt McGuinty-Wynne government. The sooner we change the direction of the province the better. That half a billion dollars wasted on gas plants and a billion dollars in new spending initiatives to buy the NDP’s support will not put us on the right track. I can understand why leaving the Liberals in power is in the best interest of the NDP. But leaving the Liberals in power is not in the best interest of Ontario.
Got a news tip? Email details to Kim@severnnewsonline. com or call 705-689-5398. Photos of your group’s events are also welcome.
Special Events On Monday, July 1, our country celebrates its 146th Birthday. It is my hope that no matter where you are, you will take part in a Canada Day celebration. My wife Jane and I look forward to participating in Canada Day events around the region. I would also like to take this opportunity to remind you to circle July 13 on your calendar. That will be the day of my
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Annual Constituency Barbecue at the Coldwater Curling Club. The event runs from 3 until 6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. I hope to see you there!
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LIVE THEATRE
at the ORILLIA OPERA HOUSE
NOW PLAYING June 11 - July 12 To purchase tickets for “The 39 Steps” or any shows this season call our Box Office (705)326-8011 or 1-888-ORILLIA
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Washago Rotary raises funds for refugee camp
Policing costs to increase
OPP uniformed officers and civilians will be some of the highest paid in the province, The Rotary Club of Washago & Area once salaries are increased in 2014. Centennial presented David and Catherine Downham, the founders of Project Umbrella Burma, with a cheque in the amount of $1,090.00, raised from the club’s annual Cash Calendar sales in December.
Conservancy endowment reaches milestone
Washago finds its way
The Couchiching Conservancy has hit the $1-million mark in pledges for an endowment fund launched only one year Three wayfinding signs have been installed in Washago to help drive traffic ago. into the village.
Province pledges money for Ramara flood victims
Rollover stops traffic on Highway 11 during long weekend commute
The Ontario Government has announced funding to help Ramara recover from spring floods, but it’s still not known how On Friday May 17, police from the Orillia much money the township will receive or OPP responded to a two-vehicle collision when the money will come. in Severn Township. The location was Highway 11 in the northbound lanes, near On May 2, Severn Council voted in favour Shoreview Drive. of supporting the concept of a public transit system that does not have an impact on taxpayers and of Metis Transit conducting a survey in the township to see if there is a need.
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Severn resident arrested in drug sweep
Special awards handed out Special Olympics celebrated all of its athletes’ accomplishments in the Orillia area, at its annual banquet held at Bayside Restaurant.
A 50-year-old Severn Township man was arrested on May 3 and is facing multiple charges, including Possession for the Purpose Schedule 1 Cocaine and Possession Schedule 1 Cocaine.
Severn residents arrested for drugs
Dunlop and Stanton talk to Washago residents
Two Severn Township residents were arrested May 19, after police officers stopped a vehicle on Highway 11 near Orillia.
Simcoe North MP Bruce Stanton and MPP Garfield Dunlop hosted about a dozen people at a meet and greet at the Washago Community Centre on May 11.
Bear on Green River Drive near Washago
Council approves subdivision agreement
It’s that time of year again; time to get the Severn Council approved a subdivision bird feeders in and lock up your garbage. agreement for the Rimkey plan of subdivision. The bears are back. The plan is for 40 rural estate residential lots, north of the Ardtrea settlement area.
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Uhthoff Trail supporters celebrate After a couple of decades, the Uhthoff Trail through Severn Township is finally complete. An Opening Ceremony and celebration was held in Coldwater, on Sturgeon Bay Road, at the head of the trail between Coldwater and Waubaushene (Tay Township) on Friday, May 10.
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It’s the weather for wetsuits By Kim Goggins You know those days. Those early summer afternoons where the sun glints off the water and the dock is warm under foot, those times when you long to jump into the kayak or onto the paddle board. Oh, those are the days, alright. Everything seems perfect to kick off a season of water adventures ... but the water is still freezing. These are the times when Paul Zimmer of Algonquin Outfitters brings out his cold water suit, a 6 mm thick neoprene wetsuit that will keep him warm for hours while installing water trampoulines for his customers, a couple of weeks before most people are even contemplating their first dip. While a wetsuit does not keep you dry, the porous material allows water to get into the suit and then your body heats the thin layer of water caught between the suit and your body. “That’s what keeps you warm, your body heat,” notes Zimmer, adding that the thicker the neoprene, the longer you stay warm. But due to the inflexibility of a 6 mm cold water suit, most people do not wear them
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throughout the summer, unless they are surfing in extremely cold water or scuba diving below 15 feet. Most people choose 2 mm neoprene suits to retain the heat. For swimming, the 2 mm thick neoprene wetsuits with 1 mm thickness of neoprene under the arms and around the legs are useful to allow better range of motion. Zimmer says the shorty wetsuit, which comes just above the knees and elbows, is the most popular because it’s less expensive than the longer suits that cover legs and arms, but still maintains heat in the body’s core. They are also great for kids who don’t always recognize that they’re cold when they’re having fun. People who choose the longer 2 mm wetsuits often want the full UV protection or don’t want things in the water to touch their skin, says Zimmer, adding that a triathlete or marathon swimmer would most likely choose a ‘Farmer suit’, which is a sleeveless suit that goes down to the ankles, to allow full range of movement around the shoulders, while streamlining the body. Wakeboarding and waterskiing also brings out bright colours in the 1 mm shirts that
provide wind protection. “What they do is allow you to keep the wind off you and they do retain some heat,” explains Zimmer. “So they keep you a little bit warm but because they are only 1 mm thick, they are less restrictive in your range of motion. So, if you’re a wakeboarder doing tricks or going hard, you won’t have anything restricting your body.” Typically, this style involves a neoprene t-shirt and shorts and provides a lot of ‘cool’ factor due to its popularity. Those avid skiers and boarders, like Zimmer, who have to or like to get in the water early in the season often use a full ‘steamer suit’, which provides 3 mm of neoprene in the body but 2 mm in the articulation areas where movement is needed. “Generally it’s the May long weekend when the weekend warriors come out and decide that they’re ready to jump in the water. Those are the guys that are wearing full suits,” he says. “It allows us to stay out there longer and stay warm.” Kayakers and canoeists also seek the Continued page 17
13-06-05 3:30 PM
17 It’s the weather for wetsuits
Continued from page 16 protection of a suit to keep them dry and warm. ‘Dry tops’ feature neoprene gussets at the neck, wrists and waist and offer a breathable material that warms them but prevents them from sweating too much. It’s quite affordable to keep warm while having fun. A child’s shorty wetsuit starts at about $29 and can go up to $119, depending on the thickness and brand name. If sun protection is required, Zimmer suggests quick-drying sun shirts made of polyester that provide great UV protection and allows the child to be seen at the beach. “I have a five-year-old daughter and she’s not allowed to be exposed to the sun because she’s so young. She wears a sun shirt to keep the sun off,” he explains. “It allows kids to play out in the water, worry-free, without getting a burn and you don’t have to keep reapplying the sunscreen. A lot of parents buy bright coloured ones because it allows the kids to be very visible in the water.” The average adult can expect to pay $59 to $179 for a 2 mm all occasion suit, but a little higher for a steamer suit, which can range in price from $179 to $400 or more.
Sun shirts are quick-drying and a great way to keep the sun off little ones.
Anything with fourto-six millimetre of thickness can cost anywhere from $250 to thousands of dollars. “A wetsuit tends to be one of the longest lasing things you can buy,” says Zimmer. “For an adult, a wet suit can last a lifetime if taken care of properly.”
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Report Trumpeter Swan Sightings By Laurel Ironside The summer is upon us and the Trumpeter Swans are returning to their summer homes. The Ontario Trumpeter Swan Restoration program is asking the public to assist us by reporting any Trumpeter Swan sightings. Trumpeter Swans are easily identified by their large size, black beak, legs and feet. They are North America’s largest native waterfowl. These birds are part of a 30+ year program to restore our Trumpeter Swan population that was extirpated from Ontario and much of North America by the late 1800’s. The disappearance of these birds was primarily due to overharvesting by man. Throughout the winter months, the Trumpeters stage together in various locations throughout Ontario in larger flocks where they engage in social behaviour like finding a mate. During the winter months we band and tag as many birds as possible so we are able to estimate population numbers and track the movement of these birds throughout the year. The summer months provide one of the
greatest challenges for our program. During the summer months these birds will disperse and move into their summer ranges and are often difficult to locate. Mated pairs will return to nesting locations from prior years or seek out a new location. Immature birds may remain in small isolated groups or become solitary birds. Trumpeters choose a wide range of summer locations from larger bodies of water such as Georgian Bay, to small lakes, ponds, and many wetland areas. Outdoor enthusiasts may be hiking, canoeing, kayaking, or boating in these remote locations and spot Trumpeters. Please record and report all swans with or without a yellow wing tag. Important information to include is; the date, location details, GPS coordinates if possible, the wing tag ID number or possibly the leg band ID number on birds with no identifying wing tags. It is important that the ID numbers are accurate. We often use cameras, spotting scopes and binoculars to identify birds. Nesting locations are especially of interest. They are very important to our research to help us understand where and why these
birds are nesting in these locations. Please remember to respect all nesting locations. Trumpeters are traditionally docile birds but can be aggressive if they feel their nest site or young cygnets are threatened. It is beneficial to the program to receive sighting reports all year round. All sighting information is recorded and provides us with fundamental information aiding in the success of the program. Please email sightings to: trumpeterswan@ live.com or on our Facebook group page “Ontario Trumpeter Swans”
Swan restoration program is asking for the public’s assistance.
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13-06-05 3:30 PM
Washago Rotary raises money for community
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By Candy Potter
“We raise money then we give it away,” said our president after a recent successful fundraiser and some decisions about donations. As a member of Rotary I’m part of a local, national and international organization that enables me to make a much more impactful difference in the world than I could on my own. Greater than the sum of our parts, our members complement each other in skills, knowledge, perspective and connections, so each person’s contributions are exponentially more effective. Here are just some of the ways that our small but mighty Washago club has been able to make a difference in the past year. Locally: our sponsorship of the Washago T-ball league provided them with home and away sweaters and caps for all the kids; we provided a new dictionary and
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thesaurus to all Grade 2 students in our four local schools; we provided $1,000 technical scholarships for two post secondary students in apprenticeship programs; sponsorship of the Ramara Youth Soccer travel team; as well as financial and food donations to The Sharing Place Food Bank and the Lighthouse men’s shelter. Internationally: the money we raised helped to have a well dug in Tanzania that will service two villages of 1,200 people; we gave $1,000 to Project Umbrella, a refugee camp on the Burmese border; we purchased a shelter box for disaster relief; bought 15 bicycles for children in Thailand so that they could reach school, purchased mosquito netting for children in Africa and supported the eradication of polio through immunization efforts.
Washago T-Ball 2012 Team B Rotary International
If you’re interested in finding out more about how we are changing the world, join us for a breakfast meeting on any given Wednesday, from 7:15 to 8:30 a.m., at the Washago Community Centre or contact me at 705-689-4039 or by e-mail at info@ candypotter.com.
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Cedar planked Milford Bay trout with summer savory and roasted lemon butter and fiddleheads Cedar planked trout
Lemon butter
• 2 cedar planks that have been submerged in water for 30 minutes • 2 fillets of Milford Bay trout • 1 red onion sliced • 1 tbsp cracked black pepper (red and green) would be nice as well (1 tbsp of all mixed) • 1 oz Collingwood Rye • 1 orange • 1/4 cup butter • sea salt to taste • 1 bunch summer savory Preparation: Turn grill on high Place soaked planks on high on BBQ for a couple of minutes until they start to smoke. Remove from BBQ In the meantime, combine onion, savory, pepper, rye and sea salt. Mix well. Place half of roughly chopped savory on smoking plank Place fish skin side down on plank and brush with half the liquid mixture Place three orange slices side by side on top of fish fillet Close lid and grill for 25 minutes Remove from BBQ Remove fillet and place on plate alongside vegetables and drizzle with remaining liquid mixture
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped • 2 sprigs fresh dill, chopped • 1/2 lb softened butter • 3 lemons halved Preparation: Sprinkle lemon halves with salt and place cut side down on grill on high heat for 5 minutes. Squeeze lemon juice and add to bowl with chopped garlic. Add softened butter, dill and black pepper. Mix together. (It will keep frozen if wrapped in a log shape with waxed paper for over a month for use on anything grilled.)
Fiddleheads • 1lb fiddleheads • salt • pepper • butter
Recipe provided by Chef Becky Lennerton of Black River Food Company.
Preparation: Clean thoroughly, rinse, drain, and clean again. Place butter in medium hot pan. Add fiddleheads. Season with salt and pepper. Cover for 2–3 minutes. Season to taste and serve
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Lion Geoffrey Martin Stead is sadly missed By Sandra Crawford, club president
A Lions memorial service was held on May 4, 2013 at the Washago & District Lions Hall for a great man and Lions Club member. Geoff Stead became a member of Washago Lions in the year 1999, sponsored by his good friend, Lion Roy Klementi. Later on, Geoff sponsored his wife Pat to become the first lady Lion of the Washago Lions Club. Geoff was Secretary for three years, which is one of the most demanding positions of a Lions Club. Geoff showed his musical talents at the hall, especially when the club had a piano. He worked hard at our Bingo functions and his pet phrase was, “Do you know what I hate more than BINGO? Nothing!” His love of animals was always evident; his dogs were even honourary Lions members as they traveled everywhere he did. Because of this, he strongly supported the Lions Foundation Guide Dog Program. Geoff was also an avid golfer and enjoyed the various Lions golf tournaments each
year. But most of all, Lion Geoff enjoyed being a Lion, and was proud of the Washago Lions club and being a member. He had a true sense of ownership and responsibility for the hall and he actively participated in all club functions. He loved Canada, and hearing different versions of singing of O Canada — especially his own — and he sang it louder and prouder than anyone else. He was a valued member and friend of the Washago Lions Cavanaugh’s Club and his presence o will always be felt. Sales Representative r Geoff’s celebration Thorough, thoughtful, confidential and professional service. n was extremely well20+ years experience with proven success for buyers and sellers. attended by family, e Ask about my pre-listing consultation. Lions members and r email: leah@realestate.orillia.com • www.century21.ca/leah.cavanaugh many friends.
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Can Emergency Services find you?
By Dianne Kyle, fire prevention officer Someone you know needs help — a family member or a neighbour. You call 9 1 1 and provide the information requested by the communicator, and describe the issue. Emergency services are on their way. The situation worsens and time seems to slow as you wait for help to arrive. In the distance you hear the sirens and you sigh in relief but the emergency vehicle just drove past and you wonder why they didn’t stop. You hear the siren come close again, and this time they are moving slower and finally stop in front of your home. For the most part, emergency services are quick to respond, but in some cases the
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house number is just not visible. It may be covered by shrubs, not in the best place for easy viewing or not even posted at all. Some homeowners make their own number sign as a way to decorate their home but forget that unless the numbers are reflective it is difficult to see especially during inclement weather or at night. In accordance with the provisions of the Township of Severn By-Law, all owners of properties which are not vacant are required to post their assigned municipal address. There are standards which govern the size, type and mounting location. As Fire Prevention Officer, I urge you to check your “green” numbers and ensure they are easily seen from the road. For more information and installation guidelines please drop by the Township Municipal Office and ask for the “Civic Address Green Emergency Signs” Guidelines. Preplanning saves time, when time is of the essence.
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Local author publishes fourth
Frank Cooper and Darren Bunker have built a snowman every May long weekend for the last 12 years. Seen here is (left to right) Darren, Michael Bunker, Matthew Bunker, Jason Bunker and 91-year-old Cooper, who, when it comes to snowmen, is the biggest kid of all.
Local author Steve Stanton of Washago has published a new fantasy novel, Goddess, the story of a young university student from Severn Township who joins a Toronto coven and becomes embroiled in the mystical disciplines of ancient magick. Steve Stanton is a sixth-generation Canadian whose family first pioneered Sparrow Lake around 1860 and founded the Port Stanton resort complex. Following on the heels of his acclaimed science-fiction series, The Bloodlight Chronicles (Reconciliation 2010, Retribution 2011, Redemption 2012), his new novel switches gears into the paranormal fantasy genre to chronicle the exploits of a small-town girl moving to the big city.
ADVERTISE YOUR GARAGE SALE FOR ONLY $10.00 Maximum 20 words. Payment must be received by June 24th for the July 15th issue, or by July 22nd for the August issue, by credit card only. Send your as copy to thevillagerpress@rogers.com, along with your daytime phone number. If you do not have email, call 705-717-0322
Announcements
STREET SALE Welcome to the world Rory Joan Heike Watson! Born May 13, 2013 Congratulations to Rosalind and Glenn Watson!
Best 20 years EVER! Happy Anniversary!
Much of the story takes part in Severn Township in the imaginary town of Woodsville, and the winding narrative includes a canoe excursion in the Kawarthas and a weekend retreat to a lakefront cottage in Muskoka where one of the witches is mysteriously murdered. Terrible truths simmer below the surface of this psychological thriller, and the devil himself demands a confrontation to test this young white witch from rural Ontario. The presentation starts with a quote from Rudyard Kipling: “Oh, do not tell the priest our plight, for he will call it sin; but we shall be in the woods all night, conjuring summer in.” Goddess is available as an ebook from Amazon.com.
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Advertise your special occasions in The Villager from as low as $17.95. Contact us at thevillagerpress@rogers.com for complete details. Our magazine is distributed the middle of each month. The deadline is the 22nd of the month previous to your published announcement.
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Donate money, see Davenport in a bra On May 29, the female staff of Davenport Subaru organized and launched a surprise fundraising initiative, ‘Rally for the Cure’, in honour of the late Adam Davenport, son of Mike and Cindy Davenport of Ramara Township. “It was a huge surprise,” said Mike, who was visibly emotional during the presentation. “I was just so touched by it.” JD Hunter of Sunshine 89.1 was on hand at the presentation and in his speech, commented on how much the Davenports have given to their community and to finding a cure for cancer. Adam sadly lost his battle with leukemia in 1997. “Since the passing of Adam, Mike and Cindy
have become great corporate citizens to the community. They go out of their way to put in a helping hand, big or small, they never say no. We have seen Mike lose his mustache and jump into a lake in the middle of winter, all for the cause. Cindy is always right behind him cheering him on and throwing pies in his face, as well.” ‘Rally for the Cure’ goes hand-in-hand with the Bras for a Cause fundraising initiative in Orillia and the bra that was created by the Davenport female staff is simply amazing, featuring all of the components of the Targa Newfoundland Race, from the green grass and painted houses to cars jumping over bridges, driving into the ocean and even hitting a house. “The detail of the bra is really unbelievable,” said Mike, who MPP Simcoe North participates in the race to raise money. “You Email: Garfield.dunlopco@pc.ola.org have to see this thing.” Website: www.garfielddunlopmpp.com Donations to ‘Rally for ORILLIA OFFICE: 14 Coldwater Rd. W., P.O. Box 2320, Orillia, ON L3V 6S2 the Cure’ can be made Telephone: 705-326-3246 of Toll Free 1-800-304-7341 at Davenport Subaru,
GARFIELD DUNLOP,
Fax: 705-326-9579
Cindy and Mike Davenport, along with their daughter, Skye Davenport, were surprised when Davenport staff launched a fundraising initiative in honour of their son, Adam Davenport.
385 West Street South. The top 10 local ‘bra causes’ that raise the most money in Orillia will be modeled in a fashion show at the waterfront in August.
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705-689-9581 Cell 705-305-4822
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Nancy
Epps
Agent #M08003146
705-330-6438 www.nancyepps.ca
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MORTGAGES
Community Happenings Send your group’s upcoming community event to kim@severnnewsonline.com.
Orillia Office: 773 Atherley Road, 705-325-7283
H.O. 440 Park Ave W., Chatham, ON N7M 1X2 Ph: 519.351.7283 - Lic. # 12114
Washago Jam
Every third Wednesday of the month, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Washago Lions Club Hall.
June 15, 2013
Charity Golf Tournament for Special Olympics Orillia will take place at Hawk Ridge Golf Course. Registration check in starts at noon with a shotgun tee off at 1 p.m.. Best Ball. Silent auction, door prizes, closest to the pin. $125 per person includes 18 holes at Timber Ridge with cart and dinner buffet. Dinner and silent auction only is $35 per person. Contact Pam Cousins at 705.259.2772 or Laurie Scmitt at 705.259.0989 for more information.
June 23, 2013
be a cash bar and BBQ. Tickets are $10 per A Family Fun Day and BBQ will be held at the person and can be purchased through Jim Ramona Hall in Ramara Township between 11 Hanwell (689.5629). a.m. and 4 p.m. to help the McDonald family July 1, 2013 who lost their home and belongings in a fire. Join the Washago Lions Club for their There will be a BBQ, draws, games and lots of Annual Canada Day Pancake Breakfast fun for the whole family! between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Lions
June 23, 2013
Hall, 4343 Hamilton St. in Washago. Live Everyone is invited to celebrate the new entertainment will begin on the patio at church building for the Hope Community noon with a BBQ and cash bar. It’s the place Christian Church with a Grand Opening to be to celebrate Canada Day in Washago! Service and community picnic and BBQ at July 5–7, 2013 2700 Cumberland Rd. The church service Mariposa Folk Festival at Tudhope Park in will commence at 10:30 a.m. with the picnic Orillia will feature 47 performers, 18 food and BBQ to follow at noon. Bring lawnchairs vendors, two beer tents, Folkplay for Kids, and desserts or salads to share (pot luck Artisans Village and so much more! Tickets June 20, 2013 style). Hamburgers, hotdogs and beverages can be purchased in advance at www. The Ramara Historical Society is having its will be provided. mariposafolk.com. monthly meeting at 7 p.m. This month, it will be a Box Car meeting at Cecil Byers, 4100 June 23, 2013 July 13 & 14, 2013 Sideroad 20, just east of Uptergrove. Tour The 30th Annual Arts for Peace Festival Art on the Severn will take place between the box cars and explore Ramara’s railway will take place from noon to 5 p.m. on the 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 heritage. grounds of the Stephen Leacock Museum a.m. and 4 p.m. on Sunday at the Washago in Orillia. Activities include, live music, Community Centre. This juried art show June 22 & 23, 2013 dancing, crafts. Admission is free. and sale will feature the work of a variety of The Coldwater & Area Studio Tour will visual artists and artisans. Admission is by take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on June 29, 2013 both days. The tour encompasses 18 stops Join the Washago Lions for a Rocking donation and proceeds go to art programs and focuses on the work of 39 local artists Canada Day weekend celebration at the at the centre. There will also be an on-site whose works include fine art, photography, Lions Hall, 4343 Hamilton St. in Washago. BBQ by the First Washago Scout Group. woodcarving, pottery, weaving, quilts, Legendary Grant Fullerton, one of Canada’s hand-made rugs and ironworks. Look for premier guitarists will perform, starting brochures at local stores. at 9 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. There will
Addison Simpson, 5, finds a treasure or two at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church rummage sale.
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Linda Davidson jazzes it up to sell her wares at the Washago Community Centre Yard Sale.
Aiden Montgomery, 3, and five-and-a-halfyear-old sister Madisyn check out a Ramara Fire Truck at the Drive-a-Car fundraising event for Rama Central Public School and the Ramara Fire Department.
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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®
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315 West St. S Orillia
705.325.3500 speedyglass.ca
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13-06-05 3:30 PM