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October 2015
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Helping the hungry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
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Solar farm conflicts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Community Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Giving Thanks By Ellen Cohen
Many of us will feel gratitude on October 12th as we celebrate Thanksgiving, a most beautiful and meaningful time of the year. As we celebrate our bountiful harvest, spectacular fall colours will highlight the day. We will feel thankful for those who grow our food, for those who prepare it, and for those with whom we share the day. However, on the early morning of the second day of fall, as I prepared to write this article, I had trouble feeling gratitude. I sat on my deck that overlooks a great expanse of Lake Couchiching. I forced myself to dig deep because I so wanted to write an article about giving thanks. But I found it difficult, almost impossible. Impossible because I am grieving the very recent loss of my beloved life partner. It was easier to feel deep sorrow than to think about thankfulness. But then my dear dog, who was spread out on the grass, warming her old bones in the sun, stood up, looked over the edge of the dock into the water and started to whine. Her tail wagged furiously. There were fish under the dock and she simply had to get in the water. She did. And I smiled. And then it occurred to me that if my 13year old arthritic, lame and lumpy old dog can still find comfort in the morning sun and such joy in something as simple as fish swimming under her dock, so could I. Despite grief’s vice grip on my chest, and overwhelming fatigue, a list began to form. I share it now with you. It is short.
Beautiful fall colours on a drive through Severn Township. Photo by Cathy Cleary. I feel gratitude for… • Family who give me unquestioning love and comfort. • A best friend who reaches into my heart to ease my pain - or share joy. • Neighbours who are kind and thoughtful and care so much. • Beauty in the sky, the water, in every inch of this extraordinary part of the world. • Food on the table - with plenty to share. • A home for shelter and a place to welcome those I love. When I wrote it down, it took no time before a profound sense of gratitude overcame me. And then I wondered about those unable to relate to even one item on my list: a widower not well enough to visit far away family; a woman who works hard but must spend most of her money on rent instead of food; a mother who has fled an abusive
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home and is now bereft of anything familiar or comforting. So I thought that maybe each one of us could do something to make a difference, to pay our gratitude forward. Find someone to share our bounty with this Thanksgiving. Each of us could squeeze in an extra chair at the dining room table. Surely through a neighbour or friend, pastor or service club, we can find someone to fill that chair, if only for one day. Eventually, of course, my mind goes back to my life. Although my chest still hurts and I feel so damn sad and lonely, I find myself thinking about the possibility of actually cooking a big dinner on October 12th. It’s been tradition in our house. I wonder if my friend and her son will come to my home again this year, and if the widower just a few doors down the street has any plans for Thanksgiving?
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3
The cupboard is bare Christine Hager, the executive director of The Sharing Place Food Bank is worried. There are only two bulk shelves stocked with food. The rest are empty and people are hungry. Fewer donations over the summer, along with the resumption of school, has put tremendous pressure on reserves. The reserves Christine refers to are at 22 West Street South in Orillia. Operating four days a week, it is primarily an emergency assistance food centre, serving individuals who live in Orillia and the surrounding area. Established in 1988, it is the largest food bank in our immediate area and in the past 12 months it has provided food to over 15,000 people. Among their clients are the working poor - those employed but earning very little; seniors on small fixed incomes; single parents; and students. All of them simply find themselves in the untenable position of being unable to put enough food on the table. They turn to The Sharing Place to help them out and once a month they can secure a 3-5 day supply of food, including fresh vegetables, meat and milk. The Sharing Place relies on the generosity of individual donors, local businesses and large corporate partners. One example of a local business donor is Home Hardware Orillia. They have provided The Sharing Place with fresh garden produce for the past three years, expanding every year to what is now a project that includes nine raised garden beds. Home Hardware Orillia staff, MJ and Deb grow carrots, tomatoes, potatoes and green beans, among other fresh produce. They clean it and pack it up and arrange for delivery to The Sharing Place.
The Sharing Place executive director, Christine Hager, left and Shawna Ballick are shown in the ‘check out’ area of Orillia’s largest food bank. Photo by Be Herd Communications. The garden project has been so successful representatives of Home Hardware’s head office have produced a video of the Orillia affiliate’s garden program. They hope that other stores will follow suit and become community-based food producers through their own garden centres. Christine Hager and operations manager, Shawna Ballick also work with Food Banks Canada with whom The Sharing Place is a member. This affiliation makes it easier to acquire donations from large corporate partners such as Heinz, McCain’s and Kraft. And, as the name implies, The Sharing Place makes sure when they secure large donations such as skids of canned goods, it is shared among other community organizations including the two other food banks, Salvation Army and Lighthouse, or churches that have a food program. Getting as much food as possible to the needy is, of course, the priority. Christine notes that cash donations result in more food on the shelves because the food bank purchases everything on a wholesale
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or discounted basis. However, whether donations come in the form of money or food, the work to turn donations into stocked shelves requires a significant amount of coordination. While Christine and Shawna manage the bulk of the management of The Sharing Place, more than 50 active volunteers work either in the warehouse or behind the scenes to ensure that whatever food is available is inspected, sorted, shelved and ready for their clients. In addition to staff and the volunteers who work at the operational level of the food bank, there is a twelve-member volunteer board of directors who offer their time and a variety of professional specialties. They support staff, offer advice and advocate for Sharing Place within the community. Community partners are also integral to the success of Sharing Place. Among others, they include the Orillia Youth Centre, Information Orillia, North Simcoe Victim Services, the Orillia Farmers Market, Continued on page 14
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Ellen Cohen Publisher thevillagerpress@rogers.com 705-717-0322 The Villager, a Severn Township community news magazine, is an independently owned and operated publication delivered to households and businesses on or before the first day of every month. It is mailed through Canada Post north from the Severn Township/Orillia border to Severn Bridge and includes parts of Ramara Township. In addition to Canada Post delivery, The Villager is distributed each month through high traffic locations along the Highway 11 corridor and in many other select locations in Orillia. For a complete list of locations email thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Editorial and advertising material is protected by copyright. Reproduction of any article, photograph or graphic is forbidden without the express permission of the publisher. The sentiments of our columnists do not necessarily reflect those of The Villager. The Villager’s liability to advertisers for errors is limited to the portion of the advertisement in which an error occurs and only if the error is the fault of The Villager. Community event submissions and prearranged editorial contributions must be received by the 10th of each month for the following month’s publication. Advertising space must be booked by the 10th of each month in order to appear in the following month’s publication, with 5 business days thereafter to complete the advertising artwork and proof approval process.
The Villager P.O. Box 5 Washago, ON L0K 2B0
Art director: Cathy Cleary, www.cathycleary.tel
The north end of Lake Couchiching going to sleep on a late August evening. From the Publisher:
Cast aside your boredom! The federal election campaign has been one of the longest in Canadian history. Are you so very weary of reading column after column in countless news sources, each of them subtly, or not so subtly, swaying you for - or against - a candidate or political party? Are you ready to listen for another 2+ weeks to the drone of mind-numbing rhetoric, or the wellrehearsed and snappy comebacks that come in 10-second sound bites or 144 character tweets? It might be a lot to ask, but now is precisely the time to cast aside your boredom or complete indifference. Simcoe North has some bright, well-prepared, eager and sincere federal election candidates who are ready to represent you in Ottawa. Each of them has a very specific and well-thought out platform. They stand for something and it’s up to you to decide which one of them most closely represents your hopes and dreams for Simcoe North and for our country. Put aside the temptation to let someone else make the decision for you. Help shape our nation and exercise one of the greatest privileges available to Canadians. On October 19th, vote. LETTERS TO THE PUBLISHER: I would like to send a shout-out to Chef Becky for the pickled onions recipe in the September issue of The Villager. As much as I might wish to do some home canning of summer produce, I have to admit I am not particularly adept at it. Besides, there always seems to be something more important to do in my spare time - such as relaxing on the deck and reading a book. But Chef Becky’s recipe was really easy for me to make and the results were delicious. I predict this recipe will become a staple in my kitchen. Thanks! Cathy Cleary, Severn Township Low water levels - this is a huge issue for me and many other Lake Couch residents. Tuesday morning after Labour Day and my 230 Cobalt has already spent 4 weeks in the water at the end of my 108’ dock because the water level is too low to get my boat on the lift. I have attended every town hall meeting and spoken at length with the ministry. We need to demand a rule curve change that would give us 6 more inches of water for 6 more weeks. Bruce Stanton has facilitated meetings but he is either unable or unwilling to drive the issue forward. Jim Williams, Severn Township Letters to the publisher are welcome and may be emailed to thevillagerpress@rogers.com. Letters may be edited.
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Local entrepreneur makes a difference Bonnie Smith has a passion for the health care service industry and particularly loves that she can make a difference in the lives of seniors. She’s worked in the health care service industry for most of her adult life, introduced at the corporate level at Shoppers Home Health Care. For the first five years she worked on the billing and order taking side of the business. Then, when she made the move to Orillia, she stayed with the corporation and had the opportunity to learn the retail side of the business, working directly with customers. After close to a decade in the health care service business, with skills firmly in place along with an excellent knowledge of the industry, she felt her next logical step was to start her own business. She started her business out of her home and for the next six years Home Comfort Care Services sold, rented and serviced medical supplies and equipment. Business was good and the need for her services grew. She branched out from the Washago area and soon had clients in Bradford, Alliston, Tottenham, Barrie, Orillia and beyond. Bonnie says that while on sales calls north of Washago, she was approached by
several different people in the Gravenhurst area who asked about service for their mobility aids. An entrepreneur at heart, she felt an opportunity could be in the waiting. She conducted some market research and an informal survey, both of which indicated that the closing of a Gravenhurst home health care business had left a void in the community. Bonnie knew she could grow her business so she decided it was the right time to open a store front. Luckily, she found a good location right off Highway 11 on Bethune Drive in Gravenhurst. The CDC (Community Development Corporation of Orillia and Area) was impressed enough with her business plan to help turn Bonnie’s dream into a reality. They provided a loan to renovate the Bethune Drive location and the store opened for business on June 8th of this year. It’s an open floor plan, a clean and bright store that displays a large and broad range of products including lift chairs, bathroom safety devices and aids for daily living, cushions and back supports, therapy products and mobility items. A specialist in incontinence, Bonnie’s business works confidentially with clients
Shown in her new store with customer, Bud Herd, Bonnie Smith is the owner of Home Comfort Care Services. Photo by Be Herd Communications. to provide the appropriate supplies. She works with many who live in retirement and nursing homes in the area. Bonnie also has contracts with Community Living and Simcoe Community Services, conducting one-onone consultations for these products providing adaptive clothing. She is also certified for compression fitting. Home Comfort Care Services is a full service business and they sell or rent, or can acquire, almost any product a client needs including walk aids and
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Continued on page 10
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hospital beds. They even have a massage table which is available for rent. Mobility devices of all descriptions are also available for sale or rent and can also be serviced. Those devices include scooters, walkers/rollators and wheelchairs. An authorized vendor for coordinating funding for the products she sells or rents, Bonnie will work with her clients who are applying for funding through the DVA, ODSP, WSIB and the Ontario March of Dimes.
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There is nothing quite like a fall walk Fall is the absolute best time to go on a walk or an extended hike. The colours are great and there is that wonderful fall aroma in the air. Luckily, within a short drive or bike ride, there are literally dozens of parks and trails, most very well marked, many with picnic areas nearby and some that offer guided tours. To find a list of walking or hiking areas, visit: www.simcoetrails.ca www.ontarioslakecountry.com www.ontariotrails.on.ca www.orillia.ca www.discovermuskoka.ca
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Washago Lions planning 15th Annual Grey Cup party By Sandra Crawford, Past President We have had an exceptional summer with lots of sunshine leading us into a great autumn. As always, Washago is the place to be with so much to see and do. Canada Day was a blast, the village alive with people many of them joining the Washago Lions Club with our all day events. Thank you Washago and surrounding areas for making this year one of the best ever. All of you are very familiar with our Annual Grey Cup party at the Lions Hall. This year will be the 15th year for our Grey Cup event on Sunday, November 29th at the Lions Hall with our fabulous Chili meal with sausage on a bun, lots of snacks, and of course The Watering Hole, our bar – a great name for Lions! And to top off the night, the winning ticket will be drawn for
the ATV and trailer raffle. We’ve been selling tickets for the raffle at Washago’s LCBO, as I’m sure many of you have seen. Plus you can enjoy a cash game pool, and silent auction. It promises to be another great event! The game will be viewed on TWO large TV screens. Lots of fun for all. For tickets to this event please call Past President, Lion Garnet Langelle at 705 689 3974. Don’t forget Lion Dougie’s JAM NIGHT at the Lions Hall Wednesday, October 21st, 2015. Bring your friends to play, sing or dance if you wish.
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Federal Election Candidates – a brief review The following is a brief description of the federal candidates for Simcoe North, along with highlights of their individual party platforms according to their published materials or websites. This is by no means a comprehensive analysis but we hope that it is a start to inspiring you to look for more information. Voters still have 2½ weeks to learn as
much as possible about the federal election candidates. It has been our experience that candidates welcome phone calls and emails. It gives them, or their representatives, the opportunity to connect with voters. Each of them will want to answer your questions, discuss their platform and explain their vision of the future of Simcoe North and Canada.
Don’t hesitate to contact them. Publisher’s note: The candidates in this feature are listed alphabetically by last name. Only the four national parties leading (in the polls) are represented in this feature. For information on all candidates visit The Villager Community News on Facebook, September issue.
RICHARD BANIGAN, NDP Party
LIZ RILEY, Liberal party
A resident of Tiny Township, Mr. Banigan and his wife have four children and eight grandchildren. Mr. Banigan was the federal NDP candidate in Simcoe north in 2008 and 2011. He has been involved in a number of nonprofits and has volunteered for, among others, addicted youth organizations and community theatre groups. The federal NDP party platform includes: a balanced budget this fiscal year; a $15/day daycare program; scrapping of the income-splitting program; a cut to the tax rate for small business; a reversal of the current government’s tax cuts for big business. The NDP opposes the bombing campaign against ISIL. They oppose the Northern Gateway and Keystone XL pipeline and want more environmental review for Energy East.
Born and raised on a farm in Muskoka, Ms. Riley is currently a resident of Orillia. She has spent her professional life in the health care sector and retired in 2014 as CEO of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital. Ms. Riley is a champion for fair and open government and a healthy environment and economy. Her advocacy includes improved health care, especially seniors, and agricultural issues. The federal Liberal platform includes: the running of a modest deficit; a cut to the tax rate for middle-class income earners and an increase to the tax rate for incomes of $200,000+; the cancellation of the TFSA increase to $10,000 and an introduction of a new taxfree child payment; cancellation of the current government’s plan to increase Old Age Security from 65 to 67 years of age. The Liberal
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9 party opposes the bombing campaign against ISIL but supports military trainees in Iran and an increase humanitarian aid. They oppose Northern Gateway pipeline and support the Energy East and Keystone XL pipelines.
BRUCE STANTON, Progressive Conservative party Mr. Stanton is a resident of Severn Township. He and his wife, Heather live near Coldwater with their two daughters. He has served in municipal politics in Severn Township and was first elected to the House of Commons in 2006. He was re-elected in October of 2008 and May, 2011. Prior to his election as MP in Simcoe North, Mr. Stanton promoted and advocated for the tourism industry and his local community. He has served on the boards of several tourism organizations. The Progressive Conservative platform includes: a balanced budget in this fiscal year; the reduction of the small-business tax rate; the introduction of a family tax cut for children under age 18; and a TFSA contribution increase from $5,500 to $10,000. The Progressive Conservatives are committed to the military mission against ISIL. They support the Enbridge Northern Gateway oil sands pipeline, the Keystone XL pipeline and the TransCanada Energy East proposal.
PETER STUBBINS, Green Party Peter Stubbins, a career physiotherapist spent two terms on council for the Township of Tiny, became the deputy mayor and then a Simcoe County councillor. He ran for a provincial seat in Simcoe North in 2011 and 2014. He has co-founded a number of cultural and environmental organizations geared to habitat restoration, public access to natural resources and waste diversion programs. The Green Party platform includes: the elimination of personal taxes on incomes below $20,000; the reduction of the small business tax rate with an increase to corporate taxes levels; the introduction of a comprehensive security plan that ensures responses to terrorism are within an international law framework. The Green Party will introduce carbon pricing through a fee-anddividend system to reduce fossil fuel use and encourage private sector investment in green technology.
Does your organization have an upcoming event? Email us by the 10th of the month and we’ll publish the details in the next month’s issue. If you miss that deadline, we’ll post the information on The Villager’s Facebook page. thevillagerpress@rogers.com
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10 Local entrepreneur makes a difference Continued from page 5 An in-depth application process is required to coordinate these programs and requires working closely with therapists and other health care support workers to facilitate the needs of the clients, all of which Bonnie helps to coordinate. Bonnie believes that staff will provide the best service if they feel a connection to both the clients and to Home Comfort Care. She says that when she was very young and working in a factory, her boss would come onto the factory floor every day to say good morning. It was a small but important gesture – and a management style she mimics to this day, something she believes helps her deliver the best service.
“Because our clients’ needs are so unique, every staff member at Home Comfort Care, those working in the store or in a remote location, has to be part of what I call a ‘helping team’ with a connection to their customers and my company.” Notably, all staff understand the need to exercise patience and take the time necessary to make clients feel confident. That time, depending on what equipment is being purchased, includes a discussion about the operation of the equipment, proper fittings or adjustments or modifications, and a lesson in safety. “We want our clients to leave our store feeling that they’ve been helped and that we Home Comfort Care Services is located just off the highway in have made their lives easier,” Gravenhurst. They offer a full line of medical supplies and equipment says Bonnie. – sales, service and rentals. Photo by Be Herd Communications.
For more information about Home Comfort Care Services at 421 Bethune Drive, Gravenhurst, visit www.homecomfortcare.ca or contact owner Bonnie Smith directly at 705-687-3890 or info@homecomfortcare.ca
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This business profile was made possible with the assistance of Laurie Herd, Be Herd Communications.
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Help support Junior A Hockey in Severn
By Pat Harwood, Recreation coordinator Summer is over but Severn’s Culture & Recreation department is not going into hibernation. In fact, there is always a lot going on. Check out the Recreation Guide on the township’s website. You’ll find programs available throughout the township. The culture and recreation planning for 2016 is just beginning. If you have ideas for new programs we would like to hear from you. Send us your ideas for indoor or outdoor recreation for all age levels. A Severn resident has suggested badminton and that is now on our radar. Perhaps there’s interest in bocce ball, indoors or outdoors? And for those who just can’t get enough of golf, perhaps there is interest in disc golf?
What about those volunteer hours for school? Now is the time to start planning. Students please get in touch with us and we’ll help you get your hours completed. For more information on Culture & Recreation in Severn Township please visit www. townshipofsevern.com
The Falcons Junior A hockey club is pleased to announce its inaugural season in Coldwater. Playing out of Coldwater & District Community Centre, a team of skilled players will drop the puck at their home-opener on October 12th at 7:30 p.m. During the season, the Falcons will play 21 home games.
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“The fans, the town, and the players are the focus of the team, and we would like to see a relationship between the players and the community,” states owner Stephane Laveault. “It’s impossible to have a successful team without an army of fans. For all the rallying support they provide the team, we look to equally support the community.” In addition to Severn Township’s Adam DeCola, players include those from Russia, Czechoslovakia, the United States, United Kingdom and other countries. For ticket and schedule information contact the Coldwater & District Community centre at 705-686-3322.
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Proclaimed by Parliament in 1879 as "a day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed," Thanksgiving draws upon 3 traditions: harvest celebrations in European peasant societies for which the symbol was the cornucopia (horn of plenty); formal observances, such as that celebrated by Martin FROBISHER in the eastern Arctic in 1578--the first North American Thanksgiving--in which Frobisher and his crew gave thanks for their well-being; and the Pilgrims' celebration of their first harvest in Massachusetts (1621) involving the uniquely American turkey, squash and pumpkin. The celebration was brought to Nova Scotia in the 1750s and the citizens of Halifax commemorated the end of the SEVEN YEARS' WAR (1763) with a day of Thanksgiving. Loyalists brought the celebration to other parts of the country. Starting in 1879, Thanksgiving was officially celebrated annually in Canada. Parliament declared 6 Nov 1879 as a day of Thanksgiving; it was celebrated as a national rather than a religious holiday. Later and earlier dates were observed, the most popular being the third Monday in Oct. After the First World War, Thanksgiving and Armistice (later Remembrance) Day were celebrated in the same week. It was not until 31 Jan 1957 that Parliament proclaimed the observance of Thanksgiving on the second Monday in Oct. E.C. DRURY, the former "Farmer-Premier" of Ontario lamented later that "the farmers' own holiday has been stolen by the towns" to give them a long weekend when the weather was better.
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Solar Farms Raise Local Conflicts
by Ron Reid
108 Mississaga St. E., Orillia
705-329-3939
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At first blush, “green energy” sounds like a great alternative to the traditional coalburning or nuclear plants that have provided electrical power to Ontario. The coal-burning plants are now closed, and programs to kick-start solar energy development have been notably successful. But like so many programs based on good intentions, the Devil is in the details. Our region has emerged as a favoured area to locate solar farms, and now we are beginning to see the local downside of these projects. The Ramona Solar Farm proposal, which is located not far east of Washago, provides a good example. This project could cover up to 600 acres with row upon row of solar panels set on racks. These panels would be located primarily on lands leased from local farmers for a 20-year period. For this small group of landowners, the project will be a financial windfall. But for their neighbours, who don’t receive any significant compensation, the project raises all sorts of troubling questions. Will this kind of industrial use next door affect property values when the time comes to sell? Will the deer and other wild creatures that regularly visit my farm be scared off by the panels? Will my views of a rural countryside be destroyed? What disruptions will I have to face during several years of construction? Many of those questions would be the same no matter what kind of major land use change was proposed, whether a quarry or a subdivision or even a special events park. Any major development fundamentally changes the quiet beauty of the countryside. Worse yet, the solar farm proposal divides community members who have known each other for decades into financial winners and losers. Ramona is only one area facing these challenges. In the round of proposals for new solar facilities to be considered this fall, there are at least three sites in Ramara and one in Severn to be considered. The City of Kawartha Lakes has 10 proposals. Only a few are likely to be successful, and those will have to undergo a series of
environmental and technical studies to prove their acceptability. But the disruption to rural communities, even at this proposal stage, is very real. In large part, we are seeing this surge of solar farm proposals in our region because the Province has decreed that they can’t be built on high-quality agricultural lands. For both environmental and financial reasons, solar companies avoid heavily forested sites. So lower-class farmlands, like the Ramona site, are highly desired.
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / kadmy
Solar farm Ramara Township Council recently voted their support for the Ramona site, and in my view, they were right to do so. While I have considerable sympathy for the neighbours affected, there are larger concerns to be considered. A rapid shift from fossil fuels to green energy is an urgent priority to combat climate change. The company involved should do everything in its power to address community concerns, but the project should be given the green light to proceed. A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the cofounder and former executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy. He has written more than 30 magazine articles and co-authored three books. He lives in Washago with his wife, Janet Grand.
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Washago Community Centre Events Annual Christmas Craft, Bake and Gift Show • This annual event takes place on November 21st from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. VENDORS: book your tables early to avoid disappointment. Space is limited. Call 705-689-6424.
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Coldwater Library temporarily closed beginning October 17 Renovations on the Coldwater Library will begin in October. The facility will be closed to the public starting on Saturday, October 17th. It will re-open on Monday, November 9th. To accommodate library members, extra material may be signed out during the renovation period and due dates will reflect the closure period. Please be advised that eBooks and eAudio Books will still be available during this time. Residents wishing to apply for a new membership may still
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visit the Township offices. Reminder to all residents: A Coldwater Library membership gives electronic access to 49,353 eBook titles through an Ontario library system and another 7,900 titles through the county system. There are also 13,214 eAudio books available. E-books and audio books can be read on a tablet, e-reader, laptop or desktop. Library staff can be reached at 705-686-3601 and you can view the Severn Library website at www.coldwater.library.on.ca.
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14 The cupboard is bare Continued from page 3 the Fairgrounds Farmers Market and the Orillia Community Gardens, Georgian College and Lakehead University. Georgian and Lakehead, through their co-op and intern programs have provided design services for Sharing Place marketing materials, including a video, and they have compiled valuable data through research studies. Both higher learning facilities take their involvement in Sharing Place so seriously that this year there will be five students working on specific food bank related projects. As executive director, it is important for Christine to establish, grow and develop meaningful and long-term contacts and partnerships. They are vital to the overall success of
the organization and necessary in order to manage change and develop new programs that meet community needs. Healthy Choices for Kids is an example of one of the programs developed out of need. Families in need, who have school-aged children have access to snack items such as yogurt tubes, fruit cups plus one piece of fresh fruit per child per day. This program has recently expanded from operating only during the school year to 12 months a year. The cost to operate this one program is more than $1,700 per month. In spite of all the work The Sharing Place does, the reality is, although we may not be aware, we all have neighbours, including children and seniors,
Filling these empty boxes with food can only happen if The Sharing Place receives donations of money and food. Photo: Be Herd Communications. who still go to bed hungry. It’s anyone’s guess how many clients the food bank will serve in the next 12 months but, Christine says, if we all give a little it will make a big difference in so many lives.
To make a donation to The Sharing Place or to get information about the programs available, please visit www.sharingplaceorillia.org or call 705-327-4273.
She adds, “The goal of all food banks is to one day close their doors because of a lack of need. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like that is happening anytime soon.” This article was made possible with the assistance of Laurie Herd, Be Herd Communications.
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Severn Township Monthly Highlights Parks and Facilities The Washago Community Centre is addressing concerns regarding ice buildup on the roof. The board hired a professional roofer for input on how best to address the issue prior to the winter season. It was determined that improved venting is required for proper air circulation on the roof. This, along with the regular clearing of snow on the roof, should alleviate future ice problems. In Bayou Park, the pavilion area will have crushed gravel installed as a compacted finishing product. This will facilitate ease of movement and will help to clean up wet areas in the park. In addition, wheelchair accessible picnic tables are being added. These initiatives, along with other finishing touches, will make for a more inclusive and safer park for all users. The Matchedash Community Centre celebrated its 100th anniversary on September 13 with Councillor Dunlop, Councillor Taylor, Deputy Mayor Cox and Mayor Burkett in attendance. Joining in the festivities of the day were members Ontario Womens’ Institute celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the North River Women’s Institute including Institute member and past Warden of Simcoe County, Helen Coutts. The Federated Women’s Institute of Ontario is a not‐for‐profit charitable organization with affiliations around the world. The organization works with and for women in rural and small town Ontario. Township council members were proud to celebrate this special anniversary with the women who look out for the best interests of the community.
Washago Flower Boxes Local residents and visitors to the area have enjoyed the beautifully maintained flower boxes on the sidewalks in Washago. Part of the township beautification plan, these flower boxes were maintained throughout the season by local business owners. Severn Council sincerely thanks them for their effort and ongoing dedication to this community project.
pricing from suppliers including large capital expenses such as roads construction and large vehicle purchases. • Budget Summary Presentation – Monday December 7th, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. • Budget Deliberations – Friday December 11th, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. • Budget Deliberations – Thursday December 17th, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. if required.
Master Fire Plan Through the 2015 budget process, a capital estimated amount of $30,000 was approved by Council for staff to have a third party complete a master fire plan for the corporation. The purpose of the plan is to examine, review, analyze and provide a detailed report outlining strengths and weaknesses of the Severn Fire and Emergency Services. This report will include recommendations to address any shortcomings and provide for future growth, building on existing resources. The scope of work will include reviewing the bylaws, existing agreements with other municipalities and the fire prevention program. It is expected this project will come in under budget.
Volunteer Service Awards Each year, the Township of Severn recognizes individuals for their volunteerism. Six nominations have been received and they will be recognized at the October 1, 2015 council meeting. Those who will receive awards are: Rose Petit; Coldwater & District Horticultural Society; Washago Garden Club; Wendy Sullivan; Lorraine and Gerald Brown; and James Stanton. In addition to public recognition, all will receive a certificate signed by Mayor Burkett and a township pin. Congratulations to these dedicated individuals and groups for their contributions to the people of Severn Township.
2016 Budget Dates Severn Township staff have suggested that budget deliberations for 2016 be moved from January to December to allow for the budget approval to occur prior to the commencement of the fiscal year. This earlier budget process will allow approval of capital items earlier improving opportunities to receive more competitive
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Washago couple put QUESTIONS ABOUT their business acumen HEARING LOSS? to work for conservation Let Ellis Hearing Aid Service By Mark Bisset
Standing in a section of the Couchiching Conservancy office which is missing most of the elements that make up its walls, Kristi McKechnie rolls her eyes at Don Scott. She’s reacting to his claim that everything the architectural designer does has to have a wall on an odd angle. Like a trademark. She denies it, then laughs, perhaps conceding the point. She has, after all, just finished explaining a great solution to a problem of wheelchair accessibility in the renovation of the Grant’s Woods office just outside Orillia: a wall on a 45-degree angle. The Washago couple run the binary businesses of K. McKechnie Architectural Design and Scott Inc. Construction and they are at the core of a volunteer committee that is overseeing the renovation of the land trust’s office. Kristi and Don have devoted thousands of hours to the Conservancy over the years. Both were heavily involved in the original renovation of the farmhouse that was donated along with more than 50 acres of old growth forest by Bill Grant in memory of his brother Jack. When Bill passed away and left a legacy to the Conservancy, an
opportunity arose to upgrade the building further. Kristi and Don once again stepped up to help with the renovation. A grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation, combined with Bill Grant’s gift, is allowing the Conservancy to make its office completely accessible, and remove its carbon footprint through the installation of geothermal heating and solar power. The renovation committee is chaired by David A. Homer and includes Ken Thomson, Bruce Duncan and Conservancy staff along with Don and Kristi. Together they are steering the project through its various phases, enlisting other businesses assistance and managing the work. In addition to lending their many skills, Kristi and Don have allowed the committee to meet regularly at their office and have rallied the local construction community behind the project. The two are excellent examples of business people who see the value in investing in their community. They are committed to the idea that a healthy environment is crucial to a healthy community. They love the natural Continued on page 23
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Volunteer project manager Bruce Duncan consults with Kristi McKechnie and Don Scott during the renovation of the Grant’s Woods Conservation Centre, administrative heart of The Couchiching Conservancy. The three are part of a team devoting many hours to the project to upgrade the building with solar power, geothermal heating and full accessibility, thanks to a grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and a legacy gift from Bill Grant.
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Fall is a busy time for the Lioness Club By Estelle Ness, Lioness president
Where has the time gone? We blew through spring, then summer and now we are into fall, my favorite season. I love the colours and the way the air smells; there is no more humidity or extreme heat. But best of all, the Lioness are in full swing once again. To those who attended our first Court Whist card party and luncheon we thank you and
hope you enjoyed yourselves. October remains a quiet month as far as the public is concerned. However, we are extremely busy behind closed doors. It is time to roll the pastry and fill the meat pies. Because of the increase in sales, we have set a quota of 400 and already half have been sold. Any our Lioness can take your order – don’t miss your chance to enjoy these delicious meat pies,
perfect for the season. Then we move on to the busy month of November. On Remembrance Day, two of our Lioness will place a wreath at the cenotaph in Orillia. November 11th is also the date of our second Court Whist card party and luncheon. We will remember our fallen members of the armed services with a moment of silence before Court Whist begins. On November
21st we have our much awaited Christmas Bazaar. There will be lots of goodies to buy and a super soup, sandwich and dessert luncheon to enjoy. Helpful hint for this month is: Vinegar and baking soda. What a combination, it cleans almost anything. If you are having trouble cleaning your tile grout, try this combination (equal parts) and scrub with a tooth brush.
Attention Residents:
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Evergreen Golf Centre is hosting a public meeting to present its Annual Report on Class 9 pesticide use as required by Ontario Regulation 63/09 under the Pesticides Act. The Annual Report summarizes the use of Class 9 pesticides used at Evergreen Golf Centre for the year 2014. The meeting will take place at Evergreen Golf Centre 3372 Agnew Rd., Washago 6:00 pm, Thursday, October 22, 2015. Tim Edwards, owner, 705-689-5071
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Rotary Washago & Area - Centennial By Candy Potter, Rotarian Craft Beer Festival We are hosting a Craft Beer Festival at the Washago Community Centre on Saturday October the 3rd from 6 p.m. 10 p.m. Muskoka Brewery, Lake of Bays Brewing Company, Highlander Brew Co., and Side Launch Craft Brewery will be there with samplings of their brews. Local food vendors, including CiaoChowCiao, will be offering tastings. Tickets are $15 and if you buy in advance, you get 3 complimentary tasting tickets. More tasting tickets will be available at the event for $1 each. You trade tasting tickets for tastes of beer and food! Get tickets from any Rotarian, or at Jax Bootery, or by contacting Janet at 705-689-9090.
Camp Couchiching Leadership Development Program One of our club’s top priorities is to support programs for children and youth. We love collaborating with local organizations so when Camp Couch approached us to support their Leadership Development Program which was to include local youth, it was a perfect fit. The intensive summer long program develops hard skills such as the Bronze Medallion swimming certification, ORCKA canoe certification, CanSail sailing certification and First Aid/CPR training and soft skills such as conflict resolution, team building, program development and implementation, and facilitation skills. We are proud to have been a sponsor for this program. If you want to learn more, please come to our
meeting on November 26th and hear participant Miila Tuju describe her experience. Kayak Winner On September 9th we had a Rotarian, visiting from Australia, draw the winning ticket from the barrel for our kayak draw. Congratulations to Clevis Grinius of Washago. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets - you supported local and international causes and have helped make the world a better place. Special thanks to Chris from The Paddle Shack for generously donating
the kayak. Come on Out If you want to have fun, meet people who are making a difference and have a positive impact on the local and international community check us out any time! We meet from 5-6:30 on Thursdays at the Washago Community Centre where we have a drink or coffee and a snack, socialize, do some business and listen to an informative and inspiring guest speaker. Check us out at www.WashagoRotary.com or on Facebook!
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Fall Pumpkin and Thornbury Apple Soup By Chef Becky Ingredients • 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil • 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter • 1 onion • 1½ lb. of cubed pie pumpkin (roast off for more flavour) • 1 lb. potatoes sliced • 2 apples peeled and sliced • 2½ cups vegetable stock (can substitute milk for equal amounts of vegetable stock) • 2½ cups milk • Cracked salt and pepper to taste • Optional - cooked bacon, cheese and crustini as garnish
Preparation Heat oil and sauté diced onion until starting to brown. Add pumpkin and potato. Cover and let sweat off until almost completely cooked. Stir so vegetables do not stick to pan. Stir in stock, seasoning (you may add nutmeg or cinnamon), and diced apple. Simmer for 10 minutes. Puree in food processor. Serve piping hot with a turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce.
Chef Becky Lennerton is the proprietor of Black River Food Company and a Red Seal instructor at the Liaison College of Culinary Art.
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surroundings of the Washago area and they want to keep some of it intact for the future. Many business leaders are concerned about big-picture issues like climate change, the loss of habitat for Ontario species and clean water, but the colossal nature of these problems can lead to an uncomfortable sense of helplessness. The antidote, some have discovered, is action right at home. Donate to the protect a local wetland and you’ve made a contribution to cleaner water; help a property team care for a regional grassland and you’ve thrown your weight into the fight to keep grassland bird populations from collapsing; contribute to a capital campaign to bring a healthy forest under protection and you’ve added a little extra resilience to the
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landscape in the face of a shifting climate. People doing these things in every community have a cumulative impact for the better. Kristi McKechnie and Don Scott get this. As a result, they have been supporters of the Conservancy for years. Not only have the two been generous donors, but Kristi has served a term on the board of directors and Don has assisted in multiple projects. The two are shining examples of the impact individuals can have in the face of big challenges. Mark Bisset is the Executive Director of The Couchiching Conservancy, a non-profit charitable land trust that protects natural areas both for public enjoyment today and for future generations. For more information on the Conservancy, go to www.couchichingconserv.ca
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Fire Prevention Week By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer
Fire Prevention Week is an annual public safety campaign aimed at raising awareness about fire safety. It was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 which tragically killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871. In Canada, Fire Prevention Week is proclaimed annually by the Governor General. The Saturday ending the week is also proclaimed as Fire Service Recognition Day to express appreciation for the many public services rendered by members of the Canadian fire service. Each year presents a new key message in regards to fire safety and this year the message is “Hear the beep, where you sleep!” Every bedroom needs a working smoke alarm as well as outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement. Smoke alarms save lives. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out. In fact, having a working smoke alarm cuts the chances of dying in a reported fire in half! The next thing you need is a Home Escape Plan. Fire can spread rapidly through
your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the alarm sounds. Everyone in your household should take part in creating the plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes ensuring doors and windows open freely with no obstructions. Remember to maintain these during winter months. Draw a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. Also, mark the location of each smoke alarm. This is a great way to get children involved in fire safety in a non-threatening way. Make sure you practise the plan, once in the winter and once in the summer, and ensure you have a safe meeting place. Repetition ensures that everyone will remember when an emergency happens. This also allows for discussion of safety habits in and around the home. Fire Departments typically run doorto-door alarm check campaigns, school fire drills, as well as manning community booths with fire safety information. Please stop by and talk to the firefighters, at an event or your local station. Remember the fire department is there to educate you in prevention, detection and escape. If you have any questions about a fire safety product or fire safety around the home, please call the Fire Prevention Division at 705-325-9131, ext. 248.
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Seniors Club grows! By: Marylynne White, president of the board of directors Twenty-three new members joined us in September! Membership Chair, Jane Wylie, made the introductions, and they were welcomed with hearty applause. It was our first luncheon of the year, held on September 2nd, and was well organized by Lorraine Brown. (Members volunteer to cook and serve a delicious luncheon on the first Wednesday of each month.) At this meeting we were delighted to introduce Julie Blythe and Suzanne Hamilton from Hamilton Tours. They distributed brochures outlining their
plans for this year’s trips. Darlene Woods, a member of our club, will represent Hamilton Tours at our meetings. The trips this year look terrific. At our second meeting on September16th, Deb Halbot, a most talented photographer, presented many of her photos. They are all so beautiful and interesting. We are off to a great start this year, looking forward to our upcoming speakers, entertainment and our monthly traditions of Comedy Corner, Speaker’s Corner and Moving Time! Welcome back all!
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October 3
Fall Mom to Mom Sale, ODAS Park, 4500 Fairgrounds Rd., from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Buy and sell child-related articles – toys, clothes and craft supplies. Register to be a vendor or get more information by emailing CakeEventsOrillia@hotmail.com.
October 4
Look, See, Paint fall colours. Flex your creative muscles with a walk in Elliott Woods, a 17-acre hardwood forest. Paint what you see with guidance from local artist Jeff Miller. Register for this free event by calling 705-326-1620 or email Tanya@couchconservancy.ca.
October 9-12
Images Thanksgiving Studio Tour - over 30 outstanding artists and crafts people will exhibit their work over the 4 days, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day at sixteen different studios. Wide selection of paintings, pottery, sculptures, jewellery, photography, turned
wood, clothing and accessories. contests and special Coldwater Visit www.images-studio-tour.com shop promotions. Adults only. Meet for complete details. with sister witches on the main street at 6 p.m. October 16 Girls Night Out from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. October 22 at ODAS Park, 4500 Fairgrounds Rd. 5th Annual Orillia and Lake Country $10 admission includes one free Business Expo, 2 p.m. – 9 p.m., drink, finger foods, door prizes, Casino Rama ballrooms. Discover shopping and socializing. Details the benefits of shopping locally. A and tickets 705-325-0353. great opportunity for consumers and businesses to connect. Draws, October 16-18 25th Annual Orillia Jazz Festival, giveaways and special promotions. enjoy a variety of free evening and Free admission. matinée jazz venues all weekend October 22 while exploring the unique SALT (Seniors and Law Enforcement restaurants, shops and attractions Together) meeting 1:00 p.m. – in downtown Orillia. ‘Like’ the 3:00 p.m., Royal Canadian Legion, Orillia Jazz Festival on Facebook for Branch 34, Normandy Room, Orillia. complete information, including a Fraud – recognize it; report it; stop list of venues. it. Refreshments will be available. 705-326-3536 or www.orilliasalt. October 21 Coldwater Witches Walk, 6 p.m. – 9 com. p.m. A ladies’ night out - a night for October 23 – November 8 girlfriends to get together and dress Fall Flavours of Ontario’s Lake up in their ‘witchies’ best. Great Country, 3 course set menu dinner draw prizes. Spooky sights, treats, at participating restaurants.
Experience local flavours created by Lake Country chefs. Reservations are recommended. All details, including menus, will be available at www.ontarioslakecountry.com
October 24
St. Paul’s Anglican Church Bazaar, from 9 a.m. – noon. Bake tables, knitting tables, silent auction, vendors and more. Hwy 169 at Quetton St., Washago.
October 24
Fall Bazaar at the Ramona Hall on Fairgrounds Rd. Doors open at 11 a.m. Great lunch and good selection of vendors.
October 24
Wye Marsh ‘Marsh Monster’ event, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. $5 admission (members and children under 3 are free). Wye Marsh will be overrun with ghouls, ghosts and goblins. Zombie walks, scavenger hunts and more. Visit www.wyemarsh.com for complete details.
Farley Fair Fundraiser
Saturday, October 3rd, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR PET EXPO, BBQ & FUN FAIR Baked goods, raffle table, pet photos and prizes A donation of $12 per family or $6 per person is requested.
Vendor Fair of local pet-related businesses. They will join us in raising money for the Farley Foundation, a charity that assists seniors and disabled persons with limited income in accessing necessary treatment for their pets. Visit www.farleyfoundation.org for more information.
DR. KATHY MARCHILDON & DR. SANDY DRURY To make an appointment or to learn more about our services:
www.lakecountryanimal.com or call 705-326-4800
3843 Soules Road, Orillia
Hours: Mon., Wed., Thur., Fri. 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. • Tues. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m. – Noon • Evening appointments available.
10950 HWY 11 South Severn Bridge, ON 705-689-2291
FALL TIRE SALE EVENT October 10th • 9 am – 4 pm Bring in non-perishable food items and receive an additional $20 off sale price with purchase of 4 tires.
BBQ all proceeds go to charity
CLASSIC CAR SHOW
BIG FOOT INFLATABLE
* Prepaid card is issued by Peoples Trust Company pursuant to a license by Visa Int. Prepaid card is given to you as an award or gift and no consideration, value or money has been paid by you for the card. No cash access or recurring payments. Card valid for up to 6 months; unused funds will be forfeited at Midnight EST the last day of the month of the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply; see MyPrepaidCenter.com/site/Bridgestone-CAN. ^Tires must be purchased from a participating retailer between Oct. 15 and Dec. 15, 2015. Claim form required by mail or through upload at BridgestoneRewards.com. Limit 2 claims per household. See store associate for details. Offer excludes Costco purchases.
INTRODUCING THE NEW
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Order now for Thanksgiving!
Great tasting and perfect for baking.
Roasts • Chops • Steaks • Chicken & more! Fresh Vegetables and Fruits ~ Specialty Items ~ Cheeses, Chutneys, Spreads And Sauces Gluten-Free Selection
Fresh, locally grown
• Bread • Buns • Croissants • Date Squares • Muffins • Sweet Rolls • Danish • Turnovers • ‘Almost Famous’ Butter Tarts • Double-Decker Brownies • Delicious Homemade Pies Relax in our bakery café & enjoy our French-pressed coffee or specialty tea with a fresh bakery item. There are always specials at Canoe Fresh Food Market. Drop in to see what we have for you this week!
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