The Villager 2019 December

December 2019

Knowledge and expertise to guide you through changing market conditions.

Paul Cleary B.B.A. BROKER 705-327-6002

Christmas fire safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Visit

Beware of scams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

paulcleary.com

‘Real’ trees are good. . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Community Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Happy Holidays to all!

By Ellen Cohen It’s the beginning of December. Are you already sick of hearing “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” or “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”?

Is your calendar already filled with dates for lunches and dinners with people you haven’t seen since last year?

Are you starting to perspire about your growing shopping list?

Maybe other things get in the way of your holiday joy. You might feel heartsick thinking about how many Christians have forgotten the religious meaning of Christmas. You see church congregations dwindling. At the same time, we are bombarded with the commercial aspect of Christmas as advertising goes into super high gear. And we know there will be many children who will unwrap an extreme bounty on Christmas morning while many others will unwrap so little.

How do cope with these things and still feel happy through the holidays?

A prescription for this challenge might include waking up tomorrow morning and creating a different Christmas list: a plan to help others. The list could include a visit to an elderly neighbour who lives alone.

Better yet, ask them to Christmas dinner.

Unsolicited, ask a friend if they need help with something or invite them over for a

© Can Stock Photo / monkeybusiness

cup of tea. Donate to organizations that help children or feed families, not just at Christmas but pledge to do so all year long.

As for gifts, reduce the ‘stuff’. Fill those stockings with love and adventure: a promise for a hike in the woods with your grandchild or a day of cross country skiing followed by hot chocolate; a special home cooked meal followed by a Netflix movie and popcorn with your partner; a house cleaning day for your grandmother; a promise to walk a friend’s dog on New Year’s Day.

Christian or not, this season can be joyous for everyone if you help without being asked, include those who are alone in your celebrations, and give more experiences, less stuff.

Enjoy your family and friends and marvel at the wonderful sparkling Christmas lights. Who knows? Even the annoying and repetitive Christmas might be bearable.

On behalf of The Villager, I wish you and your loved ones the happiest and most loving of holiday seasons. Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year!

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3

Everybody wins $5 million grant application submitted As background, The Villager reported in last month’s issue: on October 23rd, council members voted against applying for a $5 million grant that would, if the application was successful, be used to complete the Westshore Recreation Centre. Residents were confused and angry about council’s decision for a number of reasons: council had for years shown unanimous support for the project; tax payer $$ had already been spent to get the site shovel-ready; $2.5 million was sitting in reserve earmarked for the project; and the Westshore community, currently with no hub, is the fastest growing area of the township, representing millions of $ in new development charges and property taxes.

What happened after the October 23rd council meeting decision was swift, wellorganized and enthusiastic community action.

Under the leadership of Westshore resident, Wanda Minnings, and Chair of the Severn Township Culture & Recreation Advisory Committee, Vicki Ball, a community meeting was quickly organized and took place on October 29th.

It was standing room only.

The goal of the meeting was for residents to learn more about the proposed centre; to inform them about the decision of council to not apply for a grant; and to encourage residents to show up in large numbers at the November 6th council meeting.

Wanda chaired the meeting and Vicki presented historical information as well as data and evidence as regards the need for indoor recreation facilities. Representatives

of the builder, on track to build almost 200 homes in Westshore, talked passionately about why a community hub is so important to this growing community. And many residents offered input and asked questions of Wanda, Vicki or council members present.

At the end of the meeting, Mayor Mike Burkett, who was one of three council members who has always supported the application for the $5 million grant, pledged to the residents to do whatever he could to get the grant application back on the council agenda, and to do his best to get the majority of council members to support the submission of the $5 million grant.

The mayor followed through on both promises - and he managed both successfully. In fact, at the November 6th meeting of council a motion to apply for the grant was passed by council.

The crowd in the council chamber, which overflowed and filled the lobby, broke into spontaneous cheering and applause. They were ecstatic.

Staff has completed and submitted the grant application. Word of its success is expected in the fall of 2020.

Chair of the Severn Township Culture & Recreation Advisory Committee, Vicki Ball (left), and Westshore resident and community organizer, Wanda Minnings shown at the township office on November 6, 2019.

Whether or not the grant application is successful, there is no doubt that a clear vision for the future of the Westshore community exists, a vision that is strongly supported by council, the recreation advisory committee and the residents.

Everyone wins.

If you’re planning to attend

Home for the Holidays

St. Paul’s Centre on December 14th Please note: our special guest is Michael Warren!

Tickets are available at the Orillia Opera House Box Office • 705-326-8011

Adults $30. Children under 12, $15.

Or call Danny, 613-398-1160

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4 This aerial concept photo of the Westshore Recreation Centre is published for all Westshore residents who want to see what the result of their community involvement might be.

See story page 3.

From the Publisher:

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

I can’t believe I missed it!

My apologies to Severn Mayor Burkett, all council members and township staff.

The Villager reported on potential traffic lights at Fairgrounds Rd. & Hwy.12 several times over the past few years BUT we did not follow up on the final result.

For the past 9 years – yes, 9 years - the township worked with the MTO and Oro-Medonte Township to get traffic lights installed at one of the busiest intersections in that part of the township.

The lights were installed several months ago!

Thanks to our township’s determination, cars can now move through this intersection from all directions more quickly and, most importantly, safely.

Heartfelt thanks The Villager began publishing in March 2013. Since then, we have asked local community groups, conservancy and nature specialists, our local MP and MPP, the Washago Community Centre, and the township recreation and fire departments to submit articles or information that will help our readers stay current.

It would be impossible to present some of the most important township news without these contributors. Thank you to: Ron Reid, Mark Bisset and Courtney Baker, Rose Petit, Chef Becky Lennerton, Sandra Galloway Crawford, Marylynne White, Pat Harwood, Dianne Kyle, Bruce Stanton and Jill Dunlop.

As well, heartfelt thanks to all residents for their tips, story ideas, photos and community events. Every single time you call or write, you enrich The Villager.

Township highlights of 2019 With only 11 issues a year, The Villager does its best to inform readers about what’s going on in the eastern portion of Severn Township. This is just a quick review of some highlights: Winterfest: the first annual event took place in February at ODAS Park.

The organizer, Chad Cooke, along with many volunteers, presented an incredible inaugural event in Severn. For his initiative, Chad received a coveted Volunteer Service Award from the township. The 2nd annual Winterfest is January 24-26.

Cannabis: with the advent of legal homegrown cannabis in Canada, Severn Fire presented readers with important safety tips. Meanwhile, township officials grappled with how to deal with complaints

about a large indoor grow op and its effects on local residents. We’ll hear more about this in 2020.

Severn budget: the township approved a 2.85% residential tax increase for 2019. This compares to Orillia at approximately 3.25%, Oro at 3.99% and Toronto at 3.6%. Of the total 2019 tax dollars collected in Severn, $6 million will be for road, bridge and culvert reconstruction or replacement.

Parks, trails, public docks: 2019 might prove to be one of the most important years for township recreation improvements.

Every month, Severn’s recreation department reported on the work being done in parks across the township including Continued on page 6

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

Letters may be edited.

5

Don’t be in for a holiday shock!

Check your cords and lights… and other safety tips

By Dianne Kyle, Fire Prevention Officer, Severn Township We are all well underway with our plans for Christmas - getting out the decorations, buying a fresh Christmas tree, or putting together our artificial tree.

Before you start trimming the tree, check your lights. If you are still using an older set, it is time to throw them out and replace them with LED lights which are longer lasting, cool to the touch and reasonably inexpensive. All lights should have the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Check to ensure they are not worn or do not have broken cords.

Always turn off Christmas tree lights before going to bed. And if you are using a real tree, ensure you keep it watered and check the tree often for dryness.

Also, look for tree ornaments that are flame-retardant, non-combustible and non-conductive. If you have small children or a playful pet it is best to avoid smaller decorations.

Other tips for the season: • Cooking: Do not leave the kitchen unattended while cooking. If your pan catches fire, smother the flames by covering it, turn off the heat and leave until cool to the touch.

• Candles: Use flameless candles if possible but if you must use real candles ensure they are in a sturdy holder and never leave them unattended.

• Fireplace: Never burn gift wrappings, boxes, cartons or other types of packing in your fireplace. Don’t hang stockings from the mantel if you plan to use the fireplace. Ensure the screen is in place to protect against sparks. Use only seasoned and dried wood. Never leave it unattended. Place ashes in a metal container and store outside well away from any structure or your home.

• Alarms: Have a working smoke and carbon monoxide alarm in your home

© Can Stock Photo / alexeys

and have a “Home Escape Plan”. Review this plan with your family and overnight guests.

The Severn Fire Department wishes you a safe and happy holiday season filled with cheer and warm memories. Happy Holidays from Fire Chief, Tim Cranney; Deputy Fire Chief, Mark Hatch; Fire Prevention Officer, Dianne Kyle; Administrative Assistant, Karen Campbell; and all the Severn firefighters.

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6 Township highlights of 2019 Continued from page 4 the completion of an accessible pathway in Ardtrea Park and a cycling pump track in Washago Centennial Park.

Pride: for the first time, the rainbow flag was raised in Washago. The event, well attended by both local residents and visitors from outside of the township, took place on June 23rd at the Washago Community Centre.

Fire department: a brand new fire hall, Station 2, officially opened its doors on October 5th, replacing a smaller 50-year old facility. The new facility includes a new 25,000 gallon cistern.

Register now for recreation programs Our 2019 projects are winding down as we prepare for 2020 and if you haven’t registered for some of our programs, now is the time to do it. You can register at three Severn locations: the Washago Community Centre, the Coldwater & District Community Centre, or at the township offices.

A brochure with details and a registration form can be downloaded off the township website www.townshipofsevern.com.

Some of the child and youth programs include The Director’s Cut, In the Mix, Karate, Cooking for Kids, Babysitting, Stay Safe/Home Alone, Little Kickers and Big Kickers.

For adults and seniors, have a look at yoga, seated fitness; super foods, super moves, super you; Zumba; Keep Fit for Bones; and

Tabata Interval Training.

Please note that early registration is needed to secure a spot and to ensure the program will go ahead as planned.

Deadline to register is one week before a program begins.

In other news, the township recently applied for funding for a number of projects including the Washago Community Centre rink boards, and for multi-sport courts for Washago Centennial Park, Marchmont Community Park, and Coldwater Fairgrounds. The largest grant request submitted is for $5 million for the Westshore Recreation Facility. We expect announcements regarding the grants will be made in the fall of 2020.

All programs and facility rentals can be viewed on the Township’s website 24/7.

If you have any program ideas you would like us to try, or if you’d like to talk to us about facility rentals, please contact the township office at 705-325-2315, ext.253.

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7

Happy Holidays!

From the Dan the Wood Man team: (left to right)

Mike, Dwayne, Justin, Dan, Mark, Judy, Matt, John, Tyler and Bailey.

All the very best in 2020!!

From the management team: (left to right)

Owners Judy & Dan and Manager/Supervisor Bailey.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

A Christmas message from Dan The Wood Man: We thought it was about time that we formally introduced our company, DAN THE WOOD MAN to our community. We are a homegrown and locally nurtured business.

We started out as a firewood processing company in 2002 and transformed into a tree removal company in 2008. As we evolved, we added rubbish removal, demolition services and, of course, a small amount of firewood sales!

The company is owned by me, Dan McIntee and my wife Judy. I have lived in this area since 1977 and Judy joined me here in 2001. My daughter, Bailey decided to join our team and hopped on board several years ago. She is now directing the ship.

The company would be nothing without our amazing crew!

Our goal is to provide a professional service by operating safely and efficiently. We take pride in showing up on time and getting the job done as quickly as possible, leaving your property in such a condition that it would be hard for you to tell that we were even there.

If you require any of our services, we would be pleased to drop by and have a friendly visit and provide a FREE quote.

We want to take this opportunity to wish all of our community, clients, family and friends a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Happy, Healthy, Prosperous New Year from all of us at DAN THE WOOD MAN. Sincerely, Dan McIntee

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8

Christmas chai maple hot cocoa Try this easy-to-make, delicious, comforting hot drink over the holidays.

By Chef Becky

Chef Becky Lennerton is proprietor of Black River Food Company and a teacher in our region for Loblaw Companies Limited.

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• Pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom and cloves. Use any combination, to your taste.

• ½ cup of your favourite chocolate chips • 3 Tbsp. maple syrup. Try local Medonte Highlands maple syrup.

• Fresh whipped cream.

METHOD: Combine all ingredients in a heavy, medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a simmer, whisking regularly. Remove from heat. Steep for 5 minutes. Strain into mugs. Top with frothy whipped cream.

For something to make this hot drink a little more ‘jolly’, add an ounce of Collingwood rye.

Wishing you all a magical and safe holiday season.

In loving memory of Laurie “Hepinstall Harvey” A great big thank you to everyone who helped us remember Laurie. The Celebration of Life at the Washago Community Centre was an amazing gathering of family and friends, past and present who all shared our loss.

But knowing Laurie, she would not want us to shed tears.

She would want us to remember the good times, the fun and laughter we shared over the years.

So, thank you everyone for the cards, flowers, food and visits. As well, thank you for the generous donations to the Cancer Society, the Washago Heritage Church, the Washago Community Centre and Soldiers Memorial Hospital.

Although Laurie is not with us, she is always on our mind and forever in our hearts. Laurie loved hugs, so big hugs to all.

Thank you again, The Hepinstall and Harvey families

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10

Club members always helping out It is the festive season and Lions Club members are ready to help where they can.

One of largest events at this time of the year is the Ringing of the Bells by the Salvation Army. It is a critically important fundraiser for them, raising funds that ensure the continuation of the many important services they provide to the community.

Many Lions Club volunteers will be helping the Salvation Army ring the bells. We’ll be stationed at the Washago’s LCBO. Look for us and please give generously.

Another very worthy organization is The Sharing Place Food Centre, an organization that provides healthy food to a full 12% of the community who use the food bank to help feed them and their families. Every donation counts.

You can drop off non-perishable goods or cash donations at the Sharing Place, 95 Dufferin St., Orillia. 705-327-4273. Or you can go to the Lions Hall in Washago on Hamilton Street during the music jams we host: Kathy’s Jam is on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.

Dougie’s Jam is the 3rd Wednesday of each month.

We wish to thank the volunteers of Warm Stitches, our newest Lions project. They continue to create items of warmth for people in our area - handcrafted knitted toques, mitts, scarves, slippers and sweaters. Some of the items have already been distributed to the Jubilee House, the Light House Shelter, to group homes, and to several individuals in our areas.

The members of the Washago and District Lions Club send our greetings to all and wish you a very happy holiday season. © Can Stock Photo / Gitusik

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11

Another great month!

By Marylynne White, President On November 6th, we enjoyed a delicious lunch of rotisserie chicken, roasted potatoes, mixed salad and warm apple pie.

It was incredible! Our lunches are getting tastier and tastier.

After lunch, we honoured our Veterans.

We had a roll call and then watched a very poignant YouTube presentation that highlighted the bravery of our Canadian soldiers. To remember is to honour! They gave their lives for one country, one Canada, from sea to sea.

After a short break, our business meeting commenced. It is always interesting to get an update on activities and finances.

This month many of our members will be attending Urinetown The Musical at the Orillia Opera House. Marianne, one of our members, organizes many of our day trips. We are thankful to her. It also should be noted that Marianne and her husband, Craig keep our senior garden on County Rd. 169 and Muskoka Street, beautiful summer,

fall and spring.

At our second meeting on November 20th, our Birthday Social, we enjoyed an afternoon of various games and bingo.

Bingo is very popular due to the “fun” prizes.

As our tradition dictates, afterwards we got up and moved to some groovy music. Thank you to our tech man, Jim. He always finds great tunes! The November “Birthday kids” were then recognized with a harmonious rendition of Happy Birthday. Coffee, tea and Birthday cake rounded out the afternoon.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 15, 2019 at 2 p.m. The Harmony Sounds and Ukulele Band are presenting a Christmas Concert called “SING NOEL.” It will be held at the Washago Community Centre. Many of our Washago Seniors Club members sing with The Harmony Sounds and also play in the Ukulele Band. If you are looking for a wonderful afternoon of beautiful Christmas music, you are invited to attend. It is a free will offering concert.

Mark your calendars for December 15th at 2 p.m. The Harmony Sounds and Ukulele Band will present a Christmas Concert called “SING NOEL.” Hope to see you there.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and many blessings for 2020!

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Technology and the internet are wonderful. We can easily communicate with our loved ones, do our banking and buy goods.

Unfortunately, criminals find it just as easy to use technology and they are out to scam you, to get your personal information, hack your email, your social media accounts, or even your entire system.

At this time of year when we might be busier than usual and less cautious, maybe more emotional and vulnerable, don’t give scammers any opportunities to rip you off.

Advice from authorities: Hang up. Delete their email. Ignore their post.

Examples of scams: • Email from Yahoo or Rogers: “How are you? I haven’t heard from you in a long time.” Don’t reply. Delete this email.

• Email from someone claiming to be a grandson. They need money desperately, maybe to get out of jail or get home. It is not your grandson. Do not send money.

• Phone call saying Social Insurance # has been used and to call immediately. This call is completely bogus. Just hang up.

• Phone call saying you owe taxes. Pay now or go to jail. Hang up immediately. It is not the CRA. You will not go to jail.

Never send money. Pay your taxes through the bank only.

• Tech Support scams. Usually they claim to be from Microsoft and tell you your computer is at risk. Then want access to your computer. Just hang up.

• Bank or other institutions emailing to confirm your information or telling you they are making changes and need updates from you. Do not reply.

• Online dating – know the site you’re using, get referrals from friends. Never give out personal information, especially your address, and never send anyone $$ for any reason.

• Social media quiz – most often just a data collecting scam.

Don’t bother – and don’t share.

Beware - new scams are invented every day. If you get a phone call or an email, receive a social media post or message you believe is a scam, simply do not respond to them.

If you have been scammed, or want to learn how to identify a scam, visit www.ontario.ca/page/report-scam-or-fraud.

Or if someone has attempted (and not succeeded) to scam you, call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1‐888‐495‐8501 or visit www.antifraudcentre.ca.

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13

Thank you from the Washago Community Centre Corporation Effective January 1, 2020, Severn Township will assume the operation of the Washago Community Centre.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the many volunteers who have operated the community centre since its inception in 1956. Except for closing in 2006 for major construction regarding structural repairs, the service to the community has been uninterrupted.

In addition to the volunteers, we thank the grant contributors, the generous donors, and the general public who supported our fundraising events and attended the programs we offered.

Since 2006, the above mentioned sources of income have contributed to the purchase of kitchen equipment and extensive furnishings necessary to operate the building, and contributed to the maintenance costs, including furnace repairs. The inventory purchased and contributed to the community centre totals approximately $170,000.00. We are very

proud of this accomplishment and those contributions will now be passed on to the Township of Severn as of January 1, 2020.

The volunteers, too numerous to name, have made the centre a very successful operation and a hub of the community.

They have been passionate about the need for recreation and they have ensured that there was a social centre for the residents of Washago and area. They have worked diligently to provide the community a The volunteer board of directors will pass the remarkable service.

We thank you and wish Severn Township torch to Severn Township management at the beginning of the New Year. much success in the future.

A reminder to readers, advertisers and content contributors:

• 7 0 5-71 7-03 2 2 •

The Villager does not publish in January.

• th

e v ill

a g e r p r ess @ r o g e r s. c o

m•

DEADLINE FOR THE FEBRUARY ISSUE – MONDAY, JANUARY 13, 2020.

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Volunteerism helps keep Simcoe North strong

By Jill Dunlop, MPP Simcoe North When we look at reasons to volunteer, to both of which rely on the generosity of understand why it is important, it’s not only volunteers who help patients and their about the possibility of the impact we can families in some of their most vulnerable make in the lives of those less fortunate or in need, but the role it can play in making us more tolerant, empathetic individuals who are contributing towards the global community. The truth is volunteering will bring a world of rewards you might never have expected.

In Simcoe North alone there are dozens of organizations providing services to youth, seniors, in agriculture and small business, the arts, victim services, and many more that support children and families in so many ways. Each of these organizations work diligently to make a difference in our communities and most of them require volunteers.

This past fall there was an increased investment by the government of over $3 million to both Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital and Georgian Bay General Hospital, © Can Stock Photo / McIninch

moments as well as assisting staff with their daily activities.

And, although the new funds will promote sustainability of hospital operations and help to protect existing core services, among other initiatives, volunteers are and will always be an integral part of the operation.

Whether we recognize those who volunteer in hospitals, or the hundreds who volunteer at the many incredible frontline agencies and organizations who look after so many needs in our communities, we know they give their time because they want to. And they know what they’re doing is important. They ask for nothing in return.

The dedication to their work is why I was proud to contribute to the celebration of 65 outstanding Simcoe North volunteers at the 2019 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards in November. Inspired by the nominees, I encourage anyone of any age to consider volunteering over the holidays, into 2020 and years beyond.

Happy Holidays to all our wonderful patients and their ‘parents’!

Please keep your pets safe during the holidays.

Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia are poisonous to cats and dogs.

Candles, tinsel, electrical cords, and broken ornaments are dangerous.

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‘Liberation 75’ tulips planted in Washago Canada, The Netherlands and tulips are forever connected.

The connection began in WWII when Dutch Princess Juliana and her family were forced to flee the Nazi invasion. The Princess and her two young daughters sailed to Canada where they were given a safe haven and a warm welcome in Ottawa.

By the time the Princess and her family returned home, the Canadian armed forces had already played a very significant role in the liberation of the Netherlands from the Nazis. For this reason, and because of the Princess’ shelter in Canada, a solid and meaningful bond between the two countries was formed. It continues today.

After WWII, the Dutch people expressed their thanks to Canada by sending 100,000 tulip bulbs to Ottawa, followed by 20,000/ year every year since. The result is that every spring, Ottawa has had a most magnificent display of tulips. People from all over the world visit Ottawa every year for this display

This group of Washago volunteers came out in the cold and snow to plant seventy-five very special ‘Liberation 75’ tulip bulbs. Inset photo of tulip from liberation75.ca. of tulips, perhaps the finest in the world next to The Netherlands.

Next year a new and very special tulip will bloom in Ottawa and around the country.

The ‘Liberation 75’ tulip recognizes 75 years since Canada’s involvement in the liberation of The Netherlands. It is expected that over one million of these special tulips will bloom in our country in 2020.

Washago will not be left out of this special display. On November 8th, in the cold and snow, nine hearty community members planted seventy-five ‘Liberation 75’ tulips adjacent to the Washago garden on County Rd. at the edge of the village.

Look for these beautiful orange tulips in the spring of 2020.

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17

Fur coats for the winter

By Ron Reid We humans may shelter in our warm houses during the long nights of winter, but wild animals don’t share that luxury.

Many birds migrate southwards to avoid the colder months, but wild mammals that remain active depend on their fur and a few other strategies to survive the winter.

Smaller mammals take advantage of the excellent insulation properties of snow by spending most of the winter in a network of tunnels beneath the snow layer. As spring approaches, you can often see the remnants of this under-snow network snaking across your lawn.

Larger mammals such as deer and foxes prepare for colder weather by a gradual fall moult of their coats, replacing worn fur with a version that is thicker, longer and denser to significantly improve its warmth. Typically, this coat is retained for the full year, but in springtime the animal sheds much of its fur to prevent overheating in the summer.

A few mammals, however, complete a full moult in both spring and fall, so that they can change colour from their summer browns to cold-weather white that blends in with a snowy landscape. Weasels do this, maybe because this camouflage helps with their hunting efforts as well as making them less visible to predators. But the master of hiding in plain sight on winter snow is the snowshoe hare.

Snowshoe hares, often called snowshoe rabbits or varying hares, transform almost completely from a brownish summer hue to pure white, with only a small tip of black on their ears. This common mammal travels on top of the snowpack in its search for juicy bark from shrubs and small trees, assisted by large furry feet which act as “snowshoes”.

You would think that a rabbit-sized mammal wandering about on top of the snow would make an easy meal for hungry predators, and indeed, snowshoe hares are a favourite food source for hawks and owls, foxes, coyotes and wolves, and lynx and bobcat. But snowshoe hares have an ace in the hole – when they sense a predator is nearby, their instinct is the freeze in place, making their soft furry outline almost invisible. When they do have to run, they can

twist and turn and dodge until as they seek shelter in a thick cedar swamp.

Of course, many are caught, especially young inexperienced animals. Which is a necessary part of the process; otherwise we would be overrun by rabbits. For many years, since the beginning of the fur trade, wildlife managers across Canada have noted that both snowshoe hares and Canada lynx

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populations move up and down on a regular 10-year cycle. This raises the classic “chicken and egg” question – is that cycle the result of fluctuations in the hare population, or is it the result to changes in predation pressure?

Recent studies have concluded that the key factor is the amount of predation by other mammals that drives this cycle. Very few hares starve to death; almost all are eaten. The pressure of many predators likely causes stress among the hares, causing smaller litters and declining populations.

Faced with poorer hunting, the predator populations then decline as well.

Studying how one species affects others is a fascinating part of natural history, and one of the best examples features an animal that is common in our own backyard.

A regular contributor to The Villager, Ron Reid is a natural heritage consultant and the co-founder and former executive director of The Couchiching Conservancy. He has written more than 30 magazine articles and co-authored three books. He lives in Washago with his wife, Janet Grand.

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A most spectacular scene of the Couchiching Conservancy’s Grant’s Woods in Severn.

Eternally grateful

By Courtney Baker Although you are reading this close to the holiday season, I am writing this only two days after Remembrance Day while on a train home from the Nation’s capital.

As my trip progressed, I couldn’t help but think of war and all Canadians who paid the ultimate price. They had no chance to see home again. I wondered: if they did have a chance to come home, would they recognize ‘home’ today?

The train passed wetlands, farmlands and forests that I imagined look largely as they would have 70 years ago, but I also

Even though my train ride reminded me how much has changed, it also allowed me to see that what we still have is so beautiful and so precious. It is also fragile. It’s why the Couchiching Conservancy works every day to maintain healthy habitat and wildlife corridors. It means that ‘home’ remains as recognizable as possible to the descendants of those lost in war so many years ago.

Today, as we and our kids and our grandkids prepare for the holiday season, perhaps some of us will make the connection I did, between the past and today, and the future. And perhaps you will pass on your love of our land and pass on some of what you know needs to be done to protect our land, all of the rolling hills and forests and sparkling water.

Here’s to the place we call home, the land many of our forefathers/mothers protected, and to the next generation who want to live in peace and harmony with nature.

On behalf of the Couchiching Conservancy, I wish you a special and loving holiday season.

passed industrial areas and subdivisions that have changed the character of the land completely.

Our nation is revered for its wildlife and vast spaces. Unfortunately, in parts of Canada, we are losing some of this too quickly. In Ontario, wildlife habitat is threatened and the list of species facing some level of threat has now reached 237. Of those, 115 of those species are now considered endangered.

As the train I’m on travels closer to my home, cutting through so much beautiful landscape, it is clear to me that we have so much that is special. And, although much of our land and forests have changed over the years, I still feel grateful to those who came before us and to their descendants of today because many of those long gone and current residents have done everything they can to protect our land.

Of course, our organization is also grateful for their conservancy, and we are also so grateful of the support The Conservancy has received. Thankfully, we live in a region where community support is clear. The success of our conservation efforts are possible because of this support, from our funding and sponsorship partners, members and volunteers.

Courtney Baker is the Administrative Assistant at The Couchiching Conservancy, a non-profit land trust dedicated to protecting nature for future generations. To learn more about conservation efforts in our area, visit www. couchichingconserv.ca.

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19

Real trees – the green choice One of the biggest decisions Ontarians face during the holidays is whether to purchase a real or a fake Christmas tree.

Yes, fake trees can be more convenient (if you have the space to store one), but consider the aroma, presence and environmental contribution of a real Christmas tree – the green choice.

“Real trees are 100 per cent biodegradable and continue to provide benefits after the holidays are over,” observed Rob Keen, Forests Ontario’s CEO. “Fake trees, on the other hand, will eventually end up in landfills, where they take an extremely long time to break down.”

In fact, buying a live tree supports local businesses: the retailer and the farmer.

More than 500 tree farmers produce and sell over a million Christmas trees every year on Ontario alone. What’s more, the trees provide a home for wildlife, reduce land erosion and the tree farms themselves are carbon sinks: they soak up the carbon dioxide emitted by cars, planes and our homes. Every acre of planted trees produces oxygen for 18 people daily.

After the holidays, your discarded Christmas tree may look sad and bare without its lights and ornaments, but it is getting ready for its next phase of life.

Most Ontario municipalities offer curbside pickups or drop-off depots for your used tree. For instance, each year more than 100,000 Christmas trees are collected in Toronto and chipped into 3,700 tonnes of mulch to be used as compost in city parks.

In places like the Royal Botanical Gardens near Hamilton, discarded trees are placed along shorelines to mitigate the erosion of waterways and creeks, where they also provide habitat for fish and wildlife.

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December 2 Chicken Pot Pie Lunch, includes beverage and dessert. Prepared by the Severn Bridge Women’s Institute. 12 noon. $8. Severn Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Southwood Rd., Severn Bridge.

Fern at 705-687-4462.

December 4 Hollywood came to Orillia and shot the movie, Who You Know.

Join the cast and crew at this film’s premiere at the Orillia Opera House. 7:00 p.m. All tickets $10. www.orilliaoperahouse.ca.

December 7 Coldwater Santa Claus Parade.

Events from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Free skate at the Coldwater Arena 4-5 p.m. Candle Light Walk at 5:30 p.m., followed by the parade at 6 p.m.

Meet Santa at the Mill. Scavenger hunt.

December 7, 14, 21 Horse and Wagon Rides, from 1:003:00 p.m. in downtown Orillia. Hop aboard free, explore the downtown and get into the Christmas spirit.

December 13 6th Annual Ugly Sweater Bowling Party at Orillia Bowl, in support of the Orillia Sharing Place Food Bank.

All ages and skill levels are welcome.

For bowling times and more details visit www.thebigevent.ca.

December 14 Come out to the Coldwater Legion for our fundraising Meatroll draw.

Have a chance to win for only $1.00.

Call 705-686-3388 for more details.

December 15 The Harmony Sounds and Ukulele Band of Washago and surrounding area, present a Christmas concert, “Sing Noel.” Washago Community Centre at 2 p.m.

Come and enjoy an afternoon of beautiful Christmas music. Free Will Offering.

Refreshments will be served.

December 28 Birding for Kids, in partnership with the Orillia Public Library. Join in for story time and activities at Grant’s Woods. Weather permitting, outdoor activities so please dress appropriately. Best for ages 6 and

under but all families welcome. Free event but registration required. www.couchichingconserv.ca.

December 31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Coldwater presented by the Coldwater Lions Club. Free family skating from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at the arena includes hot chocolate and hot dogs. Fireworks at the Coldwater Community Centre at 10:00 p.m.

December 31 Fabulous, family-friendly New Year’s Eve Bash at Rotary Place. Interactive games, face painting, rock climbing, skating and more. 5:00-8:30 p.m.

Overflow parking: free, accessible shuttle from the Costco parking lot. Call 705-325-4530 or visit www. calendar.orillia.ca December 31 New Year’s Eve celebration from 9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. Potluck.

Entertainment by Len Murphy.

Coldwater Legion, 705-686-3388.

January 1 New Year’s Levee. Join us for food, our famous Moose Milk and live entertainment by Even Steven. 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the Coldwater Legion.

January 6 Chili Lunch, includes beverage and dessert. Prepared by the Severn Bridge Women’s Institute. 12 noon. $8. Severn Bridge Community Hall, 1035 Southwood Rd. Fern at 705687-4462.

January 9/16/23/30 Mixed Dart Nights, which run through March, will start on Thursday, January 9th and run every Thursday. Severn Bridge Community Hall. $8.00. For information call Blaine at 705-6892291.

January 24-26 Severn Winterfest 2020. The 2nd annual event at ODAS Park.

Demolition derby, dance, ice bar, roller skating, igloo village, pancake breakfast, walking trail, giant snow slide, wagon rides and polar bear dip. www.facebook.com/ events/353648272195240/

Deadline to submit

February Community Events: Monday, January 13, 2020

Mark Your Calendar 2020 Ontario Winter Games • February 27 – March 1 Athletes will compete in 27 sports, centralized throughout Orillia, Barrie, Oro-Medonte, Rama and Severn. 3,500 athletes, coaches, officials and dignitaries will participate.

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