The Villager - October 2023

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OCTOBER 2023
• VILLAGER
CREATIVE ENDEAVORS
THE SANDO SHACK
VENTURES
LIBRARY OF “THINGS”
Learn how to grow your business by attracting happy customers through compassion, trust, and authenticity in your marketing. Marketing With Soul Find out more at lobomedia.ca

CREATIVE Endeavors

Meet MJ POLLAK, currently an art lecturer at Lakehead University Orillia Campus. In her free time, MJ practices painting and photography and exhibits in various galleries in Orillia. MJ studied at Ontario College of Art, the Banff School of Fine Arts, and the Juilliard School, after which MJ was faculty in the Theatre Department at The Banff School of Fine Arts. Following that MJ worked as a free-lance set and costume designer. As well, as MJ published a novel, Summer Burns, with Insomniac Press, and has had several short stories and small pieces featured in other publications.

MJ settled in Orillia in 2018 and continued to pursue creative endeavors. As well as honing her skills in painting, MJ has been practising photography, inspired by the natural beauty of the area. Much of her work focuses on her love of the outdoors.

Upon arrival in Orillia, MJ very quickly got involved with the arts community in the city. She was on the board of the Orillia Fine Arts Association for four years, until it folded into the Orillia and District Arts Council, where she is now Visual Arts Director.

She also sits on the City of Orillia Art In Public Places Committee, where she has been overseeing exhibitions at the Stack Gallery. And she is an administrator for Urban Sketchers Orillia, organizing many outings where people get together to sketch in designated locations.

MJ has twice been nominated for the ORAH Emerging Artist Award. She placed first in the 2022 Sustainable Orillia art contest. Her Hippie Van design was selected for the Orillia Streets Alive exhibit celebrating 60 years of the Mariposa Festival, and as well her designs have been chosen twice in juried competitions for Oro-Medonte Art Trees.

The Villager | Oct 2023 3 In Pursuit of
MJ can be contacted through the Orillia and District Arts Council
Much of her work focuses on her love of the outdoors.

Publishers

Jiun Liao and Mikaila Bolzonello

Art Director

Marleen Walz

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From The Publishers

Fall is here! Christmas is near, and we are starting to decorate the house for Thanksgiving/ Halloween. Our daughter has been talking about wanting to be a ghast from Minecraft for months now, and we’re still racking our brains about how to make this costume.

Our social media feeds are full of recipes and pictures of golden-browned turkeys, root vegetables roasted to perfection, creamy mashed potatoes and of course, the quintessential pumpkin pie (my favourite).

And all of this recent holiday energy has transported me back to last year. I remember how stressful things were, trying to get multiple holidays working at once.

Make sure we buy plenty of food for Thanksgiving, have enough candy for Halloween, and buy gifts for Christmas before all the good stuff is on backorder. The constant moving of furniture and decorations around.

This is all on top of the regular stressors of work, finances, kids being sick, etc.

At some point we start hoping things end quickly so we can hop in to bed early and just end the day, but it’s only 10:30 a.m. and the Toronto cousins that were supposed to pick up grandma haven’t even left their house yet.

I think we get drawn in by the allure of a perfect holiday season: decorations, gifts, family gatherings, and of course, the food. We are enticed by the promise of a picturesque October and an unforgettable Thanksgiving.

But reality often doesn’t match expectations. That got me thinking about how we celebrate October and Thanksgiving, what I consider the start of the end of the year holiday season. Are we too focused on creating a picture-perfect image that we forget to give ourselves a little grace?

Do we prioritize appearances over substance?

I think it’s important to remember that while having a beautifully decorated home and a mouth watering spread at our dinner table can add to the festive mood, they are not what truly makes holidays special.

The real essence of this season lies in gratitude, love, and togetherness. The joy of being with our loved ones, sharing stories over a warm meal, and expressing our gratitude for all that we have.

Holidays shouldn’t remind us of stress.

This year, I want to focus on creating memories that last longer than an Instagram post. I want to take that beat and be truly present. Of stepping away from life for a little bit and just have a day to be together with the people I care about.

Let’s make this October and Thanksgiving about the real deal - love, joy, and gratitude. Thank you for reading The Villager. Happy Thanksgiving and a spooky Halloween. Mikaila

© The Villager Magazine All rights reserved. No reproduction by any means or in any form may be made without prior written consent by the publishers. On our cover: MJ POLLAK
4 The Villager | Oct 2023
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The Sando Shack:

A Culinary Dream Come True

Tucked away just off Highway 11 between Severn Bridge and Washago, you’ll find a culinary gem that has been winning hearts and palates alike - The Sando Shack. The Sando Shack is not just a place to grab a bite, it’s a dream manifested.

Their lives were not always easy, having grown up on welfare, Carleton faced his fair share of struggle. Yet through it all, one thing remained constant - his love for food. It was more than sustenance, it was a way of life. “Food is dear to my heart. It comes from the heart”.

The gastronomy journey was shaped by nostalgic memories of toasted cheese and

Their Motto? Serve good food to good people, straight from the heart.

tomato sandwiches from childhood, and inspiration from his grandmother’s kitchen. His favourite thing to cook? Fusion cuisine, a skill honed during his time in Vancouver under the guidance of his food mentor, whose wisdom he still seeks to this day.

So they took a leap of faith. They decided to create something unique. “We always wanted to have a restaurant,” they confessed, but added that they weren’t going back to the industry until they had their own.

But what sets The Sando Shack apart isn’t just the food. It’s the ethos. The community spirit. The personal touch. It’s about crafting an experience that feels more personal than any regular restaurant. “This is ours. We’re doing it”, they declare with pride.

Even cold they taste good”, they chuckle.

Their motto? Serve good food to good people, straight from the heart. This dedication has earned them numerous accolades from previous endeavors, including award winning fries, chicken wings and fish & chips.

Yet despite all the accolades, they remain humble and grounded. “We’ve built it from zero. From Ontario. Our home.”

Their menu is a testament to a 20-year culinary journey, each dish reflecting everything they’ve learned along the way. And people are loving it! “Even cold they taste good”, they chuckle. The Sando Shack is more than just a food truck – it’s the Canadian dream personified. It’s a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of community.

It’s about giving back to the people who helped them open their doors. “We wouldn’t be open if not from the community willing to help,” they admit.

The Sando Shack isn’t just about good food. It’s about community, authenticity, and a love story that continues to unfold, one delicious meal at a time. So, next time you’re in the Severn Bridge/Washago area, drop by The Sando Shack and let them serve you a slice of their dream.

6 The Villager | Oct 2023

An Idyllic Hobby Farm Experience

Welcome to a slice of southwestern paradise nestled on an sprawling 50 acre canvas of natural beauty. This remarkable custom built home boasts of 3 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, all with impeccable décor. The main level beckons with its open layout accented by 3 walkouts to the wrap-around deck, inviting the outdoors in. The fully finished lower level is a haven for equine enthusiasts, complete with fully fitted tack room. It also offers a complete guest suite, large family room and reading room. In-floor heating throughout the home and double garage. Meandering through this property is a network of established trails amid nature’s splendor of serene privacy. Asking $1,700,000. MLS#40480775

705-325-1366 or 1-800-498-8775 www.leah-cavanagh.c21.ca | leah@leahccavanaugh.ca

ONTARIO-WIDE FINANCIAL • Tracy Green, Mor tgage Broker/Owner Level 2 Ontario-Wide Financial FSRA Lic# 12456 120 Mary Street, Orillia, ON L3V 3E2 Phone 705-259-3974 or 1-888-307-7799 Fax 416-921-1754 www.ontario-widefinancial.com Small or large shor t-term funds & bridge financing available. Money to lend for farms and rural proper ties for any purpose! We offer lending for farms, working farms, hobby far ms including full acreage, r ural proper ties, cottages, vacant land and multiple parcels of land, out of town proper ties anywhere in Ontar io |Bank tur ndowns, proper ty tax ar rears, income tax ar rears or mor tgage ar rears no problem. Self-employed, bad credit , bankr uptc y or in- consumer proposal |60-80% of the value including full acreage on a case-by- case evaluation We also offerlendingfor regular residential& commercialfinancing. Mor tgages to Satisfied C ustomers for over 25 years Saturday – Sunday 8 am - 2 pm Fully licensed under LLBO We offer phone or online orders for takeout/curbside pickup Daily Specials on Facebook, Instagram or by Phone www.captainsgrilldiner.ca • 705-619-3467 1287 Madison St., Severn Main Entrance off Carlyon Line, in Front of Silver Creek Estates • ENJOY OUR HEATED PATIO • GRAB ‘N GO MEALS Shop at our Countr y Store
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Villager Ventures: The Fall Fair Feature

We are so fortunate to live in a region that has ample foliage that really showcases the changing of the leaves and farms with pumpkins galore. The atmosphere is autumn overload in these parts!

This Villager may live for summer, but fall is a close second on the seasonal list of favourites. In our region, the last month boasted multiple Fall Fairs across the region. Of course, we had to get in the on the action. While we couldn’t attend EVERY fair this year, we have made a point to try new ones each year.

Last year, we hit up the Coldwater Fall Fair. It has been running since 1893! This is one of the biggest events to happen in the village and it is a whole weekend affair! Midway rides, vendors, seeing the farmers in action, the demolition derby and MORE! Coldwater goes big for this event and it is truly a community affair!

This year, we opted to check out the Orillia Fall Fair! Beautiful sunny weather on September 8th and 9th made for a great event, which were the same days as the Severn Bridge Fall Fair and 18 other fairs across the province. Orillia hosted their event at ODAS Park, alongside the Farmer’s Market. This was the 173rd event, which is actually older than the city of Orillia itself. The Fair has run for every year except 2020 as a result of

the pandemic and during World War II- talk about longevity! Event organizers were disappointed this year to not be able to offer a midway due to the exorbitant cost of $100,000. However, it was still a fantastic, fun, family outing. There was free face painting, a birds of prey educational session, the demolition derby, countless vendors, and many delicious treats. The Exhibitors’ Hall featured floral arrangements, intricate and delicate quilts, freshly grown produce and children’s crafts…all displayed in the quest for a First Place Ribbon! The livestock are always a treat to see- baby cows are adorable! My kids loved seeing friends from the community and school. All in all, a beautiful weekend to be outdoors and supporting our local, small businesses and farmers.

For us, the Fairs represent some of the many reasons we love Simcoe North. The sense of community, the genuine excitement in the air, seeing kids having fun in a safe environment, and celebrating our farmers and agricultural societies.

Did you make it to a Fall Fair in your travels this autumn season? Next year, make sure you check out at least one of the several Fall Fairs in our region: Ramona, Severn Bridge, Orillia, Coldwater, and the Oro World’s Fair!

8 The Villager | Sept 2023

Action

is W H A T We Do

Today, I held hands with my 7 year old niece and walked in the Climate Strike in Orillia. Organised solely by youth over 100 people gathered together in the fight to end fossil fuels, advocate to governments at all levels to take critical action on climate change for a brighter future.

Any engaged environmentalist can tell you how hard you have to work to protect land, oppose environmentally destructive policies and educate the public to keep our Earth habitable. You must master patience, persistence and tenacity in equal measure and this precipitates disproportionate burnout in the environmental community. This unending clash is in the news daily in Ontario as communities campaign across the province to protect Ontario’s Greenbelt, the largest of its kind on the planet.

No matter where you stand on the Greenbelt issue, we can all agree to the basics; the Greenbelt was set aside in 2005 for farming, recreation and the environment; healthy food, clean water and protected green spaces, and now we have found it is vulnerable to development. Despite its importance to a healthy Ontario, and the wisdom that laid it down, other pressures are at play and putting these provincially significant lands at risk.

The greenbelt is in danger.

the Greenbelt was set aside in 2005 for farming, recreation and the environment; healthy food, clean water and protected green spaces, and now we have found it is vulnerable to development

The function of a land trust like The Couchiching Conservancy is to own or steward the land our organization deems vulnerable, or valuable; not in dollars, but in ecology. The philosophy of a Land Trust, is that when we take ownership of land, or add a conservation easement to the title, we have taken it out of circulation. There will never be a debate about Grant’s Woods, the Adams or Sweetwater Nature Reserves being developed because they can’t be. It’s done, they’re protected, and the land is resting.

As owners and stewards who have helped protect almost 15,000 acres of land locally, The Couchiching Conservancy is ensuring a healthy legacy for these lands, forever. No controversy, no mass organizing, no

opposition. Just a safe space for life to thrive. Every time we protect a new nature reserve, we move on to the next one, because we know we are in a race for the environment against the pace of development. We no longer have to mobilise every twenty years to keep it safe. In order to support our work your party lines don’t matter, all that matters is that you think our natural heritage and way of life are worth protecting.

The antidote to despair is action, and action is what we do.

The Villager | Oct 2023 9
Courtney Baker is Office and Acquisition Coordinator at The Couchiching Conservancy, a local land trust dedicated to protecting nature for future generations. www.couchichingconserv.ca

The Library of Things:

Discover a Fascinating World Beyond Books at The Orillia Public Library

Who says libraries are just for books? The Orillia Public Library offers a treasure trove of borrowable items for all ages and interests. From DIYers to baking aficionados, party planners to fitness fanatics, and kids to seniors - OPL has something for everyone!

Get Fit, Have Fun

Health and Fitness fanatics, rejoice! You can borrow Pickleball, Disc Golf and Spikeball kits, Nordic Walking Poles, Happy Lights for those gloomy days, and a White Noise Machine for a peaceful night’s sleep!

Devotees of DIY

Are you Itching to hammer out a home improvement project, yet find yourself big on ideas but short on tools? OPL has you covered with a handy Laser Level, a well-stocked Tool Box, and a high-quality Stud Finder. Say goodbye to crooked shelves and uneven pictures!

Baking Bliss

Step up your baking bravado! OPL’s baking selection is a sweet treat indeed, featuring a Cake Decorating Kit, Cookie Cutters, Springform Cake Pans, and whimsical Cake Moulds in fun shapes like dinosaurs and flowers. Your next batch of treats is (almost) guaranteed to be Instagram-worthy!

Puzzle Your Way to Happiness

Puzzle enthusiasts don’t miss out! Borrow a puzzle and get ready to dive into hours of brain-teasing entertainment.

Kid-Friendly Fun

Kids will adore popular Nintendo Switch games, Adventure Kits tailored to themes like family game night skateboarding, as well as Launchpad educational tablets pre-loaded with engaging content for hours of (cleverly disguised) learning.

Party Central

Planning a party or get-together? OPL has the essentials to make your event a hit. Grab a Karaoke Machine for a night of musical merriment, a Portable Projector for outdoor movie nights, or even a Bubble Machine to add some whimsy to your celebrations.

Embrace the Outdoors

Nature lovers can seize the day with Wye Marsh Family Day Passes and Ontario Parks Passes. Explore the great outdoors without breaking the bank!

Stay Active Seniors

Our Vitality Kits offer movement-based TaiChi and Yoga for seniors, while senior-friendly devices like a Full-Page Magnifier ensures you can enjoy your favourite books with ease.

10 The Villager | Oct 2023
The “LibraryofThings” is another example of the evolving role of libraries in our lives. It’s not just a place for books; it’s a hub of discovery and community engagement. So, the next time you’re at OPL, don’t just check out a book – check out a new adventure!

Orillia Vocal Ensemble

Orillia’s “Pay It Forward” Choir

The Orillia Vocal Ensemble (OVE) is an adult community choir dedicated to the joy of singing together and raising funds for local charities. The OVE was formed by founding Musical Director, Roy Menagh, in 2011 and, after a pandemic pause, continues under the current direction of Blair Bailey.

The OVE vision is simple: a partnership between the arts, businesses and local organizations to the benefit of the whole community. Every year, local business sponsors cover the cost of OVE concerts. To date, sponsors for this 2023-24 season include John Mayo and the December 16th “concert sponsor,” Thor Motors.

This generous support from the business community makes it possible for admission to all OVE concerts to be free. However, during each concert, a free-will donation to a designated charity is requested of the audience. The Christmas concert will raise funds for the Sharing Place Food Centre. Since 2011, with this format, the OVE has raised over $150,000.00 for local charitie s.

The OVE rehearses every Tuesday evening, 7:30 – 9:30 at St. Paul’s Centre. Membership fees are $125.00 per half-year term or $250.00 per year. Secondary and post-secondary students are welcome and pay no fees for participation. The choir also has a policy of subsidizing or waiving fees based on individual financial need.

Another initiative of the Orillia Vocal Ensemble is the Roger Andrews Memorial Scholarship. This fund was established by Kathy Andrews in the name of her late husband, Roger Andrews, the founding president of the OVE. Annually, an aspiring student pursuing a post-secondary education in Music/Vocal studies receives a $500 grant to help pursue their educational and career goals. Each year’s scholarship recipient is invited to perform at an OVE concert.

Please Note: Requests from local charities for a fundraising concert in the Spring of 2024 are now being accepted through the e-mail listed below the article

Our current scholarship recipient, Matilda Wilson, pictured with OVE section leader Anne South, is completing her Music Therapy degree at Wilfred Laurier University. Matilda continues to sing with the OVE and will perform at the December 16th concert.

If you love to sing and this sounds like a choir you would like to be part of, come out to the October 3rd rehearsal and see how it feels! Arrive early to meet choir members and pick up music.

For more information on the Orillia Vocal Ensemble visit orilliavocalensemble.com or e-mail orilliavocalensemble@gmail.com

The Villager | Oct 2023 11

ODAC: Summer in Your Park - A Huge Success!

Entertainment and activity included:

• The Old Dancehall Players

• Flailing Shillelaghs

• Ronnie Douglas

• Alex Andrews Rose

• Jakob Pearce

• Mike and Cassandra Dobransky

• Miriam Goldberger and dance movement

• Charlotte and the Dirty Cowboys

• Sammy Johnson

• Eat Your Art by the Sharing Place

• Quammie Williams Drumming and a host of others.

Wednesday evening. What to do? You might traipse to Tudhope or Couchiching Park for some activity. Or – you could enjoy some evening entertainment right around the corner – in your neighbourhood park. This was the concept for Orillia Summer Nights, initiated in 2022 and repeated this year in six local parks.

Bringing activity and entertainment to our neighborhoods was the brainchild of the Orillia and District Arts Council (ODAC) in partnership with the City of Orillia Office of Economic Development, Culture, and Tourism. With the abundance of local venues, why not bring some activity directly into the various neighbourhoods?

ODAC brought on Sukhi Kaur to coordinate the programs on site. Christine Hager was instrumental in solidifying the programs alongside Jacqueline Surette.

ODAC is looking to gain input on 2024 Summer Nights. We hope to hold a town hall style gathering in each ward to look at what neighbours would find interesting and entertaining. This would inform our planning with the City. It would also allow us to incorporate the diverse ethnic and cultural communities in our growing communities. Input and ideas can be shared at ODACconnections@ gmail.com or to your ward councillors.

Check out orilliaartscouncil.ca for upcoming events and for Orillia Summer Nights 2024.

12 The Villager |
Sept 2023
All
Kaur
Mike Bailey * Now Orillia Recreation, Youth and Cultural Services Division
photos courtesy of Sukhi
and
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Affordable Home Ownership Program

Unlocking Homeownership Opportunities in the County of Simcoe

Becoming a homeowner is a dream cherished by many, and as I mentioned in our September 2023 issue, one that most people feel is unobtainable. As promised, I have been hard at work speaking with as many people as I can, looking for ways to help make finding a home more affordable. I am going to start with home buyers. I realize this problem extends far beyond purchasing a home, but this is where we will begin and continue to expand on information as we move through this topic together. The focus for this issue will be the Affordable Home Ownership Program through the County of Simcoe.

The program is designed for Simcoe County residents who are currently renting and aspire to purchase and maintain homeownership but might face financial barriers when it comes to the initial down payment.

The heart of the Affordable Home Ownership Program lies in its down payment assistance. The program offers up to 10% of the down payment required, with a maximum cap of $50,000. This financial boost is provided at the closing of the deal, and the funds are transferred to your lawyer in trust.

It’s important to note that homes must be purchased within Simcoe County and the assistance is solely directed towards the down payment, easing the initial financial burden of acquiring a home.

To ensure the program’s effectiveness and fairness, there are certain restrictions and guidelines in place:

• The program’s funds cannot be combined with the Federal Homeownership Program.

• The property you intend to purchase must be your primary residence, and

you cannot own any other properties. However, the program permits you to rent out a room or have a secondary suite rental unit within your home.

• You must be a current resident of the County of Simcoe to apply, and there is no specific time limit for residency.

• Multiple borrowers or combined families are allowed to apply, provided that all applicants meet the program’s criteria.

One of the most common misconceptions is that you must be a first-time homebuyer to participate in the program. However, the County of Simcoe opens its doors to a broader audience. If you do not currently own any properties, you are eligible to apply, regardless of whether it’s your first home or not.

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial step in the home buying process, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t have to be for the program’s maximum purchase price. This flexibility allows you to explore a range of housing options that fit your financial situation.

The County of Simcoe Homeownership Program offers a 20-year forgivable loan, a unique feature that sets it apart. If you reside in your home for 20 years without refinancing for an amount exceeding your original mortgage, no repayment of the loan is required. At that point, the program’s second mortgage will be removed from the title of your property. You do have the ability to refinance your first mortgage while participating in the program. This can be a valuable option if your financial circumstances change during your homeownership journey. Just be sure to confirm with the program office.

The way this loan works is, after securing your mortgage to purchase your home (first mortgage) the $20,000 is registered on title as a second mortgage.

An amazing feature of this program is the absence of monthly payments towards the provided loan. However, it’s important to understand that certain situations might require repayment. Each situation is unique, so make sure to contact the program office for personalized guidance in such cases as bankruptcy, the sale of the property, refinancing etc.

Additionally, you have the option to voluntarily repay the loan at any time, regardless of the reason. The discharge calculation involves the original loan amount, capital appreciation, and legal fees.

The Affordable Home Ownership Program is a valuable resource for residents who are ready to take the leap into homeownership but face financial barriers. By providing down payment assistance and flexible repayment options, this program opens doors to the housing market, empowering individuals and families to achieve their homeownership dreams. I encourage you to reach out to me or visit www.simcoe.ca/SocialHousing/Pages/ How-to-Apply-for-the-HomeownershipProgram for details and more information. This is absolutely a program worth exploring.

The Villager | Oct 2023 15
The Affordable Home Ownership Program is absolutely a program worth exploring!

Chef Melanie Robinson’s Honey Parsnip Apple Soup

Method

• Chop, peel and organize all ingredients before starting soup.

• In a large sauce pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add in the butter and oil. To that, add in chopped garlic and onion and cook approximately 5 minutes until softened.

• Add in chopped and peeled apples, parsnips and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Add all the spices, nutmeg, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder and chopped thyme to the pot, cook for one more minute.

• Add stock and apple juice to the pot. Cook uncovered for approximately 45- 60 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.

• When the vegetables are soft, blend all ingredients with a blender or using a stick blender to puree.

• Add the heavy cream and honey and stir into the soup.

• Add salt to your taste. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more until you are satisfied, same for pepper. To serve, add a drizzle of honey and thyme petals.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted Butter

2 tbsp olive oil

6 gala apples (about 1 1/2 pounds, peeled, cored, cut into 1/2-inch cubes)

2 cups onions (chopped)

4 cloves chopped garlic

2 tbsp chopped thyme

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp onion powder

1 tbsp garlic powder

2 pounds parsnips (peeled, chopped)

4 cups vegetarian broth or chicken

Broth

4 cups apple juice

1 cup 35% cream

½ cup honey

16 The Villager | Oct 2023
Chef Melanie is the owner of Eclectic Café and Catering in Orillia. They use high quality seasonal ingredients from local farmers to produce their amazing dishes.
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October Events

A HIGHLIGHT OF COMMUNITY EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

--- KIDS & FAMILY ---

October 2, 12:00pm

SEVERN BRIDGE COMMUNITY HALL

Ham and Scalloped Potatoes Lunch, includes beverage and dessert $12

1035 Southwood Rd. Severn Bridge

October 14, 2023 4:00pm

WASHAGO LIONS ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST

Come and enjoy a dinner of BBQ sausage cabbage rolls and other Bavarian snacks. Live music starts at 5:30pm with the Brass OomPah-Pah Band plus live music by the Outcast. Admission is $10 and food extra to admission. 4343 Hamilton St, Washago

October 14, 2023 11:00am - 2:00pm

RAMONA HALL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

FALL BAZAAR 2023

Luncheon, Bake Sale and Craft Sale. Don’t miss this great day! Huge array of draws and prizes. 2212 Fairgrounds Road, Washago

October 21, 2023 4:00pm - 7:00pm

RAMONA HALL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY

FISH DINNER

Eat in or takeout. Delicious crispy beer battered Haddock, served with tartar sauce, fries and homemade coleslaw - $20. A licensed bar will be available. Come and enjoy!

2212 Fairgrounds Road, Washago

--- ARTS & CULTURE ---

October 6 @ 10:00 am - October 9 @ 5:00 pm

2023 IMAGES THANKSGIVING STUDIO TOUR

Celebrating 40 years! The Images Thanksgiving Studio Tour takes place over four days from October 6 to 9. This free self-guided tour takes you through the beautiful rural landscapes of Oro-Medonte, Horseshoe Valley and along the Lake Simcoe shoreline to Orillia.

Oct 13-15

ORILLIA JAZZ FESTIVAL

Arts Orillia presents a three day celebration of music, dance, & storytelling at the Orillia Opera House

2212 Fairgrounds Road, Washago

Friday , October 13th, 7:30pm

ORILLIA OPERA HOUSE, HOLLY COLE

Arts Orillia presents Holly Cole for one night only at the Orillia Jazz Festival! Do not miss her award winning talent and playful charm! This is a must-see-critically acclaimed performance.

Saturday , October 14th, 7:30pm

ORILLIA OPERA HOUSE WORLD JAZZ ASYLUM

Arts Orillia presents Lance Anderson for a dynamic CD release concert in his home town of Orillia. He’s sharing the stage with talented and inspiring musicians William Sperandei, Quammie Williams, Simon Wallis and and an ensemble of fabulous Jazz dancers.

Sunday , October 15th, 3:00pm

ORILLIA BRASSWORKS ORILLIA OPERA HOUSE

Arts Orillia presents Brassworks playing alongside Orillia’s Youth musicians. Do not miss this inspiring afternoon of seasoned players and our next generation of Jazz lovers in performance together on the Orillia Opera House stage

Sunday , October 15th, 3:00pm POP-UP CONCERTS

Come and visit Orillia in beautiful lake country. In addition to these mainstage events at the Orillia Opera House, during the Jazz Festival Orillia’s downtown will be pulsing with intimate concerts at our finest participating restaurants and businesses, including but not limited to: The Common Stove, Couchiching Craft Brewing Co., The Lucky Labrador Public House, PICNIC , Provenance Commissary and Alleycats Music.

October 14 1:00pm-5:00pm

AN AUTUMN MARIPOSA III

The Mariposa Folk Foundation has slated Saturday, October 14th for Autumn

Mariposa III, an open-air afternoon concert featuring four popular musical acts. Performers and audience members will have seating under a large tent and have the option of bringing their own camp chairs. This is a licensed event and a food vendor will be on-site.

ODAS Park, 500 Fairgrounds Road, Township of Oro-Medonte

--- OUTDOORS ---

October 1 10am-1pm

PASSPORT TO NATURE: PAINTING IN THE WILDLANDS

Join Doug Cooper for a 3-hour outdoor acrylic painting workshop. Participants are asked to bring their own painting supplies and dress for the weather as it will go rain or shine. Alexander Hope Smith Nature Reserve, Washago

October 20, 21, 27, 28

GHOST WALKS ON THE LEACOCK MUSEUM GROUNDS

Ghost Walks on the Leacock Museum Grounds is back! Join one of our spooky tour guides to learn about the haunted happenings on Old Brewery Bay.

50 Museum Dr, Orillia

October 20 6:00pm-9:00pm WITCHES WALK

Get your brooms out! On October 20th, Coldwater welcomes all witches & sorcerers to town for our Witches Walk! 6pm-9pm, Ages 19+

The Coldwater Mill, 1 Mill St. Coldwater

For more events happening this month make sure to visit our digital calendar!

villagermagazine.ca/events

18 The Villager | Oct 2023

Delicious Turkeys

We are taking order for fresh turkeys! limited supplies are available. We also have a supply of excellent quality frozen turkeys.

CANOE stocks all of your Thanksgiving Dinner needs!

Freshly Brewed!

Ser ving only our Premium

Fresh

Vegetables & Fruit

Green Tea Latte

Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Shag Fog, Chai Tea Latte,
Take-out Sandwiches Freshly prepared Ask for panini press. • PIZZA • SALADS • RESERVE THANKSGIVING BAKERY ITEMS
us by Tuesday, Oc tober 3rd at noon or come in and see what ’s available. Our bakers will be replenishing the shelves as fast as they can right up to Thanksgiving.
Call
a great meal with a variety of produce!
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FRESHRESERVEYOURTURKEYTODAY!
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