The North Simcoe Community News - April/May 2012

April /May 2012

—photo by Laura Proctor

All the news from all around...here

In this issue:Spring Springs...

Renewal

Van Gogh’s Sunflowers

Bee By The Sea

Singing the Blues

Walls...

Wildlife photographs

Extra long naps

Gift of dentistry

Tennis anybody?

Investing...

Music Festivals!

Economic growth... or not?

A diaper record!

Rotary newcomers

In the field...

2 - NORTH SIMCOE COMMUNITY NEWS - April/May 2012

Independently owned and Operated

Your North Simcoe Realtor

www.NorthSimcoeHomes.com —photo by Laura Proctor

NORTH SIMCOE COMMUNITY NEWS - April/May 2012 - 3

Spring Has Spr ung! B y A n n a P r o c t o r

Gotta love the weather this March break! Now this is

Spring! Lovely! We are all moved into our new house

and loving it. It is very peaceful here with lots of nature and trees around and quiet except for the trains- which I happen to love! Spooky and in the distance, they are a very romantic backdrop to my day.

Our move went very well with lots of amazing helpers, who not only cheerfully lugged belongings hither and yon, but stayed to put things away afterwards, definitely going above and beyond the definition of helping us move! The result was, at the end of the day everything was put away and we all enjoyed a lovely lasagna dinner courtesy of yet another good friend! What a wonderful experience the whole thing was.

So now we are here and enjoying all the new surroundings, people and places. The weather is just an added bonus for getting to know everyone and everywhere, and putting this issue of the paper together has just been more of the same as people write in with happenings in their churches, community centres and villages.

As usual in North Simcoe, everyone has come out of the woodwork-or the snow- and there is lots going on to celebrate the return of the good weather! Check out our Coming Events column and arts and entertainment pages for lots of great things to see and do over the next couple of months. In this issue we highlight as well two great music festivals coming to our area this summer; the venerable grand dame of the folk music scene, Mariposa

Folk Festival, and the one year old newbie, the Raise the Roof Festival in Washago. Both great festivals with awesome music, vendors, food and fun, one just a little smaller but still with an awesome lineup and tons of fun for the whole family! Please come and check them both out!

Easter is coming with its own array of events, the Kiwanis Music Festival follows

shortly in both Barrie and Orillia, and lots more fun stuff to see and do as we swing into high festival season in our area. Do come out to our local events, support our local community groups and definitely our advertisers who are all local businesses who are worthy of our patronage! Happy Spring and see you out and about in North Simcoe!

Where to Find Your Local NewsColdwater ......................................... page 19Dalston ............................................... page 26Eady .................................................... page 29Edgar/Clowes .................................. page 10Hawkestone ....................................... page 11Oro Station ........................................ page 28Shanty Bay .......................................... page 26Sugarbush .......................................... page 27Warminster ......................................... page 30Washago ............................................. page 28

Oro-Medonte.................................... page 15Arts & Entertainment ............... page 22-23Kids........................................................ page 25Coming Events ................................. page 14Past Tense .......................................... page 21

HAPPY READING!

Congratulations Sudoku Winner!

Congratulations to Lisa Dumas of RR#2 Orillia, who is the winner of this month’s Sudoku! Lisa can call 705-689-6370 anytime to arrange to pick up her prize. Congratulations Lisa and good luck to everyone this month!

Find It Winner! Congratulations to John McDermott of Orillia - for finding all the correct answers and having his name drawn! John, your cheque is in the mail! -If you didn’t win last time... try again in this issue!

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Now I want to live in a city that has canals instead of streets. Well, maybe some

streets; but at the very least, equal in number. Yes. I’ve been in Amsterdam for a week. It feels like a true ‘other world’, and even when you walk the streets for hours (daily!), you always have a canal in sight, or the river Amstel, and you realize the healing power of water, anew. It never rained, but you do go inside, because of a few paintings you may have heard of. Rembrandt, Reubens, Van Dyke, Van Gogh…

s o u l - b o g g l i n g . Again, there it is in front of you…the real thing. My daughter explained that the reason

Van Gogh’s Sunflowers were disappointing is because of a chemical used in the yellow pigment. It fades, is turning green, and will continue to darken. So enjoy your reproduction!

Our host suggested there were more bicycles than people, which was easy to believe. Bicycles of all types, simply combined with light-rail and cars and pedestrians. Take note, Rob Ford? Friendly people, lot of beer, and I am searching for an authentic recipe for Dutch

Apple Tart. Help! Almost cake-y with raisins and dates and cinnamon and nutmeg and cloves and divine. But wait…then I went on to Norwich England on the KLM City-Hopper, and the daffodils and crocuses were up! Uh-huh.

The Cathedral was overwhelming. Norwich is known for having a pub for every day of the year and a church for every week of the year. Until the 1800s (?) it was the second largest city in England. Proximity to the North Sea is a big plus. The sombre thud of the breakers, the birds singing constantly, and some splendid music, made for a very full four days. And I still don’t get paid as an international correspondent. But I still feel incredibly privileged. And the

pastor of the oldest Lutheran church in the Netherlands (1600?) is now wearing a Tax Me ... End Poverty button!

Soooo…back to work, renewed. I think this is the issue in which I remind you of the Orillia Kiwanis Music Festival, running from April 10 to May 1 throughout Orillia. This is your chance to be the audience that every performer needs. Music is communication without words (mostly) and you have to have people there to communicate to. There are all ages of ardent musicians, and you will love it. Today it is minus something large, but in two days it will be plus 13, and that’s the glorious awakening for everyone. Easy to smile,eh?, and be grateful we are here.

SUDOKU All entries must be received by 5pm on April 27th We will draw from the correct entries and the winner will receive a prize!Not sure how it works?Find the missing numbers so every row, column, and 3x3 region has no repeat numbers.

Example: (last month’s solution)

GOOD LUCK!

9 5 7 2 6 4 1 7 5 3 8 2 8 5 4 8 2 3 1 7 9 8 9 7 1 7 1 6 3 7 2 4

1 2 9 4 6 3 7 5 83 4 6 5 8 7 9 2 15 7 8 2 9 1 6 3 49 1 7 3 5 8 2 4 62 8 4 6 7 9 3 1 56 3 5 1 4 2 8 9 78 6 2 9 1 5 4 7 37 9 1 8 3 4 5 6 24 5 3 7 2 6 1 8 9

Complete the puzzle and mail or fax your answer along with your name, address and phone number to: 7871 Pineridge Road RR1 Washago, On L0K 2B0. Fax:705-689-9225

BAYSIDE FINANCIAL

DOUGLAS T. SHAW RPA, CFP, P.Mgr Accountant/Financial Planner

Bus: (705) 737-5220Fax: (705) 734-9759

E-Mail: [email protected]

20 Morrow Rd Barrie ON L4N 3V8

b y D o r e e n S i m m o n s

Answer the four questions below & email your answers to [email protected] by 5pm on April 27th, 2012.All answers are based on content in this issue of the NSCN. Include your name, phone number and address. We’ll draw one winner from all the correct submissions! One entry per person.

1. What is the name given to “a still life painting designed to deceive the spectator by giving an illusion of reality”?

2. What did Joe Vermaire look for on the endangered species list?

3. What is Aunt Philly’s Toothbrush rug made from?

4. Why did people place photographs face down during the Victorian era?

FIND IT! and WIN!$20 PRIZE!sponsored by:

websites - brochureslogo design - business cards

promotional material

The Deadline for our June/July Summer issue

is May 2nd for mailing on May 25th

visit www.NorthSimcoeNews.com


O r o - M e d o n t e S k a t i n g C l u b N e w s- s u b m i t t e d

Huronia Funskate Heroes

Congratulations go out to all of the Oro-Medonte Skating Club Starskaters who competed at Huronia

Funskate. Our largest competitive team ever traveled to Orillia on the weekend of January 22 and 23 to put on performances to be proud of. Following is a list of our competitors and their placing. Congratulations girls, you represented your club well and made us all proud. Introductory A Group 5 – Madison Bolyea 2nd

Introductory A Group 7 – Jessica Beamish – 8th

Introductory A Group 8 – Marley Gronfors 8th

Introductory B - Ella Bradley 4th

Introductory B – Cassandra Barnstaple 8th

Pre-Preliminary B Group 2 – Brooke-Lynd Devoe 3rd

Pre-Preliminary B Group 3 – Grace Beaman 2nd

Pre-Preliminary B Group 4 – Paige Beamish 1st

Pre-Preliminary B Group 4 – Natalie Coutts 4th

Junior Bronze B - Kristina Lawrence 9th

Introductory Team Elements Group 1 The Oro Snowflakes: Payton Cassolato and Abby MacFarlane 4th

Introductory Team Elements Group 2The Blades of Steel: Madison Bolyea and Serena Fitchett 1st

Pre-Preliminary Team Elements Group 1The Oro Stars: Cassandra Barnstaple, Ella Bradley and Grace Beaman 4th

Pre-Preliminary Team Elements Group 2The Flying Fists of Fury: Natalie Coutts and Brooke-Lynd Devoe 2nd

Cranberry Capers CompetitorsAfter a busy weekend of competition in Orillia, six of our skaters hit the highway up to Bala the following weekend to compete in Cranberry Capers. Again our girls showed their Oro pride by giving their all in front of an enthusiastic crowd of supporters. Following is a list of our competitors and their placing. Great job girls!

Introductory B Group 4 – Jessica Beamish – Bronze StandardIntroductory C Group 2 – Marley Gronfors – Bronze StandardIntroductory C Group 3 – Paige Beamish – Silver StandardPre-Preliminary B Group 1 – Cassandra Barnstaple – 5th

Pre-Preliminary B Group 4 – Natalie Coutts – 5th

Pre-Preliminary B Group 5 – Grace Beaman – 5th

B r u c e S t a n t o n M POn February 15, I was pleased to stand

with my colleagues in Parliament to vote on Bill C-19 (An Act to Amend the Criminal Code and Firearms Act), or as it is more commonly known, the Ending the Long-gun Registry Act.Scrapping the wasteful, ineffective long-gun registry has been a priority for both myself, and the government, since we took office in 2006. From the day it was introduced, the long-gun registry has been a massive boondoggle, costing taxpayers billions of dollars, without doing anything to reduce crime or improve the safety of our communities. The registry was particularly unfair to rural Canadians, where farming and hunting are part of our way of life. The fact that two NDP MPs from rural areas broke ranks to vote along with the government on this legislation speaks to the importance of this issue in such areas.I must point out that, even with the end of the long-gun registry, Canada will continue to have stringent licensing requirements for anyone who wishes to own a firearm. Additionally, the end of the registry will have no impact on the regulations in place with respect to restricted or prohibited firearms. Having passed through the House of Commons, the Bill will now be vetted in the Senate before the Governor General gives it Royal Assent, enshrining it in law. If you would like more information on this Bill, or any of our government’s initiatives relating to public safety, please contact me, or visit www.publicsafety.gc.ca.

R e n e w a lB y L e s l i e V a r s a v a

I ache with painAs you struggle through our thoughtless assault.

Though diamonds glisten on your surface,The ugliness of our waste lurks within.

The haunting cry of loonsRemind me of times past –

Of natural abundance,Your children rejoicing in the dance of life.

And strangely, I feel hope.Water lilies rise from the murky depths

To bloom beautifully in the sun,And I am reminded that darkness can be overcome.

“Listen,” rustle the birch leaves.“Renewal is possible,

If we return to ancient wisdom.Mitakuye Oyasin – we are all related.”

And then I understand.Your pain is my pain.

We are one.

—photo by Laura ProctorWe Want to know about your community events. Please visit our website or email [email protected]


A s k a V o c a t i o n a l C o n s u l t a n t b y S a r a h - J a n e V a n d e n b e r g

Following Up the Interview to Your Dream Job

In the last article I wrote, you had completed your interview. I mentioned that the final two pieces of the interview are: 1) the Thank You note and 2) the verbal follow-up.

For over twenty years, I’ve been recommending to job seeking individuals that they do a Thank you note right after the interview. Although few actually follow this advice, I have heard from numerous employers that this action is often the deciding factor in the decision of who to hire-those who complete the Thank You note put themselves in the lead and get the job when the competition is close.

So, what is in a Thank You Note? Not that much, actually. Basically, you:

9 thank the interviewer for their time and refer to something positive that happened in your interview – some way you connected to the interviewers 9 indicate something about you

that makes you a great fit for their company or some way you can help them achieve their goals and 9 explain how much you are

looking forward to working with/

for them.This note is done IMMEDIATELY

following the interview. If you have great hand writing, you can write it in your car or in the lobby of the business and hand it in to the receptionist right away. If your hand writing is not neat, you go to a computer and send a Thank You E-mail with “Thank You for the Interview” indicated in the subject line. Make no mistake – time is of the essence here – you must do this step immediately following the interview in order for it to be effective.

It is recommended that you send a unique note or e-mail to everyone in the interview. This can easily be done by making sure that you have obtained the interviewers’ business card which has the e-mail address on it.

When the interviewer calls back to advise you of their decision, be prepared. If they are calling with an offer of employment, make sure you know what is your lowest wage you are willing to accept and whatever they offer ALWAYS ask for more – you never know, you might get it. However, you need to have a list of what you have to offer in exchange for the higher wage. This isn’t a question of you need or want more because of your bills. The employer, frankly, isn’t interested in

your bills. They are, however, interested in your skills, so you do need to justify why it would be reasonable to pay you more. Simply say, “I am so excited to come work for you, is there any chance you could raise the offer from $15.00/hour to $15.50/hour because I have exceptional skills in TIG welding quality and speed, so I will be able to get your product out the door more quickly decreasing production time.”

If the employer calls with news that you were not chosen for the position, make sure you ask, “Could you give me some feedback on how to improve my interviewing skills so that I can be more successful in my next interview?” This question does not challenge the interviewers’ decision AND will provide you with some outstanding feedback which you can implement for your next interview.

If the employer doesn’t call by the day they said they would, the very next day is acceptable for you to call them. Let them know you are still interested in the position and wondering if there is anything you could do to assist them in their decision. Employers like it when you show initiative and indicate interest. They want someone who wants them.

Now, you know how to succeed at the interview. Next, it would be useful to look at how to keep a job once you have it. Until then, congratulations on getting your dream job!

Spotlight on Business b y S t e v e C a s t o n

B e e B y t h e S e a N a t u r a l P r o d u c t s

At one time, n o t s o

many years ago, Andrew Wingrove worked in a senior position with a multinational management consulting company. Stationed in the Philippians for a year, he would often travel to Hong Kong. It was there he was first introduced to the remarkable “Sea Buckthorn” berry.

Juice from sea buckthorn berries is popular in parts of Asia and Europe. The berry is very healthy, high in Omega 3-6-9 and 7, is loaded with beta carotene, protein, vitamin E and has many times more vitamin C than oranges! Oil from the sea buckthorn fruit is rich in vitamin E, carotenoids, phytosterols and essential fatty acids, all of which have beneficial medicinal properties for the treatment of internal and topical maladies. (this from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food Rural Affairs website).

Andrew did some research and discovered that the berry was acceptable for importing and planting in Canada. He had always had an interest in biology and agriculture (and had owned a farm property). He acquired trees from Ontario’s first sea buckthorn orchard in

Wingham Ontario and planted his own orchard in Sundridge, Ontario.

Andrew’s father was promoting a honey-based skin cream at the time and was seeing a lot of benefits from his product. Andrew had a sense that by combining the honey and sea buckthorn he could create something quite unique in terms of a nutrition and skin care product.

In 2008, following a year of research, Andrew launched his signature “Bee by the Sea” body cream. Containing unpasteurized honey and sea buckthorn oil the body cream gained many fans. New products have been added over time and include body wash, beauty soap, lip balm and face cream.

Growing the company has been exciting for Andrew. He spends a lot of time on the road, attending festivals, fairs and shows, promoting and educating people about sea buckthorn and his products. “Bee by the Sea” products are available at 200 retail locations across Canada and the States (including Gaudar’s Natural Foods in Orillia). He has partnered with a farmer in St. Thomas Ontario who owns a larger sea buckthorn orchard with 2200 trees and three varieties of the berry. Recently he has made a submission to the “Lion’s Den” television program and is awaiting the news as to whether his company will be featured. Andrew is excited at the prospect of having one of the moguls on the show take an interest and become a partner in his venture.

Visit the Bee by the Sea website at www.BeeByTheSea.ca to find out more about products, availability and upcoming events.

Note: I received two emails from concerned readers after my last article about Toto's Pizza. These readers, friends of Oro Country House Pizza, indicated that my article led readers to believe that Jodi Gray had ceased operation of her business. This was not my intention, as always my aim is to promote business in our area. Oro Country House Pizza is in operation at their new location at the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport on Line 7. —Steve

Kevin and Jennifer Cotter (Sales Coordinator) show off an array of Bee By The Sea products

T h e H o m e o f t h e B l u e sb y S t e v e C a s t o n

On April 16th I will be joining my father-in-law, David, on a two week adventure to the “Land of the Blues”. This is an annual

trip for him, he has some favorite stopping places and visits with friends he has made over the years, but there is always something new... he likes to “go with the flow” and loves to discover new things each time.

Over the years David has asked me to join him many times, he knows I love music and have always had a soft spot for the blues, Elvis Presley, and classic country and western... this year I accepted his invitation.

We will be leaving on April 16th and will be heading down through Kentucky, to Georgia, to Louisiana and to Mississippi... and all points in between. We’ll be in search of “Soul Food” and good music and adventure.

I will be posting updates to my Blog at www.SteveCaston.ca, on the NSCN Facebook page and website and my own Twitter and Facebook accounts. My hope is to capture some video and sound recordings along the way... Check in to join the adventure!


O r i l l ia Co m mu n i t y Gard en sb y J a c o b K e a r e y - M o r e l a n d

Orillia Community Gardens hosts Seedy Saturday on April 14 from 9 am to 12:30 pm at the Orillia Farmers’ Market.

Featuring local seed and plant companies offering heritage, organic seeds and plants for sale, as well as wells full of knowledge and experience.

Orillia Community Gardens will be accepting deposits to our growing seed bank, and will be facilitating seed trades and seed shares for those that have extra and those that have none. Email [email protected] to get involved and for more info!

The gardens are expanding all around us – now is the time to start seedlings for the spring plant, and to be connecting with other gardeners to share tips, seeds and whatever else makes the garden grow!

News from the Radish Revolution - It’s thyme, lettuce Occupy Gardens for World Peas! February 27 was the global day of action to Occupy Our Food Supply, supported in part by world-renowned physicist, philosopher, human, environmental, and food justice activist Dr. Vandana Shiva. Actions took place in over 60 cities around the world. I and about 50 radical gardening friends shared the seeds of a revolution at our first Occupy Seed Exchange in front of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

At a recent sold out lecture by Dr. Shiva at York University, I shared the news of our successful exchange which inspired similar exchanges at the New York Stock Exchange and the (Seed) Bank of America in San Francisco. After receiving question after question from audience members about what we can do to regain control of our food from Monsanto and the corrupt corporate-state, she declared “Occupy Gardens is the answer!” How about that for a celebrity endorsement?

Never feel the need to ask permission to do the right thing. In an age of such gross inequality and injustice, where all life systems are in a cumulative state of collapse, we cannot wait for others to act. We must plant the change ourselves. May 1 is the day of the Global Garden Party where we stop what we are doing and sow the seeds of change, lettuce act in the name of justice. Our

leaders are insincere when they speak about maintaining law and order – unless of course you consider the hunger of millions of children in our communities and around the world both lawful and orderly. I find such a state of affairs deplorable, for when we deprive our young of the basic means of life, health, nourishment and dignity, we condemn them and the future. We can do better. We will do better.

On May 1 join us at your homes, schools, churches, workplace, vacant or underutilized public spaces and plant a garden for peas, equality, liberty and life. Start small, garden somewhere visible, bee in it often, share the bounty with others and the garden will surely grow. There is talk of a radish Garden Party at Queens Park on May 1 – a hunger strike until the garden grows. Our demand? We demand a garden at every school in the Province and free healthy food for every hungry child. Save billions on education and healthcare – simply teach and give our youth the tools to learn and live healthy lives!Email [email protected] for more info or find us on FB “Occupy Gardens for World Peas”. They came flowing like water, with soil and shovels in hands ungloved; they came with seeds and all they’d need to grow, so that no one would go unloved!

There is a Difference

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At a cost that is Fair and Affordable

Providing the best in funeral service care for one’s family

David J. Isaac - Manager

The Simcoe Funeral Home38 James Street E. Orillia 327-0221

email: [email protected]

Thank you to Bob Robertson for submitting these amazing nature photos!


Tr i n i t y Co m m u n i t y C h u r c h N e w s

b y J u d y B u l l

The barrenness of winter is almost over and the promise of fresh beginnings

is soon to come. The humdrum of winter (unless you are a winter fan), only creates a longing for green grass, flowers and sun. More colors than just white, add a warm glow to what is to come.At Trinity, we are working towards fresh starts and new beginnings. Some of our dear loved ones have been promoted on to glory over the winter months and coming close to Spring, we have had the joy of welcoming new babies. We must praise God for the past, and new celebrations of life.On Thursday April 5 at 7 pm, Trinity will be holding Maundy Thursday, which

commemorates the Last Supper and Jesus washing the disciple’s feet. Our Good Friday service on April 6 is at 10 am and Easter Sunday celebration service is also at 10 am. Please come and join us for worship and celebration of new life in Jesus. Our normal Sunday morning services are each week at 10 am. We would love to have you worship with us.Our youth night groups, Fusion and Quest, meet every Friday evening for fun, food and study. Come on out with a friend and take part in something that could become the favorite part of your week.Ladies Bible study is on Wednesday mornings at 9:30 am and Tuesday evenings at 7 pm, is the Mixed Adult Bible study. Come join us at either time for study and fellowship.For information on any event that Trinity offers, check our website at www.trinitycommunity.org for times and details.

U n i t y U n i t e d C h u r c h b y M y r n a J o n e s

“A Small Country Church with A Great Big Heart”

Coming events happening at Unity United Church:April 1, 2012 10amPalm Sunday “What Fools are We”

April6, 2012 7pmGood Friday Tennebrae & Symbols With a Twist

April 8, 2012Easter Sunday Sonrise service 7:45am followed by Hot Cross Buns

Regular Easter Sunday service at 10 am

April 21, 2012 Spud night dinner at 5:30 pm with pie auction to follow. Ticket prices are adults $10 and children under 10 $5. Get your tickets soon! Call 705-527-5579 for tickets-ask for Dianne

Nutrition/Cooking for one or twoHow many servings of protein are required per day for good health? What is a serving of protein?These are only two of the many questions answered very capably by Dietitian, Carolyn Jones at a recent session of Nutrition/Cooking for(One or two), a small interest group established at Unity United Church. All (including men) are welcome to this ongoing discussion group to share cooking tips and nutrition information.Our next session is scheduled for March 22 at 10 am at Unity.

Ongoing Events:Tuesday morning Women’s health club9 to 10 am- All welcome and bring your weights

Wednesday Unity Choir7pm- Enjoy singing and fellowship? Come and join us.

Wednesday Fellowship group2 to 3:30 pm- All welcome for this social time.

Thursday Youth group7 pm-contact Christine van der Weg 705-534-0574

Y o u D o n ’ t H a v e t o F e e l B a d

b y C a n d y P o t t e r

Who has anxiety and depression?She’s a soccer mom, she’s on parent

council, her kids are great and she has a good career but she’s tired and unhappy, a lot, and she feels bad about feeling bad.

She is in university, she’s considered very bright, social and attractive but what most people don’t know is that most evenings she is dealing with debilitating panic attacks, her arms and legs buzz, it becomes hard to breath and she cries uncontrollably. She is afraid that this is going to ruin her schooling, ruin her career, ruin her life.

He is twelve years old, he’s got a great imagination and he’s good at sports, he struggles a bit with reading and writing. He has recently withdrawn from his friends and isn’t doing the things he used to enjoy

anymore. He’s tired of feeling sad. She is a young mom, her two little boys

are the apple of her eye but she feels like she isn’t enjoying them or giving them enough attention because she is constantly noticing things that need tidying or rearranging and she can’t resist the compulsion to do something about it. She feels silly for not having more control.

He is retired, he has money and great kids but he just doesn’t enjoy life as much as much as he used to and he doesn’t look forward to anything. He feels selfish for complaining but he’s just not sure what the point is any more.

She’s fifteen, she’s a good student and she’s pretty popular but she feels anxious whenever anyone wants to borrow ANY of her things. If someone does use her pen, she has to wash it right after. She has washed her hands raw. She’s exhausted by the effort it

takes to hide this from her peers.She is stylish, bubbly and put together

but she won’t go anywhere where they have a cat because when she sees a cat she feels dread and terror. She carefully constructs her life to avoid this.

So who has anxiety and who get depression? These people I’ve described. They don’t stand out, they don’t seem to have much in common, their lives are just regular lives. They’re just regular people doing the usual stuff but some of them carry a burden of perpetual sadness and some of them become debilitated by fear and some of them are constantly trying to manage a low level of worry or frustration.

Anxiety and depression are common. People who are anxious and/or depressed can be our kids, or our sisters, or our best friends, or our doctors, or me or you. Candy Potter is a college professor and a psychotherapist; she provides quick and effective treatment for anxiety and depression. To reach Candy call 705-689-4039.

S i m c o e C o u n t y Museum Funds R aised

— s u b m i t t e d

The Simcoe County Museum will be able to expand its collections and

programming thanks in part to the generosity of the Friends of the Museum, a not-for-profit organization that supports the Museum.

With money raised through fundraising efforts, the Friends of the Museum were able to donate $25,000, which brings their generous donation to the Simcoe County Museum Capital Projects Fund to a total of $50,000 to date. This funding will allow the Museum to continue to grow and deliver interactive heritage programming for children and adults alike.

“Simcoe County Council is very thankful to the Friends of the Museum for their continued hard work and dedication that honours the heritage of

Simcoe County,” said Warden Cal Patterson. “This facility allows residents and visitors to step into the past and see how our ancestors once lived.”

“The Museum is an integral part of this region,” said Friends of the Museum Chair Joan Revie. “The members of the Friends are very proud to be associated with the Simcoe County Museum. We enjoy all that it offers to the area and are very pleased to make this contribution.”

The Simcoe County Museum, established in 1928 by Women’s Institute members Mrs. C.P. Stocking and Mrs. R.A. Sutherland, is now comprised of five gallery facilities with sixteen outdoor heritage and display buildings and a collection of over 30,000 artifacts.

The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.

Don Leigh sent us this great shot of horses on Line 7 that he took on February 12th


A s k A D e c o r a t o r b y L i s a F r e e m a n

If walls could talk…in this issue I’d like to talk

about walls.There are so many options for

covering, treating, colouring, dressing up our walls. Wallpaper is making a big comeback, take a look at the current magazines showing bold colours and graphic patterns, this isn’t the floral with ducky borders we saw a couple of decades ago.

Here are some terms you may read about when sourcing out interesting ways to cover your walls:Chinoiserie: The imitation of Chinese motifs and techniques in painting and decorative arts.Fresco: A painting done in watercolour on a wall or ceiling while the plaster is still wet. Grisaille: Decoration executed in monochrome or near monochrome, usually grey, designed to produce a three dimensional effect.Mural: A painting executed directly on a wall, ceiling or other large architectural surface.

A New York based company, Gracie, www.graciestudio.com, produces beautiful hand painted wallpapers which are interesting to check out for

inspiration. A UK company found at www.surfaceview.com creates unique bespoke murals, really lovely ready to roll murals, prints and canvases with botanicals, and unique photography. Another interesting website for bespoke murals is at www.bespokemurals.com.

Murals can anchor a room’s décor and provide a focal point. The imagery, which often seems to recede, can make a small space feel larger by adding dimension and movement. Think of a small child’s room, a hand-painted tree in the corner stretching up onto the ceiling would add to the feeling of space, the texture of the tree bark and leaves would add interest, the ideas are endless.Pastoral: Pertaining to the countryside, rural, portrays country life, usually in a romantic or idealized form.Trompe l’oeil: An optical illusion, a still life painting designed to deceive the spectator by giving an illusion of reality.Over Sized Artwork: Large scaled artwork is available from very high end to most affordable Google posters. You have countless options in oversizes, they can be made into canvases or framed. I have a supplier who will take any photo and blow it up to any size, creating a custom canvas, think of the possibilities for that large wall that needs something unique. It could be a series of photos from your last vacation, but on canvas, no glare from framed glass, made to size in colour or black and white. This is an easy way to add the wow factor without

the commitment of a custom painted mural.

The most common mistake I see is that artwork, regardless of the medium, is typically hung too high. Hanging pieces at eye level applies in hallways or if you are creating a gallery space. If you are hanging individual pieces of art, the typical eye level is 5’4” from the floor, but if you’re a lot taller, this height of course would be adjusted. When hanging artwork over a sofa, table or chest the idea is to make the art and the piece of furniture look like they are one component, not two separate pieces. Consider them a unit; make them relate to each other.

If you’re really stuck, make a template of the artwork out of paper and tape it up at varying heights. Then stand back and see what looks right to your eye. Templates will really help if you’re hanging a group of pieces or a series of art working with a staircase, it really helps to get the height and spacing correct. Art will enhance your room and fill your rooms with personality! Happy decorating!Send your decorating and home staging questions, including a photo for a more detailed reply to Lisa Freeman, email [email protected] or go to my website at www.lisafreeman.ca. “Like” my Facebook page under Lisa Freeman Interiors for decorating inspiration and promotions.

O r o D i s t r i c t L i o n s S u p p o r t L o c a l I c e R i n k

b y L i o n B o b M u r r a y

President Gord Dixon of the Oro District Lions Club presented Rob Prouty with a donation of $1,000 towards the lighting installation at the Harbourwood community outdoor ice surface at Shelswell Park. This brings the total monies donated towards the lights by the Lions to $2,000.

President Gord has fond memories of playing shinny on outdoor rinks and he made the rink his “President’s project” for the 2011/2012 Lions’ year. The Lions try to support local community initiatives and activities for our young people- the Shelswell park rink was a good fit for both these goals.

Rob Prouty and Gord Dixon

448 LINE 11 South in HawkestoneDon’t miss this charming cottage style home.Just 15 yrs old, it shows to perfection! Open concept kitchen, dining & family room with freestandingwood fireplace. Wood floors,large kitchen centre island, sunroomwarmed by a gas fireplace. Main floor laundry. 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bathsnew shingles, flooring, paint and appliances, 2000 sq. ft., backs onto woodlands. 1/2 km to Lake Simcoe beach and govt dock

MOTIVATED SELLER! $279,000

Directions: Hwy 11 S. to Oro Line 11 head south to Property on RHS.

www.century21.ca/Property/ON/L0L_1T0/HAWKESTONE/LINE_11_SOUTH/448 (visit the website for Open House dates!)

Rod Harth Century 21 Sparking Waters Realty Inc. 705-689-3700


B o d y a n d H e a l t h b y A l i s o n M i t c h e l l R M T

Sore Muscles Need Massage

For all the athletes out there and anyone working on improving their fitness, there have been a few recent studies you should know

about. Whether you want less muscle soreness or you want to become fitter, faster, Massage Therapy can help. We are mythbusting the “no pain, no gain” theory for strength and endurance training.The studies have found that massage therapy after exercise actually creates chemical and physical changes in the muscle.

Massage helps activate genes that decrease inflammation

Inflammation is the process in the body that causes pain and muscle tightness. Many pain-killing medications,

such as ibuprophen, work by blocking inflammation. With medication comes unwanted side-effects,

such as stomach irritation. In addition, it also appears that anti-inflammatory

medication or other techniques to tone-down inflammation, like

ice baths, block muscle repair and growth.

Massage allows the muscle to heal itselfWhen we train, we want to fatigue the muscles so they adapt and become stronger. Fatigued muscles tend to remain contracted and tight. Massage therapy helps muscles to relax and lengthen and reduces their metabolic activity. When the muscle relaxes, it’s not using energy as much and not producing as much waste product. Because the tissue is more relaxed, it’s not compressed and not exerting pressure on surrounding tissues. This means circulation is better. The body is returned to a more optimum state, naturally.

Massage helps stimulate the creation of more mitochondria in the muscles. The mitochondria are energy factories inside the muscle cells. The more “fit” a muscle is, the more mitochondria it tends to have. Mitochondria help the cells take up and use oxygen. The better we can use oxygen, the better our strength and endurance.These combined changes: decreased inflammation, improved muscle repair, and increased production of mitochondria, are beneficial for muscle recovery from exercise and for muscle growth.It is great to be able to share the findings of this research and explain what people have known from experience for some time. These types of studies show that Massage Therapy has real and concrete benefits, beyond relaxation. For more information about massage therapy do not hesitate to contact your neighbourhood therapist, Alison Mitchell, RMT, at 705-353-0122 or through the website www.alisonmitchellrmt.com.

C r i m e S t o p p e r s o f O r o - M e d o n t e C o n t i n u e s t o G r o w

b y M i k e W i l l i a m s

We have been busy visiting organizations within the Township, using our new powerpoint presentation to show how Crime Stoppers works towards making

Oro-Medonte a safer places to live and work. In February a presentation was made at the community hall in Oro Station and another for the Clowes Women’s Institute at the Edgar Hall. Those two groups were enthusiastic. We have accepted the invitation to set up a static display on Friday April 13 at Richard’s Equipment on Highway 93 at their open house.

Family Day found us on the hills at Horseshoe Resort, once again providing the opportunity for skiers and boarders to engrave their equipment for quick return. We would like to thank all those who showed their appreciation for the service by making donations to Crime Stoppers Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka.

Safer Internet Day for 2012 fell on February 7. We may have been a few weeks late, but Crime Stoppers of Oro-Medonte was at the Guthrie Arena on Sunday, February 26 handing out child identification kits and informational materials for parents addressing safe internet use by children.

2012 is the 25th Anniversary for Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka. The Oro-Medonte committee suggested hosting a series of informational evenings for members of the public and the concept was approved by the Board of Directors. The first event will be on Wednesday, May 9 in the community room upstairs at the Zehrs on North Bayfield Strreet in Barrie. The topic for this session will be Identity Theft. There will be two speakers, Detective Constable Eric Savoie of the Barrie Police and Barbara Dobson of Marlin Travel. Learn how to protect yourself from Identity Theft both at home and while on vacation. There will be a draw for door prizes as well. There is no cost for the evening. As space is limited, you need to contact the Crime Stoppers office at 705-726-2237 and speak to our office administrator, Colleen Weise, to reserve a seat.

Crime Stoppers of Oro-Medonte also increased its membership by two, bringing our total membership to ten. If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity that will work to make your community safer, consider joining the energetic, imaginative members of Crime Stoppers of Oro-Medonte. Contact me at [email protected] or by phone at 705-835-5932 or speak to any of our members at events throughout the Township.

O n t a r i o E a r l y Years Programming i n N o r t h S i m c o e


Jarrat Play & LearnMondays10:00 – 11:300-6 years of ageJarrat Hall, 837 Horseshoe Valley Road EastFree of chargerunning now until June 18, 2012, the program will start back up in SeptemberDescription: Come and join this thriving playgroup! It is a drop-in program for families and caregivers with children 0-6 years of age. We’ve got snack, circle time, crafts, opportunities for connecting with other parents, and many other exciting play opportunities! Please bring a pair of indoor shoes and water.

Oro Play & LearnWednesdays10:00 – 11:300-6 years of ageOld Town Hall, Line 7NFree of chargeApril 4 – May 2, 2012Description: Come and join this thriving playgroup! It is a drop-in program for families and caregivers with children 0-6 years of age. We’ve got snack, circle time, crafts, opportunities for connecting with other parents, and many other exciting play opportunities! Please bring a pair of indoor shoes and water.

Oro Family Fun with NumbersWednesdays10:00 – 11:300-6 years of ageOld Town Hall, Line 7NFree of chargeMay 9 – June 13, 2012Description: This program is for families who would like their child to experience success in math. Children will have opportunities to experience and relate to mathematical ideas through play and simple activities. Parents will learn new ways to teach children about how to or how we already do use math in our everyday lives. Who knew math could be fun?! Activities for babies and toddlers will still be available.

Rainbow Music & FunWednesdays10:00 – 11:3018 months – 6 years (younger children welcome)Sweetwater park, Sugar BushFree of chargeJuly 11th – August 29th , 2012Description: Parents/caregivers and children will have fun together with dancing, singing, rhyming, streamers, rhythm sticks, a parachute, balancing buckets, and more! Please bring water for you and your child. Also, be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen!

E d g a r / C l o w e s C o m m u n i t y N e w s

b y P a t r i c i a S h e l l s w e l l

The longer days make us aware that Spring is just around the corner.

Charlie Sheardown and Lynn Hird spent ten warm days in Costa Rica. Joline McLean and friends enjoyed a holiday in Mexico. Charlie and Lena Simpson visited the Dominican Republic. They were surprised when their son, Glen joined them on the same island.Our thoughts and prayers are with the number of individuals in our area who are undergoing cancer treatment and procedures. The Clowes Women’s Institute canvas for cancer annually in the community.An auction sale by Glen Simpson will be held at 1866 Old Barrie Road on April 21 at 10 am. The farm has been sold. The farm was previously owned by Lena Simpson’s parents, Lottie and Percy Bonney. It is the first time for an auction sale on the farm. Lunch will be for sale by the Clowes Women’s Institute.Al Fisher, our rink maker last year, had to undergo surgery in late December. He is progressing well.Clowes Women’s Institute hosted a potluck supper and informative presentation on Crime Stoppers in February.West Oro Baptist congregation enjoyed a pancake brunch following a church service in February.

Coming EventsApril 28 at 1 pm - Bid Euchre Tournament May 12 from 9 am to 12 noon - Bake and Garage Sale June 23 - Strawberry SupperCall Pat at 705 - 739 - 7579 for news or information on events.


O v e r t h e C o f f e e C u p sb y M a r y F u l t o n

The Afternoon Nap

The Afternoon Napper is a civilized person. One who

understands that the cares of the day mount to a crescendo at three in the afternoon, necessitating the need for an hour’s oblivion in order to render that person responsible and cheerful for the evening hours.However, not everyone has this point of view. The subject of the nap came up for discussion at one of our coffee gatherings. The views were varied and surprisingly heated. Many felt guilty about taking time for the lowly nap - even though everyone was retired and had the time. “A nap makes you fit for nothing constructive in the evening hours,” one lady said firmly. “I never take them! A splash of cold water in the face and I’m good for the rest of the day! Once up, you should stay up!”“I only close my eyes for a minute or two,” another offered virtuously. “I don’t even lie down on the couch. I sit up straight with my book and sometimes use the edge of the pillow as a resting place for my cheek.”“I must confess I do nap at times - when my day has been particularly trying,”

another confessed as she held out her cup for more coffee. “But I always set the alarm for twenty minutes. That’s my limit! Then up and at my chores for the rest of the day.” “The trouble with napping is I lie there thinking of all the things I should be doing,” another said. “I may allow myself ten minutes on the couch with a sweater over me. Never in the bed!”I was becomg alarmed. I was the only one who hadn’t confessed my nap beliefs. All eyes were on me. Should I lie? Oh.....why not blurt out the truth! “When I nap I want to get the good of it,” I said. “I doff my clothes and climb under the covers in the bed. I turn the radio on low to block out the sounds in the house. I unplug the phones and warn anyone else in the household to tell any phone or door caller that I am not available and will get back to them. Take their number! The clock is faced downwards with no thought of a get up time....”I looked at the shocked faces and open mouths around me. “But when do you get up?” someone ventured.

“Of course I get up in time for supper - especially if someone else has made it. I just don’t feel you get the benefit from your nap if you have one eye on your responsibilities.” After all...that was the way Churchill took his naps. He fully endorsed it...

Silent Auction Fundraiser for

East Oro Schoolb y D i a n e R o s s

HAACA is hosting a Silent Auction for East Oro School at the Hawkestone Hall Sunday

April 29th from 12 to 3 pm.East Oro is working hard to have an outdoor structure/classroom. We have a wonderful supportive parent base at our school but realize with being a small school we need extra help from the community. Any donations for our silent auction would be greatly appreciated and can be dropped off at the Village Gallery in Hawkestone by April 10th.

Please come out for a day of fun on Sunday April 29th

Haw kestone New s b y R o b Ta l a s k a

As I sit down to write this article, it’s hard to think that winter has

come and possibly now gone. No big winter blizzard. No big snow falls, and the worse of all, no ice on Lake Simcoe. This is only the third time in the last century that the main lake did not freeze over. The last time was 2002 and before that 1931 so should we be concerned that this has happened twice in the last ten years? For those of us who like winter sports it sure made for a lousy season of snowmobiling, skiing and ice fishing along with other great winter activities. The town was very quiet with minimal snowmobile and ice hut traffic. I guess now we have the mayhem of Smelt Fishing season to look forward to.

With the next couple weeks promising some great Spring weather with double digit temperatures in the forecast, at least I can look forward to getting the boat in the water and the Harley back on the road. This morning’s thunderstorm is certainly a sign that Spring is here, and the great thing about living in Hawkestone is that there are always some amazing events to look forward to, as well as past ones that helped fill the gap that this winter left behind, and this year is certainly no exception.

The Hawkestone Pub Nite in March

sold out to a full crowd of 80 people with 22 Dart Teams participating in the evening. Unfortunately my family and I were vacationing in beautiful West Bay, Roatan so we missed the event, but I have heard from several accounts that it was a great night of fun and Karaoke. The first year winners of Duncan Gordon and Steve Clark came back to win the event again this year so as the two time champions, they are the team to beat next year. Start practicing your dart throwing skills and come on out next year. Steve was also the lucky winner of the 50/50 taking home $110 so a fun night for him for sure. Amy Gourley and her singing ladies won for best Karaoke act and won a town favourite, apple pie from Apple of My Pie. The event earned a grand total of $1,300 to contribute to the operation of the Hawkestone Community Hall to make another successful HAACA effort.

The Hawkestone Kids Club held another delicious Pasta Dinner Night on February 3 to a sellout crowd and satisfied two sittings with a delicious pasta dinner. Mamma Mia - Jennifer Alton and a group of former and current Kids Club members and supporters delivered the meal to a happy crowd of diners.

Easter is just around the corner and with that comes the Eighteenth Annual Easter Egg Hunt held in the Hawkestone Community Park on Saturday April 7. It’s time to dig out the old egg basket and bring the kids out to this fun family event. Every year we get a great crowd

in the park and with any luck, Spring

will be in full bloom this year to make it a great day, so we hope to see you there. Sign up your kids in the store the week before the event; cost is $2.

On April 21 the Community Pancake Breakfast and Egg Race floats through town again. This is one of my favourite events as I get to flip all of the pancakes. In previous years I have flipped over 400 flapjacks and this year I am hoping to break the 500 mark so come on out for a great event and opportunity see friends and neighbours again as Spring unfolds. Make sure to get your ticket for the Easter Egg race this year (available through HAACA members) as there are sure to be some great prizes as in past years.

It never ceases to amaze me how a small town like Hawkestone can drive such great activities to keep a strong sense of community and fellowship. It is the commitment of a strong core group of people that keep the events and momentum going and they are always looking for fresh ideas, event support and volunteers so come on out to the events this year, join in on the effort and be a part of something great. We are all so fortunate to live in this amazing community and participation makes it that much more fun. I look forward to seeing you at the events, drop on by for a pancake and say hi and let’s hope for a great Ontario Summer to make up for the winter that never came.


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F r o m t h e To p o f t h e H i l lb y J o e V e r m a i r e

Courteous Absenteeism

I’m jittery from too much coffee. I sip from my mug

and watch the steam drift from it like wind driven snow moving across a frozen lake. The early morning air is unseasonably warm for the beginning of March. I shift my bare feet to a dry spot on the back deck and look out past the knuckle wire fence which borders the back yard. Clusters of dry and brittle ragweed are entwined in the fence’s grid work like soldiers heaped on razor wire. Patches of crusty snow, speckled with dirt, sulk beneath splayed branches of spruce. The sky is overcast, stained with varying shades of grey as low fast moving clouds, heavy with Great Lake’s moisture, race towards the unseen horizon. A squirrel from just beyond the fence chatters in protest at my proximity to the bird feeder laden with sunflower seeds. It awakens Aspen, sleeping beneath the deck. He croaks a bark from deep in his throat; a lazy attempt to defend his territory.

“Easy, boy. Don’t strain yourself,” I say. I close my eyes and breath deep, working to

calm myself but the caffeine and warm air, heavy with overtures of decay from the receding winter, act as catalysts to my anxiety. I open my eyes and turn to the kitchen window where my reflection fights for a foothold on the dusty surface. It will soon be time to start a barrage of spring cleaning but not today. Today is for coffee, speculation of the future and lazy dogs. A blat from a car horn, not the short beep-beep of a hello or good bye but the sharp long extended blare that signals irritation shatters my serene moment. In that instant I have a story for this paper.

What has happened to the courteous Canadian driver? I have Googled through the endangered species list and do not see them

there. Am I too late? Could they already be extinct? I truly hope not.

When I moved down to Central/Southern Ontario from Northern Ontario, I noticed that people drove differently here. They drove faster, more aggressively and if you didn’t embrace this kind of mentality behind the wheel, you could get stuck at the exit of a Canadian Tire parking lot for quite some time hoping for someone to let you into the seemingly endless line of Main Street traffic. Well, twenty some years have gone by and with that maturity and understanding has bloomed. I also want to believe I am a more patient man though the women in my house may disagree on occasion. As with all things, patience not excluded, there are limits and there is one driver that really irks me who seems to be propagating at a furious rate.

This irksome driver is one who feels compelled to drive slowly, cruise control enabled, in the fast lane of a 400 series highway. Now, I am not delving into the Highway Traffic Act nor do I want to instigate a debate on this matter. This is solely my opinion and can I help that I am right? I didn’t think so.

So, slow driver in the fast lane, what is your excuse? Are you just ignorant of everyone around you, or are you so discourteous as not to care that you are backing up traffic while you cruise alongside the transport truck in the slow lane? Do you feel that this is your own personal commuter lane? Oh I’ve seen you and zig- zagged past you, glancing sternly over my left shoulder hoping that these actions will somehow snap you out of your haze. But alas, no, there is no cognitive response. As I glance into my rear view mirror it is evident that you are truly aloof, choosing to ignore the horns and flashing lights behind you. You are not courteous and deserve all the high beam flickers and horn blats you get.

A G i f t F r o m t h e H e a r t— s u b m i t t e d

Horseshoe Valley Dental clinic made fifteen smiles brighter at a free Dental

clinic for low income women.

February was “heart” month and Horseshoe Valley Dental Clinic wanted to give back to the community. Staff of Horseshoe Valley Dental Clinic contacted Charlene Taylor, E x e c u t i v e Director of C o u c h i c h i n g Jubilee House,

with a very

generous offer to provide cleaning and dental work free of charge for women in the Couchiching Jubilee House program.

“Our women were thrilled to be the recipients of such a caring gift,” said Taylor. “Women were not getting needed dental work done as they just did not have the financial resources to pay for these services.”

Women with low-incomes spend most of their money on shelter, food and child care expenses. “Dental health is an important part of overall health,” said Taylor, who is a registered nurse. “Unfortunately, most of our women do not have dental care coverage or the financial means to pay for regular cleaning and dental work.”

“I haven’t been to a dentist in fifteen years,” said one of the women who participated in the clinic. Another woman explained that as a child she had never been told to brush her teeth. She now has “a mouthful of cavities” which, thanks to Dr. Lee and the clinic, has been filled.

Dentists and staff of the Horseshoe Valley Dental volunteered their day off to make this clinic possible. “This was definitely a gift from all of our hearts and we hope we can inspire other dental offices to do the same,” said Marie Vivian Wilson, lead organizer of this special event.

O r i l l i a a n d A r e a G o o d F o o d B o x— s u b m i t t e d

The Orillia & Area Good Food Box (GFB) is expanding. We are looking for community groups to partner by setting up host sites to help overcome barriers of location and time

of GFB pick up. Host sites may include churches, schools, agencies, residential buildings, community centres or any other site able to fulfill site based responsibilities which may include:

•taking orders and money from customers •ensuring collected orders are forwarded to the GFB •transporting or partnering with volunteer drivers to receive packed GFBs •distributing GFBs during a set pick up time

For more information please contact Heather Code-Burrell, project coordinator, at Information Orillia, 705-326-7743 or by email at [email protected].

Dr. Lindsay Smith works on one of the clinic participants as Dental Assistant, Marie Vivian Wilson assists.

Dr. Susy Lee, owner of Horseshoe Valley Dental.



Wa t e r I n t o W i n e b y M a r t h a Ta t a r n i c

Fasting

It might seem as if this month’s article is an

about-face from my last contribution. “No dieting!” I proclaimed in January. I described in celebratory detail a 7 course feast in which I, and my friends, indulged as we rang in the year 2012. My argument? Feasting is a lost art. We need to push back against a culture of calorie-counting, dieting, of food treated as an enemy to be managed rather than a gift to be enjoyed.

Fasting appears to be a denial of this new year’s resolution. Not eating – that’s the opposite of eating, right? And yet, here I am, in the Christian season of Lent, and fasting is one of the traditional ways in which people of faith journey through these forty days. Not only that, but fasting is a spiritual practice found in all major world religions, it is both ancient and cross-cultural. And it has nothing to do with cajoling our bodies into dropping a dress-size.

The forty days of Lent are modelled on Jesus’ time of fasting in the wilderness prior to beginning his public ministry. We are told that during this time, he did not eat. Other religious traditions also uphold great spiritual masters who went through long periods without food. But fasting itself takes many forms: ‘giving up’ chocolate or alcohol, limiting meat, cutting back on junk, spending less on treats, refraining from television or videogames, deciding to shop fair-trade or buy locally. When people of faith take on a discipline like this, we are encouraged to notice how it feels, what

it means, how we are freed in doing this, how we are limited. How does being hungry expand my compassion for those who are hungry through no choice of their own? When I spend less on take-out coffee and fast-food lunches, how is that money freed up for other things? On what other things might I, out of compassion, wish to spend that money? Does my body, my energy, feel different when I notice more carefully what I put into it?

I gave up buying meat and drinking alcohol this Lent. Vegetarianism is a traditional way of observing Lent because the season usually coincides with nature’s season for procreation. People give up eating meat as a response to the needs of the rest of God’s created order, in order to let the natural world regenerate. I am not a heavy drinker, but I enjoy a glass of wine with dinner a few times a week. These very simple limitations have provided fruitful reflection:

-I am accustomed to having what I want, when I want it.

-It is difficult, and somewhat embarrassing, explaining to people outside of my immediate family why I am not indulging. It feels inhospitable and anti-social to not share with friends and guests in a glass of wine, to not offer a prime cut of meat at our dinner table.

-We live in a culture that is accepting of restraint for the sake of self – ‘cutting back’ in order to lose weight or to be more healthy – but that is decidedly uncomfortable with restraint for the sake of other – the environment, the animals, the poor.

-choosing not to have something that I can have is an act of freedom. It is difficult. It cuts against the grain of the messages I hear most often: you deserve

it, you earned it. And there is something deeply liberating about that pause before mindless consumption -- which restraint makes me realize is so naturally and frequently my modus operandi.

Ultimately, the Christian faith upholds Feasting and Fasting, not as opposites, but as a necessary pair in the joyful, grateful, generous rhythm of life to which God invites us. The Christian faith joins other faith traditions in noticing that living a pattern of celebration and indulgence, in combination with thoughtful and intentional restraint, is an essential balance against all of the ways in which we can become accustomed to consuming that which does not nourish, alienating ourselves from the needs of the world around us, and letting the flavour of life pass us by. Both practices send the message – and in many cases, teach us once again – that food matters, that food is a great gift that deserves to be treated with respect, care, and gratitude, that what we eat and how we eat directly impacts our physical, spiritual, and emotional selves, that what we eat and how we eat is finally, and truly, an act of relationship, and has the power to either strengthen or deny our connection with the rest of the created order.

N e w H e a l i n g A r t s C o m p a n y O p e n s L o c a l l y


Embrace You, a new, i n t e g r a t e d

healing arts and holistic wellness company, is introducing itself to the Orillia and Barrie area with a series of classes, workshops, treatments, and happiness coaching.

Groove Dance Classes are running now, at Inochi Spa, Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Hatha Yoga Classes are currently being offered at National Nutrition on Mondays from 7 to 8:15 pm, in Orillia.

Also being offered at Inochi Spa, are Reiki / Energy Treatments, combining a unique blend of energy therapy which leaves you feel relaxed and revitalized by energy therapist Vita from Embrace You.

Happiness Coaching is an all-new philosophy and something very new to the community and is now being offered by Certified Happiness Coach Vita Rubino. Happiness Coaching is an inquiry on happiness, what it looks

like to you and how to release the power of happiness within. Vita claims it’s a very exciting time to be talking about happiness!

Her new 8 Week Happiness Series is based on the teachings from Dr Robert Holden of The Happiness Project – UK (www.robertholden.org) and was launched March 7 at Balanced Body Studio in Orillia.

Vita’s passion and mission is to create a holistic community, bringing awareness of health and well-being to her clients by inspiring change. “My aim is to create balance and happiness on an integrated level, through mind, body and spirit approaches,” she says.

Embrace You offers a variety of healing art modalities, including yoga, groove dance, meditation classes, holistic fitness training and boot camps, reiki and energy therapy, and corporate wellness programs. Happiness coaching, wellness workshops and retreats also are on the Embrace You healing menu.

For more information, please contact Vita Rubino at 705-331-1184, [email protected], or go to the website at www.embraceyou.ca. Information is also available on Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin.



Oro -Medonte Counci l’s T i m e l y To p i c s

b y O r o - M e d o n t e M a y o r a n d C o u n c i l

Reflecting on Roads Improvements

A few years ago, those traveling on gravel roads throughout

Oro-Medonte may recall the impact of spring breakup after periods of dramatic temperature changes. It was common to encounter bumpy, muddy conditions and even parts of roads that were impassable from sinkholes and flooding conditions. Those traveling on roads that have been upgraded and paved through Oro-Medonte’s accelerated road paving program need only drive on some of the remaining gravel roads during this time of year to reflect on the

positive impacts from the paving program.Beyond the increase in service for

residents, the paving of roads is proving to be an investment with greater financial savings than originally contemplated. A combination of savings from larger paving contracts and implementing the accelerated program, at a time when interest rates are remarkably low and fixed for municipalities, has resulted in the paving of roads being far ahead of schedule.

In recognition that it is both wise and financially prudent to maintain and redo roads that are already hard surfaced, Council has included provisions in the budget to ensure the best returns on the investment.

It is often at this time of the year that questions are asked about how Council determines the order that road improvements will occur. Budget and work force limitations require priorities to be established. Criteria were established at the beginning of the program. One of the key aspects was to obtain the greatest value from tax dollars from an entire Township prospective. Savings and environmental benefits such as: limiting oiling roads, reducing airborne dust, replacing gravel that was thrown in ditches from snowplowing operations and limiting the distance graders

needed to travel. These benefits were best realized by paving roads that were at or near being pavement ready.

The majority of gravel roads that have yet to be paved are those that require significant reconstruction. The higher costs, workforce constraints and greater lengths of time to get these roads ready to be paved will result in fewer kilometres of roads being paved than in past years.

Hard topped roads are scheduled for repaving when they reach the point that failing to do so would result in substantial increased costs if left until a later date. Council is very much aware of the personal saving benefits

realized to individual residents from paved roads. A recent study projected a savings of up to $750 per vehicle from driving on smoothly paved roads. Also, realtors have reported that paved roads have increased the value and salability of properties.

The majority of Council remains committed to completing the Accelerated Road Paving Program as a sound investment and a desire to provide a similar level of service to all residents throughout the Township. Since inception of the Accelerated Road Paving Program, approximately 183 kilometres of gravel of roads have been paved. Currently there are 45 kilometres of gravel roads remaining in the Township.

March 30 at 7pmShanty Bay Nursery School Silent Auction at 28 Church St. Shanty Bay. Great auction items available: gift certificates, legal will, outdoor lounge chair, kid’s snow shoes, gift baskets, jewellery, wine, just to name a few. For more information, please call 705-722-0119.

Monday April 2 at 12:30pmSimcoe County Arts & Crafts Association general meeting. You will create a pouch to protect your phone using felted wool or fleece. The pouch is embellished and hand sewn. Everyone is welcome. At Simcoe County Museum, doors open at 12:30. Fee is $10. Wesley United Church, 708 Moonstone Road, will hold their Annual Spring Tea and Bake Sale on Saturday, April 21st from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Cost is $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children. Please join us!Coldwater United Church, 14 Harriet Street, Coldwater will be hosting a Roast Beef Supper on Saturday, April 28th at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are $15.00 for adults, $6.00 for children five to eleven, preschoolers are free. For tickets call 705 686 3355.

Saturday April 14 at 2pmSimcoe County Branch, Ontario Genealogical Society is meeting at the LDS Church, 79 Ferris Lane, Barrie. The topic is Fraud Awareness and Genealogy Scams presented by R. Brock Godfrey. Everyone is welcome. Come early to scan the books. For information call Ken at 705-728-1170.

Saturday April 14 from 9am to 3pm Women’s Day at Elmvale Presbyterian Church. An educational and fun day for all women with speakers on identity theft, elder and women’s abuse, and flowers, as well as draws and entertainment by North of 50 and a hot lunch. Sponsored by Simcoe Centre-West District Women’s Institute. Cost $20. Pre-Registration required by April 9 by contacting Cindy Lockhart at 705-527-7768.

Saturday April 14 until 12:30pmSeedy Saturday at the Orillia Farmers’ Market presented by Orillia Community Gardens. Come share and purchase seeds and get ready for the growing season!

April 21 and 22 from 10am to 4pmThe Orillia Quilters’ Guild presents the Sunshine Quilt Show being held at Trillium

Manor, 12 Grace Ave., Orillia. There will be exhibits and sales, a quilt raffle with proceeds going to Trillium Manor Activation Dept., quilting demonstrations, members’ market, quilt shop vendors and tea room. Admission $5 per person, per day and men are admitted FREE. For further information or questions call 705-326-0652 or check our website: wwww.orilliaquiltersguild.com for more detailed information.

Saturday April 21 from 11am to 1:30pmAnnual Spring Tea and Bake Sale at Wesley United Church, 708 Moonstone Road. Cost is $6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children. Please join us!

Saturday April 28 at 6pmRoast Beef Supper at Coldwater United Church, 14 Harriet Street, Coldwater. Tickets are $15 for adults, $6 for children five to eleven, preschoolers are free. For tickets call 705-686-3355.

Saturday May 5 from 4:30 to 7pmDalston Ham Supper at Dalston United Church with continuous seating from 4:30 to 7 pm. The menu includes locally raised ham, scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, vegetables, and lots of homemade pies. Adults - $17 Children under 12 - $8. For tickets, please call Lois Marshall 705-728-8985.

Monday May 7 at 12:30pmSimcoe County Arts & Crafts Association general meeting. Aunt Philly’s Toothbrush rug is made from torn strips of fabric and a modified toothbrush. These rugs are quick to make with no sewing. Everyone is welcome. At Simcoe County Museum, doors open at 12:30. Fee is $10. www.simcoecrafts.ca

Saturday May 26 from 10am to 7pm Sunday May 27 from 10 am to 5 pmSpring Sale at Grandpa’s Horse Stable Antiques and Collectables at Horseshoe Valley Road West, 3 miles east of Horseshoe Resort and 1 mile west of Coulson.

June 9 from 9am to 4pm June 10 from noon to 4 pmUsed Books and Homemade Bake Goods Sale (all proceeds go to Barrie Youth Haven) at Dalston United Church (1734 Penetanguishene Road). If you have any books you would like to donate, please call Janet at 705-835-2750.

Proud Heritage, Exciting Future

Check our website at www.NorthSimcoeNews.com for up-to-the-minute events listing. Send us details of your community event and we will include it on our listing!

C o m i n g E v e n t s



Township of Oro-Medonte News148 Line 7 South, Box 100, Oro, Ontario L0L 2X0Phone: (705) 487-2171 Fax: (705) 487-0133 Email: [email protected]

“Proud Heritage, Exciting Future”www.oro-medonte.ca

follow us on Twitter @TwpOroMedonte

Proud Heritage, Exciting Future

News from Council2011 Accomplishments Report CardLook for your copy of the Township’s 2011 Accomplishments Report Card at your local community hall, the Oro-Medonte Community Centre, Township Administration Centre and on our website.

Huronia Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic Opens!On January 18th the Huronia Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic (NPLC), located at Line 4 North and Horseshoe Valley Road, officially opened its doors to the public. One of 25 NPLC’s in the province

that are scheduled to be fully operational this spring, the Huronia NPLC came about thanks to the efforts of dedicated community volunteers and an exceptional spirit of cooperation. Your Council is very excited that primary health care services have now become a reality in Oro-Medonte, services that are necessary for access to specialty care services. Those without primary health care (i.e. family doctor) who live within a reasonable driving distance to the clinic and wish to have their names added to a list for consideration to receive health care from this clinic are asked to register with Health Care Connect by calling toll free 1-800-445-1822 or by entering your information online at www.ontario.ca/healthcareconnect.

Corporate ServicesWildlife Damage Compensation

On June 30, 2011, the Province announced that it had amended the Livestock, Poultry and Honey Bee Protection Act and introduced a new Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program which came into effect July 1, 2011. For livestock and poultry killed or injured

on or after April 1, 2012, the owner must provide a Premises ID number and a valid Farm Business Registration number on the Program Application (i.e. valuer’s report) for a claim to be eligible for compensation. For instructions of how to obtain a Premises ID number, please contact the

Agriculture Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300 or email [email protected] instructions of how to obtain a Farm Business Registration Number, please contact Agricorp at 1-866-327-3678 or at [email protected] to register. Additional information about the Farm Business Registration number can be found at www.farmbusreg.com.

New Canine Control By-Law In EffectThe Township has enacted a new Canine Control By-law No. 2011-177.Notable changes to the By-law include:

• Defining and recognizing a Farm Working Dog, Hunting Dog, Livestock Guardian Dog, Police Working Dog and Canine Service Animal.

• A Dangerous Dog provision. A dog may be declared a dangerous dog if found to be aggressive, bite or attack a person or domestic animal, has killed a person or domestic animal, or has been declared dangerous in another Municipality. Such a dog would be issued a Notice to Muzzle, resulting in restriction placed on the dog. The owner of the dog would have a chance to appeal such order.

• Dogs surrendered to the pound shall not be released from the pound until a Valid Canine Release Form has been issued by the Municipal Law Enforcement Officer.

Fees are as follows: � For one (1) dog (male or female) —$25.00 � For one (1) dog (spayed or neutered) —$20.00 � For one (1) dog (spayed or neutered and micro-chipped) —$15.00

� Replacement dog tag —$3.50 � For one (1) dangerous dog —$200.00 � An additional $10.00 fee applies to every dog license purchased on or after March 1st. The additional fee shall not apply to new residents for the year in which they move to the Township or to new dogs acquired on or after March 1st in the year that the dog was acquired.

Canine Service Animals, Police Working Dogs, Livestock Guardian Dogs, and Dangerous Dogs may only be licensed, and replacement dog tags shall only be issued, at the Township Administration Centre.By-law No. 2011-177 can be reviewed in its entirety on the Township’s website. If you have any questions related to this matter, please contact the Municipal Law Enforcement Division.

Council Meeting ScheduleRegularly scheduled Meetings of Council for the months of April and May will take place on the following dates:Wednesday, April 4th – 10:00am Public SessionWednesday, April 11th – 7:00pm Public SessionWednesday, April 25th – 7:00pm Public SessionWednesday, May 2nd – 10:00am Public SessionWednesday, May 9th – 7:00pm Public SessionWednesday, May 23rd – 7:00pm Public SessionAll meeting times are subject to change and Special Meetings of Council may also be called on an as needed basis. For a complete schedule of 2012 Council meetings, please visit our website.

Upcoming Office ClosuresThe Township Administration Centre will be closed on Friday, April 6th for Good Friday and Monday, April 9th for Easter Monday, with normal business hours resuming at 8:30am on Tuesday, April 10th. The Administration Centre will also be closed on Monday, May 21st for Victoria Day, with normal business hours resuming at 8:30am on Tuesday, May 22nd.

Fire & Emergency ServicesAirboat Donation

On February 22nd, the Oro-M e d o n t e F i r e f i g h t e r s As soc i a t ion , Oro District Lions Club, M o o n s t o n e Parks and

Recreation Association and Hawkestone Women’s Institute presented Council with a cheque for $10,000 to equip the Township’s airboat with state of the art radar and advanced technology equipment.The donation comes following the accomplishment of the groups’ commitment to the Township to raise funds to assist in purchasing a new airboat and its associated technology after the previous airboat sank during a rescue operation in 2008.The Township thanks each of the organizations involved in this tremendous fundraising effort!

Recreation & Community Services2012 Seasonal Parking Passes Are Now AvailableDue to the popularity of Bayview Memorial Park, the Line 9 Boat Launch, and their respective adjacent streets, a non-resident parking fee

has been established and is enforced in the summer months. To avoid a non-refundable fine and/or tow, all residents/property owners must have a valid Resident Parking Pass clearly displayed in their vehicle when

parking at these locations on all Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays from Victoria Day Weekend (Saturday, May 19, 2012) through Labour Day (Monday, September 3, 2012). Parking Passes are available at the Township Administration Centre and are limited to two (2) per household. Residents impacted by permit parking restrictions on streets bordering Bayview Memorial Park can contact the Township to obtain temporary day passes for gatherings.

Community Keen-Agers ClubThe Community Keen-Agers Club is a drop-in program designed for participants to access at their leisure. There is a mix of physical activity, healthy eating, socializing and other topics of interest. The 10-week program will operate from 10:00am – 12:00pm at Hawkestone Community Hall every Tuesday beginning on April 17th and at Jarratt Community Hall every Thursday beginning April 19th.

Recreation & Community Services Spring/Summer Brochure

The Spring/Summer 2012 edition of the Recreation & Community Services Brochure is now available. Get your copy at your local community hall, the Township A d m i n i s t r a t i o n Centre or on our website. Be sure to

get your brochure today and register for some fantastic ‘healthy living’ programs designed for participants of all ages and abilities.

Transportation & Environmental ServicesPitch-In Canada Week April 23 – April 30

Help clean up the Township’s park lands, walking paths and roadsides by participating in “Pitch-In Canada Week”. Free yellow garbage bags and gloves are available at the Township A d m i n i s t r a t i o n

Centre. Just place any garbage collected in the yellow bags along the roadside for pick up by the Township’s waste management contractor.

Leaf and Yard Waste CollectionResidents are reminded that the week of May 14th, 2012 is Leaf and Yard Waste Collection. For more information, please refer to the County of Simcoe’s 2012 Waste Management Calendar or contact its Customer Service Centre at 705-735-6901 or 800-263-3199.


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As you are currently enjoying the spring edition of the North Simcoe Community News, the vernal

equinox has just arrived which equates to approximately 12 hours of daytime and 12 hours of nighttime. This is all good news to the Oro-Medonte Tennis Club (OMTC) because as we await the opening of the tennis courts each passing day offers longer daylight hours, equating to more court time for everyone. The courts are located at Horseshoe Valley Memorial Park – Line 4 N and Horseshoe Valley Road.

What’s New at the OMTC for 2012?Some of the highlights for the upcoming season

include a “New” Family Membership for only $125. This includes two adults and an unlimited number of children under the age of 18 all living in the same household. No increases to our 2011 membership rates which remain at $30 – Youth, $60 – Single and $100 – Couple. One of the new added benefits to the membership will include discounts on tennis lessons, summer tennis camps and other events. In order to keep the courts available to everyone in Oro-Medonte there will be one court available between Monday-Friday outside of scheduled tennis lessons, scheduled club play or special events. We are excited to introduce a new online booking system in conjunction with Courtside Canada, where our OMTC members can contact other players and set up tennis matches when it is convenient for their schedule. This means you are guaranteed a time when you show up instead of waiting for the other court that is allocated to the public non members.

Our spring schedule will offer both youth and adult lessons between Mondays and Thursdays from 4 to 6 pm, and doubles play Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays from 6 to 9 pm. Friday evenings will be a “Social” night for both members and non-members where everyone is invited out and matched up with players of a similar level and rotated on and off the court every twenty minutes. This gives everyone a chance to have a few friendly matches and meet other players in the area. Summer Tennis Camps will be offered on a weekly basis between 9 am and noon for eight weeks as long as a minimum number of youth register each week. All lessons will have a maximum student to coach ratio of 6:1.

OMTC is a financially self sustaining volunteer based community run tennis club. All money collected from the membership dues and programs is reinvested to purchase equipment, pay insurance and fees to the Ontario Tennis Association – OTA, employ coaches and maintain our financial commitment to a yearly payment to the Township for future maintenance and re-surfacing of the courts. This benefits not

only the members but all users of the courts.

Mark Your Calendar – Sunday May 27Oro-Medonte Tennis Club 2012 Open House Sunday May 27

from 12 to 4 pmJoin us for our open house, fundraiser, and BBQ and experience all the excitement the club has to offer both youth and adults right here in our community. For more information please go to our website at www.omtctennis.com, email [email protected] or call 705-835-5985.

—photos by Jan Novak (www.jdnphotographycanada.com)


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G a r f i e l d D u n l o p M P PIt is imperative for Simcoe County and the entire

province that Ontario takes a leadership role in protecting our biodiversity. In a special report released recently, “Biodiversity: A Nation’s Commitment, an Obligation for Ontario, The Environmental Commissioner of Ontario, Gord Miller, said the Government of Ontario must commit to its responsibilities in the 2011 Ontario Biodiversity Strategy to stem the continuing decline in Ontario’s species and natural spaces.

My riding of Simcoe North is a perfect example of where such protective measures are needed. We live in an area where reforestation and protection of wetlands and species at risk are vital to good health, growth and a sustainable future.

The Commissioner’s warning about the threats from invasive species like Asian longhorn beetles also hits close to home. For example there are a high number of maple syrup producers in our region who count on healthy maple tress and woodlands to survive.

The McGuinty Liberals have tried to micro-manage the Simcoe County Growth Plan but have no guts or the courage to properly look after beetles that are killing our trees.

The Environmental Commissioner indicated in his release: “the federal government has promised, during the current International Decade for Biodiversity, to conserve biodiversity on behalf of all Canadians. It is imperative that the Government of Ontario acts quickly and come up with a plan to implement those commitments. This requires a new Biodiversity Strategy. Rhetoric alone will not suffice.”

The lifestyle we enjoy in Simcoe County and in Ontario, our health, the health of our communities and our economy depends on a healthy biodiversity. We are going to put this government to task as we tackle this important issue and urge all parties to start listening to The Environmental Commissioner of Ontario. We need a plan to implement quickly, to protect Ontario’s biodiversity.

Thank you to Bob Robertson for these fantastic photos of local birds



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S t . T h o m a s A n g l i c a n C h u r c h N e w sb y S u s a n W o o d s

We gather at St. Thomas Anglican Church to worship and serve in ways that seek to develop and build on our relationship with God and one another. Please join us every Sunday at either 8 am or 10:30 am.

The Journey of Holy WeekJoin us as we mark the last week of Jesus’ earthly life. All of the events that unfolded 2,000 years ago led the early Church to call it “Holy Week” and it is a journey unlike any other.

Palm Sunday Sunday, April 110:30 am Join us as we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem.

Maundy Thursday - Thursday, April 56:30pm Pot Luck Supper in Parish Hall7:30 pm Maundy Thursday Service

Good Friday - Friday, April 610:30 am Please join us for this special service in which we solemnly remember and reflect on Jesus’ journey to the Cross. The service includes a narrative reading of Jesus’ passion from the Gospel of John and a sermon by our student assistant, Mr. Thomas (Tom) Lapp. There will also be a special children’s program in the Parish Hall.

Alleluia! Christ is Risen! On Easter Day we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection, the triumph of life over death, hope over despair, light over darkness and the promise of new life that Jesus gives to us. Please join us!

Easter Day - Sunday, April 88:00 am Celebration of the Resurrection10:30 am Celebration of the Resurrection

Other Happenings at St. ThomasLooking forward to clearing out some of your much loved junk this spring? Have we got a deal for you!! Deals on Wheels, the garage sale from the back of your car, will take place on the Village Green on Saturday, May 26 from 8 am to 12 noon. The cost for vendors is $20. Come and park your car or van or truck on the Green and sell, sell, sell. There will be plenty of your friends and neighbours on hand and this is a great way to get the community together to welcome the

spring season.

Shanty Bay Nursery SchoolThe Shanty Bay Nursery School will also be holding its annual sale of gently used items at the Parish Hall at the same time. The Parish Hall and the Village Green are adjoining properties, so there’s lots of room to look over lots of bargains and make great deals! This is a wonderful opportunity to re-locate, re-use, and re-appreciate many treasures.Shanty Bay Nursery School is accepting registrations for the fall. There will be an open house in May (date to be determined). The Nursery School’s email address is [email protected] and the phone number is 705-722-0119.

Our Community Garden of Eatin’ Spring is coming and our thoughts turn to gardening.St Thomas Anglican Church in Shanty Bay has had a community garden, the Garden of Eatin’, for the past four years. Friends and neighbours of the garden gather and offer time and energy in the preparation, planting, nurturing and harvesting of the produce. Many pleasant hours are spent with friends, meeting at the garden to work together to weed and water and to make sure the garden is well tended.The wonderful vegetables produced are given to the Salvation Army Bayside Hostel and the Women’s

and Children’s Crisis Centre.We have benefited from parishioners and non-parishioners alike who generously donate from their own gardens. We help collect produce, or asked that it be dropped off at a central point and then we deliver it to the centres in Barrie.A community garden produces not only healthy foods but a connection with each other, with our land, and demonstrates responsible stewardship. We are looking forward to the new growing season and will be inviting all who are interested in helping the Garden of Eatin’. A meeting will be held at Parish Hall, 28 Church Street, Shanty Bay on Tuesday April 24 at 7 pm to make plans.Helping with the garden is a wonderful way for our young folks to give community hours throughout the summer months. Please feel free to contact me if you have an interest in the Garden: Davina Doorly at 705-722-6818 or [email protected].

Deals on Wheels! Not to be missed!



W h a t ’s H a p p e n i n g i n C o l d w a t e r

b y S u e P i i t z

Since we moved here over a decade ago we have seen many changes

in the Village and it looks like there are more to come. For those of you who haven’t been here a while and just visit on the week-ends a short walking tour will acquaint you with the moves that some shops have made. Back in Thyme has moved next door to where it used to be while two new shops have opened: one where the Remax Realty was located and one where the Coldwater Coffee Shop used to be. Everyone is now familiar with the Bakery that opened its doors. Remax moved across the street where Body Essential used to be. So some operators have moved on to other things and new entrepreneurs have come to the main shopping district of the Village.

Out of habit I watch the level of the Coldwater River every time I go by it. Since there isn’t the ice on it that there has been in the past we will probably have a spring without

flooding anywhere. I personally find this roller coaster of weather a bit disturbing, especially since I can’t control it. Like you I do my best to help, composting and recycling, driving an efficient car etc. but I fear that the bigger issues are far beyond anything we can change. We can only hope and pray the government and big business are wiser in their decisions that those in the past were. Of course we can’t place all the blame on them can we because we who have investments want a good return on our money. Are we part of the problem? Something to think about isn’t it?

So what does the immediate future hold for us here in Coldwater? Well life goes on as usual, every group is still meeting, the Lions Club. The Horticultural Society, Curling, Hockey etc. etc. The Churches are active with their dinners, sales, services and fellowships and choir practices. Very soon all the snow birds will be returning from their winter places and we will find ourselves busy with cleaning up our front and back yards of all the debris the wind and others put there.

The ladies of Coldwater and District have been very, very busy. Congratulations to the

participants from The Coldwater Bowling Centre who participated in the Knockdown Cancer Campaign. We have a bowling Centre to be proud of as it is beautifully maintained. And the ladies at the Curling Club put on an awesome day in their Curling for the Cure and raised a good sum of money for that. Does anyone have a family that hasn’t been touched by cancer?

By the time you receive this issue it will be close to April and the Horticultural Society will be well into planning for their 60th anniversary meeting with Diane Greenfield as the guest speaker, on April 19. The society meets at 7:30 pm on the third Thursday of the month and have moved their meeting place to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church at 28 Gray St. It is wheelchair accessible and everyone is welcome. Guests are asked to pay a small fee. Please lug-a mug.

In May we will hold our members only flower show before our regular meeting on May 20 and on Saturday May 26 we will hold our Annual Plant Sale on the grass near the Coldwater Foodland. The Society is looking into the possibility of selling rain barrels as well

as plants. If they do there will be flyers around the village and district and on our website informing you on how to pre-order them. Many of us have them and find them very useful.

Volunteers are persons who have extra time on their hands and would like to be involved in their community. They like people and want to help in some way to improve their surroundings, meet others with similar interests and share what they can, be it time or knowledge. There are many organizations who could use some help in the Village and if you have never volunteered before and think you haven’t anything to offer, let me be the first to tell you not to worry about that. In every organization I’ve ever joined there is always someone to help you to learn new skills or to point you in the right direction and a whole new world will open to you. Give it a try. After all is said and done how do you know you can’t do something unless you give it a try? And so what if you find you don’t enjoy it? Move on and try something else. Just because you aren’t good at doing one thing doesn’t mean you can’t be really good at something else. Search for joy in life and try to bring joy to others. Until next time...

T h e F i n a l R e c o m m e n d a t i o n— s u b m i t t e d

The ARC process for Moonstone E.S./Coldwater P.S. and Warminster E.S. has now been completed.

After eight working meetings and 4 public meetings, the members of the ARC put together their final recommendation. The ARC process identified the problems which brought these schools into an ARC in the first place. Coldwater P.S. in the near future is facing a problem of under-population by a large number of students due to declining enrolment at that school. Moonstone E.S. has a steady enrolment; however the school was only built for 89 students and therefore has a constant over-capacity. The issues regarding poor programing and poor facility factors at Moonstone E.S. were proven to be unfounded. The Simcoe County Board of Education’s option to the Ministry was to close Moonstone E.S. and send the majority of their students to Coldwater P.S. The small minority of children that live closer to Warminster E.S. would then attend Warminster E.S. An expansion would be needed at Coldwater P.S. to house the Moonstone students. This addition would require funding from the Ministry of Education in the amount of $2.8 million. However, due to the declining enrolment in Coldwater, once again this school would be in a position of under-capacity by 2021. The lack of Ministry funding has proven

to be a problem for all school boards across Ontario. It is no different for the Simcoe County District School Board who realizes that there simply is no funding for new schools or additions to schools. This lead the ARC to focus on a “no cost” solution to the problem. They came up with this final recommendation:Staff conduct an attendance area review commencing September 2014 involving Coldwater P.S., Hillsdale P.S., Marchmont P.S., Moonstone E.S., Warminster E.S., Waubaushene E.S., and include the alignment of secondary school attendance areas involving Midland S.S. and Park Street C.I.ANDTransfer Moonstone E.S. Grade Six students to Coldwater P.S. commencing September 2016 pending results of the 2014 accommodation area review and subject to available space within Coldwater P.S. in consideration of the recommendation that no student be moved to a “portable” learning environment as a result of the transfer of students from Moonstone E.S. to Coldwater P.S.This ARC report will be received by the Trustees at a meeting on March 26, 2012. A Board meeting where delegations to the Trustees can be heard is set for Tues. April 17, 2012 and the final decision by the Trustees will be announced at a meeting on Wednesday, May 30, 2012. In a perfect world, the community of Moonstone would love to house all of their students under one roof at Moonstone E.S. This would include

their grade 7 and grade 8 students that are currently bussed to Coldwater P.S. Moonstone does not want to lose any more students and are quite happy having their children in portables in their own community. The Moonstone Elementary Enhancement Team has worked diligently to look at scenarios for the problems and has proven to the ARC members through delegations that programming and facility problems are not an issue at Moonstone E.S. The M.E.E.T. committee would like to thank Idrees Bashir and Amtul Bashir for not only allowing a petition to be placed in their store at Moonstone, but also for making this petition known to everyone who entered their store. Their dedication to helping M.E.E.T. is very much appreciated. M.E.E.T. would also like to thank Jenna Hooper, who spent ten months producing a book about Moonstone. This book shows the importance of Moonstone E.S. to the community, the history of Moonstone and how losing our school would change the community from the way we know it. The school is the centre of our community. This is a beautiful book that will be presented to the Trustees on April 17, 2012. Lastly, M.E.E.T. would like to thank M.P. Bruce Stanton, M.P.P. Garfield Dunlop, Mayor Hughes and Council for all of their support in various ways to assisting the Moonstone community. Their support is valued within the community. For now the community sits and waits, the decision sits in the hands of the Trustees.

visit: www.NorthSimcoeNews.com

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F i n a n c i a l F o c u ss u b m i t t e d b y J o h n M a d d e n

Sell Investments for the Right Reasons

It’s important to understand which investments to own, and when to

buy them. But you should also know when it’s time to sell an investment — and why. Unfortunately, many people sell investments for the wrong reasons. Some people want the money to purchase so-called “hot” investments, even if they aren’t appropriate for their needs. Others own investments that have lost value, and fearing further losses, they decide to sell — thereby violating the oldest rule of investing: “Buy low and sell high.” These types of behaviour can lead to at least two major problems. First, if you’re constantly selling investments, you’ll likely incur fees, commissions and taxes that can erode any returns you did manage to achieve. And second, by frequently selling off your investments and

buying new ones, you’ll find it difficult to follow the type of consistent, long-term financial strategy that’s essential to help you work toward your goals.

If you shouldn’t sell investments to find quick gains or to avoid losses that may not even occur, when should you sell? You might want to sell:

If your goals have changed — You bought certain investments

because you thought they would help you make progress toward your objectives. But over time, your goals may change, so in response, you may need to sell some investments and use the money to purchase new ones that are more suitable for your new goals. For example, early in your career, you might have benefited from owning investments that offered high potential for growth, but as you near retirement, you may need to shift some — but certainly not all — of your growth-oriented vehicles to income-producing ones.

If the investments themselves change — You might have bought a stock because

you liked the company’s products, business plan or management team. If any of these factors change significantly, though, you might need to re-evaluate your ownership of this investment.

If you need to rebalance your portfolio

— You may have decided that your investment portfolio should be composed of specific percentages of stocks, bonds and “cash” instruments. But due to changes in the value of your investments, these percentages can shift somewhat, resulting in a portfolio that no longer reflects your goals and risk tolerance. If that happens, you’ll need to rebalance your holdings, which may require you to sell some of your investments.

If an investment has chronically underperformed

— Sometimes, an investment simply doesn’t perform as well as you had hoped. When this happens, you may be better

off by selling the investment and using the money to pursue new opportunities. However, don’t rush to judgment. Before you sell an underperforming investment, try to determine why it hasn’t done well. Is it because the market as a whole has slumped? If so, your investment could rebound when the market does. Or are there factors unique to this investment that have caused its problems? If the investment’s fundamentals and prospects still look good, you might want to simply give it time to prove its worth.

By knowing when you should hold an investment, and when you shouldn’t, you can help avoid costly mistakes and improve your chances for long-term investment success. So think carefully before putting up the “For Sale” sign on your investments.Diversification does not ensure a profit and does not protect against loss.Member – Canadian Investor Protection FundJohn Madden, CFP, is a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones and can be found at his office at 425 West Street North, Unit 6 Orillia, telephone 705- 327-5888, or www.edwardjones.com.

H e a l t h y S m i l e s f o r A L i f e t i m eb y Ta m m y G o u w e l o o s R D H

You Are What You Absorb

The saying “You are what you eat” is commonly heard in nutritional

and diet circles. The reality is “you are what you absorb”. We can spend money on super supplements, superfoods and the best food available but do we really absorb the nutrients that we need to function, prevent disease and stay healthy?

There are several factors that determine how well we absorb the nutrients in our food and supplements. 1. Enough water – 75% of our body is made

up of water, we need to take in water between meals to help move the vitamins, minerals, and hormones throughout our bodies, and it is also required to remove the wastes out of our bodies.

2. Dehydration- caused by high protein food choices, caffeine drinks (two cups of water are needed to break even with one cup of coffee) and diuretic medications

3. Fibre – our digestive system works best with lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, raw seeds and nuts- one meal in, one meal out! The right amount of fibre raises metabolism and increases weight loss.

Digestion begins when we sit down for a meal. Taking the time to look at our food, giving thanks and really appreciating all the work that went into growing and preparing the meal helps absorption. As the saliva starts to flow, the digestive enzymes mix with the food as we chew. Chewing for a good length of time allows for best absorption and we actually feel full sooner so we do not overeat. Once the food is swallowed it reaches the stomach where it mixes with stomach (hydrochloric) acid. If we have symptoms of gas, bloating, bad breath and/or burning sensations after eating, it could be a sign of low stomach acid. Our food will not be absorbed without enough stomach acid.

Causes of low stomach acid are:A. A diet high in red meat, dairy and

processed/fast foodsB. Microwaved food - which is unrecognizable

during digestionC. Drinking chlorinated water, pop or cold

beverages during mealsD. Stress and unhappy relationships directly

affect how well we absorb our food

E. Coffee and nicotine will empty the stomach too quickly

F. Use of antacidsG. Low salt intake (sea salt recommended)H. Poor food combinations

Digestion and colon problems are amongst the most widespread health problems of the modern world. How can this happen when we have access to so much in our grocery and health food stores?

A few easy ways to increase the absorption of the food we eat are:1. To help our personal plumbing

(elimination) drink 1 tablespoon of finely powdered psyllium hulls (not seeds) in hot water first thing in the morning to normalize bowel function.

2. Eat fruit on its own between or before a meal.

3. Drink lots of spring or filtered room-temperate water between meals.

4. Take vitamins and supplements with food, unless recommended differently by a nutritionist, doctor or naturopath, this allows for best absorption.

5. Increase daily fibre with snacks of vegetables, nuts and seeds.

6. Eat fermented foods to increase good bacteria in intestines – recent antibiotic use will need to supplement with probiotics.

7. Good food combinations – 50-60% of our diet should be vegetables and fruit, the rest (40%) should be concentrated protein – seeds, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, ocean fish, drug-free poultry and beef, whole grains (other than wheat) and fermented dairy products.

8. Be thankful, enjoy meals times and share with friends and family!

If you have comments or questions contact Tammy Gouweloos, RDH, IHP, at Barrie Dental Hygiene, 705-722-0030, [email protected].



O p t i m i s m a n d P r o g r e s s T r a p sb y L e s l i e V a r s a v a

We humans are strange animals. We

are endowed with active imaginations that we spend a lot of time using to think about the future. And most of us believe the future will be much better than the past, particularly when it comes to ourselves. For most of human history, this optimism served us well. Cautiously optimistic people are healthier and more prosperous. Moreover, human progress was fueled by the imagination of better realities and the belief that we could achieve them. But at this time in human history, our optimism now puts us at great risk.

London-based neuroscientist, Tali Sharot, in her new book, The Optimism Bias: A Tour of the Irrationally Positive Brain, reports that 80% of us experience an optimism bias – a propensity to think more good will happen to us than bad. She concludes, “We’re more optimistic than realistic, and we’re oblivious about it.”

Maybe we just need to acknowledge that the optimism bias exists. If we can foster a more realistic attitude about what we are doing to our

natural capital and the peril it puts us in, we can employ our imagination and optimism to create an actual positive future for ourselves, for our communities, for the human race.

We need to start with the realization that our future depends on finding a way to prosper and thrive without economic growth, without further eroding our natural capital. In his book and 5-part Massey Lectures series, A Short History of Progress, novelist and archeologist Ronald Wright examines conditions that led to the downfall of societies. In every case, it was due to what he calls “progress traps: innovations that create new problems for which the society is unable or unwilling to solve, or inadvertently create conditions that are worse than what existed before the innovation”.

We are now faced with a plethora of potential progress traps: large-scale farming techniques that degrade the soil, enhanced resource extraction that threatens water supplies, technological advancements in bio-engineering, cheap and attractive processed food and toiletries containing harmful

i n g r e d i e n t s , our dearly beloved cars and airplanes, as well as our

garbage dumps, that load the atmosphere with greenhouse gases, nuclear technologies... The list is long. We have been so busy chasing our so-called progress that we haven’t noticed the dark clouds on the horizon.

Yes, the reality of what we have done to our world is bleak, and it may be too much for optimists to process, but facing it is our best hope. Wright says, “Things are moving so fast that inaction itself is one of the biggest mistakes…The reform that is needed…is simply the transition from short-term to long-term thinking, from recklessness and excess to moderation and the precautionary principle.” We can all start by restoring and protecting natural capital, significantly reducing our consumption and supporting the development and implementation of responsible public policy.

Emily Funnell of the Ministry of Natural Resources recently told the Ladies of the Lake Conservation Association that the best way to help Lake Simcoe is to restore natural heritage along shorelines, streams, rivers and ditches. It just might be the best thing you could do for yourself too!

Get Informed and InvolvedTransition Town OrilliaThe focus of Transition Town Orillia is communication and interconnection to support and promote sustainable lifestyle practices leading to local resilience and a thriving community in the face of rising fossil fuel costs, climate change and global economic instability.http://transitiontownorillia.blogspot.com/

AWARE SimcoeAWARE Simcoe is a citizens’ group that works for transparency and accountability in government and to protect water, the environment and health.http://www.aware-simcoe.ca/

North Simcoe StewardshipConnecting communities with our environmenth t t p : / / w w w. o n t a r i o s tewa r d s h i p. o r g / c o u n c i l s /northsimcoe/

Ladies of the Lake Conservation AssociationLadies of the Lake is a registered charitable organization. We are committed to the cleanup, revitalization and protection of Lake Simcoe and its Watershed.http://www.lakeladies.ca/

Leslie is a member of Ladies of the Lake, Transition Town Orillia and AWARE Simcoe.

P a s t Te n s efrom The Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Museum

s u b m i t t e d b y D o u g l a s B i n n s

European/Canadian Funeral Rites

Today’s basic funeral rites are very similar to those

used by the Neanderthals millions of years ago. They buried their dead in pits along with stone tools and animal bones. This appears to be the first indication of concern and respect for the dead. The earliest human burial as we know it today dates back 130,000 years in Israel.

Early European burial customs included ways to protect the living from spirits which were believed to have caused the death. Shutting the eyes of the deceased and covering the face with cloth created a barrier between the spirit and living worlds.

In Christian burials the deceased in most cases was oriented with the head facing east so the deceased was ready for the final summons to judgment. Other religions had their own ways of insuring the deceased had a way to the afterlife.

When European immigrants arrived in Canada in the 1700s they continued to use their old funeral practices. At that time there were no funeral parlors or undertakers and embalming of the body did not exist. On most occasions the deceased was placed in a plain wooden box or coffin and buried with respect. As time progressed, funerals were generally looked after by the local cabinetmaker that made coffins and had a horse and wagon and a black suit. The funeral took place in the family home and burial in most cases took place on the family land. Prior to the influence of American funeral rites, the funeral of a family member was strictly within the confines of the family.

There was no visitation by anyone other than the family. This practice caused little or no recording of deaths and only word of mouth allowed others to be aware of a death.

In the early 1800s undertaking facilities began to appear. Embalming soon followed and this allowed the retention of the deceased’s body for a longer period of time before burial. Forward thinking cabinet makers soon became full fledged undertakers, providing all the required services including funeral homes and parlors. In the Victorian era one of the extra services provided was that of photographing or sketching of the deceased after death so that there would be a record of what the deceased looked like in life.

The Victorian period created various strange funeral customs. The deceased was always carried feet first to prevent the spirit from looking back into the house. Mirrors were covered with black crepe so the soul would not get trapped. Photographs were placed face down to protect the relatives from being possessed by the deceased spirit.

This was also a time of extravagance. This caused the demise of the funeral horse and wagon and the appearance of the ornate horse drawn funeral hearses. This eventually led to motorized funeral hearses. Over time wooden boxes became coffins, which became the currently used caskets, some of which were very ornate. North American deceased are now either buried in the ground or cremated or housed in above ground vaults. Currently most deceased when buried are placed in a casket and then in a concrete box

or vault that is sealed. Does this still ring of a hidden fear that the spirit might escape?

The one funeral rite that has never changed is the “concern and respect” for the deceased and the family.Visit the Coldwater Museum and view articles used in early Canadian Funerals. Contact us at www.coldwaterheritagemuseum.com or at the Museum phone number, 705-955-1930.

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and4 Ceda4 Cedar Pointe Plaza, Barrie(at Dunlop Street & Hwy. 400)

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Hearse and horse

Horse drawn hearse

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Transport basket

Photo of deceased lady


A r t s a n d E n t e r t a i n m e n t S h o r t s — c o m p i l e d f r o m s u b m i t t e d m a t e r i a l s

Singer-Songwriter Anne Walker is live in concert at Coulson Church on Horseshoe Valley Road on Saturday May 26 at 7 pm. Limited seating. For $10 tickets call 705-835-2760 or email [email protected].

King’s Wharf Theatre Announces 2012 Summer Season! The King’s Wharf Theatre at 97 Jury Drive, Penetanguishene has just announced its 2012 summer theatre line up. Contact the theatre box office to reserve seats and see great local live summer theatre! From May 29 to June 23 the theatre presents Annie, A Family Favourite. From June 27 to July 14 it’s Murder at Fern Resort, A Killer

Comedy; from July 18 to August 4 the theatre presents Harvey A Classic Comedy; and finally from August 8 to September 1, take a walk down memory lane with Blue Suede Shoes: Memories of the King A Salute to the Music of Elvis Presley. Regular Performance $45.20; Previews $36.16; twenty and under $22.60; Groups (twenty plus) $36.16. Tel: 705-549-5555 or Toll Free: 1-855-drayton (372-9866).

The Skyliners Big Band will be swinging into spring with its Thursday April 19th concert and dance. Increased numbers of people are re-discovering the joy of swaying to live quality music that is performed the third Thursday of the month at Barrie City Hall’s Rotunda. Some come to dance but most sit in comfortable chairs to watch the dancers, and tap their toes to the familiar, quality music. The downbeat for this free concert is 7:15 pm, and there’s plenty of free parking behind City Hall.

Hear the magnificent new 9-foot Shigeru Kawai concert grand piano at Seniors Serenade, a free concert at 2:30 pm the second Wednesday of the month at Central United Church, 54 Ross Street, Barrie. Afterwards, join us for tea and cookies for $5. On April 11 join us for pianist Ben Smith playing the classics, and May 9 brings Moonglow, popular old time favourites with pianist Geoff Mulholland and Guitarist John Potts.

Bayside Artists: this local group of artists is planning a busy Spring. You can visit with them and view their work at a variety of locations:

Botanix Garden Centre, April 13 to 15; Barrie Spring Art Tour, The Edge Gallery, 32 Dunlop Street W., April 28 to 29; Double Doors Gallery, 4004 Horseshoe Valley Road West, Anten Mills, June 2 to 17, weekends only. At each location, the original creations of each of these ladies are able to be purchased. Further information can be obtained through Patricia Guinn, 705-487-3739, [email protected].

Ridge West Gallery is open for Spring with the Spring Show from March 30 to June 30, featuring Sabine Liva, a contemporary artist whose subtle yet orderly arranged parallel planes of imagery represent sky, water and ground. Her treatment of her subject is entirely contemporary. Jennifer Woodburn finds the design in nature and organizes it on canvas. Using line and simplifying what she sees, looking for interesting shapes and colours, and exploring the spaces in between. Rose Cook is our emerging artist of note; Dori Anne will showcase freehand custom jewellery; Derek Green interprets the whimsy of the Georgian Pine and Roy Hickling will be showing his interpretive runic globes. Ridge West Gallery is open from Thursday to Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm at 953 Ridge Road West at Line 5 in Oro-Medonte. www.ridgewest.ca.

Orillia Museum of Art and History Springtime Events: International Women’s Day Art Show runs from February 29 to April 7, 2012. In celebration of International Women’s Day, OMAH is hosting the 16th annual Women’s Day Art Show. A major independent and all inclusive women’s event for helping promote a positive spirit. High School Art Show from April 9 to May 12, 2012. Our four high school senior art classes will show the best of the best in their works that they have created, letting youth show off their talent in “a real art gallery”. Waterline ~ Timeline runs from May 14 to June 30, 2012. This is an environmental art exhibit which showcases the beauty, cultural diversity and fragility of Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching. OMAH is also looking forward to the Sir Samuel Steele Festival on June 24, 2012. OMAH, along with several partners, will be hosting a festival in honour of our local hero Sir Sam Steele. The festivities include a concert featuring the Orillia Vocal Ensemble at the Orillia Opera House as well as a reception at The Orillia Museum of Art and History hosted by Garfield Dunlop. Get your tickets early! For more information on all these events, contact the Orillia Museum of Art and History at 705-326-2159 or [email protected]. OMAH is located at 30 Peter Street South in the heart of the arts district in downtown Orillia and is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

Artistic Director Scott Hurst has officially unveiled the 2012 season of Barrie’s Theatre by the Bay.(TBTB).Hurst (Stratford Shakespeare Festival alumnus) announced “It will be a season that will see a company of 13 actors take to the Barrie stage in Shakespeare’s comic romp, The Merry Wives of Windsor, and the highly popular dramatic musical, Man of la Mancha. We are thrilled to announce that our line up of actors includes Ian Deakin well known for roles with Stratford’s Shakespeare Festival, Drayton Entertainment and Theatre Aquarius.” The theme for the 2012 season is “Great Stories Well Told”. In Theatre by the Bay’s expanded season, Man of La Mancha will run from July 26 to August 19 and The Merry Wives of Windsor will run from August 9 to August 26. Early Bird Subscriptions include

tickets for both shows as well as a ticket to the Young Company production of Jacob Two-Two Meets the Hooded Fang for one low price; Jacob Two-Two runs August 6 to August 25. Performances will take place at Barrie’s new Mady Centre for the Performing Arts. For more information please contact the box office at 705-735-9243 or toll free at 1-866-735-9243, email [email protected]. Visit the website www.theatrebythebay.com for regular updates and announcements about what promises to be an unforgettable season of Entertainment.

McLarenArt Centre Barrie presents several shows as part of its Springtime line up. Jon Sasaki Good Intentions runs from March 3 through May 27 at Gallery 3. This presentation at the MacLaren features ten works dating from 2007 (Artist’s First Painting Bronzed) to 2012 (Lucky Thinker, a site-specific artist’s intervention involving two bronze casts of Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker). These include six video loops ranging from room-scaled projections to set-piece “efforts” framed on television screens.

Hourglass Continent runs from March 3 through June 3 at the Janice Laking Gallery. Hourglass Continent reunites artists that formed the Latin Collective at Ontario College of Art + Design. They have remained allied by mutual purpose and awareness while their careers distinctly evolved in disparate locations. Each has developed an intensive, extended drawing practice that involves pronounced elements of Mexican and Central American iconography, mythology and history, combined with personal experiences.

Alex Colville Book of Hours, Labours of the Months is at the Joan Lehman Gallery

until June 3 During medieval times, pictorial calendars defined and evoked the tasks and pleasures ushered in by each month. One’s very existence was tied to the cycle of the seasons. For illiterate, agrarian

societies, the recognizable depictions in such illuminated “books of hours” served to instruct and comfort those lives dependent on annual patterns. The internationally-renowned Nova Scotia painter Alex Colville was fascinated by this ancient art form, yet felt himself alien to its presumption of a common lexicon of images. In 1974 he made twelve paintings of the months, each with a personal meaning.

Quest Art School and Gallery presents a variety of workshops this Spring. Adult Workshops include The Dance of Colour-exploring colour theory with Marlene Bulas on April 11 from 10am-4pm; Pastels with Cathy Boyd April 14, 15 from 10am-4pm; Creative Expression - Multi-Media with Polly Sharp, Tuesdays, April 17-May 8 from 7:30pm-9:30pm;

Collage with Victoria Cowan on April 28, 29 from 10am-4pm; Wire Sculpture-Song Birds with Charles O’Neil on May 2 from 10am-4pm; Introduction to Acrylics with Tina Poplawski on May 5, 6 from 10am-4pm; Art Journaling with Karen Gibson on Wednesdays, May 9 -23, from 7-10pm; Instructorless Life Drawing: Mondays, May 14 – August 27, from 7-10pm; Know Your Digital Camera with an Intro to Editing with Instructor David Kennedy on May 17, from 9:30 am – 4pm; and Going Large: Upping the Scale with Rod Prouse on Wednesdays May 28 – 31 from 10am-4pm. Quest’s Young Artists Program presents Saturday Adventures in Art(Session #1) with Lisa Harpell from April 14 to May 5, 10am - 11:30am; Ages 6 to 9; Drumming with Kim Vaillancourt on Tuesdays, April 17-May 8, 4-5:30pm, Ages: 6-10; The Art Buffet with Ruth Hurdle on Tuesdays, May 15 – June 5 ( 4 classes); Ages: 6-10 year olds, 4pm-5:30pm; and a Mother’s Day Specialty Workshop - Mom and Me with Lisa Harpell on Saturday, May 12, 10-11:30am; Ages: 6-10. For more information on these and other programs go to www.questart.ca or call 705-526-ARTS (2787). Quest Art– providing a vital environment for the education, promotion, and appreciation of the visual arts.

The Cellar Singers presents Greer’s Farewell, Maestro Albert Greer’s last performance with the choir, on Saturday May 5 at 7:30 pm at St. Paul’s United Church, Orillia. This concert will sell out so get your tickets early at the ODAC office opposite the new library in downtown Orillia.

The Orillia Wind Ensemble presents Celebrating Suds, a celebration of Suds

Sutherland’s musical works over the years, with special guest Suds Sutherland, on Saturday April 28 at 7:30 pm at St. Paul’s United Church, Orillia. Admission $20 adults, $17 seniors, $5 students, tickets available at the Orillia Opera House

box office, 705-326-8011, or at the door.

The Village Players of Coldwater presents Who’s in Bed with the Butler, a comedy, June 8, 9, 10 and 15, 16, 17 at the Coldwater Community Centre. For ticket information go to www.villageplayers.ca.

The Jubilee Chorale presents its Springtime concert on May 30. For more information go to www.jubileechorale.org.

Mariposa Arts Theatre presents Born Yesterday, a comedy about the power of persuasion, set in post World War Two Washington. Shows run from April 13-15 and April 18-22 at the Studio Theatre Orillia Opera House. Tickets Orillia Opera House Box Office 705-326-8011, www.orilliaoperahouse.ca.

Orillia Opera House has the Sir Samuel Steele Celebration Concert, a fundraiser for the Orillia Museum of Art and History and part of Sir Sam Steele day events in Orillia, on Sunday June 24 at 2 pm. Tickets through the Opera House box office; featuring the Orillia Wind Ensemble, the Orillia Vocal Ensemble and assorted other guests.

Anne Walker

Alex Colville

Jon Sasaki, Ladder Stack [still], 2009. HD video,

Sir Samuel Steele


b y E l l e n C o h e n a n d D a n i e l C r o w l e y

Do you enjoy a variety of music along with a cold beverage? Are you looking

for an event that is family friendly? Do you enjoy activities, vendors, and great food in awesome surroundings? If you do, mark your calendar for August 18. The Second Annual Raise the Roof Music Festival that day is shaping up to be an event you don’t want to miss.

The Rotary Club of Washago presents a

wide variety of musical genres on two stages in this fun day long Music Festival. This year’s music will include country, folk, Celtic, blues, reggae and a variety of rock presentations from contemporary to alternative. Although we are not quite ready to announce all bands, back by popular demand this year is Dr. Krane. They will get you dancing - and get you ready for this year’s headliner: a multiple award-winning Canadian icon will grace the stage! More on that in the next issue!

This music festival is unique in so many ways, not the least of which is the location. Centennial Park on Lake Couchiching is halfway between Orillia and Gravenhurst. Sitting on the edge of the community of Washago, the park is stunning with beautiful granite outcrops; oak, ash and pine trees providing shade throughout the park; open fields for activities and staging; and a fabulous playground adjacent to the gently sloping beach.

The ‘junior’ Rotary group, Rotaract, is already busy planning this year’s children’s activities. Rotaract is run by some exceptional high school students who have volunteered to work with Rotary to present a memorable event for kids of all ages.

Vendors are always an important part of an event this size. Last year regional vendors presented some beautiful crafts and jewellery and one of the lead sponsors, Home Hardware of Washago, had a large display of items at exceptional prices. Come early to take advantage of what all vendors have for sale. Non-profit community groups are also welcome to host a booth.

Food was a great hit at last year’s event. Although it is believed that all food vendors from last year – an international offering of fresh good – will return in 2012, there is space for two or three new food vendors.

Volunteers are needed! The backbone of any community event is the volunteers who make it happen. We will need volunteers to help with the set up and tear down of the festival, and to work during the festival on such things as parking, security, hosting in the beer tent, assisting in the Kid’s Zone or the stage areas, helping to keep the park clean, etc. All volunteers will receive a free pass for the day/evening of the festival and a Crew T-Shirt. A minimum of 6 consecutive hours is required of each volunteer.

Rotary of Washago is currently updating www.washagomusicfestival.com. All information will be posted including vendor

applications, volunteer information, and complete details on performers. Check out our website and then come check out Raise the Roof! It’s going to be great!

Orillia and District Arts CouncilA n n u a l A w a r d s


Recipients of the Orillia & District Arts Council annual awards were celebrated at

the Orillia Opera House on March 8 as three annual ODAC arts awards were presented, honouring two individuals and a group in the Orillia area who have made outstanding contributions to local culture and the arts.

The ODAC Educating in the Arts Award recognizes an arts educator who has undertaken to impart artistic knowledge, skill and creative expression to others. This award was presented to Mayumi Kumagai. Mayumi is a retired secondary school music teacher who has an inexhaustible passion for educating young people in music, particularly string instruments and orchestral music. Each week she volunteers her time and talents teaching vocal and instrumental music at six area schools from September to June. In addition she teaches string instruments to more than thirty private students on a weekly basis, and is now in her thirteth year conducting the Orillia Youth Symphony Orchestra, of which she is the founding conductor. In her spare time she volunteers with the Kiwanis Music Festival and with music events at St. Paul’s United Church. The award was presented by Mary O’Farrell-Bowers, Dean of Georgian College’s Orillia campus, sponsor of this award.

The ODAC Arts Achievement Award, recognizing the art or activity of a person or group who has made an outstanding artistic contribution – visual, theatrical, musical or literary – to the cultural life of the community, was presented to Travis Shilling. Travis is a multi-talented creator of paintings, film and stage productions. His work is in collections across North America and Europe, and has been shown in notable galleries in Canada, the USA and England. His paintings have appeared in film, and as book and record album covers. He has moved into stage and film as a writer, producer and director. His short film Bear Tung won the Best International Drama Short at the New York Film Festival in 2010. He has received commissions from the Smithsonian Institute in Washington and Bravo television. The award was presented by Anita Purcell, President of the Orillia & District Arts Council, sponsor of this award.

The ODAC Community Arts Award, recognizing an individual, organization or corporation who has made a marked contribution to the cultural fabric of the community, was presented to The Champlain Seniors Service Club Music Makers. This group has been volunteering its talent for over twenty years, bringing entertainment and enjoyment to seniors. Seniors themselves, the CSSC Music Makers play weekly for the Champlain Seniors club meetings as well as at least monthly for many seniors’ homes in Orillia. Their big band sound brings wonderful memories and great pleasure, while allowing the Music Makers members to share their continuing love of music. The award was presented by Councillors Peter Bowen and Michael Fogarty on behalf of the City of Orillia. The City of Orillia sponsored this award.

M u s i c a l N e w s— s u b m i t t e d

The “No Shenanigans” choir is now making music in Oro-Medonte. This

new Simcoe County choir had no name last time you read of it. But now we can tell you more!

“No Shenanigans” is an S.A.T.B. choir of people who like to sing and laugh and enjoy social and musical times together. We have members who live in Barrie, Orillia and all over Oro-Medonte. All adult ages are represented. We have performed at seniors’ residences in Barrie and once at Trinity Community Presbyterian Church by way of introducing the choir to our neighbours in the congregation.

Practices are currently being held at Trinity (Line 7 of Oro-Medonte, just south of Highway 11) on Thursday evenings from 7:30 to 9 pm. Thanks to the folks at Trinity for welcoming us for our practices. Please note that this is not a church choir!

Your inquiries as to how to participate are welcomed. You won’t have to audition. Please phone Jan at 705-487-0508 and leave a message. She’ll be pleased to return your call.

Watch for news of the children’s choir which will be starting in the fall. Early inquiries are welcome.

M a r i p o s a F o l k F e s t i v a l A n n o u n c e s S a t u r d a y E v e n i n g

H e a d l i n e r— s u b m i t t e d

Mariposa Folk Festival is pleased to announce that eight-time

Juno winner, Jann Arden, will headline the 52nd annual festival. This will be the first appearance at Mariposa Folk Festival of the celebrated Canadian singer, songwriter, author and radio show host.

With eleven albums to her credit - and numerous songs that charted in Canada, the US,

and the UK - Jann Arden is established as one of Canada’s most treasured performers.

Among the many notable accolades Jann Arden has earned are: MuchMusic Video Awards; Prairie Music Awards; Western Canadian Music Awards and Alberta Recording Industry Association Awards; a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame; National Achievement Award from the Society of Composers, Authors, and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN); and an induction into the Canadian Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Her current album, Uncover Me 2, is one of Jann Arden’s finest releases. On it, she sings songs popularized by The Beach Boys, Fleetwood Mac, The Motels, The Smiths, Dusty Springfield, The Everly Brothers, Doris Day, Peggy Lee, Lesley Gore, and Dorothy Moore. There is one original

song as well, Mr. McLennan.Folk Festival organizers have also

announced other artists for the year, including Oh Susanna, who has released six critically acclaimed records noted for their contemplative, thoughtful, folk-inspired songs; Hey Ocean, a young band with an extraordinary talent for blending various musical styles into their own unique brand of pop; and Good Old War, whose name is an amalgam of the band members’ names. This band has captivated audiences with their acoustic-driven, sing-along-inspiring live performances. Treasa Lavasseur has also been announced, as well as Meaghan Blanchard and Aaron Mangoff, who will be appearing at the festival proper for the first time. Stay tuned to www.mariposafolk.com for more information!

August 18th - Centennial Park in Waashago

—photos by Caston


A P a g e i n t h e F a m i l y H i s t o r y B o o kRachel Rynard, a grade

seven student at Marchmount Public School is currently serving as a Page at the Ontario Legislature. 13-year old Rachel is the granddaughter of Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop and his wife Jane. Rachel’s great grandfather was also a well known politician. Doctor Philip Bernard Rynard was first elected as the federal Member of Parliament for the riding of Simcoe East in 1957. He went on to serve as an MP for 25 years.

O r i l l i a H i k e s— s u b m i t t e d

Saturday April 7Weather permitting we will hike from Devils Lake to Anson Mt. A demanding 6 hour hike in the wilderness featuring a new route from Sheldon Lake. Meet at Willow Court at 8:30 am. Contact Bob or Mary at 705-835-6470.

Saturday April 14Long 4 to 5 hour hike at 5 Winds Trail Dandy Lake. A challenging hike with hills at a moderate pace. Boots a must, bring a lunch. Meet at Willow Court at 8:30 am or 9 am at the Coldwater Arena. Contact Isobel at 705-325-6578.

Saturday April 14Short easy 2-2.5 hour hike on the Uthoff Trail. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am. Contact Barb at 705-487-3593 or Paul at 705-325-6001.

Saturday April 21Short easy hike on the rail trail at Forest Ave. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am. Contact Joyce at705-325-3351 or Paul at 705-325-6001.

Saturday April 214 hour hike at the Bracebridge Resource Centre. Moderate with some hills. Bring a lunch and boots. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am. Contact Heather 705-329-2403 or Wendy at 705-238-7217.

Saturday April 28Long 4-5 hour hike at Devils Glen on the Bruce Trail, moderately hilly. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am or Stayner Beer Store at 10 am.Contact Jack or Rita at 705-797-097.

Saturday April 28Short easy loop hike in the Copeland Forest 2-2.5 hours. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am. Contact Paul or Gay at 705-325-6001.

Saturday May 5Moderate 4-4.5 hour hike starting at Rugby Estates, some hills, bring a lunch. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am or Rugby Estates at 9:15 am. Contact Barb at 705-487-3593.

Saturday May 5Short easy hike in Copeland Forest 2.5 to 3 hours. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am. Contact Stan at 705-326-0801 or Gay at 705-325-6001.

Tuesday May 8Fall hike planning meeting. Meet at Maxine’s at 6 pm for a one hour walk followed by a meeting. Hike leaders please have your hike information ready. Contact Maxine at 705-327-6876 or Paul at 705-325-6001.

Wednesday May 9Bike 50-55 kilometres along trail and lightly travelled roads. Bike to Lock 42 for lunch. Meet at Couchiching Park, end of Greenhouse Parking lot at 9:30 am.Contact Isobel at 705-325-6578.

Saturday May 12Hike at Mono Centre on the Bruce Trail A Loop hike, moderate with some hills, here may be some spring flowers, 4 hours. Meet at Willow Court at 8:30 am. Contact Rosa at 705-812-3579.

Saturday May 12Easy 3 hour hike at Tiny Marsh, guided tour. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am. Contact Maxine at 705-327-6876 or Paul at 705-325-6001.

Tuesday May 15Bike in Oro -Hawkestone area. Bring a lunch. Moderate with some hills 3-4 hours. Meet at Barb’s at 10 am. Contact Barb at 705-487-3593.

Saturday May 19Hike at Awenda Park Penetang 4-5 hours. Moderate with some hills on Park trails. Park fees apply, car pool to share cost. Meet at Willow Court at 9 am or trail centre at 10 am. Contact Isabelle at 705-326-8082.

Saturday May 26Hike in Singhampton. Long 4 hour plus. Will include one hour to admire wild flowers and picture taking. Moderate with some hills. Combination deciduous trees and rocky crevices. Meet at Willow Court at 8 am Contact Carol at 705-325-1065.

Saturday June 94 hour rugged hilly hike 12-14 kilometres in beautiful Beaver Valley including old Baldy. There will be a short car shuffle. Meet at Willow Court at 8 am or Stayner Beer Store at 9 am. Contact Heather at 705-329-2403 or Wendy at 705-238-7217.

Friday to Sunday June 15- 17Weekend Camping in Owen Sound KOA. Call for cabins and sites 1-800-562-8675 or 519-371-1331. Contact Marion at 705-327-5366.

Rachel Rynard pictured with Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop at his desk at the Ontario Legislature.

O r o - M e d o n t e G a n a r a s k a H i k i n g C l u b S p r i n g E v e n t s


NOTE: Be sure to bring drinking water on all hikes, hiking boots are recommended.For more information about the club call Wayne 705-835-7018 or visit the Ganaraska Hiking Trail Association website at www.ganaraska-hiking-trail.ca.

Sunday March 25 (5:30 pm)Annual Meeting and Pot Luck Supper. Meet at Dalston United Church, 1734 Penetanguishene Road, just north of the Old Barrie Road. Bring your own plate, mug and cutlery and a main course, salad or dessert. Supper at 5:30 pm, short meeting at 6:30 pm followed by “Cycling from Prague to Dresden” by club member, Christine Cornu. Contact Bob or Lois 705-728-8985.

Monday April 16 (9:30 am) -EASYWalk along the Midland Waterfront Trail, approximately 6 kilometres. Meet at Dalston United Church to carpool. Bring or buy a lunch. Must contact Bob 705-728-8985 or Marjorie 705-722-8732.

Sunday April 22 (1:30 pm) -MODERATE Circle hike in Copeland Forest, some hills. Meet at 3600 Oro-Medonte Line 5, about .5 kilometres north of Horseshoe Valley Road. Must contact June 705-721-0621 or Peter 705-721-4277.

Monday April 30 (9:30 am) -MODERATE Hike the Swiss Meadows area of the Bruce Trail, near Collingwood, approximately 6 kilometres, great views. Bring a lunch. Meet at Dalston United Church to carpool. Must contact Wayne 705-835-7018 or Betty 705-722-4418.

Sunday May 6 (1:30 pm) -MODERATE Circle hike in the Barr Tract, some hills, spring flowers. Meet at the corner of Bidwell Road and Oro-Medonte Line 2. Must contact Lois 705-728-8985 or Wayne 705-835-7018.

Monday May 14 (9:30 am) -MODERATEHike on the Bruce Trail in the Osler Bluff area, about 8 kilometres, some hills. Bring a lunch. Meet at Dalston United Church to carpool. Must contact Bob 705-728-8985 or June 705-721-0621.

Sunday May 27 (1:30 pm) -EASYHike on the North Simcoe Rail Trail from Hwy 26 to Fort Willow, approximately 6 kilometres. Meet at Dalston Church to carpool. Must contact Marjorie 705-722-8732 or Gord 705-721-9401.

Monday June 4 (8:30 am) -MODERATEHike on the Bruce Trail along Skinner’s Bluff to the Bruce Caves, approximately 9 kilometres. Bring a lunch. Meet at Dalston United Church to carpool. Must contact Bob 705-728-8985 or Janis 705-728-9438.

Sunday June 10 (1:30 pm) -MODERATEHike a hilly part of the Ganaraska Trail from the Old Second South to Gill Road, about 6 kilometres. Meet on the Old Second South, just south of Horseshoe Valley Road, a car shuttle will be provided. Must contact Wayne 705-835-7018 or Betty 705-722-4418.

Monday, June 18 (8:30 am) -MODERATEHike on the Five Winds Trail to Long Falls and back, approximately 11 kilometres (4-5 hours at a moderate pace), hiking boots recommended. Bring a lunch. Must contact Bob 705-728-8985 or Holly 705-835-7018.



G u t h r i e P u b l i c S c h o o l N e w sb y A m y B r i s c o e ,

H o m e a n d S c h o o l

It has been some time since Guthrie P.S. graced the pages of this newspaper and I

am happy to take on the task of updating the community on the events and happenings of this wonderful school.

The school year started off with the unveiling of our new Natural Playground. A good part of the previous school year was spent on planning and preparing for this and parents and volunteers worked over the summer to pull it all together for September. From the looks on the faces of the children who use it every day, I think we can agree it is a huge success!

In November we hosted Guthrie’s second annual Festival of Crafts. What a great day that was! With over forty vendors highlighting their wares and a steady crowd all day, it turned out to be a great day for all! Not only did it help out our school, but a lot of Christmas gifts were crossed off the list that day! Our 2012 event is quickly filling up, so if you would like to reserve your spot or get more information please e-mail Kristi at [email protected].

I bet you didn’t know that Guthrie had so many great artists behind our doors. Seven of our students placed locally in the Royal Canadian Legion Remembrance Day Poster Competition and all are moving on

to compete at the regional level. Way to go students!

There are eleven girls at Guthrie sporting shorter haircuts this winter, all in support of a great cause. In November they cut off their hair and donated it to Angel Hair for Kids, a charity that makes wigs for children with various illnesses. A big thank you to these girls, as well as the nine hairdressers who donated their time to support this great cause!

One of our biggest changes at Guthrie this year would be saying goodbye to our Principal Melody Northrup. Melody has been with Guthrie for 6 1/2 years and made a lasting impression on the students both new and old. She will be missed at Guthrie, but we wish her all the best in her new position at Andrew Hunter School in Barrie. If there is anyone who can fill her shoes we may have found it with our new Principal Ms. Paula Smith. If you haven’t met Ms. Smith yet, be sure to say hi. She has been working hard to get to know her students at Guthrie and has lots of great ideas for our future. On behalf of the students, staff and families, welcome to Guthrie!

If you have ideas you would like to share or are interested in what is up and coming at Guthrie, we welcome you to join us at our next Home and School meeting on Monday April 2 at 7 pm.

First Shanty Bay Brownies EnjoyC h i n e s e N e w

Y e a r s !— s u b m i t t e d b y S t a c e y

W o o d s

The First Shanty Bay Brownies enjoyed an evening of festive flare as they

celebrated Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) on January 23rd.

All the girls dressed up in traditional Chinese dresses and ate a variety of Chinese food with chopsticks. They learned many things about the Chinese culture through crafts, songs and stories. Kung hei fat choi!

E f f e c t i v e S p e a k i n g C o n t e s t W i n n e r s

b y L i o n B o b M u r r a y

The Oro District Lions Club hosted the annual Effective Speaking Contest

for East Oro, Guthrie, Shanty Bay and W.R. Best Memorial Public Schools on Thursday February 23.There were two students from each of the four schools, and all the speeches were both informative and entertaining. The judges were hard pressed to choose

between the contestants. Erin Parna-Gile from East Oro was our winner, runner up was Gracie Gilliland from Guthrie and Kenzie Bell from Guthrie finished third…..all other speakers tied for fourth!The Oro Lions members would like to congratulate all the speakers on a job well done. Special thanks go out to their teachers and families for helping them prepare.

Front Left: Tyler Denes, Kenzie Bell, Gracie Gilliland (second place), Molly TraylingSecond Row Left: Lion President Gord Dixon, Jessica Peverill, Isaac Csekey, Erica Leonard, Erin Parna-Gile (first place), Lion Rob Prouty

G A M E S !Word MiningSee if you can form words by using the letters below (the letters can be combined in any order).

1. Use the letters: FEHQDOWEP to make a word at least 5 letters long

2. Use the letters: ZOAUNZCQB to make a word at least 5 letters long

3. Use the letters: UQNNUWOEE to make a word at least 5 letters long

Number Maze!Next, draw a line connecting two identical numbers. The catch is that none of the lines can cross one another. The more numbers paired, the greater the challenge to this maze. So be careful! Plan ahead so you don`t trap yourself!!

20

1

7

2

19

8

15

9

3

1610

4

17

1418

12

13

11

6

5

20

1 7

2

19

8

15

9

3

16

10

4

17

14

1812

13

11

6

5

Word Mining: 1:HOPED, 2:BACON, 3:QUEEN (Maybe you found different words!)ANSWERS TO WORD MINING:


Shop Locally! Advertise Locally!www.NorthSimcoeNews.com

The Deadline for our June/July Summer Issue is May 2nd for mailing on May 25th

email [email protected]

D a l s t o n - C r o w n H i l l U n i t e d C h u r c h

b y J a n e t P a n t i n g

As we welcome Spring, our church is getting ready for Easter worship, shared with

Midhurst United Church. The worship services are as follows:Good Friday – worship at Midhurst United Church at 10:30 amEaster Sunday – Sunrise Service - 7 am at Helen & Ron Coutts’ – corner of Pooles Road and Russell Road, MidhurstEaster Sunday Worship – 10 am at Dalston United Church The Dalston-Crown Hill United Church offers an informal book study group, which is held weekly (in the evening) in someone’s home. This time, the book chosen is “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz. This provocative little book is based on ancient wisdom of First Nations people of central America. The second agreement, “take nothing personally”, always promotes deep discussion and questioning. The group is open to other spiritual seekers and we welcome you to join us. Further information and directions may be obtained by calling Reverend George at 705-728-6015. We invite your family to participate in ‘Godly Play” - a different way for children to experience the stories of the Bible. When – every Sunday morning, 10 am (September to June)Where – Crown Hill* or Dalston* United ChurchWho – all children from 4 years to 12 yearsWhat happens:

•A trained story teller tells a story about Jesus or other stories of our faith using wooden figures and other appropriate props

•The children then are led in a “wondering” time – where they are encouraged to imagine how the people in the story feel.

•Through art, or other activities, the children create their own response to the story.

•A symbolic “feast” is shared by all, demonstrating God’s abundant and welcoming love for everyone.

•A blessing is given to each child before they leave.Response - our children are very enthusiastic about this new way of having church school. Parents report they talk about what they have experienced for several days afterwards. Besides the “Godly Play”, we provide a Nursery for younger children, and classes for teens. Everyone is welcome to join us, young or not quite so young. *Crown Hill U.C., (605 Penetang Road) Sundays with an odd numbered date*Dalston U.C. (1734 Penetang Road) Sundays with an even numbered dateMay brings our annual Ham Supper, which will be held at Dalston United Church on Saturday, May 5 with continuous seating from 4:30 to 7 pm. The menu includes local ham (Nicholyn Farms), scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, vegetables, and lots of homemade pies. Adults - $17 Children under 12 - $8. For tickets, please call Lois Marshall 705-728-8985.

Got Books?We are having a Used Book Sale and Homemade Bake Goods Sale on June 9 from 9 to 4 pm and June 10 from noon to 4 pm at the Dalston United Church (1734 Penetanguishene Road) to raise money for the Barrie Youth Haven. Do you have any books that you would like to donate? If so, our church would really appreciate it. Please call Janet at 705-835-2750 to arrange for pick-up or information on drop-off.

S t e a d y S t a t e E c o n o m y , T h e N e e d f o r G r o w t h i s a M y t h

b y S a n d y A g n e w

I was recently informed about a terrific website for the Center for the

Advancement of the Steady State Economy, http://steadystate.org/meet/mission/. The website states that “A steady state economy is an economy with stable or mildly fluctuating size. The term typically refers to a national economy, but it can also be applied to a local, regional, or global economy. An economy can reach a steady state after a period of growth or after a period of downsizing or degrowth. To be sustainable, a steady state economy may not exceed ecological limits.” Herman Daly, one of the founders of the field of ecological economics and a leading critic of neoclassical growth theory, defines a steady state economy as: ‘An economy with constant stocks of people and artifacts, maintained at some desired, sufficient levels by low rates of maintenance ‘throughput’, that is, by the lowest feasible flows of matter and energy from the first stage of production to the last stage of consumption.’ Daly, Herman. 1991. Steady-State Economics, 2nd edition. Island Press, Washington, DC. p.17. A steady state economy, therefore, aims

for stable or mildly fluctuating levels in population and consumption of energy and materials. Birth rates equal death rates, and production rates equal depreciation rates.The website concisely describes the Downsides of Growth:“There Is a Conflict between Economic Growth and:1. Environmental Protection

A growing economy consumes natural resources and produces wastes. It results in biodiversity loss, air and water pollution, climate destabilization, and other major environmental threats.

2. Economic Sustainability A healthy environment is the foundation of a healthy economy. We need healthy soils for agriculture, healthy forests for timber, and healthy oceans for fisheries. Along with clean air for breathing and clean water for drinking, these are the building blocks of a prosperous economy and a good life.

3. National Security and International Stability When economic growth threatens the environment and economic sustainability, social unrest is the

result, and national security is compromised. Economic growth was once used for building military power, but in an overgrown global economy, economic sustainability is more conducive to diplomacy and stability among nations.”

One page on the website dispels myths like the one below:“Myth - Economic growth is always desirable.Reality - To determine whether economic growth is desirable requires us to examine its value objectively, without blindly assuming that all growth is worth pursuing. Growth comes with both benefits and costs. The goal is to grow the economy when the benefits are higher than the costs, and to have the wisdom to stop growing when the costs catch up. The economic laws of diminishing marginal utility and increasing marginal costs tell us that, over time, costs do catch up with benefits.”This growth myth has resulted in urban sprawl devouring the Greater Toronto Area and it now threatens Simcoe County. We must rethink how we want our communities to look and function in fifty years, not just twenty, as we do now. We need to challenge the very need for continuous growth. It’s a myth perpetuated by those who profit from growth. I hope you will check out the CASSE website.

S h a n t y B a y N e w s b y M a r k B e t t r i d g e

The big news in Shanty Bay is that the renovations of

the hall at historic St. Thomas church are complete. The outside is now finished as well. As reported in an earlier edition of the North Simcoe Community News, the construction was completed at the end of October 2012. The grand opening was November 26. This was a total renovation, right out to the bare walls. The hall now has one third more space than previously.

Asbestos insulation had to be removed, and the new hall is now energy efficient, boasting new windows and doors. There is an elevator, making both floors completely accessible. As well, there are accessible washrooms on both floors. Shanty Bay Nursery School was closed during the construction, but is now open and up and running once again.

Walking is an activity enjoyed by many local residents of Shanty Bay. Some people head out on their own, while others walk in pairs. Often dogs accompany people out walking. We meet many people around Shanty Bay on our evening stroll, greeting

some with a nod and a hello, while stopping to talk to others. Often a small group will form as we stop to talk, and then the walk will continue with this new-formed group.

The rail trail is a popular walking route, except in the winter when the snow is deep and it is enjoyed mainly by snowmobile enthusiasts. We tend to walk

around our subdivision behind the fire hall, although we will venture down the second concession, across Bay St. and up O’Brien St. Other times we go the opposite way on the second, and then walk through the Arbourwood subdivision.

For a short time Ice fishing returned to Shanty Bay with the colder weather. On weekends, cars and trucks lined the second concession from the boat launch, up the hill, across the Ridge Road and continuing right past the Rail Trail. On the Family Day weekend, a small town of ice fishing huts could be seen from the government dock. Further down, you could make out another large group of huts at the bottom of the third concession.

We know of at least two upcoming weddings this summer of Shanty Bay residents, which will be written up in a future edition of the North Simcoe Community News. We will keep our ears open and hope to hear of any more weddings, etc. With spring here I am sure there will be even more locals out and about enjoying a pleasant evening stroll.


Sugarbush Scuttlebutt b y S c o t t T h o m a s

As another winter comes to an end in Sugarbush, we can reflect upon all

the fun times and some of the interesting challenges of the season. The weather sure had a large impact on outdoor activities, more so than any year in recent memory. With the constant swings in temperature from really cold to rain almost every week, trying to plan for skating, skiing, tobogganing, or snowmobiling became a hit or miss affair.

Speaking of skating, this was absolutely the most difficult year to maintain the rink at Sweetwater Park. A huge thank you must go out to the volunteers, who worked diligently through the frustrating weather, to keep the rink going!

I think it’s fair to say that the highlight of the winter, again this year, was the annual Friends of Sugarbush Family Day Event. On February 20 the weather finally cooperated to provide a picture perfect day where over 300 people gathered at Sweetwater Park. In the brilliant sunshine families enjoyed skating, hockey, the blazing fire, the delicious BBQ, meeting their neighbours, and of course the now famous cardboard toboggan race! This year’s toboggan race had a record 23 entries, which included an amazing array of sleds with various shapes, sizes, and colours. Although there were too many fantastic toboggans to completely list in this article, we can recognize the winners in

each category. For Best Design, congratulations to the Van Deursen Family, and for Longest Distance congratulations to Baxter Thomas and his Titanic! A special note of thanks goes out to Oro-Medonte Mayor - Mr. Harry Hughes, Councillor Kelly Meyer - Ward 2, and Councillor John Crawford - Ward 4, for their participation as impartial Judges for the best design category.

The 2012 Sugarbush Family Day Event was a phenomenal success again this year because of dedicated volunteers and generous sponsors, which need to be acknowledged. First of all, thank you to all the Sugarbush residents who came out to participate and help build community spirit! This event would not take place without organization from the Friends of Sugarbush Committee, and the incredible support from the Township and Council of Oro Medonte! Thank you to the valued sponsors of this year’s event, who provided prizes and additional needed resources; Pepsi, Casino Rama, Maplewood Builders, Horseshoe Valley Resort, Napoleon Barbeques, Six Mile Lake Provincial Park and Home Depot. In

addition, the Friends of Sugarbush would like to thank Michael and Jennifer Houlden of Houlden Studios Photography, who graciously accepted donations that will help ensure continued family events in Sugarbush.

The next Sugarbush event will be the Annual Spring Garage Sale, the date to be announced shortly (check the new community board at the entrance to Sweetwater Park).

In addition, the Friends of Sugarbush will be also be hosting a new Summer event this year, called Sugarbush Day, tentatively scheduled for June 23 - once again more details to follow.

The Friends of Sugarbush are an Ontario registered Non-Profit volunteer group.

Volunteer Wanted: A volunteer co-ordinator is required to organise the annual Sugarbush/Oro-Medonte Terry Fox run. There is a volunteer team in place willing to help. This run has raised over $100,000 over the past eleven years thanks to the efforts of Lola Picard. Lola has recently moved to Barrie and

is no longer able to co-ordinate the team effort.If you have a few hours to spare and are

willing to help please call Anita at 705-835-5353 to discuss what this rewarding volunteer position entails.

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M i n d f u l M u s i n g s b y D r . G e r a l d L e v i n e M D

Installment 3: Stress: React or Respond, It’s Your Choice!

For optimal health, one needs to develop self-awareness, have clear health goals, a willingness to make necessary changes and an attitude of openness, acceptance and gratitude. The previous installment focused on awareness, with the suggestion of frequent “stop, look and listen” breaks throughout your day.

Once you get in the habit of being self-aware, you may notice your bodily sensations, thought patterns and behaviour patterns more clearly. Shedding light and consciousness on these patterns is important for making any necessary changes needed for optimal health and stress management.

Stress management is one of the key elements to good health. Stress waves are a natural part of living-it is how we surf these waves that counts. When we encounter a perceived threat (the very definition of stress), we can either react or respond. The threatening trigger may cause a reaction: the release of stress hormones and chemicals resulting in muscle tension, rapid heart rate, indigestion, agitation and clouded thinking. The opposite of reactions are responses, which are reasoned, solution-focused thoughts and behaviours that can be generated only when calm.

It can be healthy or even life saving to react when we are faced with a real life or limb-threatening situation, such as an oncoming car about to hit us! Small doses of stress hormones keep us sharp and focused. It is chronic stress that causes fatigue, irritability and a host of medical problems including headaches, high blood pressure, ulcers and

depression, to name but a few. This concept is very well explained in The Will to Heal series.

We are often conditioned by past negative experiences to react even when there is no real threat. This over-reaction and sensitivity can cause a downward spiral of stress-related diseases that themselves becomes a stress!

The antidote to this harmful spiral is to use your awareness to simply notice the beginning of a reaction and train yourself to become the curious, calm observer. Cultivating this “witness” to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors is the way to break the stress cycle. Taking a breath and simply watching your reaction reduces its intensity and duration, restoring calm. It is only when you are calm that you have access to your brain’s pre-frontal lobes that can generate the best response in a difficult situation. When you are in an emotional traffic jam you have a choice: react (emotional road rage) or respond by putting your calm, centered inner self in the driver’s seat. You are more likely to choose the best route when calm and able to think clearly. Mindful Exercise: Make a list of the top ten situations that trigger a reaction. Use curiosity next time you encounter one of these situations-simply witness your reaction and see if you can allow the feelings and thoughts that occur to naturally pass without pushing them away or holding on to them, much like a cloud going by. Ask yourself “what is happening in this moment?” “Is everything OK right now?” Focusing your awareness on the present moment may help you to gradually respond instead of react in a stressful situation. The Will to Heal series has excellent techniques to help you learn how to get better and better at responding instead of reacting.

The next number of installments will focus on the principals of mindfulness, which is non-judgmental moment-by-moment acceptance.



Wa s h a g o C o m m u n i t y C e n t r e N e w s— s u b m i t t e d

The outdoor rink has been very well used. Thanks to Andy, the ice has

been good but certainly has had its moments. The winter weather has been quite unpredictable but we have a good base of ice and it seemed to be holding even in the mild weather.

The winter programs started the week of January 23 and will finish the week of April 9. We are very appreciative of having Doug Cooper, a local artist, lend his

talents and time to teach art to students in grades 7 and 8 – every Thursday evening from 6 to 7:30. Doug has also agreed to teach acrylic landscape painting to adults on Friday mornings during the winter. Thank you Doug.

The spring programs will start the week of April 23 with registration on April 11 and 12 from 5 to 7pm and April 14 from 10 to noon. Check the website at www.washagocommunitycentre.com for programs and times and other special events.

O r o S t a t i o n H a l l N e w sb y D o r o t h y W i l l i a m s

It has been a very busy winter for the members of our Hall Board. I’m pleased

to say that many of the “family” issues have abated or been resolved and life is returning to just the regular busyness of life!At our Annual Meeting in February, two new members joined our Board. We welcome Crystal (Wallace) and Allen Gilchrist to the Oro Station Community Hall Board.The Bid-Euchre Tournament in January was a great success and we thank Pat Shelswell, from Edgar, for kindly guiding us through the day. By now, the March tournament will have taken place. We all realize just how much work Lynda Crawford puts into running the Euchre Night each week and are so grateful for her contribution of time and energy.

We want to thank our great neighbours and friends Walter Iles, Peter Beer, Allen Gilchrist and Jake Leigh, for all the many hours that they have put into preparing and maintaining the ice rink this year. Even though the season was so up and down, we know that the community was able to enjoy lots of skating. We also want to thank Dean Bell of C.R.S. for the use of fencing around the rink. We also must thank Jeff Crawford for faithfully plowing the snow at the hall for us so that our winter events could take place. Thanks also to some of these same people and Peter and Donna Cramp for giving up many hours of their free time to work so hard on the basement renovations… it is appreciated!We held a very informative “Crime Stoppers” information night in February. Thanks to Mike and Bev Williams for sharing what ‘Crime Stoppers” is all about.

They are looking for volunteers to represent the Oro Station area. “Crime Stoppers” have found that communities with their signage and citizen involvement, have fewer criminal offences occur.Our Pancake Supper in February was a great success, with good food and enjoyable company had by all. Thanks to all who cooked, served, cleaned and participated.This Hall belongs to the Oro Station Community and your continued support of our functions is what keeps us active and financially viable. Plans are in the works for Canada Day. Watch for an update of events in the next North Simcoe News.For rentals: call Lynda at 705-487-2939

Bid Euchre: Mondays and alternate Wednesdays at 8pm

Playschool: Mondays and Thursdays at 9am

P a s o P o r P a s o U p d a t e


Canada’s honourary consul Marion Moore

joined fifty other guests to celebrate the achievements of Paso por Paso’s Canada-Maya scholars at a reception in Panajachel Guatemala recently.

Ms Moore, who grew up in Honey Harbour, has been a resident in Panajachel for over twenty years. “Recognizing the achievements of these young scholars and of the Canadians helping them is the first truly joyous Canadian event for me as honourary consul in all these years,” she said. Her voluntary position deals mostly with misfortunes sometimes encountered by Canadian travelers.

Ms Moore also assisted Doris Middleton, Linda McDowell and Don McIsaac in presenting a Canadian flag to Sharon and Dwight Smart of MayanFamilies.org in recognition of their assistance to PASO POR PASO over the past six years.

Don McIsaac of Houston Texas recently joined the board of Canada Maya Scholarships. Don’s parents were both former mayors of Orillia; he is an alumnus of Park Street Collegiate Institute and Trent

University. Currently he is CFO at Alimak Hek Inc. in Houston, and a member of Society of Management Accountants of Ontario. He has

travelled many times in Guatemala, and maintains strong loyalties to Canada and Orillia.

Other Orillians who attended included scholarship directors Garry Fell, Doris Middleton and Roger Pretty; PASO directors Judith Rapson and Pat Pretty. Orillians Dale Duncan and Sharon Miller Hepditch, on tour with other artists, attended as well.

This second annual event paid special tribute to Oliva Lopez who has completed university studies for a degree in business and Isabel Churunel in Social Work. They will join the elite of less than one percent of Maya women with university degrees later this year.

Other Maya scholars include Rodolfo Perez (tourism), Diego Pazan Velasco (mathematics), Anastasia Xon (Social Work), Leonardo Elias Rios (medicine), Pedro Solis (law, represented by his wife Paulina and two year-old son Alan). Max Juan Tiney studying medicine in Sancti Spiritus, Cuba and Luis Alberto interning

in medicine in Esquintla, Guatemala were unable to attend.

Canada Maya Scholarships vary between $100 and $250 a month, and are scaled according to financial need. Summer jobs are not generally available to Guatemalan students.

All Guatemalan universities except San Carlos are private for profit institutions. Guatemala ranks 125th of world countries in spending on education. The literacy rate is 69%. 51% of the population lives below the poverty line. 25% of children are malnourished.

S i m c o e C o u n t y C l o t h D i a p e r E n t h u s i a s t s P r e p a r e t o S e t W o r l d

R e c o r d– s u b m i t t e d

Thousands of parents around the globe will unite to change the

world — and their babies’ diapers — during the Great Cloth Diaper Change 2012. Local parents and babies from Simcoe and Muskoka will join the international effort to set a Guinness World Record for the most cloth diapers changed at one time.

Local green living and natural parenting store, Parenting By Nature (www.bynature.ca), as well as National Nutrition, Orillia’s vitamin warehouse (www.nationalnutrition.ca) will be hosting a local event in Simcoe County at National Nutrition, 5 Progress Drive, Orillia. The Great Cloth Diaper Change is free and open to the public, and registration is required. To view official rules and pre-register, visit www.bynature.ca/great-cloth-diaper-change-simcoe.html. Deadline to register is March 31st!

“In the U.S. and Canada, nearly 90% of babies are diapered in disposable diapers, meaning 60,000 diapers will enter landfills during the ONE MINUTE parents will be changing diapers on April 21st,” says Tamara Champion, cloth diapering mom and owner of Parenting By Nature. “It’s estimated that it takes 250-500 years for disposable diapers to decompose — so those diapers, along with nearly all the others that have ever been used, will remain in our landfills for generations to come.”

Parents in Simcoe County and beyond are eager to be a part of setting a Guinness World Record and celebrate modern cloth diapers. Currently registered for the Orillia site are parents from Angus, Barrie, Orillia, Gravenhurst, Oshawa and Peterborough. The first thirty registered participants to arrive at the event will receive a swag bag full of freebies from sponsors of cloth diaper and baby related products and all registered participants have the opportunity to win door prizes, giveaways during the event and participate in family-friendly activities provided on site.

Also being collected during the event are previously loved cloth diapers for the Parenting By Nature Cloth Diaper Bank program which benefits local families in need choosing to save money by using cloth diapers.

In its second year, the Great Cloth Diaper Change is highlighting the environmentally friendly choice to choose cloth diapers, and helping to increase public awareness of cloth diapering. Date and time is Saturday, April 21 at 12:30 pm Eastern when more than 400 locations in 20 plus countries around the world with thousands of parents and babies participating will set a world record for the most cloth diapers changed simultaneously. The official Great Cloth Diaper Change Facebook group for Simcoe County can be found at www.facebook.com/SimcoeClothDiapers.

L to R Sharon and Dwight Smart of Mayan Families, Doris Middleton of Washago, Marion Moore of Panajachel, Linda McDowell of Coldwater. Photo by Garry Fell of Orillia. Taken March 3 at Casa Alegre in Panajachel Guatemala.

The Deadline for our June/July Summer issue


visit www.NorthSimcoeNews.com


E a d y N e w sb y E v e l y n R e i d

Belated sixtieth wedding a n n i v e r s a r y

congratulations to Ken and Valerie Hamilton of Moonstone. They had a family gathering to celebrate the occasion in December and we wish them many more years of health and happiness together.Our community has been saddened by the deaths of several of our Eady friends and our sympathy goes to the families of the following persons.Helen Walker died on January 19 at Trillium Manor in Orillia where she has lived for several years. She had her ninety-sixth birthday last August. Helen’s husband Beverly died in 1996, leaving Helen and three sons, Donald, Allan and Charles and their wives all living within a mile of their birthplace. Helen and Bev had several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Helen was a great community worker in the Women’s Institute, the Fairvalley Anglican Church, an ACW member, the Willing Worker’s Club, and an endless volunteer worker at the Eady Community Hall. Her funeral service was held from the funeral home in Coldwater followed by a reception at the Eady Community Hall. Her burial service will be held in the spring at the Fairvalley St. George’s cemetery. We extend our sympathy to the family of Gwen McEathern of the Huntsville area, formerly of Eady, who passed during the winter. Her parents were Foster and Carrie Orr. She had much family in the area still. Sympathy is extended to the family of Marion Barr, sister of the above family, and wife of the late Jack Barr. They lived in Coldwater and raised eight children. They had nine grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Marion was eighty-six years old and will be buried in the Hobart cemetery. Sympathy to the family of John Beelin of Penetang, who used to live on the Eady Station Road. John died suddenly in Midland Hospital in his sixty-first year. He leaves his wife Shanti, two daughters and husbands and two grandchildren. His funeral was held from the Catholic Church in Midland and spring burial will be at the Brentwood cemetery, south of Barrie.We were sorry to hear of the death of Russell Hewetson and extend our sympathy to wife Win and family. Russell was in his eighty-sixth year and his funeral was held from Toronto. They had moved to a newly built home in Orillia when they sold their farm in Eady. A continued improved recovery is hoped for Isabelle Schaller of Orillia, formerly of Eady, who is now home recovering from major surgery in Orillia. Don Walker and other members of their ski doo club spent a week at camp at Carney enjoying snow for their snowmobiling sport. Their wives enjoyed a few days from home up at the Sleep Inn hotel in Bracebridge in February.The Eady Grenard Women’s Institute held its January meeting at the home of Helen Bell. Several items of business were finalized. The Fairvalley Willing Workers Club met at the home of President Helen Langman of Orillia in

January. The Village Players are now rehearsing at the Eady Hall for the play “Who is in Bed with the Butler?” to be performed in June. Rita Whiston spent two weeks in Cuba enjoying plenty of sunshine and good weather. She flew down with the senior’s group from Washago. Ralph and Wendy Hough and another couple flew down to Cuba for a week and enjoyed the sunshine, the beaches, and the friendliness of the Cuban people.We wish Nathan Dix, son of Martin and Heather Dix, great success in competing at the badminton competition in next month’s Ontario winter games being held in Collingwood. Nathan is a student at Park Street in Orillia.Congratulations also to Ashley Wallace, another young Eady student at Park Street, who was nominated as Orillia’s Athlete of the Year, due to her prowess in many sports, including volleyball, baseball, badminton, track and field and wrestling. Brian and Bonnie Smith accompanied by Brian’s mother and father, and myself, enjoyed a wonderful thirteen day motor trip down to Cape Coral Florida, south of Fort Myers. The temperature was in the high 80s with lots of sunshine and no rain. While there one of our day trips was over to Port Charlotte to visit friends there at the Maple Leaf Estate, including Doug and Judi Dunlop, Jim and Barbara Dunlop and Mike and Betty Hayes. We toured the estate consisting of 1260 homes, work shops, sports area, golf, etc. while riding on a golf cart!The Eady Wesley UCW members held their February meeting at the church making plans for several events coming in the spring.The World Day of Prayer service for Coldwater and area churches was held at the Coldwater United Church on Friday March 2 in the afternoon, followed by refreshments. Brenda Goss of Fairvalley and Sarah Oakley of Bass Lake travelled by plane on a medical mission to Nicaragua with a sponsoring group called Friends of the Orphans. Twenty-eight people went, including doctors, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists and others. The orphan children as well as adults and other children in surrounding villages were given complete medical exams. Many Nicaraguans walked long distances and others came on horseback to the clinics which were held in churches and schools in the area. Brenda and Sarah would like to thank the congregations of St. George’s Fairvalley and Orillia First Baptist Church for their support.Mark and Melanie Tinney of Eady celebrated their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary in February at the Warminster Legion.We welcome Mr. and Mrs. Dennis and Lynn Bartlett to Eady, along with their teenagers Rachel and Rick. Wanda and Landon accompanied Dr. Peter Warder to a vet conference in Las Vegas for a week in February. While there, the main attraction was the Grand Canyon and seeing all the mountains covered with snow. Landon Warder’s curling team won first prize in a competition recently.Brian Johnstone of Eady chaired the curling event for the Coldwater Lions Club on

February 4 in Coldwater. This is a large fundraiser for charity groups in the area. If you have any news please call me at 705-835-5304.

Coming Events April 8Easter Sunrise service at 6:30am on Moonstone Road hill with a pancake breakfast after the service.

April 21Eady UCW Fiftieth Tea and Bake Sale at Eady United Church from 11am to 1:30pm. Cost is $7.

May 26Anne Walker concert at the Coulson Church at 7pm. For tickets call 705-835-2760 or email [email protected].

June 2Large garage, plant and community home baking and BBQ sale at Eady Hall from 8am to 2pm.

June 9Garage sale only at Eady Hall.

June 17St. George’s Fairvalley cemetery service at 2:30pm.

www.NorthSimcoeNews.com



S h a n t y B a y W e l l n e s s C e n t e r V i b r a c o u s t i c B e d


Shanty Bay Wellness Center is excited to be one of the first clinics in

Canada to bring Vibroacoustic Stress Relief therapy to our clients and our community.

Manufactured just outside Chicago Illinois and distributed through Sprout Master in Elmvale, this unique and relaxing therapy has been described by some as the best “Disney World” ride they have ever been on.

Vibroacoustic therapy involves a sound vibrational system that provides audio and tactile stimulation to the mind and body for a deep relaxation response. As you rest on a soft and comfortable

bed conformed to your body shape, the system delivers an effective yet subtle process that massages your central nervous system and moves body fluids for a stronger immune system.

Each therapeutic session is designed to achieve various outcomes: greater energy and circulation, relief from insomnia, stress, arthritis, pain and fibromyalgia, or neurological disorders, and has a side effect of weight loss and muscle toning, achieved while you rest in a meditative state and listen to melodies from Mother Nature. Each individual will experience a unique response of their own, allowing for an effective and positive therapy for different conditions and disturbances. Safe for all ages, the

effects of Vibroacoustic therapy are long lasting, creating deep relaxation long after your treatment is over, which contributes to less stress in your every day life. Twenty minutes on the bed is equivalent to eight hours sleep on the cellular body.

Whole body vibrational therapy was first developed fifteen years ago by NASA to prevent bone and muscle loss during space travel, but over time scientist have uncovered more benefits for sleep disturbances and the circulatory system. Newly discovered have been the positive effects on Parkinson’s disease and those suffering from auto immune dysfunctions. Not to be confused with the stand up version of vibrational therapy or vibration plates, Vibroacoustic Therapy is sound vibration that literally massages your central nervous system while your body rests and is encouraged into a deep meditative state.

Shanty Bay Wellness Center has made this therapy very affordable to all, compared to other stress and pain relief treatments out there. It also shows faster results in a short period of time. For more information go to the web site at www.shantybaywellness.com or phone 705-722-0376.

Editor’s Note: Kathy at Shanty Bay Wellness Center was kind enough to let me try the new Vibroacoustic bed. It was a very enjoyable and unique experience, and in the beautiful surroundings of the Wellness Centre, it certainly was relaxing! Thanks Kathy! Anna

North Simcoe Community News is published six times a year - February, April, June, August, October and December.We welcome stories, photographs, and news of interest to readers in Oro-Medonte and Severn Townships. Contributors are advised that their written work may be edited and that sometimes material cannot be included due to timing, lack of space, or other considerations.North Simcoe Community News (the “Newspaper”) reserves the right to classify advertising under appropriate headings, to set rates, and to determine page location. No copyright material, including advertising, may be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of North Simcoe Community News.All claims and notices of error in advertisements must be received by the publisher within 10 days of first publication. It is agreed by all advertisers that the liability of the Newspaper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement or in the event that errors occur in the publishing of any advertisement, shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect items only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. All advertising is subject to the approval of North Simcoe Community News.

Editor/Publisher: Anna Proctor Graphic Design/website: Steve Caston

Photographer: Laura Proctor7871 Pineridge Road, RR1 Washago, ON,L0K 2B0

Phone: (705) 689-6370 Fax: (705) 689-9225

Email: [email protected]: www.northsimcoenews.com

Sharing Place Third Annual Mac & Cheese Luncheon

W i l l F e a t u r e D o c t o r s W i t h o u t B o r d e r s Fo u n d e r

- s u b m i t t e d

Dr. Richard Heinzl, founder of Doctors Without Borders/MSF

Canada will be the guest speaker at the third annual Mac & Cheese Luncheon, a major fundraiser for The Sharing Place Food Bank.

“In today’s world, it is more important than ever for individuals and organizations to take an unconventional approach to solving problems,” says Heinzl, who founded the Canadian chapter of the humanitarian relief organization when just out of medical school and went on to be its first field volunteer during a mission to Cambodia.

Eleven years later, MSF Canada has sent more than 650 medical and nonmedical volunteers overseas, including nearly 200 physicians. MSF Canada now has volunteer-staffed offices in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Halifax and Ottawa.

Gourmet macaroni and cheese prepared by a Casino Rama chef will be the main course at the gala business

luncheon, which is modeled directly on a successful Edmonton, Alberta fundraiser that has raised well over $1-million for inner-city charities since the early 1990s.

“Enjoy your favourite comfort food while helping to bring comfort to families in the Orillia area – that’s what we’re telling our luncheon sponsors,” says event organizer Cheri Carman.

Though only in its third year, already the Mac & Cheese Luncheon has become a popular, must-attend event. The first annual luncheon featured award-winning actor and musician Tom Jackson and was called “one of the events of the year” by 2010 Chamber of Commerce President Gini Stringer. It was followed by last year’s equally successful event, featuring award-winning CBC broadcast journalist Wendy Mesley.

Organizers report that full tables (seating eight) are selling quickly. They encourage anyone considering a $500 table sponsorship to act fast before all thirty-seven tables are gone.

Individual tickets, priced at $50, will be released only when table sales are complete.

The Mac & Cheese Luncheon will take place at Casino Rama’s Silver Nightingale Ballroom, on Tuesday, May 8, 2012, beginning at noon.

W a r m i n s t e r N e w sb y I r e n e P e c k h a m

Judy Smith at “Crafts With Class“ is busy preparing for Spring. She has classes for kids and adults in Folk Art Paper Tole. To

register call 705-327-1123 or drop in to the store 9823 Highway 12 in Warminster.

No, you are not seeing things. There has been a white squirrel visiting our feeder this winter.

Spring is on its way; soon we will see all those first beautiful flowers that welcome Spring. Next comes digging in the warm ground to plant more flowers and vegetables for family, and grass cutting. Have a great Spring and enjoy!



C o l d w a t e r B o w l i n g C e n t r e ’s Y o u t h T e a m W i n s S i l v e r

a t P r o v i n c i a l s— s u b m i t t e d

After winning the Zone H Championship, the 4 Steps to Stardom boys combo team from the Coldwater Bowling

Centre advanced to the provincial finals held on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at Roseland Bowl in Burlington, Ontario.The team consisted of Jack LeBlanc (bantam), Matthew Lapensee (junior) and Trevor Tinney (senior). The Coldwater team were still in the lead after four games and ended up taking silver, losing by only five points in the final fifth game.Congratulations to Jack, Matthew & Trevor and special thanks to their amazing coach, Mike Thomas.

Biocompatible Dental Hygiene Therapy and Products • Comprehensive Oral AssessmentTeeth Cleaning • Gum Therapy • Teeth Whitening • Sports Mouthguards

705-722-0030Tammy Gouweloos, RDH,[email protected]

Healthy Smiles for a Healthy LifetimeHealthy Smiles for a Healthy Lifetime

Over 30 Years ExperienceOver 30 Years Experience

BLUE DRAGON MARTIAL ARTS

BLUE DRAGON MARTIAL ARTSAuthentic Okinawan Karate and Modern Self-Defence

Horseshoe Valley and Shanty Bay, Ontario, Canada

www.OroKarate.ca705-321-0543

Philip Allain (Sensei)

“Never harm anyone, never let yourself be harmed”

F i v e N e w M e m b e r s i n Wa s h a g o R o t a r y

b y D a n H e r b e r t

During the months of February and March, 2012, the Rotary

Club of Washago & Area Centennial inducted five new members into their fold. John Garven of Cumberland Beach, Steve Caston, Elizabeth Schamehorn, Candy Potter and Sue Kenney all of Washago, joined during one of the two most recent Wednesday meetings. All were sponsored into Rotary by club member Dan Herbert of Washago.

Herbert said “I am so pleased to see our membership growing and adding to the diversity of the club. Each of these new members will bring new and fresh ideas to the table which is so important in order to properly represent the community we serve.” All new members received warm congratulations from the other members of the club and all said they are looking forward to assisting with the club’s many local and international community service projects.

The induction ceremony was performed by club past president Rod Harth.

The Washago club is a member of Rotary International, a worldwide network of inspired individuals who translate their passions into relevant social causes to change lives in communities. There are 33,000 Rotary clubs in more than

200 countries and geographical areas. Clubs are non-political, nonreligious, and open to all cultures, races, and creeds. As signified by the motto Service Above Self, Rotary’s main objective is service — in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world. For more information about Rotary in Washago & Area, visit the club’s website at www.washagorotary.ca.

New Washago Rotary members March 7, 2012. Front Row: John Garven (left) Liz Schamehorn (centre) and Sue Kenney (right). Back Row: Dan Herbert (left) Steve Caston, Candy Potter and Club President Mary Bax (right)

—by CASTON


The Deadline for our June/July Summer issue is May 2nd for mailing on May 25th

NSCN

B re re to n Fi e l d Nat u r a l i s t s— s u b m i t t e d

Join the Brereton Field Naturalists on Friday APRIL 20 for the

Annual General meeting and Potluck Supper at 6 pm at the North West Barrie United Church. Not only do the members help provide a table full of delicious dishes, you can also contribute items for the silent auction, and show a few of your favourite photos. Contact Ian Cook at 705-727-4004 if you wish to show some of your own slides or have any other questions. This is always an enjoyable evening for all members so please plan to attend. Bring your own dishes and cutlery as well a contribution to the supper as well as any items for the auction.

Join the Brereton Field Naturalists on Wednesday April 11 in the evening to search for American woodcocks with leader Ian Cook 705-727-4004. Depart from the Little Lake Parking Lot at 8 pm. Displaying American Woodcocks at dawn and dusk is one of the earliest signs of spring in Simcoe County. Join Ian Cook to learn more about their calls and behaviour. Wear waterproof boots, and bring bug repellent and a flashlight.

Join the Brereton Field Naturalists on Saturday April 28 for North Simcoe Railtrail cleanup with leader John Doll 705-737-3978. Depart from Little Lake Parking Lot at 9 am.Enjoy the spring weather and spend the morning cleaning up along

the Railtrail, in keeping with Earth Day. A hot dog BBQ lunch will complete the morning’s chore. For more information go to www.breretonfieldnaturalists.org.

Dave Vinson3674, 8th Line N., RR#4,Coldwater, ON., L0K 1E0

(705) 835-2268

Water Wells Hydro Fracturing

Drilled Well Cleaning Pump Installation & Service

Well Production Testing Geothermal Heating and Cooling


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The North Simcoe Community News - April/May 2012

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