Midhurst/February 5, 2025 – This February and March, the County invites those interested in making a difference in the lives of older adults to check out one of our Bring a Friend to Volunteer Days.
Come learn more about our fun and meaningful volunteer experience! This event highlights a variety of activities, such as our Cycling Without Age program, Aqua Painting, Word Games, Musical Programs, Friendly Visits, and more. It’s a chance for friends to volunteer together, try out different activities, and discover the rewarding feeling of giving back. Our goal is to inspire more people to get involved and support County and other regional programs.
Interested residents are asked to RSVP to Alix Coutts, Volunteer & Secondary Student Supervisor via email at [email protected] or by phone 705-790-3915. Event dates are as follows:
February – * RSVP by February 12
Trillium Manor, 12 Grace Avenue, Orillia, Ontario Tuesday, February 18
Sunset Manor, 49 Raglan Street, Collingwood, Ontario Wednesday, February 19
Simcoe Manor, 5988 Line 8, Beeton, Ontario Thursday, February 20
Georgian Manor, 101 Thompsons Road, Penetanguishene, Ontario Friday, February 21
March – * RSVP by March 5
Trillium Manor, 12 Grace Avenue, Orillia, Ontario Tuesday, March 11
Sunset Manor, 49 Raglan Street, Collingwood, Ontario Wednesday, March 12
Simcoe Manor, 5988 Line 8, Beeton, Ontario Thursday, March 13
Georgian Manor, 101 Thompsons Road, Penetanguishene, Ontario Friday, March 14
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.
Collingwood, ON [05 February 2025] — The Town of Collingwood is thrilled to announce several exciting public art opportunities for artists in 2025. Artists are invited to share their talents and participate in these unique projects, each designed to enhance community spaces and celebrate Collingwood’s vibrant culture.
Why Public Art Matters
Public art plays a crucial role in enriching community spaces and events. It transforms ordinary places into inspiring environments, fosters a sense of identity and pride, and encourages public engagement and dialogue. Public art also supports artists and contributes to the cultural and economic vitality of our community.
Recent public art installations include “Dare to Dream” at Tremont Square, the striking Lighthouse Sculptures on Hurontario Street, and the interactive art sculpture “Gookooko’oo” at Sunset Point Park.
2025 Public Art Opportunities
Collingwood is excited to release several public art calls for artists in 2025. These projects aim to add vibrant art features across the Town. The opportunities and deadlines are as follows:
International Women’s Day: Celebratory graphics. The deadline for submissions is February 21, 2025.
den Bok Family Park: A new public art installation. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2025.
Mayor’s Golf Tournament: Artwork on the greens. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2025.
Centennial Aquatic Centre and Central Park Arena: Entrance murals. The deadline for submissions is May 12, 2025.
Sunset Point Park: Artwork for the stage area. The deadline for submissions is July 28, 2025.
Each project offers artists a unique opportunity to contribute to Collingwood’s cultural landscape. Artists are invited to visit the public art page of the Town’s website at www.collingwood.ca/public-art to learn more about these projects and submission criteria.
Join us in making Collingwood an even more beautiful and inspiring place through the power of public art!
If the Chinese hacked the U.S. government the way private citizen Elon has, it would be a major act of cyber warfare.
And since Elon is a government contractor, he’s now in a position to make policy calls that benefit his own companies and hurt his competitors—following the Russian oligarch model. We are in a completely lawless realm, and this is likely to continue until he is stopped. Meanwhile, government employees are being forced to choose between conforming or protecting the public. Plus, Elon is also sabotaging America’s soft power and influence in Africa while he and the other tech overlords plot how to derail Europe’s effort to regulate them. Anne Applebaum joins Tim Miller.
Pollinators: tiny, buzzing superheroes disguised as bees, butterflies and other critters keep the planet alive by maintaining biodiversity and supporting ecosystem health. Despite their Herculean efforts, they must now navigate obstacle courses of habitat loss, toxic pollution, fragmented landscapes and increasing climate change impacts.
Luckily, the Butterflyway Project offers a glimmer of hope. Volunteer Butterflyway Rangers — armed with wildflowers and good intentions — are creating highways of habitat for pollinators, one garden at a time. These corridors of native plant patches are carefully designed for hardworking pollinators to zip between.
As Butterflyway architects, Rangers transform their neighbourhoods into pollinator paradises by creating 12 or more gardens close to each other. Why the emphasis on proximity? Because pollinators aren’t long-haul travellers.
Take the common eastern bumblebee (Bombus impatiens). Although it can technically fly more than two kilometres, it usually sticks to a 300- to 500-metre foraging range. Even the most determined bee isn’t wasting precious energy on a distant trek for nectar. Pollinator gardens make up a chain of local diners where pollinators can grab a quick bite without burning all their fuel.
Research shows that even small habitat patches can play an outsized role in supporting pollinators and biodiversity — acting as stepping stones, providing vital food and shelter for pollinators with limited foraging ranges. Connecting even modest-sized gardens can go a long way to helping protect pollinator populations and ecosystems.
But the secret ingredient isn’t just any greenery; it’s native plants. These offer everything pollinators need: nectar, pollen and habitats that match their life cycles. Native plants also bloom at the perfect time for pollinators, making them essential allies in the effort to protect biodiversity.
Native plants aren’t just good for bees. They’re tough, low-maintenance and eco-friendly. They don’t need chemical fertilizers or constant watering, making them the ultimate hassle-free option for planet-saving gardeners.
Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) is a great example. Also known as “bee balm,” it thrives in a range of climates, from the Prairies to the Maritimes. Its resilience and adaptability make it a favourite among pollinators and gardeners.
Even versatile plants such as wild bergamot have limits, though. Some won’t thrive in alpine or Arctic conditions. That’s why understanding your ecozone is key. Canada has 15 distinct ecozones, each with unique soil, climate and vegetation. Choosing the right native plants for your ecoregion ensures your garden will support local pollinators and maintain natural ecosystem balance. Tools like the Pollinator Partnership’s “Find Your Roots” make it easy to discover which species will thrive where you live.
When pollinators move between gardens, they transfer pollen, mixing the genetic ingredients plants need to grow stronger and more resilient. Think of them as a mobile dating app (isn’t there one called Bumble?) for flowers: pollinators help plants “meet,” ensuring future generations are healthier and better equipped to handle challenges like diseases and environmental changes. This strengthens entire ecosystems, supports thriving pollinators and keeps nature’s cycles running smoothly.
The idea of planting a dozen habitat gardens might seem daunting, but Rangers aren’t expected to singlehandedly conquer biodiversity loss. The Butterflyway Project is all about teamwork. In some communities, there may only be one Ranger to start, but as more residents sign up, they connect with each other and collaborate to create a Butterflyway.
For example, in Hamilton, Ontario, Butterflyway Rangers have worked with local groups, agencies, businesses and schools to create more than 25 habitat gardens on public and private properties. They’ve hosted plant sales, organized community events and started an Instagram account to document their journey and inspire others. They’ve shown that protecting nature can be fun, social and beautiful.
If you’ve ever wanted to get your hands dirty and help make magic happen in your community, now’s your chance. Applications to join the Butterflyway Project are open from February 5 to 19. No gardening experience? No problem. The project provides training, support and a community of like-minded heroes ready to transform neighbourhoods into vibrant pollinator havens.
Join the Butterflyway Project. You’ll fight biodiversity loss, strengthen ecosystems and connect with passionate people, all while earning the brag-worthy Butterflyway Ranger title. Grab your gloves and let’s make Canada bloom again, create vibrant habitats that support pollinators, protect biodiversity and show why nature — which gives us everything — is worth fighting for.
David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with David Suzuki Foundation Communications Specialist Kate Kourtsidis.
Chris Hayes: “The President of the United States appeared to announce a completely unprecedented American policy towards Gaza and the people that live there that on its face would violate international law and be seen by millions around the world as the U.S. backing explicit ethnic cleansing.” Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) joins to discuss.
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Our resident chaos coordinator “Frankie Malloy” is staging another animal-pocalypse, and this time it’s going down on a Tuesday (because why should weekends have all the fun?).
Picture this: a Persian Teacup ringleader and his entourage, armed with nothing but pure adorableness and a PhD in mayhem-making.
Pawsome furiends! 🐾 Which adorable critter clips would make your heart go pitter-patter? Share your suggestions in the comments below! Whether it’s playful puppies, sleepy kitties, or bouncy bunnies, we’d love to hear what makes you smile! … tail wiggles excitedly
This is the real me “Frankie Malloy”. My Mom took this action photo when I pretended to be an owl perching on a fence post. That’s a pic of one of my best friends from Muskoka, see you in May… “Rocky”.
Michael Clark, President of Society of former Special Agents of the FBI joins Nicolle Wallace on Deadline White House to discuss the growing fears of the Trump Administration purging the FBI, and the warning from current and former special agents about the damage that could be done to American national security and the Justice Department’s ability to catch and prosecute crime should Trump follow through on his threat of purging the bureau.
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The jet lag is slowly wearing off. There’s a 14 hour time difference between Japan & Collingwood.
I was very fortunate to have traveled around beautiful Japan for nearly a month. Lots of beautiful history, delicious food, wonderful culture & powder skiing.
One of the highlights was a special tour of beautiful Katano (between Kyoto & Osaka), population 80,000(approx). I arrived on a sunny Saturday, after 2 local trains from Kyoto. As I exited Kozu Station, I was surprised to see lovely palm trees 🌴.
After a quick coffee in a warm local diner by the eki(station), I was met by 2 gracious gentlemen, Mr. Sawamura & Mr. Tamura of the Katano Sister City organization.
Luckily for me, they both spoke English fluently, since my Japanese language skills are quite limited. These 2 gentlemen were incredible hosts, representing Katano proudly.
They chauffeured me around town as I bombarded them with questions. Our 1st stop was the over 100 year old Yamano Shuzo Sake Brewery (Sakagura), a wonderful tour hosted by CEO Hisayuki Yamano (even though the brewery was closed!). This was followed by visits to ancient temples & the Katano Educational & Cultural Hall, a nice museum & work space for skilled local artisans.
We ended our incredible tour with a climb, up 200 steps to a stunning vista from Mount Kono. I proudly gave my hosts Collingwood pins & a Collingwood Blues hockey puck. I am very honoured to have visited Katano & enjoyed the company of Mr. Sawamura & Mr. Tamura.
どうもありがとうございます Thank you very much! ❤️🇯🇵🇨🇦
Ihor Sywanyk
Happy 59th Birthday to my friend “E” – Malloy
Amazing Adventures in Japan
Ozeki Hoshoryu was unanimously recommended for promotion to Yokozuna by the Japan Sumo Association’s Yokozuna Deliberation Council. On January 29th he officially became the 74th yokozuna – bravo Hoshoryu
The six-time JUNO award-winning artist will perform at the Wasaga Stars Arena, following Canadian country star Tim Hicks on February 7
“Wasaga Beach is a special community, and not just because it has the longest, most incredible, sandy beach in the world. The beach vibe doesn’t end when the snow comes – residents are warm and welcoming, local businesses roll out the red carpet, and the fans are amazing. This is a town with a long history of appreciating live music.” – Sam Roberts, lead singer/songwriter of the Sam Roberts Band.
Wasaga Beach – Canadian rock star Sam Roberts Band is the latest artist confirmed to light up the Town of Wasaga Beach in 2025. The six-time JUNO Award-winning artist will perform at the Town’s Wasaga Stars Arena on February 8.
Hosted by Wasaga Beach Sports and Entertainment and presented by Rock95 and Stonebridge, this high-energy show will also feature an opening performance by Grant Boyer.
Licensed Bar: A fully licensed bar will be available for attendees of legal drinking age
Limited on-site parking is available: $20 per vehicle (cash only)
Additional quotes
“Wasaga Beach has a rich history of hosting spectacular performances by some of Canada’s – and Ontario’s – greatest musical talent. In 2024, we welcomed rock legends Burton Cummings, Blue Rodeo and Tom Cochrane to town, along with The Strumbellas, the Carpet Frogs, and many other artists,” said Mayor Brian Smith. “In 2025, Wasaga Beach looks forward to continuing this tradition of celebrating live music and home-grown talent. Whether it’s in our state-of-the-art Wasaga Stars Arena, or under the stars on the shores of the world’s longest freshwater beach, we’re ready to serve up more live music experiences and deliver more great memories that will last a lifetime.”
Quick facts
Wasaga Beach is home to the longest freshwater beach in the world. Each year, almost 2 million people visit our iconic Ontario beachfront community to enjoy the beach and take part in local festivals and events, including live music performances by legendary musicians, award-winning artists and up-and-coming Canadian talent.
After eight full-length albums, and hits like Brother Down, We’re All in This Together, and Where Have All the Good People Gone?, the Sam Roberts Band has earned multiple JUNO awards and a place among Canada’s most celebrated rock bands.
As part of this Wasaga Beach live music winter concert series, Tim Hicks is also scheduled to perform at the Wasaga Stars Arena on February 7.
About the Town of Wasaga Beach
The Town of Wasaga Beach is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Ontario and Canada. Our vision is to be a place people come to create memories that will last a lifetime. Large live music events and festivals and programming supports this vision and Council’s priorities: to create opportunities to diversify the economy, create jobs and build a complete community. It’s part of the Town’s plan to become a leader in sustainability, creativity, innovation and fun – a place with thriving businesses and safe, inclusive and complete neighbourhoods, where we celebrate our rich history, diversity of cultures, and natural beauty including the Nottawasaga River, Georgian Bay and the longest freshwater beach in the world.
Collingwood, ON [03 February 2025] – Collingwood Museum staff invite you to visit the museum throughout the month of February! The museum’s newest temporary exhibit, “Timeless Treasures: Celebrating Heritage Architecture and Award-Winning Restorations,” explores Collingwood’s architectural landscape. From the grand designs of local architects to the personal histories that shaped each building, discover the unique tales that make each site a treasured part of our town’s heritage.
Honouring Our Heritage In partnership with the Heritage Advisory Committee, the Collingwood Museum is honoured to display a selection of Heritage Restoration Awards from the past 20 years. As we celebrate the stewardship of heritage throughout the year and Heritage Week from February 17 to 23, we honour the dedication of those who safeguard and invest in these iconic buildings, helping preserve our community’s character and history.
Celebrating Black History Month Celebrate Black History Month by exploring local, regional, and national content on the museum’s website. This year’s theme, Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations, highlights and honours the ongoing contributions of Black communities locally and across Canada. Visit the website regularly for updates and opportunities to engage.
History of Hockey Discover the history of hockey in Collingwood in a temporary offsite exhibit at the Eddie Bush Memorial Arena. This quaint exhibit shares the humble beginnings of both men’s and women’s local hockey and features an artifact recently given to the Town of Collingwood – the Collingwood Blues’ game-winning puck from the 2024 Canadian National Junior A Championship. The exhibit is meant to whet your appetite and includes links to additional resources, including the Stories from Another Day podcast and recent publications featuring the stories of Collingwood’s hockey past and present.
Family Day at the Museum Looking for Family Day fun? The Collingwood Museum will be open on Monday, February 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with free admission for everyone! Bring the whole family to explore interactive scavenger hunts, design your own keepsake button, and dive into local history together. End your visit by entering a draw for a chance to win a free Family Membership!
For full details about the Collingwood Museum’s February offerings, please visit the museum’s website www.collingwood.ca/museum or contact staff at 705-445-4811 Ext. 7211.
