The Town of The Blue Mountains would like to advise residents that a Request for Proposals (RFP) process is currently underway seeking a consultant to support the design and construction of the New Craigleith Fire Hall #2. The deadline for completed RFPs was May 30, 2024. Award of the contract is expected in late June or early July. Details can be found through the Town’s Purchasing & Bid Opportunities web page. The design and engineering work for the new facility is expected to be completed within Q1 of 2025, with construction anticipated to span from Q1 of 2026 to Q1 of 2027.
The existing Craigleith Fire Hall located at 796338 Grey Road 19 was originally built in 1989. Through the Town’s Fire Master Planning process, it has been found that the current facility will be unable to continue meeting the needs of its service area. The new facility will be built at the former Board of Education property south of 796511 Grey Road 19. The new fire hall will be built to better serve and meet the needs of the expanding population and growth in tourism activity within the Craigleith area. The existing fire hall building is planned to be retrofitted as a satellite operations centre to support the Town’s Parks and Trails, and Roads and Drainage Divisions. The Town is also looking at opportunities to incorporate touch-down workspaces for Town staff to use in the Craigleith area.
“This new fire hall represents a huge step for us as a service,” said Fire Chief Steve Conn. “It will ensure our firefighters have the appropriate facilities to continue the critical work they do protecting the Town’s residents and visitors.”
$13.3 Million in funding for the project was approved through the 2024 Town Budget. Funding sources include the Community Services Asset Replacement Reserve Fund, Roads Equipment Asset Replacement Reserve Fund, Fire Asset Replacement Reserve Fund and Fire Development Charges.
Project Background
In early 2021, Town Staff identified the former Board of Education property south of 796511 Grey Road 19 as a potential location for a future town facility. Initial notice was provided to surrounding property owners in June of 2021, and a staff report (FAF.21.106) was brought to Council at that time seeking endorsement, in principle, of pursuing this plan. Over the next two years, staff found that the best use for the property would be an enhanced and larger Fire Hall to replace the existing Craigleith Fire Hall.
To learn more about the project and to subscribe for project updates, please visit the Town’s project page at: www.thebluemountains.ca/NewFireHall
Photo: Piper Al Wallace, Bugler Rob Chamber, Cadets CMWO Michael Loucks, CSgt Ian Loucks, CSgt Diego Anaya, Lt. Navy Rev. Dr. Leslie Fox, RCN Chaplin Lt.(Ret’d) Gerard Buckley, Sargent-at-Arms Ken Templeman, O Canada sang by Bob Woodcock
Honoring the Bravery and Sacrifice of the Soldiers Who Fought on June 6th, 1944
On the hallowed grounds of Normandy, 80 years ago, heroes from around the world united in a historic battle for freedom. Among them were the valiant soldiers of Canada, whose unwavering spirit and bravery shone brightly amidst the chaos of war. On D-Day, June 6th, 1944, they stood shoulder to shoulder with their allies, facing the ultimate test of courage and resolve.
Today, as we reflect on the sacrifices made on that fateful day, let us remember the Canadian soldiers who fought with unwavering determination and valour. Their legacy is intertwined with a tapestry of heroism that will forever be etched in the annals of history. We salute their unwavering commitment to liberty and their selfless service to humanity.
In the remembrance of all fallen soldiers, Canadian or otherwise, we honor you. Lest we forget.
Collingwood Cenotaph Commemoration
Photos: Special Thanks to Marianne Templeman
To learn more about the heroes of D-Day and their incredible stories, visit:
Our Collingwood Firefighters Paying Tribute to Our Heroes. Captain Jesse Bull, Firefighter Cody Zanardo, Captain Ryan Martin, Firefighter Cody Robinson.
Photo: Piper Al Wallace, Bugler Rob Chamber, Cadets CMWO Michael Loucks, CSgt Ian Loucks, CSgt Diego Anaya, Lt. Navy Rev. Dr. Leslie Fox, RCN Chaplin Lt.(Ret’d) Gerard Buckley, Sargent-at-Arms Ken Templeman, O Canada sang by Bob Woodcock
Patrick Bet-David explains the situation currently taking place between Elon Musk, Tesla, and a Delaware judge who recently ruled against Elon receiving a $56 billion payday.
Old news: Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, recently secured a remarkable $56 billion payday as Tesla’s market cap reached new heights. This surge in Musk’s wealth is mainly due to Tesla’s soaring stock prices and its dominant position in the electric vehicle market. Musk’s innovative approaches and ambitious goals have undoubtedly contributed to Tesla’s remarkable success.
For more detailed information on Elon Musk’s $56 billion payday, you can refer to articles from reputable sources like:
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In this episode, Patrick Bet-David explains why Auto Insurance prices are skyrocketing above everything else! Text “PODCAST” to 310-340-1132 to get the latest updates in real-time!
Collingwood, ON [05 June 2024] – The Town of Collingwood is pleased to announce a brand-new seed funding opportunity to help increase the supply of affordable housing in our community. New or existing housing organizations are invited to submit an expression of interest for up to $25,000 in seed funding.
Increasing affordable housing supply in Collingwood is the objective, and this funding is intended to seed a non-profit or not-for-profit that can develop, own, and operate affordable housing in the community.
Affordable housing has been identified as a key priority for Council and staff, as well as the Affordable Housing Task Force. With their support and the leadership from consultants N. Barry Lyon Consultants (NBLC) Ltd., the Affordable Housing Master Plan (AHMP), was developed and endorsed by Council in November 2023. The increasing demand for adequate, affordable housing supply has inspired this recent seed funding opportunity at the request of Council. The Town of Collingwood is currently more than 1,300 rental units short to support the current housing needs locally. Moderate income households are priced out of both the ownership and rental housing market, and a limited rental inventory increases prices, creating a constrained market with few options available.
A non-profit or not-for-profit organization that can receive lands or units from donors, build new or renovate existing structures to create affordable housing, or take advantage of future financial incentives from all levels of government or via social financing, could potentially create opportunities for the development of affordable housing by and for the community using this seed funding. The Town is eager to receive submissions that embrace a collaborative and innovative approach to the use of this seed funding.
“The housing issue cannot be solved by any one group alone. Providing seed funding a not-for-profit or non-profit housing group that can develop a community land trust, co-op or other innovative arrangement, and use government or social financing to build, own and/or operate affordable housing over the long-term would be an asset in our community,” said Mayor Yvonne Hamlin.
The Town is proceeding with a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI) to solicit submissions from new or existing community organizations that are interested in this seed funding. Proponents will identify their needs, challenges, and preferences, which will assist the Town and the Affordable Housing Task Force in developing a set of recommended criteria for allocation of the seed funding. Eligible organizations must be a planned, new or existing charity, not-for-profit, non-profit, or community organization.
Experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl with this Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup.
This delicious and hearty soup boasts a rich texture and a wonderful depth of flavor, thanks to the caramelized roasted cauliflower, garlic, and onions. It’s a wholesome, healthy option that’s perfect for cozy evenings. The smooth, velvety texture will make you savor every spoonful. Garnished with fresh herbs, this soup looks as yummy as it tastes. Enjoy a bowlful of warmth with this delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
1 large cauliflower head, chopped into florets
3 cloves garlic, peeled
1 large onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Adding Cream Cheese Takes It Over The Top!
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the cauliflower florets, garlic cloves, and chopped onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender.
Transfer the roasted vegetables to a large pot. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
Stir in the almond milk and thyme, if using. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Florida is being slammed by rising sea levels, increased flooding, severe storms and extreme heat. Temperatures in the state were above normal every month last year.
Residents are worried. A Florida Atlantic University survey “found that 90 percent of respondents believe climate change is happening” and “Floridians overwhelmingly support more government action to address the impacts of climate change, with 69 percent support for state action and 70 percent support for federal action.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s response is bewilderingly backward. He recently signed legislation, effective July 1, that will remove the term “climate change” from state laws and deny consideration of greenhouse gas impacts from energy policies. The legislation “boosts expansion of natural gas, reduces regulations on gas pipelines in the state, and increases protections against bans on gas appliances such as stoves,” the Guardian reports.
Among other measures, it “will also prohibit the construction of offshore wind turbines in state waters and will repeal state grant programs that encourage energy conservation and renewable energy,” the New York Times reports.
“The legislation I signed today … will keep windmills off our beaches, gas in our tanks, and China out of our state,” DeSantis posted on X (formerly Twitter). “We’re restoring sanity in our approach to energy and rejecting the agenda of the radical green zealots.”
From Alberta to Australia, from state and provincial to national governments, denying or ignoring the life-threatening crisis has become an increasingly common tactic as the reality of climate disruption hits home. But scrubbing all mention of climate change and rolling back measures to address it won’t make it go away.
Many politicians are prioritizing destructive fossil fuel industry interests over those of their constituents. U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, a convicted felon facing even more criminal charges in several jurisdictions, recently asked industry executives from companies including Chevron, ExxonMobil and Occidental Petroleum for US$1 billion in campaign donations in exchange for reducing or discarding climate and pollution policies if he’s elected. Analysis shows the promises could potentially “save the industry $110 billion in tax breaks.”
Mother Jones reports that the U.S. “oil and gas industry benefited disproportionately from tax cuts passed by Trump when he was president in 2017.”
In Canada, Alberta’s government imposed a moratorium and restrictions on renewable energy development, putting “57 projects worth $14-billion at risk of being shelved,” the Pembina Institute says, noting that “32 would generate $80-million a year in potential tax revenue.”
The Globe and Mail reports that, “Dozens of municipalities in Alberta collectively received more than $28-million from wind and solar projects in 2022, according to an analysis by BRC-Canada. Municipalities stood to bring in tax revenues of as much as $277-million annually by 2028 if all projects scheduled before the renewable-energy pause proceeded.”
Meanwhile, the Alberta government continues to promote oilsands and fossil gas development and is celebrating completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, for which the federal government paid C$4.5 billion in tax dollars in 2018, with costs ballooning to $34 billion and rising this year.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith wants to double the province’s oil and gas production. The pipeline, which will substantially increase transport of diluted bitumen from Alberta’s oilsands to the B.C. coast for export, will not only increase deadly climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions as the product is burned, but will also put marine life, including endangered southern resident orcas, at risk.
As emissions rise and the planet continues to heat to dangerous levels, damaging ecosystems, human health and economies, oil companies, banks and governments continue to support industry growth, subsidizing and investing in the industries that are putting human survival in peril, while cracking down on, arresting and disparaging those trying to warn humanity of the devastation we’re facing.
Enough is enough. We must demand more of our political representatives and the news media, and expose the greedy fossil fuel industry’s lethal attacks on humanity. We must rethink our obsession with profit and economic growth above everything.
Ignoring the problem will only lock in greater hardships for all life.
David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with David Suzuki Foundation Senior Writer and Editor Ian Hanington.
EXCERPT: From Alberta to Australia, from state and provincial to national governments, denying or ignoring the life-threatening crisis has become an increasingly common tactic as the reality of climate disruption hits home.
KEY WORDS: climate change, oil, gas, wind solar, Trans Mountain pipeline, Donald Trump, Alberta,
The Nottawasaga Lighthouse Preservation Society (NLPS)
Donations must be made via www.CanadaHelps.org. Minimum $3 donation required.
Eligible Charities will automatically receive one (1) entry for each dollar donated to the Eligible Charity through CanadaHelps.org, including the CanadaHelps direct site for Canadians, customizable donation pages, P2P, events and other campaign pages created by a registered Canadian charity using the CanadaHelps system, and monthly donations processed during the challenge period (each, an “Entry” or collectively, “Entries”).
Contest runs from June 1, 2024 at midnight Newfoundland Daylight Time (NDT) to June 30, 2024 at 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).
One of six “Imperial Towers” built on the Great Lakes, the Nottawasaga Lighthouse has been an iconic local landmark for over 150 years. With its impressive masonry construction and intricate finishing details of European origin, the Nottawasaga Lighthouse has provided safe passage for both commercial ships and recreational boaters around the treacherous shoals and shallow waters that guard the entrance to Collingwood’s harbour.
Having saved countless lives through its 159 year history, the life of the Nottawasaga Lighthouse is now endangered itself and needs saving. Lighthouses such as this have played an integral role in Canada’s maritime history and in particular, Collingwood’s Shipbuilding past. Although no longer a “lighted” navigational aid, the mere physical presence of this towering structure serves to assist recreational boaters in visually navigating their way safety back to the safe harbour in Collingwood both in good weather and in bad.
The Nottawasaga Lighthouse Preservation Society (NLPS) is a registered charity dedicated to the restoration and protection of the Nottawasaga Island Lighthouse. Preserving its history for present and future generations of Canadians to enjoy while ensuring its role as a navigational landmark continues.
We need your help to preserve this unique part of Canada’s Great Lakes history. Joining the NLPS as a MEMBER is FREE, make a DONATION or VOLUNTEER to help in whatever capacity you feel comfortable with.
To learn more about the past history and current status of this unique piece of Canada’s maritime heritage, please visit the HISTORY page of this website or CONTACT US for further information as to how you can help us in our Mission to save this unique and iconic structure.
Collingwood, ON – In 2018 the federal government introduced the Jewish Heritage Month Act, designating the month of May as a time to recognize the important contributions that Jewish Canadians have made to Canada’s social, economic, political, and cultural fabric. Through the initiative of the Southern Georgian Bay Jewish Community is fortunate to have two Jewish Heritage Month events relaunching the Town of Collingwood ‘Telling our Stories’ initiative. Collectively, these events focus on sharing experiences and contributions of Jewish people in Canada.
Visit the Collingwood Museum from June 1 to June 14 and explore the Canadian Jewish Experience, a special exhibit curated as part of the Canada 150 initiative which has travelled across Canada telling the story of the Jewish community’s history.
The exhibit includes 9 panels, including eight thematic sections exploring, through photos and text, Jewish trailblazers in arts and culture, public service, sports, military, human rights, commerce, and more. To learn more, visit the CJE website.
On Friday, June 7th Holocaust Survivor Renate Krakauer will speak at the Simcoe Street Theatre at 11:00 a.m. sharing her family’s story to build awareness and understanding of our shared history. To reserve a seat please contact Rashell Feldman at [email protected].
Jewish Heritage Month was established with an understanding of the importance of building awareness and providing opportunities for education. Education is the key to dismantling discriminatory beliefs and working collectively to eliminate antisemitism.
About the South Georgian Bay Jewish Community (SGSBJC)
In the Southern Georgian Bay region, there are more than 350 Jewish members of our community. Recognizing a growing need, Rashell and Dr. Michael Feldman established the South Georgian Bay Jewish Community to offer additional supports after the events on October 7th and the increase in antisemitism globally. Since unfolding what has been an amazing outpouring of interest, support, and involvement by so many. An executive committee of dedicated volunteers has been formed to develop opportunities to celebrate, connect, and educate. The Town of Collingwood and the Town of Wasaga Beach have recently adopted the IHRA’s definition of antisemitism. To learn more, visit the SGBJC website.
In the vibrant and bustling Zócalo square of Mexico City, thousands of citizens gathered to witness the historic inauguration of their new president, Claudia Sheinbaum. The atmosphere was alive with excitement and hope for the future. For Claudia, this day marked the culmination of years of dedication and unwavering commitment to her country.
Claudia Sheinbaum’s path to the presidency began in the colorful neighborhoods of Mexico City. Born and raised in the capital, Claudia was deeply influenced by her parents, who were both academics and activists. They instilled in her a passion for education and social justice. After earning a degree in physics from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) [^1], Claudia pursued a career that combined her scientific acumen with her desire to effect positive change.
She emerged as a prominent figure in environmental and urban development issues, becoming a key contributor to Mexico City’s sustainability initiatives. Her work as the city’s Environment Secretary showcased her ability to implement large-scale projects with tangible benefits, such as the transformation of the capital’s public transportation system [^2].
In 2018, Claudia broke barriers by becoming the first woman elected as the head of government of Mexico City [^3]. Her tenure was marked by a focus on reducing inequality, improving public safety, and enhancing the city’s infrastructure. Her pragmatic approach and dedication to the well-being of her constituents earned her widespread acclaim and set the stage for her presidential campaign.
During her presidential campaign, Claudia promised to bring the same level of dedication and effective governance to the national stage. Her platform centered around sustainable development, social equality, and tackling corruption. Her vision resonated with millions of citizens who were eager for a leader who could bring about meaningful change.
On the day of Claudia’s inauguration as the President of Mexico, the crowd in Zócalo square erupted in cheers as she took the stage. The sun shone brightly, symbolizing the dawn of a new era. Claudia began her speech with a heartfelt message:
“Today, we embark on a journey together—a journey towards a Mexico that embraces its potential and cares for all its people. We will prioritize sustainable development, ensuring that our progress does not come at the expense of our environment. We will strive for social equality, so that every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. We will combat corruption, because trust in our institutions is fundamental to our democracy.”
The audience responded with thunderous applause, their optimism and faith in their new president palpable. Claudia spoke with conviction about the importance of unity and shared responsibility in building a better Mexico. She emphasized that the success of her administration would rely on the participation and cooperation of all citizens.
In her first months in office, President Sheinbaum launched comprehensive initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and environmental protection [^4]. Her administration worked to ensure that marginalized communities received equitable resources and attention. Her efforts to enhance transparency and reduce corruption began to restore the public’s confidence in the government.
Through tireless work and a commitment to her values, Claudia Sheinbaum started to transform Mexico. Schools were renovated, healthcare services improved, and sustainable practices were integrated into national policies. The economy began to show signs of revitalization as local businesses thrived under new support programs.
As the years passed, Claudia’s leadership demonstrated that progress and compassion could coexist. Her policies fostered a sense of national pride and unity, and her story became a beacon of inspiration for countless others aspiring to make a difference.
President Claudia Sheinbaum’s legacy was cemented as a leader who brought hope and transformation to Mexico. Her journey from a dedicated activist to the highest office in the land illustrated the power of perseverance and the impact of true leadership.
How We Got To Jersey: A Tale Of Two Frankies is a brand-new musical concert telling the behind-the-scenes story of playing Frankie Valli in the smash-hit Jersey Boys.
Starring Jeff Madden (Frankie Valli – Toronto, Australia), and Adrian Marchuk (Frankie Valli – Toronto, Las Vegas), and with musical arrangements by Mark Camilleri, How We Got To Jersey takes you on a whirlwind tour from Toronto to New York and around the world, while taking audiences through all the big hits from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
It is fascinating and funny and packed with the greatest music. This is a night you will remember, with a brilliant four piece band, plus Adrian Marchuk and Jeff Madden out front.
