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More Good News | Building a Safer, Stronger Downtown

John Malloy
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More Good News | Building a Safer, Stronger Downtown

(COLLINGWOOD and THE BLUE MOUNTAINS, ON) The Collingwood and The Blue Mountains Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recently created the Community Engagement and Enforcement Team (CEET) initiative to increase police presence and proactive community engagement by enhancing foot and bicycle patrols in the downtown core of Collingwood, Thornbury and the Blue Mountain Village.

During those patrols officers will engage with businesses owners/employees and members of the public and in doing so will be a proactive presence creating a positive experience for individuals visiting the targeted locations.

The Collingwood/The Blue Mountains OPP partnered with key stakeholders in Collingwood, Thornbury and the Blue Mountain Village to identify priorities and create collaborative solutions to theft and violent crime incidents which can take a toll on the vitality and safety in downtown core and impact local businesses and community confidence.

Through a successful application to the Provincial Priorities Funding Stream of the 2025-26 Community Safety and Policing (CSP) grant, we are launching a multi-faceted initiative to:

Build a sustainable, community driven crime reduction strategy rooted in collaboration and shared responsibility, one that would improve safety and community confidence focusing on regular foot patrol, bicycle patrol, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) and the enhancement of proactive community policing.

Guided by data and community input, these efforts aim to reduce crime, enhance public safety, and restore a vibrant downtown for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

Together, we can make our community safer.

Mayor Andrea Matrosovs Acclaimed to Second Term as Grey County Warden

John Malloy
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Mayor Andrea Matrosovs Acclaimed to Second Term as Grey County Warden

The Town of The Blue Mountains is pleased to share that Mayor Andrea Matrosovs has been acclaimed as Grey County Warden and will serve her second term in the role. Mayor Matrosovs was acclaimed at the Grey County Council inaugural meeting on December 2, 2025.

In her inaugural address, Matrosovs expressed a desire to build on the progress made in her first year as Warden, highlighting the importance of strengthening relationships across municipal boundaries, including with Indigenous partners and neighbouring rural communities. She also reinforced her commitment to strong advocacy at the provincial and federal levels on behalf of Grey County and other small, rural communities.

“When I am meeting with regional colleagues, provincial MPPs, Ministers and MPs in Ottawa, I am speaking not just with the voice of our nine municipalities but for small towns and rural communities from all over Ontario in the Great Lakes watershed,” said Matrosovs. “Beside the big city Mayors, MPPs and MPs from other areas of the province, it is important that we bring that rural lens to the table.”

The Grey County Warden leads County Council, represents the County at official events, and presides over Council meetings to ensure business is conducted efficiently and effectively. The Warden also serves on the Western Ontario Warden’s Caucus and participates on other boards. The election of the Warden takes place each December, when Grey County Council elects one of its members to serve for the upcoming year. This term, Warden Matrosovs was nominated by Councillor Keaveney of the Municipality of Meaford and Councillor Boddy of the City of Owen Sound.

Matrosovs is the third woman to be elected Warden and the third representative from the Town of The Blue Mountains to serve as County Warden, following Duncan McKinlay from 2012-2013 and Rod Knott in 2001. 

For additional information and for a copy of the Warden’s Inaugural Address, view the Grey County release. 

DISTRACTED DRIVING AND IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT YIELDS SIGNIFICANT RESULTS

John Malloy
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DISTRACTED DRIVING AND IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT YIELDS SIGNIFICANT RESULTS

(WASAGA BEACH, SPRINGWATER AND CLEARVIEW TOWNSHIPS, ON) Officers from the Huronia West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are committed to keeping local roads safe through proactive enforcement and education. Recent initiatives focused on distracted driving and impaired driving, two of the leading causes of serious collisions in Ontario.

From Monday, November 24, to Sunday, November 30, 2025, Huronia West OPP Officers conducted focused distracted driving enforcement. During this week-long initiative, officers targeted high-risk behaviours that put lives at risk. As a result of this initiative, over 100 charges were laid:

  • Distracted Driving (hand-held devices): 73
  • Speeding: 25
  • Seatbelt Violations: 8
  • Impaired Driving: 7

Distracted driving remains a serious concern. In 2024, 82 people died on Ontario highways due to drivers who weren’t paying attention, which is a 43% increase from 2023. It is illegal to operate handheld devices or view screens unrelated to driving. Penalties increase significantly for repeat offences, and novice drivers face a 30-day suspension for a single conviction.

Additionally, as part of the annual Festive RIDE Campaign, Huronia West OPP officers have been conducting roadside checks to deter impaired driving and will continue these efforts well into the new year. The campaign began on November 20, 2025 and, to date, Huronia West officers have conducted 86 RIDE checks, resulting in 10 impaired-related charges. The Festive RIDE campaign runs until January 1, 2026, with officers maintaining a strong presence throughout the holiday season. 

The OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead for a safe ride home: never drive impaired. Arrange for a designated driver, use public transportation, or call a ride service. If you suspect someone is driving impaired, call 911 immediately.

Ontario Fire Code Expands Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

John Malloy
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Ontario Fire Code Expands Carbon Monoxide Alarm Requirements

The Town of The Blue Mountains Fire Department would like to advise residents of upcoming changes to the Ontario Fire Code. As of January 1, 2026, the Ontario Fire Code is introducing new requirements for carbon monoxide alarms in residential properties.

  • In homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace, or an attached garage, alarms will now be required on every storey, not just near sleeping areas.
  • In homes where forced air heat comes from a fuel burning appliance located outside the home, alarms will now be required on every storey.
  • In multi-unit residential buildings, alarms must be installed in all suites meeting certain conditions, service rooms, and, in some cases, public corridors.
  • In care facilities and certain group homes, alarms will be required in suites and common areas. 

Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer due to its nature – it is odourless, colourless and tasteless. Exposure can cause serious health issues and even death, and it is the leading cause of accidental poisonings in Ontario. It is undetectable without a carbon monoxide alarm, making working alarms crucial for saving lives. 

Carbon monoxide is produced when you burn any type of fuel, and it can be found both indoors and outdoors. It is lighter than air and can move freely throughout indoor spaces. Carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are similar to symptoms for many other illnesses and may go unnoticed or undetected without carbon monoxide alarms. 

Carbon monoxide alarms are a life-saving early warning system against carbon monoxide. Working carbon monoxide alarms alert you to the presence of potentially dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in your home and can prevent poisoning or even death. Fuel sources where carbon monoxide alarms are required include natural gas, propane, fuel oil, wood or wood products. 

The Blue Mountains Fire Department urges all residents to follow the new Fire Code regulations and install additional carbon monoxide alarms where required. 

For more information, visit: Carbon Monoxide Safety | Province of Ontario 

Honouring Gloria Culbert’s Legacy: Supporting Affordable Housing and Homelessness

John Malloy
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Honouring Gloria Culbert’s Legacy: Supporting Affordable Housing and Homelessness

Collingwood, ON [11 December 2025] – Gloria Culbert was a true community champion with a charitable heart dedicated to helping vulnerable people in our community. Known throughout Collingwood as a ray of sunshine, residents fondly remember her riding her bicycle around town with a basket full of flowers and a big smile on her face. Gloria was deeply engaged in arts and culture, tai chi, and had many friends in Town.

Upon her passing in 2019, Ms. Culbert generously named three beneficiaries in her will: the Town of Collingwood, Habitat for Humanity, and Home Horizon. Her wish was to continue assisting vulnerable individuals in need of affordable housing through her residence at 167 Third Street.

After a lengthy legal process, the property was sold under the direction of a court-appointed trustee, and the proceeds have now been distributed equally among the three beneficiaries. Each organization will receive $128,401.17 to advance programs that address homelessness and affordable housing needs in Collingwood.

Town of Collingwood
“We are deeply grateful for Gloria Culbert’s generosity and her vision to support vulnerable members of our community. The Town will use this gift to advance affordable housing initiatives and improve the quality of life for residents in Collingwood. This contribution aligns perfectly with our commitment to creating attainable housing solutions and fostering a strong, inclusive community.”
— Yvonne Hamlin, Mayor, Town of Collingwood

Home Horizon
“We are honoured to receive this generous gift from Gloria Culbert’s estate. These funds will directly support our programs for homeless and at-risk youth, including transitional housing and outreach services. Gloria’s kindness will help us provide safety, stability, and hope for young people in our community who need it most.”
— Steven Pelletier, Executive Director, Home Horizon

Habitat for Humanity
“Gloria Culbert’s legacy will help us continue our mission of providing affordable homes for families in need. With this support, we can empower low-income families to build strength, stability, and independence through homeownership. Her gift will make a lasting impact by helping families break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for their children.”
— Robert Cikoja, CEO, Habitat for Humanity Huronia

This generous gift will enable all three organizations to advance their missions in meaningful ways. The Town of Collingwood will invest in initiatives that expand affordable housing options and strengthen community well-being, as prioritized in the Town’s Affordable Housing Master Plan. Habitat for Humanity will use its share to help families achieve safe, stable homeownership, while Home Horizon will direct funds toward programs that provide shelter and support for homeless and at-risk youth. Together, these efforts honour Gloria Culbert’s vision of creating a more caring and inclusive Collingwood.

Who REALLY Are The Sikhs? | Sacrifice, Philosophy & Power

John Malloy
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Who REALLY Are The Sikhs? | Sacrifice, Philosophy & Power

Today, we explore the heart of Sikhism. We cover various concepts like the 5 theives, the beliefs of Sikhism, The 3 Pillars and other interesting aspects of Sikhism!

WELCOME TO RELIGION CAMP 🏕️ Make Sure To Follow ‪@History-Camp‬

Source: GROK

Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in the late 15th century in the Punjab region of what is now India and Pakistan by Guru Nanak Dev Ji, who was born in 1469 CE. Rejecting the caste system and ritualistic practices prevalent in Hinduism and Islam at the time, Guru Nanak emphasized the oneness of God (Waheguru) and the equality of all human beings, regardless of gender, caste, or religion. The faith developed under a succession of ten human Gurus, with the tenth, Guru Gobind Singh, establishing the Khalsa Panth in 1699 CE—a community of baptized Sikhs committed to upholding justice and righteousness. After Guru Gobind Singh’s passing in 1708, the eternal Guru was vested in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy scripture, which serves as the central religious authority.

Core beliefs of Sikhism revolve around the concepts of Ik Onkar (one God), Naam Japna (meditation on God’s name), Kirat Karna (honest living through hard work), and Vand Chakna (sharing with others). Sikhs view life as a journey toward merging with the divine, guided by principles of humility, compassion, and social justice, while rejecting superstition and idol worship. The religion promotes gender equality, with women holding equal status in spiritual and community matters, and it has no formal priesthood, encouraging direct personal connection with God.

Practices in Sikhism include daily prayers, community worship in gurdwaras (Sikh temples), and the langar, a free communal kitchen where people of all backgrounds eat together to symbolize equality. Initiated Sikhs, known as Amritdhari, adhere to the Five Ks: Kesh (uncut hair), Kangha (comb), Kara (steel bracelet), Kachera (cotton undergarment), and Kirpan (ceremonial sword), which represent discipline, cleanliness, eternity, morality, and defense of the weak. Today, Sikhism has around 25-30 million followers worldwide, with significant communities in India, Canada, the UK, and the US, and it continues to emphasize seva (selfless service) as a key to spiritual growth.

HURONIA WEST OPP HOSTS THEIR ANNUAL SHOP WITH A COP EVENT

John Malloy
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HURONIA WEST OPP HOSTS THEIR ANNUAL SHOP WITH A COP EVENT

(TOWN OF WASAGA BEACH, CLEARVIEW AND SPRINGWATER TOWNSHIPS, ON) – On Sunday, December 7, 2025, members from the Huronia West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the Wasaga Beach Fire Department and the Wasaga Beach Municipal Law Enforcement and Property Standards Department, had the privilege of pairing up with students from local area schools to participate in our annual “Shop with a Cop” event at the Canadian Tire in the Town of Wasaga Beach.

Each school in the Town of Wasaga Beach, Township of Springwater and Township of Clearview was asked to select two students to participate in the event.

Each student had the chance to spend time with an OPP officer, firefighter, or bylaw officer while they participated in holiday shopping. They were able to choose gifts for their families, pets and even pick out something special for themselves. Every student received a set amount of money generously donated by local businesses, community clubs, and private sponsors. Huronia West Detachment is grateful to have been the recipient of the Tim Horton’s Holiday Smile Cookie Campaign and extends a thank-you to everyone who purchased a Smile Cookie in Wasaga Beach and supported this initiative. Another special thank you goes to Canadian Tire Wasaga Beach and their incredible staff for hosting the shopping portion of the event and generously matching all funds raised for the students’ shopping budget, making this experience even more memorable.

After shopping, the students and volunteers boarded a bus to Station One Fire Hall in Wasaga Beach for a festive celebration. Wasaga Beach firefighters prepared and served a delicious breakfast, and the morning was filled with holiday activities: photos with Santa Claus, face painting, creating Christmas cards for their families, decorating a Christmas tree, and making holiday cookies and ornaments. While everyone enjoyed this fun-filled event, volunteers worked behind the scenes to wrap, tag, and pack all the gifts into bags, ready for the students to take home.

The Huronia West OPP would like to sincerely thank all the volunteers and the following businesses, clubs, and individuals who helped to make this event a great success and a day that these students will cherish forever.

  • Canadian Tire – Wasaga Beach
  • Tim Horton’s – Wasaga Beach (Smile Cookie Campaign)
  • Lake Side Auto – Wasaga Beach
  • Landmark Bus Lines
  • Foodland – Wasaga Beach
  • Carruthers and Davidson Funeral Home
  • Elmvale Lions Club
  • Stayner Lions Club
  • OPP Youth Foundation
  • Beach Booster – Wasaga Beach
  • Home Depot – Collingwood
  • Individual community members (private donations)

We look forward to next year’s “Shop with a Cop” event! Wishing everyone a joyous and safe holiday season.

MILTON MENACE TO HOST OJHL ALL-STAR CELEBRATION ON JAN. 18  

John Malloy
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MILTON MENACE TO HOST OJHL ALL-STAR CELEBRATION ON JAN. 18  

Community events part of day-long festivities

December 10, 2025, Mississauga, ON – The Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) is excited to announce that Milton Memorial Arena and the Milton Menace of the OJHL will host the 2026 OJHL All-Star Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 18.


The marquee event, featuring the best talent – East vs West all-conference teams – from across the 24-team circuit, promises to deliver an exciting showcase of skill and speed when puck drops shortly after 2:30 p.m.
Tickets and prices will be announced via a release and will go on sale Dec. 18.


“The OJHL is excited about bringing our top 40 players to showcase them in Milton for the league’s All-Star Celebration,” said Marty Savoy, Commissioner of the OJHL. “Stephanie and Jason Tryfon have done an outstanding job in re-positioning Junior A hockey within the town of Milton and we look forward to having some of the greatest fans in the OJHL come out and support all our players.”


The All-Star Celebration extends beyond the on-ice action, with the day’s festivities beginning and ending with community events at 1 and 5\ p.m. Details will be announced shortly.


“We’re incredibly proud that Milton has been selected to host this year’s All-Star Game,” said Jason Tryfon, Governor of the Milton Menace. “This community shows up in a way that’s rare in sports these days. Our fans don’t just fill an arena, they create an atmosphere.

“The passion Miltonians bring every night is electric, and it’s a big reason why our town has become one of the most exciting hockey markets in the province. This event is a celebration of the players, our families and the culture we’ve built together, and we’re thrilled to welcome the league and its players to showcase what makes Milton special.”


The OJHL All-Star event hopes to tap into the community of Milton and offer an event prior to the big game as well as other support.
The main event gets underway at 2:00 p.m. when the league’s all-stars take the ice for warm-ups, giving fans an up-close look at the pre-game routines of junior hockey’s rising stars.


Between periods, the celebration will feature the next generation of local hockey talent.  During the first intermission, minor hockey Initiation Program Timbits players will hit the ice for a five-minute game, while the second intermission will feature a Minor Hockey Showdown.


The All-Star Game rosters will feature players who have distinguished themselves through the first half of the 2024-25 season, representing the scoring leaders, defensive stalwarts and goaltending standouts from across the league’s two conferences.
Rosters and coaching and support staffs for the two teams will be announced in early January.


“Milton Memorial Arena, home of the OJHL’s Milton Menace, provides an ideal setting for the celebration, offering modern facilities and strong community support that has made it a fixture on the junior hockey landscape,” said Rick Morocco, VP Business Operations OJHL.

EVENT DETAILS
Date: Sunday, January 18, 2025
Location: Milton Memorial Arena, Milton, ON
Schedule:
1:00 p.m. – Community Event
2:00 p.m. – All-Star Warm-ups Begin
2:30 p.m. – Opening Ceremonies, Puck Drop
5:00 p.m. – Community Event

About the OJHL – “League of Choice”
The Ontario Junior Hockey League is the largest Junior ‘A’ league operating under the auspices of the Canadian Junior Hockey League with 24 member clubs. A proud member of the CJHL and Ontario Hockey Association, the OJHL was originally named the Ontario Provincial Junior ‘A’ Hockey League and it was formed out of the Central Junior ‘B’ Hockey League in 1993-94. With a long and storied history of developing players for the next level, including U SPORTS, the NCAA, CHL, minor pro ranks and the NHL, the OJHL had more than 135 commitments in 2024-25, including 54 to NCAA Division 1 and 29 to the Ontario Hockey League. In addition, the OJHL had 39 OHL Affiliate Players who played 152 OHL games.  Thirty OJHL alumni were playing in the NHL at the start of the 2025-26 season.

For more information on the Ontario Junior Hockey League, please visit www.ojhl.ca

OPP URGES CAUTION NEAR BODIES OF WATER

John Malloy
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OPP URGES CAUTION NEAR BODIES OF WATER

(ORILLIA, ON) – As winter conditions set in, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is urging extreme caution near bodies of water. Even when lakes or rivers appear frozen, remember, no ice is safe ice.

Early-season ice is often dangerously thin and unpredictable. While some people enjoy snowmobiling or motorized recreational vehicles on frozen lakes and waterways, current ice conditions greatly increase the risk of breaking through the ice and experiencing cold-water immersion, which can become life-threatening within minutes. Taking unnecessary risks not only endangers individuals but also puts emergency responders in harm’s way during rescue efforts.

The OPP is urging the public to take every precaution to ensure a safe and enjoyable season. In particular, snowmobilers and those out enjoying motorized recreational vehicles are reminded to:

·        Remain on designated trails.

·        Avoid unfamiliar areas, particularly at night.

·        Check the weather and trail conditions before you leave.

·        Wear appropriate clothing to prevent hypothermia.

·        Ensure your cellphone is fully charged.

·        Consider downloading the what3words app. This app aids first responders in pinpointing your location if you need help.

·        Never go out alone. Always tell someone your planned destination and your expected time of return.

·        Do not drink alcohol or consume drugs while on snowmobiles or other motorized vehicles. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reduce your body’s ability to stay warm in cold conditions.

·        Carry safety equipment such as ice picks and throw ropes in case you find yourself in an unsafe situation. Response time from emergency personnel may be prolonged due to the weather conditions, and these tools can assist you while you wait for help to arrive.

·        Regularly inspect your snowmobile or other motorized vehicles to make sure it is in good mechanical condition.

·        Bring a first-aid kit and a survival kit.

If someone falls through the ice, call 911 immediately. Safe rescue efforts require appropriate equipment and training. You cannot help anyone if your safety is also at risk.

Make safety your priority this winter season. Take necessary steps to ensure you return home safely to your loved ones after a day enjoying the winter weather.

In an emergency, call 911. For non-emergency police matters, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. 

MEAFORD: The Ontario Town EVERYONE is Moving To! (Here’s Why) 🏡✨

John Malloy
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MEAFORD: The Ontario Town EVERYONE is Moving To! (Here’s Why) 🏡✨

Discover why this Georgian Bay stunner is quickly becoming Ontario’s hottest relocation spot — attracting Torontonians, retirees, and remote workers alike!

In this video, we’ll take you on a cinematic journey through Meaford, Ontario, showing exactly why this small waterfront town is turning heads across the province. Whether you’re looking to visit for the weekend or make a move for good, Meaford has something special waiting for you. The Wandering Travellers

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