This message applies district‑wide across the MNR Bracebridge–Minden–Parry Sound
District, including portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka, and County of
Haliburton. All watersheds within the district are affected, including the Severn, Boyne,
Black, French, Gull, Pickerel, Seguin, South, Magnetawan, and Muskoka River
watersheds.

The locations of greatest concern at this time, due to ongoing high water impacts, include:
• Lake Muskoka
• Lake Rosseau & Lake Joseph
• Moon River including Bala Reach
• Gull River watershed including community of Minden
• French River & Pickerel River

Several areas are experiencing elevated water levels and flows. In some locations, levels
are comparable to those observed in 2019 and may result in localized infrastructure
impacts and flooding.

Residents and visitors should anticipate lake and river water levels to continue to stabilize
over the next week, with decreases possible in some locations.

Municipalities hold primary responsibility for emergency response to flood events, including
protecting residents and property, undertaking first response actions, and coordinating
recovery.

Go to https://www.ontario.ca/page/floods and your local municipality for more information.
Residents that have been affected by high water and flow conditions in the past should
continue to take necessary action to protect or secure any vulnerable property in proximity
to rivers and lakes and closely monitor developing conditions.

Lower-lying portions of known flood-prone areas may be impacted to varying degrees.
MNR also advises extreme caution when using forest access roads for outdoor activities, as
many are seasonally inundated with water and prone to washouts. These roads may be
impassable.

Slippery stream banks and fast-flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around
all water bodies. Residents are reminded to keep a close watch on weather conditions,
regularly check for updated messages, exercise caution near fast-moving rivers and
streams and maintain close supervision of children and pets.
The ministry is closely monitoring the weather and developing watershed conditions.
Further updates will be issued as appropriate.

The 7-day weather forecast is predicting daytime highs of 5°C to 11°C and overnight lows
between -2°C and 6°C with up to 30 mm of rainfall.
Some areas remain vulnerable to additional impacts should significant rainfall occur.

River levels and flows within areas of the district remain elevated and are expected to
persist across many locations.
Although water levels on several lakes have declined toward more normal operating
ranges, some lakes remain well above normal levels.
Remaining snowpack is limited and is expected to have minimal impact on runoff.

The post MNR Adds More Locations And Extends Flood Warning Until Wednesday May 6th appeared first on Muskoka411.

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Muskoka, ON – The District of Muskoka is reconstructing King William Street from Scott Street to Highway 60. The project is scheduled to start as early as late spring and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.  

To stay informed, residents are encouraged to visit www.engagemuskoka.ca/king-william to sign up for project updates straight to their inbox.   

The project is part of the District’s investment in essential systems that make housing possible and will increase capacity to support 3,200 new homes in the Town of Huntsville. 

Replacement and upgrades to aging water, wastewater and transportation infrastructure will boost housing and the economy locally and support the long-term health of Muskoka’s lakes, rivers and communities. 

“Building homes starts long before the construction of actual houses. The King William Street reconstruction project is an excellent example of this,” said Jeff Lehman, District of Muskoka Chair. “By replacing the old road surface and underground pipes, we are ensuring the services we need today keep working, while also making intersections safer, improving access for everyone, and preparing the area for future homes and new development.” 

Work will include removing and replacing: 

• Aboveground: road, traffic signals  
• Underground: sanitary and storm sewers, watermains 
• Streetscape: curbs, sidewalks, boulevards 

What the Community Needs to Know   

Traffic Impacts  

• To allow this work to be completed safely and efficiently, parts of King William Street will be partially closed and limited to one-way traffic. 

Access Maintained 

• Access to all businesses will be maintained during construction. 
• A dedicated lane will be maintained for all emergency vehicles. 
• Pedestrian crossings at Rogers Cove Drive and the Huntsville Place Mall entrance will remain open. 

Updates and Scheduling 

• Municipal 511 will be updated to help keep Google Maps and Waze current. 
• Delays may occur due to unforeseen conditions. The District will provide advance notice where possible.  
• Residents can visit  www.engagemuskoka.ca/king-william to sign up for project updates or submit comments or questions.   

Construction Café 

• Residents are invited to attend the project’s first Construction Café on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at Henrietta’s Pine Bakery at 92 King William Street in Huntsville. 
• Residents can drop in to this relaxed, casual session any time between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to enjoy a free coffee with the project team, while discussing reconstruction updates and asking questions. 

The District recognizes construction can be disruptive for residents, motorists, and businesses, and thanks residents for their patience during this important project.  

The post King William Street Being Reconstructed From Scott Street To Hwy. 60 In Huntsville appeared first on Muskoka411.

The annual, peer-nominated awards recognize staff and teams who go above and beyond to deliver exceptional patient care, demonstrate outstanding leadership, and embody MAHC’s values in meaningful and impactful ways. From everyday acts of compassion to innovative approaches that strengthen care delivery, the awards shine a light on the people who make a difference across the organization.

This year marked an exciting evolution of the program, with the introduction of three new individual awards including the Staff Leadership Award and the Credentialed Staff Clinical Excellence Award, as well as two new team categories: the Extraordinary Caring Team Award and the Collaborative Team Award. These additions reflect MAHC’s continued commitment to recognizing excellence across all areas of care and teamwork.

“These awards are about more than recognition—they are about celebrating the extraordinary dedication and compassion our teams bring to patient care every single day,” said Dave Uffelmann, Chair of the MAHC Board of Directors. “They provide an opportunity for staff to recognize one another and highlight the incredible moments of leadership, collaboration, innovation, and kindness in supporting patients, families, and our communities. Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and award recipients.”

The winners of the 2026 Board of Excellence awards are:

• Staff Excellence Awards –
  • The late Georgina (Ginny) Metcalf, Unit Aide
  • Laura Weston, RN, ICU
  • Steven Lui, Charge Respiratory Therapist

• Credentialed Staff Clinical Excellence Award – Dr. Nick Biasutti, Chief Medical Information Officer

• Staff Leadership Award – Anthony Caradonna, Clinical Leader, Emergency Department
• Credentialed Staff Leadership Award – Dr. Carmen Baker, Physician, Rehab/Stroke
• Extraordinary Caring Team Award – ICU Team
• Collaborative Team Award – Mammography Team

A particularly heartfelt moment of the evening was the recognition of award recipient Ginny Metcalfe, whose impact continues to be deeply felt across South Muskoka Memorial Hospital. Ginny, who passed away earlier this year, was remembered as a bright light known for her enthusiasm, kindness, and unwavering compassion for both patients and colleagues. Whether bringing joy as Mrs. Claus or offering support in everyday moments, she had a remarkable ability to make people smile. Ginny received three separate nominations in recognition of the difference she made.

MAHC is also proud to recognize all nominees for their dedication to delivering exceptional care and contributing to a positive, supportive culture across the organization.

Individual Nominations

• Aaron Hammond, Maintenance

• Aimee Brodie, Senior Imaging Technologist
• Alyson Frausel, Human Resources Business Partner
• Carter Veitch, Ward Clerk
• Bert Fazackerley, Environmental Services Aide
• Dr. Luke Wu, Physician, ICU
• Emily Staughton, RN, Obstetrics
• Fiorella Ceglie, Environmental Services Aide
• Grant Waymouth, Central Patient Scheduling & Registration Clerk
• Jenna Fiorini, RN, Emergency Department
• Jenny Pidlubney, Team Leader, Emergency Department
• Jonathan Clarke, Respiratory Therapist
• Kali Robinson, Team Leader, ICU
• Kelly Dawson, Team Leader, Surgical Services
• Kim Bauer, RN, Emergency Department.
• Leanne Gray, Director, Human Resources
• Lee-Anne Murphy, RN, Med/Surg
• Lindsay Bishop, Manager, Surgical Services & MDRD
• Lorrie McManus, Nurse & Technician, OR
• Marilyne Gagnon, Lead Hand, Environmental Services
• Miranda Ralph, Activation Coordinator
• Pauline Pearsall, Senior Lab Technologist
• Sheila Quinton, RN, Emergency Department
• Tristin Sutherland, Med-Surgery

Team Nominations

• Infection Prevention and Control Unit
• OPSEU Paramedical Bargaining Team
• Ontario Telemedicine Network Team
• Transitional Care Unit
• Emergency Department, South Muskoka Memorial Hospital

Past recipients are also posted on the MAHC website.

The post Outstanding Patient-Care Celebrated At Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare Board Awards Of Excellence appeared first on Muskoka411.

As seen in CFIB’s Canada’s Entrepreneurial Drought, Part 1: The Shrinking Business Landscape report, business exits in Canada have outpaced new business entries since early 2024, and the problem seems to be getting worse. In the second quarter of 2025, exit rates reached 5.6%, while entry rates fell to 4.8% in Q4 2025, marking some of the highest closure rates and weakest startup activity outside the pandemic.

Today, CFIB is releasing Part 2 of the report series, Canada’s Entrepreneurial Drought, Part 2: Fixing Canada’s Shrinking Business Landscape, which outlines practical reforms to reverse the drought and improve Canada’s business environment.

“Tomorrow’s federal spring economic statement is an opportunity for the federal government to address Canada’s entrepreneurial drought and restore small business confidence,” said Michelle Auger, CFIB director of trade and marketplace competitiveness. “Governments have spent years prioritizing big business needs, while small firms have been largely ignored. Canada cannot afford to keep losing more businesses than it gains, it’s time for all governments to put small businesses first and reverse the entrepreneurial drought.”

CFIB identified three priority areas of action to fix Canada’s entrepreneurial drought: reducing the cost of doing business, cutting red tape, and responding to the ongoing transformation of Canada’s labour market.

Some key reforms for governments include:

Reducing the costs of doing business:

• Reduce the federal small business corporate tax rate (SBCTR) from 9% to 6%; and
  • Provincial governments should permanently lower their SBCTRs to 0% by 2030.
  • Federal and provincial governments should raise SBCTR thresholds to at least $700,000 and index it to inflation.
• Make financing more accessible and affordable.
• Create a level playing field and ensure government programs and procurement processes are accessible to small firms.

Cutting red tape and reducing internal trade barriers:

• Measure and publicly report the regulatory burden.
• Eliminate two regulations for every new one introduced (a “2 for 1” rule) to cut red tape.
• Streamline internal trade by expanding mutual recognition beyond its current scope to include food and alcohol and ensure the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement and provincial legislation are applied consistently and transparently, with minimal carve-outs.

Addressing labour market challenges and improving business succession:

• Improve workforce quality through training incentives and stronger partnerships with educational institutions.
• Keep, protect and defend the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and consult the business community in advance of future reform.
• Increase awareness, particularly among young entrepreneurs, about the opportunities and advantages of purchasing an existing business.
• Allow small corporations to defer the tax on capital gains from the transfer of a business to the owner’s children.

“The entrepreneurial drought won’t fix itself. Canada needs to give businesses clear reasons to start, stay and invest, yet current government policies are failing to inspire confidence among entrepreneurs,” said Brianna Solberg, CFIB director for the Prairies and the North. “If governments are serious about Canada’s economic strength, competitiveness, and productivity growth, they need to start reflecting this in their policies.”

Visit cfib.ca/drought for more information.

The post Canada Is Losing Businesses At An Alarming Rate: Here’s How We Fix The Country’s Entrepreneurial Drought: CFIB appeared first on Muskoka411.

‘But Why Bump Off Barnaby?’ is a murder mystery farce at its most hilarious directed by Emma Phillips. When an eccentric family gathers at Marlgate Manor, the evening takes a sinister turn indeed! The race is on to find the killer. The only problem? The clues and motives make absolutely no sense to anyone. While the bizarre group frantically tries to unmask the murderer, people are implicated, stories are questioned and pure mayhem follows. To find out who committed the crime, you’ll just have to come and see the show for yourself!

“This is an exceptionally silly play, fun and fast paced. It is the perfect piece to just sit back and let yourself be immersed in laughter,” says director Emma Phillips, “We have gathered some of the best local actors and crafted a stunning backdrop and beautiful period costumes. It took 20 years to bring this play to the stage, and we’re thrilled to bring this theatrical experience to the community”.

The cast of local performers includes Earl Sacrey, James Currie, Beth Bussotti, Rachel Thompson, Allen Hutchings, Fritz Ruttan, Nancy Jamieson, Shaman Johann, Rachel Walker-Brown and Lauren Rodrigues.

‘But Why Bump Off Barnaby?’ will take place at the Rene M Caisse Memorial Theatre (100 Clearbrook Trail, Bracebridge) from May 6^th-9^th at 7:30pm with a 2:30pm matinee also on May 9th. Tickets are $30 for general audience, with a discount for groups of 10+ and HTC members. They can be purchased at theatremuskoka.ca.

The post Check Out ‘But Why Bump Off Barnaby?’ From May 6th-9th In Bracebridge appeared first on Muskoka411.

The City of Orillia is preparing for an exciting transformation of outdoor recreation space in Foundry Park which surrounds the Orillia Recreation Centre (ORC), with work set to begin in the coming weeks on two new amenities: a skatepark and pickleball courts.

“These projects are true examples of community collaboration and local pride coming together in a meaningful way,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “These exciting enhancements started with residents who care about having quality places to gather, play, and stay active. It’s great to see Foundry Park take shape in a way that reflects that effort and brings something lasting to Orillia for people of all ages.”

Skatepark

The Foundry Park skatepark is the first phase of the project to get underway. This long-anticipated, community-driven amenity will soon begin taking shape at the site with groundbreaking expected in early May.

The skatepark will span approximately 11,000 square feet, while maintaining a dynamic, modern design tailored for skateboarders of all skill levels. The project has been made possible through a strong partnership between the City and the local skateboarding community, who have committed more than $100,000 in fundraising support. Community members can continue to contribute at skateparkers.ca.

Pickleball courts

Also included in the Foundry Park improvements are 10 future pickleball courts. The courts are also being advanced with enthusiastic backing from the local pickleball community, who have come together in support of this new space, contributing $30,000 towards the project. Community fundraising is ongoing, with donation opportunities to be shared on orilliapickleballclub.com.

While timelines for construction of these amenities are still being finalized, they are expected to move forward as part of the overall site revitalization in the coming months. Construction of both projects will take place throughout the summer, and the new amenities are expected to be ready for use by fall 2026.

Important site information

• The trail network throughout the property will remain open but occasional interruptions may occur.
• Construction staging areas will be located in the southern portion of the ORC parking lot as well as the end of Queen Street West.
• The work area of Foundry Park will be closed to the public. Residents are asked to use caution around the construction zone and respect all posted signage

The City thanks residents for their patience and cooperation as these exciting improvements get underway.

The post Exciting Changes Coming To Orillia Rec Centre Outdoor Space As Foundry Park Revitalization Begins appeared first on Muskoka411.

This family-friendly walk offers an opportunity to honour the mothers, caregivers, grandmothers, and women who shape our lives, while standing alongside women and children in our community who are seeking safety, support, and a path forward.

“At Green Haven Shelter for Women, we walk for more than awareness,” says Jessica Gouveia, Manager of Administration and Fundraising. “We walk to celebrate the strength of women, to recognize the care and resilience they bring to our families and communities, and to ensure that every woman has access to safety, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild her life.”

Green Haven is proud to partner with Melissa White Fitness Studio as the presenting sponsor of this inaugural event. Their leadership and commitment to community well-being are helping to bring this meaningful initiative to life.

Gender-based violence remains a critical issue across Canada, with 1 in 3 women experiencing violence in their lifetime. Locally, Green Haven provides emergency shelter, crisis support, outreach, and advocacy to women and children fleeing violence.

While this work is essential, it is not fully funded. Approximately 60% of Green Haven’s core operations are supported through government funding, leaving the organization to raise over $600,000 annually (or roughly $50,000 each month) to sustain its services. Many available grants are restricted to specific programs, meaning essential day-to-day costs such as staffing, food, utilities, and maintaining safe shelter space must be supported by the community.

The Mother’s Day March is designed to bring the community together in a way that is both celebratory and impactful by creating space to recognize the women in our lives while directly supporting those who need it most.

Join the Movement

Community members, families, and organizations are invited to take part:

Register or Donate:
Walk with us, set a personal fundraising goal, or support a participant:
https://greenhavenshelter.com/mothers-day-march/

Start a Team or Fundraise:
Gather friends, family, or colleagues and create a fundraising team. Every effort helps expand the impact of this event.

Become a Sponsor:
Green Haven continues to welcome additional sponsors and community partners to support this inaugural event and help build a lasting annual tradition.

Volunteer:
Support the day-of event and help create a welcoming, positive experience for all participants.

Share:
Help amplify the message by sharing the event with your networks and encouraging others to get involved.

Every step you take honours the women in your life. Every dollar you give helps open doors for another.

Event Details

Event: Mother’s Day March – Opening Doors, One Step at a Time (presented by Melissa White Fitness Studio)
Date: Sunday, May 10, 2026
Location: Tudhope Park, Orillia
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

The post Celebrate Mother’s Day With Purpose: Green Haven Launches Community Walk In Orillia appeared first on Muskoka411.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/expedia/9334956-en-vrbo-top-vacation-rentals-of-the-year-canada-2026

“The Vacation Rentals of the Year showcase the finest vacation rentals on Vrbo. New this year, properties on the list have earned the ‘Loved by Guests’ badge — a recognition reserved for the top 10% of homes in a destination based on real guest reviews,” said Larry Plawsky, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Vrbo. “This list should inspire travellers to take their next group getaway and demonstrates how easy it is to find a trusted, high-quality vacation rental every time they plan a trip.”

This year’s properties are located in the most popular vacation destinations across Canada, including Banff, Alberta; Port Medway, Nova Scotia; St. Peter’s Harbour, Prince Edward Island; and Whistler, British Columbia. Canadian travellers who want to travel internationally can also find properties in Hanalei, Hawaii in the U.S.; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Devon, England; and Black Forest, Germany.

Vrbo’s Vacation Rentals of the Year were selected based on criteria that exemplify high-quality stays and give guests the confidence to book their next trip.

What Makes the Vacation Rentals of the Year Stand Out

• Loved by Guests: a recognition for the top 10% of properties in a destination based on verified guest reviews
• Premier Host: properties managed by hosts who have a proven track record of reliability and great hospitality, including 99% booking acceptance rate and 0% host cancellation rate
• Ratings and reviews: more than 10 exceptional guest ratings and verified positive reviews
• Location: properties in a variety of popular leisure destinations, oftentimes steps from the ocean, lakes, or mountains
• Great for groups: spacious homes with attractive amenities like private pools, hot tubs, and game rooms ideal for families and multi-generational groups
• “Wow” factor: properties with unique amenities or architectural features, including private spas, ski-in/ski-out access, waterfront settings and panoramic mountain views

“This year’s list reflects just how far traveller expectations have evolved and how our partners continue to rise to the occasion,” said Tim Rosolio, Vice President of Vacation Rental Partnerships at Vrbo. “From unique design and standout amenities to the small, thoughtful touches that build trust, these homes deliver the kind of exceptional experiences that today’s travellers don’t just appreciate, they expect. We’re proud to celebrate hosts who are setting a new standard for quality and helping shape the future of vacation rentals.”

Vrbo’s Vacation Rentals of the Year highlights extraordinary properties around the world, with more than 50 honourees. See the top vacation rentals in Canada, the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Australia, and New Zealand.

View the full list of the 2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year, along with photos and booking details here.

2026 Vacation Rentals of the Year Details:

• Banff, Alberta — “Rustic Chic Banff Mountain Home” is located two blocks from Banff Avenue and features Mount Rundle views, a spacious deck and a peaceful backyard setting. This Premier Host–managed riverfront home includes Tempur-Pedic beds, a fully equipped kitchen and has earned more than 60 perfect 10/10 guest reviews.
• Fernie, British Columbia — “Fernie Mountain House” is a ski-in/ski-out retreat designed for group stays, with a seven-bedroom, seven-bath layout and floor-to-ceiling mountain views. This Premier Host property features a Nordic-inspired spa with a sauna, cold plunge and outdoor hot tub and supports the local community with donations from every booking.
• Invermere, British Columbia — “The Copper Point Cabin” is a five-bedroom mountain home with Rocky Mountain views, a game room and a pool table. Located minutes from Copper Point Golf Club and downtown Invermere, this family-friendly property has earned more than 50 perfect guest reviews.
• Lac-Supérieur, Quebec — “Bright Chalet” is located in the Laurentians near Mont Tremblant and features an outdoor hot tub, indoor sauna and access to Club de la Pointe on Lake Supérieur. Guests can enjoy year-round amenities including a heated pool, water activities and winter recreation.
• Port Medway, Nova Scotia — “Atlantic Pearl” is a remodeled Cape Cod–style oceanfront home overlooking Ragged Harbour, featuring a screened-in porch with a hot tub and a fully equipped kitchen and dining area for group stays. Located steps from a sandy beach, the property is a short drive to Mahone Bay and Lunenburg.
• St. Peter’s Harbour, Prince Edward Island — “Sea Dunes Beach House” is one of only three homes built directly in the dunes of St. Peter’s Harbour Beach, accommodating up to 14 guests across a main house and carriage house. This Premier Host property features wraparound decks with ocean views and has earned more than 30 perfect 10/10 guest reviews.
• Utterson, Ontario — “Sutton Lakehouse” is a lakeside retreat on Three Mile Lake in Muskoka featuring a private dock, outdoor dining and a fire pit. This Premier Host property is pet-friendly and offers year-round access to swimming, paddling and waterfront activities.
• Whistler, British Columbia — “Alpine Chalet” is a ski-in/ski-out mountain home featuring two primary suites with private decks and fireplaces, along with a hot tub, heated outdoor pool and dedicated entertainment spaces. Located near Whistler’s slopes, the property offers access to year-round mountain activities.

The post Utterson Retreat Makes Vrbo List Of Top Vacation Rentals Of The Year For 2026 appeared first on Muskoka411.

From April 27 until May 3, Smile Cookies will be available at both Gravenhurst locations for $2 each, with any number of cookies over four being tax free. 

The campaign to help local schools was started by former operator Ashley Hrinkanic in 2022, with owners Paul Stevenson and Tammy Jacklin opting to continue it when they took over in 2023. 

Gravenhurst Tim Hortons raised $22,202 for Muskoka Beechgrove, $19,806 for Gravenhurst Public School, $18,494 for KP Manson, and $18,051 for Glen Orchard. Kristina Brownlee, General Manager for the Gravenhurst locations, said that the last four years have raised way more than was expected for all of the local schools. 

“This is our final year for our local schools being the recipients of the Smile Cookie campaign, so we are looking forward to seeing how much the high school can raise this year!”

GHS guidance counselor Carol Kent said that this year’s campaign is significant because of the connection between GHS students and Tim Hortons.

“It means a lot, especially because a lot of our high school students work at Tim Hortons, whether it be after school jobs, summer jobs, or co-ops. Students will also be volunteering to decorate the Smile Cookies all week, which is really great because of the 40 hour community involvement requirement for graduation.” 

Kent said that because they are unsure of how much money will be raised, the school hasn’t narrowed down what the funds raised will go towards yet, but that they will go towards things that benefit students at GHS. 

“Some of the ideas that have come up are a set of bleachers for the field, the bursary fund, or supporting students who need access to different opportunities within the school that don’t have the funds to support it. Once we know how much money we’re working with, we will be able to determine what is the best use of those funds, because it really varies, but it will be towards supporting student life at GHS.”

According to Kent, GHS has already received pre-orders for more than 30 dozen Smile Cookies. She said the hope is that the same momentum continues into next week when sales officially begin.

“We hope that a lot of past students and past staff support. We’ve reached out to our feeder schools to support us as well because, although we are separate schools, we really do work together and they’re preparing the students to come to GHS, so hopefully they support us. We hope everyone goes out and purchases.” 

To support Gravenhurst High School through the Smile Cookie campaign, visit the Gravenhurst Tim Hortons locations at 150 Talisman Drive and 2329 Highway 11 South from April 27 to May 3.

The post Gravenhurst Smile Cookies Support Gravenhurst High School appeared first on Muskoka411.