The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) is reminding people to take simple steps to prevent tick bites and to know what to do if they find one.

You can reduce your risk of tick bites by taking a few precautions:

• Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants and closed-toe shoes, and tuck pant legs into socks to help keep ticks off the skin and make them easier to spot.
• Use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin and follow label directions.
• Stay on marked trails when walking or biking in natural areas whenever possible.

After spending time outdoors, it is important to check for ticks:

• Do a full-body check on yourself, your children and your pets as soon as possible and again before bedtime.
• Use a mirror or ask for help to check hard-to-see areas.
• Remove ticks within 24 hours to help prevent infection.
• Shower within two hours of coming indoors to help wash away loose ticks.
• Kill ticks that might be on clothing by putting clothes into a dryer on high heat for at least 10 minutes before washing.

If you find a tick, remove it promptly and check for others. Visit eTick.ca to identify the tick and get guidance. If a tick has been attached for 24 hours or more, speak with a health-care provider about whether preventive antibiotics are appropriate.

Lyme disease is spread through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. Early symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. Some people may also develop a red rash that expands within three to 30 days after a bite. When detected early, most cases can be treated successfully. If you are experiencing symptoms of Lyme disease, seek immediate medical attention.

Avoiding bites, removing ticks quickly and recognizing symptoms early can help prevent Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. While other illnesses including Powassan virus, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Borrelia miyamotoi disease can also spread through tick bites, the risk in Ontario remains low.

For more information, visit smdhu.org/ticks.

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A recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Burson,¹ suggests a majority of Canadian couples are willing to skip an expensive wedding celebration to afford the purchase of a home… or wish they had.

Nationally, of those planning a wedding or who have someone in their life who is, 79 per cent of respondents say they would consider requesting money for a down payment on a home instead of a traditional wedding gift (37% say definitely, and 42% say maybe). Of those respondents who are already married, 57 per cent say they would have liked to request money for a down payment on a home instead of a wedding gift; 10 per cent say they did in fact request money for their wedding.

“Few milestones carry more weight than buying a home or getting married. As the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets across the country, more Canadians are finding themselves having to make difficult trade-offs between the two – and in many cases, it’s the wedding that gets scaled back,” said Anne-Elise Cugliari Allegritti, Vice President of Research and Communications, Royal LePage.

“There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question ‘rings or real estate?’. Every couple is different, and so are the circumstances under which they navigate these important life events. However, rising living costs – extending well beyond housing alone – are causing many Canadians to reassess how they prioritize major celebrations and long-term financial goals,” she noted. “In the past, tradition may have dictated first marriage, then mortgage. Today, many couples are having to balance their desire for a once-in-a-lifetime wedding celebration with the reality of building equity and securing their financial future. For some, that means prioritizing getting into the housing market before walking down the aisle. Many people are recognizing that while a wedding is a beautiful one- or two-day event, a home is a lifetime investment.”

When asked if they would forgo or significantly scale back a wedding to put money towards a down payment on a home, 46 per cent of respondents across Canada say definitely; 36 per cent say maybe. When thinking back to their own wedding, over half (55%) of married respondents say they would have forgone or significantly scaled back a wedding to put money towards a down payment on a home.

According to The Knot’s 2025 Global Wedding Report, the average wedding costs approximately $33,000 USD, before a honeymoon or wedding rings (more than $45,000 CAD).

“With weddings, couples have more options when it comes to lowering costs – trimming the guest list, choosing a more modest venue, or cutting back on extravagant extras. Housing offers less flexibility, without compromising on size or location. As a result, some couples are choosing to trade the champagne toasts for a sizable down payment because they know that while you can always throw a party later, you may not always be able to find your forever home at today’s prices.”

According to the survey, when asked an open-ended question about the biggest or most important purchase a person will make in their lifetime, an overwhelming majority of Canadians (83%) identified buying a home.

“The fear of being priced out of the housing market, especially in the most expensive markets across southern Ontario and British Columbia’s lower mainland, has become a more powerful motivator than the pressure to have a perfect wedding,” Cugliari Allegritti added.

“Both decisions are deeply personal, and it’s completely understandable if scaling back a wedding, or choosing to marry before you’re mortgage-ready, brings up complicated feelings. And, every couple navigates a unique set of circumstances, from cultural traditions and family support, to individual financial goals. But, there’s no universal rulebook for how life is supposed to unfold. Doing things in the order that makes the most financial sense for your individual circumstances is always the right call – because however you get there, the happily ever after is yours to define.”

Royal LePage 2026 Survey: Rings vs Real Estate – Data Chart: rlp.ca/table-2026-rings-vs-real-estate

ONTARIO

In Ontario, of those planning a wedding or who have someone in their life who is, 40 per cent of respondents say they would definitely request money for a down payment on a home instead of a traditional wedding gift; 44 per cent say maybe.

Of those respondents who are already married, 57 per cent say they would have liked to request money for a down payment on a home instead of a wedding gift; 13 per cent say they did in fact request money for their wedding.

“In Toronto, many couples are choosing to purchase a home before getting married. With the cost of entering the housing market among the highest in Canada, many buyers are prioritizing saving for a down payment over spending heavily on a large or luxury wedding. At the same time, moderating home prices have created more accessible opportunities for renters who have been waiting for the right moment to enter the market,” said Tom Storey, sales representative and head of The Storey Team, Royal LePage Signature Realty in Toronto.

Storey added that condos act as an important first step into home ownership for many first-time buyers, with plans to eventually move into a larger property as their needs evolve and they build equity over time.

“Whether or not couples are requesting money specifically towards a down payment, we’re certainly seeing wedding gifts increasingly take the form of cash contributions. This can provide meaningful support for furnishing, renovating or settling into a first home,” he said. “For couples balancing both a wedding and a home purchase, tools like the First Home Savings Account can be an effective way to build savings toward a future down payment while benefiting from tax advantages.”

When asked if they would forgo or significantly scale back a wedding to put money towards a down payment on a home, 46 per cent of respondents in Ontario say definitely; 40 per cent say maybe. When thinking back to their own wedding, 58 per cent of married respondents say they would have forgone or significantly scaled back a wedding to put money towards a down payment on a home.

“In 2026, homes are out of reach for many people, so putting them somewhat back in reach is a great idea.”

– Gen X survey respondent, Ontario

Royal LePage 2026 Survey: Rings vs Real Estate – Data Chart: rlp.ca/table-2026-rings-vs-real-estate

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Recognized as one of the premier events in watersports, the Masters annually brings together many of the top waterski and wakeboard athletes from around the world. Since its inception in 1959, the tournament has become a longstanding tradition held each Memorial Day weekend at the iconic Robin Lake venue.

Canada will be represented by 10 athletes competing across both the Masters and Junior Masters divisions.

Representing Canada in the 33rd Junior Masters Tournament is Enzo Kristian (Saskatoon, SK), who will compete in Junior Men’s Jump. This will mark Kristian’s first time skiing on Robin Lake.

In the professional Masters divisions, Charlie Ross and Cole McCormick, both with ties to Ontario, will compete in Men’s Slalom. Jaimee Bull (North Bay, ON) and Neilly Ross, who also has ties to Ontario, will represent Canada in Women’s Slalom.

Dorien Llewellyn, who has ties to Innisfail, Alberta, will compete in both Men’s Trick and Men’s Jump, alongside Ryan Dodd (Olds, AB) in Men’s Jump.

Canada will also be represented in Women’s Trick by Hannah Stopnicki (Montreal, QC), Neilly Ross, and Paige Pigozzi, who has ties to Ontario. This will be Stopnicki’s first appearance competing in the Open division at the Masters after previously winning multiple Junior Women’s Trick titles at the Junior Masters.

Kate Pinsonneault (Penticton, BC) will make her first appearance competing in the Open division at the Masters in Women’s Jump.

An invitation to compete at the Masters is considered one of the sport’s highest honours, with qualification reserved for athletes performing at the top of their disciplines. The tournament is sanctioned by the International Waterski & Wake Federation (IWWF), USA Water Ski & Wake Sports, and the World Wake Association (WWA).

Robin Lake at Callaway Gardens features covered stadium seating, a judges’ tower, media facilities, and beachside viewing areas, creating one of the most recognized venues in watersports. The event attracts thousands of spectators annually and receives extensive media coverage throughout North America and internationally.

Competition begins tomorrow, May 22, and continues through May 24, 2026.

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Between May 11 to 16, the MPS Grade 7 and 8 Jazz and Concert Bands, led by Karen Lonsdale and organized by Nicole Veitch, travelled to Niagara Falls to participate in the MusicFest Canada Nationals. Both bands worked incredibly hard to earn this opportunity after qualifying last year.

“I have seen their dedication towards music since Grade 3 and I was so excited to give them the opportunity in their graduating year,” said Lonsdale.

The Jazz Band, made up of 21 talented students, performed first and earned a gold standing. During their clinic, they had the opportunity to learn and work with adjudicator Colleen Allen.

Next up was the Concert Band. All 48 students performed flawlessly and also received a gold standing. During their clinic, they had the privilege of working and learning with adjudicator Dr. Gretchen McNamara. The Concert Band also won a gold standing for their sight reading during the clinic.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this trip possible: the Wescott family, Trillium Lakelands District School Board, Boyd and Cathy Smith, James Murphy, Amy Bridle, Theatre Muskoka, DPB Delivery, and Muskoka Steamships.

Congratulations to all of the students on this outstanding accomplishment!

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Funds raised through this year’s event will help replace an aging fetal health and maternal monitoring system at GBGH—an important tool that provides continuous monitoring during delivery to ensure a safe birth experience and quick response if concerns arise.

Throughout the day, a portion of proceeds from all menu items, along with the sale of McHappy Day hearts, hats and socks, contributed to the funds raised locally, as the community once again showed its strong support for both RMHC and GBGH.

“Seeing our community come together for McHappy Day has been incredibly meaningful for us as the new owners of these restaurants,” said George and Marian Khalil, owner/operators of the Midland and Elmvale McDonald’s locations. “We are truly grateful for the generosity, kindness, and support shown by our guests, crew, and local partners. Every visit, donation, and smile helped make a real difference for families who need it most. Midland and Elmvale have welcomed us with open arms, and we are proud to be part of a community that cares so deeply about helping others. Thank you for making our first McHappy Day together so special.”

Local volunteers and community partners helped bring the event to life, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere in each restaurant. Their participation reflects the strong community spirit that continues to make McHappy Day a success year after year.

“McHappy Day is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when a community comes together,” said Robyn Kaczanowski, community giving officer, GBGH Foundation. “We are incredibly grateful to George and Marian, their team, and everyone who contributed to this year’s success. These funds will help purchase critical monitoring technology for our tiniest patients at GBGH.”

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• Flood Warning is in effect for the French River and Pickerel River
• Watershed Conditions Statement – Water Safety is in effect for the Severn River,
including Sparrow Lake

These messages will remain in effect until Friday May 29, 2026 at 11:59pm
This message applies to the areas identified above within the MNR Bracebridge–Minden
Parry Sound District, including portions of the District of Parry Sound, District of Muskoka,
and County of Haliburton.

Residents, visitors, and boaters are advised to use extreme caution near dams, as recent
high-water levels may have affected safety booms, signage, barriers, and other safety
features.

Residents and visitors should anticipate lake and river water levels to continue to decrease
in many areas, with some locations beginning to stabilize.

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 may have been damaged by seasonal conditions, including washouts. These roads
may be impassable.

Slippery stream banks and fast-flowing, cold water will create hazardous conditions around
all water bodies. Residents and visitors 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 13°C to 24°C and overnight lows
between 8°C and 13°C with up to 25 mm of rainfall.
Some areas remain vulnerable to additional impacts should significant rainfall occur.
Description of Current Conditions

It is anticipated that water levels on the Severn River, French River, and portions of the
Pickerel River will remain elevated. In some locations, levels are comparable to those
observed in 2019 and may result in localized effects.

Water levels and river flows in many locations are continuing to trend toward more normal
conditions, though some areas remain elevated.

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Muskoka Paramedic Services is the first paramedic service, in partnership with HAAS Safety Cloud and ACETECH Global to deploy a new digital notification system designed to help make roads safer for paramedics, patients, and the public.

With ambulances responding to thousands of calls every year across Muskoka, the system helps notify nearby drivers when paramedics are responding to an emergency. Alerts are delivered through compatible 2018 or newer Stellantis in-vehicle infotainment systems and the Waze navigation App.

Creating safer roads through earlier awareness

Traditionally, drivers may only have a few seconds to react once they see or hear an ambulance approaching. The new digital alert system can provide drivers with approximately 30 to 60 seconds of advance notice by sending visual or audible alerts, helping them move safely aside for approaching emergency vehicles.

The system can also notify drivers when ambulances are stationary at emergency scenes, encouraging safer driving around roadside incidents and emergency responders.

How the system works

The alert system uses ACETECH hardware already installed in Muskoka Paramedic Services ambulances. When paramedics respond to an emergency call, alerts are automatically sent to nearby smartphones and compatible in-vehicle navigation systems.

Drivers do not need to sign up for the service. Alerts will appear automatically through compatible systems already in use.

Benefits of the digital alert system include:

• Earlier awareness of approaching emergency vehicles
• Improved safety for paramedics, patients, and drivers
• Improved Paramedic response times
• Reduced sudden braking and unpredictable driver reactions
• Better awareness around roadside emergency scenes

Leading innovation in emergency response

Launching the system during Paramedic Services Week recognizes the important work paramedics do every day to keep communities safe and connected to care.

As the first paramedic service to implement this technology, Muskoka Paramedic Services continues to explore innovative ways to improve patient care, staff safety, and community well-being.

Drivers are reminded to continue following Ontario’s Move Over laws and remain alert for emergency vehicles at all times.

For more information about Muskoka Paramedic Services, visit www.muskoka.on.ca/paramedic-services

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Recent confirmation from the Township’s engineering team has allowed this progress to move forward. As part of this review, the maintenance room that was originally impacted by the incident has been deemed accessible to staff, allowing for the restoration of essential utilities, including hydro.

What’s Open

• Community Centre (second floor)
• Lake of Bays Public Library
• Power restored through hydro
• Public access via Carol Street

The arena floor remains closed to the public while engineers complete further assessment of the east wall, located adjacent to the maintenance room that was originally affected. A portion of the parking lot also remains fenced off.

Public safety remains the Township’s top priority. The Township will continue working closely with engineering experts, and further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

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Mayor Rick Maloney today officially announced his campaign for re-election as Mayor of Bracebridge, pledging to continue building a strong, prosperous, and connected community for residents, families, businesses, and future generations.

“Bracebridge is a community with tremendous momentum,” said Maloney. “Over the past term, we have worked together to strengthen our local economy, invest in community well-being, protect our environment, and build relationships that position Bracebridge for long-term success. I am proud of what we have accomplished and excited about what lies ahead.”

Since first being elected Mayor, Maloney has focused on priorities that reflect the needs and aspirations of the community. Under his leadership, the Town has continued to support initiatives that enhance quality of life for residents of all ages through investments in parks, recreation, waterfront access, trails, and community infrastructure, while also supporting partnerships that strengthen healthcare services and community wellness throughout the region.

Bracebridge has also experienced continued economic growth through strategic investment, downtown revitalization efforts, tourism development, and support for local business. The Town has promoted responsible residential and commercial development while working to attract new investment and employment opportunities that strengthen the local economy year-round.

“Bracebridge continues to be recognized as one of Ontario’s most desirable communities to live, work, visit, and invest in,” said Maloney. “We have created momentum that benefits residents, entrepreneurs, workers, and families alike.”

Under Maloney’s leadership, Bracebridge also advanced its Climate Action Plan, establishing a long-term framework to reduce emissions, strengthen environmental resiliency, and promote sustainable municipal practices.

“Protecting our environment is essential to protecting our quality of life and our economic future,” said Maloney. “Bracebridge’s Climate Action Plan reflects our commitment to responsible leadership and ensuring our community remains strong and sustainable for future generations.”

Maloney’s administration has also focused on maintaining strong municipal finances while continuing to deliver critical services and infrastructure investments. Through careful budgeting and long-term planning, the Town has worked to ensure taxpayers receive value while preparing Bracebridge for future growth and economic challenges.

The Mayor also emphasized the importance working closely with local businesses, community organizations, regional partners, healthcare leaders, tourism stakeholders, and residents to advance shared priorities and support long-term success for the community.

“Strong communities are built through partnerships,” Maloney said. “By working collaboratively with stakeholders across our region, Bracebridge has been able to achieve meaningful progress and position itself for a strong future.”

Looking ahead, Maloney said his campaign will focus on managing growth responsibly, improving infrastructure, supporting attainable housing solutions, strengthening local healthcare advocacy, enhancing economic opportunities, and protecting the unique character and natural environment of Bracebridge.

“I believe in Bracebridge,” Maloney said. “This community succeeds when we work together with optimism, respect, and a shared vision for the future. I look forward to continuing to serve the residents of Bracebridge and earning their support once again.”

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An event your nervous system will thank you for. *This Article Is Sponsored By The Advertiser 

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