This year’s event, “Creating Safe Spaces: Inclusivity, Workforce, and Belonging in Tourism,” will feature Seth Compton, founder of OUTLoud North Bay, as a special guest speaker. The evening will also include regional voices from Almaguin Pride Network, Northridge Inn & Resort, and Explorers’ Edge, weaving together perspectives from community advocacy, business leadership, workforce development, and destination building.

As tourism operators prepare for another busy travel season, Explorers’ Edge is highlighting the importance of welcoming and inclusive environments not only for visitors, but also for the students, youth, seasonal workers, frontline teams, and staff who help tourism communities thrive.

“Students, youth, and staff are the backbone of our travel and tourism seasons,” said James Murphy, CEO of Explorers’ Edge. “If we want strong businesses, strong communities, and strong visitor experiences, we need to understand what a truly welcoming work environment looks and feels like. This conversation is about more than good intentions. It is about practical action, workforce development, and creating places where people feel safe, respected, and supported.”

Seth Compton founded OUTLoud North Bay as a safe and supportive space for 2SLGBTQ+ youth and has become a leading voice in Northern Ontario on inclusion, belonging, and community-based support.

“Creating safe spaces is not just about putting a sign in the window,” said Seth Compton, founder of OUTLoud North Bay. “It is about what people experience when they walk through the door. It is about how young people are supported, how staff are treated, and how communities show up for one another. Tourism and hospitality businesses have a powerful role to play in helping people feel seen and valued.”

The event will also connect to broader Pride and inclusion work happening across the region, including Almaguin Pride Network’s growing community presence and local leadership in creating more visible and welcoming spaces.

“Pride work in smaller and rural communities is deeply important because visibility can change lives,” said Tara, representing Almaguin Pride Network. “When businesses, organizations, and community leaders take part in these conversations, it sends a clear message that everyone belongs here. Diva Dialogues is an opportunity to keep building that momentum together.”

For tourism operators, the conversation is also a business and workforce imperative. Creating a culture of belonging can help businesses attract and retain staff, support young workers, and ensure that both employees and visitors feel safe and welcome.

“At Northridge Inn & Resort, hospitality begins with how people feel,” said Kate Hood, General Manager of Northridge Inn & Resort. “Our industry depends on people, our teams, our guests, and our communities. Building inclusive workplaces is part of building a stronger tourism sector, and these conversations help operators think about what that looks like in practical, meaningful ways.”

Diva Dialogues is part of Explorers’ Edge’s ongoing work to support inclusive destination development across the region. Explorers’ Edge has also been advancing its own Rainbow Registry process and supporting broader conversations around 2SLGBTQ+ inclusion, safe spaces, and community leadership in tourism.

The evening will include a keynote-style conversation with Seth Compton, reflections on safe spaces and workforce development, and a panel discussion exploring how businesses and communities can take meaningful steps toward more inclusive and welcoming environments.

Event Details

What: Diva Dialogues: Creating Safe Spaces — Inclusivity, Workforce, and Belonging in Tourism
When: Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Where: Cedar Canoe Books, 72 Main Street East, Huntsville, Ontario
Hosted by: Explorers’ Edge

Tourism operators, business owners, staff teams, community partners, allies, and residents are encouraged to attend.

The post Diva Dialogues Returns To Huntsville With Timely Conversation On Safe Spaces, Inclusivity, Workforce And Belonging In Tourism appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Saturday May 16, 2026, at approximately 1:09 a.m., officers were conducting a RIDE check on Main Street East in Huntsville, when officers entered into an impaired driving investigation.

As a result of the investigation Amy Calhoun, 43-years-old of Huntsville, has been charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

The OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead if they choose to consume alcohol or drugs. Consider using a designated driver, taxi, public transit, or stay overnight. Any amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

If you suspect someone is operating a vehicle of any kind while impaired, call 9-1-1. To report suspicious or unlawful activity, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

The post Huntsville Resident Charged With Impaired At A RIDE Check appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Friday, May 15, 2026, at approximately 08:15 pm, officers responded to a call for service regarding a traffic complaint in downtown Huntsville. Officers located the vehicle and subsequently entered into a impaired driving investigation.

As a result of the investigation Manuel Cordeiro, 70-years-old of Huntsville, has been charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

·      Dangerous operation

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

The OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead if they choose to consume alcohol or drugs. Consider using a designated driver, taxi, public transit, or stay overnight. Any amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

If you suspect someone is operating a vehicle of any kind while impaired, call 9-1-1. To report suspicious or unlawful activity, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

The post Traffic Complaint In Downtown Huntsville Leads To Impaired Driving Charge appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Friday, May 15, 2026 at approximately 10:51 pm, officers responded to a call for service regarding a vehicle in the ditch on Highway 11 on-ramp. Officers located the unoccupied vehicle and shortly after located the driver at a nearby business.

As a result of the investigation Kyle Buckley, 40-years-old of Bracebridge, has been charged with:

·      Failure or refusal to comply with demand

·      Careless driving

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

The OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead if they choose to consume alcohol or drugs. Consider using a designated driver, taxi, public transit, or stay overnight. Any amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

If you suspect someone is operating a vehicle of any kind while impaired, call 9-1-1. To report suspicious or unlawful activity, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

The post Bracebridge Man Charged With Impaired After Vehicle In The Ditch On Hwy. 11 appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, officers responded to reports of a suspicious vehicle on Ceramic Mine Road in Huntsville at approximately 12:18 am. Officers attended the scene and located the motor vehicle.

As a result of the investigation a female, 29-years-old, of Bracebridge, has been charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

She was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.

Huntsville OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead if they choose to consume alcohol or drugs. Consider using a designated driver, taxi, public transit, or stay overnight. Any amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

If you suspect someone is operating a vehicle of any kind while impaired, call 9-1-1. To report suspicious or unlawful activity, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

The post Bracebridge Resident Charged In Huntsville With Impaired Driving appeared first on Muskoka411.

On Friday, May 8, 2026, officers responded to a call for service regarding a disturbance in a motor vehicle on Ravenscliffe Road at approximately 3:20 p.m. Officers attended and determined that the driver was impaired by alcohol.

As a result of the investigation Keitney Rolston, 34-years-old of Sundridge, has been charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

Rolston was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

The OPP reminds motorists to plan ahead if they choose to consume alcohol or drugs. Consider using a designated driver, taxi, public transit, or stay overnight. Any amount of alcohol or drugs can impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

If you suspect someone is operating a vehicle of any kind while impaired, call 9-1-1. To report suspicious or unlawful activity, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.crimestopperssdm.com.

The post Huntsville OPP Charge Sundridge Resident With Impaired Driving appeared first on Muskoka411.

The volume is down and the energy is up at Community Living Huntsville’s 2026 Silent Disco Dance Party in May.

The not-for-profit organization invites everyone ages 16 and up to the party at Canvas
Brewing Co., 12 John St., Huntsville, on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 8:00 PM to
midnight. Tickets are $45 at mobily.ca/iZHgKJ.
“You’re going to move, you’re going to groove, and you’re going to have a great time,”
says past disco dancer Jamie Morrison.

Tickets include a live DJ, wireless headphones, 3 music channels, glow sticks, a
gourmet pizza buffet, a signature mocktail, and fun vibes. Alcoholic beverages are extra.
Funds raised support Community Living Huntsville’s affordable housing initiatives for
people with developmental disabilities and families who access the organization’s
across North Muskoka.

Jennifer Jerrett, Community Engagement Specialist for Community Living Huntsville,
says more than 120 people boogied down at last year’s event – and this year there
would be room for more with a bigger dance floor and plenty of beats to move your feet.
“Silent discos are a blast! It’s a night full of laughter, dancing with friends, and making
new ones. You never know when something fun might happen – a dance battle even
spontaneously broke out last year,” laughs Jerrett. “Come and enjoy a hilarious and
memorable night out while making a difference for your community – you won’t regret
it.”

Round up your friends, get your dance moves ready, and purchase your tickets today.
Community Living Huntsville is a not-for-profit, registered charity that supports and
advocates alongside more than 300 children and adults, and their families, to promote
and advance meaningful choice and real inclusion for people with developmental
disabilities, so people, families, and our community can thrive. Learn more at
clhuntsville.ca. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin.

The post A Silent Disco Event Is Coming To Huntsville appeared first on Muskoka411.

On April 29^th, 2026, at approximately 10:43 p.m., officers were conducting a R.I.D.E. (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) spot check in the area of Main Street West and Ferguson Road in the Town of Huntsville. A vehicle entered the area, and officers initiated an impaired driving investigation. As a result, Matthew Laurence, a 41-year-old of Huntsville was charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

On May 1st, 2026, at approximately 3:42 p.m., officers responded to a report of a possible impaired driver. As a result, officers located the vehicle on Highway 60, in Lake of Bays Township. Michael Legroulx, a 49-year-old of Pembroke was charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

·      Driving motor vehicle with open container of liquor

·      Drive vehicle or boat with cannabis readily available

On May 2nd, 2026, at approximately 5:03 p.m., officers responded to a traffic complaint regarding an impaired driver. As a result, officers located the vehicle on Hiawatha Drive in the Town of Huntsville. Dorothy Duck, a 29-year-old of Bracebridge was charged with:

·      Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

·      Operation while impaired – alcohol and drugs

The above-named accused are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge at a later date.

Drivers who are impaired by drugs or alcohol continue to pose a significant threat on Ontario roads. If you know or suspect that a driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs, call 911. In doing so, you may save a life.

The post Huntsville Resident And Bracebridge Resident Charged With Impaired Driving appeared first on Muskoka411.

Explorers’ Edge will celebrate the people behind exceptional visitor experiences at the 2026 Big Applause Awards Breakfast, taking place May 13, 2026 at Grandview Golf Club.

The Big Applause Awards recognize tourism professionals across the Explorers’ Edge region who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership, professionalism, community spirit, and care — particularly through the important fall and winter seasons. The awards shine a spotlight on the individuals who help make visitor experiences across the great Canadian wilderness just north of Toronto truly memorable.

“Exceptional visitor experiences are created by people who make this place better,” said James Murphy, CEO of Explorers’ Edge. “The Big Applause Awards are about recognizing the tourism professionals who show up every day with patience, pride, and care for their guests, their communities, and the broader visitor economy. This year’s event is also an opportunity to look ahead, with attendees invited to use their cell phones to participate in the morning and provide input that will help inform how we continue to support tourism across the region.”

This year’s top finalists have now been selected:

• Norah Fountain – recognized for long-standing tourism leadership, visitor support, destination marketing, chamber growth, and strengthening Muskoka Lakes as a year-round destination.
• Michael Dorbyk – recognized for welcoming hospitality, inclusive community space, live event programming, local business support, and memorable guest experiences.
• Stefan Ottenbrite – recognized for regional tourism promotion, shoulder-season events, the Bala Cranberry Festival, event amplification, and tourism advocacy.
• Jacki McPherson – recognized for resilience, entrepreneurship, community generosity, local collaboration, and visitor experiences rooted in Muskoka’s stories and history.
• April Denman – recognized for initiative, community-building, downtown leadership, impactful events, and local pride.
• Emily Brown – recognized for visitor services, Muskoka Oktoberfest, shoulder-season programming, event promotion, social media, and tailored visitor recommendations.

The top honouree will be announced live during the May 13 breakfast event at Grandview Golf Club.

In addition to the awards celebration, attendees will hear from two tourism leaders on timely topics shaping the future of destination development, visitor research, and digital discovery.

Lauchlan Rogers, Chief Marketing Officer at Destination Ontario, will deliver the featured presentation, “Navigating Change in Tourism Discovery: A Strategic Update from Destination Ontario.” The session will explore how generative AI is changing the way travellers find their next destination, how AI-powered search is compressing the path from curiosity to booking, and what it now means for tourism businesses and destinations to be visible online.

Tom Guerquin, Research & Development Manager at Central Counties Tourism, will present “Cell for Success: Geofencing to Grow Your Destination.” Guerquin will help demystify geofencing technology and explain how visitor data can support stronger tourism strategy by helping communities better understand who is visiting, where they are coming from, and how they move through a destination.

Attendees are asked to bring their cell phones and be prepared to participate throughout the morning by providing input and feedback as part of the session.

The Big Applause Awards Breakfast takes place May 13, 2026 at Grandview. Event details are available at:
https://explorersedge.ca/events/big-applause-awards-may-13-2026/

The post Regional Tourism Professionals To Be Honoured Later This Month In Huntsville appeared first on Muskoka411.

Jordan brings extensive and progressive leadership experience in municipal operations, infrastructure management, and public works. Most recently serving as Director of Operations for the City of Prince Rupert, Jordan has led a diverse department of more than 60 staff across critical service areas including water, wastewater, roads, fleet, landfill, and winter operations. In this role, he has been responsible for overseeing operating and capital budgets, along with a multi-year, water infrastructure renewal program.

“We are very pleased to welcome Jordan to the Town of Huntsville,” said Denise Corry, Chief Administrative Officer. “His depth of experience in municipal operations and engineering positions him well to lead our operations team, building on the strong work of his predecessor while supporting the ongoing delivery of critical infrastructure and services for our community.”

The Town extends its sincere appreciation to Randy Bissonette for his dedicated leadership and the significant contributions he has made to Huntsville’s operations over his tenure and wishes him every success in his retirement.

The post Huntsville Announces Appointment Of Jordan Schmidt As New Director Of Operations appeared first on Muskoka411.