The post Steer Your Favourite To Victory: Vote For The Winning Snowplow Name For Orillia appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>It’s ‘snow’ joke… the finalists are in and it’s time to vote in the City of Orillia’s annual Name the Plow contest. After receiving more than 45 creative submissions from the community, the City has shortlisted five names for its painted snowplow, and members of the public are invited to help choose the winner.
The snowplow was painted during the Public Works Week Fun Fest earlier this year, and name submissions were accepted from May 26 to June 30, 2026.
“The Name the Plow contest is a great example of how we can bring a little fun to the important work that keeps our community safe and connected,” said Mayor Don McIsaac. “I look forward to seeing what residents choose and watching the winning name roll through our neighbourhoods this winter.”
Vote now:
The City of Orillia has selected five finalist names from the submissions received. The public is now invited to vote for their favourite to determine the winning name. Voting is open until Aug. 27, 2026, at orillia.ca/NamethePlow.
The names are:
1) Flake It Off
2) Sleigh Queen
3) Snow Blaster
4) Snow Problem
5) Snow Bunny
If you need assistance filling in the voting form online or do not have access to the internet and would like to vote, please contact Mikaela Mahoney, Manager of Fleet, at 705-325-2272 for assistance.
The winning name will be unveiled this fall and displayed on the painted snowplow throughout the winter season. The plow blade will be clear-coated to help protect the artwork during winter operations.
“Our Public Works team works hard throughout the winter to keep Orillia’s roads safe and accessible,” said Roger Young, General Manager of Environment and Infrastructure Services. “This contest is a fun way to showcase the important work our crews do while adding a little personality to one of the vehicles that helps keep our community moving during the winter months.”
The City of Orillia maintains 455 (lane) km of roads, 132 km of sidewalks, 12 parking lots, 41 signalized intersections, and five bridges. Winter operations include patrolling, weather monitoring, pre-treatment, plowing, de-icing, clearing, snow removal and more.
For more information on the City’s Winter Control operations, visit orillia.ca/WinterControl.
The post Steer Your Favourite To Victory: Vote For The Winning Snowplow Name For Orillia appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post OSPCA Receives $28,500 Grant From PetSmart Charities To Support Animals Impacted By Wildfires appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>Working in close coordination with government agencies, communities, emergency response agencies, local municipalities, housing and social service providers, local Northern rescues, and regional animal welfare partners across the province, the Ontario SPCA is delivering comprehensive support to families displaced by the Northern Ontario wildfires and the animals in their care. The charity is helping keep people and their pets together by providing access to emergency sheltering, pet food and supplies, veterinary care, temporary accommodations and other essential supports.
“The needs of communities affected by the Northern Ontario wildfires continue to evolve, and so does our response,” says Jennifer Bluhm, Vice President of Community Outreach Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “This grant from PetSmart Charities of Canada provides valuable support as we work alongside our partners to keep people and their pets together and ensure animals receive the care they need throughout this emergency.”
“When families are impacted by disaster, pets are too. PetSmart Charities of Canada is proud to support the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society’s ongoing wildfire relief efforts through emergency grant funding,” says Marieke van der Velden, Manager, Canada Initiatives at PetSmart Charities of Canada. “Pets are family, and in times of crisis they need access to safe shelter, medical care, nutritious food and compassionate support. This funding will help provide those essential resources when they’re needed most.”
Anyone affected by the wildfires who needs support with their pets is encouraged to call 1-888-ONT-SPCA (668-7722) and follow the prompts to be connected with available services. To learn more, visit ontarioscpaca.ca/emergency-response
The post OSPCA Receives $28,500 Grant From PetSmart Charities To Support Animals Impacted By Wildfires appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post Bracebridge Youth Faces Six Criminal Charges appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>On Friday, August 7, 2026 at 2:45 a.m., Bracebridge OPP officers were conducting general patrol in the town of Bracebridge in the area of Armstrong Street when they came upon two young people attempting to break into a construction vehicle parked in a commercial parking lot. Officers engaged with the young people, one of whom, a 14-year-old Bracebridge youth, was co-operative and able to have a conversation with officers about their conduct. The second, a 16-year-old Bracebridge youth, did not respond well to officers and was subsequently arrested and charged with following offenses:
He will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice Youth Court in Bracebridge on October 1, 2026 to answer to his charges. The identity of the accused is protected under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA).
The post Bracebridge Youth Faces Six Criminal Charges appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post OPP Find 4000 Cannabis Plants At Illegal Grow Site In Bracebridge appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>In spring of 2026, Muskoka Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU) investigators commenced an investigation into a suspected illegal marihuana grow site on Little Road in Bracebridge, ON.
On July 16th, 2026, investigators executed two search warrants in relation to the investigation with the assistance of multiple OPP units and other government agencies, including the Bracebridge Fire Department. Police seized over 4000 cannabis plants and associated equipment, as a result of the investigation, Gang Deng Wang of North York, ON, has been charged with Unlawfully Obtaining Cannabis under the Cannabis Act.
The accused will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on August 11, 2026 to answer to his charge.
The post OPP Find 4000 Cannabis Plants At Illegal Grow Site In Bracebridge appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post Lets Go To The Waterfront Festival At Port Of Orillia This Weekend appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>Hosted by the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC), the festival has become an annual tradition for both residents and visitors, attracting thousands of attendees. Admission is free, and there is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the weekend.
The festival features an extensive waterfront vendor market with artisan goods, clothing, home décor, specialty products, and a variety of food vendors. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment and browse the latest marine offerings on display at the Port of Orillia.
Returning favourites include the exciting Dock Diving Dogs competition presented by Raw North and the ever-popular Cardboard Boat Race. Dock Diving demonstrations will take place on Saturday from 12 to 1 p.m. and Sunday from 3 to 4 p.m., while the Cardboard Boat Race launches on Sunday from 12 to 3 p.m., showcasing creative homemade boats and plenty of friendly competition.
Festival highlights include:
“We’re excited to welcome residents and visitors back to the waterfront for another fantastic weekend,” said Allan Lafontaine, Executive Director of the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce. “The Waterfront Festival is a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses and vendors, enjoy great entertainment, and experience everything that makes Orillia’s waterfront such a special destination.”
A complete schedule of events, entertainment, and competition registration details can be found at www.orillia.com/waterfront-festival. Visitors are encouraged to come for the day or make it a weekend and enjoy everything the festival and downtown Orillia have to offer.
With ample parking available near the waterfront, festival organizers invite everyone to come out and celebrate one of Orillia’s favourite summer traditions.
The post Lets Go To The Waterfront Festival At Port Of Orillia This Weekend appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post OPP Issue Several Marine And Off-Road Vehicle Charges During Civic Long Weekend appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>From July 29 to August 2, 2026, OPP SAVE Unit officers conducted marine and trail patrols across Central Region to enhance safety and enforcement on Ontario’s waterways and trail networks. Patrols took place in Algonquin Park, Georgian Bay, Lake Rosseau, Lake Joseph, Little Lake Joseph, Lake Dalrymple, Sparrow Lake, Pigeon Lake, Buckhorn Lake, Shadow Lake, the Otonabee River and Rice Lake, as well as surrounding waterways and trails within the Huntsville, Bracebridge, Collingwood, Huronia West, City of Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Northumberland, Haliburton, Southern Georgian Bay, and Orillia areas.
Marine and off-road vehicle enforcement results included:
Charges included:
Alcohol-related offences and lifejacket/PFD violations accounted more than half of all charges laid during the enforcement initiative, highlighting the ongoing importance of safe and responsible boating practices. A lifejacket only works if you’re wearing it.
In addition to the charges laid, officers issued two seven-day driver’s licence suspensions as part of impaired operation investigations
Alcohol and boating do not mix. The consequences of operating a vessel while impaired are the same as those for impaired driving on Ontario highways and can result in criminal charges, licence suspensions, and other significant penalties. Your driver’s licence can be impacted whether you are operating a boat, vehicle, snowmobile, or ATV.
Enforcement efforts will continue throughout the summer. Boaters and riders are reminded that operating sober, carrying the required safety equipment, ensuring all licences and vessel registration documents are up to date, and wearing a lifejacket when on or near water are essential steps in keeping Ontario’s waterways and trails safe. The OPP remains committed to enhancing marine and trail safety through enforcement, education, and public awareness initiatives across Ontario.
Anyone who observes suspicious, impaired, aggressive or unsafe operation on Ontario roads, waterways, or trails is encouraged to contact police immediately. In an emergency, call 911.
The post OPP Issue Several Marine And Off-Road Vehicle Charges During Civic Long Weekend appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Bust In Penetanguishene appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>On August 3, 2026, shortly after 12:30 a.m., officers from the Southern Georgian Bay Detachment observed a vehicle operating with a loud muffler in the area of John Street and Gignac Drive in the Town of Penetanguishene. The officer initiated a traffic stop after observing the vehicle enter a nearby parking lot and subsequently, entered into a drug investigation.
As a result of the investigation, police seized a large quantity of suspected crack cocaine, small quantities of suspected fentanyl and cocaine, Drug paraphernalia including three used glass pipes, and drug trafficking paraphernalia including a digital scale and a large quantity of Canadian currency.
Three individuals were arrested and charged.
Raymond Sarrazin, 27 years old of Midland, was charged with:
• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – cocaine
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Opioid
• Possession of a Schedule I substance x 2 – Other Drugs
• Fail to Comply with Probation Order x 4
The accused individual was held for a bail hearing before the Ontario Court of Justice.
Claude Vallee, 53 years old of Penetanguishene, was charged with:
• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Cocaine
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Cocaine
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Opioid
• Possession of a Schedule I substance x 2 – Other Drugs
• Unnecessary Noise
The accused individual is to appear before at the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date to answer to their charges.
Jaimee Scott, 33 years old of Penetanguishene, was charged with:
• Possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Other Drugs x 2
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Cocaine
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Opioid
• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Other Drugs
The accused individual is to appear before at the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date to answer to their charges.
“This seizure reflects the diligence of our frontline officers and their commitment to keeping illegal drugs out of our communities,” said the Southern Georgian Bay OPP. “Drug trafficking continues to pose significant risks to public safety, and we remain committed to identifying and disrupting those involved in the drug trade.”
Anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, information can be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at https://www.crimestopperssdm.com.
The post Traffic Stop Leads To Drug Bust In Penetanguishene appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post Rising Country Music Artist Savannah Jade Debuts At The 2026 Boots And Hearts Music Festival appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>“I was so nervous, and it was pretty much my first experience performing in front of people other than my mom and dad. It was very intimidating, for sure, and I really enjoyed being surrounded by people who had the same passion as me.”
“It is still a pinch-me moment with that song because it was my first ever single as a solo artist, and you never know what’s going to happen with your songs. It did really great, and I was super amazed by that. It was the last thing I ever imagined would happen with that song.”
“Lots of fun, dancing, and nostalgia. I am all about making people have a good time, dance, and just have fun.”
“I’m doing lots of shows in Quebec near my hometown, but also in Ontario with Boots and Hearts. Also Smoke & Spurs, which I am really excited about. The CCMAs are in September, and I have some stuff I haven’t announced yet that I’m really excited about and that will be coming out soon!”
“Boots and Hearts was on my checklist since I started. It’s a festival I have really looked forward to, and I am just so excited about it.”
“Get ready, people, because we are going to have a blast! This is going to be so fun. I am so excited about it!”
The post Rising Country Music Artist Savannah Jade Debuts At The 2026 Boots And Hearts Music Festival appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post North Bay OPP Charge Bracebridge Resident With Impaired Driving appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>On Sunday, August 2, 2026, members of the North Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were conducting a RIDE program on Chant Plein Lake Road. At approximately 8:00 a.m., a pickup truck entered the spot check, and officers observed signs consistent with alcohol impairment. The driver was arrested and transported to the Mattawa OPP Detachment for further testing.
As a result of the investigation, Kenneth Hillman, 55 years of age, of Bracebridge, has been charged with 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 North Bay on September 1, 2026. In addition, the accused received a 90-day Administrative Driver’s Licence Suspension (ADLS), and the vehicle was impounded for seven days.
Impaired driving is a criminal offence that puts everyone at risk. The OPP will continue conducting RIDE programs and targeted traffic enforcement to identify and remove impaired drivers from our roadways.
The post North Bay OPP Charge Bracebridge Resident With Impaired Driving appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>The post Sandra Schmirler Foundation Awards $45K Grant To Support Families At Georgian Bay General Hospital appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>“Presenting this donation is an especially meaningful experience for me,” said Sherry Middaugh. “I had the opportunity to curl against Sandra many times throughout our careers, so seeing funds raised in her memory making a difference at GBGH—the very hospital where both of our daughters were born—made this a truly heartfelt, full-circle moment. I’m grateful to play a small role in continuing Sandra’s remarkable legacy and helping support families in our community.”
The new monitor will help the obstetrics team keep a close watch on the well-being of mothers and babies throughout labour and delivery, providing confidence and reassurance during one of life’s most important moments. The equipment will also give expecting mothers greater freedom to move during labour while remaining safely monitored.
“Moms and babies deserve the safest possible start,” said Maggie Duivenvoorden, Supervisor of Obstetrics at GBGH. “This equipment helps our team respond quickly if concerns arise during labour, while also supporting a more comfortable and positive birth experience. We are incredibly grateful to the Sandra Schmirler Foundation for helping us continue to provide excellent care for our littlest patients.”
For Perry Esler, Interim CEO of the GBGH Foundation, the grant represents much more than equipment funding.
“The Sandra Schmirler Foundation has created an incredible legacy by bringing together Canada’s curling community in support of hospitals and families from coast to coast. Seeing leaders in the sport such as Glenn Howard and Sherry Middaugh helping champion this cause is a reminder of the powerful impact that community can have. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and for the difference it will make for local families welcoming a new baby at GBGH.”
The post Sandra Schmirler Foundation Awards $45K Grant To Support Families At Georgian Bay General Hospital appeared first on Muskoka411.
]]>