Ontario residents can enjoy licence-free fishing across the province from June 27 to July 5 as part of the annual Canada Day Free Fishing Week.

The initiative allows people to fish without purchasing a fishing licence or Outdoors Card, giving families and first-time anglers an opportunity to experience Ontario’s lakes and rivers. The province says the program encourages more people to get outdoors while supporting local tourism and recreation during the holiday period.

Anyone taking part must still follow all provincial fishing regulations, including catch and size limits, and carry government-issued identification that includes their name and date of birth while fishing.

The Georgina Public Library has launched a new website designed to make it easier for residents to access programs, events, services, and online resources.

The updated site features improved navigation, enhanced search tools, a modern design, and better accessibility across desktop and mobile devices. Library officials say the changes are intended to help visitors quickly find the information they need while providing a more user-friendly online experience.

Residents can continue using the library’s existing web address to access the new website, with all of the same services now available through the refreshed platform.

York Regional Police are asking for witnesses after a cyclist was seriously injured in a collision involving a dump truck in East Gwillimbury on Wednesday morning.

The crash happened on Doane Road, east of Warden Avenue. Police said a 58-year-old cyclist from Markham was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the dump truck remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.

Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the crash to contact York Regional Police as they continue to determine what led up to the incident.

Aurora council has approved plans for a new five-storey apartment building with 148 residential units at the corner of Yonge Street and Old Yonge Street. The proposal also includes the relocation and restoration of the historic Red House, which will be preserved as part of the development.

The project drew significant public interest, with many residents expressing concerns about increased traffic, pedestrian safety and the overall size of the building. The developer told council that several changes were made to the proposal in response to feedback received from the community during the planning process.

While council has endorsed the plans, the development must still go through final approval and additional planning requirements before construction can begin. Town officials say further steps will be needed to ensure the project meets all regulatory and planning standards.

Exciting upgrades are coming to the Jacksons Point Parkette, with construction set to begin soon on a project that will bring new lighting, sidewalks, seating and other improvements to the popular community space. The enhancements are designed to make the Parkette more welcoming and accessible for residents and visitors.

The project is being funded through a $90,000 contribution from the Town of Georgina, along with an additional $15,000 from the Jacksons Point Business Improvement Area (BIA). The improvements are the result of several years of planning and collaboration between local partners.

Work is expected to be completed in time for the Painted Perch Festival on Aug. 8, allowing festival-goers to enjoy the newly revitalized Parkette. Community leaders say the project will help enhance the waterfront area and create an improved gathering space for years to come.

The Town of Newmarket has launched a new on-demand language interpretation service to help residents access Town services in their preferred language. The service is available in person and by phone, making it easier for people to communicate with Town staff and get the information they need.

The program follows a successful pilot project in 2025 with MCIS Language Solutions. Residents can now connect with trained interpreters in more than 300 languages, helping to remove language barriers and improve access to municipal services.

The Town says the new service is part of its commitment to creating a more welcoming and inclusive community. In addition, the Town website offers translation options in 12 commonly spoken local languages, helping more residents stay informed about programs, services and local news.

A person was taken to hospital in serious condition following a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of 5th Sideroad and 4th Line in Innisfil on Tuesday morning. The crash happened around 7:30 a.m.

The collision led to road closures in the area while investigators with South Simcoe Police attended the scene. Officers worked to assess what happened and manage traffic in the surrounding area.

Police say the roads are expected to remain closed for several hours as the investigation continues. More information is expected to be released as it becomes available.

The Town of Newmarket has voted to rename Frank Stronach Park as Veterans’ Park following the recent criminal conviction of Frank Stronach for sexual assault. The decision was made at a recent council meeting.

The move comes as other organizations, including the Town of Aurora and Southlake Health, are also reviewing whether to change the names of facilities and landmarks associated with Stronach. Officials say they are reassessing naming decisions in light of recent developments.

Stronach is scheduled to face a second trial next year involving additional complainants. The town says the name change reflects its commitment to community values and respect for veterans.

The Town of Georgina is encouraging local businesses, groups, and residents to apply for grant and rebate programs that support community growth and development. The funding is meant to help improve neighbourhoods and support projects that benefit the town.

Money is available for a range of ideas, including projects that help the local economy, support arts and culture, and improve community spaces. Some programs also focus on revitalizing downtown areas and helping address food insecurity in the community.

Town officials say these programs are a way for people in Georgina to help make their community better. They are encouraging anyone with a project idea to look into the available funding and apply.

York Regional Police are reminding residents to follow the rules for riding e-scooters and e-bikes after Southlake Health reported a sharp increase in injuries involving young riders. The hospital saw a 44 per cent increase in e-scooter-related injuries among children under the age of 16 over the past year.

Police note that anyone under 16 is not legally permitted to operate an e-scooter. They also remind residents that e-scooter use is restricted or prohibited in some municipalities, and riders should be aware of local regulations before using them.

With e-scooters and e-bikes becoming more common on local streets, officers are encouraging residents to put safety first. Riders are urged to familiarize themselves with the rules and ride responsibly throughout the summer months.

A 70-year-old man has pleaded guilty in a Newmarket court to dangerous driving charges following a crash at a Richmond Hill daycare in September 2025 that killed a toddler and injured several children and staff members.

Court heard the driver was attempting to park an SUV when he accidentally pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake. The vehicle then crashed through three classrooms at the daycare, causing extensive damage and multiple injuries.

The guilty plea brings the case a step closer to its conclusion. A sentencing hearing is scheduled to take place in Newmarket on Dec. 8, when the court will determine the appropriate penalty.

The Town of Newmarket will unveil a special plaque on June 30 to recognize the Newmarket Church of Christ for its generous land donation that helped create Haskett Park Breathing Space. The ceremony will take place from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the park, located at 240 Davis Drive.

The plaque will acknowledge the church’s contribution and the lasting impact it has had on the community. The donated land helped create a public green space that residents can enjoy for recreation, relaxation, and spending time outdoors.

Municipal leaders, church representatives, and community members are expected to attend the event. The gathering will celebrate the donation and recognize the role it has played in enhancing the town’s public spaces.

Aurora council is considering ways to better support renters facing renovictions, but no final decision has been made. A renoviction is when a tenant is required to leave a rental unit so major renovations can be completed, sometimes leading to concerns about affordability and a tenant’s ability to return after the work is finished.

While council members agreed the issue is important, questions remain about the cost of introducing a new program and the resources needed to enforce it. Some councillors expressed interest in starting with a smaller pilot project before committing to a larger initiative.

The matter is expected to return to council for further discussion tomorrow. Staff are expected to provide additional information to help councillors determine the best approach for supporting renters in the community.

The Town of Georgina held its first-ever Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony at the Multi-Use Recreation Complex (MURC) this past weekend. The event recognized local athletes, builders and teams who have made important contributions to sports in the community.

The inaugural 2026 inductees were the late Ken Hackenbrook, honoured as a Builder, and Mike Sedore, who was recognized as both an Athlete and Builder. Family members, friends and community supporters gathered to celebrate their achievements and lasting impact on local sports.

The evening also included recognition for the Keswick High School Girls Varsity Hockey Team. Local Olympian Erin Ambrose made a special appearance, helping make the historic event a memorable occasion for everyone in attendance.

Canadians are marking the 30th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21st, a day dedicated to celebrating the cultures, traditions and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The annual observance is recognized in communities across the country through ceremonies, cultural activities and public gatherings.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is held each year on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. The date holds cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous peoples and has long been a time for celebration, reflection and community connection.

Across Canada, communities hosted events to recognize Indigenous heritage, achievements and resilience. Organizers say the day provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn about Indigenous histories and cultures while celebrating the rich diversity of Indigenous communities.

A York Regional Police officer is facing criminal charges following an investigation conducted by the service’s Professional Standards Bureau. Police announced that on Wednesday, June 17, Constable Kivijan Ketheeswaran was arrested and charged with Unauthorized Use of Computer and Breach of Trust by a Public Officer.

York Regional Police say Ketheeswaran joined the service in October 2024 and worked as a uniform officer in 4 District. He has been under paid suspension since April 11, 2025, while the Professional Standards Bureau investigation has been ongoing. Authorities noted the matter is not connected to Project South.

Ketheeswaran has since been released from custody with conditions and is scheduled to make his first court appearance on September 8, 2026, at the Ontario Court of Justice in Newmarket. Police are asking anyone with additional information regarding the case to contact the Professional Standards Bureau or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority (LSRCA) has issued a Shoreline Hazard Watch – Moderate Risk after significant rainfall pushed water levels on Lake Simcoe to above-average levels for this time of year. Approximately 25 to 30 millimetres of rain fell across the watershed on Thursday, June 18, with some areas receiving higher amounts due to thunderstorms. Officials say the rainfall has caused lake levels to rise several centimetres, with the current water level now sitting at approximately 219.19 metres — roughly 11 centimetres above the seasonal average.

The conservation authority says elevated lake levels combined with strong winds expected through the weekend could create localized flooding concerns in vulnerable shoreline areas. Current forecasts call for westerly winds with gusts approaching 47 to 48 kilometres per hour. Officials warn that wave action may result in localized shoreline flooding and minor damage in low-lying areas exposed to prevailing winds. Parks Canada has also increased outflows from Lake Simcoe outside navigation hours in an effort to help manage water levels.

Residents, particularly those in historically flood-prone areas, are being urged to remain cautious and take steps to protect their properties, pets and families. The authority is also reminding parents to closely supervise children around all bodies of water and to avoid waterways with elevated conditions. The Shoreline Hazard Watch remains in effect until July 6 at noon, replacing the previous low-risk advisory issued earlier this week. Officials say lake levels are expected to remain elevated for several weeks before gradually returning to more typical seasonal levels.

Aurora council has voted to oppose an Ontario Land Tribunal appeal over a proposal to replace a single-family home on Heathwood Heights Drive with five detached houses. Mayor Tom Mrakas says the development would not fit the neighbourhood’s character and would amount to overdevelopment of the site.

Council has directed the town solicitor to represent Aurora at the tribunal. The proposal has faced strong community opposition, with nearly 800 residents signing a petition against the project.

A hearing date for the appeal has not yet been announced. Town officials say they are committed to defending the community’s interests and maintaining the neighbourhood’s established character.

Margaret Quirk joined representatives from DeafBlind Ontario Services and local families to recognize National Deafblind Awareness Month in Georgina. The event highlighted the contributions of people who are deafblind and the importance of community support and inclusion.

As part of the awareness campaign, a colourful yarn bombing display was installed at The Link in Sutton. The display aims to raise awareness about deafblindness and celebrate programs and activities enjoyed by local residents.

Georgina is home to three group homes that support people who are deafblind, along with others who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or use alternative forms of communication. Town officials say the initiative helps promote understanding and recognition of the diverse needs and experiences within the community.

Police responded yesterday afternoon to a reported shooting at the Walmart Plaza in Keswick near Dovedale Drive and Woodbine Avenue. The incident involved a dispute between occupants of two separate vehicles in the parking lot, during which a firearm was discharged toward one of the vehicles. Both vehicles had left the scene before police arrived.

No one was reported injured, and authorities are treating the incident as isolated. Officers have increased their presence in the area while the investigation continues.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Firearms Investigation Team at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7817. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at http://1800222TIPS.com.

A new digital No Right on Red sign is coming to the intersection of Woodbine Avenue and Ravenshoe Road in Georgina as part of York Region’s ongoing road safety program. The sign will activate during specific traffic signal phases to help improve safety at the intersection.

The digital sign is designed to reduce the risk of collisions by restricting right turns on red when conditions warrant. The measure is intended to create a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists travelling through the area.

The installation follows the success of similar digital signs introduced at other intersections across York Region. Regional officials continue to evaluate new safety measures aimed at improving traffic operations and reducing collisions on local roads.

York Regional Police have laid charges against five people following a drug trafficking investigation that resulted in the seizure of more than 1,300 pounds of illicit cannabis in Markham and Toronto. The investigation focused on a suspected cannabis distribution network operating in Markham and surrounding communities.

In May, officers executed multiple search warrants and seized cannabis, cannabis oil extract, suspected methamphetamine and cash. Police estimate the combined street value of the items seized exceeds $3.4 million.

According to investigators, the case began after police received information about suspected illicit cannabis trafficking activity in the area. The investigation remains part of ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal drug distribution and enhance community safety.

Local residents may notice fewer mowers along some roadsides in the coming weeks as turtle nesting season gets underway. Municipal crews are temporarily avoiding areas known to serve as nesting sites to help protect eggs and support local turtle populations.

The temporary change will remain in place during the nesting season. Leaving these areas undisturbed helps give turtles a safer place to nest and helps protect eggs until they hatch.

Drivers are encouraged to slow down and stay alert when turtles are spotted near or on roadways. Taking a little extra care can help protect local wildlife and support conservation efforts in the community.

York Region is calling on the federal and provincial governments for additional funding and support to help meet the needs of its growing seniors population. Regional officials say more investment is needed to ensure older adults can access the services and resources they rely on.

The region is seeking improvements in key areas including health care, housing, community services and access to technology. Officials say these supports are becoming increasingly important as the number of seniors in York Region continues to grow.

While progress has been made through York Region’s seniors plan, officials say more work remains. They are urging other levels of government to provide additional support to help seniors remain healthy, connected and independent in their communities.

The Town of Georgina is recognizing National AccessAbility Week by promoting the importance of accessibility and inclusion. The week celebrates the contributions of people with disabilities and encourages communities to create spaces where everyone can take part and feel welcome.

The town continues to improve accessibility in parks, beaches and recreation areas. Recent features include wheelchair-accessible pathways, adaptive beach equipment and accessible washrooms, making it easier for people of all abilities to enjoy public spaces.

Residents are also encouraged to wear red on June 3 for Red Shirt Day. The event recognizes the achievements of people with disabilities and helps raise awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion throughout the community.

Seniors Month will be celebrated across Georgina this June with a series of community barbecue events in Keswick, Sutton and Pefferlaw. The annual celebrations are designed to recognize the contributions of older adults while providing opportunities for residents to connect and enjoy local entertainment.

The first event takes place June 5 at Club 55 Keswick, where Town council members and staff will prepare and serve a barbecue lunch. Attendees can also enjoy live music and take part in a silent auction, making for an afternoon of food, fun and community engagement.

Additional Seniors Month celebrations are scheduled for June 25 in Sutton and June 30 in Pefferlaw. Tickets are available in advance through local Club 55 locations and the Town of Georgina, with organizers encouraging residents to reserve their spots early and join in the festivities.

The Town of Newmarket is celebrating a major sustainability milestone with plans to install heat pumps in more than 1,000 new homes as part of the Shining Hill development. Town officials say the project will help reduce emissions while improving energy efficiency in one of the community’s largest new housing developments.

Mayor John Taylor says the initiative supports Newmarket’s long-term environmental goals and reflects the town’s commitment to building more sustainable communities. Heat pumps are designed to provide efficient heating and cooling while using less energy than many traditional systems.

The project is believed to be the largest committed residential heat pump installation in Canada. Town officials say it could serve as an example for future housing developments looking to reduce their environmental impact and adopt more sustainable building practices.

As Pride Month begins, Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk is encouraging residents to recognize and celebrate the diversity and contributions of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. In a statement marking the month, Quirk emphasized the importance of creating communities where everyone feels safe, welcome, and included.

The mayor noted that Pride Month is observed each June and commemorates the anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising, a landmark moment in the fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights. She said the month is an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made while continuing to support equality and inclusion for all.

York Region is also recognizing Pride Month and reaffirming its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Throughout June, the region will support education and awareness initiatives aimed at promoting understanding, respect, and belonging across the community.

Drivers in Georgina can expect some delays on Ravenshoe Road as York Region begins road maintenance work this week. The work is taking place between Weir’s Sideroad and Concession Road 5 and is aimed at helping keep the road in good condition.

Crews will be applying a microsurfacing treatment, which repairs minor surface damage and helps extend the life of the roadway. The process is a cost-effective way to maintain roads and reduce the need for larger repairs down the road.

Ravenshoe Road will remain open during the work, but traffic will be reduced to a single lane. Traffic control personnel will be on site to help direct vehicles, and drivers are encouraged to plan for extra travel time while the project is completed.

Brock Township Mayor Mike Jubb has announced that the Township’s 2026 maintenance gravel program is now underway. The annual program focuses on maintaining gravel roads throughout the community to help improve driving conditions and road safety.

Township crews will be carrying out maintenance work over the coming weeks as part of the program. Residents may notice equipment and crews working on local roads as improvements are completed.

Mayor Jubb also reaffirmed his commitment to keeping residents informed about Township projects and initiatives. He said announcements will be shared at the start of each new program in the weeks ahead, helping residents stay up to date on municipal work taking place across Brock Township.

York Region says safety on York Region Transit (YRT) improved in 2025, with reported incidents decreasing by 8.6 per cent compared to the previous year. Officials say the decline reflects ongoing efforts to create a safe and comfortable experience for transit riders across the region.

YRT continues to work closely with police services and community organizations to support rider safety and respond to community needs. These partnerships also help connect vulnerable residents with services and support when needed.

According to York Region, the combined efforts are helping keep public transit safe, welcoming, and reliable for passengers. Officials say they remain committed to maintaining a positive transit experience for everyone who uses the system.

The Town of Georgina is celebrating National AccessAbility Week by promoting programs, services, and facilities that support people of all abilities. The week raises awareness about the importance of accessibility and inclusion in communities across Canada.

The Town recently approved a new Accessibility Plan that will guide accessibility improvements through 2029. The plan aims to make Town services, facilities, and public spaces more accessible and welcoming for residents and visitors.

During National AccessAbility Week, residents are encouraged to learn about accessibility programs and explore accessible features at Town facilities. The Town is also inviting community members to share feedback and report accessibility concerns to help make Georgina a more inclusive place for everyone.