York Regional Police are appealing for witnesses after two related attempted arsons early Wednesday morning at plazas in Markham and Whitchurch-Stouffville. The incidents occurred just hours apart, prompting investigators to link the cases.

Police say a white Audi SUV was seen at both scenes, where two suspects allegedly smashed the front doors of businesses and attempted to ignite fires using an accelerant before fleeing the area. The fires self-extinguished in both cases, the buildings were unoccupied at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Investigators believe at least three people were involved, including a driver who remained in the vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to contact York Regional Police or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.

More than 40 non-profit organizations were recognized at an appreciation event hosted by Dawn Gallagher Murphy on Feb. 11, ahead of Ontario’s Non-Profit Sector Appreciation Week. The Newmarket-Aurora MPP brought together representatives from across the riding to acknowledge their contributions to the community.

Held at The Lounge on Main Street, the third annual event featured a presentation ceremony where each organization received a recognition scroll. The gathering also offered an opportunity for volunteers and community leaders to connect and share the impact of their work.

Speakers noted that local non-profits play a vital role in supporting families, youth and vulnerable residents, while helping to foster a more vibrant and inclusive Newmarket-Aurora.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk says the Town is moving ahead with a request from the Optimist Club of Keswick to name a local park in the organization’s honour. The proposal would see the park and baseball diamond beside Lakeside Public School formally named Keswick Optimist Park.

The name is a return to the site’s historic title, which it was known by years ago. Town officials say reviving the name reflects the club’s longstanding presence and contributions within the community.

Mayor Quirk said the move is a meaningful way to recognize and thank the Optimist Club of Keswick for its years of dedicated service, volunteerism and support for local youth and families.

York Regional Police are asking for the public’s help in locating a 50-year-old man from Georgina who has been reported missing. Angelo was last seen around 11:50 a.m. on February 10, near Old Homestead Road and Warden Avenue, and investigators are concerned for his safety after he failed to return home.

Angelo is described as 5’9” with a heavy build, slicked-back black hair and a white beard. He was last seen wearing a blue sweater with a grey horizontal stripe, a black Nike hooded jacket, blue jeans and black running shoes. Police say anyone who sees him or has information about his whereabouts should contact authorities immediately.

York Regional Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or tips. Those with information can call the #3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7341, or reach Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online.

Flags at the Georgina Civic Centre have been lowered in honour of the community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C., following Tuesday’s tragic mass shooting. The town is joining communities across Canada in mourning the victims of the senseless act.

Mayor Margaret Quirk expressed her deepest condolences to the families of those who were killed or injured, as well as to everyone affected by the tragedy. She emphasized the pain felt by the community and acknowledged the lasting impact of the event on both victims and first responders.

Quirk also recognized the courage and dedication of first responders and health-care teams who supported the victims. She added that Georgina stands in solidarity with Tumbler Ridge, offering support and compassion during this difficult time.

York Catholic District School Board trustees are urging the province not to place the board under supervision following a warning from Education Minister Paul Calandra over financial and governance concerns. The province cited ongoing budget deficits, leadership turnover, and disputes among trustees, and has given the board until Feb. 11 to show progress.

At a special meeting on Feb. 10, interim director of education Jennifer Sarna said supervision is not necessary, noting the board is on track with its multi-year financial recovery plan and has stable leadership in place. Board chair Maria Iafrate added that trustees are committed to strengthening governance and supporting student success.

The board continues to work with the province to address concerns, including enhanced oversight of legal and financial matters. While officials say progress is being made, the province will decide whether to intervene if the issues are not resolved quickly.

York Regional Police responded to an incident at a shopping plaza near Huron Heights Secondary School in Newmarket yesterday, establishing a perimeter around businesses at the corner of Huron Heights Drive and Davis Drive. Officers were seen outside several storefronts as they investigated. Police have not yet released details about the nature of the incident.

In a message sent to parents, the school said the situation involved an off-site physical altercation during the lunch hour. Police were called and arrived within minutes, and officials confirmed there was no need to alter regular school operations for the remainder of the day.

The York Region District School Board said the matter is being taken seriously and that student safety remains a top priority. Mental health professionals will be made available to students as needed in response to the incident.

The Town of Aurora is once again partnering with the Coaches Association of Ontario to host the Women in Sport (W.I.N.S.) Weekend this spring, creating opportunities for women and girls to step into coaching or advance their skills. Now in its third year, the initiative is designed to support female and female-identifying coaches, who remain underrepresented in many sports and recreation programs.

The two-day event will feature in-person National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) training, giving participants the chance to earn recognized credentials while building confidence and connections within the coaching community. Organizers say the weekend also emphasizes mentorship and networking in a supportive environment, helping participants grow both personally and professionally. On-site childcare will again be offered to reduce barriers that may prevent women from taking part.

W.I.N.S. Weekend takes place March 28 and 29 at Aurora Town Square. Registration is currently open for Aurora residents, with non-resident registration beginning Feb. 16.

Gerrit Herrema of Herralea Farm spoke on Tractor Talk last week about the impact snowmobiling can have on local farms during the winter months. While snow-covered fields may look dormant, Herrema said there are often crops beneath the surface that can be damaged by repeated snowmobile traffic.

He explained that the packing of snow caused by snowmobiles can affect crops growing underneath, making it important for riders to be aware of where they travel. Livestock can also be disturbed by passing sleds, especially if animals are not used to the noise, which can lead to broken fences or other property damage.

Herrema said the key message for snowmobilers is simple: respect farmers, their land and their livelihood. Being mindful of private property and sticking to designated trails can help prevent unnecessary damage and support the local agricultural community.

The federal government has announced up to $9.3 million in funding for Kumi Canada’s auto-parts manufacturing facility in Bradford West Gwillimbury. The investment is aimed at supporting Canada’s automotive sector as it faces ongoing trade pressures and U.S. tariffs.

The funding, delivered through FedDev Ontario, will help Kumi modernize equipment and invest in automation at its local plant. Company officials say the support is expected to help maintain approximately 60 jobs while continuing to supply major customers, including Honda Canada’s nearby Alliston assembly plant.

Federal officials say the investment is part of a broader strategy to protect Canadian workers and strengthen domestic manufacturing. The program is designed to help businesses remain competitive and resilient as global trade conditions continue to evolve.

Police carried out a region-wide R.I.D.E. initiative over the Super Bowl weekend aimed at detecting and preventing impaired driving. Officers stopped 177 vehicles during the campaign and laid impaired driving charges against two drivers.

As part of the enforcement effort, police administered 21 roadside breath tests and issued two seven-day driver’s licence suspensions to motorists who registered readings in the warn range. The initiative was conducted at multiple locations across the region.

Police are reminding residents that updated impaired driving rules came into effect on January 1, increasing licence suspension periods and introducing mandatory education and substance-use programs for repeat offences. Officers say impaired driving enforcement continues year-round to help keep local roads safe.

Snow removal operations are underway in Georgina’s Simcoe Landing neighbourhood as the town continues its winter maintenance efforts. Crews have begun snow lift operations on select streets, with additional roads scheduled to be cleared later this week.

Town staff are delivering notices door to door on streets affected by the work. Vehicles must be removed from the roadway between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to allow crews to safely and efficiently remove snow, and only streets requiring vehicle removal will receive advance notice.

Residents with available driveway space are encouraged to assist neighbours by offering temporary parking during the operations. The town is thanking residents for their patience and cooperation as winter conditions continue to impact local roads.

Essa Township is recommending the introduction of a red-light camera program and a ‘smart intersection’ pilot project to improve traffic safety, with no cost to the municipality. The red-light cameras aim to reduce traffic violations and accidents, while enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists. The cameras would operate 24/7, providing continuous monitoring and enforcement at key intersections.

In addition to the red-light cameras, the township is also proposing a three-month ‘smart intersection’ pilot project. This initiative will collect valuable traffic data to help inform future transportation planning. During the pilot, no enforcement actions or permanent changes will be made, allowing the township to evaluate the effectiveness of the system before any further steps are taken.

Both projects are designed to enhance overall road safety in Essa Township, using technology to better manage traffic flow and improve safety for all road users. The data collected during the pilot phase will be used to make informed decisions about future traffic safety measures in the community.

Bradford West Gwillimbury Mayor James Leduc announced that he will not be delegating his strong mayor powers to staff or council, saying there is no need to change something that isn’t broken. The decision came after a January council meeting where some members, including Ward 3 Councillor Ben Verkaik, expressed concerns about the lack of delegation and its impact on transparency.

Councillor Verkaik was disappointed by the mayor’s decision, arguing that it reduces the role of council and increases the mayor’s control. Verkaik hopes future mayoral candidates will pledge to share their powers with council to make local government more balanced.

Mayor Leduc defended his decision, stating that the strong mayor powers have not caused any issues so far and that council should focus on other matters. He emphasized that the current system is working well and doesn’t require changes.

Mayor Margaret Quirk recently thanked the Optimist Club of Keswick, specifically Optimists Carol and Lauralee, for their support of the Salvation Army’s annual Kettle Program. The club was recognized for adopting a kettle during the 2025 Christmas campaign, which helps raise funds for those in need during the holiday season.

In her remarks, Mayor Quirk also expressed gratitude to the Salvation Army Georgina Community Church for their ongoing contributions to the community. “Their dedication makes a real difference, and we are grateful for their continued support,” she said.

The Kettle Program is an important tradition in Georgina, with local groups and volunteers working together to raise funds for the Salvation Army’s programs, spreading the spirit of giving year-round.

South Simcoe Police have laid charges following a major collision involving a dirt bike on Mountbatten Avenue in the Town of Innisfil. The incident occurred on August 11, 2025, and involved a youth from Innisfil operating a dirt bike on the roadway. Police previously released information about the crash on August 12 as the investigation continued.

The investigation, led by the South Simcoe Police Service Traffic and Marine Unit, determined the youth was travelling at a high rate of speed before losing control and striking a parked vehicle. The 15-year-old was taken to hospital and later airlifted to a Toronto-area trauma centre with serious injuries, but is expected to survive.

As a result of the investigation, the youth has been charged with careless driving, driving a motor vehicle without a licence, operating an unsafe vehicle, and operating a motor vehicle on a highway without insurance. Police are reminding the public that dirt bikes are off-road vehicles and are not permitted on municipal roads, noting they are subject to the same rules and requirements as other motor vehicles when operated on a roadway.

SnoFest has been postponed to Saturday, Feb. 28, as extreme cold temperatures and high winds are forecast for the originally planned date. Town officials say the decision was made after careful consideration, with public safety identified as the top priority. The event will still take place at the ROC, offering the same winter fun in conditions that are safer and more enjoyable for all ages.

People planning to spend time outdoors during periods of extreme cold are reminded to take precautions. Dress in layers, including insulated outerwear, hats, gloves, and scarves to protect exposed skin. Limit time outside when temperatures or wind chills are dangerously low, watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia, and take frequent breaks indoors to warm up. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol can also help the body regulate heat.

The Town thanks residents for their understanding and cooperation and looks forward to welcoming the community to SnoFest on Feb. 28. Organizers say they are excited to celebrate together and encourage everyone to mark the new date and plan to enjoy a safe and festive day at the ROC.

Bradford West Gwillimbury has temporarily halted work on the second phase of its growth management plan, which aimed to expand the town’s urban boundaries by nearly 450 hectares. The delay comes as the provincial government reviews growth targets for South Simcoe, which could result in an increase to the population and job projections for the town. This review is expected to have significant implications for Bradford’s future development.

Town officials have stated that staff will hold off on progressing with the expansion until more direction is received from the province. The decision on how to move forward with the boundary adjustments and the associated infrastructure needs will be influenced by the updated growth targets, which are currently under review. As a result, the timeline for the growth plan’s second phase is now uncertain.

The pause comes after the first phase of the growth plan, which focused on increasing density within existing urban areas, was approved. While Bradford awaits further provincial guidance, town staff are prepared to adjust their plans based on the final outcome of the review. This decision marks a crucial moment as the municipality plans for future growth amid shifting provincial directives.

York Region is excited to cheer on its local athletes competing in the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games. Athletes from across the region will represent Team Canada in various events, including men’s and women’s hockey, bobsleigh, freestyle skiing, and figure skating. Regional officials have congratulated these athletes for their dedication and hard work, wishing them the best as they compete on the world stage.

Among the local athletes heading to the Olympics are Sam Bennett from East Gwillimbury, Jordan Binnington from Richmond Hill, Mitch Marner from Vaughan, and Connor McDavid from Newmarket, all representing Canada in men’s hockey. In women’s hockey, Erin Ambrose from Georgina and Laura Stacey from King Township will be competing. The 4-man bobsleigh team includes Luka Stoikos from Whitchurch-Stouffville and Mark Zanette from Vaughan, while Meghan Oldham from Newmarket will compete in freestyle skiing. Paul Poirier from Markham will showcase his skills in figure skating.

As the Games approach, local officials are proud to support these athletes, acknowledging their accomplishments and their important role in representing York Region and Canada on the international stage. Congratulations to all the athletes for their outstanding achievements and for making their communities proud!

Several Toronto police officers have been arrested as part of an investigation linked to organized crime and corruption, according to the Toronto Police Association. Sources confirmed that at least eight officers, seven active members and one retiree, were taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation, which is reportedly connected to Project South, led by York Regional Police.

In a statement, the Toronto Police Association acknowledged the arrests but emphasized the need for due process and wellness support for the affected members. The union also noted that the actions of those arrested should not reflect the entire police service. Further details on the investigation remain scarce as both York Regional Police and the Toronto Police Service have yet to release additional information.

A news conference is scheduled for Thursday morning, where York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween, Deputy Chief Ryan Hogan, and Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw are expected to provide more information about the case. The press conference will be held at York Regional Police headquarters in Aurora.

East Gwillimbury residents are expressing concern about the town’s plan to update its fill bylaw, which includes new regulations for managing wet fill—soil and aggregate that contains a high water content, often from construction or demolition sites. Some worry that the wet fill could potentially harm the Oak Ridges Moraine, a vital natural aquifer, as well as local ecosystems, leading to flooding, erosion, and water pollution.

Critics of the bylaw argue that the increased use of wet fill in sensitive areas could disrupt natural drainage systems and damage wetlands, which play a crucial role in maintaining water quality and supporting wildlife. Residents are also questioning the effectiveness of oversight and enforcement, fearing that the town may struggle to monitor the proper handling and disposal of fill. Some have raised concerns about potential contamination and long-term environmental consequences if the rules aren’t strictly followed.

Despite these concerns, the town maintains that the updated bylaw is necessary to ensure the safe and responsible management of wet fill. Officials emphasize that the new regulations will align with provincial standards, requiring proper testing and planning for the fill’s use. While the town assures residents that the bylaw will protect the environment and public safety, critics continue to call for more transparency and stricter controls.

York Regional Police have confirmed that a shooting at a home in Aurora on Sunday is not being treated as a homicide. The incident occurred near James Henry Drive and Egan Crescent on February 1, when officers responded to reports of gunfire at approximately 1:42 p.m. Police found an adult man suffering from life-threatening gunshot wounds and rushed him to the hospital. The man remains alive, and an adult woman was taken into custody shortly after the incident.

Police emphasized that the shooting is an isolated event, and there is no ongoing threat to the public. The scene remains taped off as investigators continue to gather and process evidence. Authorities are not releasing further details about the individuals involved or potential charges at this time.

Despite online speculation, York Regional Police have reassured the community that there is no threat related to the incident. Investigators continue to work on the case, and the public has been asked to avoid the area while police complete their work. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk has announced that applications are now open for the York Region Tourism Fund, which offers up to $5,000 to eligible organizations. The fund is designed to support events and initiatives that will attract visitors to the region, helping to boost local tourism and economic growth.

Eligible organizations include registered charities, non-profit groups, municipalities, business improvement areas, chambers of commerce, arts and culture associations, and community groups. The funding is available for events taking place by December 31, 2026, with a strong emphasis on promoting activities that bring tourists to York Region.

The York Region Tourism Fund operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so interested groups are encouraged to apply early to secure funding. With limited funds available, it’s important to act quickly to take advantage of this opportunity to support and grow local events. For more details and to apply, visit yorklink.ca/TourismFund

A teen injured in a dirt bike crash in Innisfil last summer is now facing multiple charges in connection with the incident. The collision occurred on August 11, when the 15-year-old reportedly lost control of the dirt bike and struck a parked vehicle on a residential street.

Emergency crews responded to the scene, and the teen was taken to hospital before being airlifted to a trauma centre due to the seriousness of the injuries. Police say the investigation continued following the crash, leading to charges being laid several months later.

South Simcoe Police have charged the youth with careless driving, driving without a licence, operating an unsafe vehicle, and driving without insurance. Officers are using the incident to remind residents that dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles are not permitted on municipal roadways, citing safety concerns for both riders and the public.

Newmarket is moving ahead with several recreational projects aimed at improving outdoor spaces and active transportation options across the town. Two new multi-use paths are set to open, construction is beginning on a new pickleball facility, and upgrades are planned for George Richardson Park as part of ongoing investments in parks and recreation.

Council members highlighted the progress during a meeting yesterday, noting that the projects reflect community priorities for accessible and modern recreational amenities. In addition to current work, staff outlined future plans that include new park developments, expanded trail construction, and opportunities for public engagement on proposed neighbourhood parkettes.

Some initiatives, however, remain uncertain. Projects such as a new off-leash dog park and plans for repurposing the former operations centre are still under review, with timelines yet to be finalized. Town staff indicated that further updates will be provided as planning and consultations continue.

Winter operations crews will be removing snow from roads throughout Georgina as part of ongoing seasonal maintenance. Snow removal will take place on scheduled snow lift days, with temporary parking restrictions in effect between 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. These measures are intended to allow crews to clear streets safely and efficiently.

Residents will receive at least 48 hours’ notice before snow removal begins on their street. Temporary parking restriction signs will be posted in affected areas to alert drivers in advance. Officials encourage residents to watch for signage and plan accordingly to avoid tickets or towing during snow removal operations.

To help crews complete their work quickly, residents are being asked to avoid parking on streets during snow lift hours. The community is also reminded to follow winter safety guidelines, including keeping waste and recycling bins off snowbanks and refraining from shoveling snow onto roadways, which can create hazards for drivers and pedestrians.

Police are asking for the public’s help to identify a man wanted in connection with a robbery at the Boston Pizza on Hoover Park Drive in Stouffville. The incident occurred just before midnight last Monday, prompting officers to respond to a reported theft at the restaurant.

According to investigators, the suspect approached an employee asking for help, then went behind the takeout counter while the worker was distracted. Police say the man entered a back room and stole approximately $1,200 in cash before leaving the area.

Investigators believe the suspect may frequent the Toronto area and could return to Stouffville. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers, where tips can be provided anonymously.

Vince’s Market has announced a donation of $34,835 to the Alzheimer Societies of York Region, Simcoe County, and Durham Region through its 2025 Community Product Initiative. The announcement was made during a gathering at the Vince’s Event Space in Sharon, where community partners came together to celebrate the year’s fundraising efforts.

The funds were raised across all four Vince’s Market locations through the sale of designated Community Products, with 15 per cent of sales supporting the initiative, along with proceeds from special community events. The donation will help support caregivers and families impacted by dementia, while also raising awareness about the growing need for local supports and services.

Vince’s also announced that Easter Seals Ontario will be the beneficiary of the Community Product Initiative in 2026. The organization supports children and young adults with physical disabilities, and shoppers will be able to contribute through future Community Product purchases at all Vince’s locations.

The Northern York South Simcoe Ontario Health Team, in partnership with the Town of Georgina, is hosting a free Health and Wellness Education Series aimed at connecting residents with practical and reliable health information. The series features expert-led sessions designed for seniors, caregivers, and anyone looking to better manage their health.

The next session, Living Well with Lung Disease, is being held today from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Pefferlaw Lions Hall. The session will focus on practical strategies, available resources, and support for individuals living with lung disease, as well as their caregivers.

Participants can attend in person or join the session online. Residents are encouraged to register in advance to receive updates, with more information available at nyssoht.ca/educationsessions

The Town of Newmarket is considering introducing a Toys for Tickets program that would allow drivers to pay certain parking tickets by donating new, unwrapped toys or non-perishable food items. If approved, the initiative would provide residents with an alternative way to settle parking fines while supporting local families and community organizations during the holiday season.

The program is already offered in several nearby municipalities, including Aurora and Georgina, and has been well received in those communities. Town staff say the proposed Newmarket program would likely run for a two-week period between mid-November and mid-December, starting later this year, aligning with annual holiday donation drives.

According to a staff report, any potential loss of parking revenue from the initiative is not expected to be significant. Staff noted the program’s community benefits would outweigh the minimal financial impact, while encouraging residents to give back during a time of increased need.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk helped kick off the Special Olympics Basketball Tournament at the Multi-Use Recreation Complex (MURC) on Sunday, welcoming athletes, families, and spectators to the community event. The tournament marked another opportunity for Georgina to host inclusive sport and celebrate athletic achievement.

The event brought together nine teams from across the Greater Toronto Area, with about 100 athletes participating. Family members and friends filled the stands, creating an enthusiastic and supportive atmosphere throughout the day despite cold winter weather outside.

Mayor Quirk was joined by several members of council, who congratulated organizers, volunteers, and athletes for a successful tournament. The mayor thanked everyone involved for their dedication and noted the importance of community events that promote inclusion, teamwork, and active living.

The Town of Georgina is recognizing February as Black History Month, highlighting the history, legacy, and contributions of Black Canadians to the community and the country. The annual observance offers an opportunity to reflect on past achievements while continuing conversations about inclusion, equity, and cultural understanding.

Residents are encouraged to take part in Black History Month programs and events hosted by the Georgina Public Library and the Stephen Leacock Theatre. Activities include educational and cultural programming designed for all ages, offering opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate Black heritage through storytelling, discussion, and the arts.

York Regional Police also marked the start of Black History Month by raising the Pan-African flag at its Aurora headquarters and district locations across the region. Police noted that 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of Black History Month’s observance in Canada, reaffirming their commitment to recognizing diversity and fostering community engagement. 

Find specifics about town events here. Georgina.ca/BlackHistoryMonth

York Regional Police (YRP) has joined a number of police services across Canada in declining to participate in the federal Assault-Style Firearm Compensation Program (ASFCP). Chief Jim McSweeney released a statement confirming the service’s decision following a review of the information currently available.

In the statement, Chief McSweeney said YRP will not be directly involved in the collection process but will continue to work collaboratively with policing partners and all levels of government on matters related to public safety and lawful firearms regulation. He added that the service will continue to focus its resources on core policing priorities, including emergency response, criminal investigations, crime prevention, and victim support services across York Region.

The federal government’s national declaration period for the ASFCP began on January 19, 2026. The program is intended to support the removal of certain firearms from circulation through a federally administered compensation process. Participation by local police services is not mandatory, and residents who wish to take part can declare their firearms through the Public Safety Canada portal.