East Gwillimbury’s splash pads officially open for the season on June 1. The popular water features will be operating at Holland Landing Community Centre Park, Murrell Park, Parkway Park, and Ross Family Complex Park.

The Town says the splash pads will be available at Holland Landing Community Centre Park on Yonge Street, Murrell Park on Murrell Boulevard, Parkway Park on Oak Avenue, and Ross Family Complex Park on Centre Street. The facilities provide families with a free and fun way to beat the heat throughout the summer months.

Meanwhile, the splash pad at Harvest Hills Park will open a week later, on June 8, to coincide with the launch of new playground equipment at the site. Residents can find additional information about parks and recreational amenities by visiting the Town’s website at eastgwillimbury.ca/Parks.

York Region’s annual Family Fun Day open house runs today, at 80 and 90 Bales Drive East in East Gwillimbury. The free community event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, and will feature activities, interactive displays and demonstrations highlighting the work of Regional Public Works and Paramedic Services staff. Dan Pollard from K Country 93.7 will also be broadcasting live on location from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Families attending the event will have an opportunity to explore Regional trucks and equipment, ambulances, fire trucks and police vehicles while enjoying face painting, henna, children’s activities and photos with mascots. Visitors can also take part in guided York Region Transit bus wash and facility tours by shuttle, as well as vote on designs in the Paint-a-Plow blade showcase created by local schools. A $5 barbecue lunch supporting a local charity, along with ice cream and snacks, will also be available. The day officially begins with a drum song at 10:30 a.m. performed by the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation.

The event coincides with both National Public Works Week and Paramedic Services Week, which recognize the important role frontline staff play in maintaining infrastructure, emergency response and community safety. This year’s National Public Works Week theme is “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” while Paramedic Services Week is highlighting “Better Care Starts Here.” The Regional Municipality of York says the event is an opportunity to celebrate the employees who help support more than 1.3 million residents and over 58,000 businesses across the Region every day.

The Town of Newmarket is developing a new economic strategy aimed at keeping more money circulating within the local community and supporting small businesses. Town officials say the plan will help guide future growth and strengthen the local economy.

According to the Town, Newmarket continues to see steady economic growth, with about 40 new businesses opening each year. Strong employment sectors in the community include health care, manufacturing and retail.

Town leaders are also looking at future opportunities connected to redevelopment projects, Southlake Health, tourism and other areas that could help drive economic activity in the years ahead.

The Town of Georgina is celebrating National Public Works Week by recognizing the workers who help keep the community running every day. This year’s theme is “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community.”

The Town says its Fleet and Roads teams play an important role in maintaining local services and infrastructure. Fleet staff help maintain more than 1,900 vehicles and pieces of equipment used by the municipality.

During the winter months, Roads crews also help keep residents safe by maintaining about 333 kilometres of roads, 140 kilometres of sidewalks, and 25 municipal parking lots across Georgina. Town officials say Public Works Week is a chance to thank staff for the work they do behind the scenes every day.

Karen Barkey with Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources joined Dan Pollard on Tractor Talk to promote the upcoming Progressive Agriculture Safety Day for Kids taking place May 30. The annual event is designed to teach children important safety lessons related to farming, rural living, and everyday hazards faced by young people in agricultural communities.

During the interview, Barkey said organizers continue to hear about agriculture-related accidents involving children, noting that the highest number of incidents occur among kids between the ages of one and four. She explained the event gives children hands-on learning opportunities through eight different activity stations, where participants rotate in groups throughout the morning learning about a variety of safety topics.

While some lessons focus specifically on farm safety, others cover more general topics including fire prevention and water safety. Organizers say the goal is to help children and families build awareness and reduce preventable injuries both on the farm and at home. More information about the Progressive Agriculture Safety Day for Kids can be found through Durham Farm and Rural Family Resources.

Public pressure continues to grow following the death of a three-year-old Rottweiler during an encounter with Aurora Animal Services officers in East Gwillimbury on May 4. The dog, named Heiniu, died during the incident, prompting concerns from residents and animal advocates who are calling for more information about what happened.

The Town of Aurora says it is co-operating with several oversight agencies but has not released additional details while reviews and investigations continue. Town officials say they are unable to comment further at this time because of the ongoing process.

A second peaceful protest calling for transparency and accountability is planned outside Aurora Town Hall on May 26. Heiniu’s family continues to push for an independent investigation as supporters gather to demand answers and greater oversight of animal services procedures.

If you haven’t put out your spring flowers yet, you may want to wait a few more days. Environment Canada has issued a frost advisory for Georgina, Newmarket, Innisfil, and several nearby communities as overnight temperatures are expected to fall near or below the freezing mark.

Residents are being advised to cover outdoor plants and gardens that could be damaged by the cold temperatures. Tender plants, vegetables, and flowers are especially at risk during overnight frost conditions.

The advisory remains in effect with high forecast confidence and moderate impact levels across the region. Forecasters say temperatures are expected to improve later in the week, but residents are encouraged to monitor local weather updates and take precautions to protect outdoor plants.

Milwaukee Tool has opened its first Canadian Service Hub in Keswick with a ribbon-cutting event attended by local officials, residents, and business leaders. The new 54,000-square-foot building will be used for tool repairs and servicing across Canada.

The company says the facility is expected to create more than 80 jobs as it continues to grow. The new hub will help provide faster service and support for customers using Milwaukee Tool products.

Company representatives said they chose Georgina because of its strong community and business opportunities. Local leaders welcomed the new facility and said it will help support jobs and economic growth in the area.

York Region is rolling out its 2026 Heat Relief Strategy to help people experiencing homelessness stay safe during extreme summer heat. From June through September, the Region and its community partners will provide cooling supplies, shelter support, outreach services and access to air-conditioned spaces across York Region.

Officials say extreme heat can be especially dangerous for people living outdoors or without access to cooling. The strategy is designed to help vulnerable residents stay safe during heat warnings and long periods of high temperatures throughout the summer months.

York Region says residents can find more information about available services and cooling locations through the Region’s extreme heat website. Officials are also encouraging people to check in on vulnerable neighbours and contact outreach services if someone may need help during a heat wave.

After 50 years of fundraising, the Upper Canada Easter Seals Run, Walk and Roll in Newmarket will hold its final event on May 31 at Riverwalk Commons. The fundraiser was founded by Joe Persechini in 1976 and has become a long-running community tradition.

Over the years, the event has raised more than $4 million for Easter Seals Ontario to support children and youth with disabilities. Organizers say the money has helped families across Ontario by funding mobility equipment, accessibility supports and summer camp programs for children.

Organizers say the final event will celebrate the impact the fundraiser has had over the past five decades while bringing the community together one last time. Participants are expected to gather at Riverwalk Commons to honour the volunteers, donors and families who helped make the event a success for 50 years.

The Town of Georgina is celebrating National Public Works Week by recognizing the staff who help keep the community running and looking its best. This year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” highlights the important work done by the town’s public works and horticulture teams.

The town’s horticulture staff grow about 25 varieties of flowers each year for local gardens and planters. Officials say work on next summer’s blooms actually starts in October. Plants arrive in March and are grown in greenhouses before being planted around Georgina in the spring.

Town officials say Public Works Week is a chance to thank employees for the work they do behind the scenes every day. Their efforts help maintain public spaces and keep the community welcoming for residents and visitors.

Protesters in Newmarket are expected to gather again on May 30 as part of the provincewide “Fight Ford” rallies opposing recent decisions by the Ontario government. Organizers say residents are concerned about several issues, including education cuts, democratic changes, and new provincial legislation.

The rally is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. near the office of Dawn Gallagher Murphy at Yonge Street and Sawmill Valley Drive. Demonstrators are expected to join similar events taking place in communities across the province.

Organizers say the protest is intended to raise awareness and encourage public discussion about provincial policies and their impact on local residents. Participants are expected to gather with signs and hear from community members during the afternoon event.

With temperatures starting to rise across the region, Chris Tapper from York Regional Police demonstrated how the department keeps its K9 companions safe during hot weather. Tapper explained that the specially equipped K9 cruisers include a temperature control system designed to protect police dogs while on duty.

“Inside the K9 Cruiser we have Hot Pop controls,” said Tapper. “Basically what that is is the temperature control system and it has an alarm that if it gets too hot it’ll open the windows, set off an alarm so dogs can be cooled and temperature controlled.”

As part of the York Regional Police support unit, Tapper and his K9 partner Duke assist officers across York Region. The K9 teams respond to a variety of calls and work throughout the community year-round.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk joined residents at Jackson’s Point Parkette for a community fundraiser in support of Hospice Georgina. Families, volunteers, and local supporters gathered at the parkette to enjoy an afternoon focused on community spirit and supporting local hospice care.

The event featured live music by Neil Chapman and friends, while EM Ice Cream provided treats for attendees. The fundraiser was supported by the Jackson’s Point Village Association BIA, helping create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for residents throughout the afternoon.

Quirk thanked the organizers, volunteers, and sponsors for helping make the event possible. Attendees enjoyed the warm weather, music, and ice cream while coming together to support an important local cause.

Drivers heading home from cottage country could face delays after a serious collision forced the closure of the northbound lanes of Highway 400 in Springwater. Ontario Provincial Police say the highway is closed between Highway 11 and Forbes Road as emergency crews respond to the crash.

Police report that injuries have been sustained, although the extent of those injuries is still being assessed. Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes while investigators and cleanup crews remain on scene. Authorities warn that the closure is expected to last for an extended period.

The shutdown comes during a busy period for travelers returning from the cottage, and could lead to heavy congestion throughout the region. Drivers are encouraged to check traffic updates before leaving and allow for extra travel time as police continue their investigation.

The Georgina Farmers’ Market 2026 Season Opening officially returns today, welcoming residents and visitors back for another season of fresh local food, handmade products, and community connection in Sutton. The popular weekly market kicks off its 2026 season Sunday morning and will continue every Sunday through the season from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Organizers say more than 40 vendors are taking part this year, offering everything from farm-fresh produce and baked goods to artisan crafts and specialty items. Live music and family-friendly activities are also part of the market experience, helping create what organizers describe as a vibrant community gathering space for Georgina residents and tourists alike.

Hosted at The Link, the market has become a staple summer attraction in the community and a key opportunity for residents to support local businesses and farmers. Organizers say they are excited to welcome everyone back for another season along the south shore of Lake Simcoe.

The York Regional Police Marine Unit host a family-friendly open house in Georgina as part of Safe Boating Awareness Week. The event will take place at the Marine Unit facility located at 57 Lorne Street and gives the public an opportunity to learn more about boating safety while meeting officers and community partners dedicated to keeping waterways safe across York Region.

Visitors will be able to tour the Marine Unit facility and response vessels, while learning about the important role officers play during the busy boating season on Lake Simcoe and surrounding waterways. Marine safety partners from the Canadian Safe Boating Council and Playsafe Productions will also be on site to provide boating safety information, demonstrations, and educational resources for families and recreational boaters.

The free public event will also feature a barbecue, refreshments, and ice cream for guests of all ages. York Regional Police say the open house is designed to promote safe and responsible boating practices ahead of the summer season while giving residents a closer look at marine policing operations. More information about the event is available through the York Regional Police Marine Open House page

Georgina is encouraging residents interested in municipal politics to consider running in the 2026 municipal election. The Town says nominations are now open and will be accepted until Aug. 21 at 2 p.m.

According to the Town, information about candidate qualifications, nomination requirements, and third-party advertising rules is available for anyone planning to enter the race. Officials say the resources are intended to help candidates better understand the election process and responsibilities involved.

More information about the 2026 municipal election can be found on the Town’s website at Georgina 2026 Election Information.

Newmarket will celebrate National Public Works Week next week, recognizing the Town staff who help maintain roads, parks, facilities, water systems, and winter operations throughout the year.

Mayor John Taylor thanked Public Works and Parks employees for the important work they do to keep the community running smoothly. He said their efforts help ensure residents stay safe, connected, and supported in every season.

The Town says National Public Works Week is an opportunity to recognize the employees who work behind the scenes every day to provide essential services and maintain community infrastructure across Newmarket.

Tindall Farms will officially open its farm store this weekend, according to owner Karen Tindall. The store will offer local products and give shoppers a chance to support small businesses and makers from the community.

Tindall said the farm is currently looking for local vendors to sell their products in the store. “We love to stock our farm market with all locally hand crafted, handmade items…” she said.

Anyone interested in becoming a vendor can contact Tindall Farms by calling (416) 805-6760 for more information.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority and Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority say they will continue protecting local watersheds and delivering environmental programs as Ontario moves ahead with plans to merge the province’s 36 conservation authorities into nine regional groups by 2027.

Both organizations highlighted several achievements in their 2025 reports, including planting thousands of trees, improving permit and approval services, and offering environmental education programs for students across the region. Officials say the programs continue to support conservation efforts, flood protection, and public awareness about local ecosystems.

The province’s proposed changes are expected to reshape how conservation authorities operate in the coming years. Despite the planned mergers, officials from both organizations say they remain focused on protecting natural areas, managing flood risks, and continuing community services while preparing for the transition.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk met with members of the Optimist Club of Keswick this week to discuss local government and the importance of community involvement. The meeting included a tour of the new Georgina Civic Centre, which officials say will support the town as it continues to grow.

During the visit, Mayor Quirk spoke about the contributions of former Regional Councillor Danny Wheeler and former Mayor Joe Dales. She also praised local youth for staying involved in community programs and activities.

Members of the club also had the chance to meet with town staff and learn more about services offered at the new Civic Centre. Attendees said the building will play an important role in supporting residents and future growth in Georgina.

York Region says new road safety upgrades will be added this spring in Georgina and East Gwillimbury to help reduce collisions and improve traffic flow. The work is part of the region’s Vision Zero safety plan, which focuses on making roads safer for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

The upgrades will include new turn lanes, updated traffic signals, a no-right-on-red sign at one intersection, and median extensions with flexible posts. York Region says the changes are being made at intersections where collision data shows a higher number of crashes involving turning vehicles.

Regional officials say many serious collisions happen when vehicles are turning at intersections. They say the new safety measures are meant to improve visibility, guide traffic more clearly, and help prevent future crashes. Work on the upgrades is expected to begin this spring.

Brad Gardiner of the Barrie Colts has won the Roger Neilson Memorial Award as the Ontario Hockey League’s top post-secondary student. The award recognizes players who excel both academically and on the ice.

The Aurora native earned a 90 per cent average while balancing his studies with a career-best season for the Colts. Gardiner scored 31 goals and added 65 points during the season, making it his strongest offensive performance in the OHL so far.

Gardiner is also a prospect of the Dallas Stars and has now made team history. He is the first player from the Barrie Colts organization to receive the Roger Neilson Memorial Award.

The Town of Newmarket says its speed camera program brought in about $700,000 more than it cost before the province ended the program in 2025. Town officials say the cameras helped improve safety in areas where they were installed.

According to the town, average vehicle speeds dropped by 23 per cent in monitored zones, while speeding incidents fell by 78 per cent. Officials say the results showed the cameras were effective at encouraging drivers to slow down in community safety zones.

With the program now shut down, Newmarket says it will use provincial funding for other road safety efforts. Planned measures include increased police enforcement, traffic calming tools, and other initiatives aimed at reducing speeding and improving safety on local roads.

The Town of Georgina is encouraging residents to take part in the #GeorginaGrows social media contest this Earth Day season. The contest aims to celebrate tree planting and encourage people to help grow greener neighbourhoods across the community.

Residents can enter by posting a photo of their planted tree on social media, tagging @TownofGeorgina, and using the hashtag #GeorginaGrows. Participants will have a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards to a tree nursery.

The winners will be chosen at random and contacted through social media. More information about the contest is available on the town’s website.

The Town of East Gwillimbury is reminding residents that road maintenance responsibilities are shared between the municipality and York Region under the area’s two-tier government system. Officials say understanding which level of government is responsible for certain roads can help residents report issues more efficiently.

York Region is responsible for maintaining major roads in the community, including Leslie Street, 2nd Concession and McCowan Road. Regional crews handle work such as road repairs, snow clearing and ongoing maintenance on those larger routes.

East Gwillimbury crews are responsible for local roads and services within neighbourhoods, including pothole repairs, pavement resurfacing, seasonal restrictions, drainage maintenance, safety inspections and road construction management. More information and a map of regional roads in East Gwillimbury is available on the Town of East Gwillimbury website.

The Northern York South Simcoe Ontario Health Team is partnering with the Town of Georgina to offer residents a free virtual health education session later this month. The online workshop will focus on bone health and ways to help prevent fractures.

The Bone Health and Fracture Prevention Workshop will take place Wednesday, May 20, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Experts from the Centre of Arthritis Excellence will share practical tips on maintaining healthy bones, reducing the risk of falls and fractures, and supporting overall health as people age.

Officials say the session is open to residents interested in learning more about bone health and injury prevention. More information and registration details are available through the Northern York South Simcoe Ontario Health Team website.

Fire officials are marking Home Fire Sprinkler Week by reminding residents that home sprinkler systems can help stop fires quickly and improve safety. Officials say sprinkler systems are designed to react fast to heat from a fire and can often control flames in less than 90 seconds.

Officials say home sprinklers can help reduce injuries, save lives and limit damage to homes. They also remind residents that sprinkler systems work together with smoke alarms to give families more time to get out safely during a fire.

Fire officials say every new home built is a chance to improve fire safety in the community through the use of residential sprinkler systems. Residents are encouraged to learn more about the benefits of home fire sprinklers during this week’s awareness campaign.

A peaceful protest was held Saturday in Aurora following the death of a Rottweiler after an interaction involving Aurora Animal Services in East Gwillimbury. Demonstrators gathered to call for answers and greater transparency surrounding the incident, which happened on May 4.

Officials say animal services officers were responding to reports of two dogs running loose when the incident occurred. Witnesses alleged there was a prolonged struggle while officers attempted to restrain one of the dogs, during which one officer was reportedly bitten.

Mayor Tom Mrakas says the town is investigating the incident. Town officials have not released further details as the review continues.

Newmarket council will recognize the town’s aquatics team after winning the Burlington Cup for the 10th time in 11 years. The award recognizes the largest lifesaving program among Ontario municipalities with populations under 100,000. Town officials say local aquatics programs continue to see strong participation from residents of all ages.

According to the town, aquatics programs recorded more than 97,000 drop-in visits and close to 8,000 swim lesson registrations in 2025. Officials say the programs play an important role in promoting water safety, recreation, and community involvement throughout the year.

Council will also discuss proposed changes aimed at simplifying the planning process in Newmarket. Other items on the agenda include confirming a new all-way stop on Seneca Court and plans for an artificial turf field at Huron Heights Secondary School.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority says water levels on Lake Simcoe remain about 22 centimetres above normal, with flooding continuing in some low-lying shoreline areas. Communities including Georgina, Innisfil, Barrie, Orillia, and Ramara remain at higher risk for flooding.

Officials say there are also concerns about possible dike overtopping in the Keswick, Colbar, and Bradford polders if water levels rise further. Residents near the shoreline are being asked to keep an eye on conditions and take steps to protect their property from flooding and wave damage.

The conservation authority says more rain and strong winds expected this week could make conditions worse. A Shoreline Hazard Watch remains in effect until May 29 as officials continue to monitor water levels and shoreline conditions across the region.

Investigators with the York Regional Police are thanking members of the public and the media for their assistance in locating a missing youth from Richmond Hill.

Police say Avery has now been located safely. Authorities are asking anyone who may have shared the original missing person alert to remove her photo and information from circulation to help protect her privacy.

York Regional Police are also reminding residents that crime prevention is a shared community responsibility. The service encourages residents to stay informed through its Community Safety Data Portal and to consider joining the Security Camera Registry program to support ongoing community safety initiatives. The release was prepared by Constable Kevin Nebrija.

With rising temperatures more boaters heading out onto local waterways, the South Simcoe Police Marine Unit is officially back on patrol for the season. Police say residents can expect to see officers out more frequently on area lakes and rivers conducting safety checks, enforcing boating laws, and promoting safe practices on the water throughout the summer months.

The Marine Unit is reminding boaters that operating a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs carries serious consequences and can put lives at risk. Officers say boating under the influence is treated much like impaired driving on the road and can lead to criminal charges, fines, licence suspensions, and even jail time. Police are urging everyone planning to spend time on the water to make responsible choices and ensure a sober operator is always behind the wheel.

Police are also stressing the importance of having the proper safety equipment and documentation before leaving shore. Boaters are required to carry items such as lifejackets, sound signalling devices, and other mandatory safety gear depending on the size of their vessel. Officers say failing to carry the required equipment can result in costly fines. The South Simcoe Police Marine Unit is encouraging residents to prepare ahead of time and help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season for everyone.

Notre Dame Catholic Elementary School has received a $3,000 award from Twinkl Canada to help fund inclusive and adaptive classroom resources during Autism Acceptance Month. The school was chosen from more than 800 schools across Canada that entered the national giveaway.

School officials say the funding will be used to support students with diverse learning needs by purchasing tools that improve communication, participation and learning in the classroom. Planned resources include sensory materials and adaptive supports designed to help students feel more comfortable and engaged at school.

Staff say the award will help create a more inclusive learning environment for all students. The initiative also highlights the importance of supporting accessibility and acceptance in schools during Autism Acceptance Month and throughout the school year.

Sixteen-year-old Eddie Gu has moved to Florida to train year-round as he works toward a professional golf career. The Aurora golfer says the chance to practice and compete in warmer weather has helped him continue developing his game against top competition.

Along with his demanding training schedule, Gu is also keeping up strong grades in school. His recent success earned him a spot on Team Canada NextGen for 2026, a program designed to support some of the country’s top young golfers as they prepare for higher levels of competition.

Gu has also committed to attend Duke University in 2027. He says his long-term goal is to one day play professional golf and compete at the highest level of the sport.

As part of Emergency Preparedness Week, Georgina Fire and Rescue Services is reminding residents to be prepared for possible power outages and emergencies. Officials recommend keeping vehicle gas tanks at least half full, making sure electric vehicles are charged, and keeping flashlights with fresh batteries in easy-to-find places around the home.

The fire department is also warning residents not to use candles during power outages because they can create a fire risk. Instead, officials say battery-powered flashlights and lanterns are a safer option during emergencies.

The department has also partnered with Call2Recycle to offer safe battery recycling at the Keswick fire station during regular business hours. Residents can drop off used household batteries for proper recycling and disposal.

The Township of Brock has received an application for a proposed 36-unit residential development at 507 Sarah Street. The project would include a mix of housing types and would require zoning changes before moving forward.

According to the proposal, the development would feature 30 townhouse units, two single detached homes and two semi-detached dwellings. Township officials say the application is currently under review as part of the planning process.

A hybrid public meeting has been scheduled for May 25 at 6 p.m. at the township office in Cannington to gather feedback from residents. Community members will have an opportunity to learn more about the proposal and share comments or concerns before any decisions are made.

Drivers travelling along Yonge Street can expect ongoing construction as work continues on major infrastructure upgrades in the area. The project is aimed at supporting future growth and improving road and municipal services for the surrounding communities.

Crews are currently widening sections of the road and installing new infrastructure, including fire hydrants, storm sewers and watermain components. Work is also taking place on street lighting and traffic signals as part of the broader improvements along the corridor.

Traffic has been shifted in some areas to allow construction to continue while keeping lanes open for drivers. Motorists are being reminded to slow down, watch for signage and use caution when travelling through the construction zone.

Residents in Georgina can put out extra garbage during Bag Tag Exemption Week from May 19 to 22. During that time, households may place up to five garbage bags or containers at the curb without using bag tags. The program gives residents a chance to get rid of extra household waste at no additional cost.

The town says large items and white goods, including appliances, are not included in the exemption week. Those items must be picked up separately through GFL Environmental. Residents are encouraged to follow regular collection rules when setting out garbage.

Because of the Victoria Day long weekend, garbage and green bin collection will also be delayed by one day that week. Residents should check their revised pickup day to make sure materials are placed out on time.

Residents in Aurora will have a chance to share their thoughts on plans to upgrade local playgrounds during a virtual meeting this afternoon. The Town of Aurora will present updated designs for Atkinson Park as part of a broader effort to replace aging play structures.

The project also includes improvements at Optimist Park, where older equipment is due for replacement. Officials say the upgrades aim to modernize both parks and better meet the needs of families in the community.

Town staff say public feedback will play an important role in shaping the final designs, with a focus on creating inclusive play spaces that are accessible to children of all abilities.

Frontline staff at the Newmarket Public Library are raising concerns about safety, security, and workplace morale following several recent incidents. Workers say they have dealt with aggressive behaviour and, in some cases, indecent exposure, creating a stressful environment on the job.

Representatives from CUPE 905 told the library board that staffing shortages, limited management presence, and communication challenges are making the situation harder to manage. They say more consistent support and clearer procedures are needed to help staff feel safe at work.

The library board says it recognizes the concerns and is committed to making improvements. Officials have asked staff to share recommendations as they work on possible solutions to improve safety and workplace conditions.

Georgina residents are invited to clean out their homes and connect with others at the annual Swap and Sell and Electronic Recycling Event this Saturday. The event is a chance for people to find second-hand items, meet neighbours, and take part in a community activity focused on reuse.

It runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Georgina Ice Palace. Visitors can shop gently used goods or drop off old electronics to be recycled at no cost. Organizers say the event helps keep waste out of landfills and encourages people to reuse items instead of throwing them away.

Officials remind everyone to remove batteries and clear any personal information from devices before recycling them. Vendor spots are still open for residents who want to sell items and make some extra money.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority is warning that water levels on Lake Simcoe remain higher than normal, increasing the risk of shoreline flooding. Officials say the lake is sitting about 30 centimetres above typical levels, with ongoing rainfall and strong winds adding to the concern.

Low-lying areas in communities including Innisfil, Georgina, Barrie, and Orillia are already experiencing flooding. There are also concerns that dikes in parts of Keswick, Colbar, and Bradford could overtop or fail if conditions worsen.

Residents are being urged to take precautions and avoid shorelines and waterways. A high-risk shoreline hazard watch remains in effect until May 22 as officials continue to monitor conditions.

It’s Invasive Species Action Month, and residents are being reminded how easily harmful plants and animals can spread. Officials say invasive species can travel by wind, water, and wildlife, but also on everyday items like clothing, vehicles, and pets.

Visitors to the York Regional Forest are encouraged to take simple precautions when spending time outdoors. That includes cleaning bikes, brushing off clothing, and wiping down footwear or animal fur before and after leaving natural areas.

Officials say these small actions can make a big difference in protecting local ecosystems. Preventing the spread of invasive species helps safeguard forests, private property, and the broader environment across the region.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk is sharing new details about a proposed Advanced Care Centre planned for the community. Speaking with Dan Pollard, Quirk said the project is part of a broader effort to expand healthcare access for residents.

She explained that Southlake Health is developing what it calls a Distributed Healthcare Network. The approach focuses on building on existing hospital services by adding Advanced Care Centres in communities across its region, with Georgina the first to move forward with a formal request for partners.

Officials say more details, including a location and timeline, are expected soon. The goal is to provide more complete, community-based healthcare in Georgina, reducing the need for residents to travel outside the area for care.

Newmarket council is set to review several community proposals at this afternoon’s meeting, including a potential partnership with the York Region District School Board to build a new artificial turf field at Huron Heights Secondary School. The project aims to help meet growing demand for local sports and recreation space.

Council will also consider a plan to demolish a vacant building at 95 Main Street South as part of ongoing efforts to manage unused properties. In addition, a recommendation has been put forward to install an all-way stop at Seneca Court and Rushbrook Drive due to safety concerns raised in the area.

The meeting will be open to the public and streamed online, giving residents a chance to follow the discussion and decisions. Officials say the items on the agenda reflect ongoing work to improve community spaces and address local safety needs.

GO Transit says schedules on the Barrie line are being temporarily adjusted from today until the 14th due to construction work supporting future service improvements. The changes are part of ongoing efforts to expand and upgrade the transit network.

During this time, some trains will depart earlier and arrive later than usual. A number of trips will also shift from Aurora GO Station to Maple GO Station, and commuters may experience longer connection times with buses.

Officials are encouraging riders to check updated schedules before travelling to avoid delays. The temporary adjustments are tied to broader GO Expansion work aimed at improving service in the long term.

Southlake Health has put out a request for partners to help build a new Advanced Care Centre in Georgina. The project is intended to expand healthcare services in the area and make it easier for residents to get care closer to home.

The proposed centre is part of Southlake’s Distributed Health Network plan, which focuses on bringing more services into local communities. The goal is to reduce pressure on hospitals by offering care like tests and treatments outside of larger facilities.

Officials say the next steps will help decide where the centre will be built and when construction could begin. In the long term, the plan is to provide more complete, community-based healthcare for people living in Georgina.

More than 1,800 runners took part in the annual XACT Georgina Spring Fling Marathon this weekend, marking a significant increase of 300 participants over last year’s event. Presented by Endurance Event Productions, the popular race continues to draw athletes from across the province to experience the fast, scenic course through Georgina.

Organizers say weather conditions couldn’t have been better, with cool temperatures and threatening rain holding off throughout the race. While there had been concerns earlier in the week about possible flooding along sections of the route, those worries faded as the course dried out significantly in the days leading up to the event.

The strong turnout and smooth race-day conditions made for a successful event, with participants and spectators alike praising the organization and atmosphere. With growing numbers year over year, the XACT Georgina Spring Fling Marathon continues to cement its reputation as a premier spring running event in the region.

The Georgina Chamber of Commerce says this year’s Discover Georgina Show is shaping up to be its biggest yet, with a completely sold-out floor and a record 90 exhibitors. Organizers note that’s an increase of 14 vendors compared to last year, reflecting growing interest from local businesses eager to connect with the community and showcase their products and services.

The annual event highlights the diversity of businesses across Georgina, from retail and home services to tourism and wellness. Attendees can expect a wide range of booths, interactive displays, and opportunities to meet local entrepreneurs face-to-face. The chamber says the strong exhibitor turnout is a positive sign of continued economic momentum in the region.

With demand for booth space exceeding expectations, organizers say the sellout underscores the popularity of the Discover Georgina Show among both businesses and residents. The event continues to serve as a key platform for networking, promotion, and community engagement, reinforcing its reputation as one of the area’s premier annual showcases.

After five decades of community support, the Upper Canada Easter Seals Run, Walk and Roll in Newmarket will hold its final event on May 31 at Riverwalk Commons. The long-running fundraiser has been a staple in the community since it was founded in 1976 by Joe Persechini.

Over the years, the event has raised more than $4 million in support of children and youth with disabilities through Easter Seals Ontario. Generations of participants have taken part, helping to build a strong tradition of giving and local involvement.

While the run is coming to an end, organizers say the Persechini Charity Midway will continue, ensuring the community can still support the cause in the years ahead. They say the change will allow the spirit of the event to carry on in a new way while maintaining its focus on helping those in need.

York Region is set to welcome a new police leader, as Deputy Chief Paulo Da Silva has been appointed Chief of York Regional Police effective June 27. He will take over the role as the service continues its focus on community safety and policing across the region.

The York Regional Police Association congratulated Da Silva on his appointment and expressed optimism about maintaining a strong and collaborative working relationship. The association noted the importance of steady leadership and cooperation as policing needs continue to evolve.

Georgina Mayor Margaret Quirk also offered her support, saying she looks forward to working with the new chief on behalf of local residents. She emphasized the value of partnership between municipal leaders and police to address community concerns and enhance public safety.

Today marks the first day of Youth Week in Georgina, bringing a variety of activities aimed at keeping young people active, engaged, and connected. The annual event highlights opportunities for youth to participate in recreation and community programs throughout the week.

Today’s lineup features a range of sports, including basketball, badminton, pickleball, and dodgeball. Public swimming is also available, along with a dedicated Teen Zone at the MURC, giving participants a space to relax, socialize, and take part in organized activities.

Organizers say Youth Week is designed to encourage young people to try new experiences, meet peers, and build a stronger connection to their community. Events will continue throughout the week, offering something for a wide range of interests and age groups.