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Newsletter: February 2023

The winter season is moving right along. The new year has been positive and busy both here in Simcoe-Grey and at Queen’s Park with special meetings and many enjoyable visits around the riding. Here are some of the February 2023 highlights.



Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson spoke about Bill 60, Your Health Act, 2023, at Queen’s Park on Monday February 27, 2023. “We want to make sure that we take care of our residents and provide them with the care they need and that is why this government is proposing to make bold and innovative changes to ensure that we do just that!”


Northern Ontario Justice Centre

I had the honour to accompany Minister Doug Downey & Greg Rickford to announce the opening of the Kenora Justice Centre. Led by partnering local indigenous groups, the first-ever Northern Ontario Justice Centre will focus on both criminal & restorative justice.

On Monday February 6th, the Ontario government, in collaboration with Indigenous leaders, the Ontario Court of Justice and community partners, launched the opening of the Kenora Justice Centre. Designed with and for the Kenora community, the innovative Centre will hold individuals accountable for their offences, while providing community-led supports through health care, education, housing and other social-service providers. Wrap-around programs will be delivered by specialized teams that include Indigenous-led organizations, and mental health and addictions counsellors.

CLICK HERE to read the full article on my website


Collingwood Coldest Night of the Year Event

I was very happy to see such a large crowd participate in the Collingwood Coldest Night of the Year walk on Saturday February 25th. People were so happy to be able to get together in person once again to walk and raise money for local charities that work so hard to help people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. Since 2011, the Coldest Night of the Year has raised over $57,000,000 across Canada in 166 communities – 100% of net proceeds stay local to support our CNOY charity partners. Locally, the Collingwood walk hit its target of $185,000 this year.

Alliston Coldest Night of the Year Event

The crowd was large and spirits were high at the Alliston Coldest Night of the Year Event. Walkers were raising money and awareness for S.H.I.F.T (Support and Hope for Individuals and Families Today), an organization that provides safe, respectful, and welcoming emergency overnight accommodation, meals and supports to those experiencing or at-risk of experiencing homelessness and/or food insecurity in South Simcoe.

The Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is a winterrific family-friendly walk to raise money for local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. The Coldest Night of the Year has raised over $56,000,000 in 166 communities across Canada since it began in 2011.

There was a huge turnout at the Alliston Coldest Night of the Year Event

Hockey Battles Cancer Raises over $20,000

Official faceoff for Hockey Battles Cancer game in Collingwood

It was a big night for the community and the Collingwood Blues at the Eddie Bush Arena on Saturday February 25th as the team hosted the Hockey Battles Cancer Night. The event raised over $20,000 thanks to the generosity of team supporters and members of the community. On the ice, the Blues clinched first place in their division by beating the Markham Royals 2-1 in front of a sellout crowd of over 1,000 happy fans.


Trillium Funding for Collingwood YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka

The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka was joined by MPP Brian Saunderson and Debora Bloom Hall, an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) volunteer, to celebrate a $150,000 Capital grant it received from OTF recently. The grant will help fund critical roof repairs, helping to ensure the longevity of the popular Collingwood YMCA facility. 

Debora Bloom Hall – Ontario Trillium Foundation/G&M Hospital Foundation

A picture is worth a thousand words, and sometimes a few raindrops! The Trillium Fund grant money will help fund critical roof repairs, and what better way to celebrate the occasion than to pop open a few umbrellas in the main lobby of the Collingwood YMCA! All in good fun!


Pictured above, Left-to-Right: General Manager YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka – Dale Rowe, Lianne Gorbell,- YMCA Senior Leadership Team, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Debora Bloom Hall – Ontario Trillium Foundation/G&M Hospital Foundation, Centre Manager Shelley Everitt, General Manager YMCA Simcoe-Muskoka Nilusha Premasinghe – Regional General Manager of the Collingwood, Midland and Wasaga Beach YMCAs and YMCA Board Member Dr. Robert Reid.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE – ADDITIONAL PHOTOS


Stayner Siskins – Alliston Hornets Hockey

Clearview Mayor Doug Measures, Simcoe-Grey MP Terry Dowdall, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson

I recently joined Clearview Mayor Doug Measures and Simcoe-Grey MP Terry Dowdall at the Stayner Siskins Junior “C” home game against the Alliston Hornets, a long-time rival. The arena was full and these long-time rivals did not disappoint fans for both teams. On this night the Hornets scored an empty net goal to win 4-2 in what was an exciting hockey game from start to finish.


Ontario Investing in Advanced Machinery for Students in Simcoe-Grey

Funding will Help Train High School Students for the Jobs of the Future
The Ontario government is investing $106,782 to purchase high-tech machines for high schools in Simcoe-Grey helping young people gain the skills they need to prepare for careers in tooling and machining.  

Details were announced recently by Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey, on behalf of Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. Simcoe-Grey MPP Saunderson states “this investment is part of our Government’s commitment to ensuring our students have access to the best and most current technology to develop skills for their future careers.”

Simcoe-Grey schools receiving machines:  
Nottawasaga Pines Secondary School – Angus: $69,752.00
Collingwood Collegiate Institute: $37,030.00

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE on my website


Reinhart’s Food Tour

I had the pleasure of touring Reinhart Foods in Stayner recently. The Stayner location is truly an important link to our area’s heritge as it represents the site where John Reinhart founded the company in 1910. John Reinhart, with sons Ben & Alvin initially produced apple products — butter, cider and juice — from locally grown apples. Today, the company has expanded across Canada. Locally, the Reinhart Foods Stayner Plant produces white and specialty vinegars as well as numerous baking ingredients (maraschino cherries, glace fruit, coconut, dates, raisins) for both industrial and retail.

CLICK HERE to visit the Reinhart Foods website

(left-to-right) Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Tim Quinlan (VP Production), Jeff Singer (VP (owner), Karen Robinson (Director, Quality, Compliance & Innovation) and Scott Singer (VP (owner)


Pink Shirt Day

I was happy to wear pink at Queen’s Park today in support of Pink Shirt Day. I was thinking of people like Trevor Henson, a strong champion for anti-bullying in our community. Let’s all stand up and speak out against all types of bullying.

A special flag raising ceremony was held in front of the Collingwood Public Library. 
More photos on my website.


ELVIS was in the building!

It was my pleasure to meet with Elvis Stojko, three-time World Champion (1994, 1995, 1997), two-time Olympic silver medalist (1994, 1998), and seven-time Canadian Champion (1994, 1996–2000, and 2002), Family Day holiday Monday afternoon at the Mike Jackson Collingwood Blues Junior “A” hockey game. Stojko and his family were special guests of the Collingwood Blues at this special event at the downtown Eddie Bush Memorial Arena. In addition, the Collingwood Skating Club performed between the second and third periods. The Blues defeated the Caledon Admirals 3-1 much to the delight of the big Family Day hometown crowd.


Road Trip!

Recently, My wife Susie and I were invited to the Owen Sound Attack game against the Saginaw Spirit. It was the Hockey for Hospice Night with a sell out crowd and was a huge success. Thank you to Janet Fairbridge and the Grey Bruce Hospice Inc. Team for the great night and congratulations on such a successful event.

We had the honour of sitting next to Seat 12, Section A, Row L, which was the season ticket seat of the late Bill Murdoch, long time MPP for Bruce Grey and a great hockey fan who sadly passed away last year at the Chapman House.


Blue Mountain Ratepayers Association

Jim Torrance, President of the Blue Mountain Ratepayers Association hosted the meeting.

I met with members of the Blue Mountain Ratepayers Association at the Marsh Street Centre in Clarksburg on Friday February 17th to discuss Bill 23 and the housing crisis in their community. Thank you to the members for taking the time to meet with me.  We had an excellent discussion.

The Blue Mountain Ratepayers Association serves in an advocacy role with Town Council and staff on behalf of ratepayers to ensure and enhance our community’s quality of life.

More on my website


Standing Committee on Justice Policy

On Tuesday January 31st, the Standing Committee on Justice Policy commenced public hearings on the study of reform in Canada’s bail system as it relates to the provincial administration of justice and public safety.

Simcoe-Grey MPP Parliamentary Assistant to the Attorney General Brian Saunderson poses questions to Chief Myron Demkiw of the Toronto Police Service at the Standing Committee on Justice Policy Study on the reform of Canada’s bail system.


Speed Nation – Alpine Nationals at Blue Mountain

The Hon. Neil Lumsden, MPP Hamilton East—Stoney Creek – Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, took part in podium presentations of both Canadian and NorAM winners on Monday January 30th.

Simcoe-Grey has been in the national and international spotlight once again. Blue Mountain Resort hosted the FIS Snowboard World Cup followed by the Speed Nation – Alpine Nationals featuring top North American athletes competing over four days. I was very pleased to attend with The Hon. Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, to take in some of the fast paced competition.

January 30th and 31st featured the NorAm PGS / Senior Nationals. February 1st and 2nd will feature the FIS PGS / Junior Nationals / Youth Nationals.

More on my website


Ontario Association of Landscape Architects Family Snow and Ski Day

I was happy to meet with skiers and boarders at the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects Family Snow and Ski Day on Friday February 3rd at the Alpine Ski Club in The Blue Mountains. The weather added to the outdoor experience because as you recall Friday was a very stormy, bitterly cold winter day throughout South Georgian Bay. Participants enjoyed an abundance of activities including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, guided snowshoeing, ski and boarding lessons and a fun ski race! 

The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA) is a self-regulating professional association that has been in operation in Ontario since 1968. As the regulator for the title landscape architect in Ontario, the OALA serves the public interest, and is a place of community, learning and growth for its members.

Learn more about the OALA by visiting its website.


International Award for Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain

Pictured above, left-to-right: Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Spa Owner/Operators Mylisa Henderson and Rob Cederberg, the Hon. Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain.

A popular, long-time attraction in Simcoe-Grey has received top international recognition. It was my pleasure to stop by Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain Swith The Hon. Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, to present certificates and congratulate them on being ranked #1 Spa in Canada and #1 Nordic Spa in North America in Spas of America’s 2022 Top 100 List.

#1 Spa in Canada in 2022

#1 Nordic Spa in North America in 2022

#2 Spa in North America in 2022

This is an incredible accomplishment and well deserved recognition.


Pre-Budget Tour Continues

I was in #Barrie on Friday February 10th for pre-budget discussions with area stakeholders. The well attended event was hosted by the Barrie Chamber of Commerce. I was in attendance with MPP’s Caroline MulroneyJill DunlopDoug Downey and Andrea KhanjinRick Byers, Member of Provincial Parliament for Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, did a terrific job hosting the event.


Meetings Continue with Simcoe-Grey Town Officials

Township of Adjala-Tosorontio

I have been visiting with Town officials throughout Simcoe-Grey to discuss matters of local and provincial interest, and how I can be of assistance as the Simcoe-Grey MPP at Queen’s Park.

I was happy to spend time with Township of Adjala-Tosorontio Mayor Scott Anderson an CAO Nelson Santos on Friday February 24th to talk about local and provincial issues.

Essa

Pictured above, left-to-right: Essa Councillor Henry Sander, Mayor Sandie Macdonald, CAO Colleen Healey-Dowdall, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.

New Tecumseth

Pictured above, left-to-right: New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, CAO Blaine Parkin.


E3 Community Services

It is important to recognize the outstanding work of everyone at E3 Community Services at all times, but especially during Non-Profit Sector Appreciation Week.

E3 Community Services Inc CEO Christine Vallis-Page says the past few years have been challenging with rising costs and staffing shortages. Many of those challenges continue. “We remain proud to serve a marginalized population of South Georgian Bay as well as numerous families through our children’s programs.”

https://e3.ca/


Matthew’s House Hospice Alliston

I visited Matthews House Hospice in Alliston to announce they will receive $1.128 million from the Ministry of Health, over 3 years, to fund community outreach projects to assist those living with life limiting illnesses and their caregivers.

Matthews House located in Alliston, Ontario provides hospice and community services supporting living life fully and dying with dignity. We walk together with families and community members through the journey of illness and grief offering a variety of day programs, counselling and palliative care. The management, staff and volunteers believe everyone should have access to the right palliative and bereavement care when and where they need it.

https://matthews.house/

Visiting Angus Schools

Tour of Angus Morrison Elementary School

Thank you to Simcoe County District School Board Trustee Adjala-Tosorontio/Clearview/CFB Borden/Essa Brandy Rafeek for arranging a tour of the schools in Angus and arranging meetings with school administrators who highlighted their programs and the great work of their staff and students.

Left-to-Right: Simcoe County District School Board Superintendent Greg Jacobs, Essa Township Deputy Mayor Mike Smith, SCDSB Trustee Brandy Rafeek, Morrison Elementary School Principal Suzanne Laybolt, Vice Principal Sue Moxam, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.

Nottawasaga Pines Secondary School in Angus

Tour of Nottawasaga Pines Secondary School in Angus.
(Left to Right: Simcoe County District School Board Superintendent Greg Jacobs, SCDSB Trustee Brandy Rafeek, Essa Township Deputy Mayor Mike Smith, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson and Essa CAO Colleen Healey-Dowdall listening to Principal Kelly Lalonde)

Pine River Elementary School in Angus

Left-to-Right: Pine River Elementary School Vice-Principal David Richter, Essa Township Deputy Mayor Mike Smith, Simcoe County District School Board Superintendent Greg Jacobs, SCDSB Trustee Brandy Rafeek (back to camera), SCDSB Superintendent Greg Jacobs, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.


The Future of Simcoe-Grey Secondary Schools

In late January, Minister of Education Stephen Lecce announced the Ontario government will invest $42.5 million to build a new school to replace the aging Banting Memorial High School in Alliston. The new high school will be designed to meet the needs of just over 1,200 students.

At the time, the Alliston secondary school (pictured above) was the oldest functioning school in the riding.

MPP Saunderson said decisions need to be finalized on the proposed size and catchment area of a new CCI in light of recent growth patterns in both Collingwood and nearby Wasaga Beach. 

“We have decisions to make about locating a new high school in Wasaga Beach and then scope the size of what will be the replacement school in Collingwood, so there is a lot of work to be done.  This is a government that is recognizing the importance of making sure that our communities have the infrastructure they need to serve our residents and provide the best and most up-to-date facilities” MPP Saunderson said.

Full Story on my website  and more on the February PODCAST!

www.briansaundersonmpp.ca/podcasts

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https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?visual=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F1423419979&show_artwork=true&maxheight=750&maxwidth=500


CONTACT Community Services

CONTACT Community Services is a registered charity with a 40-year history of working in the communities of South Simcoe. CONTACT focuses on providing resources to persons and families in low-income situations to allow them to establish the stability necessary to pursue a viable future. The vital charity provides Housing Services, Employment Services, Community Programs, Volunteer South Simcoe, The Clothes Line and Community Information. Programs are regional in scope, open to all members of the community, and are free of charge.


Side Door Studio Grand Opening

Owners Tiffany and Laura along with Essa Mayor Sandie Macdonald and Essa Councillor Pieter Kiezebrink cut the ribbon to officially open the Side Door Yoga Studio in Angus.

There was a huge turnout of family, community leaders and friends to celebrate the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at the Side Door Yoga Studio in Angus on Saturday February 4th. Congratulations to owners Tiffany and Laura!  
More on my website

(20+) Side Door Studio | Angus ON | Facebook


South Simcoe Physiotherapy

Pictured above:Ryan Shea, Owner of South Simcoe Physiotherapy, Cathy Laws Constituency Assistant

South Simcoe Physiotherapy recently opened a new, second office in Tottenham. All therapists are registered physiotherapists and are members of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Each therapist strives to stay current on breaking techniques, constantly upgrading their skills. Visit them on FACEBOOK for the latest news from the new location!


C-C-C-C-Cold … But lots of fun!

I had a great time at the 48th Sunnidale Winterama. Congratulations to the organizing committee for battling the weather and putting together such a fantastic event, and thank you to Mayor Doug Measures for the invitation to ride on the Clearview Council float in the parade. Despite the cold temperatures (-15 C), there were over 200 people lining the parade route – a true display of Canadian mettle.  The night before, Mayor Measures, Clearview staff and many volunteers quickly came to the aid of stranded motorists by opening a warming centre at the Stayner Community Centre.  At one point, close to 60 people were in the centre, stranded by the winter storm.  Pictured above, on the left, Simcoe-Grey MP Terry Dowdall, Clearview Mayor Doug Measures and Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.


I was pleased to meet with members of Architectural Conservancy Ontario and discussed the importance of heritage conservation in Simcoe-Grey to benefit housing, economic development, the environment and tourism.
https://acontario.ca

I was pleased to meet with Dariya and Foram from Heart & Stroke this week to talk about their initiatives to prevent death and reduce disability from heart disease and stroke through research, health promotion and advocacy.
https://www.heartandstroke.ca/


Ontario’s 2023 Budget Release Date Announced

Our government has announced the release date for Ontario’s 2023 Budget, a plan to build a strong future for Ontario. Today Minister Bethlenfalvy announced that the 2023 Budget will be released on March 23. Our government is continuing to build a strong future for Ontario by investing in critical infrastructure, our workforce and our people.

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Ontario Provides More Money for Public Transit in Simcoe County:

Province tops up gas tax funding to make up for lower gas sales.

Simcoe County – The Ontario government is providing more money to support the expansion and improvement of public transit services in Simcoe County. The funding is part of the province’s gas tax program which will allocate more than $379.5 million to help 107 municipalities operate and improve local transit. The funding for Simcoe County is as follows:

Clearview Township – $129,952

Town of Collingwood – $347,929

Town of New Tecumseth – $125,815

Town of Wasaga Beach – $229,281

County of Simcoe – $1,375,032

2022-23 Gas Tax Funding by Municipality | Ontario Newsroom

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