Newsletter: June 2023
A very happy 90th birthday to my mentor, friend and father, Bill Saunderson. We had a wonderful family gathering with children, grandchildren and great grandchildren to celebrate this incredible occasion.
Congratulations Dad!!
G&M Implements Changes to in-hospital Masking Protocols and reverts back to pre-pandemic Visitor Policy
COLLINGWOOD, ON – June 29, 2023 – Effective today, June 29, 2023, CGMH has implemented changes to its in-hospital masking protocols based on local and provincial health recommendations, and in alignment with changes made by regional health care partners.
CGMH remains a mask friendly facility for all those wishing to wear a mask, but masks are no longer mandatory in the hospital’s front lobby, hallways and communal areas. However, masking remains mandatory for health care workers, volunteers, patients, visitors, essential care partners, vendors and contractors in:
- patient waiting rooms
- designated waiting areas
- patient treatment/exam rooms, where patient care is provided
- all inpatient rooms
Level 1 masks are available at Central Registration for all patients and accompanying visitors going to an appointment or ambulatory clinic visit. Masks remain at the front of the emergency department and at the front entrance of the hospital for patients heading to dialysis and for inpatient visitors.
Additionally, the hospital will also be returning to its pre-pandemic visitor policy. Complete details are available under the Visitor’s page on CGMH.ON.CA
Blue Mountains Public Library Gets a Facelift 155 years in the Making
Blue Mountains Public Library received $406,250 through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure’s (ICIO) Community Culture and Recreation (CCR) Funding Stream, a joint Canada/Ontario grant for the renovations of the heritage community museum. BMPL also celebrated the work done with a $20,700 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation that was awarded last July to hybridize the main branch’s Gallery and Boardroom.
“Today’s funding announcement is great news for our region. This investment in the well-loved and historic Craigleith Heritage Depot will breath new life and purpose into a fantastic space,” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey. “Libraries have always been inclusive centres of community. I am excited to see that crucial resources and services will now extend from the main Thornbury site to this new satellite location in Craigleith.”
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Ontario Building New School in Wasaga Beach
Wasaga Beach, ON – As part of the province’s ongoing efforts to build and improve local schools, the Ontario government has provided the Simcoe County District School Board with approval to award the tender for the new Wasaga Beach Public School. This is supported by an investment of $22.5 million.
Once completed, this project will deliver 406 elementary spaces for local families. The investment is part of the Ontario government’s commitment to providing approximately $15 billion to support school construction, repair, and renewal over 10 years. Since 2018, the government has approved nearly 200 school construction projects and the development of more than 300 child care and education building related projects, of which more than 100 are actively under construction.
“The funding for a new Wasaga Beach Public School is great news for our Wasaga Beach community,” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey. “This investment will ensure families and students have access to a quality learning environment in the years ahead.”
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Honda Canada Manufactured 10 Millionth Vehicle in Alliston
In attendance to meet with MPP Saunderson were Shinya Yamanaka, VP, Aaron Virtue, Manager, Planning Department, Yoshiyuki Nakazawa, EVP, Jean Marc Leclerc, President & CEO, Hanif Nori, Manager, Government & Environmental Affairs, and Mat Ward, VP.
VIDEO: Honda Canada hit a massive milestone recently when it manufactured its 10 millionth vehicle in Alliston. Jean Marc Leclerc, President & CEO, said it was a great accomplishment for Honda and for Canada manufacturing. “The economic impact of having achieved 10 million vehicles built here is really the ripple effect of the economy in Simcoe County, Alliston and Ontario. With every job that is here, there is a ripple effect of eight or nine times on the supplier base” Leclerc said, adding that while 10 million vehicles produced at the Alliston plant is a great milestone, he is looking forward to 20 million.
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Georgian receives $500,000 to inspire a new generation for the automotive electrification industry
left to right: Mira Ray, Executive Director, Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship; Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College; Doug Downey, MPP – (Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte); and Theresa Watt, Technological Education Facilitator, Renewal & Sustainability.
Photo supplied by Georgian College
NEWS RELEASE: Georgian College: Georgian College, in partnership with the Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) and Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board (BGCDSB), is inspiring a new generation to build careers in the emerging automotive electrification industry thanks to a grant of $500,000 from Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network’s Regional Future Workforce Program.
“At Georgian, we’re committed to optimizing the learning environment including expanded use of immersive technology,” said Kevin Weaver, president and CEO, Georgian College. “We’re grateful to the Ontario Centre of Innovation for awarding funding to our innovative project that will allow us to introduce this technology and the careers it will create to our future workforce.”
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Good Samaritan Seniors Complex 50th Anniversary in Alliston
It is known locally as the “Good Sam.” The Good Samaritan Seniors Complex in Alliston is well known throughout Simcoe County for its well earned reputation of providing quality care and services.
The Good Samaritan is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Originally opened in 1973, this privately owned complex was reconfigured in 2002 when a new long-term care home was built on the property. The original home was renovated and re-opened as the adjoining retirement lodge in 2004.
After 50 years of service to Alliston, the Good Samaritan Seniors Complex now looks ahead to continuing to provide the quality in care and services that it has come to be known for.
Wasaga Beach Seniors Expo
Executive Assistant to MPP Brian Saunderson and Manager of Strategic Initiatives Jamie Berman was on hand to greet visitors at the MPP’s booth. Many, many people will be enjoying their morning coffee out of a brand new MPP Saunderson coffee mug tomorrow!
June was Seniors Month. The Wasaga Beach Seniors Expo at the Rec Plex on Mosley Street featured a record number of exhibitors and huge crowds on Wednesday June 21st. Over 70 exhibitors participated in the 2023 event that featured demonstrations, live music, health and wellness information, a barbecue put on by the Wasaga Beach Youth Centre’s Grill Team and a lot of positive discussion about matters of importance to our senior population in Simcoe-Grey. The Seniors Expo provided many opportunities for seniors to talk to exhibitors who were standing by to help everyone live their best lives.
June was Seniors Month. A time to recognize the important contributions of our greatest generation
Stayner Manor General Manager Nina Bifolchi (far right) invited me to visit, meet with residents and tour the facility
We celebrated Seniors Month throughout Simcoe-Grey in June, and on Friday June 2nd, I had the privilege of meeting a terrific group of people in Stayner.
At Stayner’s Blue Mountain Manor, they take senior enjoyment seriously. General Manager Nina Bifolchi stresses the importance of ensuring residents are well looked after. Bifolchi talked of upgrades underway to improve the every day experience for those who call Blue Mountain Manor home. Something as simple as replacing drapes in the games room to let the sun shine in can put a smile on a resident’s face first thing in the morning. Providing a little extra service in the dining room at meal time is important. It is this attention to detail Bifolchi and the staff at Blue Mountain Manor strive to deliver on a daily basis. Of most importance is making sure all residents are happy and comfortable.
Activities are designed to promote senior health and happiness. Located close to downtown, Blue Mountain Manor offers easy access to restaurants, special events, and festivals, markets and entertainment.
Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Collingwood Lawn Bowling Club to celebrate upgrades/restoration work made possible by an Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant.
“This is a big day. You have $73,200 to help with your capital improvements” MPP Saunderson said. “Lawn Bowling has a long and proud history in Collingwood, and you are growing it again. For over 35 years, the Collingwood Lawn Bowling Club has provided players with an enjoyable outdoor sports option that not only provides multiple health benefits, but fosters a sense of community connectedness amongst club members. Thank you to all members and volunteers, past and present, who have contributed to ensuring that the CLBC remains a vibrant, safe recreational activity for all who wish to take part for many years to come.”
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Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson, Don Maclean – Chairman – Maclean Engineering. In 2014, Don MacLean was inducted into the International Mining Hall of Fame.
A Collingwood success story, MacLean Engineering, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Long-time miner, entrepreneur and professional Mining Engineer, Don MacLean, founded the company in 1973. From modest beginnings retrofitting farm tractors out of an apple orchard barn in Thornbury, MacLean Engineering has grown to become a global force for hard rock mining innovation on the back of flagship, industry-changing products, notably the Series 900 Scissor Bolter and the remote-controlled Blockholer Drill.
Fifty years of hard work and innovation has seen MacLean Engineering take its place as the world’s largest Canadian-based underground mining vehicle manufacturer. The company employees in excess of 1,100 employees globally.
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St. Elizabeth Health
Here I am with Sarah Bird, Regional Director, Tara Gate, and Carrie Pyatt, Personal Support Manager. Kyle Reaburn, Public Affairs, was part of our conversation and took this picture.
I had the opportunity to accompany Tara Gate, a Registered Nurse with St. Elizabeth Health, on part of her rounds in Wasaga Beach serving clients in their homes. Tara is a consummate professional and provides exceptional care to her clients.
Community-based care is an integral component of Ontario’s healthcare system. Our government’s plan for connected and convenient care puts emphasis on patient-centred service as well as ensuring that individuals receive the right care, in the right place. It was a pleasure to meet with Tara & Kyle today, both dedicated healthcare professions from SE Health. I would also like to extend my thanks to those who welcomed me into their homes today, so I could see our frontline workers in action.
SE Health is proud to be one of Canada’s largest social enterprises. Thank you to Tara, Carrie, Sarah and Kyle and the St. Elizabeth Health Team for all they do providing quality care and serving patients in our community.
Learn more about SE Health by clicking here to visit the web site.
Ontario Investing $259,974 in Free Pre-apprenticeship Training in Alliston
Funding will help train 15 people for in-demand jobs in the skilled trades and address the labour shortage
The Ontario government is working for workers by investing $259,974 to boost pre apprenticeship training and help more people in Simcoe-Grey get trained for meaningful and well-paying careers in an in-demand industry. This funding is part of the government’s record investment in nearly 100 free pre-apprenticeship programs around the province to promote careers in the skilled trades to young people and help tackle the province’s historic labour shortage.
“Ontario’s skilled trades are vital to the growth of the economy and our government’s Plan to Build, offering careers that lead to secure jobs and a good quality of life,” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey. “I would like to extend my thanks to Mike MacEachern, Executive Director at Focus Community Development, and his team of dedicated professionals, who work hard to provide quality service to the individuals they assist.”
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Alliston Community Leaders Discussion Group
I was pleased to meet with this important group of community leaders in my Alliston office. Thank you all for taking the time to get together for a terrific discussion.
Mike MacEachern – Executive Director FOCUS Community Development Corporation
Peter Barbati – Vice President Tottenham & Beeton District Chamber Of Commerce Inc.
Susan Lacoucci- Coordinator Beeton Tottenham Business Improvement Association – BTBIA (BIA)
Lachlan McGurk – Bern’s Flowers & Gifts Owner
Robyn Caruana – President Tottenham & Beeton District Chamber Of Commerce Inc.
CHATS Celebrates Seniors Month
CHATS – Community Home Assistance to Seniors celebrated Seniors Month in Alliston – New Tecumseth with a special Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday June 6th.
Cathy Laws, Constituency Assistant to Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson presented CHATS officials with a certificate on behalf of the Province of Ontario in recognition of the organization’s ongoing contribution to the community in delivering client-centred programs and services for older adults based on their unique wants and needs.
“We help to inspire older adults to discover the possibilities of aging at home longer and staying safe for better quality of independent living. We also work to empower caregivers to look after themselves, so they can better provide compassionate assistance to those they care for.”
New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross and Deputy Mayor Stephanie MacLellan joined CHATS Chief Executive Officer Christina Bisanz and Darlene Morrison, CHATS Communications, External Relations & Development Lead at today’s event.
Catulpa Community Support Services 50th Anniversary
Stephanie Rumball, Communications Manager & Vicky Schenk, Director of Services, Catulpa Community Support Services
On behalf of Premier Doug Ford, the Province of Ontario and the residents of Simcoe-Grey, I am proud to extend congratulations and best wishes to Catulpa Community Support Services on this remarkable anniversary.
Fifty years of dedication to improving the lives of children, youth, adults and families with special or unique needs throughout the region indeed is indeed, something to celebrate.
I know that while your organization looks back at the first 50 years with an incredible sense of pride, your dream of a future where all people are recognized and valued as contributing members of the community will continue, as you move on to the next chapter of working with local leaders and government agencies, to achieve positive outcomes on behalf of the people you serve.
Fifty years of community support represents a remarkable achievement. You are appreciated and you are to be congratulated.
Stevenson Memorial Hospital Releases New Hospital Renderings
[New Tecumseth, ON – June 19, 2023] Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) is thrilled to share new renderings of the hospital, which showcase what the exterior of the hospital will look like once the redevelopment is complete. Construction is slated to take place in 2025 with the expansion estimated to be complete in 2028.
Created by Kasian Architecture, the primary design consultants for the redevelopment project, the design features significant use of natural light, modern features, enhanced parking and a dedicated entrance for the Emergency Department, which will triple in size. Design features are inspired by local history, landscape, traditions and culture.
The renderings are part of the hospital’s Stage 2.1 Block Schematics proposal to the Ministry of Health which will be submitted at the end of June. The Ministry has updated the capital planning process to include nine steps within three sections, with construction beginning in the third section.
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The Collingwood General and Marine Hospital Reaches Important Milestone in its Planning for a New Hospital
COLLINGWOOD, ON – June 20, 2023 – The Collingwood General and Marine Hospital (CGMH) has reached a major milestone in its journey to build a new state of the art hospital with the submission of its Functional Program to the Ministry of Health.
The recent Stage 1.3 planning submission is the culmination of 18 months of collaborative work from CGMH patients, employees, physicians and volunteers who have helped to shape the future services and space of the new hospital to meet the fast-growing needs of the South Georgian Bay region.
Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson said the process is moving along as it should. “This is good news and is the result of ongoing excellent work by Michael Lacroix, CGMH President and CEO, his team, and Barry Goodwin, CGMH Board Chair and Board members. I look forward to getting a positive outcome from the province” Saunderson said.
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In his latest PODCAST, Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson talks about Ontario Trillium Foundation grants to help lawn bowling clubs upgrade their facilities in Alliston and Collingwood, businesses in the riding that are cutting-edge and taking their place on the national and international stage, the changing demands facing food banks in the riding, funding for Hospice in Collingwood and Alliston and his address in the Ontario Legislature in support of Bill 93, The Better Schools and Student Outcomes Act. These topics and more on THE PODCAST. Thanks for listening …
Wasaga Beach Public Library receives $23,000 in grant funding to support seniors
(Wasaga Beach, ON, June 15, 2023) – The Wasaga Beach Public Library (WBPL) is excited to announce it has been chosen as a recipient of the 2023-24 Seniors Community Grant Program. The grant will contribute over $23,000 in funding to support the WBPL Seniors Cultural Connections program to provide older adults in Wasaga Beach with new cultural opportunities.
As announced by Minister of Seniors and Accessibility of Ontario, Raymond Cho, on June 1st, the provincial government is investing up to $6 million dollars in over 280 projects across the province. These projects promote social inclusion, volunteerism, and community engagement.
“Across the province, June is a time when we pay formal tribute to our seniors. Ontario’s older adults are the province’s fastest growing demographic, and they are to be celebrated for the contributions they have made to our communities. It’s important that they know we are working hard to provide them with grants such as this one, that will be used by the Wasaga Beach Public Library to provide opportunities for them to keep active and socially connected close to their home.” said Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe Grey. “I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to WBPL CEO Pamela Pal and her dedicated team of staff and volunteers who work hard to deliver quality programming that makes a big difference in the lives of seniors in Wasaga Beach.”
To get the latest updates on this program and others that the library offers, you can follow the library on social media or sign up for their email newsletter at wasagabeachpubliclibrary.ca.
Olympic Day Team Canada / Équipe Canada has developed into much more than just a sports event. Based on the three pillars “move”, “learn” and “discover”, National Olympic Committees are organizing sports, cultural and educational activities.
Here in Simcoe-Grey, MPP Brian Saunderson was a member of the Canadian National Rowing Team and competed at two Olympic Games, and three World Championships, winning a silver medal in 1990 as a member of the Men’s Eight.
Amanda Rheaume in Concert
There were many ways to celebrate National Indigenous People’s Day throughout Simcoe-Grey. In Collingwood, the day brought with it an evening, free, outdoor concert featuring Juno nominee Amanda Rheaume, at the Shipyards Amphitheatre.
Born and raised in Ottawa, Rheaume is a Citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario with Objiwe/Anishinaabe ancestors from Lac Seul, Ontario. She is the granddaughter of Eugène Rhéaume, one of Canada’s first Métis Members of Parliament. Her music is indeed from the heart, and the land, and was enjoyed by everyone in attendance on a warm summer night at Collingwood’s waterfront.
Rheaume has released 5 full-length albums over a period of 15 years. Her release in 2013, Keep a Fire, was nominated for a JUNO Award and won a Canadian Folk Music Award for Indigenous Songwriter of the Year.
I have introduced a new feature to provide Simcoe-Grey residents with accurate, in-depth information on key issues in our riding and across the province.
My new LEAD STORY section will continue to grow and will feature many topics that will include comments from provincial officials, educators, business executives and workers. My objective is to fill in the cracks to answer any questions you may have relating to issues of the day.
This new section of my web site will go along nicely with my existing NEWS, VIDEO, 60 SECOND HEADLINES, NEWSLETTERS and PODCAST categories as I continue to make every attempt to keep the lines of communication wide-open, because there is always something of importance to talk about here in Simcoe-Grey.
Ontario Building New Child Care Centre Addition to St. Paul’s Catholic School in Alliston
Province’s investment in innovative and modern learning spaces will ensure students have
high quality education in a safe and healthy environment
As part of Ontario’s ongoing efforts to build and improve local schools, the province has provided the Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board with approval to issue the tender for the new addition at St. Paul’s Catholic School to create more child care spaces. This is supported by an investment of $3.3 million.
The Government of Ontario has announced more than $27.6 billion in education funding for the 2023-24 school year, the highest investment in public education in Ontario’s history. Investing in the province’s schools is an integral part of the government’s plan to address the shortage of skilled labour and help prepare our young people for the jobs of the future.
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A Big Fundraising Day & Special Funding Announcement for Hospice
It was another record setting day for the annual Hike and Bike for Hospice in Collingwood on Sunday May 28th. Perfect sunny weather greeted participants as they hiked and biked along Collingwood streets and trails. As everyone was leaving after lunch it was announced over $188,500. was raised this year. Margo Brandreth was the top fundraiser, at $22,340.
“The work of Hospice Georgian Triangle is made possible by donors like yourselves and funding providers. I am delighted to announce that we are joined by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) today who will present Hospice Georgian Triangle with a cheque for $116,900” said Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson.
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Legislative Page Solomon Kogan
I am happy introduce Legislative Page Solomon Kogan from Thornton, proudly representing Simcoe-Grey!
About the Page Program:
Each year approximately 150 young students from across Ontario are selected to participate in Ontario’s Legislative Page Program. This unique educational program for Ontario students provides an opportunity to experience the provincial legislature in action and forge new lifelong friendships with peers from all over the province!
The program is designed for outgoing, high-achieving, community-involved students who have demonstrated responsibility and leadership. Legislative Pages meet key parliamentary and political figures, and learn first-hand about Ontario’s Parliament and the legislative process.
Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson discusses Bill 102, Strengthening Safety and Modernizing Justice Act, 2023, 3rd reading, in the Ontario Legislature.
VIDEO: Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson discusses Bill 112, Hazel McCallion Act, An Act to provide for the dissolution of The Regional Municipality of Peel.
Simcoe-Grey talks about visiting schools in Stayner on “Take Your MPP to School Day”
stay tuned!
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