Updates from Across Simcoe-Grey
May 29, 2026
May 2026
Vimy Ridge Day Ceremony
I had the honour of attending the Vimy Ridge Day Ceremony at Canadian Forces Base Borden, marking the 109th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
Witnessing the restored First World War training trenches served as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unity that defined a generation of Canadians. More than 30,000 soldiers trained at Borden before serving overseas, and their legacy lives on in the freedoms we enjoy today and in the continued service of the Canadian Armed Forces.
Thank you to Base Commander Colonel Melissa Ramessar and the team at CFB Borden for hosting this meaningful commemoration.
Lest we forget.
$46,828.70 Emergency Preparedness Grant for Clearview
I was pleased to join Mayor Doug Measures and Fire Chief Scott Davison to announce that the Ontario government is investing up to $46,828.70 through the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant program to help strengthen emergency readiness in Clearview Township.
This funding will support emergency shelter supplies, backup power resources, and improved evacuation response equipment during severe weather events and prolonged power outages.
Hockey for Stevenson MemorialHospital Foundation
The inaugural Hat Trick for SMHF charity hockey game in Alliston was an incredible display of community spirit in support of the Stevenson Memorial Hospital Foundation.
Mayors Richard Norcross, Sandie Macdonald, and Scott Anderson joined OPP, firefighters, police officers, municipal staff, hospital staff, and local youth for a fun and energetic event that brought the community together both on and off the ice.
The exciting 11–10 overtime game helped raise more than $20,000 in support of the “Because of YOU” $80 million campaign. With matching support from The Morningview Foundation’s “Every Dollar Counts” initiative, the total contribution will grow to $40,000.
Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and helped make this inaugural event such a tremendous success.
Ontario’s Legislative Page Program
It was a pleasure to welcome David Stone, along with his grandparents John and Barbara, to Queen’s Park this week.
David, from Simcoe-Grey, participated in Ontario’s Legislative Page Program, an incredible opportunity for young leaders from across the province to gain firsthand experience in the Legislature and learn more about Ontario’s parliamentary system. The program recognizes outstanding students who demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and a strong commitment to their communities. Congratulations to David on this achievement.
Ontario Creates: Global Market Development Fund – Film & Television
It was great to catch-up with Teza Lawrence and congratulate the team at Amaze Film + Television Inc. on receiving support through the Ontario Creates Global Market Development Fund for Film and Television.
This investment will help support international growth opportunities, strengthen industry partnerships, and showcase Ontario-made content on the global stage while continuing to create jobs and opportunities here at home.
Across Simcoe-Grey and Ontario, our government is taking action on priorities that matter to our communities. Here are a few recent updates:
Improving Transportation
Our government introduced the Building Homes and Improving Transportation Infrastructure Act to reduce gridlock and keep people moving across the province.
The proposed legislation and accompanying measures will open up HOV lanes to more drivers and expand the One Fare program to make travel between municipalities easier and more affordable. Learn More
Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure
We’re investing an additional $300 million in the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund to revitalize local sports centres, create new jobs and support the next generation of Ontario athletes. Learn More
Supporting K-12 Teachers
Communities across Ontario need more highly skilled K-12 teachers to prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow.
That’s why we’re delivering on our plan to protect Ontario by lowering costs and streamlining training to build a robust workforce of teachers for Ontario classrooms. Learn More
Protecting Ontario’s Food Supply
We’re taking action to protect Ontario’s food supply and support the farmers and workers who keep food on our tables. The Protecting Ontario’s Food Independence Act, 2026 will cut red tape, support Ontario-made food and help unlock new economic opportunities in northern Ontario. Learn More
Reasons to Celebrate!
Congratulations to MNP LLP on celebrating 10 years in Collingwood. Thank you to partners Darrin Smith and Jody Karan for their leadership and ongoing commitment to excellence.
Remarkable Achievement :Celebrating Michaela
It was a pleasure to welcome Canadian Paralympic Team Bronze Medalist Michaela Gosselin and her family to Queen’s Park. Michaela’s achievements on the world stage are a tremendous source of pride for our community. Her determination, perseverance, and positive spirit continue to inspire athletes and residents across Simcoe-Grey.
Provincial Recognition: Mayor Richard Norcross
Congratulations to Richard Norcross on receiving the Province of Ontario’s Long Service Award, recognizing 25 years of dedicated service in municipal government. Thank you for your continued leadership and dedication to public service, and congratulations on this remarkable milestone.
Celebrating a Milestone: 30 Years of Dialysis in Alliston
Congratulations to Stevenson Memorial Hospital on celebrating 30 years of its Dialysis Program.
As a satellite of Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre’s Regional Renal Program, this partnership continues to ensure patients can access vital care closer to home. Thank you to the staff, leadership, and partners who have made this program such an important part of care in Simcoe-Grey
OHL Recognition: Most Gentlemanly Player
Congratulations to Collingwood Blues Captain Will Hughes on being named the Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Most Gentlemanly Player for the 2025–26 season. Will leads by example every time he steps on the ice, setting a standard of integrity and sportsmanship that brings pride to his team and to our entire community.
Dedicated Service: Collingwood Blues
Congratulations to Richard Judges on an incredible milestone, 800 games as equipment manager for the Collingwood Blues. Richard’s contribution over the years has been nothing short of exceptional. Since 1993, his commitment to ensuring players are prepared, focused, and ready to compete has been a constant through some of the Blues’ greatest achievements, including two provincial championships and a national title.
Provincial Recognition: Queen Elizabeth II Medal
Congratulations to Carole Madsen from Simcoe-Grey who has been honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship. Thank you for your dedication, leadership and service to our community.
Outstanding Achievement: The Blue Mountains Public Library
Congratulations to Alessia Farris, Curator with the The Blue Mountains Public Library, on receiving the 2026 Ontario Library Association Archival and Preservation Award.
As part of the team at the Craigleith Heritage Depot, Alessia has demonstrated outstanding dedication to preserving and sharing the rich history of the Town of The Blue Mountains. Congratulations, Alessia, and thank you for your commitment to preserving our local heritage.
Expansion unveiled: Alliston and District Humane Society
Congratulations to the team at the Alliston and District Humane Society on the official unveiling of their facility expansion in Everett.
I had the pleasure of meeting 9-year-old Liv Zaple, whose initiative and fundraising efforts have raised $5,000 in support of the Humane Society. An inspiring example of community spirit in action.
Grand Re-opening: Jerk It Up
Congratulations to Ray Ellis on the
re-opening of Jerkitup Wasaga in Wasaga Beach. This local favourite offers authentic Jamaican cuisine, including jerk chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and more