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Articles by Jayne Pritchard
Local company celebrating anniversary with big charity party
A Barrie-based company has big plans to celebrate a significant anniversary next month while giving back at the same time. The Lice Squad will be marking its 20th anniversary with a major celebration featuring retro music, classic cars and skydiving. While promising fun for all, it will also double as a charity fundraiser for two Simcoe County women's shelters.
Turtle Bootcamp offers students interested in conservation training
The Scales Nature Park in Oro-Medonte is offering a two-week Turtle Bootcamp for students interested in pursuing a career in conservation. The training program is part of a project to teach participants how to find and capture turtles and collect data on the reptiles for population monitoring and various research studies.
CTV's Jayne Pritchard announces retirement after nearly 40 years Original
I never imagined I would have such a long career in television when I dropped off a resume at CKVR in April of 1982. I was just hoping for a position in promotions or marketing to continue with a career path I had started at Fabergé. While at the fragrance and toiletries company, I worked with celebrities who were under contract to Fabergé, like Cary Grant, Farrah Fawcett, Joe Namath and Margaux Hemingway.
World-class video game player is a teen from Angus, Ont.
Spending time playing video games in his basement studio could become a lucrative career for a 17-year-old from Angus, Ont. Avery Irvine has been rated in the top 1,000 out of 840,000 people worldwide who play the video game 'Valorant.' Roughly 15 million people play that particular video game each month. Last fall, the Angus teen finished in the top five in an international competition hosted by the Luminosity Academy, one of the top-rated esports organizations in North America.
Barrie art centre loans original pieces to art lovers with exchange program
The MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie has allowed people to borrow art for more than 20 years through a program that helps raise money for exhibits and programming. The Benefactor Art Exchange loans art lovers an original piece for one year for one dollar a day. "Right now, I think we're up to just under 100 pieces, and they're anything from acrylic to watercolour paintings. From photography to textile and printmaking.
Terry Fox Run organizers encourage participants to register for Barrie campaign
The Terry Fox Run is still months away, but those behind the campaign in Barrie want participants to consider signing up now. The campaign is $152,000 short of reaching its $3 million goal set when the Barrie run started in 1981. Marilyn Nigro, the Barrie Terry Fox Run Committee chairperson, said a small donation could go a long way.
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Grace Branning of Barrie celebrates her 106th birthday
A Barrie woman is celebrating her 106th birthday on Wednesday. Grace Branning has five living generations of her family, a daughter, a granddaughter, two great-granddaughters, and two great-great-grandchildren. She survived two husbands, marrying her first in 1947 and her second in 1970. She was married to each for 26 years. Grace Branning turns 106 on March 30, 2022. (Supplied) Born in 1916, Mrs.
A Barrie artist uses a symbol of hope to help the people of Ukraine
Barrie - The war in Ukraine has compelled a Barrie artist to use her creativity to help those dealing with unimaginable conditions in Ukraine. Linda Laforge, a portrait and caricature artist, recently created a digital painting of a sunflower, which is a symbol of loyalty and adoration.
Feature your furry family member while supporting Hospice Muskoka
Pet owners have the opportunity to showcase their furry family members while supporting a good cause. Hospice Muskoka is offering a 'Joy of Pets Photo Calendar Contest' to showcase the bond you and your pet share. All of the proceeds go towards Hospice Muskoka, a not-for-profit organization that supports those requiring bereavement or end-of-life care. To be featured on the 2023 calendar, send in a photo of your pet.
Feature your furry family member in a calendar for a good cause
Pet owners have the opportunity to showcase their furry family members while supporting a good cause. Hospice Muskoka is offering a 'Joy of Pets Photo Calendar Contest' to showcase the bond you and your pet share. All of the proceeds go towards Hospice Muskoka, a not-for-profit organization that supports those requiring bereavement or end-of-life care. To be featured on the 2023 calendar, send in a photo of your pet.
Simcoe County organization supports and uplifts artists of colour
A grassroots organization in Simcoe County is uplifting artists of colour in the community. UPlift Black, made up of more than 25 members, is a group of painters, jewelry makers, musicians, actors that highlight other artists. "We are here to literally uplift Black, Indigenous and also queer and other marginalized people in the Muskoka and Simcoe County area," says Dawn Cain, Uplift Black Artists Collective Chair.
Food bank for pets helping those in need in Simcoe County
A group of volunteers in Simcoe County dedicates much of their time to ensuring no animal in the area goes hungry. The South Simcoe Pet Food Bank started five years ago to provide support to anyone struggling to care for their furry friends properly. The group behind it decided to use their previous experience working in animal rescues for the cause at hand.
Incentive offered to female students interested in skilled trades
A financial incentive is being offered to get more people into the trades, especially women. Haley Kramer received a $1,000 bursary in 2021 to help her with her apprenticeship program with Division 15 Plumbing and Mechanical. Kramer is in her third year of the five-year program. "I have grown so much as a person and as a woman. I have definitely become stronger, a lot more independent, more capable.
Virtual event looks to raise $60,000 for at-risk youth in Simcoe County
Communities across Canada will be bundling up for the 'Coldest Night of the Year.' In Barrie, Youth Haven is hosting its eighth annual walk in support of at-risk youth. As the Barrie event will be virtual this year, participants can choose to do a two or five-kilometre walk throughout February. "What we do is we take them in, we provide them with care, with hope, with everything that they need to basically help turn their lives around," says Lucy Gowers, executive director for Youth Haven.
Town of Innisfil cooks up new ways to enjoy healthy eating at home
The Town of Innisfil is offering a new way for families to enjoy cooking together at home. Participants have the opportunity to pick up meal kits that are geared to families, seniors and children. Meal kits contain a recipe and all the ingredients for families to cook the meal at home successfully. Depending on the program, some additional activities may be included with the purchase of a meal kit, including games or pre-recorded YouTube demonstrations.
Collingwood hockey team hosts two backyard rink contests
The recent drop in cold temperatures is welcome news for those looking to build an outdoor skating rink. If you live in the Collingwood area, you might win a prize for your backyard set-up. For the second year in a row, the Collingwood Blues Junior 'A' hockey team is hosting its 'Backyard Rink Contest.' This year, there are two contests. Those with an existing rink can enter to win prizes, while those without can enter for a chance to win one.
Ryan's Hope working to keep Barrie's vulnerable population warm this winter
A Barrie organization, born out of tragedy, is taking on more initiatives to help the city's most vulnerable. Ryan's Hope was created by Barrie resident Christine Nayler and her husband in honour of their son, Ryan, who died of toxic drug poisoning. Since Ryan's passing in 2020, the organization has continued to raise awareness about homelessness, addiction and mental health. "With Ryan, he had a whole family supporting him, and he still couldn't make it," Nayler says.
Ramara Township encourages residents to build a snowman for twelfth annual 'Snowmanathon'
Residents in Ramara Township are encouraged to get outside and enjoy the snow this winter. Ramara Township has brought back its annual 'Snowmanathon,' for the twelfth year in a row, which encourages residents to build a snow creation. From a snowman to a snowdog, all are welcome. Residents are encouraged to snap a photo of their creation and email it into the Township's recreation department at recreation@ramara.ca before March 1. The winners will be announced on the Township's social media pages.
'Snowmanathon' comes to Ramara Township Original
Residents in Ramara Township are encouraged to get outside and enjoy the snow this winter. The Township has brought back its annual 'Snowmanathon,' for the 12th year in a row, which encourages residents to build a snow creation. From a snowman to a snowdog, all are welcome. Residents are encouraged to snap a photo of their creation and email it into the Township's recreation department at recreation@ramara.ca before March 1. The winners will be announced on the Township's social media pages.
Midland group sells cookbooks to help grandmothers in Africa
A group of volunteers in Midland have decided to create cookbooks for a good cause. In Grandmothers' Hands Huronia provides support for grandmothers in Africa who dedicate their time to help children orphaned by AIDS and HIV. With a number of fundraising efforts sidelined, the group decided to create cookbooks available for purchase. The funds go towards the Stephen Lewis Foundation.
Midland students organize a winter coat drive to help homeless population
Police and students are teaming up to help keep those most vulnerable warm this winter. Southern Georgian Bay OPP and Georgian Bay District Secondary School (GBDSS) students have teamed up for a winter coat drive for families. Students at the school put a call out to the community to donate gently used winter wear to give to those facing homelessness in Midland. "We saw a need in our community, and we wanted to fulfill that need," says Abby Goneau, co-president of student council at GBDSS.
Winter coat drive helps keep vulnerable community warm this winter
Police and students are teaming up to help keep those most vulnerable warm this winter. Southern Georgian Bay OPP and Georgian Bay District Secondary School (GBDSS) students have teamed up for a winter coat drive for families. Students at the school put a call out to the community to donate gently used winter wear to give to those facing homelessness in Midland. "We saw a need in our community, and we wanted to fulfill that need," says Abby Goneau, co-president of student council at GBDSS.
Fill a shoebox to help women facing homelessness in Simcoe County
A local organization is trying to ensure women affected by homelessness in Simcoe County are not forgotten during the holidays. For the past ten years, The Shoebox Project has been gifting 'Shoeboxes of Hope' to women affected by homelessness. The 'Shoeboxes of Hope' contain $50 worth of items that a woman may enjoy. Shannon Murree, organizer of The Shoebox Project, says these tokens of appreciation let women affected by homelessness know that they are not forgotten during the holidays.
Unique grocery-style food bank opens its doors in Midland
A unique food bank has opened in Midland to help feed those facing food insecurity. The Georgian Bay Food Network (GBFN) is a grocery-style food bank that offers people the chance to access their own foods based on their own needs. "Our main goal is to reduce the stigma associated with food insecurity and food banks," says Alexandra Hamelin, the Georgian Bay Food Network founder.
Fill a Purse for a Sister Campaign enters its final stretch
BARRIE, ONT. - A national campaign is again calling on the public's help to support women of any age in distress. The 'Fill a Purse for a Sister' campaign is entering its 7th year across the country, with various communities participating. 2021 will mark Barrie's fourth year, where a community lead has brought this initiative to the city. The goal is to collect gently used or new purses filled with various personal care items.
Touching tribute to young fallen veteran at Barrie Legion
BARRIE, ONT. - A new display at the Barrie Legion is paying tribute to a fallen veteran, ensuring his legacy lives on. Private Kevin McKay, born and raised in Horseshoe Valley, served in the war in Afghanistan in 2010. He lost his life on the final night of his tour of duty. His parents have recently donated some of his possessions to the Barrie Legion, where they are now part of a display to share his story. "Proud as heck but absolutely broken-hearted," says Beth McKay, Kevin's mother.
Barrie psychotherapist using music to help clients
BARRIE, ONT. - A Barrie woman is stressing the benefits that music can have in helping with anxiety and depression. Heidi Flynn is a registered psychotherapist and music therapist who has run 'Music Therapy Services of Simcoe County' for approximately 20 years. "Music therapy is when we use music to work on non-musical goals," Flynn tells CTV News. She says that it has even helped her brother, who in particular enjoys playing the drums.
OSPCA releases pins to commemorate animals who served during the war Original
BARRIE, ONT. - The Ontario SPCA has released commemorative pins to wear alongside your poppy this Remembrance Day. The Animals in War pins were initially released in 2017 to commemorate the wartime contributions of cats, dogs, horses and pigeons. This year, cats are the newest pin addition, who kept ships free of vermin and served as companions for soldiers far away from home. Animals played a crucial role during the war, serving as carriers for messages, artillery and weapons.
Clothing campaign hopes to keep kids warm this winter
BARRIE, ONT. - With cooler weather looming on the horizon, a Bradford campaign is making sure kids will stay warm this season. The 17th annual Coats for Kids campaign, which runs until the end of October, allows families to access free winter accessories for children. The campaign is organized by CONTACT Community Services, which runs the Clothes Line Thrift Store in Alliston. Jackie Curd from CONTACT Community Services pioneered the program.
Curbside candy campaign to help Simcoe County's homeless community
Barrie, Ont. - A curbside candy campaign aims to entice people to donate to the Uplifting Blessings charity in Orillia to help the homeless. The campaign is looking for drop-offs of various items, including pyjamas, men's deodorant, body wash, winter gloves, nail clippers, razors, hand-warmers, hoodies, and more. A young woman organized the drive in memory of her friend who passed away. She said he made it a point to help the less fortunate and encouraged her to do the same.
Donations needed for Christmas gift bags for isolated seniors
BARRIE, ONT. - The Senior Wish Association is trying to make sure local seniors have a gift to open on Christmas morning. Over the past decade, the Senior Wish Association has aimed to help seniors in the community who may feel forgotten during the holiday season. "We've had people literally cry when they've received these bags from us over the years," says Bonnie Neely, Senior Wish Association. "There are a lot of seniors out there who feel forgotten.
Radiothon to support cancer care close to home hits the airwaves Thursday
Barrie, Ont. - Plans are well underway for the Radio for Oncology Radiothon hosted by Bounce 92.3 in Owen Sound. "The goal is to keep quality cancer care close to home, and with things like Radiothons and raising funds, we're able to make improvements to the cancer wing and other parts of the hospital," said program director Don Vail. Amy McKinnon, Owen Sound Regional Hospital Foundation Chief Executive Officer, said community support is vital to the hospital's operations.
Career training to break the cycle of youth homelessness
Barrie, Ont. - The Home Depot Foundation launched a new initiative to break the cycle of youth homelessness called TradeWorx. An initial $1 million investment will create opportunities for career education and skilled trades training for 100 young Canadians who have experienced homelessness or employment challenges. TradeWorx has multiple partnerships and community organizations committed to helping give young people a chance at a meaningful career.
Charity golf tournament tees off in Thornton
Barrie, Ont. - Golfers teed off at the 8th annual Christmas Cheer Charity Golf Tournament at Tangle Creek Golf and Country Club in Thornton. Nearly 140 players hit the fairways on Tuesday to mark the launch of the fundraising season. Events like the golf tournament, which includes a silent auction, contribute to the annual goal of raising $250,000 to help make Christmas a little brighter for those in need.
Barrie Colts seek homes to house its players this season
BARRIE, ONT. -- As the Barrie Colts gear up to start a brand new season, many are looking for a home away from home this fall. With a vast majority of the players too young to live on their own, Billet Homes are a way to provide Colts players safe, temporary housing during the OHL season. "It's an extremely important program that every OHL team has. We're so fortunate here in Barrie to have outstanding billets," says Marty Williamson, Barrie Colts general manager.
Book launch to benefit the Women and Children's Shelter of Barrie
BARRIE, ONT. -- The Women and Children's Shelter of Barrie released a book about local women who escaped domestic abuse. The book, titled 'Shelter Me,' is a collection of stories about the lives of several women who fled their abusers, reclaimed their dignity and reconstructed their lives. "Shelter Me highlights the issue that we are facing right here in the city of Barrie.
Midland hospital aims to raise $450,000 for patient care through second virtual gala
BARRIE, ONT. -- Georgian Bay General Hospital in Midland is preparing to host its Power of Giving Virtual Gala with a big goal in mind. The hospital is looking to raise $450,000. This year's show will feature musical guests, an online auction and a virtual after party. Participants also can purchase a Georgian Bay Bag, which contains 20 items from local businesses. All of the proceeds will go towards Georgian Bay General's Impact Fund, dedicated to patient care.
Nature centre in Ramara named after Orillia naturalist
BARRIE, ONT. -- A 100-acre parcel of land that boasts a forest, meadows, orchards, ponds and wetlands has been named in honour of a popular Orillia naturalist. The Robert L. Bowles Nature Centre, located in the Township of Ramara, about 20 minutes east of Orillia, also has an organic nine-hole golf course. Orillia resident Bob Bowles is an award-winning environmental consultant, writer, educator and naturalist.
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin in Alliston
BARRIE, ONT. -- One of the most significant Canadian discoveries in medical history, insulin, happened 100 years ago in Alliston. One of the men behind the discovery, Sir Frederick Banting, was born and raised in the small town. Banting came up with the idea for insulin, saving countless lives around the world of those who have diabetes. The Alliston native teamed up with Prof.
Barrie 'Flags of Hope' campaign seeks to raise awareness and honour lives lost to overdose
BARRIE, ONT. -- A Barrie mother has created a "Flags of Hope" campaign to shine a spotlight on the ongoing drug crisis while honouring the lives lost. "We're making flags of hope in memory of those that we have lost due to toxic drugs, as well as to bring hope to those that are still struggling with substance use issues," says Christine Nayler, founder of the campaign. On August 31, known as "International Overdose Awareness Day," the flags will be carried to Barrie City Hall.
Motorcycle group on Canadian tour to raise PTSD awareness
BARRIE, ONT. -- Hundreds of motorcycle riders are taking part in a cross-Canada tour in support of veterans, soldiers, police officers and other first responders. The group called The Rolling Barrage is raising awareness and money for those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) because of the work they do to protect others. "We want to try and make sure that we can end the stigma that's associated with PTSD and make sure that they get the resources and the help that they need.
Charity provides back-to-school supplies to Simcoe County children in need
BARRIE, ONT. -- The new school year is around the corner, and for some families purchasing school supplies can be a financial burden. Glowing Hearts Charity is trying to ensure that those in need this Fall are not forgotten. Through a series of donors and sponsors, hundreds of students across Simcoe County will be receiving a backpack filled with quality items.
Golf tournament raising awareness Fore brain aneurysm research
BARRIE, ONT. -- Hitting the links on August 21 for the sixth annual BR Memorial Golf Tournament may or may not help you with your golf game, but it will help raise money for the Brain Aneurysm Foundation of Canada. Over the past six years, the tournament has raised over $15,000 for local charities, including MADD, the Barrie Food Bank, the Canadian Mental Health Association and All Sports for All People.
How one door can change the life of a young person in Orillia
The Home Depot Canada Foundation is running their summer Orange Door Project Campaign at over 120 local organizations until Sun., Aug. 1, 2021 (Courtesy: The Home Depot Canada Foundation) The Orange Door Campaign in support of the Orillia Youth Centre runs until Sun., Aug. 1, 2021. (Courtesy: Orillia Youth Centre)
Dogs ready for forever homes after 1,600 km road trip
BARRIE, ONT. -- After a 1,600 km road trip, four dogs from Northern Ontario will soon be ready for adoption through the Ontario SPCA Midland and District Animal Centre. The animals arrived in Midland on July 12 through the Second Chance Pet Network in Dryden. A total of seven dogs were brought in through the pet transfer initiative, and three of them will be adopted through the Ontario SPCA Sudbury and District Animal Centre.
Cycling to fight children's cancer
BARRIE, ONT. -- Al Muma is riding his bike and raising money to fight childhood cancer. The Bond Head, Ont., resident hopes people will support his participation in "The Great Cycle Challenge" organized through the Sick Kids Foundation. The pandemic caused the annual fundraiser to pivot, and for the second year, riders create their own routes and riding goals while raising donations. Muma, 67, is no stranger to health challenges.
The circus is coming to Alliston
NorthFIRE circus drive-in performances from August 1, 2020 at Stevenson Farms & Harvest Spa. (NorthFIRE circus/Submitted) NorthFIRE Circus is back for a second year putting on drive-in performances across the Region. (NorthFIRE Circus/Submitted)
Run4Youth and support mental health
BARRIE, ONT. -- The Rotary Club of Alliston has launched its latest fundraising event, the Run4Youth, South Simcoe. From now until the end of September, you can register alone or in a group to walk, run or bike any distance to raise pledges. Money raised will go towards youth mental health programs at New Path Youth & Family Services and Youth Haven. Youth Haven Director of Fund Development Louise Jones said, “The pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health of young people.
Bradford businessman offering free birthday messages with a twist
Free birthday ads created by Eye Candy Ads in Bradford. (Luke Simard/CTV) Eye Candy Ads is offering free birthday billboards for youth. (Luke Simard/CTV)
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