John Edwards
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Articles by John Edwards
No skis? No problem. Here’s how you can enjoy the 85th winter season Ontario’s Blue Mountain Resort off the slopes Original
For 84 years, millions of Ontarians have made Blue Mountain Resort their preferred destination for skiing and snowboarding. And with winter around the corner, the largest ski resort in the province is ready for season 85. The official start of the season is Dec. 10. However, if you’re not a skier or a snowboarder, you won’t be left out in the cold as Blue Mountain has a host of activities to check out this winter.
Barrie resident facing child exploitation charges — Here’s the latest police news from across Simcoe County
A Caledon man is facing charges in connection with an armed robbery in Barrie earlier this month. At 10:20 p.m. Oct. 14, a masked man entered a fast-food restaurant allegedly armed with a “large cleaver-style knife” and demanded money from the cash register. Barrie police said the two employees complied and the suspect emptied the register drawer before leaving the restaurant. On Oct.
Neighbour launches GoFundMe campaign for family of Orillia woman she called an ‘earth angel’
Donna Graham was hit by a car in Orillia on Oct. 12. She died from her injuries two days later. She was 68. Her neighbour, Allana May, said Graham was walking to check on a homeless woman she had befriended to make sure she had food for Thanksgiving, when she was struck by an SUV in the area of Highway 12 and Monarch Drive. “That just goes to show you know her heart,” May said. May has organized a GoFundMe campaign for Graham’s family with a goal of $10,000.
Five minutes to make a difference: I voted in the Collingwood election and here’s why you should too
This morning I voted. It took me less than five minutes. I joined the more than 4,564 people (17.6 per cent) as of press time of eligible voters who have cast a ballot in Collingwood so far. I made my choice for who I felt would be best to lead our community for the next four years. And while I won’t tell you who I voted for, I will tell you why you should vote. I understand there’s a lot of people who are disillusioned with their politicians, and politics at all levels.
Halloween season is in full swing, here are 10 spooktacular events to celebrate in Simcoe County
With Halloween just around the corner, there’s a host of ways to celebrate the spooky season. Here are 10 to check out. Fright Fest Date Oct. 24 Time 3-9 p.m. Cost Free Description: Family Fright Fest is Barrie’s annual Halloween celebration. In its sixth year, the event features a haunted house, busker performances, inflatables, crafts and the ever-popular costume contest. Families can also explore the vendor market, enjoy tasty treats and listen to a haunted story around the fire.
Lights, camera, Barrie: Here are 5 must-watch movies to catch at the 29th annual film festival this weekend
Calling all film buffs in Barrie. The 29th annual Barrie Film Festival continues this weekend. All screenings take place at Galaxy Cinemas on Commerce Park Drive. The event showcases a variety of films from Canada and around the world. Here are five films to check out. ‘Fjord’ Date Oct.
Innisfil’s new Cascades Casino off Hwy. 400 will be four times the size of the existing facility with more slot machines
The new Cascades Casino Innisfil is under construction along Hwy. 400 and will be bigger than the current location — the former Georgian Downs. Here’s what you need to know: Why are they building a new casino in Innisfil? The construction of a new casino in Innisfil aligns with the expiring lease at the current Gateway Casino Innisfil. Gateway, a British Columbia-based company, also operates Casino Rama and the Playtime Casino in Wasaga Beach.
Innisfil’s new Cascades Casino off Hwy. 400 will be four times the size of the existing facility with more slot machines
The new Cascades Casino Innisfil is under construction along Hwy. 400 and will be bigger than the current location — the former Georgian Downs. Here’s what you need to know: Why are they building a new casino in Innisfil? The construction of a new casino in Innisfil aligns with the expiring lease at the current Gateway Casino Innisfil. Gateway, a British Columbia-based company, also operates Casino Rama and the Playtime Casino in Wasaga Beach.
Innisfil’s new Cascades Casino off Hwy. 400 will be four times the size of the existing facility with more slot machines
The new Cascades Casino Innisfil is under construction along Hwy. 400 and will be bigger than the current location — the former Georgian Downs. Here’s what you need to know: Why are they building a new casino in Innisfil? The construction of a new casino in Innisfil aligns with the expiring lease at the current Gateway Casino Innisfil. Gateway, a British Columbia-based company, also operates Casino Rama and the Playtime Casino in Wasaga Beach.
This former Toys ‘R’ Us in Barrie is currently a Spirit Halloween store, but the building is for sale for $17M
A former Toys “R” Us store in Barrie is still on the market. The property at 555 Bayfield St. in Barrie was home to a former Toys “R” Us store. It’s currently the site of Spirit Halloween, a retailer that sells Halloween merchandise for several months before Oct. 31. Spirit Halloween is open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Sunday. While the building is currently in use it’s also listed for sale on Realtor.ca for $17.82 million.
Want to be your own boss in Barrie? The Sunset Grill restaurant at Georgian Mall is for sale for $529,900
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur in Barrie? This could be an opportunity for you. Here’s what you need to know Sunset Grill was founded as an all-day breakfast restaurant in Toronto in 1985. Since then, the restaurant chain has expanded to more than 100 locations including 94 in Ontario. There are currently two locations in Barrie. The one at the Georgian Mall (509 Bayfield St) is currently listed for sale on Realtor.ca for $529,900. The restaurant is 2,200 square feet.
Arson charge in Wasaga Beach fire, Barrie man charged in child exploitation investigation: Here’s the latest police news in Simcoe County
On Oct. 13, Huronia West OPP charged a suspect in connection with a fire in Wasaga Beach that occurred earlier this year. On March 9, shortly before midnight, emergency crews responded to a structure fire at a motel on Mosley Street in Wasaga Beach. All occupants were able to safely evacuate, and no injuries were reported. Police charged a 58-year-old woman from Wasaga Beach with arson and failure to comply with an undertaking.
Own a piece of historic downtown Collingwood — this century-old mixed-use building is listed for $1.85 million
Downtown Collingwood is one of the more active downtown cores in the province. And you could have an opportunity to own a piece of it. Just the facts 202-204-206 Hurontario St. is a building located between Third and Fourth streets in Collingwood. The century-old, red-brick building is currently listed for sale on realtor.ca for $1.85 million. The mixed-used building is 4,728 square feet. It’s home to a 2,778-square-foot restaurant, Fish and Sips, on the ground floor.
Walk with the witches, meet Maple Leafs legend Darryl Sittler and check out Pet Palooza: Here are 3 things to do in Simcoe County this weekend
Looking for something to do this weekend in Simcoe County? Here are three events to check out. Witches Walk Date: Oct. 16 Time: 4-9 p.m. Description: The witches return to Coldwater, so grab your hat and broom and get into the Halloween spirit. Enjoy live music, dancing, food, artisan vendors and more. The event is organized by the Downtown BIA. Meet Darryl Sittler Date: Oct.
HER2; p53 co-mutated cancers show increased histone acetylation and are sensitive to neratinib plus trastuzumab deruxtecan
Abstract In metastatic breast cancer, HER2-activating mutations often co-occur with TP53 mutations, a combination linked to poor response to neratinib and worse prognosis. To model this clinical challenge, we bred HER2V777L transgenic mice with two TP53 mutant alleles: TP53R172H (the murine homolog of human TP53 R175H) and TP53fl/fl, which mimics p53 truncations common in human tumors. TP53 mutations accelerated tumor development and reduced survival in HER2-mutant mice.
The Collingwood Hospital Foundation surpasses $90 million fundraising milestone, you can help keep the momentum going this holiday season
As the holiday season approaches, the foundation hopes to keep the momentum going and people will continue to give. The foundation has set a fundraising goal of $150 million, which includes the local portion of the capital costs and all furniture associated with the new hospital. “The fundraising for this has quietly been going on for at least 10 years,” said Sandra Taylor, president and CEO of the foundation.
This downtown Barrie restaurant is still open but its landlord is in receivership and is selling the property for $1.7 million
The land and building that’s home to a popular restaurant in downtown Barrie is currently for sale. Casa Mia restaurant, located at 88 Dunlop Street W., has been in business for 34 years, serving Greek and Italian Cuisine. However, on Oct. 6, the property was listed for sale on REALTOR.CA for $1.7 million. Casa Mia has a lease on the property until 2028 with options. The restaurant is still operating. “The restaurant is open. We are tenants of the property,” said Nick Liakos of Casa Mia.
Ontario’s SIU investigating after person dies in custody in Orillia
The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating a death while a person was in custody in Orillia. On Oct. 11, shortly after 6:45 p.m., Orillia Ontario Provincial Police officers were called to an incident where they arrested a person. While in custody, the person went into medical distress and was pronounced dead. The OPP notified the SIU, which began the investigation. As a result, the OPP will not to provide more information. A.M. Headlines Newsletter You may unsubscribe at any time.
What is a chimney cake? This bakeshop is bringing a classic Hungarian treat to downtown Collingwood
The first time Marcello Sperandeo and Bronwen Parry tried a chimney cake, it was love at first bite. “I was blown away,” Sperandeo said. The Creemore couple are the owners of the new Budapest Bakeshop, which is located at 197 Hurontario St. in Downtown Collingwood. What is a chimney cake? The company was founded by Anett and Todd Kane in Niagara-on-the-Lake with the goal of bringing the chimney cake, a classic Hungarian treat, to Canada.
Ontario’s Blue Mountain isn’t just a winter destination — Here’s why fall may be its best-kept secret Original
When people think Blue Mountain, they normally think winter. Matt McFarlane is a marketing specialist for the Blue Mountain Village Association and Explore Blue, a new destination marketing organization for the region. He said people travelling to see the changing leaves are becoming a reason for people to visit the region. How many hiking trails are in the Blue Mountain area?
Ontario’s Blue Mountain isn’t just a winter destination — Here’s why fall may be its best-kept secret
When people think Blue Mountain, they normally think winter. Matt McFarlane is a marketing specialist for the Blue Mountain Village Association and Explore Blue, a new destination marketing organization for the region. He said people travelling to see the changing leaves are becoming a reason for people to visit the region. How many hiking trails are in the Blue Mountain area?
Man charged in connection with double homicide in Barrie, fatal fire in Barrie not suspicious: Here’s the latest police news in Simcoe County
Shortly before 9 a.m. on Oct. 8, police arrested the man in the area of Collier and Owen Streets. In 2025, Barrie police arrested 52-year-old Robert Ladouceur, who faces several criminal charges in connection with the deaths of two men, 45-year-old William “Blake” Robinson and 41-year-old David Cheesequay. That case remains before the courts. Barrie fatal fire A fire that killed two men in Barrie on Oct. 2 was not suspicious, according to police.
‘It ended my marriage’: How one Wasaga Beach man got sober and built a community for others trying to quit drinking
Alcohol was consuming Dustin Jones’ life. “My drinking was getting out of control,” he said. “It became a daily need, and it was affecting the relationship with my kids. It ended my marriage. It affected my career development and just made me, a terrible person all around.” How did Dustin Jones start Sober Friends Canada? The Wasaga Beach resident has been sober for 16 months and more than a year ago started Sober Friends Canada in hopes of helping others abstain from alcohol.
Fall fair, studio tour, and Halloween frights highlight Simcoe County’s Thanksgiving weekend events
Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are three events to check out. Images Studio Tour Dates Oct. 9-12 Location Various Cost Free Description The 43rd annual Images Studio Tour is one of Ontario’s longest running. You will meet painters, potters, sculptors, photographers, wood turners, jewellers, and assorted mixed media artists, featuring a wide selection, with something for everyone.
Need a cup of flour for Thanksgiving dinner? Here’s what’s open and closed in Simcoe County on Oct. 12
Here’s a roundup of what’s open and closed on Thanksgiving Monday, Oct. 12, in Barrie and Simcoe County. Banks, government offices and libraries will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday. LCBO All LCBO Stores are closed on Thanksgiving Monday. The Beer Store Beer Stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday. Grocery Most Shoppers Drug Mart stores will be open. Most Wal Mart stores in Simcoe County will be open, check locations for hours. Farm Boy stores in Simcoe County will be open.
The Wasaga Beach restaurant that survived a recession, a pandemic and just won best in town
When Bob Bickmore opened Catch 22 Fresh Market Grill in 2004 his goal was simple, he wanted to offer something special to his community. After 22 years, a recession and pandemic, his goal remains the same and his customers are rewarding him for it. The house aged, AAA Canadian Ribeye Steak is a popular menu item. After opening the restaurant in Collingwood, Bickmore moved to Wasaga Beach in 2012.
Collingwood cutie looking to make it to the finals of Jessica Alba’s Baby of the Year competition — here’s how you can help
Ashton Carson, son of Stacy Albert and Cory Carson, is currently looking to advance to the finals of Baby of the Year. The contest is organized by actress Jessica Alba and her brand The Honest Company, which makes eco-friendly baby and household items. The winner of the contest receives $25,000, and will be included in a national magazine campaign in Variety. On Oct. 6, online votes count for double and would give Ashton a boost in the competition. The contest started Aug. 31.
Barrie cookie lovers line up to get a first taste at Crumbl as new store celebrates grand opening
If you have a sweet tooth, Barrie has a new place to satisfy it. Crumbl, a chain of dessert stores with 1,100 locations worldwide, opened its latest shop at 400 Bayfield St. on Oct. 2. Hamed Faizi, owner of the franchise, has always looked at Barrie as a place to open a business. Why Crumbl? “I have friends who have businesses here,” he said. “So, for whatever reason, I feel like Barrie was always a good place to open a business in terms of ...
Pet meds at Costco? Here’s what Wasaga Beach, Barrie and Orillia pet owners need to know
Did you know you can get pet medications at Costco? Earlier this year, the company started filling prescriptions for pets in Canada. Whether it’s a dog, cat, horse or any animal you take to the vet, you can get the drugs at the Costco pharmacy. In July, Andy Shen, known as Costco Andy, a popular social media personality who focuses on Costco news and products, said the program would be available across the country.
Winter is on the way in Barrie: When to book snow removal — and what it will cost you
With winter on its way, the time is now for many Barrie homeowners to make their snow removal plans for the coming season. Barrie averages about 168 centimetres of snowfall per season and last year, the city was one of the region’s hardest hit areas. This comes with a lot of questions, such as when do you sign up for a removal service and how much will you pay? Barrie Lawnmowing and Landscape services does snow removal in the city.
I’m putting a Wasaga Beach Costco membership on my Christmas list and here are 5 things I’m excited about buying
From the day I started working at Simcoe.com 20 years ago, I’ve had people tell me there was going to be a Costco built in Southern Georgian Bay. Some people said it was coming next week, some said next year, but my response was the same as when asked about the Toronto Maple Leafs winning the Stanley Cup: I’ll believe it when I see it. Well, my beloved Leafs haven’t sipped from Lord Stanley’s mug, but next month a new Costco opens in Wasaga Beach.
Cocaine and crack seized in Orillia, Barrie police warn about counterfeit cash: Here’s the latest police news from across Simcoe County
An Orillia man is facing criminal charges following a recent drug investigation. In the summer, the Orillia OPP started a drug trafficking investigation at a home on Albert Street near Barrie Road. On Sept. 25, officers searched a home and seized cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, hydromorphone tablets, oxycodone tablets, more than $10,000 in cash, 29 grams of gold bars and weapons.
Collingwood mayor and deputy mayor candidates square off on debt, traffic and growth at chamber forum
On Sept. 30, Collingwood voters had a chance to hear from their next mayor and deputy mayor. The Collingwood Chamber of Commerce hosted a candidates meeting at the Royal Canadian Legion. Mayoral candidates Yvonne Hamlin (incumbent), Kathy Jeffery, Norman Sandberg and Jon Hillis, alongside deputy mayor candidates Chris Potts and Deb Doherty, answered questions from the public and laid out their ideas for the next four years.
Oh my gourd: Here are 5 Simcoe County pumpkin patches to check out this fall
Fall is here and for many in Simcoe County that means it’s time to visit the pumpkin patch. There are a host of places in the region, which will give you the opportunity to pick that perfect pumpkin. Here are five places you should check out: Barrie Hill Farms Description: Pick-your-own pumpkins at this second generation family farm. Every Saturday and Sunday in September and October, enjoy live music, plus local vendors from The Sunday Market.
Got the grandkids this weekend? Rodeo returns to Wasaga Beach and free pumpkin painting in Barrie
Looking for some fun this weekend in Simcoe County? Mayor’s Charity Rodeo Date(s) Oct. 3-4 Location 1888 Klondike Park Rd. Description Mayor’s Charity RAM Rodeo and Hootenanny Fall Festival returns for two action-packed days in Wasaga Beach. Cheer on cowboys and cowgirls and watch pole bending, barrel racing, trick roping, bull riding and more. The event also features live entertainment, vendors and food truck. Creemore Arts Festival Date(s) Oct.
Royal drop zone: Prince Harry skydives in Innisfil to keep promise to 102-year-old veteran
It’s a bird, it’s a plane … it’s Prince Harry. Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, was seen high above Simcoe County on Sept. 25 as he went skydiving at Skydive Toronto in Innisfil. More than a year ago, the prince was visiting Sunnybrook Hospital and made a promise to Ed Marshall, a 102-year-old veteran of the Second World War. Marshall, a trained paratrooper, said he went skydiving for his 100th birthday and the prince promised he’d join him for a jump.
WHAT’S GOING ON HERE? Popular Toronto-based burger joint Rudy set to open a new location in Collingwood
A Toronto-based burger chain will soon be opening its second location in Simcoe County. Rudy is a burger joint that was founded in 2016 in Toronto’s Little Italy by Luke McCann and Chris Simpson. They sell hamburgers, fries and shakes, plus poutine, brownies and a pickle-brined fried chicken sandwich called the Valentino. Their signature is a double cheeseburger called the Rude Dude. Their burgers are made from a special beef blend they grind in house, according to the website.
Behind the scenes at the Barrie Food Bank: I spent time helping alongside the engine that powers this valuable community organization
Before the doors open at the Barrie Food Bank, a group of volunteers are steadily working to get the shelves stocked and the food sorted. For a few hours on Sept. 23, I was helping out. I got a behind-the-scenes look at the food bank and front-row seat to the dedication of the volunteers. The engine that powers the food bank There are more than 175 people who volunteer for the organization and Karen Shuh said without them, they wouldn’t be able to do the work that they do.
Fatal crash near Orillia, crypto scam in Barrie: Here’s the latest police news from across Simcoe County
A Burlington man is dead after a crash in Severn Township on Sept. 20. At about 1:30 a.m., police and emergency services were called to a single vehicle crash on Town Line near Upper Big Chute Road. The driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation is ongoing. Orillia OPP is asking anyone with dashcam footage of the incident please contact 1-888-310-1122. Assault in Barrie Barrie police is looking for the public’s help in finding suspects involved in a recent assault.
‘Young bull moose may travel significant distances’: Moose spotted in Midland and Collingwood
There were a pair of moose sightings in Simcoe County. On Sept. 22, a bull moose, nicknamed Elliot by the OPP, was found wandering around Collingwood. The moose was tranquilized and transported to a more suitable habitat in northern Simcoe County. On Sept. 24, a moose was seen walking downtown Midland and around the Midland Harbour. According to the Town of Midland, the moose was also tranquilized and transported.
Fair season is here in Collingwood and Wasaga Beach: Here are 10 things you should check out at the 169th Great Northern Exhibition
It’s fair season in South Georgian Bay. The 169th Great Northern Exhibition takes place from Sept. 25-28 at 2220 Fairgrounds Rd. in Clearview Township, on the border between Collingwood and Wasaga Beach. Admission Daily tickets: Adults (13+) $15, Youth (6-12) $5, Children (5 and under) free. Three-day pass: $35 (includes Friday, Saturday and Sunday) Two-day pass: $25 (includes Saturday and Sunday) Here are 10 things to check out at this year’s GNE The midway starts at 4 p.m. on Sept.
Doors Open Barrie returns this weekend with free tours and Culture Days activities
Doors will be open in Barrie this weekend. Doors Open Ontario is back for another year and will give residents and visitors an opportunity to tour buildings in Barrie. The event is also paired with Culture Days, which offers a variety of activities. Here’s what you need to know Date Sept. 26 Location Various Cost Free Description Each year, communities across Ontario dedicate a day for local sites of interest to be opened to the public for free tours.
Looking for luxury? This 10-bedroom, 11-bathroom estate on Kempenfelt Bay in Innisfil is currently for sale for nearly $14 million
Looking for luxury, privacy and waterfront living? This could be your dream home. Here’s what you need to know 1562 Ladywood Way is located near Big Bay Point and 20 Sideroad in Innisfil. The property is one of the exclusive waterfront compounds on the shore of Kempenfelt Bay. The estate offers 223 feet of privately held shoreline. It is currently listed for sale on realtor.ca for $13.9 million.
Want to own an Island on Lake Simcoe? This 11-acre property near Orillia could be yours for $9.5 million
Have you ever wanted to own an island? If so, there’s a property listed for sale near Orillia that could be a family legacy or an investment. Here’s what you need to know Goffatt Island is located in Ramara Township. The 11-acre property is one of the largest islands on Lake Simcoe. It’s currently listed for sale on REALTOR.CA for $9.5 million.
Barrie real estate broker says Wasaga Beach is the most attractive market in Simcoe County
A Barrie real estate broker said the Simcoe County real estate market is providing more options for buyers these days. “Right now, we’re seeing a surplus of inventory available for the most part, although some entry level price points are more in a balanced type of market. For the most part, most price points are in a buyer’s type market,” said Jeff Barr, broker of record for the Faris Team Real Estate Brokerage. “So that allows the buyers to have more options and more selection.
Collingwood-based Biion Shoes that had a deal with Disney has returned under a new name
Collingwood-based Biion shoes was once on top of the world. The company was selling products in more than 40 countries and had inked deals with Disney and Warner Brothers. But in 2023, the company appeared to stop operating, leaving customers and others to question its future. However, an email last week said Biion is back under a different name, Civilion Ltd. And previously in June, the company sent an email to customers offering an explanation of what had happened. “You wore the shoes.
‘We put love into it’: Downtown Barrie’s Dunlop Street Diner named the city’s best brunch spot
“We put some love into it. I think that’s where you see the difference and I think people recognize that,” said owner Steve Ricalis. The diner was recently received the diamond award for best brunch spot in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Wasaga Beach resident killed in crash, Barrie police issue scam warning: Here’s the latest police news from across Simcoe County
A Wasaga Beach resident was recently killed in a crash in Springwater Township. On Sept. 15, at 6:40 a.m., emergency crews were called to a two-vehicle collision involving a dump truck and a car at Highway 26 near Strongville Road. The driver of the car, a 28-year-old from Wasaga Beach, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the dump truck suffered minor injuries and was transported to hospital.
Looking for free stuff in Barrie? City holding 2 events to keep useful items out of the landfill
There’s an old saying “one person’s junk is another person’s treasure.” The City of Barrie is encouraging residents to adopt this mantra as it aims to keep items out of the landfill. The city will be holding two events this month designed to extend the life of items you may no longer need. On Sept. 19, the city is holding Curbside Giveaway Day. Residents are asked to put items that are in good condition that can still be used, at the curb with a FREE sign on them.
Where you can commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Barrie and Simcoe County: Sunrise ceremonies and sacred fires
Residents in Barrie, Orillia, Midland, Collingwood and Wasaga Beach will have opportunities to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Also known as Orange Shirt Day, citizens honour the survivors of the residential school system in Canada. A day of reflection and learning, there are a host of events happening across Simcoe County.
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