For Travis Shilling, acclaimed Ojibwe artist, and Naomi Woodman, professional photographer, art is not a subject, but a way of understanding who we are. As founders of the Otter Art Club, this belief forms the basis of the community initiative they created in 2018. “The whole idea is to give youth the opportunity to explore…
Orillia and Lake Country has always been a hidden Ontario gem— a warm, inviting place with small-town charm and a gorgeous natural landscape that begs to be discovered and enjoyed. And while some still see it as a hidden gem, this may be a misconception; tourism statistics show it’s one of the most popular vacation…
As the province continues to respond to the fourth wave of the pandemic driven by the highly transmissible Delta variant, the government is further protecting Ontarians through continued actions that encourage every eligible person to get vaccinated and help stop the spread of COVID-19. Today the government released the regulations and guidance for businesses and organizations to support them…
Mike Mather had a successful career in the automotive service industry, but something was missing. He really wanted to make a difference in peoples lives, and feel the satisfaction that comes from doing something you believe in. “I’ve been fortunate enough to recognize that no matter your chosen occupation, it really is all about people.…
Many businesses have been affected by the global pandemic over the past couple of years, but especially those that are in the business of hosting or providing venues for “large gatherings,” such as weddings. The cancellation and postponement of wedding celebrations has been a huge disappointment, not only to couples planning to celebrate their marriage,…
The Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF) provides assistance to help create jobs and position local economies for long-term growth. Valued at $700 million nationally over three years, JGF is being delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to help job creators to future-proof, build resiliency and prepare for growth by adopting clean technology, increasing diversity,…
The Tourism Relief Fund supports tourism businesses and organizations to adapt their operations to meet public health requirements while investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth. With a budget of $500 million over two years, including $50 million specifically dedicated to Indigenous tourism initiatives, this Fund will position Canada to be a…
Kelsey Beesley has recently joined an exciting group of young entrepreneurs who are adding to the character and energy of Orillia’s downtown. Beesley’s new shop, My Moon Collective, joins a growing collection of cafes, restaurants and specialty shops that have opened recently by a new generation of business leaders. Beesley describes her shop, located at…
The Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF) aims to help communities across Canada build and improve community infrastructure projects so they can rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a national investment of $500 million over two years, the Fund will support not-for-profit organizations, municipalities and other community groups, as well as Indigenous communities…
Applications are now open for WSIB’s 2021 awards Small business owners and operators work hard to keep their employees healthy and safe – WSIB understands that, and that’s why they give out their Small Business Health and Safety Leadership Awards. Each year they recognize the health and safety achievements of independently owned and operated businesses…
