And for the second year in a row, she’ll be out at the parade spreading cheer with candy canes and hot chocolate.

Do you know someone who needs to be recognized for their holiday spirit? Let us know here:

Melissa goes above and beyond all year long and the Christmas season is no exception. From handmade crafts to meaningful activities, and even personalized advent calendars for clients to open throughout December, her thoughtfulness shines in everything she does.

Her leadership and dedication to seniors’ care in our region make a real difference, and I’m always grateful for the chance to hear directly from those doing the work on the ground.

Thank you, Angela, for your advocacy and for everything you do for our long-term care residents and their families.

Jess and Nate are community-builders in every sense, and Stirling-Rawdon shines a little brighter because of them.

If you know someone who deserves a Holiday Spirit Award please fill out the form here:

Their commitment doesn’t stop there. Between running their business, they deliver Meals on Wheels, help with Christmas baskets, and continually find ways to support their neighbours.

— from launching and growing the Stirling Rawdon Holiday Market, to organizing the farmers’ and harvest markets, to hanging the Christmas lights by the covered bridge that have become a local favourite.

May this flag remind us of those we have lost, and may it strengthen our resolve to ensure that every Ontarian can live, learn, love, and thrive as who they are.

As we gathered, I spoke about the progress Ontario has made, the work still ahead of us, and the everyday acts of courage and allyship that build true inclusion. Policies matter — but compassion, understanding, and standing up for one another matter just as much.

This day is dedicated to remembering the transgender, non-binary, gender-diverse, and two-spirit individuals whose lives were taken by acts of hate and transphobic violence. It is a solemn reminder that every person deserves safety, dignity, and the freedom to live authentically without fear.

✨ Nominate them for the MPP Holiday Spirit Award:
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A special thank you to Pine Meadow for everything they do for our seniors and for our community.
If you know someone making the season brighter through generosity, service, or community spirit, I’d love to hear about them.