Olympics ‘great hope of the world’

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April 9, 2026

Former CBC broadcaster, Scott Russell, was at the ‘Bird’s Nest’ at the 2008 Beijing Olympics when “a 6’5 guy from Jamaica got out of the blocks, unfolded himself, and Usain Bolt ran 100m in 9.69 seconds before 95,000 people.

“We didn’t know that he could go that fast – that a human being could go that fast – and then he assumed the lightning bolt pose – the place just erupted. What a place to be at to see that happen,” Russell recalled during an April 7 interview with The Highlander.

A former Kilcoo camper and staffer, who’s had a cottage on Gull Lake the past 15 years, Russell spoke at the Speaker Series April 8, and will be joining Canadian figure skating icon, Tracy Wilson, for a fireside chat at the Minden Community Food Centre fundraiser April 11.

Following the Milano-Cortino Olympics, in which Norway bested the world with 41 medals, compared to Canada’s 21, Russell commented on criticism of a lack of funding for Canadian sport.

“I happen to buy it,” he said. “Core funding for high performance sport has not gone up in this country for 20 years; core funding to the national sport organizations which drive sport in the country. When you’re stagnant for 20 years, and you’re trying to rely on ‘own the podium’ to produce all this high tech and the inside edge, that gets pretty difficult.”

He was asked about the Norway sports model versus what is happening in our nation.

“In many major provinces in this country health and physical education and sport is not part of core curriculum. So, kids are getting a miniscule amount of sport through our educational system, and they’re getting 40 minutes a week, and that’s not enough.

“That’s the difference with Norway. Kids are in sport throughout their school education. They don’t specialize in sport right away. We tend to, in the club system, specialize. If you are going to be a hockey player, you are going to pay to play and you are going to specialize in hockey. Whereas in Norway, you are going to do every sport and when it gets time for high performance, we’re going to identify those people who excel in certain sports at a mature age.”

He’s asked if the Olympics are still relevant in our modern world.

“I love the Olympics and I believe they should be as relevant today as they have been in the past. But they are struggling with so many issues right now. One of them is the Olympics are becoming politicized, and struggling to maintain the ideal. They are also struggling with gender identification.”

However, Russell said, “the Olympics are the great hope of the world – and the idea is that people from every race, faith, gender, orientation, and ability are welcome in the one place in the one time – to engage in competition which is fair and just and to show us what is humanly possible.

“There are people who are trying to corrupt the Olympics. And the Olympics are not perfect, but for two weeks or 16 days, it’s amazing to me that this dysfunctional family that we call humanity can somehow get together and make good things happen. I think we have to hold on to that.”

Keeping the frigid plunge streak alive

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April 9, 2026

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By Adam Frisk Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

On a crisp spring morning, dog walkers are usually seen at Head Lake Park bundled up while taking Fido for a stroll past the frozen beach. But for Jon Dunsmore, the sub-zero temperature and partially frozen lake were just what he needed.

Dressed in his swimsuit, a toque, and a towel hanging off his shoulder, Dunsmore walked the path past the dog park, dropped his beach towel on the rocks, and walked straight into Head Lake.

Dunsmore, who was visiting his mother, a lifelong local, explained to The Highlander that he wasn’t going to let a change in geography break a disciplined habit: a daily polar dip.

“I try to do it every day,” he said. “And I just wanted to keep the streak going.” A resident of British Columbia’s Haida Gwaii, Dunsmore plunges into the Pacific waters every single day in a ritual that isn’t about the thrill, but more about the mental edge.

“It’s not something I enjoy doing,” he admitted after emerging from the icy water of Head Lake. “But to force myself into the water every day is a great element to bring into my life. If I do this every day, everything else seems a little easier.”

Dunsmore said the practice helps boost both his physical and mental health, and that self-discipline was the primary driver. Despite the honking geese that joined the B.C. native in the frigid waters, Dunsmore said his internal dialogue goes silent while he focuses on just one thing. Breathing.

“When I first go into the water, you kind of have that sensation of a loss of breath,” he explained. “I really try to control that, focus on my breathing, and just do some real deep breaths while I’m in there… just silence the mind.”

According to several Canadian studies, frequent plunges into icy water can provide several health benefits, including increased metabolism and reduced inflammation. However, according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, exposure to sudden cold can spike heart rate and blood pressure, which can be dangerous for those who may have heart conditions. People should consult their family doctor before trying the practice, and never take a plunge alone.

As for Dunsmore, back in Haida Gwaii, the ocean temperatures typically hover between 5 C and 10 C, but he found the freshwater of Haliburton to have a bit of a “bite” to it.

“It’s colder than back home, definitely,” he said. “I’ve never taken the temperature of the water [in Haida Gwaii], but it doesn’t have that same bite as it does here.”

Exciting future

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Mike Baker

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April 9, 2026

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The future of the Red Hawks varsity boys’ hockey program looks bright following a successful three-week junior camp in March.

Coach Jason Morissette said 24 players from Grades 9 and 10 participated, which included practices, an exhibition against Fenelon Falls Secondary School March 12 (a 7-6 loss) and inclusion in a multi-school tournament in Peterborough March 25.

They went 2-1 there, beating St. Theresa from Belleville and St. Stephen from Bowmaville before falling to Peterborough’s Holy Cross in the final.

Only five of the players appeared on this year’s varsity team, giving Morissette hope for a bigger and better program in 2026-27.

“It’s been pretty obvious there’s a demand for hockey at Hal High… this was a great way for us to introduce some new players to the program and let them see what it’s like to wear a Red Hawks jersey,” Morissette said.

“The players were a pleasure to deal with, and I’m really excited about this team’s future.”

Storm take OMHA championship title

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April 9, 2026

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The U15 Highland Storm Rep team, sponsored by Cheryl Smith RE/MAX, was crowned Victoria Durham League Champions; which earned their spot at the OMHA U15 Tier 3 Championships Halton Hills this past weekend.

Facing off against five other top teams in their division, the Storm came ready

Their tournament began Friday with an 8:15 a.m. matchup against the Mooretown Jr. Flags. The Storm set the tone with a commanding 4–1 victory. Lucas Upton led with two goals, while Lucas Vale and Austin Cunningham each added one. Assists came from Hudson Meyer and Vale, while goaltender Blake Hutchinson stood strong between the pipes.

Later that evening, the Storm faced the Prince Edward County Kings, securing a decisive 3–0 win. Hunter Hamilton delivered a hat trick, supported by assists from Tyler Hughes and Brady Burke.

With two round-robin wins, the Storm earned a direct bye to the semi-finals, where they once again met the Mooretown Jr. Flags Saturday evening. The team continued their dominant run with another shutout victory, winning 3–0. Cunningham scored twice, Hamilton added another goal and assist.

Championship Sunday saw the undefeated Storm face the Prince Edward County Kings once again. With a strong showing of support from family, friends, and fans who travelled to Halton Hills and filled the stands, the atmosphere was electric.

In a tightly contested battle, Cruize Neave scored the lone goal of the game, assisted by Cunningham, sealing a thrilling 1–0 victory and the OMHA Championship title.

Goaltender Corbin Elliot was exceptional throughout the final three games, recording three consecutive shutouts and proving to be a difference-maker when it mattered most.

The Storm’s defensive unit: Meyer, Burke, Hughes, James Gooley, Duncan EvansFockler, and Liam Milburn played a critical role in the team’s success. Their ability to shut down opponents, and maintain composure under pressure created a solid foundation for the team’s championship run.

Offensively, the forward group of Neave, Hamilton, Cunningham, Vale, Upton, Chase Kerr, Hunter Peelow, Bently Bull, and Kelson Bagshaw worked cohesively, generating opportunities and capitalizing when it counted most.

The championship performance capped off an incredible season for the Storm, finishing with an impressive 24-6-6 record, a 20-game winning streak, and an outstanding 25 games unbeaten (22 wins, 3 ties).

Behind the bench, the team was led by head coach Jesse Johnson, assistant coach Chris Kerr, trainer Tommy Bagshaw, assistant trainer Tyler Martin, and manager Cheryl Smith.

The team extends heartfelt thanks to their dedicated coaching staff, supportive families, and the many fans who stood behind them all season long.

U11 Minden Carquest LL

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April 9, 2026

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The Highland Storm U11 Minden Carquest Local League season was one for the books.

Through unbelievable smiles, effort and determination, these kids went all the way to the A Championship.

The Storm had a great season going 19-3-2 with the highest goals for in the league.

Our defence was the backbone of the team with strong play from Tripp Meier, Keaton DeCarlo, Griffin Hunt and Francis Gilmour.

Our forwards: Wesley Bramham, Sebastian Dart, Chase Casella, Arizona Latanville, Dean DeLanca, Nolan Gallagher, Nixon Hopkins, Jaxon Pelley and Liam Grant were relentless, playing with drive, determination and effort every game.

Jack Hunter and Isaiah Young split duties between the pipes. They both played great all season and helped on the blue line switching between games.

With the incredible support from amazing parents and friends, this season will be hard to top.

The coaches, Adam DeCarlo, Jordan Hunt and Steve Pelley, could not be prouder of the team they grew to be this season.

From all the coaches, we would like to thank the parents for allowing us to share this amazing season with all their wonderful kids.

As for the parents, we had a great time getting to know each and every one of you through all the shenanigans.

Lastly, to the kids of our Highland Storm team, we thank you for giving us a great season of laughs and fun and we are truly sad to see it end.

U9 MD Hockey Haven

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April 9, 2026

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The U9 MD hockey team enjoyed a memorable and successful season marked by growth, teamwork, and a strong sense of camaraderie.

From the first puck drop to the final game, the players demonstrated tremendous dedication and enthusiasm, improving their skills and supporting one another every step of the way. Practices were filled with energy and determination, and it was clear that each player took pride in contributing to the team’s development. From the pre-game chants to the smiles on and off the ice, these moments will all be missed.

Offensively, the team saw standout performances from top scorers Maddox Gaffeney and Nathan Demerchant, who consistently found the back of the net and led by example. They were supported by a talented group of forwards including Gryphon Luck, James Pettes, Jack Parker, Jack Reid, Ella Sperrino, and James Seed, all of whom brought speed, skill, and relentless effort to every game.

On the defensive side, Hudson Lynch, Annabelle Hutson, Johnny Adlam, and Easton Sperrino played a crucial role in protecting their zone, showing resilience and strong positional awareness. Behind them, goaltender Quinntin Clark made significant strides throughout the season. Having not played net at all before, Quinntin developed into a confident and reliable goaltender, making key saves when the team needed them most. His growth in the crease has been remarkable, and he has a very bright future.

Beyond the rink, the team created lasting memories during tournament travels. Time spent together at the pools, water park, arcade, and bowling alley brought the players closer and helped build strong friendships that will last well beyond the season. A season that would not have been possible without the dedication and commitment of the coaching and support staff. A special thank you goes to head coach Jamie Luck, assistant coach Jeff Burk, trainer Adam Hutson, and manager Ally French for their countless hours, guidance, and support. Their leadership helped create a positive and encouraging environment where players could thrive.

Overall, it was a fantastic season full of growth, friendships, and unforgettable moments both on and off the ice. Keep winning the small battles and the opportunities will come. Best of luck in your upcoming tryouts.

Punch Up hilarious and heartwarming

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Lisa Gervais

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April 9, 2026

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Youth theatre company, Ctrl-ART-Del is returning to one of its favourite playwrights as it gets set for a spring production of Punch Up.

The work of Kat Sandler, who wrote Mustard performed two seasons ago, has been chosen again.

Spokesperson Christine Carr said they selected this play for several reasons.

Punch Up features a cast of three. In the play, Duncan has always been a pretty boring guy, leading a simple life while working at a bread factory. He stumbles upon Brenda, a sad young woman who’s about to end her life. Convinced he’s fallen in love, Duncan strikes up a desperate deal: if he can get her to laugh, she’ll give life another shot, but if she doesn’t even giggle, he’ll help her go through with her plan.

There’s just one catch: Duncan isn’t funny. So, he borrows Pat, his second-favourite comedian, to help him come up with the perfect routine. But Pat is having a hard time mustering his sense of humour after a bad break-up.

Carr said Sandler’s plays are witty and entertaining, but reflect the real world and its many challenges. “It allows the cast to delve into deeper themes in very relatable ways, and that comes through to the audience. They will be entertained, will absolutely laugh, but hopefully will also be made to think,” she said.

Asked about a theme of suicide ideation, Carr said, “a scary part of today’s world is how real and prevalent these challenging themes already are in society. That reality is paralleled in many of the works we choose to produce. As with any of our plays, we focus on creating safe spaces where the cast can explore the themes and topics, knowing they have support.”

She said Punch Up examines how people can fight the darkness by finding love and laughter in their life. “It explores the importance of connection.”

The cast features some familiar faces: Chris Chumbley, Sophie Lee and Spencer Zumpano.

Chumbley plays Pat. Carr said, “Chris perfectly embodies Pat, the bitter yet hilarious cynical comedian. This role allows him to showcase his comedic timing and his capacity to embody the character, no matter how damaged they may be.”

Zumpano plays Duncan. “Spencer previously played this role during our youth scene study and connected well with the character. He pairs his love of comedy with his acting experience to bring an unintentionally hilarious and awkward character to life,” Carr said.

Lee plays Brenda. Carr said, “Sophie’s character has experienced true heartbreak and loss and Sophie brings these challenging emotions to life, countering Duncan’s comedic nature. She helps ground the production and has stepped up perfectly into a more serious role.”

Carr encourages folks to check the play out.

“This play is hilarious yet also heartwarming. It explores the importance of love and connection in what can be at times a challenging world. While the play tackles serious topics, it is one that has left us dying of laughter throughout the rehearsal process. We are very excited to see the audience react to the play’s humour and life.”

Recommended for ages 13+ due to the serious nature of the themes and language. The play is April 16-18, 7:30 p.m., at the Northern Lights Performing Arts Pavilion. Tickets are available on-line (tickets. ctrlartdel.ca) or at the door.

What a night

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Mike Baker

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April 2, 2026

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I ended up getting a little more than I bargained for sleeping overnight in my car in Head Lake Park last Friday (March 27).

For years, I’ve covered Places for People’s annual Sleeping in Cars fundraiser. My first one was 2021, back when it was held at Abbey Gardens. I remember speaking to an older couple there who came out to share their experiences sleeping in sub-zero conditions in a barely-heated caravan that winter.

I felt for them, as most empathetic people would. But I didn’t really understand their situation as, fortunately, I’d never been exposed to the elements in such a brutal and prolonged way.

I got a taste of sleeping in the cold last spring, when the power at my Lindsay home was out for five days thanks to that historic ice storm. Still, I was inside an insulated building in a comfy bed next to another warm body and wrapped in half a dozen blankets.

Having gone through that, I mistakenly believed I was experienced in the art of arctic sleeping. I agreed to partake in P4P’s fundraiser without any worries or concerns. Despite most of my friends and family looking at me like I’d gone mad when I told them what I’d be doing, I thought I’d be fine and approached the night as something of a vacation.

Temperatures rose in the lead-up to the event, but it was chilly before sundown – around -6 Celsius. The overnight low was listed as -14, feeling like -18 with the wind chill. Hanging around the fire with some of my fellow car-sleepers, I fooled myself into thinking, again, that this wouldn’t be much of a challenge.

After some hearty conversation with familiar faces – and life stories shared with new friends – I trudged off to my car around 11 p.m.

I didn’t prepare as well as some – I saw many people with mattresses in vans, trucks and SUVs – but still, I was proud of the cozy set-up I’d arranged in the back of my Ford Edge. After a brief call home, I settled in to watch a movie on my phone, hoping I’d drift off to sleep part-way through.

I didn’t.

About 30 minutes in, I had to switch positions to stop my breath from condensing the screen. Around the hour mark, I reached back for my hat and gloves, reapplying them to my near frozen appendages. By this point, I was wearing a pair of longjohns, sweat pants, pyjama pants, two pairs of socks, a shirt, sweater, hoodie, fleeced overthrow and wrapped in three blankets.

By the time the movie ended I couldn’t feel my toes. Thankful for the heat packs I accepted from a P4P volunteer earlier in the night – but internally swore I wouldn’t use while inside my car – I applied two on each foot and hand.

There was some relief initially – enough that I was able to drift off sometime around 1 a.m.

My slumber didn’t last long – I awoke every 30-45 minutes for the rest of the night. I could, and probably should, have turned my car on to warm up. But I felt that would have defeated the purpose. Yes, I was there to raise money for P4P. But I was also there to experience what it’s like for those less fortunate than myself.

When the sun came up just before 7 a.m., the inside of my car was like an ice palace. I had to scrape all the windows before setting off home.

It was a miserable night, but one I’m glad I endured. Truly roughing it without a heater felt like I’d legitimately earned the $380 raised from family and friends. It also gave me a much greater appreciation for the warm bed I have at home. I don’t think I’ve ever slept as well as I did on Saturday.

It might be a stretch to say I enjoyed my overnight stay in Head Lake Park, but it was an experience I can honestly say I’ll never forget.

Wins for health care

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Lisa Gervais

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April 2, 2026

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While many people are still smarting over the loss of the emergency department in Minden, no one can argue that having one ER site has allowed medical improvements in Haliburton County.

Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS), with the help of its foundation, and the general public, has seen a $6 million investment in the diagnostic imaging wing.

To recap; we got a CT scanner in 2024. We were recently told that having a CT has led to a significant decrease in out-of-town ambulance trips for patients. Our ambulance service isn’t taking as many people to Lindsay, Peterborough, or Bracebridge for CTs.

Between 2022-23, the number of transfers was climbing. Now, the number of trips has dropped by about 67 per cent from a 2023 peak. They’re now doing about one transfer a day, down from three. That means more ambulances staying in the County for Highlands accidents and emergencies.

It also means less fuel and wear and tear on ambulances – which means our ambulances will last a little longer. We also know that having a CT scanner has helped with physician recruitment. After years of not much action, we are starting to see more regular announcements about family doctors and ER physicians coming to Haliburton County.

The next addition was the mammography unit. Once again, it is saving women and some men from having to travel to regional hospitals for the scan. It’s another gamechanger.

And, just last week, the health services unveiled a new state-of-the-art X-ray suite. Moving it from its current location will also result in changes to the ER to improve patient flow, and adding a mental health room to support community members and families when they need a private space.

On March 25, County council was expected to green light the financial paperwork to bring Dr. Jeet George for a May 1 start. That’s another 700 patients off the waiting list. He’ll be at the Highlands Family Health Organization and working a day a week in the ER. The team still needs three additional family physicians to bring their staffing level to a full complement, but it’s come a long way.

Today, we have an exciting story about how HHHS is bringing a virtual simulation program to the hospital. Thanks to Dr. Harrison Bishop, it means doctors and nurses, and other members of the healthcare team, can train onsite for possible accident and emergency scenarios, rather than doctors having to go to larger centres for training. Ultimately, it means better patient care for all of us.

The other big news sees Jack Hutchison taking the reins as president and CEO of HHHS March 30. Hutchison spent 11 years working with
the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority, made up of a group of six Indigenous communities across the western James Bay Coast – the past three as senior vice president and chief operating officer. In 2022, he also spent nine months as vice-president of people and culture at Headwaters Health Care Centre in Orangeville.

With the departure of former bosses Veronica Nelson and Jennifer Burns-West to Ross Memorial Hospital, Hutchison is joining a health service that has had some wins.

So, as much as we lament the loss of the Minden emergency department, we look forward to seeing what Hutchison and his team can continue to do at Haliburton hospital – our County’s hospital.

Council pumps brakes on transit talks

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Lisa Gervais

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April 2, 2026

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Once again, plans for a bus between Haliburton village and Minden Hills – with the possibility of one day expanding to Algonquin Highlands and Highlands East – have driven off the road because staff and council have deemed the cost to be too high. In a report to a County of Haliburton council meeting last week, director of economic development and tourism, Scott Ovell, asked councillors to pump the brakes.

The County issued a request for proposals for an on-demand or hybrid transit service in the fall of 2025. They received four bids. However, Ovell said they were all more than double the $182,601.52 the County has in a transit reserve. “If County council still wishes to explore
transit solutions within the County, staff would recommend discussions during 2027 budget deliberations around annual contributions towards the transit reserve,” he said.

This term of County council has been trying to find an affordable provider since 2024 with no success.

Ovell added the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus has been discussing how the provincial government is working towards developing provincial framework to standardize ride-share rules. He said the goal is to improve service in rural areas and reduce municipal red tape as individual municipalities regulate and manage taxi and ride share licences.

Some towns subsidize rides

“It should be noted that if this were to take place, it would not guarantee a ride-share company would choose to operate in Haliburton County, with some businesses citing population density and geography as cost barriers to entering the marketplace in rural Ontario, with some seeking subsidies from local municipalities to offsetoperating costs.”

He said a recent example is Prince Edward County, which used $50,000 of its portion of the Municipal Accommodation Tax in 2023 to support a partnership with Uride. He noted the contribution was lowered to $30,000 in 2025.

“County staff will continue to monitor progress on the provincial legislation and will follow up with council should provincial legislation be updated.” Ovell added.

Coun. Bob Carter said the need for some form of public transportation “is not going to go away… particularly as the County’s population grows, and to more unsettled areas.” He agreed with what was being proposed but said, “I think the next step is we should ask staff to try to put together what it would cost for us to have transportation. In other words, what would the subsidy need to be. So, when we get into budgeting, we decide.” He said towns such as Peterborough heavily subsidize their transportation,supplemented by Trent University providing students with bus passes.

Coun. Jennifer Dailloux suggested it might be time to scrap a fixed route system, in favour of subsidizing private systems. She suggested they talk to organizations such as Point in Time, and SIRCH, as well as Haliburton Highlands Health Services. The latter two have trialled smaller transportation projects in the Highlands.

Coun. Murray Fearrey said with little commercial or industrial tax base, the cost will come on the backs of residential taxpayers.

CAO Gary Dyke said they are not stopping the discussion, and staff will be looking to reprioritize spending in future. “Transit will be an important part of this as we go forward.”

The Ontario government announced April 1 it is doubling its support for the Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF) through the 2026 provincial budget, increasing it from $5 million to $10 million annually over the next three years. The OTIF supports the start-up and expansion of transit projects like new bus services, on-demand rideshare services and door-to-door transportation