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In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Why the provincial budget was sweet news for Ontario's craft cider producers.

For years, craft cider makers have been lobbying the province, arguing that they don't get the same tax treatment as craft breweries.

But that all changed last week, when the Ford government's latest budget included some big news for the industry. 

Starting on August 1, the government will harmonize the taxes levied on craft cider with those levied on craft beer, which means the markup on cider at the LCBO will be reduced from 60.6 per cent to 32 per cent.

SEE: Provincial budget delivers tax fairness for Ontario cider makers

CollingwoodToday reporter Chris Fell joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Send us a text

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A not-so-flattering story about Sunshine Girls.

First unveiled in 1971, Sunshine Girls have been a regular feature in the pages of the The Toronto Sun ever since. But when COVID-19 hit, the newspaper stopped photographing new subjects — choosing instead to re-run some of the same shots over and over again, both in print and online.

As TorontoToday reporter Alex Flood discovered, some women who posed years ago are not happy that their photos and outdated write-ups are being recycled. “It’s distasteful,” said one former Sunshine Girl.

SEE: Photos of Toronto Sun 'Sunshine Girls' are being rerun again and again — critics call it the 'death rattle' for tabloid news

Flood joins us tonight from downtown Toronto to talk about how his story came together, and what the reaction has been. You can read his article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Send us a text

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Stolen memories.

As a goalie on Canada's national sledge hockey team, Paul Rosen enjoyed plenty of success — including a Paralympic gold medal in 2006 and a world championship two years later.

But Rosen has also been open about his battle with mental health and addiction, hoping his story — laid bare in his recently released book, Never Give Up — helps others who might be struggling.

This month, the former goalie received some devastating news: someone broke into his Newmarket storage locker and stole $30,000 worth of sports memorabilia — including hockey jerseys signed by stars Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, as well as the prized glove he wore when playing for Team Canada at the Paralympic Winter Games in Turin, Italy.

SEE: Local Paralympian hopes for return of stolen memorabilia, equipment

In typical fashion, Rosen is trying not to focus on the negative.

“As much as this is not the greatest thing in the world, it still is property," he said. "It still is items. It’s not life, and I’m just moving on right now." 

NewmarketToday reporter Joseph Quigley covered the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: When a dog attacks.

A Guelph mom is looking for some accountability after a neighbour's dog lunged at her nine-year-old daughter and bit her in the face.

The little girl needed four stitches in her left cheek.

Brianne Perna said she contacted the Guelph Humane Society, bylaw, public health, the legal clinic and the Landlord and Tenant Board, but has received few answers about what should happen to the dog and its owner.

“Nobody seems to care, and this dog is going to kill someone, and I'm just trying to stop that from happening,” she said.

SEE: Calls for accountability after dog bites nine-year-old in the face

GuelphToday reporter Santana Bellantoni covered the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': One of the greatest female baseball players of all time made history on Sunday at Christie Pits in Toronto, pitching two scoreless innings on a team full of men.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Breaking the glass ceiling — with a fastball.

Ayami Sato is widely considered one of the best female baseball players of all time. The 35-year-old superstar pitcher previously led her home country of Japan to six World Cup championships before coming overseas for a new challenge.

On Sunday, Sato accomplished another milestone: becoming the first woman to ever play for a professional men’s baseball team in Canada.

She tossed two scoreless innings for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the Intercounty Baseball League, leaving the mound to a huge ovation from the crowd at Christie Pits.

SEE: Glass ceiling smashed: Toronto pitcher makes baseball history in Christie Pits

TorontoToday reporter Alex Flood covered the historic game and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': BarrieToday reporter-photographer Kevin Lamb is being recognized for a series of powerful stories that put a face on the homelessness crisis in his community.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Local journalism that makes an impact.

SEE: BarrieToday reporter up for national award for homelessness coverage

One of our Village Media staffers has been nominated for a national award for a series of articles that put a face on the homelessness crisis in his community.

BarrieToday reporter-photographer Kevin Lamb is nominated for Best News Coverage (Community Publication) at the 10th annual Digital Publishing Awards for the following stories that focused on one person in particular: a 75-year-old local known as ‘Rick the Mayor.’

• ‘I don’t live like this — I hate it’: Barrie shed dwellers battle elements
• ‘Very sad’: Homeless community mourns loss of Rick, ‘The Mayor’
• ‘Good soul’: Rick ‘The Mayor’ mourned at outdoor service
• ‘They just aren’t as fortunate’: Good Samaritans offer food, land

BarrieToday editor Raymond Bowe says Lamb has a special way of getting people to open up.

"Kevin is a quiet guy with keen listening skills, which is critical while interviewing people, especially when trying to get them to speak openly about their situation, often in less-than-ideal circumstances," Bowe said. "He cares, and that comes through in his reporting."

Lamb joins us tonight to talk about his nomination, and how he brought such powerful stories to light.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': The owner of a landmark Orillia building ravaged by a massive blaze showed empathy for the convicted arsonist in court — 'Let this be the fire that ignites change for you'.

​In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Compassion for a convicted arsonist.

In January, a massive fire ripped through a landmark building in downtown Orillia, causing $6 million in damage and displacing numerous tenants.

SEE: Aerial photos capture devastation of downtown fire

Brandon Costa, a 35-year-old homeless man, pleaded guilty this week to arson. 

According to a joint submission of the facts presented in court, Costa was captured on camera lighting a fire in a vestibule of the building in order to stay warm. Within minutes, the blaze was out of control.

SEE: 'Major arson': Homeless man pleads guilty to setting $6M fire that destroyed landmark Orillia building

Costa is expected to be sentenced on May 13. In the meantime, the owner of the now-demolished building says he hopes Costa's conviction will be a turning point in his life.

“Let this be the fire that ignites change for you,” Dr. Jeffrey Pitcher wrote in his victim impact statement, which was read aloud in court.

BarrieToday court reporter Peter Robinson covered the guilty plea and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': After months of debate, a piece of Northern Ontario nostalgia is on the move.

​In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A new chapter for "The Storyteller."

For countless travellers along Highway 11, "Guy-Paul Treefall" — otherwise known as "The Storyteller" — has been a longtime landmark. But now in desperate need of some fixing, the statue left the Town of Iroquois Falls in a difficult spot: Repair, relocate or replace?

Last week, local councillors made a final decision: the well-known statue is being moved to a new spot at the town's museum.

SEE: Highway 11 landmark officially has a new home

TimminsToday reporter Marissa Lentz-McGrath has been covering the statue saga and joins us tonight with the latest details. You can read her latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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​In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Banana peel stir fry.

A Guelph woman is on a mission to live a zero-waste lifestyle — and help others live more sustainably along the way.

For several years, Anna Schwanke has been documenting her sustainability journey on Instagram, sharing eco-friendly tips like different types of composting, how to use an entire fruit right down to its seeds, travel sustainably and reuse bubble mailers. 

SEE: From banana peels to bulk shopping: A Guelph woman's journey to zero waste

GuelphToday reporter Taylor Pace caught up with Schwanke and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her story HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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The dust has settled on Canada's 46th federal election, with Mark Carney's Liberals capturing a razor-thin minority over Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives.

It was a stunning turnaround, considering just how dire the Liberal Party's prospects seemed to be in the months before Justin Trudeau stepped down as leader.

Village Media's team of political reporters — Jessica Smith Cross of The Trillium, along with Katherine DeClerq and Palak Mangat of Parliament Today — were in Ottawa Monday night with both party leaders as the results came in.

On tonight's 'Closer Look,' they break down the winners, the losers, and what to expect in the days and weeks to come.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel.

And in case you missed it, click HERE for our exclusive podcast interview with Prime Minister Carney.

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After weeks of polls, promises and political posturing, we can finally see the finish line.

At 10 p.m. EDT, when voting closes on the west coast, federal election results will start pouring in across the country.

By the end of the night, one party will come out on top: Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives or Mark Carney’s Liberals.

Village Media’s political reporters are in Ottawa tonight to cover both camps as the results are revealed.

Palak Mangat of Parliament Today and Jessica Smith Cross of The Trillium will be on scene with Carney’s supporters, while Parliament Today editor Katherine DeClerq brings us the latest from the Poilievre camp.

On tonight’s ‘Closer Look,’ Village Media's Scott Sexsmith talks to all three about what to expect in the coming hours.

Be sure to stay glued to the election page on this news site for up-to-the-minute results — both national and local — starting at 10 p.m.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Ransomware attacks are big business, but rarely does the public get an inside glimpse of just how costly they can be. One of our reporters peels back the curtain — with the help of FOI legislation.

​In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: The true cost of a cyberattack.

Hackers are as busy as ever these days, breaching the computer systems of vulnerable companies and other institutions in pursuit of ransoms. 

Cyberattacks are big business — but rarely does the public get an inside glimpse of just how costly they can be.

Village Media's Sudbury.com used freedom-of-information legislation to uncover more details about a 2024 cyber incident that crippled IT services at Laurentian University. It turns out the attack cost the university more than $800,000 in consulting fees, overtime and other expenses (insurance claim pending).

SEE: FOI reveals 2024 cyber incident at Laurentian cost university almost $818K

Sudbury.com reporter Heidi Ulrichsen broke the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': How a TorontoToday article about an iconic Australian food item triggered an international incident — and plenty more headlines.

​In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: How our local journalism triggered an international incident.

Earlier this month, Village Media's TorontoToday published a story about a café chain that was ordered to destroy thousands of dollars worth of Vegemite, a yeast-based spread that is to Australians what maple syrup is to Canadians.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency said the café's Vegemite was “found to have added vitamins,” which goes against national food regulations.

Our story ended up sparking massive media attention in Toronto and Australia, prompting “discussions” between Australian and Canadian government officials, according to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

In the end, common sense prevailed.

SEE: Vegemite returns to Toronto cafe's shelves after food agency backs down on non-compliance order

TorontoToday reporter Kathryn Mannie covered the unfolding saga and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Bob and Doug McKenzie would be proud of a newly opened restaurant in Toronto, where every last detail pays homage to the true north strong and free.

​In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Something a bit lighter (and not just the beer).

At a time when our very sovereignty is under threat, a new bar and restaurant in Toronto is helping to remind customers why Canada is worth defending. 

The Grizzly Bar is the kind of place that would make Bob and Doug McKenzie proud, complete with nostalgic Canadian photographs, posters and other memorabilia.

“There’s so much negativity out there and it’s easy to doom scroll," said co-owner Jessica Langer. "But we wanted this to be a place where you could go and be happy to be Canadian.”

SEE: About Canucking time: Toronto’s new all-Canadian bar is ready to party

TorontoToday reporter Alex Flood, who joins us tonight, was given an advance look at the new space. You can read his story HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': CollingwoodToday reporter Jessica Owen is being recognized for her powerful story about an Ontario woman who struggled to access basic supports after a brutal sexual assault.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Local reporting that makes an impact.

CollingwoodToday reporter Jessica Owen has been named a finalist for a Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) award for human rights reporting.

Owen is being recognized for her powerful reporting about a woman who was sexually assaulted and then struggled to find basic supports, including having to drive more than an hour to the only hospital in Simcoe County that offers a rape kit. 

Her work is nominated alongside journalists from APTN, The Toronto Star Investigative Journalism Bureau, Noovo Info and La Presse. 

"Jessica's story was an eye-opening account of what some victims of sexual assault go through, not only during the assault, but afterwards if and when they ask for help," said Erika Engel, the editor of CollingwoodToday. "It absolutely is an important human rights story and it's an important local story." 

SEE: Lack of support leaves victim of violent rape more 'angry, horrified'

Owen joins us tonight to talk about her nomination, and the challenges she faced in bringing such an important story to light. You can read her award-nominated coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': In Ontario, pet cremation is a common occurrence — but what happened to this Burlington cat lover is anything but normal.

Like thousands of pet owners in Ontario, Valerie Stevenson chose to cremate her beloved cat "Jewels" when she died 20 years ago. The Burlington woman kept the cat's ashes in a special urn on a dresser.

But recently, when another one of her cats knocked over the container, Stevenson made a shocking discovery: the ashes actually belonged to a dog, not her cat.

Amid the mess, she found a bone-shaped tag with the name "Sparky" — and a follow-up conversation with the company that performed the cremation confirmed the truth. 

Unfortunately, the company does not have records dating back two decades ago. So Stevenson is now on a mission to try to find Sparky's owner — and potentially reunite with Jewels' ashes.

SEE: Burlington resident looking for Sparky’s owners after cremation mix-up two decades ago

On tonight's episode of Village Media's 'Closer Look,' Scott Sexsmith speaks to BurlingtonToday reporter Calum O'Malley about Stevenson's ongoing search. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': As global travellers steer clear of the United States — and more Ontarians plan to vacation close to home — this could be a super summer for our province's tourism sector.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A Trump-inspired tourism boom?

A report from Time magazine projects that foreign visitors to the U.S. will spend $9 billion less this year than in 2024, while Bloomberg reports that European tourists are now avoiding the United States altogether. 

Could this be a golden opportunity for Ontario's tourism sector? It just might.

Some communities are already working hard to market themselves as friendly, must-visit destinations for foreign travellers who might otherwise vacation in the U.S. The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) also projects that more Ontarians will be vacationing closer to home this summer, which the group's president calls "very positive news."

SEE: Ontario tourism using ‘arms open’ approach to attract Americans amid political tension

TorontoToday reporter Alex Flood has been examining the travel trends and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Newmarket has joined the likes of Barrie and Mississauga in removing all Stars and Stripes from municipal arenas — a strong but symbolic gesture in the face of Trump's tariffs.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Flag flap.

The Town of Newmarket became the latest Ontario community to remove U.S. flags from municipal arenas — a form of protest against President Donald Trump's punishing trade war. Cities like Barrie and Mississauga have already taken down the Stars and Stripes.

Newmarket Mayor John Taylor said the move is ultimately a "symbolic action" and that people are welcome to have differing opinions.

“It feels awkward to even broach the topic,” he said. “But also on the other side of the coin, there’s already a lot of people suffering."

SEE: Newmarket to take 'symbolic action' of removing U.S. flags at arenas

Should other Ontario communities follow suit? Will removing U.S. flags make even the slightest bit of difference?

NewmarketToday reporter Joseph Quigley joins us tonight with his thoughts. You can read his latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Family and friends delivered emotional victim impact statements at the sentencing hearing for a 26-year-old Ontario man whose drinking and driving caused a deadly crash.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: 'A time bomb waiting to explode.'

In Guelph, a drunk driver has been sentenced to six years in prison — and slapped with a 10-year licence ban — after killing a 31-year-old man who "had so much more life to experience.”

Nicholas McGrath, 26, pleaded guilty in connection with a fatal 2023 crash near Hillsburgh, which claimed the life of David Thomas.

SEE: Drunk driver in fatal Hillsburgh crash was 'a time bomb waiting to explode'

“David’s death has completely shattered my life, and left a hole in my heart,” said Karen Thomas, David's mother, during a packed court hearing last week. “This senseless and preventable loss has devastated our family, and inflicted a pain no words can capture.”

GuelphToday reporter Mark Pare was in the courtroom for the sentencing and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is jeopardizing longstanding efforts between Canada and the United States to fight invasive sea lampreys.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Elon Musk and the blood-sucking "vampire fish."

For years, Canada and the United States have worked together to fight against a common enemy: sea lampreys in the Great Lakes. An invasive species, the eel-like creatures attach onto other fish, such as lake trout, whitefish and salmon, to suck their blood, feed on their flesh and ultimately kill them. 

But our cross-border eradication efforts are now in jeopardy after cuts by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), helmed by Canadian-American billionaire Elon Musk.

SEE: Great Lakes ‘vampire’ fish eradication efforts delayed by DOGE cuts

TorontoToday reporter Gabe Oatley has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Tiny Township in Simcoe County has won a court battle over vacation rental regulations that could have major implications on municipalities across the province.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A court battle over short-term rentals.

In municipalities across Ontario, Airbnbs and other short-term vacation properties have triggered plenty of complaints from neighbours. In response, communities like Tiny Township have enacted bylaws that require short-term rentals (STRs) to be licensed.

In Tiny's case, a group of owners challenged the regulations in court, arguing they essentially ban cottage rentals. A judge disagreed, issuing a ruling that could set a precedent for other cities and towns around the province.

SEE: Tiny mayor 'grateful' after Ontario court upholds STR bylaw

MidlandToday editor Andrew Philips has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: How our local reporters chronicled the aftermath of a nasty storm.

Three days after a wicked ice storm rocked parts of central Ontario, tens of thousands of homes and businesses remain without power.

In Simcoe County, which bore the brunt of the epic storm, residents are still coming to terms with the damage left behind.

SEE: Couple staying strong amid ice-storm havoc

In Orillia, where most residents lost power when the storm struck on Saturday night, OrilliaMatters editor Dave Dawson wrote about how the city's "landscape has been scarred forever."

As hydro crews work around the clock to turn the lights back on, our local journalists in the region have been capturing powerful images of the storm's aftermath.

GALLERY: 50 photos show devastation of central Ontario ice storm as cleanup efforts begin

BarrieToday reporter Kevin Lamb, who is among the journalists covering the ongoing story, joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': One day after announcing himself as a candidate in the riding of Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt, Nicholas Bonderoff was escorted out the door of his job.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Fired for being a PPC candidate?

Earlier this month, Nicholas Bonderoff declared himself as the People's Party of Canada candidate in the newly formed riding of Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt. The next day, he was terminated from his job as a manager at the engineering firm BESTECH.

“They’re a great company, but I believe that they were concerned from strictly a business perspective that having me associated with the PPC and working for the company could impact them negatively,” Bonderoff said.

SEE: People’s Party candidate believes political views led to his firing

Bonderoff is promising to launch a legal challenge. In the meantime, his firing has drawn a lot of attention his campaign — including from PPC leader Maxime Bernier, who jumped to his candidate's defence.

“We are living, supposedly, in a democratic country where you have a Charter of Rights and the freedom of thought, freedom of opinion is important,” Bernier told Sudbury.com, adding that Bonderoff should not have been fired for his political beliefs.

“You’re doing that in a communist country, not a democratic country," he said. "Shame on them."

SEE: ‘Shame on them,’ PPC leader says after Sudbury candidate fired

Sudbury.com reporter Tyler Clarke has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': We revisit our latest podcast episode featuring Jane Wilcox, who is working around the clock to free her husband after he was accused of drug smuggling in Punta Cana.

The waiting continues for David Bennett, a Burlington, Ont. man arrested in the Dominican Republic for suspected drug trafficking — an allegation he and his family insist is a lie.

Bennett was supposed to board a flight home from his Punta Cana vacation on March 7. Three weeks later, he remains in limbo.

“We’re taking every angle to get David home," his wife, Jane Wilcox, told our Inside the Village podcast. "We’re leaving no stone unturned.”

SEE: Burlington man stranded in Dominican Republic faces bogus drug charges, says family

“It’s a nightmare," Wilcox continued. "He is a physically strong guy, but mentally it’s taken a toll on him and our family.”

You can watch the full podcast episode HERE.

Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.

Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.

Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': A Collingwood fraudster whose ticket scams earned him a memorable nickname will have a lot of time to think about his crimes — in a prison cell.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Ticket to prison.

A notorious fraudster has been sentenced to 15 months in custody for an elaborate scam involving tens of thousands of dollars worth of non-existent hockey and concert tickets — including tickets to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game in Toronto.

The judge in the case had particularly harsh words for Todd "The Fraud" Guthrie. 

"This is exploitation of Canadian culture," said Ontario Court Justice Angela McLeod. "You weren’t defrauding people of a basket of apples."

SEE: Judge punches 15-month ticket to jail for Collingwood fraudster

BarrieToday court reporter Peter Robinson has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: The 'Buy Canadian' movement inflicts some collateral damage.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Pity the owner of your local duty free shop.

As U.S. President Donald Trump intensifies his tariff war against Canada, one sector in particular is bracing for impact: duty free stores.

Sales have plummeted at outlets on this side of the border as more and more Canadians are choosing not to travel into the United States — and consequently, not purchase any goods on the way over.

The situation is so dire that the newly formed Border Mayors Alliance is calling on the federal government to financially support duty free store owners.

SEE: Duty free shops in 'a tough spot' amid ongoing trade war

SooToday reporter Greg McGrath-Goudie has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Brad Dunsmoor of Innisfil, Ont., moved to the east coast to live out his dream retirement. Two months ago, his remains were discovered down a dirt road near Halifax.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: What happened to Brad Dunsmoor?

A longtime baseball and soccer coach who volunteered his time in both Toronto and Innisfil, Dunsmoor moved east to Nova Scotia two years ago after retiring as a drywaller.

But in January, his family received a devastating piece of news: Dunsmoor's remains were discovered inside a burnt-out truck near Halifax. He was 63.

Two months later, his grieving family is still waiting for answers from the RCMP, who continue to investigate.

"Still nothing,” said his son, Bennie Dunsmoor. “It’s a snail’s pace with those guys. It's ridiculous."

SEE: 'Still nothing': Police probing Nova Scotia death of Innisfil's Brad Dunsmoor

InnisfilToday editor Chris Simon has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Six months after Juanita Migwans disappeared from M'Chigeeng First Nation, her loved ones are hoping a series of new billboards will help crack the case.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Where is Juanita Migwans?

It's been almost six months since anyone has seen the 31-year-old from M'Chigeeng First Nation, on Manitoulin Island. Migwans did not have her bank card or cell phone when she vanished, and her loved ones fear the worst.

"Juanita would not have taken off on her own," her aunt said. "She is a daughter, a mother and a close friend to many."

In the latest development, supporters have set up a GoFundMe page to help pay for billboard rentals that feature Migwans' photo and case information.

SEE: Crowdfunding effort underway to rent billboards in hopes of finding missing woman

SooToday reporter Kenneth Armstrong has been covering the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: Paying tribute to a 15-year-old who 'cared about everybody'.

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local

Nolan Ion, 15, was a member of the Upper York Admirals U16 AA team. He was a talented player but also a great teammate who "just cared about everybody."

Tragically, Nolan suffered cardiac arrest while in gym class and later died in hospital. His family and coach are now sharing his story, hoping to prevent the same thing from happening to other young athletes.

SEE: Family loses faith in Southlake after tragic passing of 15-year-old hockey player

Joseph Quigley, a reporter at NewmarketToday, joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': All signs point to an imminent federal election. 

In cities and towns across Ontario — and at Queen’s Park and Parliament Hill — our journalists work for you. Their mission is to dig for answers and tell you what they find.

This new feature — ‘Closer Look’ — is a chance to hear directly from those reporters and editors. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Get ready to cast your ballot (again).

Although it's not official yet, reports say Prime Minister Mark Carney will dissolve Parliament on Sunday and call a snap federal election. 

Carney was asked to confirm the speculation at a housing announcement in Edmonton today, right after he had the chance to skate at practice with the Edmonton Oilers.

He deked around the question, replying that Gov. Gen. Mary Simon will be the first to know — and that "in this time of crisis" the government needs "a strong and clear mandate” to lead the country.

Translation: Let the campaign begin.

ParliamentToday reporter Palak Mangat joins us tonight with the latest details. You can read all our federal politics coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Two landlords share the horror stories of what they discovered when they finally managed to evict their problem tenants.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A landlord's worst nightmare.

For more than two years, Bradford’s Michelle Taddeo and her partner Tony Natale tried to evict a problem tenant from their basement apartment. When they finally did, they were shocked to find the damage left behind.

"He broke everything," Taddeo said. 

SEE: 'It hurts': Bradford landlord on the hook for $36K in repairs, unpaid rent

In nearby Ramara, Ont., a fellow landlord found a similar mess after winning a 13-month legal battle to evict a nightmare tenant.

“They burned out the well pump, overloaded the septic, and destroyed everything,” said one of the owners. “We’re over $35,000 in the hole just from lost rent, and now we’re looking at another $15,000 in repairs.”

VIDEO: Ramara landlord evicts tenants who 'trashed' home in costly, 13-month legal battle

BradfordToday reporter Michael Owen joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': In a dramatic raid captured on video, heavily armed police in Barrie executed a search warrant at the wrong house. Should the cops pay for the damage left behind?

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: When cops raid the wrong house, who pays for damages?

Last month, Barrie Police busted through Matthew Patton's front door, armed with a search warrant. Within seconds, he was on the floor in handcuffs.

The problem? The cops banged down the wrong door. The suspect they were looking for actually lived in the basement apartment.

"They should be held to a higher standard before kicking in random doors — make sure they know where they’re going," Patton said. "That shouldn’t even be a question."

SEE: 'Wrong house, man!': Police raid leaves Barrie man with $11K repair bill (VIDEO)

BarrieToday reporter Kevin Lamb joins us tonight with the details. You can read his article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: When will Mark Carney send us to the polls?

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Meet your next prime minister.

Former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney won the Liberal leadership in a landslide victory last night, capturing victory on the first ballot with a whopping 86 per cent of votes.

SEE: Mark Carney wins race to replace Justin Trudeau

In his victory speech, Carney thanked the other candidates and spoke about the importance of unity, particularly in light of the tariff threats coming from the United States.

“America is not Canada," he said. "And Canada never, ever, will be part of America in any way, shape or form. We didn’t ask for this fight, but Canadians are always ready when someone else drops the gloves. So Americans should make no mistake, in trade as in hockey, Canada will win.”

Village Media's Katherine DeClerq, the editor of ParliamentToday, joins us tonight to talk about Carney's big win — and when Canadians can expect an election call. You can read her coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': After a dream vacation spiralled into a nightmare, a Northern Ontario woman is warning fellow travellers to be vigilant if they're heading to Mexico for March Break.

On tonight's episode: A not-so-dream vacation.

A Northern Ontario woman is warning fellow travellers to be vigilant after she was caught in the crossfire of a cartel shooting while on vacation in Mexico.

Lisa Sambell and her boyfriend were at a bar in Playa del Carmen on Jan. 26 when two men opened fire on the establishment, striking her in the arm.

“I just remember bleeding everywhere and yelling: ‘I’ve been shot!’” she says.

SEE: Moonbeam woman gets caught in the crossfire of Mexican cartel violence

Sambell's warning to other travellers heading to Mexico?

"Be vigilant," she says. "Know that cartel activity is real. Avoid risky situations, stick to well-lit areas, and get travel insurance."

Marissa Lentz-McGrath, a reporter at TimminsToday, joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Maybe it's a good thing the Ford government introduced mandatory financial literacy classes for Ontario high school students.

Here's another reason to worry about a lengthy trade war with the United States.

According to figures released last week, consumer debt in Canada hit a record $2.56 trillion in the fourth quarter of 2024 — and Ontario residents are struggling more than anyone else to make their payments.

Equifax Canada’s fourth quarter Consumer Credit Trends Report found that 11,000 Ontarians missed a mortgage payment in the fourth quarter, which is three times more than in 2022.

The average non-mortgage debt per Canadian consumer? $21,931, exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

If Donald Trump's on-again, off-again tariff threats become a reality, those numbers will almost certainly get worse.

On a recent episode of our Inside the Village podcast, financial expert Saijal Patel joined us to talk about why it's more important than ever to be teaching the next generation how to manage their money.

You can watch the full episode HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': A one-on-one conversation with Liberal leadership candidate Karina Gould.

On Sunday, the Liberal Party of Canada will choose Justin Trudeau's successor.

Four candidates are vying for the Liberal leadership: former Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney, former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland, former cabinet minister Karina Gould, and former MP Frank Baylis.

Tonight on "Closer Look": An in-depth conversation with one of the candidates.

From her home in Burlington, Karina Gould sat down today with the hosts of our Inside the Village podcast. The aspiring prime minister covered a lot of ground in the conversation, including tariffs, Donald Trump, the carbon tax, and why she  believes— despite the polls — that she is the best person for the job.

If you don't know a lot about Karina Gould, you will after watching this interview.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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With thousands of Canadians travellers set to take off next week, the hosts of our Inside the Village podcast get some helpful advice from a leading expert on air passenger rights.

Donald Trump's promised tariffs officially took effect at 12:01 this morning, sending stock markets into disarray and triggering retaliatory countermeasures from our federal and provincial governments. 

Even before then, plenty of boycott-minded Canadians had already pledged to shop local, steering clear of American brands as much as possible.

But what about travel? With March Break right around the corner, thousands of Canadians have already booked vacations south of the border.

Is it too late to cancel your flight? Is "trade war" reason enough for a full refund?

"I am afraid not," says Gábor Lukács, president of the advocacy group Air Passenger Rights, who was a guest today on our Inside the Village podcast. 

"There is no provision in the airlines' terms and conditions that would allow you to unilaterally cancel your travel just because a trade war has started," Lukács says. "If the airline cancels your flight and wants to book you to a later time, if they delay your flight by more than three hours, those types of situations could give you a basis for cancelling. But just because you no longer want to go there, that is unfortunately not a basis for cancelling."

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: Why the much-hyped Ring of Fire project is still years away.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Why Doug Ford is on fire to get moving on the Ring of Fire.

Fresh off last week’s provincial election win, Premier Ford said today he's ready to pick a fight with the feds in order to expedite critical minerals production in the face of a looming trade war with the U.S.

Saying Ontario is in a pandemic-like “survival mode,” Ford said it's time to "do more and act faster” in order to use the Ring of Fire as leverage against the Trump administration’s tariffs on Canadian goods.

SEE: Ford sends message to Ottawa on Ring of Fire: Get out of our way

But actually building the roads necessary to reach the massive mineral deposit is still years away — maybe as late as 2040.

SEE: Ring of Fire access roads may not be complete until 2040

Alan S. Hale, a Queen's Park reporter at The Trillium, joins us to talk about today's developments. You can read his latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Overtime winner, fast food dinner. The local McDonald's in Connor McDavid's hometown of Newmarket is celebrating his huge game-winning goal with a temporary name change.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Overtime winner, fast food dinner.

On paper, it was an exhibition game that meant absolutely nothing. But for millions of Canadians, the final of the 4 Nations Face-Off against the Team USA was a proxy for the brewing tensions between both countries.

When superstar Connor McDavid scored the OT winner, the entire nation exhaled. (The only thing better would have been if McDavid pocketed the goal in the 51st minute of overtime.)

In his hometown of Newmarket, the celebration was extra sweet. Even the local McDonald's has temporarily changed its name to "McDavid's" in honour of his on-ice heroics. (A McDonald's in Edmonton, home to McDavid's Oilers, has done the same).

SEE: 'Hometown pride': Newmarket McDonald's renamed McDavid's to celebrate NHL star

NewmarketToday reporter Joseph Quigley joins us tonight with all the tasty details. You can read his article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an interesting story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: Beware of those giant dangling icicles.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Beware of falling icicles.

SEE: Those big, dangling icicles on the roof are a danger and you could be liable

Slips and falls are part and parcel of Canadian winters — but they're not the only seasonal hazard property owners could be liable for.

Falling icicles could lead to lawsuits, too, so owners and tenants should be careful to take the proper precautions.

Just don't use a blowtorch to melt them away. Bad idea.

SEE: Apartment fire allegedly caused by blow-torching icicles: tenants

GuelphToday reporter Santana Bellantoni joins us tonight to explain what she's learned. You can read her latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': A handmade quilt created to honour residential school survivors was stolen earlier this month from a Timmins museum, then anonymously dropped in a library book return.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A museum mystery.

SEE: Quilt honouring residential school survivors stolen from Timmins museum

A handmade quilt created to honour residential school survivors was stolen earlier this month from a Timmins museum — then anonymously returned a week later.

Someone left the stolen quilt in a library drop box, to the relief of Vanessa Génier, founder and CEO of Quilts for Survivors.

“That's all we wanted," she said. "We don't care who took it. We don't care why they took it. There's no excuse for taking it, but we're just glad it's back."

SEE: 'We're just glad it's back': Quilt stolen in Timmins returned

TimminsToday reporter Marissa Lentz-McGrath covered the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her latest article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': With Donald Trump back in the White House, basic climate change data is starting to disappear from U.S. government websites — but not all of it.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: The rush to preserve climate-change data from "Trump-scrubbing."

For the past several months, University of Guelph geography professor Eric Nost has been working with the Environmental Data Governance Initiative (EDGI) to safeguard climate change and other data sets being removed by the Trump administration. 

"A lot of what we're archiving and safeguarding is very basic biophysical indicators of climate changes, environmental conditions that are really important means by which we understand how the climate is changing," said Nost. "We've also made sure to prioritize data sets that tell us who is impacted by changing climate and environmental conditions, which we've seen be a real target of this administration." 

SEE: U of G prof helping preserve climate change data from Trump-scrubbing

So far, Nost said the group has managed to archive approximately 60 data sets ranging from sea level rise estimates to wildfire risk predictions and pollution data sets. 

GuelphToday reporter Isabel Buckmaster covered the story and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her article HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. Tonight: We follow Doug Ford on another election-campaign detour to the U.S. Capitol.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Doug Ford takes another trip to Washington.

With just six days left to go until Ontarians head to the polls, PC Leader Doug Ford spent another day in Washington — this time, to lobby U.S. governors on the value of free trade with Canada.

How did Ford do on his Friday trip? About as well as the U.S. hockey team the night before, it appears.

SEE: 'Is that the premier that has the oil?' Ford's D.C. charm offensive shows signs of struggle

Jessica Smith Cross, Editor-in-Chief at The Trillium, was in Washington for Ford's visit and joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': As U.S. President Donald Trump ramps up his 51st state rhetoric — just hours before the big game — Canadians are expressing their national pride in ways not seen in a long time.

In case you haven't heard, there's a big hockey game tonight: Team Canada versus Team U.S.A. in the final of the 4 Nations Face-Off.

And right on cue, U.S. President Donald Trump seized the moment to once again muse about Canada becoming the 51st state.

"I’ll be calling our great American Hockey Team this morning to spur them on towards victory tonight against Canada," Trump wrote on social media, adding that "if Governor Trudeau would like to join us, he would be most welcome,"

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt doubled down later in the day, saying: "We look forward to the United States beating our soon-to-be 51st state, Canada." 

WATCH: Donald Trump repeats 'ridiculous' pitch for Canada to become 51st state

Back in the real world, Trump's comments have actually helped trigger a surge in Canadian pride. From a memorable National Flag Day to the popularity of Captain Canuck T-shirts, we're definitely showing off our Canadian these days.

In Sault Ste. Marie, one local business owner is getting a lot of attention — good and bad — for her "Canada Is Not For Sale" apparel.

SEE: Local business owner receiving flack for 'Canada Is Not For Sale' apparel

SooToday editor Brandon Walker joins us on tonight's 'Closer Look' with all the details. You can read his coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': Forget all the negative headlines for a few minutes — because the 1980s movie Youngblood is being remade, with a little help from the OHL's Barrie Colts.

On tonight's episode: Some much-needed nostalgia.

For moviegoers of a certain age, Youngblood was a cult classic — a 1980s hockey drama, filmed in Toronto, starring Rob Lowe, Patrick Swayze and rookie actor Keanu Reeves. 

Four decades later, the movie is getting a modern-day reboot, with some of the on-ice filming done at Sadlon Arena in Barrie.

SEE: Barrie Colts fans help bring 'very authentic' vibe to Youngblood remake

BarrieToday reporter Nikki Cole joins us tonight with all the details. You can read her coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on 'Closer Look': An increasing number of Ontario landlords are using N12s to evict longtime tenants, arguing they need the unit for personal use. But not every property owner is being honest.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: How a Toronto woman won a major victory against her landlord.

Victoria MacDonald has lived in the same two-bedroom Toronto apartment for nearly half a century. But two summers ago, she was suddenly slapped with an N12, a process that permits a landlord to evict a tenant if the owner, a family member or a caregiver needs to move in.

MacDonald didn't pack up. Instead, the 74-year-old fought back — discovering that an increasing number of landlords are using N12s to evict longtime tenants who pay modest rents. (Her lawyer said he has seen a "meteroic rise" in the use of N12s since the pandemic.)

Earlier this month, the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) decided in MacDonald's favour, ruling she can stay in her apartment indefinitely.

SEE: Tribunal rules longtime tenant can stay in her home, dismissing landlord's personal-use eviction attempt

TorontoToday reporter Gabe Oatley joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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'Perfect storm': A new survey found an alarming number of Canadians are depending on medical misinformation online because they don't have a family doctor.

As Ontarians prepare to head to the polls on Feb. 27, the province's doctor shortage is one of the most pressing issues of the campaign.

Each of the major party leaders has promised to solve the problem over the next four years — in their own way.

In the meantime, more and more Canadians who don't have a family physician are turning to the Internet for medical advice.

A recently released survey by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and Abacus Data found that 37 per cent of respondents used medical advice they found online because they couldn’t access a doctor or a medical professional for help.

Even more concerning, 23 per cent of those surveyed said following health advice they found online resulted in a bad reaction or had a negative impact on their health.

Dr. Joss Reimer, president of the CMA, talked about the survey results during a recent appearance on our Inside the Village podcast.

“I can’t really think of any other generation that’s had this double whammy where they’re being bombarded with misinformation that’s being forced at them through algorithms on social media — whether they’re looking for it or not — and also having this lack of access to care," she said.

“If you can’t have a doctor that you can have that trusted relationship with and ask your health questions to, you’re going to go online," she continued. "We worry about what they find when they’re online. Do they know how to find good sources of information, and what do they do when they see information that may or may not be true? How do they evaluate that?”

You can watch the full episode HERE.

​Hosted by Scott Sexsmith and Michael Friscolanti, the Editor-in-Chief of Village Media, Inside the Village is a news and current affairs podcast that provides a weekly window into some of the best local journalism from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. Produced by Derek Turner, the program also explores bigger-picture issues that impact people across the province.

Every episode can be found HERE. If you prefer the audio version, it is available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.

Have something to say? You can reach us at itv@villagemedia.ca.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. Tonight: the growing problem of prank 911 callers sending cops to fake emergencies.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering. These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: A surge in "swatting" calls.

Police forces across the province are dealing with a concerning trend: hoax 911 calls that dispatch heavily armed officers to a fake emergency.

Known as "swatting," the prank usually involves reports of extremely serious crimes, including bomb threats, murders and hostage situations.

SEE: 'I thought it was a joke': Cambridge family falls victim to swatting calls

How prevalent is the problem? In Cambridge, one woman has been on the receiving end of a swat call twice in the past two months. 

"I heard a very loud banging on the front door, loud enough to almost kick the door in," the woman said. "I went out and I was surrounded by a S.W.A.T. team with all of their rifles and guns pointed at me."

CambridgeToday reporter Matt Betts joins us tonight with all the details. You can read his coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

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Tonight on Village Media's 'Closer Look': After months of debate, a Northern Ontario town is spending $10,000 to save an iconic lumberjack statue from getting the axe.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore a compelling story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Iconic lumberjack avoids the chopping block.

For countless travellers along Highway 11, "Guy-Paul Treefall" has been a longtime landmark. But now in desperate need of some fixing, the statue left the Town of Iroquois Falls in a tough spot: Repair, relocate or replace?

This week, local councillors made a decision: the well-known statue will be repaired and relocated, at an approximate cost of $10,000.

SEE: Iconic Highway 11 statue spared the axe

TimminsToday reporter Marissa Lentz-McGrath has been covering the story and joins us tonight with the latest details. You can read her latest coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

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In this new feature, Village Media journalists break down an important story making headlines around the province. On tonight's episode: Sentencing day for a shocking crime.

Every weeknight, Village Media’s Scott Sexsmith sits down with one of our journalists to explore an important story they are covering.

These conversations go beyond the headlines, helping viewers better understand how we gather the details that land in your local news feed.

On tonight's episode: Sentencing day for a 'cold, callous' killer.

James Schwalm was convinced he could pull it off. The now-disgraced fire captain truly believed he could murder his wife, Ashley, and make it look like she died in a terrible car crash.

Police in Collingwood quickly discovered the truth.

This week, Schwalm was handed his sentence: life behind bars with no chance of parole for 20 years. Inside the Barrie courtroom, Ashley's loved ones cried tears of relief.

SEE: Ex-firefighter sentenced to life without parole for at least 20 years in wife's murder

Ashley's murder shocked the community of Collingwood and generated headlines across the country. BarrieToday court reporter Peter Robinson has been covering the story and joins us tonight with the latest details.

You can read his previous coverage HERE.

Stay tuned for more episodes of ‘Closer Look’ every weeknight at 7 p.m. ​You can find all our previous segments HERE.

Want to see more video features from Village Media? Subscribe to our YouTube channel.