Generative AI and Intellectual Property: Navigating the Risks
2026-01-20 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Toronto)
Featured Speakers
Tony Orsi, patent agent and principal with Smart & Biggar LP. Tony assists clients with evaluating new technologies, pursuing patent protection globally, and providing strategic IP management services. He works in various technology areas including electrical, biomedical, ﬁntech, AI, software, cleantech, and mechanical innovations. Tony also has practical experience working with ASICs as well as signal and image processing. Tony advises, mentors and speaks on IP for several organizations including the Spark Centre, Invest Nova Scotia, the Northern Ontario angels, and several universities.

Gurbir Sidhu, computer science engineer turned lawyer, with experience in assisting technology companies to develop, position, and monetize their IP assets. He has extensive experience in patent prosecution, IP due diligence, licensing, transactions, and IP analytics, with a focus on the engineering and high-tech sectors. His areas of expertise include software, artificial intelligence, CGI and animation, robotics, AR/VR technologies, FinTech, and aerospace. Outside of work, Gurbir is an Adjunct Professor at Conestoga College, where he enjoys teaching business and IP law.

What we’ll cover

The role of AI in ideation and design and how it impacts ownership and originality.

Key risks for patents, copyright, trade secrets, and trademarks when AI is part of the process.

Practical strategies for documenting human contributions, safeguarding. confidential information, and ensuring compliance

Emerging legal frameworks and what they mean for your IP strategy.

Participants will leave with actionable insights to use AI responsibly and maintain strong IP protection in an evolving legal landscape.

Click here to view full details and reserve your spot:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/generative-ai-and-intellectual-property-navigating-the-risks-tickets-1977623060811

How Lakes Work Episode 1 - Dr. Sapna Sharma and Dr. Neil Hutchinson
2026-01-20 19:00 - 20:00
Dr. Sapna Sharma, York University presents: “On thin ice: are lakes feeling the heat?”
Our planet is experiencing accelerated climate warming, with dramatic consequences not only on lake ecology, but also on the ecosystem services we rely on from our freshwater resources. Lakes with seasonal ice cover, which represent more than half of the world’s lakes, are especially sensitive to a changing climate. Mitigation of greenhouse gases is essential to preserving this ecological, cultural, and economically important resource.
Dr. Neil Hutchinson, Friends of the Muskoka Watershed presents: “The things we can’t see – lake physics”
While most of us are fascinated by the variety and abundance of the life in a lake, or by how our favourite lakes may change over the seasons, our appreciation of how the lake works to support that life is gained when we understand how physical processes, driven by reactions at the molecular level, are responsible for the behaviour and ultimately the ecology of our temperate lakes.

Watch the webinar trailer!

VIRTUAL Township of Muskoka Lakes Info Session | Non-Waterfront Zoning By-law Updates
2026-01-26 18:00 - 19:00
Have thoughts on how non-waterfront areas in Muskoka Lakes should be used and developed? We want to hear from you!
As part of the Comprehensive Zoning By-law Update, the Township of Muskoka Lakes is hosting an in-person Information Session to talk about proposed changes to the zoning by-law in regards to non-waterfront areas in Muskoka Lakes.
Date: Monday, January 26, 2026 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: VIRTUAL https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87180989548?pwd=[REDACTED]
—
What to expect:
• The session will begin with a short presentation to walk you through the key zoning topics for consideration• Table group discussions on questions posed by the team• During the table group discussions members of Township staff and the consultants are available to answer questions and discuss any aspect of the key issues being considered.• Light snacks and refreshments will be provided
—
How to prepare:
Before attending, we encourage you to review the Consultation Guide to explore the options being considered (found on the project page linked below). We also welcome your thoughts on other non-waterfront related zoning issues not identified in the Consultation Guide.
Your feedback will help shape the future of zoning regulations in Muskoka Lakes Urban and Rural communities.
—
No registration required – all are welcome. A recording of the presentation will be made available on the Engage Muskoka Lakes project page following the session.
—
View more details on the project page here: https://engagemuskokalakes.ca/comprehensive-zoning-by-law…
—
Can’t make it in person?
There are other ways to participate, including one-on-one phone conversations and an online survey. Check it out here:
Comprehensive Zoning By-Law Update | Engage Muskoka Lakes

How Lakes Work Episode 2 – Gord Miller and Dr. Norman Yan
2026-01-27 19:00 - 20:00
Gord Miller, Earthwatch presents: “The Littoral zone – lots of action at the lake’s rim”
The presentation will introduce the audience to the concept of the littoral zone of lakes by focusing on four questions. What are the parts of the littoral zone? How does it function ecologically? How important is it to the whole lake ecosystem? Participants will be exposed to a new lexicon of terms and concepts that will inform them of the dynamics of how lakes work.
Dr. Norman Yan, York University and Friends of the Muskoka Watershed presents: “For the love of Daphnia: How tiny creatures make our lakes work”
There are 1000’s of species that inhabit the offshore waters of Muskoka lakes. While almost all are invisibly small, they are vital to the health of our lakes. Norman will introduce you to one of them, the water flea Daphnia, sharing Daphnia’s story to help you understand the importance of protecting even the tiny creatures in our lakes.

Ask An Expert with Muskoka Small Business Centre & District of Muskoka
2026-01-28 09:30 - 12:30 | The District Municipality Of Muskoka, 70 Pine Street, Bracebridge, Ontario, P1L 1N3, Canada
Welcome to Ask An Expert!
Come join us at The District Municipality Of Muskoka on January 28, 2025 at 9:30 AM for a morning filled with learning, networking, and knowledge sharing.
Our event will feature industry professionals ready to answer all your burning questions and provide valuable insights. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and network with like-minded individuals!
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at Ask An Expert. Mark your calendars, plan your questions and get ready for an enriching experience!
As always, we never want finances to be a barrier to learning. We want you to know that we have a ‘scholarship’ pool and are always happy to arrange for you to attend the event for free. Just call 705-646-9021 or email admin@muskokasmallbusiness.ca to arrange for a free ticket.
We can’t wait to see you there!

Muskoka Bay Resort Presents: Revive & Thrive Jan 30-Feb 1
2026-01-30 08:00 - 17:00 | Muskoka Bay Resort, 1217 N Muldrew Lake Rd, Gravenhurst
Slow down. Laugh a little louder. Unwind together. Don’t miss this unforgettable girlfriends weekend

Trivia Night at the Bala Legion
2026-01-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Bala Legion, 1011 Maple Ave, Bala, ON P0C 1A0

Camp Crossroads Registration opens!
2026-02-02 07:00 - 17:00 | Camp Crossroads, 1224 East Bay Road, Torrance, Ontario, P0C 1M0, Canada
Set your alarms, overnight camp registration opens February 2 @ 7am.

The Inside Track: How to get more from your Chamber Membership
2026-02-03 12:00 - 13:00 | Muskoka Lakes Chamber of Commerce, 3125 Muskoka Rad 169, Unit 3, Bala, Ontario, P0C 1A0, Canada
Welcome to the Chamber community! The Inside Track is your introduction to Muskoka’s business network. Come meet your Chamber team and learn tips to get the best value out of your membership!

Get an insider’s look at what’s available to promote your business, save money, provide benefits to your staff, and make the connections that you need to grow your business and your career.

This is a great event for:

those wanting a ‘refresher’
your new employees
all new members
those thinking of joining

When? The first Tuesday of every month | 12pm-1pm
Where? Chamber Office (3125 Muskoka Rd 169, Unit 2, Bala)
Please email Andi at andi@muskokalakeschamber.ca to RSVP

How Lakes Work Episode 3 – Dr. Andrew Paterson and Christopher Stock (TEHONATÁHNHEN)
2026-02-03 19:30 - 20:00
Dr. Andrew Paterson: Department of Biology, Queen’s University presents: “When lakes fall ill: A review of current threats to lake health in Ontario”
Across the globe, inland lakes are being altered by climate change, pollutants, landscape degradation, and the introduction of non-native species. In a review of the latest science, this presentation will explore current threats to lake health in Ontario, and how these threats may interact to impact aquatic ecosystems. Where possible, it will also discuss the steps we can take to help protect these sensitive ecosystems for future generations.
Christopher Stock (TEHONATÁHNHEN) presents: “She is resting” Winter and the important role of ice
The Earth goes through its natural rhythm and cycle to reset the balance and the natural order of things. Winter — the time of rest. Our mother Earth is covered with a warm blanket of snow allowing her to sleep and rest up before Spring. Christopher discusses the role of responsibility, stewardship and of a reciprocity relationship with all of Creation in order to foster balance and Harmony for all.

RLC Student for a Day
2026-02-06 08:00 - 17:00 | Rosseau Lake College, 1967 Bright St, Rosseau, P0C1J0
Save the date!
Student for a Day is happening at RLC on Friday, February 6th, 2026.

A full day on campus, real classes, real students, and a real taste of what life at Rosseau Lake College is all about.

Sign up here:
https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSc8OOi…/formResponse

YMCA Camp Pine Crest: Winter Women’s Weekend
2026-02-06 08:00 - 17:00 | YMCA Camp Pine Crest, 1090 Gullwing Lake Road, Torrance, Ontario, P0C 1M0, Canada
Need a weekend away with your best girlfriends? Join us at YMCA Camp Pine Crest for Winter Women’s Weekend!

We have activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow tubing, broomball and much more. You can choose to participate in staff led activities or just relax and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery at Pine Crest.

Feb 6th-8th

Register now: https://www.ymcagta.org/activity/91201

Meet the New Doctor in Port Carling
2026-02-06 15:00 - 17:00 | Port Carling Health Hub, 147 Medora Street, Port Carling, Ontario, P0B1J0, Canada
Muskoka Lakes is hosting a small community event on Friday, Feb. 6 at 3 p.m. to officially welcome Dr. Brenda Martin at the health hub!
The event, will be held indoors, will include brief remarks from Martin and Mayor Peter Kelley, followed by a tour of the facility.

Muskoka Wedding Show 2026
2026-02-07 09:00 - 16:00 | Muskoka Discovery Centre, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Gravenhurst, Ontario, P1P 1Z9, Canada
Discover top wedding vendors, trends, and inspo at the fun in-person Muskoka Wedding Show 2026!

Trails For Life Hospital Foundations Fundraiser
2026-02-07 12:00 - 15:00
This winter, we’re coming together for the Trails For Life Hospital Foundations Fundraiser, taking place Saturday, February 7, at the Port Sydney Community Centre from 12 – 3 pm.

This family-friendly event brings the community together for a winter day in support of local hospital care, featuring free BBQ catered by Smokin’ Hot BBQ, skating, face painting, live music, treats, and special guests.

There is no cost to attend, but donations are gratefully accepted! Proceeds raised will be shared 50/50 between the South Muskoka and Huntsville Hospital Foundations.

Donations can be made at www.tinyurl.com/trailsforlife.

To assist with planning for food and refreshments, we kindly ask that you RSVP using this form:
https://forms.gle/SyJr5UaykVvwZtXP6

Live Music at Clear Lake Brewery
2026-02-07 19:00 - 22:00 | Clear Lake Brewing Co, 4651 Southwood Rd, Torrance, Ontario, P0C 1M0, Canada
Make sure to stop by and see the amazing artists that are performing here this month! Every Friday and Saturday from 7-10

Lunch & Learn Series Session 1: The AI-Ready CEO
2026-02-11 12:00 - 12:45
Register for Free here: Lunch & Learn Series Session 1: The AI-Ready CEO Tickets, Wed, Feb 11, 2026 at 12:00 PM | Eventbrite

Get leadership clarity before you invest in AI

Most business owners are rushing to adopt AI tools before they’ve aligned them with their own leadership strategy. That’s backwards.
This session helps you set your direction, create simple AI guardrails, and build a CEO Partner prompt you can reuse for real decisions
What We’ll Cover

How your leadership lens shapes your AI outcomes and custom solutions
What you need to know
Where most CEOs go wrong with tech adoption
Why “structure first, then AI” matters now more than ever

What You’ll Get

A guided leadership self-audit (pre-session)
Your first CEO Master Prompt to steer strategic use of AI
A no-fluff, high-impact Quickstart Toolkit for immediate action
Option to submit your prompt for 1:1 expert feedback

Who It’s For

Business owners ready to stop winging it with AI
CEOs and Founders who want clarity before chaos
Leaders exploring growth, transition, or digital modernization

About Sara
AI Strategist,
Small Business Growth Advisor and former Business Broker.
Sara is a strategic AI partner who listens first, then helps small business owners and leaders to build a clear AI Action plan with tools they can use confidently.

Paint Your Partner- Port Carling Library
2026-02-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Muskoka Lakes Library Port Carling, 69 Joseph Street, Port Carling, P0B1Jo, Canada
Come to the Port Carling branch on Thursday February 12th from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for an entertaining experience. Bring a partner (or a friend) to this fun paint night here in the library. Why not make it a date night, for Valentine’s Day!? No experience necessary, … whatsoever! All materials provided.
Please register for this event by calling 705-765-5650 or emailing info@mlpl.ca.

Valentine's Day at The Rosseau | Two Can Dine
2026-02-13 | Windemere House, 2508 Windermere Rd, Windemere, Ontario, P0B 1P0, Canada
Valentine’s Day at The Rosseau 💕 🍽 Two Can Dine | $199 ✨ 3-Course Prix Fixe Menu 📅 February 13–15 🌊 Lakeview dining on Lake Rosseau
Reserve your spot today on OpenTable!
Turn dinner into a getaway — inquire about guestroom rates ✨

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WITH “COLDPLAY BY CANDLELITE”
2026-02-14 19:30 | JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, 1050 Paignton House Rd, Minett
This Valentine’s Day, indulge in a serene and luxurious experience at JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka, where glowing lights, live music, and Muskoka’s natural beauty come together to create a truly unforgettable night. Surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles, this romantic tribute performance – presented by Live Inc. – reimagines iconic songs through piano, strings, and heartfelt vocals — designed to be felt deeply, not just heard. Each note drifts gently through the room, creating a warm, emotional atmosphere perfect for sharing with someone special.
This incredible concert will take you on the Adventure Of A Lifetime, with not just a Sky Full Of Stars, but a room full of candlelite and spectacular live music, too! Get ready to hear all your favourites—from Viva La Vida and Hymn For The Weekend, to Yellow, The Scientist, and many more—performed live, by candlelite. So, make sure you book your tickets faster than the Speed Of Sound and join us for this phenomenal live show, guaranteed to Fix You.
“At JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka, we love to incorporate music into our experiences because it has the power to inspire, connect, and create moments of pure presence. Music encourages relaxation, sparks joy, and fosters emotional wellbeing — all of which align beautifully with our commitment to mindfulness. Events like ‘Coldplay by Candlelite’ allow guests to slow down, savor the moment, and immerse themselves in an atmosphere that nurtures both the body and the soul,” says Didier Dolivet, Managing Director, JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa & Live Inc.
Event Details:
• Date: Saturday, February 14, 2026
• Time: 7:30 pm onwards
• Venue: The Rosseau Ballroom, JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka
• Experience: Live String Quartet and Vocalists performing Coldplay classics in a candlelit setting
• Early Bird Price: $59.99 (available until January 15, 2026)
• Overnight stay package: Starting at $667++ in a Studio guestroom with One King or Two Queen beds. Includes one-night stay on Saturday, February 14 and two tickets to the show.
Reserve Your Spot:
Book now via Eventbrite to secure your tickets and make this Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable.

Valentine's Day at Rawley Resort
2026-02-14 17:00 - 22:00 | Rawley Resort, 2900 Kellys Rd, Severn, Ontario, L0K 1S0, Canada
This Valentine’s Day, escape together

Treat your Valentine to a romantic Rawley Resort getaway—featuring luxurious suites, indulgent spa packages for two, and our Saturday-only Valentine’s menu for a truly unforgettable evening.

Romance looks better at Rawley Resort.

Call 705-538-2272 to book your stay today.

Bala legion Concerts Presents Tres Hombres
2026-02-14 19:30 - 22:00 | Bala Legion, 1011 Maple Ave, Bala, ON P0C 1A0
Don’t forget our next great show! This will be fun! If you are a fan of ZZTop you’ll love Tres Hombres. There’s some tickets available and tickets bought for the original Dec date will be honoured on Feb 14. Bring your sweetie! It is Valentine’s Day
Get your tickets here: Bala legion Concerts Presents Tres Hombres Tickets, Sat, Feb 14, 2026 at 7:30 PM | Eventbrite

Pancake Lunch
2026-02-17 12:00 - 13:00 | Knox Presbyterian Church, 93 Joseph Street, Port Carling, ON, P0B1J0, Canada
Join us on Tuesday, February 17 for Pancake Lunch @ Noon

Rsvp: hopeandhospitalitykpc@gmail.com

Intro to Yoga
2026-02-19 18:00 - 18:45 | Muskoka Lakes Library Port Carling, 69 Joseph Street, Port Carling, P0B1Jo, Canada
We are now offering 2 yoga sessions a month here at the Port Carling branch with Candice!

Thursday 6pm-6:45pm: Feb 19th
Saturday 1pm-2pm: Feb 28th

Be sure to pre-register as spaces are limited! (phone: 705-765-5650 or email info@mlpl.ca)
BYO mat or borrow one of ours.

The Wizard of Oz with Theatre Muskoka
2026-02-19 19:30 - 22:00 | Theatre Muskoka, 100 Clearbrook Trail, Bracebridge, Ontario, P1L 0A3, Canada
The Emerald City Awaits!
Follow the yellow brick road this February as The Wizard of Oz comes to life on our stage! Rehearsals are buzzing, the magic is building, and tickets are flying like broomsticks!
This beloved classic is packed with adventure, heart, unforgettable characters, and a little bit of magic for all ages. Whether it’s your first trip to Oz or a return visit, this production promises community, joy, and pure theatrical wonder.
✨Show dates:
February 19: 7:30PM (Opening Night Red Carpet Event- no extra charge!)
February 20: 7:30PM
February 21: 2:30PM
February 22: 2:30PM
February 26: 7:30PM
February 27: 7:30PM
​February 28: 2:30PM
Tickets $35+fees. Groups of 10 or more receive 10% off with code GROUP10.
🎟️ Tickets are moving fast- don’t wait!
Grab yours now and join us over the rainbow.

Port Carling Winterfest Feb 20-22
2026-02-20 - 2026-02-22
Join us again for the Port Carling Lions Winterfest!
February 20-22, 2026. New dates this year after Family Day weekend.

Bala Legion Friday Dinner Series
2026-02-20 17:00 - 19:00 | Bala Legion, 1011 Maple Ave, Bala, ON P0C 1A0
Additional Dates:
February

6th – Old Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie with Crusty Top
20th – Chicken Parmesan – A Taste Of Italy
27th – Julia Child’s Beef Stroganoff

Smart Moves Brunch: Downsizing, Investing, & Enjoying Retirement
2026-02-25 09:30 - 12:00 | The Alexander Muskoka Residence, 520 Isaac Street, Gravenhurst, Ontario, P1P 0H9, Canada
FREE DOWNSIZING BRUNCH & EXPERT PANEL

Smart Steps Brunch: Downsizing, Investing, & Enjoying Retirement
Join us for a complimentary brunch and an easy-to-follow expert panel designed for seniors and homeowners who are thinking about downsizing, moving closer to family, or exploring adult community living.
We’ll cover the most common questions we hear, including:

What to consider before you sell (timing, market conditions, next steps)
Taxes and planning considerations when selling a home
Ways to use home equity to support your lifestyle or help family live closer
Options for investing proceeds from a sale
Adult community living at The Alexander (with an optional tour)

Seats are limited to 30. Registration is required.
If the event fills up, you can join the waitlist and we’ll contact you if a seat opens.

Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund Information Session
2026-02-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Bracebridge Library, 34 Salmon Ave, Bracebridge, Ontario, P1L 1C1, Canada
Join us on Thursday, February 26th, from 12pm-1pm at the Bracebridge Library for an informative Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund Information Session. It is free to attend, but please RSVP. More details in the link below.
Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund Lunch & Learn – Invite.social

Movie & Pizza Night-Thursdays-Port Carling Library
2026-02-26 17:00 - 18:30 | Muskoka Lakes Library Port Carling, 69 Joseph Street, Port Carling, P0B1Jo, Canada
Come to our Port Carling branch once a month on a Thursday evening to enjoy pizza and a movie on us! Come solo, bring a friend, or even the whole family! Arrive by 5:00, bring along your own beverage and any extra snacks you might require. Pizza will be provided. Expect the film to begin at 5:05.
Please register for this event by calling 705-765-5650 or emailing info@mlpl.ca.
