February 12, 2026

MAPLE LEAF HANGS ITS HEAD IN SADNESS, MOURNING 8 VICTIMS IN TUMBLER RIDGE

BRACEBRIDGE — Canada stands on guard for Tumbler Ridge, B.C.

Like many towns, cities, provinces and the country flag are standing at half staff.

In Bracebridge today it was the same.

Almost anywhere where yesterday the red and white maple leaf flew proudly on a typically Canadian winter day, Thursday our flag was one for all.

“True patriortic love …” became out symbol of sadness.

Nowhere more so than at elementary, secondary and post secondary schools here and around the Heart of Muskoka. Heartfelt gestures.

From the roundabout on Taylor Road in Bracebridge the town wore its heart on its sleeve. An unmistakeable reminder and shows of public support for fellow Canadians half a country away. But still in our thoughts and prayers. PHOTOS Mark Clairmont MuskokaTODAY.com

From the roundabout on Taylor Road and just down Cedar Lane at St. Dominic’s Catholic high school and the nearby OPP detachment, flags either flapped in the wind at time or hung like heads bowing in memory of those who killed in B.C. Tuesday.

Sadly symbolic of what everyone was thinking, feeling and trying to understand in Canada.

On the other side of town, on Wellington Street, it was the same.

Georgian College had its own school flag, the Ontario ensign and the country’s flag glistening off and on in the sun this afternoon.

Less than a kilometre away, at Monck Public School, it was the same as the sun was setting 48 hours later and parents were picking up their kids after classes.

Taking them home to be with family, have dinner and tuck them into bed.

Just another after school routine.

Like yesterday and tomorrow.

But is it? Will it be the same?

Not likely — for a long, long time.

If ever.