On Thursday, June 20, Bay of Quinte MPP Todd Smith was sworn in as Ontario's new Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. Here, he poses with Lt.-Gov. Elizabeth Dowdeswell and Premier Doug Ford during the swearing-in ceremony. Smith said he's eager to jump into his new portfolio and consult with stakeholders. For more, see News Releases.

My wife Tawnya was at the Tim Hortons on Dundas Street in Belleville this morning volunteering for the annual Camp Day campaign. All proceeds from coffee sales today at Tim Hortons restaurants in the Quinte region and across Canada and the United States help send kids from disadvantaged backgrounds to camp. You can also buy bracelets or make donations to support the initiative.

I was pleased to be at the Studio Theatre in Wellington on Friday to announce 2019 funding for three local performing arts festivals. The Festival Players of Prince Edward County will receive $56,750, the Prince Edward County Chamber Music Festival will receive $10,000 and Comedy Country will receive $4,533.

Pictured with me are (bottom row, from left) Prince Edward County Chamber Music Festival board members Kathie Oliver, David Oliver, and chair Maureen Dunn, Festival Players managing director and producer Paul Flicker and associate producer Brianna Gorsline, and (at back) Prince Edward County Mayor Steve Ferguson.