Metroland North Media, a division of Metroland Publishing, is pleased to announce the appointment of Leigh Gate as the general manager of Orillia Today.

Gate is also the general manager of the Midland Mirror, the sister paper to Orillia Today.

“I am excited to be a part of the Orillia Today team, working together with the community, our readers and clients,” said Gate.

“Orillia Today is a fantastic community newspaper, and having worked on a few projects in the Orillia area over the years, I am really looking forward to meeting members of the community.  
“I am delighted to be working directly with Ellen Cohen in her new role, and continuing to build our strength in community leadership and support,” added Gate.

After four years at the helm as General Manager of Orillia Today, Cohen has moved into semi-retirement.

Cohen is delighted to turn over the general manager reins to Gate.

“Leigh is perfect for Orillia Today,” she said.

Cohen has not, however, left the newspaper.

In her new role with Orillia Today, Cohen will continue to represent the newspaper and will work in a community-relations capacity.

“Leigh has been with the Metroland organization for over 11 years and is currently the general manager at our sister newspaper, The Midland Mirror.

“In his dual role, adding Orillia Today to his portfolio, I know he will bring his enthusiasm and incredible sense of community to Orillia.

“He is a bright, conscientious person, with a wonderful sense of humour. It will be a privilege to work with Leigh in my new capacity as he moves the newspaper forward to new heights.”

In her new role, Cohen will be representing Orillia Today on a wide variety of boards and associations as well as continuing her work, among other events, with the Blues Festival, the Orillia Beatles Celebration, the local Jazz & Blues Festival, and the Orillia Perch Festival.

She is involved in a number of local associations and currently sits on several boards, including the Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce, the Orillia Community Foundation, and the Community in Motion Cabinet.