Peterborough Mourns Passing of Former City Councillor Ann Farquharson at 68

Former Peterborough City Councillor and local volunteer Ann Farquharson has passed away at 68 years of age.

Photo courtesy of Highland Park Funeral Centre.

She passed away peacefully in her home while sleeping on Monday.

Farquharson earned her B.A. (Hons.) from Trent University in 1981 and her L.L.B. from the University of British Columbia in 1984. She was called to the Bar of British Columbia in 1985 and to the Bar of the Law Society of Upper Canada in 1986. As a lawyer, she began practicing law in Peterborough in 1986 as a partner with Farquharson Daly (now known as Farquharson Law). She also acted as Human Rights Advisor at Trent University from 2000 to 2006.

The City of Peterborough flew the flag at half-mast in honour of Farquharson on Tuesday. She was a Town Ward Councillor who served on City Council from 2006 to 2010.

Mayor Jeff Leal released the following statement:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ann Farquharson, a former City Councillor and a dedicated advocate for our community. Ann served the people of Peterborough with integrity and an unwavering commitment to making life better for others. Her leadership, her thoughtful voice at the Council table, and her years of service left a meaningful and lasting impact on our city.

Beyond her time as an elected official, Ann was an active and passionate community supporter, always working to strengthen the places and organizations she cared about. She will be remembered for her generosity, her spirit, and her steadfast belief in building a stronger Peterborough.

On behalf of City Council and the residents of our community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Ann’s family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable life and contributions.”

As an avid volunteer, Farquharson served on more than 30 boards and committees, including:

• President, Peterborough Law Association

• Board member, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough (and a Big Sister for five years)

• Director, Five Counties Children’s Centre

• Provincial appointee to the Board of Governors, Peterborough Civic Hospital, where she chaired the Public Relations and Finance Committees

• Founding member, Women’s Health Care Centre

• Board member, C.H.A.N.G.E.S.

• Board member, Fourth Line Theatre Company

• President, Peterborough Chapter of the Trent Alumni Association

• Board member, Peterborough Theatre Guild, Festival of Lights (Musicfest), Fairhaven Foundation

• Member, Save the Market Hall Committee; Peterborough Youth Commission; Peterborough Centennial Celebration Committee

• Chair, Citizens Advisory Panel on Flood Planning

• Member, Veterans Wall of Honour Working Committee

• Sponsorship Chair, Peterborough Flood Relief Concert Committee

• Member of YMCA Fundraising Cabinet

• Member of Women United (United Way)

• Board member, Women’s Resources (current)

• United Way Cabinet member (current)

A Celebration of Life for Ann will be held at Market Hall this Saturday at 2 p.m. In place of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice are encouraged.

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough Name 2025 Paul Harris Fellowship Recipients

The Rotary Clubs of Peterborough and Peterborough-Kawartha recognized local community members for their leadership and service contributions with the Paul Harris Fellow Recognition, presented at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club on Thursday night.

(From left to right) (Back Row) Kelli Grady, Betty Halman-Plumley, Margaret Hamilton, Catherine Hanrahan, Wendy Swain, Elwood Jones, Don Watkins, Maureen Crowley, Mary Smith

(Front Row) Linda Calverley, Ashley Bonner, Lorne Hamilton, Marcus Ferguson, Steve Paul, Len Lifchus and Brendan Moher. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Named after Paul Harris, the Rotary International founder, the recognition is for locals who exemplify the Rotary motto of Service Above Self through their leadership and service contributions within our community, the surrounding area or the world at large.

”Presenting the Paul Harris recognition together allows our clubs to honour these recipients as part of a wider Rotary family,” said Tony Grady, Rotary Club of Peterborough president. “It reinforces that our achievements in service aren’t confined to individual clubs—they’re part of a larger, collective effort to create lasting change.

The following local community members were awarded Paul Harris Fellows:

Youth Services: To recognize an individual who makes significant contributions towards youth (programs, services and/or related matters).

• Linda Calverley: Having spent the past 25 years shaping the lives of girls through the Girl Guides of Canada. Linda has mentored girls from ages 9 to 17 across multiple units. She’s supported fellow leaders, organized camps and events, and inspired generations of girls to be confident, capable, and compassionate. Linda has lead adventure trips to Scotland and the UK, organizing national camps, and creating experiences that have broadened young minds and built lifelong friendships.

Community Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant leadership contribution to the advancement and betterment of the Peterborough Community.

• Ashley Bonner: As the founder of the East City Community Hub, a grassroots network that began by helping vulnerable neighbours with errands and groceries, Ashley has supported local businesses, organized neighbourhood events, and rallied volunteers in times of need. Her signature project the East City Neighbourhood Yard Sale, created in honour of her late mother, has grown to over 100 participating homes.

Community Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant leadership contribution to the advancement and betterment of the Peterborough Community.

• Lorne M. Hamilton: When the Kawartha Woodturners Guild lost their meeting space at St. Peter’s High School, Lorne reached out to potters, weavers, gourders, and other craftspeople, and together they formed what became The Artisan’s Centre Peterborough. With Lorne’s leadership, they found a home in Peterborough Square, a space that still buzzes today with creativity, learning, and community spirit. From children’s programs to accessible workstations for those in wheelchairs, Lorne’s vision has made art more inclusive and inspiring for everyone.

Vocational Service: To recognize an individual who uses their vocational skills consistent with Rotary ideals toward community and/or international matters.

• Marcus Ferguson: Through his work with YourTV, Marcus has become the unseen historian of Peterborough. From city council meetings and charity fundraisers to sporting events and Rotary gatherings, he’s been there with his video camera, capturing the people and moments that shape who we are. Comparable to the Trent Valley Archives or the Roy Studio Collection, one could say the digital video archive Marcus has built will hold that same importance, telling the story of our community.

Environmental Service: To recognize an individual who supports activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of our environment.

• Steve Paul: As the founder of Clean Up Peterborough, a small grassroots effort to keep our parks, trails, and neighbourhoods clean, Steve Paul has grown his endeavour into community-wide movement focused not just on picking up litter, but on rethinking how our city reduces waste, recycles, and reuses materials. Among his many initiatives is organizing the collection of used writing instruments and used pill bottles diverting hundreds of kilograms of plastic waste from our landfills.

Club Service for the Rotary Club of Peterborough: To recognize a member for their outstanding service and dedication, each Rotary Club will select a member from their respective Rotary Club to receive this prestigious recognition.

• Eric Steinmiller: As the co-chair of the club’s international service committee, Eric is a world traveller and a leader in developing and funding Rotary’s humanitarian projects in Nepal and Honduras.

Club Service the Rotary Club of Peterborough-Kawartha: To recognize a member for their outstanding service and dedication, each Rotary Club will select a member from their respective Rotary Club to receive this prestigious recognition.

• Len Lifchus: A dedicated Rotarian for over 26 years, Len has faithfully served his club in many capacities most notably serving as club Secretary, President, and leading the club’s major funding projects. He has also served on the boards of numerous not-for-profits in the community.

On behalf of each recipient, the Rotary Clubs of Peterborough and Peterborough-Kawartha said they will donate the equivalent of $1,000 USD to the Rotary International Foundation.

The Nine Ships 1825 Inc. project also received a certificate of appreciation for their work and the community engagement created, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Irish Emigration.

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Peterborough County Economic Development and Tourism Launch Kawarthas Holiday Digital Passport

Peterborough County Economic Development and Tourism has launched the second initiative in The Kawarthas Quest series: the Holiday Magic Digital Passport.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

According to the County, following the success of the Lakefield Scavenger Hunt, the first Quest, the Holiday Magic Digital Passport brings a festive new way for residents and visitors to enjoy the spirit of The Kawarthas while supporting the small businesses that shape our communities.

The event uses the Driftscape app (or mobile browser) to collect Holiday Magic Digital Passport rewards those who choose to shop across Peterborough County with points, ballots and the chance to win prizes throughout the season.

Shopping at participating businesses earns secret passwords to enter for points. For every 10 points, receive one ballot for the multiple weekly gift card draws and the grand prize.

A grand prize of $1,500 in gift cards is being drawn on Jan. 7. Points can be collected until Dec. 24, weekly draws start Nov. 24 and grand prize ballot submissions are on Dec. 31.

“There’s something truly special about holiday shopping in The Kawarthas - the decorated storefronts, familiar faces, and the joy of finding the perfect gift close to home,” said Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden. The Holiday Magic Digital Passport brings that experience to life, encouraging all of us to embrace the season, share time with loved ones, and support the local businesses that are the heartbeat of our communities.”

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Burnham Street In Lakefield Reopened; Kawartha Home Hardware Gets Temporary Location

The Township of Selwyn has reopened Burnham Street in Lakefield to traffic, following the community’s recovery from the Home Hardware fire.

pHOTO COURTESY OF kAWARTHA hOME hARDWARE.

This reopening, along with Queen Street and Burnham Street, grants full access through the Village’s downtown core. Pedestrian detours remain in place along the section of Queen and Burnham Streets immediately adjacent to the fire-affected site, where fencing will stay up until all site restoration activities are complete.

The Township is now working to reinstall two streetlight poles and fixtures that were removed for firefighter safety.

Home Hardware is opening a pop-up store downtown at 25 Queen St., according to a Facebook post on Tuesday. The store will have a paint department, their popular hardware essentials and seasonal merchandise. An opening date has not yet been announced.

“Lakefield’s heart is its people and its sense of community,” said Mayor Sherry Senis. “As we enter this special time of year, we hope everyone will come downtown, support local businesses, and take part in the many festive activities that showcase our Village’s spirit.”

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Photos: City of Peterborough Celebrates Veterans On 2025 Remembrance Day

The City of Peterborough and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 hosted hundreds of residents who paid their respects to war veterans during the Remembrance Day celebration at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Park on Tuesday morning.

All photos by David Tuan Bui.

The ceremonies featured a parade, addresses from dignitaries and veterans, prayer, two minutes of silence, hanging and poppies on wreaths and singing.

@ptbo_canada The City of Peterborough and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 hosted hundreds of residents who paid their respects to war veterans during the Remembrance Day celebration at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Park. #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #remembranceday ♬ Remembrance Day - Paris Street

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Bonnerworth Park Officially Open to the Public

The City of Peterborough celebrated the official grand opening of Bonnerworth Park on Saturday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The revitalization includes a new bike pump track, an expanded skatepark and 14 new pickleball courts, including two accessible courts.

“This revitalization brings fresh energy to Bonnerworth Park, creating a modern, inclusive space for a new generation,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “This is a park built for everyone, from skateboarders, cyclists and pickleball players to families who want to enjoy a sunny afternoon in Bonnerworth’s green space. Finished on time and on budget, Bonnerworth Park reflects Peterborough’s active spirit and will continue to be a place where people of all ages can come together.”

“Bonnerworth Park is a modern, accessible park marking a new and energetic chapter for recreation in Peterborough,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “The new amenities in this space are the result of collaboration with user groups, local organizations and the city. Together, we’ve created a welcoming, inclusive park that will serve residents for many years to come.”

A new shade shelter was constructed in the park after a $200,000 community investment from Hydro One through work on the Durham Kawartha Powerline project.

Other enhancements to the park include fresh sodding and a multipurpose trail linking all amenities. The park's perimeter is lined with 202 new trees.

Saturday’s opening celebration was followed by an afternoon of activities on the bike pump track, skatepark and pickleball courts, led by city staff and user groups.

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City Holding 2025 Remembrance Day Parade On Tuesday

The City of Peterborough is having its Remembrance Day parade and service at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Square on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until approximately 11:20 a.m. 

File photo.

Organized and hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52, Peterborough, everyone is welcome to participate to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served and continue to serve our country during times of war, military conflict and peace. 

Those participating in the parade should arrive at Confederation Square by 9:30 a.m. to sign a waiver and take part.   

Rolling road closures will be in place along the parade route from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for the Remembrance Day parade. Some Peterborough Transit routes may be affected during that period.  

The schedule is as follows:

10 a.m.  

• Parade departs Confederation Square, travelling south on George Street, east on Hunter Street, north on Water Street and west on McDonnel Street, where it returns to the Citizens' War Memorial at Confederation Square.

10:25 a.m.  

• Parade arrives at Citizens' War Memorial.

10:30 a.m.  

• O Canada, led by the Salvation Army Band and Peterborough Pop Ensemble, followed by the Prayer of Invocation  

• Hymn, O God, Our Help in Ages Past  

• Addresses: Mayor Jeff Leal, City of Peterborough and Robert Lloyd, President, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 52 

• Performance by the Children’s Montessori and Preparatory School Choir  

• Placing of the Wreaths  

• Hymn, O Valiant Hearts, Salvation Army Band  

• The Peacekeeper's Prayer  

11 a.m.  

• Last Post 

• Two minutes of silence  

• Lament  

• The Rouse 

• We Honour You, Peterborough Pop Ensemble with Steven Bark  

• Guest Speaker, John Andela  

• God Save the King led by the Salvation Army Band and Peterborough Pop Ensemble  

• Benediction  

• Children place poppies on wreaths  

• March off the colours  

Ladies Auxiliary to Branch 52 will serve an open-faced hot beef sandwich for $5.00 following the service at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52, 1550 Lansdowne St. W.  To purchase a wreath, contact the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 at 705-745-6361.

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Bonnerworth Park Opening Celebration Date Changed to Saturday

The official opening of the enhancements to Bonnerworth Park has been rescheduled from Thursday to Saturday at 1 p.m.

Photo bcourtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The celebration includes a new bike pump track, expanded skateboard park, pickleball courts and a shade structure.

The new official opening ceremony time will align with a weekend of activities in the park by user groups, including demonstrations on the bike pump track, pickleball courts, and skateboard park according to the City.

The opening ceremony was planned for Thursday but wet weather has slowed down the installation of sod.

Events are scheduled from Saturday through Monday.

Residents can take a free shuttle bus from City Hall to Bonnerworth Park on Saturday and Sunday. The bus will run continuously from City Hall to Bonnerworth Park from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  

Snacks and refreshments will be provided during weekend events.  

Schedule of weekend events:

Saturday

Bike Pump Track demonstrations, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with members of the Peterborough cycling community. This will also include a time-lapse event.  

Learn to play short mat bowling, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the McDonnel St. Community Centre. 

Sunday

Skateboard demonstrations hosted by members of the Peterborough skateboarding community, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. This event includes a Skate Jam and a Learn to Skate event highlighting the expanded skatepark’s new features.  

Learn to play pickleball, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Instruction and equipment will be provided.  

Monday

Learn to play/Try it Pickleball, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Instruction and equipment will be provided.  

Pop-up bike event, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. This event includes bicycle safety checks and cycling tips. 

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Burger Supremacy Runs In November For United Way's "Ultimate Burger Battle" Fundraiser

United Way Peterborough & District has kicked off its first-ever Ultimate Burger Battle where local restaurants and Burger Ambassadors gathered for a ‘First Bite’ preview of this delicious new fundraiser at its facility on Thursday morning.

The Ultimate Burger Battle has been tested to delicious success in other communities, with United Way Thunder Bay launching the original event six years ago. Since then, it has expanded into a national event organized by United Ways across Canada, serving more than 60,000 burgers nationwide last year alone. SCreenshot, Instagram.

The month-long Burger Battle is a new community fundraiser that was announced during United Way’s Campaign Launch in late September.

Eight local restaurants have crafted a burger to battle for the title of Peterborough and County’s Ultimate Burger of the Year. For every burger sold throughout November, two dollars will be donated to United Way Peterborough & District to support its programs and services. 

“We’re absolutely thrilled to bring the first-ever United Way Ultimate Burger Battle to Peterborough and District,” said Jim Russell, CEO of United Way Peterborough & District. “This campaign is a fun way to celebrate the creativity of our local restaurants while uniting the community around a shared cause. We’re especially proud to see participation from restaurants across both the City and County, a reflection of the wide reach and generosity of our region. Every Ultimate Burger sold helps build a stronger, more caring community, and I think that’s something we can all sink our teeth into.” 

The Ultimate Burger Battle has showcases creations such as fish patties to burgers stacked high with pickled jalapeño peppers.

Restaurants joining Peterborough & District United Way’s inaugural Ultimate Burger Battle include: 

• The Dirty Burger Company

• Double Dz's Diner

• Agave by Imperial

• The Vine

• The Loon Lakefield

• The Chemong Lodge

• Pizza Villa & Pasta House

• The Rink Tap & Grill

During November, a team of local Ultimate Burger Battle Ambassadors are tasting their way across Peterborough and the County, sharing their experiences, reviews, and behind-the-scenes peeks on social media.

This will help spotlight participating restaurants and encourage the community to join the fun by trying new burgers and voting for their favourites. Community members can get involved by voting online at uwpeterborough.ca for their favourite burger to help decide the People’s Choice Awards.

The Burger Ambassadors taking a bite include:

• Laura Montague, PTBO Eaters

• Dan O’Toole, BetRivers

• Neil Morton, Consultant/ Entrepreneur, 2017 United Way Peterborough & District Campaign Chair

• Tiffany Arcari, The Tiffany Show

• Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA

• Pete Dalliday, TV Voice of the Lakers & Petes

• Jason Wilkins, Muralist/ Illustrator

• Paul Rellinger, Journalist, 2025 United Way Campaign Chair 

“The Ultimate Burger Battle is a fantastic way to showcase the creativity and passion of our local restaurants,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area executive director. “It’s more than just a culinary challenge; it’s an opportunity to bring people together, celebrate local talent, and support a meaningful cause. I’m excited to see our community come out, enjoy some incredible food, and cheer on their favourite spots in the spirit of friendly competition.” 

“From the Adam Scott Cafeteria to Zeke’s — I’ve done the A-to-Z of Peterborough burgers,” said Pete Dalliday, Peterborough Lakers director of community engagement. “The Burger Battle just gives me another excuse to keep the streak going, support local spots, and have some fun for a great cause.” 

The Ultimate Burger Battle Passport is available to help track burger adventures, and anyone who tries five or more burgers will have the chance to become an Ultimate Burger Battle Ambassador for 2026.

Workplaces can also get in on the fun through ‘Ultimate Burger Battle @ Work,’ a team lunch initiative that lets staff order burgers together in support of United Way workplace campaigns. 

Proceeds support United Way Peterborough & District’s network of local agencies and initiatives working to address poverty and strengthen community well-being. 

The Ultimate Burger of the Year, People’s Choice Winners and Most Burgers Sold will be crowned in early December.

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Fleming College Launches 'Fleming Ignites Magazine' To Highlight Its Community and Creative Impact

The first issue of Fleming Ignites Magazine has been released, Fleming College’s new publication dedicated to celebrating its people, achievements and stories of its institution.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Available in both print and digital formats, Fleming Ignites Magazine marks a new chapter in how the College shares its story, honouring its roots while embracing fresh and engaging ways to spotlight the energy, innovation, and community spirit that define Fleming according to Chris Jardine, Fleming associate vice president of marketing and advancement.

“This publication gives us the opportunity to share the Fleming story with purpose and clarity,” he said. “It honours where we’ve been while also shining a light on where we’re headed.”

The inaugural issue features a behind-the-scenes look at Fleming’s Apply Yourself Here campaign, a spotlight on applied learning at the Centre for Innovative Aquaculture Production and inspiring stories of student success and award-winning projects. The magazine also shows how the College is helping to meet workforce demands in healthcare and skilled trades. They’ll discover how alumni are making an impact in their fields, explore how faculty are leading research with real-world applications, and celebrate three generations of creativity at the Haliburton School of Art & Design.

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