Nominations For Rotary Club of Peterborough's 2026 Paul Harris Fellowship Ends Tuesday

Nominations for the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Recognition for 2026 in honour of the founder of Rotary International in 1905 end this Tuesday.

The 2025 Paul Harris Fellow Recognition recipients.

(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.

According to Rotary, the Fellowship recognizes local individuals for their leadership and service contributions within our community, the surrounding area and the world at large. It is considered the highest honour Rotarians can give.

Nominations in the following categories can be submitted online. Nominees may be Rotarians or non-Rotarians. On behalf of each recipient, both Rotary Clubs will donate $1,000 USD to the Rotary International Foundation.

Categories include:

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

• International Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant contribution toward to betterment of the communities in other parts of the world, and/or leadership toward work peace and understanding. 

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

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

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

• Club Service: To recognize a Peterborough Rotary Club member for their outstanding service and dedication. 

The Rotary Club of Peterborough and Rotary Club of Peterborough Kawartha are celebrating the recipients at a joint Paul Harris Fellow Recognition Dinner on Nov. 26 at 6 p.m. at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Community Builder Tiffany Arcari Named Chair For United Way's 85th Community Campaign

The role of United Way Peterborough & District’s Chair of the Community Campaign Cabinet for 2026 became even more fabulous and vibrant with the appointment of Tiffany Arcari, announced on Wednesday.

Tiffany Arcari (middle), making her grand entrance after being named the new Community Campaign Chair for 2026. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

A longtime Peterborough resident since 2004 and a community builder, Arcari is known as an emcee for multiple community events and for shining the spotlight on the city’s notable residents through her social media platforms and talk show, The Tiffany Show.

She joked and thought United Way was kidding when the idea was first introduced to her as chairing this year’s campaign but immediately agreed to lead the non-profit organization.

“But then immediately, honestly… Honoured and excited because I know the United Way has been in our community making changes for so many years,” she explained. “I knew that I wanted to step in, I wanted to help and it honestly fuelled that fire in my belly that always gets me to take action and do something. I understand the United Way and their work actually changes and improves things for the community.”

Arcari first became involved with United Way as a judge for the Ultimate Burger Battle, a fundraising event introduced last fall. She also hosted a donation drive for United Way's Period Promise initiative at her International Women's Day event, collecting nearly 10,000 items and contributing them.

She currently serves as the Community Manager at Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory, where she leads community initiatives and manages entrepreneurs within the firm. Arcari founded the annual ‘The Tiffany Show’s International Women’s Day Party,’ which celebrates and supports women in the community. Last year, she was recognized with the Luminary Award for Emerging Entrepreneur.

As Chair, Arcari’s duties include leading a team of over 20 volunteers to orchestrate fundraising efforts, strengthen donor engagement and host inclusive community events during United Way’s 85th campaign.

“The reason I believe so fiercely in this campaign is because... People matter,” she said. “Behind every statistic is a neighbour, a family, a story. For 85 years, United Way has brought our community together to make sure people don't have to face challenges alone and I am honoured to help carry that mission forward as Chair this year.”

@ptbo_canada The role of United Way Peterborough & District Chair of the Community Campaign Cabinet for 2026 became even more fabulous and vibrant with the appointment of Tiffany Arcari. #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #unitedway ♬ bounce (i just wanna dance) - фрози & joyful

Arcari resided in Hamilton before moving to Bancroft, then eventually Peterborough, in her mid-to-late teenage years in the mid-2000s. She sought help from the United Way when she moved to Peterborough and giving back as Chair comes full circle for her.

“It's so remarkably important to me,” said Arcari. “Reciprocity breeds reciprocity and kindness breeds kindness and vulnerability fosters connection. I know these things to be true from when I was a little girl.”

Arcari succeeds journalist Paul Relliger, who held the role last year.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough Names New Interim Executive Director

The Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough (DSP) has appointed Laura Geffert as Interim Executive Director.

LinkedIN.

Geffert has a background in clinical social work and community leadership.

She currently serves as Clinical Team Lead at CCRC and is also a sessional instructor in the Department of Social Work at Trent University. She brings a personal connection to DSP with a child who has Down syndrome.

“I am honoured to step into this role at such an important moment for the DSP,” said Geffert. “This organization represents something deeply personal to me the belief that every person deserves to belong, to be seen, and to be supported. I look forward to walking alongside our members, families, and community partners as we build on the DSP's legacy and write its next chapter together.”

“Laura brings both professional and lived experience to this role. The Board is confident she will provide thoughtful leadership as the DSP continues to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families while helping guide the organization through this transition and into its next chapter" said Travis Doak, DSP Board Chair.

This follows the departure of Vanessa Bruce, the former executive director who left the role on June 26 after a three-year tenure to become a service delivery manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Rotary Club of Peterborough's Sees New President Take the Reins For 2026-27

The Rotary Club of Peterborough is changing hands in leadership, as Tony Grady hands the presidential reins to Moe Grant for the 2026-27 year.

Moe Grant, Rotary Club of Peterborouhg President (left) getting the passing of the torch in a Blues Brothers style with then-outgoing and past president Tony Grady (right) during their Rotary Changeover Meeting. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Grant began his role as president on Wednesday. He has also served the same role with Trenton in 2006 with Edna Norris.

Outside of Rotary, Moe had a 44-year career with the Bank of Montreal before retirement.

The following is the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 2026-27 Board of Directors:

• President – Moe Grant

• Past President – Tony Grady

• President-Elect (2027-2028) – Kelli Grady

• Treasurer – Wayne Harding

• Secretary – Joe Kapron

• Sergeant-at-Arms – Nick Avolinitis

• Fundraising – Myrlene Sundberg

• Club Service & International Service – Bruce Gravel

• Public Image – Catherine Hanrahan

• Community Service – Laurie Heigh

• New Generations/Youth – Mary Anne Greco

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Riverview Park and Zoo Train Open After Completion of Track Work

After a delay due to track work, the Miniature Train at the Riverview Park and Zoo is open for the season.

The 1860 locomotive replica is located at the south end of the Zoo under the Sabre jet. File Photo.

Weather permitting, the train is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through to the end of the Labour Day long weekend in September.

The train track is over two kilometers and the ride is approximately ten minutes long. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Former Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough Executive Director Joins Big Brothers Big Sisters As Service Delivery Manager

Vanessa Bruce, the former Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough executive director, has been announced as the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough Service Delivery Manager.

Photo courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters Peterborough.

According to Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Bruce oversees mentoring program delivery, supports volunteer and youth matches and helps expand the agency's capacity to serve more young people through the power of mentorship. 

“I’m incredibly excited to be joining Big Brothers Big sisters of Peterborough and to continue doing meaningful work centered around community, connection and creating positive opportunities for young people and families. I look forward to being part of an organization that plays such a valuable role in the lives of so many.” said Bruce. 

“This is a significant step forward for our agency,"“ said Zoe King, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough executive director. “Vanessa's leadership, expertise, and commitment to supporting youth make her an exceptional addition to our team.”

Bruce became the executive director in February of 2023 and held the position for over three years, with her last day on Friday.

Bruce was a Fleming College graduate and has previously worked in child care with organizations such as the YMCA and Compass Early Learning & Care.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Renewed Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock Opens Its Doors This Friday

The renewed Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock is up and running and ready to open its doors to the public starting Friday.

Chad Bucker, Parks Canada Manager Canal Operations (left0 With Mayor Jeff Leal (right) commemorating the opening of the new Visitor Centre with a ceremonial key. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The Centre is operated by Peterborough Tourism and the City of Peterborough’s tourism services and destination marketing program. The City’s Visitor Centre is an information hub where visitors and locals can access information about attractions, experiences and local businesses in Peterborough.

“Today marks a new beginning for one of Peterborough’s most iconic spaces,” said Mayor Jeff Leal.” We are excited to open the doors of the Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock and work to revitalize the space to incorporate  diverse perspectives of the shared cultures and histories of the community.”

@ptbo_canada The new Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock is now open all year around for visitors to explore local experiences along the waterway and beyond. #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #peterboroughontario ♬ Sunrise - Official Sound Studio

Located at 353 Hunter St. E. at the base of the Lift Lock, the Visitor Centre can welcome travellers arriving by boat, car, bike or on foot.

“I am delighted on behalf of the federal government to share responsibility for this gem in the heart of the riding of Peterborough,” said Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP. "The Lift Lock represents some of the best of our past, but also our goals for the future. I know that the City of Peterborough will be the best custodians of this historical landmark for our community and all that visit our beautiful home.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Community Care Peterborough’s Apsley Office Relocates to Burleigh Street On July 27

To increase accessibility, Community Care Peterborough’s (CCP) Apsley location is moving to 91 Burleigh St. as of July 27.

Photo courtresy of Community Care Peterborough.

“Our team of volunteers and I are excited to move into this bright, beautiful, and renovated house, just down the street from our previous location. We look forward to a very welcoming and accessible space for our clients, volunteers, and the community,” said Katie Bryck, Apsley Community Development Coordinator.

The moving dates are July 23 and 24. The service office will remain operational (via phone only) during these moving dates. The office phone number remains the same (705-656-4589).

The thrift store will be closed to the public from July 20 to 24, and plans to reopen on July 27 at the new location.

CCP is planning a special grand opening celebration for August.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Pathway of Fame Announces Its Inductees For 2026

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough & District has announced its class of 2026 Inductees to be honoured at Showplace Performance Centre on Sept. 15.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The Heritage Trio is performing prior to the induction ceremony. The event is open to the general public, as well as to families, friends and supporters of the inductees. Admission is free and reservations are not required.

The following are this year’s inductees and their biographies:

Dr. Kim Curtin (Community Builder)

In response to a 2008 request from Queen’s University, Dr. Kim Curtin developed a two-year Family Medicine Residency Program in Peterborough that today stands as a model of success, with more than 60 percent of its graduates practicing family medicine in Peterborough city and county, most of those contributing to health care at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and still others very instrumental in the provision of services to the community’s most vulnerable.

Alec Denys (Community Builder)

A five-time Paralympian in archery and a world record holder, Alec Denys’ resilience and determination following a devastating spinal cord injury saw him dedicate his life wholly to the benefit of others, as evidenced by his many years as a peer mentor and support leader with Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, and leadership roles with the Douro-Dummer Seniors Club and the Active Together Program facilitated by Peterborough’s Council for Persons with Disabilities.

Keith Dalton/Elaine Orgill (Community Builder)

Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes (PATH) owes much of its success to the volunteer contributions and strongly beating social hearts of Keith Dalton and Elaine Orgill, their contributions ranging from Elaine’s organizing of, and participation in, fundraising events for the organization to Keith’s service as a member of PATH’s Land Acquisition Group and as a project manager.

Rob Rusland (Community Samaritan)

Building on the legacy of his father who founded Rusland’s Auctions in 1972, Rob Rusland’s has voluntarily conducted thousands of fundraising charity auctions, with the list of grateful beneficiaries near endless and the proceeds in the millions of dollars. In addition, his volunteer work has elicited a number of awards, including Rotary recognition as a Paul Harris

Fellow and the Schofield Award of Community Distinction from the United Way.

Marion Griffin (Dramatic Arts)

President and chair of the Peterborough Theatre Guild for six years, Marion Griffin’s contributions to the community theatre troupe over five decades range from set painting and stage managing to producing and directing. An accomplished pianist and organist, Griffin sings with, and conducts, four community choirs, and, since retiring 10 years ago, has still found the time to tutor students.

Wayne Robinson (Entertainment)

Singer, actor, producer, arranger…Wayne Robinson’s contributions to Peterborough’s cultural landscape number many, with the success of several Peterborough Theatre Guild musicals traced to his involvement both onstage and off. Over six years, he sang a number of songs in each of the popular Spring Tonic shows at Showplace, performed with the Kawartha Jazz Ensemble, has headlined a number of benefits, and is today active with The Peterborough Singers.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough Executive Director Steps Down From Role

Vanessa Bruce, Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough executive director, has announced that she is stepping down from the role with June 26 as her last official day.

LinkedIn.

“Serving this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said Bruce. “Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work alongside extraordinary individuals, families, staff, board members and community partners who have continuously inspired me with their resilience, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to inclusion. The work we have done together will always hold a special place in my heart, and leaving is not without a great deal of emotion and gratitude.”

Bruce became the executive director in February of 2023 and held the position for over three years. She leaves the Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough to become a service delivery manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough.

“I look forward to beginning this next chapter with an organization that is equally committed to strengthening community, supporting young people, and creating meaningful connections that change lives,” said Bruce.

The outgoing executive director was a Fleming College graduate and has previously worked in child care with organizations such as the YMCA and Compass Early Learning & Care, according to Bruce’s LinkedIn page.

Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough is sharing information regarding the transitional process and future plans in the coming days.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.