Peterborough DBIA Making Downtown Spooky With Its Annual 'Halloween in the Booro' On Oct. 24.

Downtown Peterborough is getting spooky again, as the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) invites families to bring their costumes and grab their trick-or-treat bags for the annual ‘Halloween in the Booro’ on Oct. 24 from 4 to 6 p.m.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

Over 50 local businesses throughout Downtown Peterborough and East City will welcome trick-or-treaters with decorated storefronts, treats and Halloween surprises. Costumed characters will roam George Street and surrounding blocks, while the Family Fun Zone will offer a Halloween-themed photo opportunity and costume contests for kids, adults and pets.

New this year after trick-or-treating is a free screening of Goosebumps at the Quaker Foods City Square at 6:30 p.m. This movie will be cancelled if it rains.

“Halloween in the Booro has grown into a real downtown tradition for local families, and we’re excited to keep building on it,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA executive director. “There’s something so special about seeing so many local businesses, families and community partners all get involved. Adding a movie this year extends the celebration beyond trick-or-treating and gives families one more reason to make a night of it downtown.”

World’s Finest Chocolate is helping bring Halloween treats to participating businesses throughout the event.

“Chocolate has a special way of bringing people together,” says Jennifer King, World’s Finest Chocolate’s director of Canadian sales. “We’re proud to support Halloween in the Booro and celebrate the local schools, teams and community groups that use fundraising to make great things happen all year long.”

Families can plan their Halloween in the Booro route using the official event map, available at theboro.ca and on Instagram and Facebook at @theboroptbo. The map identifies participating businesses, accessible entrances and family-friendly stops.

Halloween in the Booro is free and open to the public.

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Peterborough Visitor Centre Shifting to Shoulder Season Hours

After a successful first summer season, the Peterborough Visitor Centre at the Lift Lock will shift to shoulder-season hours beginning Oct. 13 after Thanksgiving and the end of the Trent-Severn Waterway navigation season, announced on Monday.

Since opening under City operation in late June, the Visitor Centre has welcomed more than 10,000 visitors and provided trip-planning assistance and information about area attractions, experiences, and dining. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Located at 353 Hunter St. E., the Peterborough Visitor Centre will be open Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Oct. 16 to May 14. It will be closed on statutory holidays until Victoria Day.

The weekend schedule will continue to provide travel planning support for visitors and locals planning weekend getaways, sports tournaments, and other community events.

The Visitor Centre is expected to return to a seven-days-a-week service schedule once the Trent-Severn Waterway re-opens for navigation next year. Daily hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May 15 to Oct. 15.

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With New Faces Leading the Charge, United Way Announces Goal to Raise $1.585 Million For 2026 Campaign

Under new leadership, United Way of Peterborough & District unveiled its 2026 campaign goal of $1.585 million, announced at the Healthy Planet Arena on Thursday afternoon.

United Way supports a network of 20 local partner agencies that work across a range of community needs, from housing and homelessness to food security, youth and family support, mental health, community connection, and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The 85th Community Campaign for United Way’s goal is a slight decrease from last year’s $1.6 million

Tiffany Arcari, Community Manager at Gauvreau Accounting & Tax Law, is chairing the campaign. She says it encourages individuals, workplaces and organizations across the region to find their own way to contribute to the community.

“We’re all carrying something, and sometimes a little kindness, a little support, or someone showing up can make a world of difference. And our community is facing some very real social challenges right now. The United Way is already doing the work to help address those challenges, and if we want to see change in our community, this is one of the most meaningful ways we can be part of it,” said Arcari. “That’s what I want to see this year... in our community, in our workplaces, and in our businesses. More people feeling connected to the campaign, more workplaces finding their own way to get involved, and all of us coming together to reach that $1.58 million goal. Because when we look out for each other, we don’t just raise money. We help build the kind of community we want to live in.”

This is the first campaign under new United Way CEO Jason Seguya. He joined United Way Peterborough & District earlier this summer after former CEO Jim Russell retired after a 15-year tenure.

“A campaign goal gives us a number to reach. Our neighbours, and our collective care for the future gives us a reason to reach it,” said Seguya. “While I hold the privilege of leading this organization, it belongs to this community and every person in this room has a part in this future.”

New this year is United Way’s launch of its Certified Neighbour clothing collection.

The collection shows your community spirit while helping spread the message that everyone has a role to play in building a stronger Peterborough and District.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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. 

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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.

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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.”

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