Peterborough Player/Coach Helps Bring Awareness and Pioneer Women's Lacrosse For France

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France Lacrosse is putting a bigger stamp on the map thanks to Peterborough’s Lou Warner, who has helped make that mark since May of 2023.

Warner (left) coaching France goaltender Chelsea Breault (right) during warm-ups before a game at the North American Invitational (LAXNAI) at the Utica University Nexus Center in downtown Utica, N.Y. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

She began working with France Lacrosse after her husband, Justin Warner— who is also a lacrosse coach — referred her during his job search with the club when he learned they needed someone to help build the women’s program.

“There was a posting (from France Lacrosse) looking for help; he applied for that, and a week later, he got an interview with our vice president, Dylan,” explained Lou. “He mentioned that I have been playing lacrosse for 20 years and am fluent in French. They flew us to France next week.”

Although she has no biological connection to France, Warner is fluent in French, having grown up in an immersion program throughout school and studied it at Laurentian University in Sudbury.

Warner has worked in multiple roles as a coach for France Lacrosse. She has served as an assistant coach for the men’s and women’s sixes teams.

She recently head-coached the women’s team for box lacrosse when they made their debut at the North American Invitational (LAXNAI) in Utica, N.Y. France had a hot start, winning its first two games against the Valkyries and Poland Heritage. They finished 3-2 and fell short of a bronze medal, losing 3-1 to Poland Heritage in a rematch.

“I thought they (France) did fantastic. I wanted to get that France jersey out there,” explained Warner. “I wanted people to be aware of our program.”

Lou (second from left) with Team France after placing fourth in the LAXNAI 2026 Women’s Division. Photo courtesy of Lou Warner.

Lou was no stranger to LAXNAI as she won the inaugural women’s tournament in 2023 for the Toronto-based BP Lawyers team as their goaltender alongside other Peterborough natives including Erica Evans and Payton Crough. While BP Lawyers did not register a team in this year’s tournament, it gave Lou the opportunity to focus on raising awareness for the French women’s national team at LAXNAI.

“Typically, the BP Lawyers put in a team and this year they did not,” she said. “If they had, I probably would have played and coached. My priority would be coaching because I’m trying to build this program.”

Erica Evans (left), Lou Warner (middle) and Payton Crough (right) celebrating the first-ever LAXNAI Women's tournament championship held in 2023. photo By David Tuan Bui.

With LAXNAI 2026 in the books, Lou has to look ahead to the future for France Lacrosse.

“When I started, we only just started the national team. We had a new president, and he's been amazing at growing it domestically, so he's been great in helping us. We brought LAXNAI to the men’s championship,” she explained. “This year, I’m trying to mirror that with the women’s. We’ll be back in January for the Traditions Cup. We’re going to see if She-Box in January and I’m an assistant coach for the women’s sixes team. I’ll also be working on recruiting as well.”

Lacrosse’s motto throughout social media has been, ‘Grow the Game.’ Lou’s efforts mirror that and aim to keep putting France on a global stage.

“I’ve been playing this game since I was eight and that was the Ontario Lacrosse Association’s mantra was to ‘Grow the Game.’” she said. “That was always in the back of my head. I didn’t know that when I was 10 years old that it would lead to this. Now, my goal is to make Worlds in 2028.”

Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre's Annual 'Take Back the Night' Awareness Event Runs On Sept. 17

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Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) and partnering community organizations will host their annual Take Back the Night (TBTN) advocacy and awareness event at the Peterborough Square Courtyard on Sept. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

This year’s event theme is ‘Our Voices, Our Strength, Our Community.’ According to KSAC, it serves as a reminder to uplift survivors' voices and to remind survivors of the strength and control they have in their lives.

The event is free and open to everyone, with light refreshments available for participants.

The event will run from 5 pm to 6:30 p.m. with a variety of community agencies tabling to share information about their resources and how folks can connect for support. Art supplies are also available for attendees to make posters for the march later in the evening.

From 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. KSAC is hosting its evening of poems, speakers and performers, followed by our candle-lit solidarity march.

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Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre Appoints New Executive Director

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The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre (KSAC) Board of Directors has appointed Melinda Wall as the organization’s new Executive Director.

Melinda Wall, during her tenure as the Peterborough Regional Centre PRHC director of mental health services in 2021. LinkedIn.

Wall is a registered nurse and senior health-care leader with over 20 years of experience across clinical practice, health-care administration and executive leadership. Her career has spanned acute care, mental health and addictions, community health, and population-based initiatives focused on social determinants of health and health equity.

Wall has held progressive leadership roles in hospitals and community organizations, including 10 years as a senior leader at Peterborough Regional Health Centre and most recently, as Vice President at Durham Community Health Centre, where she oversaw integrated care, strategic operations and interdisciplinary teams supporting equity-based populations.

“Melinda’s work is grounded in a commitment to equitable, person-centred care and strengthening the conditions in which individuals and communities can thrive,” said Kerianne Sidler, KSAC Board Chair. “She brings extensive experience in governance, organizational performance, workforce planning, and cross-sector collaboration, and is known for fostering transparent, respectful, and values-driven work environments.”

The Peterborough native has completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Trent University, following two years of study in Women’s Studies and Indigenous Studies—a foundation that has deeply influenced her approach to health care and community engagement.

“I entered the nursing profession with a goal of working in women’s counselling, specifically with women who have been subjected to sexual assault or abuse,” said Wall. “When the KSAC Executive Director position became available, it felt like the right time to fully realize that vision.”

Wall assumes the role with the departure of Brittany McMillan, former executive director and Lindsay Haacke, who held the title in an interim capacity.

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YWCA's Walk a Mile In Their Shoes Event Raises Over $38,000 to Support Those Who Experienced Gender-Based Violence

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To maintain support for victims of gender-based violence, the YWCA’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event raised $38,341.71.

Men and Women participated in the downtown walk on Friday Afternoon. Several men sported red high heels in solidarity for the cause. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“This is more than we ever could have hoped for and we are beyond grateful to all who helped make this possible,” said Sarah Perkins, YWCA philanthropy communications coordinator.

Groups or individuals could sign up and raise funds for the YWCA prior to the march. The funding supports the YWCA’s Journey of Care which covers its signature programs and services offered.

“(It covers) The shelter —which is open 24 hours a day, — supportive counselling, transitional housing support, our family court support program and a hub on Mondays that a lot of organizations participate in,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.

Roughly 70 people joined in the downtown march on Friday afternoon. It started at Confederation Square and circuited back after turning onto King and Water Street.

@ptbo_canada The YWCA’s Walk a Mile in Their Shoes event raised $38,341.71 to support its programs for those who have experienced gender-based violence. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #women ♬ Strong Woman Stand Up - Chris B Harris & Jasmine T Harris & Daniel Kenneth Solovitz

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PHOTOS: YWCA's Walk a Mile In Their Shoes Event Marches Through Downtown For Awareness For Gender-Based Violence

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To raise awareness and funds for gender-based violence, the YWCA held its annual Walk a Mile in Their Shoes and marched through Downtown Peterborough on Friday afternoon.

Roughly 70 people joined in the downtown march. It started at Confederation Square and circuited back after turning onto King and Water Street.

“It takes a community to end violence against women; it takes all of us,” said Kim Dolan, YWCA executive director.

Groups or individuals could sign up and raise funds for the YWCA prior to the march. While a final tally has yet to be released, the top team had raised over $4,400, while the top individual had raised just under $1,700 at the time of publication. The funding supports the YWCA’s Journey of Care which covers its signature programs and services offered.

“(it covers) The shelter —which is open 24 hours a day, — supportive counselling, transitional housing support, our family court support program and a hub on Mondays that a lot of organizations participate in,” said Dolan.

While most of the march was composed of women, several men were part of the downtown walk, sporting red high heels in solidarity with the cause.

“The men who are here today are representative of a larger group of men who understand that violence against women are happening and largely men who are responsible for that violence,” explained Dolan.

Donations are currently being accepted and can be made online.

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Seven Ladies Honoured at the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber's Luminary Awards For Women In Business

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Seven women in business had the spotlight during the Peterborough and Kawartha Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Luminary Awards at Trent University’s Great Hall on Thursday afternoon.

The Awards celebrated women who reflect the diversity and strength of women in business throughout Peterborough and the area, according to Susan Dunkley, Luminary Committee Chair and Chamber Board Chair.

“The Luminaries are about shining a light on the women who are not only building businesses but shaping our communities and redefining what leadership looks like,” she said. “Their courage, vision and generosity create ripple effects far beyond their own success. When we celebrate women in business, we don’t just recognize achievement; we ignite possibility for others.

The following are this year’s recipients:

  • One to Watch: Michelle Nguyen (New Canadians Centre)

  • Emerging Entrepreneur: Chasley Keepfer (Cheeky Duck Vineyard)

  • Trailblazer: Leanne Crump (Kawrtha Family Health Clinic)

  • Barrier Buster: Ashley Flynn (Blackrock Developments)

  • Community Catalyst: Lois Tuffin (Volunteer Peterborough)

  • Legacy: Dr. Jenny Ingram (Kawartha Centre – Redefining Healthy Aging)

“To be chosen as the recipient of the Legacy award this year just made my day and it’s wonderful,” said Ingram.

@ptbo_canada Seven women were honoured at the Peterborough & Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Luminary Awards for women in business! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #women ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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City of Peterborough Honours Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women With Ceremony On Red Dress Day

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The City of Peterborough hosted a ceremony to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People (MMIWG2S) at City Hall on Tuesday morning.

Singing and drumming were performed as the red flag was raised at City Hall to mark Red Dress Day. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Commonly known as Red Dress Day, May 5 is held annually and acknowledges missing or murdered Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people, recognizing the disproportionately high rates of violence the Indigenous community faces. 

The ceremony had speeches, drumming and a smudging ceremony.

“This day is an important opportunity for our community to come together in remembrance, reflection and solidarity,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “We honour the lives of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People, and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of violence and injustice faced by Indigenous communities. I encourage residents to join us at City Hall for this meaningful ceremony as we listen, learn and stand together in support of truth, healing and reconciliation.”

Red dresses are hung in the windows of City Hall until Friday. 

Kelli Marshall of Hiawatha First Nation performs a jingle dress dance (also known as the healing dance) during the Red Dress Day ceremony at Peterborough City Hall. The dance is meant to cure sickness and bestow positive energy to those around the dancer. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The red dresses displayed in the windows of City Hall are a powerful symbol of the Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirited people who are missing or who have been taken too soon,” said Shelley Knott, City of Peterborough Indigenous Advisor. “They also represent the families and loved ones who continue to carry grief while searching for truth and justice. We invite the community to reflect on their meaning and join us in showing support, solidarity and a shared commitment to ending violence.”

The Urban Indigenous Working Group hosted additional activities in Confederation Square after the ceremony.

@ptbo_canada The City of Peterborough hosted a ceremony is to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People on Red Dress Day. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #indigenous ♬ original sound PTBOCanada

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PHOTOS: The Tiffany Show's International Women's Day Party

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Host of The Tiffany Show Tiffany Arcari hosted her third annual International Women’s Day Party on Sunday; celebrating local women, uplifting their stories and collecting menstrual products for the Period Promise initiative.

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Celebrate International Women’s Day in the City of Peterborough

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City of Peterborough residents are invited to an event to recognize and celebrate International Women’s Day at City Hall on March 7.

Photo by david tuan bui.

International Women’s Day, which is held annually on March 8, is dedicated to acknowledging the achievements, contributions and leadership of women and girls. 

Mayor Jeff Leal has issued a proclamation in support of International Women’s Day.  

“International Women's Day is a day to celebrate achievements, leadership and resilience of women and girls in our community and around the world. It is an opportunity to recognize the countless ways women contribute to our families, workplaces and neighbourhoods, often while overcoming barriers and inequities,” Mayor Jeff Leal said. 

The day begins with a rally and march that begins at City Hall (500 George St. N.) at 11:30 a.m.  

City Councillor Joy Lachica will read the International Women’s Day proclamation. The rally will also include drumming from the group Naandewegaan (Healing with Drums) and a poem from Peterborough’s Poet Laureate, Ziysah.  

The rally will be followed by a march downtown with an afternoon of activities in Friends of the Library Community Room at the Peterborough Public Library (345 Aylmer St. N.) Events include music, light refreshments and a discussion with Kat Owens from the Women’s Legal Education and Action Fund.  

The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre, the Kawartha World Issues Centre and the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton have also organized events on March 7.

All events are free to attend, though registration for the events at the library is encouraged. Registration can be done online.

"This day invites us to reflect on the work that remains to advance fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity for all. By marking International Women’s Day, we reaffirm the importance of recognizing women’s contributions, amplifying their voices and continuing efforts toward a more equitable future for current and future generations,” said City Councillor Joy Lachica. 

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Rebecca van Staalduinen Named Head Coach of Excalibur Women’s Volleyball 

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Director of Athletics and Recreation at Trent University Nathan McFadden announced the appointment of Rebecca van Staalduinen as the new head coach of the Excalibur women's volleyball program. 

Photo courtesy of trent university.

A longtime member of the program, van Staalduinen becomes the first female head coach in the history of Trent women's volleyball. Van Staalduinen '10 (Champlain College) brings more than a decade of experience with the Excalibur to her new role. After completing 10 seasons as associate coach, she begins her 11th season with the program as head coach.

A graduate of Trent's Biology program with a specialization in Health Sciences, she has been a dedicated contributor to Excalibur volleyball both on the court as a student-athlete, and on the sidelines as a coach. 

"Rebecca's commitment to Trent women's volleyball and her passion for our student-athletes and their holistic development make her an outstanding choice to lead our women's program," said McFadden. "Her experience as both a student-athlete and coach at Trent gives her a deep understanding of our values and how we want to continue to build a successful program." 

Van Staalduinen first joined the Excalibur coaching staff during the 2014–15 season and has played a key role in the program's growth and development ever since. 

"I've been part of this program since 2010; as a student-athlete, an alum, and an assistant coach, and it has shaped who I am," said van Staalduinen. "I'm honoured to now step into the role of Head Coach, building on the strong foundation Colin has established over the past three seasons while continuing to move the program forward. This program means a great deal to me, and I'm excited about the future and the opportunity to continue growing it alongside our student-athletes and staff." 

Prior to her coaching career, van Staalduinen enjoyed a decorated playing career. She competed for one season at Fleming College, where she earned National Scholar recognition, before continuing her career with the Excalibur at Trent. During her four seasons as a student-athlete, she was named an Ontario Colleges Athletic Association First Team All-Star twice and a Second Team All-Star once. She helped lead Trent to an OCAA bronze medal in the 2013 to 2014 season and was named an OCAA Championship All-Star. Van Staalduinen was also a two-time team MVP and represented the program at the OCAA All-Star Game on three occasions. 

Her development as a coach has also included national-level training opportunities. In 2022 to 20223, van Staalduinen was selected to participate in the U SPORTS Female Apprentice Coach Program, an initiative designed to increase the number of women in coaching roles across Canadian universities by pairing developing coaches with experienced mentors.

As part of the transition, former head coach Colin Walker will remain with the program in a mentorship and senior advisory capacity with the women's team while continuing in his role as head coach of the men's volleyball program.

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