Donor Wall Design Unveiled For Rotary Club of Peterborough and Riverview Park & Zoo's Accessible Playground Project; First Major Donors Honoured

The Rotary Club of Peterborough and the Riverview Park & Zoo have unveiled a proposed design for the major donor recognition wall for the Rotary Accessible Playground, which was announced on Wednesday morning.

Rotarians, donors and zoo staff having a blast at the playground in the approximate area of where the accessible playground will be. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Several major donors were recognized at the event for their contributions towards the playground. The project costs $1.5 million and was first presented to the Rotary Club of Peterborough in 2024.

“Rotary is thrilled to take the lead in making this playground accessible because we believe everyone and every child deserves a place to play, learn, and grow – regardless of ability,” said Betty Halman-Plumley, then-president of Rotary. “This project reflects our commitment to inclusion, community service, and building spaces where everyone feels welcome. Together with the Riverview Park & Zoo, we are building more than just a play space – we’re building a stronger, more inclusive community for families to thrive.”

The Club pledged $500,000 and has raised over half of its total, with approximately $288,250 raised, according to Club president Tony Grady.

The following donors were recognized at the event:

Climber Level ($5,000)

• Grady’s Feet Essentials

• Darling Insurance

• AON Inc.

• Rotarians Jim Coyle and Wendy Hill

• BWXT

Activators ($10,000)

• Part Time CFO Services

The proposed donor wall for the accessible playground at Riverview Park & Zoo. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Special recognition went to Merrett Home Hardware for building materials donations, Rotarian Mike Evans and his family foundation pledged $40,000 and Paul Hickey announced a contribution of $50,000.

“Our family is honoured to pledge $40,000 in support of this project because we believe everyone - of all ages - should be included and able to enjoy this space within our community,” said Evans.

Barry Craft, representing the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough, is hosting the annual Father’s Day car show. The Kinsmen pledged to donate proceeds from their annual Father’s Day Car Show, $6000, to the project.

Last August, the Rotary Club of Peterborough and the Riverview Park & Zoo first unveiled their preliminary plans for a new, totally redesigned playground at the zoo which would be accessible to people of all ages and all abilities.

Upgrades include widened pathways between play areas for people using strollers and mobility devices, new surfaces throughout the playground to make getting around easier, and relaxing, shady spaces with great sightlines to make it more comfortable for visitors and their caregivers.

Mary Kate Whibbs, Zoo operations and support manager, has invited residents to learn about proposed upgrades to the accessible playground at Riverview Park & Zoo and provide feedback to help shape the project at a public drop-in session set to take place on Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Park & Zoo, Rotary Education Centre.

“The level of support we’ve seen so far has been incredibly motivating. It really speaks to the kind of community we have supporting this project, one that values inclusion, accessibility, and spaces where everyone feels welcome,” said Whibbs. “It’s been especially inspiring to see this project bring people together around a shared vision. That momentum is helping us move forward with confidence, and we’re excited to keep building on it as we work toward a space where every child and family can play, connect, and enjoy the playground together.”

@ptbo_canada The Rotary Club of Peterborough has unveiled its donor wall design for its accessible playground to be built at the Riverview Park & Zoo! #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #dailynews ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

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United Way Peterborough & District Marks the End of 2025 Fundraising Campaign After Raising Over 1.5 Million Dollars

United Way Peterborough & District has wrapped up another successful community fundraising campaign, marking the $1,560,075 achievement at its annual Campaign Celebration April 9.

The county of peterborough was awarded the “Making it Rain” award for delivering an increase in employee event donations. photo courtesy of the united way peterborough & District.

The organization brought together local partner agencies, workplaces and community members to unveil its 2025 fundraising total and recognize the collective effort behind a successful campaign. Held at the McDonnell Street Activity Centre, the evening offered an opportunity for peers and colleagues to reflect on their shared impact, celebrate achievements and honour outstanding contributions through awards.

Award recipients included the County of Peterborough, Trent Valley Learning Association, Tiffany Arcari, the John Howard Society of the Kawarthas, the City of Peterborough, the New Canadians Centre, Jeannine Taylor, the Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic School Board, Trent University and Laken MacFarlane.

“As I look back on my time with United Way, I am so overwhelmed with gratitude for the people who continue to show up each year for their community,” CEO Jim Russell shared. “It’s not our organization alone that makes this work possible, it’s a shared responsibility, brought to life by our dedicated partners and workplaces from across the region. This year especially was a true show of community spirit, with so many new partnerships forming and more people stepping forward to get involved whether it was events like Backpacks for Success, Period Promise, or the ever-popular Peterborough Performs championed by our incredible Campaign Chair Paul Rellinger.”

In coming months, United Way will usher in their 85th campaign year, continuing to build on community partnerships while welcoming new opportunities to create lasting change. Upcoming initiatives, including Day of Caring and Backpacks for Success, will return later this summer to support local needs. 

The team celebrates this year’s fundraising total of $1,560,075, representing a 3 per cent increase over last years campaign.

“As Campaign Chair I’ve had the honour of being a part of the United Way team, and let me tell you, fundraising is no easy task,” said Rellinger. “It really is nonstop all year long, trying to meet goal to ensure our Peterborough community is receiving the much-needed support that it deserves. Although, I am chair for only a year, I am a supporter of United Way Peterborough always.”

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Jack’s Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame 39th-Annual Golf Tournament Tees Off On May 21

The Jack’s 39th Annual Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame (PDSHOF) Golf Tournament is set to tee off on May 21 at the Quarry Golf Club, announced on Tuesday afternoon.

Doug Gibson, Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame Golf Tournament chairperson, is holding the Bob McGillan Scramble trophy to be presented to the top team of the event. The auction includes items such as an inflatable paddleboard, an autographed jersey of Tampa Bay Lightning forward Nikita Kucherov and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year, the tournament is hosting 240 golfers, with spots still available for registration. Entry includes refreshments, lunch, dinner and a live and silent auction.

The proceeds go towards the Hall of Fame’s operating fund and support its bursary for exemplary student-athletes who have just graduated high school and are planning to attend a post-secondary institute the following fall.

“Over the years with the success of the tournament, we've been able to increase our busaries — which we give out to the local high-school athletes — from $500, now we give four at $2,000,” said Doug Gibson, PDSHOF Golf Tournament chairperson.

@ptbo_canada The 39th-annual Jack’s Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame Golf Tournament has been launched with the event on May 21 at the Quarry Golf Club. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #sports ♬ Golf, fresh breeze, positive and strong(1437641) - SK MUSIC

The tournament is in honour of Doug’s father, Hall of Famer Jack Gibson, who was inducted in 1986 to the PDSHOF and had several roles and stints in the lacrosse and hockey world.

He managed the senior lacrosse team to a Mann Cup in 1966 and 1973. Jack helped organize a semi-pro league in 1968-69 and managed the team that won the championship that year.

Jack also managed the Maryland Arrows of the Pro Lacrosse League in 1974-75. The Hall of Famer also managed Canada’s Field Lacrosse team in the 1967 World Championships.

As the tournament enters its 39th year, Doug continues his father's legacy through the golf event.

“That's one of the reasons down here at the Hall, we put so much effort into our tournament each year,” he explained. “It's not only dad's legacy, it's Bob McGillian's who was the other co-founder of the tournament. We have a trophy in his honour now and it just keeps it going and keeps their memories alive.”

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Peterborough Humane Society and Five Counties Children’s Centre to Benefit From Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign

The Tim Hortons Smile Cookie Campaign returns from April 27 to May 3, with proceeds supporting the Peterborough Humane Society and Five Counties Children’s Centre.

photo courtesy of Five Counties Children’s Centre.

Area residents can purchase a Smile Cookie at any of the 18 participating Tim Hortons restaurants in Peterborough, Bridgenorth, Lakefield and Curve Lake. Bulk orders are also available by completing an order form and dropping it off at a local restaurant. Throughout the campaign, volunteers from the Peterborough Humane Society and Five Counties will be on site decorating cookies, greeting guests and thanking supporters.

“We are very grateful to the Tim Hortons locations in Peterborough and the surrounding area for selecting Five Counties and the Peterborough Humane Society as this year’s Smile Cookie beneficiaries,” says Scott Pepin, CEO of Five Counties Children’s Centre. “Support from this campaign will help ensure important services are available in our community at Five Counties to support children with physical, developmental and communication needs and at the Peterborough Humane Society to help animals in need of care in our community.”

All proceeds from Smile Cookie sales in Peterborough and the surrounding area will stay in local communities, supporting programs that promote health, wellness and compassionate care for children, youth and animals.

“We are incredibly grateful and excited to be included in this wonderful campaign alongside our friends at Five Counties.” says Shawn Morey, CEO of the Peterborough Humane Society. “By supporting this campaign, you are helping ensure animals that come into our care receive the support they need, while they wait to join their new forever homes, and supporting the great work that Five Counties does for children.”

Tim Hortons has been raising funds for local charities for over 25 years. Last year Tim Hortons restaurants across Canada raised $22.6 million for close to 700 local charities and community groups, contributing to the Smile Cookie legacy of over $151 million raised since the program’s inception.

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CMHA HKPR Launches Fourth-Annual 'Change the Cycle' Fundraiser For Mental Health Initiatives

Time to put the pedal to the metal for the Canadian Mental Health Association Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (CMHA HKPR) as they launched the fourth-annual 'Change the Cycle' fundraising event at Nicholls Oval on June 20.

Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education (left) and Ryan Waudby, Tom’s Heating & Cooling president (right), emulating the event's signature photo to mark the launch of the fourth-annual fundraiser. Since 2023, Change the Cycle has now raised over $100,000 for local mental health initiatives. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year, proceeds support CMHA HKPR's unfunded and non‑annualized mental health programs.

“Proceeds this year will be going towards unfunded mental health programs for the CMHA,” said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “(It’s) All the services that will best support those in the community that need it the most.”

@ptbo_canada The @CMHAHKPR has launched the fourth-annual “Change the Cycle” fundraiser happening Nune 20 at Nicholls Oval. #ptbocanada #journalism #fyp #news #mentalhealth ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

This year’s goal is to raise at least $25,000. Last year’s event raised $30,537.08; 2024 raised $25,500; and the inaugural event raised over $40,000, all totalling over $100,000 for mental health initiatives.

Cyclists can register for a 4k, 12k or 26k ride along the Rotary Trail in Peterborough. They can register online as individuals or teams. Registration is $20 per person, and children 12 and under can register for free. Registration includes the ride, a t-shirt and a BBQ lunch.

New this year is a theme song created by Lindsay-based grunge band, ‘Soup,’ to showcase their hit, ‘Let’s Go For a Ride.’ The band was formed by Lindsay resident Simon Ward, the founder of Strumbellas.

To become an event sponsor or volunteer, email Veitch at jveitch@cmhahkpr.ca.

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Community Care Peterborough's Fifth-Annual Gary Dalliday Memorial Tournament Hits the Links On Aug. 10

Registration for the fifth-annual Gary Dalliday Memorial charity golf tournament is open with the event set for Aug. 10 at the Peterborough Golf & Country Club in support of Community Care Peterborough.

Pete (left), Tim (middle) and Krista Dalliday (right) at the second-annual Gary Dalliday Memorial Tournament. Their father passed away in 2018. Photo by David Tuan bui.

All proceeds from this special event will support Community Care’s Meals on Wheels program, providing nourishment and connection for seniors and adults with disabilities in the City of Peterborough, West Selwyn Township, the Municipality of Trent Lakes and Curve Lake First Nation. Last year’s tournament raised $20,000.

The event is named after Gary 'The Diller’ Dalliday for his contributions to the Peterborough community. He was a CHEX-TV sportscaster, the radio voice of the Peterborough Petes and a longtime supporter of local sports. He was an avid volunteer with Community Care Peterborough and its Meals on Wheels program.

Gary’s grandson, Nick Bozec, inspired the event to honour his grandfather’s legacy.

“My father was involved with a number of community causes and Community Care’s Meals on Wheels program, in particular, was near and dear to his heart,” said Tim Dalliday. “My Dad would be very proud of the money we’re raising to help seniors stay in their own homes.”

“This tournament is a true reflection of Gary’s legacy of supporting our local community,” said Danielle Belair, CCP CEO. “The Dalliday family, our sponsors, and all the golfers are making a difference in the lives of seniors and adults living with disabilities. We are very grateful for their participation and generosity.”

The day begins with a BBQ lunch at 11:30 a.m. followed by a 1:00 p.m. shotgun start.

Participants will enjoy 18 holes of golf, a cart, two meals, prizes, and more—capped off with a dinner and awards ceremony. Golfers can register online.

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PTBO Women’s Initiative Network Inc Formed to Support Local Athletes Competing in Ireland

A new community-driven initiative, the PTBO Women’s Initiative Network Inc (PTBO WIN), has formed to support local athletes who have been selected to compete on the Canada 2 team at the 2026 Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) World Games in Waterford, Ireland this July.

photo courtesy of PTBO WIN.

Local athletes Zoe King, Ciara Gunn, Michelle Schevers and Tash Ennis, all members of the Peterborough GAA club, have been selected to compete on the Canada 2 team.

PTBO WIN originally came together to rally behind these athletes in their fundraising efforts. While the immediate focus is helping send the women to compete on the international stage, the network says they have a long-term vision of advocating for and supporting local women in pursuing their goals, whether in sport, business or beyond.

“What started as a couple of women meeting at a networking breakfast quickly turned into a dedicated group of women committed to supporting other women in the community,” said PTBO WIN President, Kelly Carbajal. “We recognized very quickly that there is a real need in the area for women pursuing their goals and dreams. Our hope is that the Ptbo Women’s Initiative Network can make a meaningful difference for these incredible athletes and for so many more women in the future.”

PTBO WIN aims to raise $20,000 to support these athletes and their journey to the World Games, including training, travel, and ongoing skill development by focusing on three main initiatives:

PTBO WIN Launch Food Festival

Date: June 6

Time: 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Location: Peterborough Square Outdoor Patio

This event will feature local food vendors, live music, shopping and an opportunity to meet the athletes and PTBO WIN members.

PTBO WIN 100 x 100 Campaign

Running now through July 1, PTBO WIN is calling on 100 community members or businesses to support local athletes by contributing $100 each, helping to directly fund their World Games journey.

PTBO WIN World Games Send-Off

Date: June 28

Time: 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: 100 Acre Brewing Co.

Admission: $20 entry including a free drink or $40 for families (2 adults and 2 kids)

This send-off celebration will feature food and drink sales, a silent auction, live music and a Gaelic football demonstration with opportunities to engage and play alongside local athletes. Attendees can expect interactive challenges, prizes and a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere to help send these athletes off in style.

In addition to the PTBO WIN events, there are several other ways to support the local Team Canada 2 athletes:

Online Raffle

$20 tickets available now until May 1.

Prizes include a $1,000 flight voucher, a signed Toronto Maple Leafs jersey and more. Tickets can be purchased by contacting the athletes directly or at local events.

Square Dance

Date: April 10

Time: 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: The Social

$15 admission at the door, an evening of live music, dancing, raffle prizes and community connection.

Arriba Indoor Co-Ed Volleyball Tournament

Date: May 2

Time: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: TASS School

Registration: https://www.arribavolleyball.com/coed-tourney-registration-may-2/

VIVA Beach Co-Ed Volleyball Tournament

Date: June 6

Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: Whitby Free Methodist Church

Registration: https://www.vivavolleyball.ca/tournaments

“This is such an amazing initiative,” says King. “The community is really coming together to support us. The cost for the whole team is upwards of $60,000 so I hope we can build strong excitement and attendance at these events.”

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Petes Defenceman's Fundraiser Collaboration With Milk + Tea Exceeds Expectations and Gets Over 120 Meals to Those In Need

Petes defenceman Thanasi Marentette and his community initiative, Marentette’s Mission, in collaboration with Milk + Tea’s Brewing Confidence, was a major success that will feed over 120 individuals.

Kathy Song, Milk + Tea co-owner (left); Thanasi Marentette, Petes defenceman and Phillip Cho, Milk + Tea co-owner (right) at the bubble tea establishment, located on George Street in Downtown Peterborough. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The initiative donated a portion of the proceeds from select baked goods and specialty items to feed anyone in need, including ham and cheese sandwiches, fresh bagels, hearty chicken noodle and lentil soup, hot coffee and tea and cookies.

Selected goods sold included sourdough bagels, cinnamon rolls, cookies and bubble tea kits. The campaign goal was not only to raise funds but also to increase awareness of both organizations and their shared mission to support underprivileged individuals and families.

Meals will be served and distributed in partnership with Street Level Advocacy of Peterborough.

“This partnership was a huge success,” said Marentette. “The support from the community has been incredible, and it’s allowed us to turn this fundraiser into something tangible, providing real meals and real support to people who need it most. I am confident this will become an annual event.”

In addition to supporting Marentette’s Mission, the fundraiser also contributed to Milk + Tea Shop’s ongoing commitment to inclusive employment. The business continues to provide training and job opportunities for young adults with Down syndrome and individuals with disabilities.

“We’re extremely grateful for the response from the community,” said Philip Cho, Milk + Tea co-owner . “This partnership allowed us to give back in a meaningful way while continuing to invest in inclusive programs that are central to our mission.”

Following the success of this collaboration, Marentette’s Mission is actively exploring additional partnerships and initiatives to further its goal of uplifting the local community.

The Petes open their first-round series at home against the North Bay Battalion at the Peterborough Memorial Centre this Thursday at 7:05 p.m.

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Disc Golf Tournament at Escape Maze Raises Funds For Youth Program and Local Food Bank

Disc golfers, puzzle enthusiasts and community supporters are invited to the Escape Maze’s Otonabee Disc Golf Course on April 4 for a charity tournament combining sport and adventure; raising funds for the Ontario Disc Sports Association’s Little Hyzers youth program.

Photo courtesy of escape maze.

“This event is really about community,” says Escape Maze organizer Angelica Haggert. “Disc golf is one of the most welcoming sports out there, and the Little Hyzers program makes sure kids can participate regardless of financial barriers. Pairing that with food donations for Kawartha Food Share means we’re supporting both youth recreation and families in our own community.”

Registration is $20 per player, with all proceeds supporting Little Hyzers youth programming. In addition to tournament play, participants and spectators are encouraged to bring canned food donations for Kawartha Food Share, helping provide essential supplies to local food banks across the region.

"Capitalizing on the success of previous fundraisers in the GTAH, Missed Mando is excited to bring this initiative to eastern Ontario to serve a new population of players," says Missed Mando podcaster Sean Galbraith. "We want disc golfers to have a wildly hilarious, yet challenging fun experience, while also supporting youth participation in this easily-accessible sport."

Throughout the day, Escape Maze will also offer additional fundraising activities, such as drop-in laser tag sessions and afternoon escape room bookings with proceeds going toward the Little Hyzers program, giving visitors extra ways to participate in the cause.

The tournament is designed to be accessible to players of all experience levels, from seasoned competitors to newer players looking to enjoy a casual round for a good cause.

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Paul Rellinger Returns to the Roof as United Way Nears $1.6 Million Community Campaign Goal

The United Way Peterborough and District’s Campaign Chair Paul Rellinger announces from the roof of the Twohey Home and Long & McQuade Musical Instruments building that they are 4 per cent away from the $1.6 million campaign goal.

photo courtesy of the united way peterborough and district.

Rellinger addressed the community from the roof of Twohey Home and Long & McQuade Musical Instruments, reviving a visual many in Peterborough will remember from his past “Relly on the Roof” fundraiser.

Fifteen years ago, in the spring of 2011, Rellinger launched the first “Relly on the Roof” fundraiser, a rooftop campaign that supported United Way Peterborough & District and quickly became a memorable local tradition.

With just weeks remaining in the campaign, United Way announced it is now 4 per cent away from its $1.6 million goal, with $61,000 left to raise before March 31.

“We’re incredibly proud of what this community has already accomplished,” said Jim Russell, CEO of United Way Peterborough and District. “This campaign reflects the generosity and commitment of people across Peterborough and the county. When we come together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbours.”

Throughout the campaign year, volunteers, workplaces and individual donors have supported the campaign, helping raise critical funds for programs that address poverty, food insecurity, housing instability, mental health and social isolation across the region.

“Many people in this community will remember when I spent time on rooftops raising money for local causes,” said Rellinger. “I never expected to be back up here again, but when you’re this close to your goal, you are willing to go to great heights to finish the job. We’re just $61,000 away from our goal. That final 4 percent represents real support for people in our community who need it most. If you’ve been thinking about giving, now is the time to help us cross the finish line.”

With the campaign deadline approaching on March 31, United Way is encouraging community members to help raise the final funds needed to complete what has already been a remarkable year of collective giving.

Community members can learn more or make a donation by visiting the website.

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