Upstanding Volunteers Spreading Smiles for Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity ReStore may sell refurbished items but it could be labelled a happiness factory thanks to volunteers David Macleod and Keir Lewin.

(left to right) Keir Lewin, Christina Skuce, David Macleod and Craig Meridith. Habitat for Humanity accepts volunteers for setting up displays, processing donated products, providing customer service, repairing furniture and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Macleod has volunteered for the ReStore for almost a year, starting back in September 2020. Lewin, an 18-year-old Kenner student, had completed his last day of volunteering Friday after spending the entire summer with the ReStore.

Both men have been taken under the wing of social worker Craig Meridith who has worked with special needs people for over a decade.

"The positivity on them is unbelievable,” explained Meridith. “That’s what makes my job fun. David and Keir bring nothing but fun and a positive attitude to the table and they want to learn.”

“They are an incredible part of our Habitat family and they make it possible for us to raise funds to build more affordable homes in the community,” said Christina Skuce, Habitat director of Philanthropy and Communications.

Macleod arranges and organizes the home decoration section that ranges from kitchen utensils, dishware, movies, paintings and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Staff and customers have noted the positive attitude that both volunteers carried which has been contagious to anyone who talks to them.

“Listening to their passion and how proud they are working at the ReStore is incredible,” explained Skuce. ”I was tearing up earlier, listening to David saying how happy he is to be here. They have the best attitude, they’re happy and everyone on staff loves them.”

Lewin was born in Toronto but was moved to Peterborough at a very young age. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Macleod organizes the home decoration section and also works as a greeter for the retail store. He originally started volunteering twice a week but has bumped that up to three days. Lewin aids in the garbage disposal and moving small inventory around the store.

“A lot of people come in here and actually just see David and talk to him as well,” explained Meridith. “He’s turning into a fan favourite in the community which has also led to a lot of people coming into the ReStore.”

Both Meridith and Skuce explain that this work helps anyone with special needs to gain life skills and mature in their mental and cognitive development.

“I couldn’t be more happier watching them grow as individuals and contribute in such a positive manner,” exclaimed Meridith. “It’s exciting to watch them here I could do this five days a week if I could instead of just three.”

“I love that they can go home at night and they are proud of what they did here at the ReStore.” said Skuce.

For more information on volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, email volunteer@habitatpkr.ca or call 705-750-1456.

“We’re a team,” exclaimed Macleod. “My good friend Craig Meridith helped me get here and I like the job.”

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Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club Paddles On From Government Grant

After the last day of a canoe program, the Peterborough Canoe and Kayak Club (PCKC) received a $15,500 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) on Friday.

The PCKC was established in July 2017. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Club members and city officials gathered at Johnson Park to watch young paddlers in fun races at Little Lake just off Beavermead Park. The final day was a showcase of the skills learned by the young paddlers as well as a recognition ceremony for the grant funding.

The club has seen a huge growth in numbers this year since 2020 where COVID-19 made it difficult for them to run its events.

“The year before, we've had 50 paddlers,” said Jim Stewart, PCKC commodore.” This year, we've had 150 plus padders plus another 30 in masters, paracanoeing and in learn-to-paddle programs.”

Most PCKC boats are racing boats that are expensive and unstable which are not rented out to the public. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The grant was used to help with staffing costs, buying new fencing, a rescue boat motor, installing new storage capabilities and a sanitizing station.

MPP Dave Smith presented the check at the presentation ceremony on OTF’s behalf. He said the PCKC fit the bill perfectly for the grant.

“It was about doing something for volunteers with a not-for-profit organization that provided an opportunity for youth,” he said. “It really was perfectly designed what Trillium was designed for.”

The OTF has nearly invested $112 million into 1,384 community projects and partnerships. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Both Smith and Stewart agree that these programs that promote physical activity are beneficial for kids on several different levels.

“It's good for their physical health but the key is that it's good for their mental health,” said Smith. “They learn an activity they can do their entire life and they have fun doing it which is one of the best things that come out of it.”

“People are very pleased to be in the open air in the water,” reflected Stewart. “A sport that provides them with new friends, a learning experience and a chance to gain self-respect for being on the water.”

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Local Woman Spreads Kindness With Free Flowers

Peterborough’s Ashley Webster is spreading kindness throughout her neighbourhood by leaving free flowers and chalk messages in the south end.

Photo Courtesy of Ashley Webster.

Webster says that sometimes when she cuts the flowers she grows in her garden, she will set some at the end of her driveway in case anyone wants them.

“A neighbour actually came one day to check with me, she saw someone taking them and thought they were stealing,” she said. “I said ‘No, no that’s what they’re there for’.”

Gardening helps Webster handle her OCD. She has been struggling a lot lately because of all of the negativity in the news and gardening is a way to help combat that she says.

One of Websters gardens. Photo courtesy of Ashley Webster

While working in the Mayor’s office, Webster often receives complaints from concerned community members.

“My goal is reminding people that it’s not all bad, this is a really good place to live,” she said.

She hopes that this idea catches on and that other gardeners participate. According to Webster gardeners often have to cut back their flowers this time of year and thinks that this is a great option to get rid of excess.

“I think this is a nice way for people to focus on something positive,” she said.

Webster hopes that this initiative becomes something similar to the sign wars Peterborough participated in earlier this year.

“I felt the sign wars gave everyone a boost when they needed a bit of humour,” she said. “I’ve been sensing that a lot of people are struggling right now. I don’t what it is but I feel like maybe it’s needed right now.”

Webster invites anyone interested in participating to leave flowers outside for someone who may need them or to leave a chalk message to brighten someone’s day.

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Pirate Ghost Ship Looting Community Solidarity For Smiles and Charity

UPDATED: Aug. 21 11:26 a.m.

It may seem like an overly elaborate Halloween decoration but the pirate ghost ship on Jenn and Braden Glasbergen’s property has brought communities together while supporting charity.

Jenn (left) and Braden Glasbergen (right) have had four different elaborate front-yard decorative displays such as Easter, dinosaurs, a ghost pirate ship and a gingerbread house. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Built last year, the ship was primarily built for Halloween decoration that took about 10 weeks but has received upgrades in 2021 such as a second walkway and more decorations.

The Glasbergen’s built it largely for the community to enjoy — and partially to enjoy the decorating and holiday celebrations — but also added a charity element after onlookers asked about making donations.

The ship weighs roughly 300 pounds according to the Glasbergens. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The family did not want money but accepted non-perishable food and drink for donors to see the ship. The items went to food banks like St. Vincent de Paul for the last two years. Animal food and goods such as pet litter, toys and accessories would also be donated to local animal shelters, as the Glasbergen’s are self-proclaimed animal lovers.

“The whole entire car was filled to the brim with food and pet supplies,” send Jenn.

The ship set a good example for kids to be involved in their communities added Braden.

“It was good for the kids too, they would bring a can of soup or a box of mac and cheese or something like that to donate,” he explained. “It helps them learn to give back as well.”

The ship is fully detachable from the house and is stored in the garage when not in season. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Located on Ravenwood Drive, the decorated ship has attracted communities and even out-of-town residents to see the spectacle.

"We had a family on Halloween that saw the ship, they went back home, the whole entire family dressed up in pirate costumes,” mentioned Jenn. “We have people that have to pass every single night because the kids have to say goodnight to the ship.”

Some decorations were purchased however there were building materials and other ornaments were community-donated towards the cause.

The ship has attracted a large amount of community attention and is now open to the public including the donation box. It gets put up around late summer and taken down right after Halloween.

A treasure cove display that has a built walkway path independent of the the ship’s entrance. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The family is currently expecting more decorations to be delivered.

The ship has served as a community spotlight for the family’s neighbourhood, creating a mentality where everyone helps everyone according to the couple.

"It's a good way to give back to the community," said Jenn. "If the community would still like to keep giving, then let's pay it forward."

The family advises that anyone driving to see the ship to exercise caution and to pull over and not obstruct any traffic behind them by driving slowly.

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Transportation Master Plan Consultation Remains Open Until August 20

A survey to receive public input on the new City-wide Transportation Master Plan to develop an integrated, connected, and sustainable transportation system for the City remains open until August 20 2021, at 11:59 p.m.

Photo courtesy of City of Peterborough

The consultation is part of the second phase of the Transportation Master Plan update process. The first phase took place in early 2021.

Comments and information collected through the consultation, along with data that is collected, input from the City, and recommendations from the consultants will help inform the project.

At the end of the Transportation Master Plan update process, a draft plan will be presented to City Council for its consideration and approval.

The survey is available from August 6 to August 20, through the project website at www.connectptbo.ca/moveptbo. Anyone unable to access the online survey can contact the City during office hours 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 705-742-7777 ext. 1749 or by email at moveptbo@peterborough.ca for assistance.

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Ontario Providing More Support to Communities During COVID-19

The Ontario government is providing $2,300,300 to help the City of Peterborough deliver critical services, create longer-term housing solutions and keep vulnerable people safe announced Monday.

MPP Dave Smith has been part of several food drives in support of Kawartha Food Share. File Photo.

“The third investment in Peterborough as part of our Social Services Relief Funding continues to build on our efforts to support our vulnerable neighbours and build affordable housing across our community,” said MPP Dave Smith. “As of today, we have invested $5,326,143 in critical supports to keep our most vulnerable safe from COVID-19 and address the long-standing housing challenges we face,” MPP Smith added.

The announcement is part of the province’s additional $307 million investment to help municipalities and Indigenous community partners respond to COVID-19.

This investment builds upon the $765 million dollars of Social Services Relief Funding (SSRF) announced in 2020- 2021, for total support to communities of over $1 billion.

“Municipalities have been on the frontlines of Ontario’s pandemic response and vaccine rollout, while continuing to protect our most vulnerable populations, including homeless populations,” said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Our government is committed to ensuring municipalities have the resources they need to keep their communities safe, and today’s funding will help our local partners deliver critical services, support vulnerable people, and unlock affordable housing in their communities.”

Municipalities and Indigenous community partners can use the funding to protect homeless shelter staff and residents, add to rent banks, build affordable housing and support plans to prepare for potential future outbreaks and/or emergencies.

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Peterborough Group Revitalizing Skateboarding With Skatepark Upgrades

After several coats of blue paint, the West49 skatepark gets a facelift from the Peterborough Skateboard Coalition and volunteers on Sunday.

Dan Post (left) performing a grind known as a “tailslide.” Post moved to Peterborough in October and met several coalition members and friends at the West49 skatepark. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The group is made up of skateboard enthusiasts that want to improve skateboard spaces, events and programming through advocacy, fundraising, partnering and engagement in Peterborough.

The paint was supplied by the City of Peterborough with help from Cassandra Babcock, Facilities Manager and Coun. Lesley Parnell according to coalition member Dan Post.

Several members and volunteers painted the McDonnel Street skatepark and spray-painted “tags” of the coalition’s logo. The concrete was patched by skateboarder Riley Wilkins before the park was covered in blue.

Coalition member Geoff Rix performing an “Indy” grab while airborne off a launch ramp. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Built in 2002, the 8,400 square feet skate park was painted as one way of reinvigorating skateboarding back into Peterborough.

The sport has gained popularity in recent years as a new sport in the Olympics, the rehashing of the popular video game series “Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater” and veteran skaters that can be in skateparks again from the COVID-19 pandemic according to Post.

Sparo Lindsay rides the ramp vertically. Lindsay is the owner of beauty salon Union Studio in downtown Peterborough, Photo by David Tuan Bui.

He wants to grow the Peterborough skateboarding community of all ages and skill levels and wants the city to help foster and accommodate.

"We gave it a bit of revitalization to inject some more energy back into the place, to create a sense of pride,” he said.

Coalition member Aiden Finn performing a “kickflip” while going gap-to-gap from a higher level to a lower one. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The group is seeking help from the City of Peterborough to make more upgrades to the facility such as high-wattage LED lights for nighttime skating, exterior seating, more garbage and recycling bins, a water fountain and a sunshade.

"It's all part of bringing this park back up to a community standard that's more welcoming, more accessible and more inviting," said Post.

The coalition is lobbying the city to build a second skatepark to accommodate the skateboarding community’s growth in Peterborough. The proposed park would have a design that would cater to skaters of all skill levels.

"This design of this park comes from an era it was built," explained Post. "Skateboarding has no rules and so it is constantly evolving. The terrain we skate also needs to evolve alongside it."

The Peterborough Skateboard Coalition is always openly looking for new volunteers to help grow the skateboard community. Photo Courtesy of the Peterborough Skateboard Coalition.

Expanding skateboarding accessibility in Peterborough can foster Olympic-level athletes since the city already displayed elite hockey and lacrosse players in the past according to Post.

“There is a need to start training and for younger kids to start training, as some of them are going to have Olympic aspirations,” he said. “We have an opportunity to produce some high-level elite skateboard talent here as well that could one day make it into the Olympics.”

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Former Trent Student Founds Website Incentivizing People to Shop Locally

In an innovative and creative way to incentivize people to shop local while promoting small businesses, former Trent student Nick Mitchell founded a new community engagement project called “Take a Challenge, Make a Change" (TACMAC).

Mitchell has been a lifeguard instructor in Kenya and a chef in British Columbia. Photo Courtesy of TACMAC.

Launching this Thursday, the website encourages participants — primarily post-secondary students — to engage in fun challenges to earn discounts or rewards and support charity while supporting small businesses.

Challenges are complete by posting a picture of themselves at the establishments on Instagram with the hashtag #TACMACJACKPOT. Anyone who enters will be registered for a weekly jackpot for a chance to donate $100 —money supplied by TACMAC — to a charity of the winner’s choice.

The charitable idea stemmed from Mitchell’s time working at One Roof Community Centre. It inspired him to create a business dedicated to giving back to the community. The inspiration for creating TACMAC came from his time at Trent where his friends and classmates knew of very few places to spend time and shop in town and go to the same place repeatedly.

"I’ve come across so many of my fellow peers who time after time say there's nothing to do in Peterborough," said Mitchell. "The response was that they didn't know this (certain places) even existed."

Some examples include having a home cook-off with a friend based on one ingredient from The Food Shop or purchasing crickets from the House of Scales and make a meal from them.

TACMAC creates an outlet for students to experience Peterborough outside of the ‘campus bubble” according to Mitchell.

Photo Courtesy of TACMAC.

Businesses can register themselves through TACMAC’s website for a small fee to allow customers to take part in their challenges. The incentive is another way for entrepreneurs to promote and advertise their businesses.

Mitchell says the timing of TACMAC could not be any better since some people are unsure of what is open or closed during the current stages of the pandemic.

"It just gives people a clear-cut path to activities in Peterborough," said Mitchell. "There's probably going to be a lot of confusion to what's okay. When they see it on the website, it kind of reduces a bit of the anxiety."

Over 20 businesses have registered for TACMAC.

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Peterborough Petes Launch Frontline Workers Drop The Puck Program

The Peterborough Petes recognizes deserving local frontline workers with the Frontline Workers Drop the Puck program announced on Friday.

Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

The Petes acknowledge that this past year and a half has required additional time, effort and a tremendous amount of dedication from the frontline workers throughout Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes.

Each week, the Petes will recognize and celebrate one frontline worker who was nominated by a colleague, member of the community or employer for their extraordinary work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

File Photo.

The Petes will be accepting applications recognizing frontline workers across all industries. These industries include but are not limited to, first responders, food and agriculture, manufacturing, public transit workers, grocery store workers and construction.

Nominations for this program opened on Friday and end on Aug. 20. The Petes will be selecting one nominee per week starting on Monday, August 9.

The frontline workers who are selected will be invited to participate in the ceremonial puck drop when the Petes return to the Memorial Centre for their home opener on Oct. 14 against the Sudbury Wolves.

Fans can nominate the same individual as many times as they would like. The more nominations an individual receives will result in a better chance of being selected to drop the puck at the Petes home opener.

Puck droppers will be determined based on the number of nominations that are submitted highlighting their work, in conjunction with a review of the reasons they were nominated.

To nominate a frontline worker, click here.

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Lions Club Shoe Drive Shatters Goal By Collecting Over 2,500 Pairs of Footwear

After a month-long campaign and 2,549 pairs of footwear later, the Peterborough Lions Club concluded a successful Shoe Drive that ended Friday.

MPP Dave Smith (left) with Gwen Sawyer, Lions Club membership director after tallying the final total of pairs of footwear collected. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Lions Club.

Present at the ceremony were Lions Club President Garth McQuaig, Lions service chair Judy Jenkins, MPP Dave Smith, Haily Whitelock from Bioped Footcare & Orthotics and other committee members to announce the completion of the shoe drive.

Gently-used to brand new footwear of all kinds were accepted at the drive from shoes, flip-flops, cleats, skates and more were taken in as part of the month-long campaign. Community members could drop off their donations at the club located on 347 Burnham St. or at Bioped Footcare at 655 The Queensway, Unit 6.

Judy Jenkins with the shoe drive sign with a minor correction after Smith’s final donation. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The donated footwear is repaired and restored by Bioped before being redistributed to needing families or individuals, prioritizing locally before donating them abroad.

The club’s goal was 1,000 pairs which was easily shattered which was a pleasant surprise from the committee members.

"I couldn't believe the overwhelming support of our community," said Jenkins. "We put out what our need was and the community just rallied around us and the shoes just kept coming and coming and coming."

Over 150 garbage bags filled with shoes were donated to the Shoe Drive. Photo Courtesy Of Peterborough Lions Club.

Shoes that go abroad will go to needing families in countries such as Haiti, South Africa, Puerto Rico and Costa Rica. They can sell the footwear in order to help sustain a living.

“One pair of shoes pays for food for one week for a family of four. Twenty pairs of shoes abroad pay for one year of education for a student which every student has to pay for their education from grade 1 and up. Another 20 pairs pay for the residence in which the students live,” explained Jenkins.

Smith officially made the last donation, removing his pair of shoes for the cause.

“The Peterborough Lion’s Club has been a key community-oriented organization for decades. They are always working – donating their time and resources – to support those who need support,” he said.

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