United Way's Day of Caring Helped Community Projects Throughout the City

Volunteer teams set out ot help the community’s non-profit organization projects as part of the United Way Peterborough and District Day of Caring on Friday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The annual event sees volunteers from several organizations support local organizations by painting, landscaping, cleaning, organizing and other projects that enhance capacity and uplift vital community spaces according to Jim Russell, United Way CEO.

“This day is all about action and collaboration,” he said. “It’s incredible to see so many businesses and individuals come together to make a tangible difference for local non-profits — it’s community spirit in its purest form.”

This year, around 40 volunteers from Scotiabank, BMO, RBC, CIBC, the Peterborough and District Labour Council and Jani-King of Eastern Ontario aided six community projects, including:

• One City Peterborough Yard work and cleanup projects at separate sites, including 360 Reid St., to help maintain safe and welcoming community spaces

• YES Shelter for Youth and Families Interior painting at the main shelter and the Carriage House Drop-in Centre at 196 Brock St., to brighten spaces for youth and families

• Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough Beautification of the Bridge Site at 210 Wolfe St., including planting, outdoor furniture painting, sweeping, raking, litter collection, and the creation of a plywood gratitude wall

• Peterborough City Councillor Kevin Duguay Garden Box Project Construction of garden boxes at 560 Romaine St., with all proceeds from their sale going to United Way Peterborough

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First Peoples House of Learning Grateful For Community Donations To Aid Sandy Lake First Nations Evacuees

The community showed up for the Sandy Lake First Nation as Trent University’s First Peoples House of Learning (FPHL) is at capacity for accepting donations to help the evacuees.

Dr. Dawn Harvard, Trent University Director of First Peoples House of Learning, helps volunteers go through community donations at the Benedict Gathering Place (Ska'nikón:ra) to help refuged Sandy Lake First Nation residents. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Since Saturday, Sandy Lake First Nations residents have had to evacuate due to out-of-control wildfires spanning roughly six kilometres.

FPHL was supporting 300 evacuees and had collected community donations at the Benedict Gathering Place (Ska'nikón:ra in Mohawk, meaning ‘gathering our minds together’) that included clothing, food, towels, reusable water bottles, baby items and more.

“We’re grateful so many people has donated so many things. We really appreciate it,” said Dr. Dawn Harvard, director of the Trent University FPHL. “As of now, we’re good but if we need more things, we’ll reach out.”

A call was issued for donations on Wednesday but a day later, the Gathering Place placed a hold on donations due to overwhelming community outreach.

Despite putting a hold on donations, Harvard says FPLH are open to donation suggestions but is grateful for the quick response from Peterborough.

“I’m truly touched by the number of people at the very last minute to round up so many beautiful things,” said Harvard. “People have obviously have given from their hearts so we appreciate the community is all about and this is what Peterborough is all about.”

In addition to Trent, the City of Peterborough served as a host community. Emergency Management Ontario confirmed that approximately 200 evacuees arrived on Tuesday evening, with additional evacuees in the coming days. 

“When Peterborough was asked if it would be a host community for evacuees from areas that are threatened by the wildfires that are raging, there was no hesitation in opening the doors to our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Our community is quickly mobilizing to support those in need who are being forced to leave their homes because of the wildfires. Thank you to the numerous community agencies that are showing compassion and commitment to the well-being of the evacuees.”

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Class of 2025 Inductees Released For Pathway of Fame

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough & District has announced its class of 2025 Inductees to be honoured at Showplace Performance Centre on Sept. 9.

The first class of honourees were inducted, with stone markers placed into the Pathway of Fame at Del Crary Park, in 1998. Photo courtesy of the Pathway of Fame.

The following are this year’s inductees:

• Jerry Allen (Dramatic Arts)

• Roy Craft (Entertainment)

• Ted Dawes (Samaritan)

• Susan Dunkley (Community Builder)

• Juile Fallis (Dramatic Arts)

• Dr. Garry Humphreys (Community Builder, Posthumous Induction)

• Peggy Shaughnessy (Samaritan)

• Bob Trennum (Entertainment)

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

Inductees were chosen from a list of nominations submitted from the community at large by a newly appointed citizens’ committee tasked with reviewing nominations, followed by recommendations.

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Community Care Peterborough Receives Ice Storm Hero Award

Community Care Peterborough’s (CCP) Norwood Office has received an Ice Storm Hero Award from MPP David Piccini, which recognizes their response during the March 29-30 ice storm throughout the region, presented at a public ceremony in Norwood on May 30.

Photo courtesy of CCP.

The Ice Storm Hero Award is given ‘for exhibiting exceptional community spirit in a time of crisis.’

The storm caused widespread power outages, property damage and road closures throughout Peterborough County. CCP says they quickly mobilized staff and volunteers to conduct wellness checks, support clients, and ensure residents had access to shelter, warmth, and essential services. In Norwood, local volunteers stepped up to care for neighbours and ensure no one was left behind.

“During the ice storm, your team went the extra mile to brave the elements and provide integral wellness checks on seniors across the community,” said David Piccini, Northumberland—Peterborough South MPP. These efforts to ensure that no senior felt left behind during a time of extreme isolation deserve endless recognition.”

Piccini added in an accompanying letter the following statement, “Your commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of our community did not go unnoticed… In times of adversity, we are reminded that ‘community’ is more than just a place—it is the spirit and the actions of its people.”

Rosemary Davidson, Program Assistant for the Norwood office, accepted the award on behalf of CCP.

“It was very humbling to be included in such a group of honorees,” she said. “Our volunteers are amazing and their instinct to always help wherever needed most is inspiring.”

“I’m so happy to see our volunteers recognized for putting others before themselves, something they do every day without a second thought,” said Tammy Ross, Community Development Coordinator for both Norwood and Havelock.

“Our team is passionate about caring for our neighbours. It was inspiring to see our community rally together,” Catherine Pink, Director of Operations for CCP. “So many people did so much good for one another. We are humbled and grateful to receive this honour from Mr. Piccini for the part we played.”

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"The Work Starts Tomorrow" Journalist Paul Rellinger Announced As United Way Chair For 2025 Community Campaign

Local journalist Paul Rellinger has been named United Way Peterborough & District’s Chair of the 2025 Community Campaign, announced on Wednesday.

Paul Rellinger (left) celebrates his newly-appointed position with his wife Mary (right). Rellinger has been a journalist for 44 years with stints with Peterborough This Week, KawarthaNOW and more. Photo by David Tuan Bui

“I am equal parts humbled and honoured to be tasked with leading the Campaign Cabinet as the United Way embarks on yet another appeal, particularly when I reflect on the quality and dedication of the community leaders who have held this position prior,” said Rellinger.

Rellinger has organized the United Way’s annual fundraising concert, ‘Peterborough Performs,’ which has raised almost $150,000 in the five years it has been running.

“While we can celebrate the success of the past campaign, the need continues, not only for the United Way’s partner agencies but across our communities,” said Rellinger. “The United Way campaign does more than direct much-needed dollars to where they can do the most good. The campaign provides hope for a better tomorrow, all while reinforcing what many of us already know – that this is a community that cares for, and looks after, its own. That this is a community that rejects poverty, homelessness and social injustice in all its forms, and does what it can, what it must, to lessen the burden of those who, for whatever reason, are caught up in the continued spiral of inequity.”

As Chair, Rellinger’s duties include leading a team of volunteer leaders to orchestrate fundraising efforts, strengthen donor engagement and host inclusive community events.

“A Campaign chair is only as good as their cabinet,” he explained. “If you surround yourself with dedicated, capable and fun people who don't mind rolling up their sleeves and take on those tasks, it just becomes not necessarily easier but it becomes successful in the end.”

Rellinger’s thoughtful leadership and heartfelt belief in the power of local action are expected to inspire many to get involved according to Jim Russell, United Way CEO,

“Paul’s dedication and passion for our community are truly inspiring,” he said. “His connection to the organization is rooted in a belief that a thriving community takes collective effort and shared responsibility. He understands that the campaign is not just about raising funds, but rather about igniting hope and creating a shared sense of purpose. We are confident that under his leadership, the 2025 Campaign will be a remarkable success.”

@ptbo_canada Local journalist Paul Rellinger has been named the United Way Peterborough & District Chair of the 2025 Community Campaign. #ptbocanada #ptbo #peterborough #journalism #journalist #news #fyp ♬ FEEL THE GROOVE - Queens Road, Fabian Graetz

After being appointed chair, Rellinger has not disclosed his priorities when asked as he will attend a two-day United Way conference in Toronto starting Thursday. He says he wants to surpass last year’s fundraising goal and will better understand his goals upon his return.

“$1.5 million+ was great but we can do better and I know we will do better,” he explained. “The work starts tomorrow and it's going to be a full day. I think if you ask me this question next week, I can say ‘yeah, these are the things we're identifying.’”

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Peterborough Residents Take to Ireland to Celebrate 200th Anniversary of Peter Robinson's Settler Emigration Scheme

To mark the 200th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Settler Emigration Scheme, Peterborough residents took to Cobh, Ireland for a wreath-laying ceremony to celebrate the occasion on Friday.

(From left to right) David Kyffin, Counsellor and Program Manager at Embassy of Canada to Ireland; Eoighan Murphy, Chair of the Cork branch of the Irish Hotel Federation; Cllr Joe Carroll, Mayor of Cork County Council; Amanda Slattery, Manager at Ballyhoura Development CLG; John Concannon, Irish Ambassador to Canada; Brendan Moher, Chairperson of Nine Ships 1825 Inc. Peterborough; Glenn O'Meara, Descendant of O'Meara, Rathcormack 1823, Minnesota and Pádraig Casey, CEO of Ballyhoura Development CLG. Photo courtesy of Ballyhoura Development CLG.

The event was initiated and organised by Ballyhoura Development with several partners. It honoured the memory of over 500 families from the Ballyhoura region and surrounding areas who departed on 11 ships for Upper Canada in 1823 and 1825.

The event, emceed by Ballyhoura Development Manager Amanda Slattery, was attended by Mayor of Cork County Council Cllr Joe Carroll, Irish Ambassador to Canada John Concannon, Canadian Embassy representative David Kyffin, Limerick City and County Council Cllr Gregory Conway, and 1825 Ships Inc. Chairperson Brendan Moher of Peterborough.

“The commemoration event was a special ceremony of remembrance, reflection, and reconnection—honouring the legacy of those who departed two centuries ago,” said Slattery.

Descendants from Canada and America took part in the ceremony. Paul Hickey of Peterborough, a descendant of a family from Doneraile who sailed on the Star, laid a wreath on behalf of the 1825 emigrants. Glenn O’Meara of Minnesota, whose ancestors left Rathcormac in 1823 aboard the Stakesby, laid a wreath in memory of the earlier group. Father Tom McDermott of Cobh led the blessing.

Moher presented Padraig Casey, CEO of Ballyhoura Development, a commemorative plaque representing the communities of the Ballyhoura region.

“May the vast waters of the North Atlantic never separate us from the warm fires we forever will share at the hearth of our Irish and Canadian families,” said Casey.

The event culminated in Ambassador John Concannon's official unveiling of a special exhibition on the Peter Robinson Settlers in Cobh Heritage Centre and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Mayor of Cork County Council, Cllr Joe Carroll.

“I can’t express the gratitude and fondness we all felt. The Ballyhoura, Nine Ships and Cobh Heritage Centre teams created a powerful and meaningful experience,” said O'Meara. “I feel blessed to have been part of it.”

This ceremony marks the first of two major commemorative events. Ballyhoura Development will host the larger ‘Ireland-Canada Homecoming’ from September 15 to 21, welcoming descendants of the Peter Robinson Settlers back to the Ballyhoura region for a week of reconnection, storytelling and shared heritage.

“This was a truly unique experience for the descendants of this emigration, and a special day to highlight a once forgotten piece of our history,” said Slattery. “We thank all who supported and attended this memorable occasion.”

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Ballyhoura Development on this initiative and further demonstrate the emigration story of Ireland and Canada and its significance to Cobh, and look forward to sharing the exhibition on the Peter Robinson Settlers Emigration Scheme as a key feature of the heritage centre experience,” said Breeda Keane-Shortt, Cobh Heritage Centre.

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Lakefield Farmers’ Market Opening Day Starts This Thursday

The Lakefield Farmers’ Market returns for 2025 starting this Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, behind the Lakefield Arena on 20 Concession St.

Photo courtesy of the Lakefield Farmers’ Market.

Returning vendors this year include: A1 Gluten Free Gals, Bobcaygeon Brewing Company, Buns & Sweets, Carolina Coffee, Cedar Grove Organic Farm, Grandma Needled It, Jen’s Home Baking, Jess’s Kitchen, LaMesita Restaurante, Leahy Stock Farm, Madrigal Gardens, McLean Berry Farm, Ontario Cheese Union, Otonabee Apiary, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Purple Tongue Hot Sauce, The Jam Cupboard, Wagner Maple Products, Washburn Island Soaps and Yellow House Bees.

Kawartha Lakes Flower Farm and Mr. & Mrs. Perogie are new to this year's market.

In addition to weekly vendors, the market will welcome pop-up vendors throughout the season, including: Brad’s Knife Sharpening, Otonabee River Craft Co., Selwyn Makerspace, The Doggery, Juniper’s Wild Apothecary, and Munchies Gourmet Kettlecorn.

Opening Day festivities include a visit from Shifting Gears and B!KE: The Community Bike Shop. Market visitors can participate in the May Challenge, learn more about sustainable travel, and enjoy free bike tune-ups and giveaways.

Live music is also at opening day.

The market runs every Thursday from May 15 to October 30, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine.

Shoppers are also invited to a special Mother’s Day Market this Sundaymfrom 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. beside The Village Inn, 39 Queen St. in Downtown Lakefield.

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Winners Announced For Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 11th Annual Regional Spelling Bee Championship

Excitement was buzzing as the Rotary Club of Peterborough’s 11th Annual Regional Spelling Bee Championship have named their top three competitors in their respective divisions, held at Fleming College on Saturday.

The following where the top three spellers from the Junior and Intermediate divisions:

Junior (Gr. 4-6)

1. Verna Conlin-Hanley - St. Anne CES

2. Kieran Scerri - Kawartha Montessori School

3. Olivia Best - Queen Elizabeth PS

(from left to right) Buzz the Spelling Bee Mascot, Kieran Scerri, Verna Conlin-Hanley and Olivia Best of the Junior Division. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

Intermediate (Gr. 7-8)

1. Henry Sharpe - Adam Scott Intermediate PS

2. Tyler Phillips - St. Teresa CES

3. Shreyas Balakrishnan - Kaawaate East City PS

(from Left to Right) Tyler Phillips, Shreyas Balakrishnan, Henry Sharpe of the intermediate division. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

The top spellers in each division won a week at Trent Excalibur Camp, a week at Camp Kawartha, bikes from Canadian Tire, lessons at the Art School of Peterborough, a party at Zap Attack Laser tag, tickets for local events courtesy of Miskin Law, cash for their schools’ literacy programs and more.

More than 4,000 children competed in qualifying bees at their schools in order to participate in the final event.

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Peterborough County Officially Declares May As Museum Month

Peterborough County has proclaimed May as Museum Month to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the region and the vital role museums play in communities, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of Heather Doughty and Lang Pioneer Village

This year, Museum Month also includes International Museum Day on May 18, a global celebration that recognizes museums as centers of education, innovation, and cultural connection according to Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden.

“Residents and visitors are encouraged to take this opportunity to explore the many museums, galleries and heritage sites across Peterborough County, including Lang Pioneer Village Museum, one of our region’s premier historical attractions,” she said. “With its immersive 19th-century village experience, Lang Pioneer Village offers a unique window into the past and showcases the stories that shaped our communities.” 

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City of Peterborough to Mark Red Dress Day On Monday

Red Dresses will be hanging in the windows of City Hall to mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited People (MMIWG2S) on Monday.

File Photo.

Mayor Jeff Leal will proclaim May 5 as Red Dress Day during a commemorative ceremony on Monday at 10 a.m. at City Hall. All are welcome to attend. 

“Red Dress Day is a powerful reminder of the heartbreaking and ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people in Canada,” said Leal. “The red dresses hanging in silence call out for justice, action and for the recognition of lives lost and families forever changed. On the National Day of Awareness, I encourage all residents of Peterborough to take a moment to reflect on the lives behind the statistics, and to consider hanging a red dress in a window, on a porch, or in a public space as a powerful symbol of remembrance and solidarity.”

“We cannot turn away from the systemic racism and gender-based violence that have made Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people disproportionately vulnerable,” said Shelley Knott, Advisor, Indigenous Relations with the City of Peterborough. “As a country, and as a community, we have a responsibility to listen, to learn, and to act. On this National Day of Awareness, we ask that you stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities in honouring the memory of those who are missing or murdered—and in committing to a future where all people can live in safety, dignity, and respect.”

The ceremony will include a smudging ceremony, singing, traditional drumming and speeches from local dignitaries.  

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