City of Peterborough Celebrates Opening Of Millennium Time Capsule

Community members gathered at Millennium Park Fountain on Wednesday morning to commemorate the opening of the Millennium Time Capsule, sealed 25 years ago on Aug. 6, 2000.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The event marked both the 25th anniversary of the time capsule and the City of Peterborough’s 175th anniversary since its incorporation as the Town of Peterborough. 

“When we open a time capsule, we’re doing more than unveiling artifacts, we’re remembering who we were, and asking who we want to become,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “We reflect on all the ways Peterborough has changed, through resilience, innovation, and the growing diversity that strengthens our community.”

Contents of the original time capsule were unveiled and will become part of an exhibit at the Peterborough Public Library, which opens Aug. 22..  

The event also marked the official dedication of a new 175th Anniversary Time Capsule, created in partnership with the New Canadians Centre, the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre and the City of Peterborough. The latest capsule reflects the diversity, culture, and community spirit of Peterborough today and will remain sealed until 2050. 

The celebration opened with a land acknowledgement and a performance by Naandewegaan - Healing with Drums. Other speakers included:  

• Ken Armstrong, Chair of the original Celebration 2000 Committee 

• Janine Simard-Rose, original project coordinator of the Millennium Time Capsule 

• Adam Hopkins, President of the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre 

• Marisa Kaczmarczyk, Interim Executive Director of the New Canadians Centre 

• Sam Banton, local poet and spoken word artist, who performed a poem titled "Trains on a Traintrack,” commissioned for the event to reflect on Peterborough’s past, present, and imagined future. Her piece is sealed within the new 175th Anniversary Time Capsule.

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United Way Peterborough & District Unveils 2025 Community Campaign Cabinet

The United Way Peterborough & District has announced the members of its 2025 Community Campaign Cabinet on Thursday morning.

Photo courtesy of the United Way/

On May 21, United Way named journalist Paul Rellinger as its 2025 Campaign Chair.

The Cabinet had its first meeting of the campaign season this week. Rellinger says the gathering set the tone for a year of meaningful engagement, collaboration and impact.

“I wish there was a way that all Peterborough city and county residents could have been at the first Cabinet meeting to see, hear and feel the energy and spark I saw, heard and felt,” he explained. “A fierce commitment to building stronger and more equitable communities, where no one is left behind and all are provided the opportunity to thrive, was evident from the get-go. It reminded me that whatever we accomplish, be it with this campaign or with any like endeavour, success is inevitably rooted in the character, compassion and commitment of those driving things forward. We are indeed in the best of hands, fueling my unbridled optimism for a very good campaign result.”

The following are this year’s cabinet members:

• Darcy Bonner, Community Ambassador

• Dr. Michael Eamon, Trent University

• Ann Farquharson, Farquharson Law

• Coby Fewings, Scotiabank

• Dr. Bruce Gibson, Community Ambassador

• Marg Glenn, Glenn Isle Farms

• Sheridan Graham, County of PTBO

• Greg Kidd, KPRDSB

• Richard Lambert, BMO

• Evan Lyons, PRHC

• Laken MacFarlane, City of PTBO

• Vipesh Patel, Community Ambassador

• Dr. Thomas Piggot, HKNP Health Unit

• Amanda Pinder, RBC

• Dr. Stephan Ragaz, Community Ambassador

• Paul Rellinger, 2025 Campaign Chair

• Balkaran Singh Sathi, Sathi Law

• Jeannine Taylor, KawarthaNOW

• Sebastien Tinor-Roy, TD Bank

• Staff Sargeant John Townsend, PTBO Police

• Shirley Turner, EXIT Realty Liftlock

• Danielle Turpin, Community Ambassador

“The people around the table are difference-makers,” Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “They bring vision, compassion and energy to this campaign and we’re incredibly grateful for their leadership.”

The Cabinet will reconvene in September to continue planning for this year’s Campaign Launch, scheduled for the Healthy Planet Arena on Sept. 25.

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Ennismore Community Centre Receives Over $930,000 In Funding For Resurfacing From Ontario Government

The Ontario government is investing $931,750 to replace the floor at the Ennismore Community Centre, announced on Friday morning.

CSRIF is a key part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario workers, businesses and families by unleashing the economy and getting more shovels in the ground, with a historic $200 billion investment to build highways, hospitals, transit, schools and other critical infrastructure across the province. Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

The investment is part of the province’s $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF). The initiative helps communities revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP

“This investment in the Ennismore Community Centre is absolutely fantastic news for families in Selwyn Township,” he said. “It's more than just replacing a 54-year-old ice surface; it's about securing the future of a vital community hub. This funding ensures that local sports teams, recreational skaters, and community groups will continue to have a modern, safe, and accessible facility for decades to come. Our government is proud to make these kinds of direct investments that strengthen our communities and support active, healthy living right here at home.”

The project will include replacing the 54-year-old, 180-foot by 80-foot concrete slab floor, refrigeration piping and ice rink chiller. The arena has hosted sporting groups, youth leagues, recreational skaters and community organizations since its construction.

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Local Community Builder's Podcast Hits 200th Episode Milestone

Local community builder Ken John Jones and his podcast, “Jonesy’s Corner Podcast” is celebrating a major milestone, filming and releasing his 200th episode.

Ken John Jones (left) with Pete Dalliday (right). Dalliday hosted Jones’s 100th milestone episode in the PTBOCanada studio on July 14, 2023. Photo by Martin House.

His video podcast features inspirational stories from guests from Peterborough and the surrounding area, raising awareness and highlighting their respective communities.

The 200th episode features Pete Dalliday, Peterborough Lakers director of community engagement, as the host, reflecting back on the podcast’s origins and highlights throughout its 200 episodes with Jones.

He started the podcast in the spring of 2022 with his first episode on April 25 of the same year. It is a way to help share community stories as the world was still reeling from the effects of COVID-19.

“The streets were quiet and people felt isolated from not seeing each other as often as they did once before,” explained Jones. “Thanks to Alternatives Community Program Services Peterborough, this was finding a way to stay connected virtually by using Zoom.”

His podcast has featured athletes, politicians, artists/musicians, organization executives and more. Guests who have appeared on his podcast include Taite Cattoni, Peterborough Lakers forward; Michelle Ferreri, former Peterborough-Kawartha MP; Mike Judson, former CHEX/Global News meteorologist; Katrina Squazzin, Sportsnet host and Irish Millie, musician (to name a few).

“She is known as a fiddle sensation who has played since a young age,” said Jones. “(She) has many connections to help bring out the best in others who’s new to the music scene. As the saying goes, you don’t need to be blood to be family and music is a powerful medicine that people use every day.”

Jones was born with developmental issues and has been through the Five Counties Children’s Centre and Toronto Sick Kids Hospital system. He does not let his condition hold him back from doing what he loves.

“The fun part of doing this podcast is a great way to learn skills in conversation,” said Jones. “(It) provides a safe space for people to share their story in an open, non-judgmental manner. If it weren’t for this podcast, I wouldn’t have been available to meet the individuals I have talked with and met.”

Jones’s podcasts can be found on his personal Facebook page or official Instagram handle.

Jones was presented with a Community Builder Certificate of Recognition by Ferreri in March 2022.

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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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