Burnham Street In Lakefield Reopened; Kawartha Home Hardware Gets Temporary Location

The Township of Selwyn has reopened Burnham Street in Lakefield to traffic, following the community’s recovery from the Home Hardware fire.

pHOTO COURTESY OF kAWARTHA hOME hARDWARE.

This reopening, along with Queen Street and Burnham Street, grants full access through the Village’s downtown core. Pedestrian detours remain in place along the section of Queen and Burnham Streets immediately adjacent to the fire-affected site, where fencing will stay up until all site restoration activities are complete.

The Township is now working to reinstall two streetlight poles and fixtures that were removed for firefighter safety.

Home Hardware is opening a pop-up store downtown at 25 Queen St., according to a Facebook post on Tuesday. The store will have a paint department, their popular hardware essentials and seasonal merchandise. An opening date has not yet been announced.

“Lakefield’s heart is its people and its sense of community,” said Mayor Sherry Senis. “As we enter this special time of year, we hope everyone will come downtown, support local businesses, and take part in the many festive activities that showcase our Village’s spirit.”

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Photos: City of Peterborough Celebrates Veterans On 2025 Remembrance Day

The City of Peterborough and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 hosted hundreds of residents who paid their respects to war veterans during the Remembrance Day celebration at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Park on Tuesday morning.

All photos by David Tuan Bui.

The ceremonies featured a parade, addresses from dignitaries and veterans, prayer, two minutes of silence, hanging and poppies on wreaths and singing.

@ptbo_canada The City of Peterborough and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 hosted hundreds of residents who paid their respects to war veterans during the Remembrance Day celebration at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Park. #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #remembranceday ♬ Remembrance Day - Paris Street

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Bonnerworth Park Officially Open to the Public

The City of Peterborough celebrated the official grand opening of Bonnerworth Park on Saturday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The revitalization includes a new bike pump track, an expanded skatepark and 14 new pickleball courts, including two accessible courts.

“This revitalization brings fresh energy to Bonnerworth Park, creating a modern, inclusive space for a new generation,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “This is a park built for everyone, from skateboarders, cyclists and pickleball players to families who want to enjoy a sunny afternoon in Bonnerworth’s green space. Finished on time and on budget, Bonnerworth Park reflects Peterborough’s active spirit and will continue to be a place where people of all ages can come together.”

“Bonnerworth Park is a modern, accessible park marking a new and energetic chapter for recreation in Peterborough,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “The new amenities in this space are the result of collaboration with user groups, local organizations and the city. Together, we’ve created a welcoming, inclusive park that will serve residents for many years to come.”

A new shade shelter was constructed in the park after a $200,000 community investment from Hydro One through work on the Durham Kawartha Powerline project.

Other enhancements to the park include fresh sodding and a multipurpose trail linking all amenities. The park's perimeter is lined with 202 new trees.

Saturday’s opening celebration was followed by an afternoon of activities on the bike pump track, skatepark and pickleball courts, led by city staff and user groups.

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City Holding 2025 Remembrance Day Parade On Tuesday

The City of Peterborough is having its Remembrance Day parade and service at the Citizens' War Memorial in Confederation Square on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until approximately 11:20 a.m. 

File photo.

Organized and hosted by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52, Peterborough, everyone is welcome to participate to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of those who served and continue to serve our country during times of war, military conflict and peace. 

Those participating in the parade should arrive at Confederation Square by 9:30 a.m. to sign a waiver and take part.   

Rolling road closures will be in place along the parade route from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for the Remembrance Day parade. Some Peterborough Transit routes may be affected during that period.  

The schedule is as follows:

10 a.m.  

• Parade departs Confederation Square, travelling south on George Street, east on Hunter Street, north on Water Street and west on McDonnel Street, where it returns to the Citizens' War Memorial at Confederation Square.

10:25 a.m.  

• Parade arrives at Citizens' War Memorial.

10:30 a.m.  

• O Canada, led by the Salvation Army Band and Peterborough Pop Ensemble, followed by the Prayer of Invocation  

• Hymn, O God, Our Help in Ages Past  

• Addresses: Mayor Jeff Leal, City of Peterborough and Robert Lloyd, President, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 52 

• Performance by the Children’s Montessori and Preparatory School Choir  

• Placing of the Wreaths  

• Hymn, O Valiant Hearts, Salvation Army Band  

• The Peacekeeper's Prayer  

11 a.m.  

• Last Post 

• Two minutes of silence  

• Lament  

• The Rouse 

• We Honour You, Peterborough Pop Ensemble with Steven Bark  

• Guest Speaker, John Andela  

• God Save the King led by the Salvation Army Band and Peterborough Pop Ensemble  

• Benediction  

• Children place poppies on wreaths  

• March off the colours  

Ladies Auxiliary to Branch 52 will serve an open-faced hot beef sandwich for $5.00 following the service at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52, 1550 Lansdowne St. W.  To purchase a wreath, contact the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52 at 705-745-6361.

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Bonnerworth Park Opening Celebration Date Changed to Saturday

The official opening of the enhancements to Bonnerworth Park has been rescheduled from Thursday to Saturday at 1 p.m.

Photo bcourtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The celebration includes a new bike pump track, expanded skateboard park, pickleball courts and a shade structure.

The new official opening ceremony time will align with a weekend of activities in the park by user groups, including demonstrations on the bike pump track, pickleball courts, and skateboard park according to the City.

The opening ceremony was planned for Thursday but wet weather has slowed down the installation of sod.

Events are scheduled from Saturday through Monday.

Residents can take a free shuttle bus from City Hall to Bonnerworth Park on Saturday and Sunday. The bus will run continuously from City Hall to Bonnerworth Park from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  

Snacks and refreshments will be provided during weekend events.  

Schedule of weekend events:

Saturday

Bike Pump Track demonstrations, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., with members of the Peterborough cycling community. This will also include a time-lapse event.  

Learn to play short mat bowling, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the McDonnel St. Community Centre. 

Sunday

Skateboard demonstrations hosted by members of the Peterborough skateboarding community, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. This event includes a Skate Jam and a Learn to Skate event highlighting the expanded skatepark’s new features.  

Learn to play pickleball, 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Instruction and equipment will be provided.  

Monday

Learn to play/Try it Pickleball, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Instruction and equipment will be provided.  

Pop-up bike event, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. This event includes bicycle safety checks and cycling tips. 

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Burger Supremacy Runs In November For United Way's "Ultimate Burger Battle" Fundraiser

United Way Peterborough & District has kicked off its first-ever Ultimate Burger Battle where local restaurants and Burger Ambassadors gathered for a ‘First Bite’ preview of this delicious new fundraiser at its facility on Thursday morning.

The Ultimate Burger Battle has been tested to delicious success in other communities, with United Way Thunder Bay launching the original event six years ago. Since then, it has expanded into a national event organized by United Ways across Canada, serving more than 60,000 burgers nationwide last year alone. SCreenshot, Instagram.

The month-long Burger Battle is a new community fundraiser that was announced during United Way’s Campaign Launch in late September.

Eight local restaurants have crafted a burger to battle for the title of Peterborough and County’s Ultimate Burger of the Year. For every burger sold throughout November, two dollars will be donated to United Way Peterborough & District to support its programs and services. 

“We’re absolutely thrilled to bring the first-ever United Way Ultimate Burger Battle to Peterborough and District,” said Jim Russell, CEO of United Way Peterborough & District. “This campaign is a fun way to celebrate the creativity of our local restaurants while uniting the community around a shared cause. We’re especially proud to see participation from restaurants across both the City and County, a reflection of the wide reach and generosity of our region. Every Ultimate Burger sold helps build a stronger, more caring community, and I think that’s something we can all sink our teeth into.” 

The Ultimate Burger Battle has showcases creations such as fish patties to burgers stacked high with pickled jalapeño peppers.

Restaurants joining Peterborough & District United Way’s inaugural Ultimate Burger Battle include: 

• The Dirty Burger Company

• Double Dz's Diner

• Agave by Imperial

• The Vine

• The Loon Lakefield

• The Chemong Lodge

• Pizza Villa & Pasta House

• The Rink Tap & Grill

During November, a team of local Ultimate Burger Battle Ambassadors are tasting their way across Peterborough and the County, sharing their experiences, reviews, and behind-the-scenes peeks on social media.

This will help spotlight participating restaurants and encourage the community to join the fun by trying new burgers and voting for their favourites. Community members can get involved by voting online at uwpeterborough.ca for their favourite burger to help decide the People’s Choice Awards.

The Burger Ambassadors taking a bite include:

• Laura Montague, PTBO Eaters

• Dan O’Toole, BetRivers

• Neil Morton, Consultant/ Entrepreneur, 2017 United Way Peterborough & District Campaign Chair

• Tiffany Arcari, The Tiffany Show

• Nour Mazloum, Peterborough DBIA

• Pete Dalliday, TV Voice of the Lakers & Petes

• Jason Wilkins, Muralist/ Illustrator

• Paul Rellinger, Journalist, 2025 United Way Campaign Chair 

“The Ultimate Burger Battle is a fantastic way to showcase the creativity and passion of our local restaurants,” said Nour Mazloum, Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area executive director. “It’s more than just a culinary challenge; it’s an opportunity to bring people together, celebrate local talent, and support a meaningful cause. I’m excited to see our community come out, enjoy some incredible food, and cheer on their favourite spots in the spirit of friendly competition.” 

“From the Adam Scott Cafeteria to Zeke’s — I’ve done the A-to-Z of Peterborough burgers,” said Pete Dalliday, Peterborough Lakers director of community engagement. “The Burger Battle just gives me another excuse to keep the streak going, support local spots, and have some fun for a great cause.” 

The Ultimate Burger Battle Passport is available to help track burger adventures, and anyone who tries five or more burgers will have the chance to become an Ultimate Burger Battle Ambassador for 2026.

Workplaces can also get in on the fun through ‘Ultimate Burger Battle @ Work,’ a team lunch initiative that lets staff order burgers together in support of United Way workplace campaigns. 

Proceeds support United Way Peterborough & District’s network of local agencies and initiatives working to address poverty and strengthen community well-being. 

The Ultimate Burger of the Year, People’s Choice Winners and Most Burgers Sold will be crowned in early December.

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Fleming College Launches 'Fleming Ignites Magazine' To Highlight Its Community and Creative Impact

The first issue of Fleming Ignites Magazine has been released, Fleming College’s new publication dedicated to celebrating its people, achievements and stories of its institution.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Available in both print and digital formats, Fleming Ignites Magazine marks a new chapter in how the College shares its story, honouring its roots while embracing fresh and engaging ways to spotlight the energy, innovation, and community spirit that define Fleming according to Chris Jardine, Fleming associate vice president of marketing and advancement.

“This publication gives us the opportunity to share the Fleming story with purpose and clarity,” he said. “It honours where we’ve been while also shining a light on where we’re headed.”

The inaugural issue features a behind-the-scenes look at Fleming’s Apply Yourself Here campaign, a spotlight on applied learning at the Centre for Innovative Aquaculture Production and inspiring stories of student success and award-winning projects. The magazine also shows how the College is helping to meet workforce demands in healthcare and skilled trades. They’ll discover how alumni are making an impact in their fields, explore how faculty are leading research with real-world applications, and celebrate three generations of creativity at the Haliburton School of Art & Design.

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Peterborough Man Who Sprinted Onto Field From Last Blue Jays World Series Win Draws Parallels to This Year's Run

Peterborough’s Mark Astrom ran onto the field to celebrate with the Toronto Blue Jays after Joe Carter hit a walk-off home run to win their last World Series in 1993.

Those memories remain vivid 32 years later, especially after Blue Jays outfielder George Springer hit a three-run home run in Game Seven to get Toronto to this year’s World Series from Monday night.

Astrom points to himself 32 years ago when he joined the Blue Jays celebrating Joe Carter’s home run in 1993. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Pitch by pitch, I was an absolute disaster leading up to that. I was pretty nervous, invested and pretty much in the game with the team,” explained Astrom. “I wanted to see them get there for the first time in 32 years. When that went out, everyone in our house got out of their seats and celebrated with them.”

The Blue Jays have had momentous home runs throughout their franchise, including Carter’s walk-off World Series home run in 1993 and José Bautista’s bat-flip home run in the 2015 American League Division Series. Astrom says Springer’s home run brings back familiar feelings.

“The sequence of his at-bat and even his reaction along the first-base line of jumping up and down was actually similar to Joe Carter's so that was a neat parallel.”

When Carter hit the home run, Astrom was around the tenth row behind the dugout. He jumped over the dugout, raced to home plate and started celebrating with the team.

“It was a matter of celebration, positivity and being a huge fan obviously,” explained Astom. “I remember (Roberto) Alomar's hand was on my back, my back on (Rickey) Henderson's back and we were just making space for him (Carter) to come down to home plate and just celebrated. It was an incredible moment in Toronto sports history.”

Since Monday, Peterborough has seemingly developed ‘Blue Jays Fever’ where businesses, organizations and communities are rallying behind the Blue Jays for another World Series win. Several places are decorated in Blue Jays decorations, team apparel is being worn in workplaces and restaurants feature menu specials revolving around the Blue Jays’ success this season.

Astrom says that moments like these in sports unite the community and create a positive epidemic.

“The beauty of live sports is for something as huge as the Blue Jays being back in the World Series in 32 years, it's going to bring together because they're going to be focused on what's on television or wherever they're watching it; but everyone's watching it live at the same and it's a beautiful thing.”

The Blue Jays start the World Series final against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game One at the Rogers Centre on Friday at 8 p.m.

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City of Peterborough Launches Interactive Map Showcasing Halloween-Ready Highlights

The community is invited to contribute their favourite haunts and spooky Halloween displays at homes and businesses by sharing locations for the City of Peterborough interactive fall display map and guide.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Created by the City’s Geomatics and Mapping program area, the interactive tool is designed to encourage locals and visitors to explore different parts of the city and showcase the community’s celebration of fall and Halloween.

The map will also highlight locations featured on the Trent Valley Archives’ guided ghost walks. The ghost walks are ticketed experiences taking place in late October and available for purchase through the Trent Valley Archives website.

Residents and businesses can submit their address to be included in the 2025 Fall Display Map by uploading at least one photo and requesting information through an online form on the City of Peterborough’s website.

To be eligible, displays must be visible from a public location such as the street or sidewalk. Submissions to the map will be accepted until Oct. 31..

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Peterborough County Launches Circular County Community Hub

To empower residents and local businesses to adopt sustainable living practices based on the principles of a circular economy, Peterborough County has developed a Circular County Community Hub on Engage Peterborough County.

October is recognized nationally as Circular Economy Month. Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.

The Hub is built around sharing, reusing, repairing and recycling. The platform connects community members with local resources to help them reduce waste, extend the life of everyday items, save money and build a greener, more resilient Peterborough County according to a press release. 

The County says its current ‘take-use-dispose’ system is no longer sustainable. The project’s goal is that residents and businesses will engage in the platform and share their ideas to help offer practical, local solutions that help Peterborough County shift toward a circular economy, where materials are kept in use for as long as 
possible. 

Key features of the Hub:

• Interactive Share, Reuse, Repair, Recycle Map: Find local businesses and organizations that support sustainable practices, from repair shops to donation centers.

• Community Engagement: Participate in forums, share ideas, and stay informed.

• News Feed: Stay informed on upcoming Circular Economy events.