Photos: Peterborough Police Service Roll Up Their Sleeves By Giving to Canadian Blood Services In Holiday Blood Drive
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Peterborough Blogs
Mount Community Centre Purchases the Village On Argyle For Community Hub and Affordable Housing
/As of Dec. 1, the Mount Community Centre has purchased the Village on Argyle to transform it into a non-profit community hub that addresses food insecurity and provide affordable housing, announced on Wednesday morning.
Sisters of St. Joseph alongside Stephen Kylie, Mount Community Centre board chair (middle) and Michael VanderHerberg, Mount Community Centre secretary (second from right), after the formal announcement of their purchase of the Village on Argyle. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The Village was previously a college campus and served as a student residence covering more than six acres of land. The building is equipped with classrooms, lecture halls, a gym, an auditorium, offices, lounges, and a library, all accessible via an underground tunnel. It has a capacity of 260 people with 137 rooms and two private apartments.
“We know from numerous reports that Peterborough is facing a severe affordable housing crisis, marked by extremely low rental vacancy rates, rapidly rising rents, home prices outpacing income growth and a huge backlog for subsidized housing, forcing many residents, including families and vulnerable populations, into precarious or unstable housing situations,” said Stephen Kylie, Mount Community Centre board chair. “The Mount Community Centre believes that everyone deserves a place to call home and continues to pursue its vision of increasing the capital stock of affordable housing units in the Peterborough Area.
Upgrades to the facility are planned, with the Mount seeking to renovate the east and west wings into approximately 60 to 70 apartment units. However, the Mount will pivot on what renovations will occur depending on the demand of its tenants said Kylie.
“We have to figure out which tenants might use the dormitory concept,” he explained. “If nobody is interested in that, we're going to have to retrofit the whole building and create those self-contained apartments, so we'll be working on designs with the architect who has been identified today and work on a capital budget for doing that.”
The initial timeline for completing the project is three years but several factors could alter it according to Kylie.
“We'll do it incrementally based on availability of capital and construction times,” he said. “We’ll probably start with one wing, year one, we’ll get maybe 40 units going, year two, another 40 and by year three, it should be fully built.”
On July 2, the City of Peterborough passed a by-law amendment for 780 Argyle St. that would permit residential uses, community uses and neighbourhood-supportive non-residential uses, provided there is no association with a college or university. The City confirmed that the zoning by-law amendment will remain in effect from Aug. 5, with no objections.
“When we put our offer in to buy this place, our planner at the time said 'you should get the property rezoned' because we didn’t have the zoning we wanted,” explained Kylie. “We started the rezoning, it was concluded within a month. This property was rezoned for our anticipated purposes so that is huge cooperation.”
Due to the rezoning, conversations about prospective tenants can already begin said Kylie.
“We're working with one group, those clients could use the dormitory-style concept,” he stated. “They could actually move in today because the zoning is already in place but right now, we're working hard at getting the 'anchor tenants' so the health and social service agencies, we want to get them in here so we can build around them but they are also paying the commercial rents that we desperately need to get this project jump-started.”
The property purchase was another step in the right direction for affordable housing in Kylie’s eyes.
“As we announce the acquisition of The Village on Argyle, it is a celebration of the progress that has been made to date to address the issue of providing affordable housing in our community and the future growth of the Mount Community Centre redevelopment projects,” concluded Kylie.
Peterborough Police Service Give Citizen Recognition Awards to Seven Outstanding Residents
/The Peterborough Police Service recognized seven residents for their extraordinary actions in connection with several incidents in our community at its board meeting on Tuesday afternoon.
Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.
“We thank them for being engaged and willing to help fellow citizens or bring awareness to a crime in progress,” said Stuart Betts, Chief of Police. “While we don’t want anyone to put themselves in harm’s way, we also recognize that we sometimes find ourselves in compelling situations where we can help. In each of these cases, the actions of these residents made a difference in our community.”
The following are the recipients with Police statements:
Narissa C., Malory S., Matthew H., and Noah S.
While investigating an unrelated incident at Peterborough Square in March 2025, the officers were approached by the 14-year-olds who told them that they had seen a man with his pants down gesturing and trying to get one of the girls to join him in a washroom inside the mall. The four youths went out of their way to make sure this was brought to police attention and it resulted in the arrest of man who was charged with sexual touching under 16 years of age and failing to comply with a probation order. The youths remained on scene and provided statements. The man was convicted and was sentenced to time in jail. We thank these four young people for their courage to speak up and leadership.
James T.
On Aug. 6, 2024, James was with his wife in a bank on Chemong Road when a man rushed in, ran to a teller and attempted to rob the bank. James, in a moment of action and instinct, realizing what was happening, grabbed the would-be robber and wrestled him to the ground, where he was able to detain him until police arrived. As it turned out, the suspect was wanted in two other robberies that happened in April and July of 2024 and also involved lighter fluid being splashed on employees. While no fires were set, we recognize that this was very concerning activity. We thank James for his quick thinking, and selfless response. His actions assisted officers in solving three robberies and led to the arrest of someone who clearly presented a danger to community safety.
Ruban V.
On April 22, an 80-year-old man entered the Esso Gas Station store on Parkhill Road East and attempted to use the Bitcoin ATM machine. Ruban, aware that the man could potentially be a victim of a scam, called police and kept the elderly man distracted until officers were able to attend and intercept him to prevent him from using the bitcoin machine and becoming a victim of a financial crime. It was further learned that the potential victim suffered from dementia. We thank Ruban for being aware of the warning signs of possible frauds and scams, and his willingness to intervene. He truly made a difference in this resident’s life.
Zachary S.
On June 16, there was a call for service involving a 27-year-old man who was on the wrong side of the fence at the top of the Lift Lock. Zachary selflessly rushed over to this man and was able to grab and hold onto him until police arrived. Upon their arrival, officers could see the man’s feet dangling from the locks while he was being held by Zachary. Police quickly ran up to the top of the Liftlock and were able to lift the male back to a spot of safety where he was apprehended under the Mental Health Act. We truly believe the 27-year-old man would not be alive today without this intervention and it goes without saying that the act by this civilian saved a life. We thank Zachary for his actions.
Each received a certificate presented by Chief Stuart Betts.
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Peterborough Humane Society Pet Pantry Supports 155 Local Families and Their Pets
/The Peterborough Humane Society’s (PHS) Community Pet Pantry Distribution event provided families with pet food, supplies and other essential items this holiday season at the Peterborough Public Library on Friday.
Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Humane Society.
The event supported 155 community members and over 350 pets. It saved each household over $100 and helping families redirect those funds toward other essential needs according to said Shawn Morey, PHS CEO.
“Pet Pantries are a critical part of our commitment to keeping people and pets together,” he said. “Financial hardship remains one of the leading reasons families are forced to consider surrendering a beloved pet. By offering proactive support, we can reduce that pressure and prevent unnecessary heartbreak.”
Loonies on the Street Fundraiser Returns: Raising Funds for Kawartha Food Share
/The 25th annual Loonies on the Street fundraiser in support of Kawartha Food Share returned to Peterborough Square at the corner of George and Simcoe Streets on Friday morning.
The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers donated $1,000 towards the cause, while the Kinsmen Club of Peterborough gave $10,000 as part of their TV Bingo proceeds.
Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP, donated $250 and challenged Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP and Mayor Jeff Leal to match his donation. If theirs exceeds Smith’s, the MPP will match the increase.
A final count of all proceeds is expected to be released next week.
Kawartha Food Share is a central collection and distribution warehouse that partners with 37 member agencies, including food banks, food cupboards and other food action programs in the City and County of Peterborough.
Donations can also be accepted online.
@ptbo_canada The Bucket Brigade was back this morning for Kawartha Food Share’s 25th annual Loonies on the Street fundraiser at Peterborough Square! 🎅 #PTBOCanada #peterboroughontario ♬ Christmas - Axby
Community Care Peterborough Launches their 2025 Annual Appeal: Because We Care
/Community Care Peterborough (CCP) has launched its 2025 Annual Appeal, “Because We Care,” inviting Peterborough and surrounding areas to support community services that help seniors and adults with disabilities remain independent at home.
The inspiRation behind because we care: Meals on Wheels volunteer Patty Tipton. Photo Courtesy of Community Care Peterborough.
CCP credits Patty Tipton, a long-time Meals on Wheels staff member, as the inspiration behind this year’s campaign. After years of service with Community Care, Tipton volunteered following her retirement, returning to greet callers and visitors at the organization’s Peterborough office.
“Patty’s dedication shows what caring looks like in action,” said Danielle Belair, CCP CEO. “When people give their time or their financial support, they help create stability and independence for thousands of neighbours. This appeal celebrates that spirit of generosity and invites new supporters to join us.”
In the past year, Community Care Peterborough volunteers contributed the equivalent of 48 full-time employees, donating tens of thousands of hours across the organization. Volunteers deliver Meals on Wheels, drive clients to medical appointments, make friendly visits and reassurance calls, support home help and maintenance services and more.
Because We Care celebrate volunteers and community generosity.
During the 2024 to 2025 year, Community Care Peterborough supported more than 6,000 residents throughout the City and County of Peterborough by providing:
More than 50,000 Meals on Wheels deliveries
31,000 rides to medical and essential appointments
20,000 friendly visits and reassurance calls
9,000 home help and maintenance visits
“Our volunteers make our work possible, and our donors make it sustainable,” said Chris LeBlanc, Director of Donor and Public Relations. “Every hour and every dollar ensures that seniors and adults living with disabilities receive the care, connection and support they need to remain independent. Community generosity is the reason we can offer these services without barriers.”
Those who wish to support the 2025 Annual Appeal can learn more about the campaign, read Patty’s story and make a donation by visiting their website. Donations can also be made by phone and in person at any Community Care Peterborough office throughout the City and County.
Avant-Garden Shop Raises Over $2,000 For New Canadians Centre From Chocolate Bar Campaign; Anonymous Matching Donor Doubles Amount
/After selling Peace By Chocolate products, Avant-Garden Shop has raised $2,133 for the New Canadians Centre (NCC), announced on Tuesday.
In addition to the original donation, the NCC had announced that an anonymous donor had matched the total, doubling the amount to $4,166.
(from left to right) Jeeniraj “JJ” Thevasagayam, NCC executive director; Brenda Ibey, Avant-Garden Shop owner and Asuka Ballantyne Ono, NCC fund development officer holding up several Peace by Chocolate products that had been sold in-store since May. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
The garden and bird store started selling the chocolate in May with 711 products purchased. Each bar costs eight dollars, with three going to the NCC. Avant-Garden Shop owner Brenda Ibey could not be more pleased with the way the fundraiser went.
“It was fantastic,” she explained. “Our customers just loved these chocolate bars and as soon as I told them that three dollars for every bar was going to the New Canadians Centre, they would buy, one, two, three or more so they really supportive.”
The NCC said they were grateful for Brenda and her customers’ support throughout the campaign.
“Brenda’s generosity through Avant Garden and the Peace by Chocolate initiative is making a real difference for newcomer families in our community,” said Jeeniraj “JJ” Thevasagayam, NCC executive director. “Because of your support, NCC can continue delivering programs that create belonging, opportunity, and connection in Peterborough.”
Ibey heard of the chocolate company last Christmas and purchased a few bars for herself. She discovered that she could purchase them wholesale and Peace by Chocolate was based out of Antigonish, N.S.
The Avant-Garden owner is sponsoring a Syrian refugee, which coincidentally mirrors the backstory of Peace by Chocolate’s founder and CEO, Tareq Hadhad. The latter had his chocolate factory in his homeland bombed in 2012 which forced him and his family to flee to Lebanon before settling in Canada.
“I have a connection with a young Syrian fellow who we helped to sponsor to get to Canada and now we're working to get his family here as well and so they should be coming soon.”
Ibey thanked all of her customers who had supported the initiative throughout the months and continues to sell Peace by Chocolate products in her store. She may think of a new organization to support for the next wave of chocolate bars but says she was happy to be involved with the NCC.
“It's been a really amazing story, really amazing to get involved with to help these folks because they're in dire straits where they're living and we don't know how lucky we have it here in Canada,” she explained. “I just wanted to help in any way I could, and the New Canadians Centre is a great organization, and I thought this would be fantastic to do.”
Peterborough Mourns Passing of Former City Councillor Ann Farquharson at 68
/Former Peterborough City Councillor and local volunteer Ann Farquharson has passed away at 68 years of age.
Photo courtesy of Highland Park Funeral Centre.
She passed away peacefully in her home while sleeping on Monday.
Farquharson earned her B.A. (Hons.) from Trent University in 1981 and her L.L.B. from the University of British Columbia in 1984. She was called to the Bar of British Columbia in 1985 and to the Bar of the Law Society of Upper Canada in 1986. As a lawyer, she began practicing law in Peterborough in 1986 as a partner with Farquharson Daly (now known as Farquharson Law). She also acted as Human Rights Advisor at Trent University from 2000 to 2006.
The City of Peterborough flew the flag at half-mast in honour of Farquharson on Tuesday. She was a Town Ward Councillor who served on City Council from 2006 to 2010.
Mayor Jeff Leal released the following statement:
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ann Farquharson, a former City Councillor and a dedicated advocate for our community. Ann served the people of Peterborough with integrity and an unwavering commitment to making life better for others. Her leadership, her thoughtful voice at the Council table, and her years of service left a meaningful and lasting impact on our city.
Beyond her time as an elected official, Ann was an active and passionate community supporter, always working to strengthen the places and organizations she cared about. She will be remembered for her generosity, her spirit, and her steadfast belief in building a stronger Peterborough.
On behalf of City Council and the residents of our community, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Ann’s family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable life and contributions.”
As an avid volunteer, Farquharson served on more than 30 boards and committees, including:
President, Peterborough Law Association
Board member, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough (and a Big Sister for five years)
Director, Five Counties Children’s Centre
Provincial appointee to the Board of Governors, Peterborough Civic Hospital, where she chaired the Public Relations and Finance Committees
Founding member, Women’s Health Care Centre
Board member, C.H.A.N.G.E.S.
Board member, Fourth Line Theatre Company
President, Peterborough Chapter of the Trent Alumni Association
Board member, Peterborough Theatre Guild, Festival of Lights (Musicfest), Fairhaven Foundation
Member, Save the Market Hall Committee; Peterborough Youth Commission; Peterborough Centennial Celebration Committee
Chair, Citizens Advisory Panel on Flood Planning
Member, Veterans Wall of Honour Working Committee
Sponsorship Chair, Peterborough Flood Relief Concert Committee
Member of YMCA Fundraising Cabinet
Member of Women United (United Way)
Board member, Women’s Resources (current)
United Way Cabinet member (current)
A Celebration of Life for Ann will be held at Market Hall this Saturday at 2 p.m. In place of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice are encouraged.
The Rotary Club of Peterborough Name 2025 Paul Harris Fellowship Recipients
/The Rotary Clubs of Peterborough and Peterborough-Kawartha recognized local community members for their leadership and service contributions with the Paul Harris Fellow Recognition, presented at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club on Thursday night.
(From left to right) (Back Row) Kelli Grady, Betty Halman-Plumley, Margaret Hamilton, Catherine Hanrahan, Wendy Swain, Elwood Jones, Don Watkins, Maureen Crowley, Mary Smith
(Front Row) Linda Calverley, Ashley Bonner, Lorne Hamilton, Marcus Ferguson, Steve Paul, Len Lifchus and Brendan Moher. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.
Named after Paul Harris, the Rotary International founder, the recognition is for locals who exemplify the Rotary motto of Service Above Self through their leadership and service contributions within our community, the surrounding area or the world at large.
”Presenting the Paul Harris recognition together allows our clubs to honour these recipients as part of a wider Rotary family,” said Tony Grady, Rotary Club of Peterborough president. “It reinforces that our achievements in service aren’t confined to individual clubs—they’re part of a larger, collective effort to create lasting change.
The following local community members were awarded Paul Harris Fellows:
Youth Services: To recognize an individual who makes significant contributions towards youth (programs, services and/or related matters).
Linda Calverley: Having spent the past 25 years shaping the lives of girls through the Girl Guides of Canada. Linda has mentored girls from ages 9 to 17 across multiple units. She’s supported fellow leaders, organized camps and events, and inspired generations of girls to be confident, capable, and compassionate. Linda has lead adventure trips to Scotland and the UK, organizing national camps, and creating experiences that have broadened young minds and built lifelong friendships.
Community Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant leadership contribution to the advancement and betterment of the Peterborough Community.
Ashley Bonner: As the founder of the East City Community Hub, a grassroots network that began by helping vulnerable neighbours with errands and groceries, Ashley has supported local businesses, organized neighbourhood events, and rallied volunteers in times of need. Her signature project the East City Neighbourhood Yard Sale, created in honour of her late mother, has grown to over 100 participating homes.
Community Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant leadership contribution to the advancement and betterment of the Peterborough Community.
Lorne M. Hamilton: When the Kawartha Woodturners Guild lost their meeting space at St. Peter’s High School, Lorne reached out to potters, weavers, gourders, and other craftspeople, and together they formed what became The Artisan’s Centre Peterborough. With Lorne’s leadership, they found a home in Peterborough Square, a space that still buzzes today with creativity, learning, and community spirit. From children’s programs to accessible workstations for those in wheelchairs, Lorne’s vision has made art more inclusive and inspiring for everyone.
Vocational Service: To recognize an individual who uses their vocational skills consistent with Rotary ideals toward community and/or international matters.
Marcus Ferguson: Through his work with YourTV, Marcus has become the unseen historian of Peterborough. From city council meetings and charity fundraisers to sporting events and Rotary gatherings, he’s been there with his video camera, capturing the people and moments that shape who we are. Comparable to the Trent Valley Archives or the Roy Studio Collection, one could say the digital video archive Marcus has built will hold that same importance, telling the story of our community.
Environmental Service: To recognize an individual who supports activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of our environment.
Steve Paul: As the founder of Clean Up Peterborough, a small grassroots effort to keep our parks, trails, and neighbourhoods clean, Steve Paul has grown his endeavour into community-wide movement focused not just on picking up litter, but on rethinking how our city reduces waste, recycles, and reuses materials. Among his many initiatives is organizing the collection of used writing instruments and used pill bottles diverting hundreds of kilograms of plastic waste from our landfills.
Club Service for the Rotary Club of Peterborough: To recognize a member for their outstanding service and dedication, each Rotary Club will select a member from their respective Rotary Club to receive this prestigious recognition.
Eric Steinmiller: As the co-chair of the club’s international service committee, Eric is a world traveller and a leader in developing and funding Rotary’s humanitarian projects in Nepal and Honduras.
Club Service the Rotary Club of Peterborough-Kawartha: To recognize a member for their outstanding service and dedication, each Rotary Club will select a member from their respective Rotary Club to receive this prestigious recognition.
Len Lifchus: A dedicated Rotarian for over 26 years, Len has faithfully served his club in many capacities most notably serving as club Secretary, President, and leading the club’s major funding projects. He has also served on the boards of numerous not-for-profits in the community.
On behalf of each recipient, the Rotary Clubs of Peterborough and Peterborough-Kawartha said they will donate the equivalent of $1,000 USD to the Rotary International Foundation.
The Nine Ships 1825 Inc. project also received a certificate of appreciation for their work and the community engagement created, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Peter Robinson Irish Emigration.
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Peterborough County Economic Development and Tourism Launch Kawarthas Holiday Digital Passport
/Peterborough County Economic Development and Tourism has launched the second initiative in The Kawarthas Quest series: the Holiday Magic Digital Passport.
Photo courtesy of Peterborough County.
