Rotary Club of Peterborough's Annual Holiday Lunch Puts Giving Spirit On Display; Donation Amounts and Breakfast Club Awards Announced

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The Rotary Club of Peterborough’s Annual Christmas Lunch had its share of fun and giving at the Northminster United Church on Monday afternoon.

Rotarians and a FCCC representative with the cheque presented to FCCC of $8,500 from the Rotary Club’s “Fore the KIds” golf tournament. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The organization announced a total of $17,000 raised from its Fore the Kids Golf Tournament, held at the Katchiwano Golf Club on Sept. 25. Those funds are split equally ($8,500) between Five Counties Children’s Centre and the Rotary Club for their projects.

“I believe our portion of that is going towards the zoo legacy project, which is making an accessible playground at the (Riverview Park & Zoo) zoo a reality,” explained Tony Grady, Rotary Club of Peterborough president.

The Koeslag Cup was awarded to the Breakfast Club team that prepared the most nutritious, delicious, and elaborate breakfast for the children at Prince of Wales Elementary School. The Friday Breakfast Crew captured the cup, with Rotarians Nick Avlonitis and Doug Armstrong, as well as friends of Rotary, Linn Thain, Donna Burley-Chestnut, Jeff Clark, Dale Wilson and Brian Wilson on the team.

The team served the students Nick’s “world-famous” pancakes with chocolate chips, whipped cream, sprinkles, fresh fruit and chocolate milk.

The cup was named last year in honour of its creator, the late Peter Koeslag, a dedicated volunteer of the Prince of Wales Breakfast Club.

Before last year’s school calendar, Prince of Wales School had received two new ovens from the Rotary Club and Leon’s Peterborough. The breakfast program serves over 500 students and has a positive impact on their learning according to Brad Conlin, Prince of Wales vice-principal.

“We noticed a huge difference in kids having a full belly. They're coming down, and they're ready to learn when they get into class,” he explained. “When kids get into their classrooms without something to eat, we often see them disregulated and it’s hard for them to concentrate.”

Brad Conlin, Prince of Wales vice-principal (left) with Rotarian Nick Avlonitis, being presented with the Koeslag Cup. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The Club also awarded prizes for the best Christmas Sweaters:

  • Funniest sweater: Bruce Gravel

  • Most creative sweater: Marie Press

  • Best overall sweater: Bruce Clark

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YMCA of Central East Ontario Honour Two Local Community Builders with Peace Medals

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The YMCA of Central East Ontario has announced its 2025 Peace Medal recipients, honouring individuals who have made meaningful, lasting contributions to peace building in the community.

photo courtesy of the ymca.

This year, the YMCA recognizes Linda Slavin of Peterborough for her decades of leadership in social justice, gender equity and community building. Slavin has been an active participant in various community groups, including as a member of the anti-nuclear-weapons group Kawartha Ploughshares, co-founder of the annual One World Dinner, and co-founder of Peterborough’s Persons Day Breakfasts. She has also supported local women’s participation in the 1995 UN Conference on Women, advanced anti-racism initiatives with KWIC and participated in gender-equity efforts with Elizabeth Fry and community development efforts through the Social Planning Council, GreenUP and For Our Grandchildren.

The YMCA says Linda’s impact is felt widely across the community, and she is regarded by many as one of Peterborough’s most inspiring and deserving champions of peace.

“Our Peace Medal recipients demonstrate that peace-building is not one moment in time; it’s a lifelong commitment to lifting others up. Their work gives us hope and reinforces the YMCA’s belief that strong, connected communities are created when people lead with empathy, courage and purpose.” says David Allen, YMCA of Central East Ontario President and CEO.

The YMCA is also recognizing Lesley Kirton for more than two decades of service to Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes. Kirton is a dedicated advocate through MADD Canada, Victim Services, the Children’s Aid Society and human trafficking outreach.

They say Kirton has consistently modelled empathy, resilience and community responsibility, quietly delivering meals to those in need, supporting victims of trauma and empowering others to step forward and help. Her work has had a meaningful impact locally, nationally and globally, making her a deserving recipient of the YMCA Peace Medal.

Slavin and Kirton will be formally recognized at an in-person ceremony in 2026.

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Photos: Peterborough Police Service Roll Up Their Sleeves By Giving to Canadian Blood Services In Holiday Blood Drive

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The Peterborough Police Service contributed to the community beyond their duties, earning the title ‘Holiday Heroes’ from Canadian Blood Services for donating blood and plasma.

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Mount Community Centre Purchases the Village On Argyle For Community Hub and Affordable Housing

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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.

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Peterborough Police Service Give Citizen Recognition Awards to Seven Outstanding Residents

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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

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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.”

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Loonies on the Street Fundraiser Returns: Raising Funds for Kawartha Food Share

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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

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Community Care Peterborough Launches their 2025 Annual Appeal: Because We Care

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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.

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Avant-Garden Shop Raises Over $2,000 For New Canadians Centre From Chocolate Bar Campaign; Anonymous Matching Donor Doubles Amount

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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.”

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Peterborough Mourns Passing of Former City Councillor Ann Farquharson at 68

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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.

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