Rotary Greenway Trail Lightning Project Officially Launched

As part of Bike Month in Peterborough, the Rotary Greenway Trail Lighting Project has launched thanks to several private-sector funds on Tuesday.

(From left to right) Tom Bennett of Stoneguide Realty, Scott Wood of Ashburnham Ale House, Dan Grady, C.E.O., Rotary Club of Peterborough Kawartha, Scott Murison, co-founder of Wild Rock Outfitters and Chris Woods of Barry Electric were project funders or contributors of the project. Several cheque presentations were held at the event by these donors. Photo by David Tuan Bui

Scott Wood, Ashburnham Ale House owner, spearheaded the project as a frequent user of the trail. The project will provide lighting on the trail from Hunter Street to Douro Street. His business is located right next to the trail which is visible to patio customers.

“I use the trail a lot,” said Wood. “I can’t believe how busy the trail is. “Many residents and visitors use this section of trail for evening walks, bike rides and commutes for groceries and other purposes. By providing lighting, people will be able to use the trail more comfortably after dark.”

Cyclists, walkers, roller skaters and dog-walking are some of the uses the citizens of Peterborough have to the multi-purpose trail. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The project started with a community engagement session in 2019, followed by City Council endorsement of the project in May of 2020. 

The LED lighting is being installed by Barry Electric with expected completion at the end of July.

The event was hosted by Sue Sauve, City of Peterborough transportation demand management planner with Councillor Keith Riel present to accept donations from project funders.

“We are getting an increasing number of requests from people to have the trail lit, said Sauve. “When they’re lit, it makes it a lot more comfortable for people to use them after dark. The City has a standard now where if we’re building a brand new trail, we’re providing lightning on the trail.”

Scott Wood (left) and Sue Sauve (right) posing at a boulder which is the site for a commemorative plaque to be placed in honour of the trail’s lighting system. Photo by David Tuan Bui

Along with Wood, the project is funded by the Village Business Improvement Area, Shimano Canada, Stoneguide Realty, Wild Rock Outfitters and the trail founder, the Rotary Club of Peterborough Kawartha. All of them were present to give cheques for the trail’s funding.

This is the second trail lighting donation the City has been gifted. In 2017, the City received an anonymous donation to light the Rotary Greenway Trail link from Water Street to the main trail, just east of the intersection of Water Street and Hilliard Street.

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Peterborough Petes Name Winner of Overtime Teacher Program

After a three-day voting period, Grade 7 and 8 teacher Marc-Andre Brisson of James Strath Public School has been declared the Peterborough Petes Overtime Teacher program winner on Tuesday.

Brisson was the first of four to receive his nomination on May 28. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

Voting began on Saturday through Monday for the four finalists including Amanda McIness, Daniel Murphy, Joanne Haacke and eventual winner Marc-Andre Brisson.

Brisson was nominated for his unique ability in developing personal connections with all his students. Whether discussing hockey or current news, he is celebrated for fostering an open dialogue with his students and ensuring that everyone is comfortable in the classroom.

For winning the honour, Brisson earns a Petes’ prize package that includes a Zoom call for his class with Rob Wilson, Petes head coach and goaltenders Tye Austin and Michael Simpson for their students.

All four finalists will receive two tickets each to the Petes home opener in the fall.

Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

“Having been nominated by a student to be the Overtime Teacher means a great deal to me,” said Brisson. “Students are extremely busy these days with online learning and for Cameron to take the time out of his day to complete the nomination process, it means a lot. I am so proud of the students in my class, and all the students at James Strath and their perseverance through this tough school year.”

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New Canadians Centre Holds Virtual Multicultural Day

New Canadians Centre is holding Canadian Multiculturalism Day to celebrate the contributions of the diverse cultures that make up Canada and its way of life on June 27 according to a press release.

Photo Courtesy of New Canadians Centre.

The virtual event features stories of our multiculturalism in Canada through performance, storytelling, film and food.

“We strive towards a multicultural society that celebrates the richness of diverse human cultures. When we celebrate diversity, we create community and we help all people to feel like they belong, to have hope, and to build confidence,” says Andy Cragg, Executive Director. “We know that people continue to be targeted for being different, made to feel unwelcome and excluded but we must counter this with hope and love, remaining confident that we can move forward in our pursuit of equity.”

Here is a preview of what to expect at the event:

Multicultural Showcase

Featuring new performances from the Ukti Centre for Movement & Arts, Irish Millie and Blue Wave Taekwondo, in addition to a rebroadcast of some favourite performances from past NCC festivals.

Stories from Our Community Radio-Podcast

Sharing the work of the Newcomer Radio Group, an NCC-Trent Radio project that has trained ten newcomers in the art of storytelling and audio production. Listen to their stories of home, transition, integration, and community on Trent Radio CFFF 92.7FM, www.trentradio.ca (broadcast time TBD) and online via podcasting platforms (Google, Apple, Spotify) on June 27.

“We are the Radical Monarchs” Film Screening

This free online screening, in partnership with ReFrame Film Festival, introduces you to the Radical Monarchs — an alternative to the Scout movement for girls of colour, aged 8-13 - and touches on important themes of representation, allyship, equity and youth leadership. Register at www.nccpeterborough.ca/multiculturalism-day for a link to view the film between June 27 and July 4.

#CookWithTheNCC – The Aromas & Flavours of the World

Aromas, flavours, ingredients, who we cook for and how we share our recipes tell the stories that shape us as a community.

Stories shared thus far: - Jessie Iriwanto shares a taste of Indonesian culture with her new home country of Canada - Newcomer Tuncay Alkan exemplifies Turkish hospitality by sharing his hummus recipe.

All performances will premiere on the NCC’s official website, Facebook page and Youtube channel.

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Otonabee Conservation Campgrounds Open For Bookings

Two of the Otonabee Conservation’s campgrounds, Warsaw Caves Conservation Area and Beavermead Campground have opened for their first bookings since Friday.

Seasonal camper Mike Fischer (left) is welcomed back to Beavermead Campground by Joyce Hyland (right) Gatehouse Attendant on the opening day of the camping season this past Friday. Photo Courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Both campgrounds were nearly at capacity; Warsaw Caves CA saw 92 per cent of sites booked while Beavermead Campground saw 87 per cent of campsites booked for the opening weekend.

Beavermead Campground site bookings are between 83-88 percent booked for weekends until the end of July while Warsaw Caves CA has more availability with 73-92 per cent booked. There is availability for mid-week bookings for campsites at both locations according to the press release.

While camping is now open, some of Otonabee Conservation’s amenities and services are still not available due to provincial guidelines.

Campground washrooms are open and basic supplies such as firewood and ice are available for sale. Showers and laundry facilities are not yet available but Otonabee Conservation is working to bring cleaning procedures in line with Provincial health regulations and hope to have them available soon. Boat rentals and picnic shelters are currently not available.

“We have been working closely with Peterborough Public Health to ensure that our visitors are able to safely enjoy the benefits that nature has to offer,” shares Jessie James, Otonabee Conservation Manager of Conservation Lands, “Our practices and operations are aligned with the latest provincial recommendations; that means some amenities must remain closed at this time but we are hopeful that we will be able to expand our services soon so that our visitors can enjoy all we have to offer this year.”

Meghan Rankin, Warsaw Caves Conservation Area Gatehouse Attendant, checks in a camper on Otonabee Conservation’s opening day of the camping season. Photo Courtesy of Otonabee Conservation.

Some trails remain closed, such as the Caves Trail at Warsaw Caves CA, where physical distancing and proper sanitizing cannot be ensured.

All closed amenities are clearly signed. Hiking, walking and biking have always been available at Otonabee Conservation’s properties during the pandemic.

The gates are now fully open at all properties, allowing access to seasonal amenities such as parking facilities, beaches, boat launches, and more, with physical distancing measures in place.

Campers wishing to reserve a campsite at Beavermead Campground and Warsaw Caves CA can do so online.

For more information about Conservation Areas, changes to services and amenities during the pandemic and FAQs, please visit otonabeeconservation.com.

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Fleming College Begins New Era With Brand Transformation

Fleming College has rebranded itself with a new logo representing the college’s rich heritage while celebrating its future outlook in a press release on Monday.

Fleming College’s new logo, a multi-coloured shield symbolizing sustainability and the natural beauty of our college campuses. Photo Courtesy of Fleming College.

The new brand system embodies the essence of all Fleming campuses under their new theme, “One Brand. One Community. One Fleming.” The principle behind the redesign is the brand statement, “Communities that ignite your passion for change.”

“Founded in 1967, Fleming College has been built on a legacy of innovation, inclusiveness and community building,” said Maureen Adamson, Fleming College President. “We are proud to unveil a new brand that honours our rich heritage while celebrating a bold, future-forward outlook – for the College, our students and the communities we serve – locally and around the world.”

The new design was crafted through consultation with stakeholders, including staff, alumni, donors, students and community partners. Indigenous partners and the international community made in-depth consultations and conversations for the brand’s design. Fleming’s marketing team worked with the Blazing Agency to develop the new platform and resources.

The shield signifies stability, protection and longevity. The lines within the shield form the veins of a leaf, symbolizing sustainability and the natural beauty of Fleming campuses and respectfully acknowledging that the College is situated on Michi Saagiig lands and the traditional territory covered by the Williams Treaties.

In the largest portion of the shield, the lines come together to showcase the letter “F.” With contemporary colours that represent each of the campuses and the natural beauty surrounding them, the new brand reflects Fleming’s commitment to providing the foundation for student and community growth.

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Peterborough's First-Ever Summer Concert Series Debuts This Week With Updated Acts

The Peterborough Memorial Centre will host their first act of their PTBOLive Summer Concert Series with performances on three consecutive days starting on Friday.

Big Wreck has performed in Peterborough on numerous occasions at places such as The Venue and Del Crary Park for Musicfest. Photo Courtesy of the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Opening the series is the Classic Albums Live night with Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” album.

The Jim Cuddy Band with special guests and musical duo Express & Company follow the opening act on Saturday.

Splash’N Boots rounds out the three-day series opener for a more kid-oriented show on Sunday afternoon.

Classic Albums Live will be the opening act of the first-ever Summer Series held by the PMC. Photo Courtesy of the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

More acts added to the series is Peterborough’s first-ever drive and drag show featuring the Drive’N Queens scheduled for July 14.

A drive-in movie night of “The Father'“ about an aging man who must deal with his progressing memory loss will be one of two films featured for the PMC on July 19. Twelve Mighty Orphans will be the other featured drive-in movie for August 16.

The Father was nominated for six academy awards, winning two for best actor and best adapted screenplay in addition to countless other award wins and nominations. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Memorial Centre.

The following is the current lineup of the series:

• June 25 Classic Albums Live performs Pink Floyd - The Dark Side of the Moon

• June 26 The Jim Cuddy Band with special guest Express & Company

• June 27 Splash N Boots

• July 2 Big Wreck with special guest Heaps

• July 9 The Reklaws with special guest Jesse Slack

• July 10 The Trews with special guests Adam & Cale Gontier from Saint Asonia

• July 16 Classic Albums Live performs Led Zeppelin's Zeppelin II

• July 19 “The Father” Drive-in movie night

• July 23 Chad Brownlee with special guest SJ Riley

• July 24 Drive’N Queens, Peterborough’s first-ever drive ‘n drag show

• Aug 7 Shaun Majumder with Ali Hassan

• Aug 14 Sinatra with Matt Dusk

• Aug 15 Mini Pop Kids Live

• Aug 16 12 Mighty Orphans Drive-in movie night

• Aug 20 Classic Albums Live performs The Beatles' Abbey Road

• Aug 27 Jackson Delta with Emily Burgess & The Emburys

Tickets are on sale now at the PMC’s website or by phone at (705) 743-3561.

Tickets range from $100 per vehicle to $200 per vehicle plus fees (vehicle occupancy must be in accordance with the highway traffic act.) Fans are encouraged to get their tickets early as space is limited as stated in the press release.

Food is available on site but guests are permitted to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks for the event.

The series is a collaboration presented by Peterborough Memorial Centre, Showplace Performance Centre and Market Hall Performing Arts Centre.

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City of Peterborough Celebrates Bike Month Highlighting Local Trails

June is Bike Month in Ontario and the City of Peterborough is spotlighting cycling trails and paths around town.

File Photo.

The month features activities including a city-wide online bike registration and a fun online quiz.

Residents are invited to share their cycling stories during Bike Month with the hashtag #ptbobikemonth.

The city is featuring Roper Park Trail that was built last summer.

Located near Ravenwood Drive and Parkhill Road, the 450m trail connects the neighbourhood, provides access to the amenities in the park and connects to the broader trail and cycling network in the City.

Trail donors Haig Kelly and Barron Cowan have donated to the City and County trail system for the last 25 years. The trail came after the neighbourhood requested a formal trail for a more welcoming space and help deal with muddy conditions. That initiative got Kelly and Cowan involved.

A plaque beside the trail recognizes the donors as Haig Sharon Kelly, The Kelly Family Foundation and The Barron Cowan Foundation.

“This trail is a real gem. The neighbourhood has embraced it, with many people of all ages walking and cycling along it,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “Thank you for your generous donation Haig Kelly and Barron Cowan.”

More information can be found at https://www.peterborough.ca/en/city-services/walking-and-cycling.aspx

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Trent University Raises Over $150,000 for United Way

Trent University faculty, staff and retirees have raised a record-breaking $150,936 for the 2020/21 annual United Way campaign for community organizations and services in need announced Thursday.

Photo Courtesy of Trent University.

The campaign launched virtually in October as The United Way committee was thrilled with the result and donations from the fundraiser.

“The pandemic created a crisis for the United Way: community need surged while fundraising activities became enormously more difficult,” says Dr. Marcus Harvey, United Way Peterborough campaign chair. “Trent’s response was crucial to this year’s campaign. For people who rely on the services of United Way Partner Agencies, the generosity of the Trent community can be life-changing.”

Photo Courtesy of Trent University.

Funding will go to various initiatives including 325 counselling sessions; housing supports for 200 people; spaces for 200 women and gender diverse individuals in our community to access social supports to build self esteem, manage stress and navigate healthy relationships; court advocacy and service navigation for 100 women; as well as supporting a Peterborough agency the ability to support nine people with barriers to traditional employment and who have experienced homelessness.

“Each year, Trent faculty and staff come together to support the United Way and our local communities,” says Julie Davis, vice president of External Relations and Development at Trent. “This year was a particularly challenging for many as we navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s been inspiring to see the generosity of our Trent community in support of the United Way, their partner agencies, and the people who rely on these vital supports and services – contributing to the largest gift to the United Way in Trent’s history.”

“Through the generosity of Trent University, the United Way and partner agencies successfully supported over 800 community members this year,” adds Jim Russell, CEO, United Way of Peterborough & District. “With thanks to Trent’s generosity community members struggling with mental health, emotional wellbeing, employment and housing received the support they vitally needed. We are truly grateful to the Trent University community.”

Trent has been supporting the United Way since 1965, raising over $2 million during that span. The campus has been Peterborough’s largest workplace partner in the Peterborough region.

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Four Finalists For Petes Overtime Teacher Program Finalized For Voting

One of four outstanding teachers will be declared the winner of the Peterborough Petes Overtime Teacher program in a vote announced Wednesday.

Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

Voting opens on the Petes website this Saturday at 8:00 am until Monday at 8:00 pm to crown the ultimate Overtime Teacher. Fans can vote as many times as they want for their favourite educator as each vote counts towards the end result.

The four finalists are Marc Andre Brisson, Amanda McIness, Daniel Murphy and Joanne Haacke. 

Receiving the first nomination of the four, Brisson received his honour on May 28. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

Marc Andre Brisson- The Grade 7 and 8 teacher at James Strath Public School was nominated for his unique ability for making personal connections with all his students. Whether it is talking about hockey, or what is going on in the news, he is celebrated for fostering an open dialogue with his students and ensuring that everyone is comfortable in the classroom.

McInnes received her nomination on June 4. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

Amanda McInnes- McIness works at St. Catherine C.E.S., teaching Grades 7 and 8. The elementary school teacher is recognized for her ongoing work in supporting students at the Peterborough Regional Science Fair (PRSF), and Canada Wide Science fair (CWSF). This year at the CWSF, two of McIness’ students took home the top prizes. 

Murphy received his nomination on June 11. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

Daniel Murphy- Murphy, an Educational Assistant at Highland Heights Public School, works with students in Grades 2-4. In his fifth year as an educator, Murphy’s positivity and dedication to his students throughout the COVID-19 pandemic impressed everyone around him. He is continuously celebrated for facing each new challenge with optimism and for prioritizing his students' needs.

The final teacher, Haacke received her nomination on June 15. Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Petes.

Joanne Haacke- Haacke teaches Grades 3-5 at James Strath Public School. Haacke is being honoured for her amazing work both in and out of the classroom. Not only is she extremely dedicated to her job as an educator, but she also serves as an assistant coach and is a chair on the board of directors for the Kawartha Komets.

The winning teacher will receive a Petes prize package that includes a Zoom call for their class with Petes Head Coach Rob Wilson and goaltenders Tye Austin and Michael Simpson. They will also receive two tickets to the Petes’ home opener for the upcoming 2021/2022 season.

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YWCA's Virtual Challenge Raises Over $28,000 For Shelter and Support Services For Women Experiencing Gender-Based Violence

The YWCA has raised $28,641 for their shelter and support services from their second annual Virtual Challenge that started from May 3 - 31 announced Thursday.

YWCA Peterborough Haliburton receives only partial government funding and relies on annual fundraising initiatives to cover basic operating costs. Photo Courtesy of YWCA Peterborough.

The online fundraiser was an initiative in support of local YWCA resources for women experiencing gender-based violence.

“The Virtual Challenge provides a unique opportunity to use whatever we have to make a positive difference,” said Ria Nicholson of the YWCA. “Whether that’s the courage to raise the issue of gender-based violence with our friends and family or the means to support the YWCA’s services by making a donation - every bit helps!”

Participants registered an activity online to accomplish throughout May and challenged others to match their efforts.

Activities were flexible, encouraging activities such as cooking, yoga or anything you could think of. The challenge was open to all ages to participate safely in their own way and schedule.

This year, participants who raised more than $250 were entered in a draw to win 1 of 3 prizes. This year’s winners are: 

• 1st Prize – Recliner (donated by Bennett’s Furniture and Mattresses) – Bethany LeBlonc 

• 2nd Prize – Home Care Package (donated by Swish Maintenance Ltd & Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre) – Alder Howe 

• 3rd Prize – Foodie Package (donated by Ashburnham Ale House, Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill, Primal Cuts, The Chocolate Rabbit & Sobeys Towerhill) – Patti Clancy, Kawartha Home & Health Care Services

“We hope that in seeing this compassionate community response, local women are reminded that they’re not alone – especially as COVID-19 restrictions begin to ease and opportunities to seek support become more available,” said Nicholson. “The YWCA is here, day and night, thanks to the support of our wonderful community.”

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