Trent University Supports the Creation of 100 New Student Summer Jobs

More than 100 student summer jobs have been created through the renewed Trent Summer Work Experience Program (TSWEP), providing undergraduate and graduate students at Trent University career experience through paid summer employment opportunities announced Friday.

File Photo.

"While a summer job provides an important opportunity for university students to earn income, it also offers an excellent opportunity for personal and professional development by building connections and developing skills that will serve them well in their future career paths," explains Dr. Michael Khan, provost and vice-president Academic. “The Trent Summer Work Experience Program is one of the many ways Trent equips students with guaranteed career-building experiences alongside leading faculty and staff from across the University.”

A joint initiative of Careerspace and the Office of the Registrar, TSWEP provided funding support to create both part-time and full-time employment opportunities for Trent students this summer.

Through the program, positions were created in more than 60 departments at the University including the Office of Student Affairs, Housing Services, Bata Library, External Relations and Advancement, as well as within academic departments.

These positions allow students to access diverse hands-on work experience with opportunities to engage in research, marketing, data analysis, completing independent projects, assisting and developing ways to pivot department resources online.

“I’ve gained invaluable hands-on experience working for the Trent Community Research Centre,” says Momina Shahid, a Trent Business student. “TCRC has provided me with the ideal research experience as well as an amazing opportunity to work directly with members of the local community and community organizations.”

TSWEP covers the full cost of student salaries, at the regular student rate, for approved summer positions with Trent departments and faculty. To have been eligible for these new positions, students must be returning to study at Trent in the fall and have demonstrated financial need.

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Local Artist Turns Creativity Into a Fundraiser for Millbrook Food Share

Millbrook local Tracy Campbell is putting her creative juices to work for good by selling art prints to raise funds for the Millbrook Food Share.

Produce grown at the community garden in Millbrook. Photo courtesy of Tracy Campbell.

Campbell, originally from Nova Scotia, moved to Millbrook from Bowmanville with her family about three months ago.

“I was looking for some way to get connected, some way to get involved - kind of looking for that social outlet that’s been missing over the last couple years,” said Campbell.

She saw an ad in the newspaper calling for plot holders and volunteers at the community garden.

Plot holders at the garden pay a small fee to ‘own’ a part of it where they can grow their own flowers or produce.

The center of the garden is filled with flowers grown by the local garden club and the rest is maintained by volunteers who grow produce for the Millbrook Food Share, a member agency of Kawartha Food Share.

Campbell, who took up digital art in December as a way to give Christmas gifts to her family, began to take pictures of flowers at the community garden and transform it into digital art.

She is now selling a limited number of prints for $20 and donating the profit to the Food Share. She has nine copies left and will be selling them until August 1.

One print being sold by Campbell. Inspired by the flowers at the community garden. Photo courtesy of Tracy Campbell.

Prints are 8.5 x 11 and can be bought by messaging Campbell on Instagram @trayseelynne or @tracycampbellcreations.

Campbell will deliver the prints to anyone local to Milbrook, the Durham Region or Peterborough.

“I would love for this to be a repeat fundraiser,” said Campbell.

She says that she hopes to be able to create more pieces of art inspired by things in her community and share the money with other local organizations.

The Millbrook Food Share is open on the second, third and fourth Tuesday of every month.

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Peterborough Businesses Offered Free Rapid Screening COVID-19 Tests

Another step to battle COVID-19 is here as small and medium-sized businesses can access free rapid antigen tests from the Ontario Government.

MPP Dave Smith led the rapid test program for Ontario since March. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The launch of the Peterborough-Kawartha’s rapid testing initiative was announced by MPP Dave Smith with members of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Business Improvement Area on July 16.

Businesses with under 150 employees can sign up at the Peterborough Chamber website and can receive the testing kits within 24 hours.

Smith gave a private demonstration just outside his Water Street constituency office Thursday afternoon for PTBOCanada. The test is done with a swab that entered the sinus area through the nose, twisting three times for a sample before being combined in an antigen solution. The liquid is placed onto a testing kit and operates similarly to a pregnancy test.

Results take no more than 15 minutes but typically take three to five minutes according to Smith. He recommends that businesses test twice a week.

“It doesn't show if you are infected with COVID-19, that's what the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test does," said Smith. "What it shows is that you have the COVID-19 virus in your sinuses and you have the opportunity to spread it to someone else when you breathe."

Anyone testing positive or inconclusive must book a lab-based PCR test as soon as possible within 48 hours of the test.

Two test results indicating that the COVID-19 virus is not present in the sinuses. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Being able to test in a parking lot before employees enter businesses is a game-changer according to Smith.

“It could potentially prevent the likelihood of a fourth wave in just a couple of minutes,” he said. “You can find out if someone has COVID-19 before they actually enter the workplace If you stop COVID in the parking lot, if it never goes into the workplace and there's no chance of spread amongst your staff then you have a safe place to work."

“The testing kits can provide a significant level of safety for local employers and their staff. I would encourage all employers to look at the rapid testing program as another tool in their COVID toolbox,” said Stuart Harrison, President and CEO of the Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce.

Businesses and organizations that register can order a minimum of 25 individual tests by going to https://www.peterboroughchamber.ca/rapid-screening.html.

This portal will enable businesses to order their kits and select a time and date to pick them up from MPP Dave Smith’s Office located on Water Street.

Over 14 million people in Ontario have been tested with the kit so far which is more than any other province in Canada combined with just under one million according to Smith.

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New Environmental Sciences Pathways Between Trent University and Sault College Plants Seed for Sustainable Future

Trent University has reached a new agreement with Sault College to have a School of Natural Environment degree available on the Peterborough campus in two to three years.

Both institutions have signed four new articulation agreements, allowing graduates from Sault’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Forestry Technician, Natural Environment Technician and Natural Environment Technician Advanced Diploma programs to complete their Environmental and Resource Studies/Science degree at Trent, one of the only Environmental Careers Organization (ECO) Canada-accredited environmental science programs in the country.

“Over the last 50 years, Trent has gained a reputation as a leader in the field of environmental education, and we look forward to welcoming Sault College students to our School of the Environment, where we offer unparalleled hands-on learning opportunities,” said Dr. Holger Hintelmann, dean of Science at Trent University. “This partnership builds on our commitment to creating pathways for students between college and university and draws on the strengths of both our institutions in providing environmental science programming that prepares students to address some of the biggest global challenges of our time.”

The new partnership gives students access to the broadest range of environmental courses available at any Canadian university, 12 on-campus nature areas and globally recognized experts tackling some of the world’s most complex challenges – from climate change to environmental policy and food security.

“Sault College is proud to partner with Trent University and offer our learners expanded and meaningful opportunities to continue their studies. This partnership is another great example of our commitment to enhancing the educational experience and providing innovative ways for our learners to learn and grow and build upon the quality education and foundational knowledge they receive at our College,” said Dr. Ron Common, president of Sault College. “Together with Trent University, we are providing a unique pathway for learners to pursue their passions and further contribute to this important area. We look forward to continuing a rich and long-standing relationship with Trent University.”

Both institutions believe in the importance of offering a range of learning opportunities to ensure transformative post-secondary experiences. At Trent, students will have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through on-campus fieldwork or community-based research projects. They can also take advantage of international study opportunities that offer a global perspective on the environment.

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Hunter Street Mural Celebrates Multiculturalism in Peterborough

Artists Miguel Hernández Autorino and Cassandra Lee completed a mural on one of four designated plots on Hunter Street as part of the Renaissance on Hunter Road Mural Project.

Miguel Hernández Autorino and Cassandra Lee sit on their Hunter Street Mural. Photo Courtesy of Hernández Autorino.

Hernández Autorino and Lee created a piece called “Picnic By The Water” inspired by the Canadian landscape and nature which Hernández Autorino says is the most beautiful part of the country. He wanted the piece to encompass the multiculturalism that is so important in Peterborough.

Before the piece was completed, community members from countries like Korea, Singapore, the Philippines and Egypt were invited to paint “Hello” in their country’s language on the mural.

A community member paints “Hello” on Picnic By The Water. Photo Courtesy of Miguel Hernández Autorino.

Those that participated came from the New Canadians Centre where Hernández Autorino was a client when he arrived in Canada from Venezuela in 2016. He is now a volunteer for them.

“I hope this piece brings awareness to all the different cultures that are in this town,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for people to see that we exist and we are a part of this community.”

Picnic By The Water is positioned on the biggest of the four plots that are a part of the Renaissance on Hunter project and Hernández Autorino considers that a big accomplishment.

“It is really inspiring for me as an immigrant artist,” he said. “It’s the first time I feel like I’m achieving something big. I’m an advocate for all the immigrants that are in the same place - we work so hard but sometimes it feels like we don’t get noticed.”

Picnic By The Water can be viewed on Hunter Street in the temporary sidewalk spaces created by lane closures between Aylmer Street and Chambers Street.

This project is presented in partnership with the Downtown Business Improvement Area, Green Up, Artspace Peterborough and the City of Peterborough. It was funded through the City’s Public Art Program.

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Warsaw Road Swing Bridge Reopening Delayed Until Aug. 7

The Warsaw Road swing bridge located on Parkhill Road East is expected to open for vehicle and pedestrian traffic according to a press release by Parks Canada for Aug. 7 announced on Wednesday.

The Warsaw Road Swing Bridge replacement project is part of the Government of Canada’s Federal Infrastructure Investment program. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

All mechanical, hydraulic and electrical components are onsite however issues related to the installation of the components have delayed the bridge testing and commissioning work to next week.

If the testing and commissioning go well, the bridge’s reopening will go as scheduled. If additional adjustments or modifications are required as a result of the testing, the bridge opening will be delayed until they are completed. 

Immediately following the reopening of the bridge, short intermittent delays are expected for operational testing. Traffic control measures will be in place during that time.

The bridge has been closed for a full replacement of the steel swing bridge structure, repairs to concrete abutments and replacement of mechanical and electrical operating systems. As well, the project has brought the bridge up to full highway loading.

Notable businesses near the bridge are Alf Curtis Home Improvements and Paterson Auto Sales & Service.

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List of City Services During the Civic Holiday

The City of Peterborough has released a list of facilities that will be closed or offer modified service for the Civic Holiday on Monday.

File Photo.

City Hall

City Hall offices, including Building Services, the Clerk’s Office and the Tax Office, will be closed. Online services are available at www.peterborough.ca.

Arenas Division

Kinsman Arena will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The Evinrude Centre, to be renamed Healthy Planet Arena beginning on Sunday, will be closed on the Civic Holiday.

The Arenas Division office will be closed.

Art Gallery of Peterborough

The Art Gallery of Peterborough will be closed on August 2.

To stay up-to-date with what's happening at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, please visit www.agp.on.ca or visit their social media pages on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Garbage, recycling and green waste

There will be no change to curbside collection of garbage, recycling and green waste.

The Household Hazardous Waste Depot and the Peterborough County and City Waste Management Facility (landfill) will be closed on August 2.

The Pido Road Recycling Depot remains open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more details, please call the City of Peterborough Waste Management Division at 705-742-7777 ext. 1657.

Peterborough Museum and Archives

The Peterborough Museum and Archives and gift shop are open from noon to 4:00 p.m. on Monday.

COVID protocols are in place, with full information online at www.peterborough.ca/museum.

Peterborough Public Library

The Peterborough Public Library will be closed on Monday.

Transit

Peterborough Transit will operate on a Sunday/Holiday service schedule on August 2. Please visit the website www.peterborough.ca/transit or call 705-745-0525 for detailed schedules.

Sport and Wellness Centre

The Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre will be closed on August 2.

Marina

The Peterborough Marina office will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on August 2. To contact the Marina, please phone 705-745-8787 or email marina@peterborough.ca.

City beaches

Lifeguards will be on duty at the two City-operated beaches at Beavermead Park and Rogers Cove on August 2 from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. All visitors are required to follow public health guidelines. If the beach is crowded, consider visiting at another time.

Provincial Offences office

The Provincial Offences office at 99 Simcoe St. will be closed on August 2. Fine payments can be made online at www.peterborough.ca/POA.

Social Services office

The Social Services office at 178 Charlotte St. will be closed. Emergency shelter services remain open: call 705-926-0096 after hours, during weekends and on holidays.

Child care centres

City-operated child care centres will be closed on August 2.

Public Works

Public Works can be reached at 705-745-1386. This line is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Local Olympians Help Canada Win First Water Polo Game Since 2004

Lindsay’s Emma and Claire Wright of the Canadian women’s water polo team defeated The Republic of South Africa with an impressive score of 21-1 at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics on Wednesday.

Emma and Claire Wright in Peru. Photo Courtesy of Wendy Wright.

The win improved the team’s record to 1-2 in third place in Group A. Emma scored a goal early in the game and logged 17:08 minutes of play time.

Goalkeeper Clara Vulpisi made her first Olympic appearance, stopping eight of nine shots which allowed Claire to cheer on her sister during this match.

“Outside the water, it’s like I have my sister here and it’s amazing but in the water, she’s my teammate and we’re both there to do a job,” said Emma.

The team is currently sitting third in Group A. This victory put Canada on track to make the quarterfinals where the top four teams from each group will compete.

Quarterfinals will begin on Tuesday.

Canada will face the Netherlands in their final preliminary match on Sunday.

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Peterborough Arts Alive Fund Awards $104,500 to 15 Local Arts Organizations

The Electric City Culture Council (EC3) has announced that the Peterborough Arts Alive Fund has received $104,500 in COVID-19 Strategic Recovery & Resilience Grants to 15 local arts organizations on Wednesday.

Photo Courtesy of Peterborough Arts Alive Fund.

Organizations receiving grants include the 4th Line Theatre, Kawartha Youth Orchestra, Market Hall Performing Arts Centre and The Peterborough Singers Choir.

Grants awarded range between $2,500 - $10,000 and support projects in artistic creation and development, PPE and public health upgrades, management and staff training/coaching/expert consulting, technology and digital upgrades, marketing and communications development and staffing.

Applications were reviewed and evaluated by a five-member peer assessment jury who recommended the grant amounts.

The initial idea came from local arts supporter Deborah Berrill. She leads a group of private donors who, along with EC3 and the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, collaborated on the efforts that raised $104,500 for the Peterborough Arts Alive Fund.

The City of Peterborough donated $40,000 to the fund.

“Local artists and arts organizations provide Peterborough with an amazing cultural life, one that we appreciated even more during the pandemic as their work lifted our spirits, offered us meaning and brought us together,” said Berrill. “It’s so important that we continue to support them through this difficult period and into the future, so they can keep doing what they do best.”

To view a full list of grant recipients, click here.

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Kayaking Duo Going Over Fenelon Falls Captured On Film

Two kayakers put on an unexpected show going over Fenelon Falls for restaurant diners that were caught on film on Monday.

One of two unknown kayakers going over Fenelon Falls. Screenshot.

The film was shot by Peter Witt while dining with his wife and another couple, getting a free show with their meal at a nearby restaurant.

The kayakers went one after another where the onlooking patrons said, “They’re going the wrong side,” or “Are they actually going over the Falls?” before taking the plunge.

The kayakers went over the Falls without apparent injury as they were met with cheers after hitting the bottom. It is unknown if the kayakers intended on riding the Falls but appeared to be experienced and did not show signs of panic.

“I’ve never seen anything like that before.”

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