Peterborough Petes' Gavin White Signs Three-Year Deal With Dallas Stars

Peterborough Petes defenceman Gavin White is one step closer to the NHL as he signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Dallas Stars on Thursday.

White won an OHL championship with the Hamilton Bulldogs prior to joining the Petes. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

“It’s all pretty surreal,” said White. “I am super excited to sign. I’ve come a long way in three years and to be here right now is a dream come true.”

White, a 2002-born defenceman from Brockville, ON, was a fourth round selection, 115th overall, by the Dallas Stars in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. In 66 games last season, White recorded 10 goals and 46 assists for 56 points, and another nine points in 19 postseason games leading to a J. Ross Robertson Cup championship.

“On behalf of the Petes, I’d like to congratulate Gavin on reaching this career milestone,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager. “Since joining the Petes earlier this season, Gavin has shown continued progress toward his goal of playing in the National Hockey League, and this accomplishment is one step closer to that goal.”

White was acquired by the Petes on January 7 from the Hamilton Bulldogs. He has recorded 10 goals and 27 assists for 37 points in 42 games so far this season.

“This signing not only recognizes Gavin’s dedication but also the work of the Petes coaches and development staff, as well as Steve Staios, Matt Turek, Jay McKee and the entire Hamilton Bulldogs Organization, where Gavin began his career,” said Oke.

The Petes host the Saginaw Spirit this Thursday at the Peterborough Memorial Centre with puck drop scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Four Distinguished Canadians to Receive Honorary Degrees at 2023 Trent University Convocation

Joining the ranks of decades of esteemed honourees, four distinguished Canadians will be presented with an honorary degree from Trent University at the upcoming convocation in-person ceremonies in Peterborough from June 6 to 9 and June 12 to 13, and in Durham June 16.

file photo.

Trent’s highest honour will be awarded to leaders in Indigenous rights, provincial politics, performing arts, geriatric medicine, and the Canadian Armed Forces. The 2023 recipients include: a distinguished member of the Canadian military who advocates for Indigenous rights and awareness training within the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and Department of National Defence (DND); an award-winning Indigenous writer and filmmaker who has played a key role in the Indigenous cultural renaissance since the 1980s; a medical doctor and community leader who has advanced geriatric care and the study of aging across the country; and the former Ontario minister of Health who oversaw the province’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This year’s honorary degree recipients personify Trent’s strengths in Indigenous studies, health, aging, social justice, the liberal arts and sciences,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor at Trent University. “These individuals exemplify the spirit of challenging the way we think to make a difference in our communities, our province, across the country and around the world.” 

The following individuals will be presented with Trent’s highest honour at the 2023 convocation ceremonies:

Master Warrant Officer Moogly J.J.E.G. Tetrault-Hamel – Wednesday, June 7, 10 a.m. ceremony, Peterborough

Master Warrant Officer Moogly J.J.E.G. Tetrault-Hamel will receive an honorary doctorate of laws in recognition of his distinguished 21 years of military service with the CAF, as well as his robust Indigenous advocacy and impactful Indigenous awareness training within the CAF and DND.

Drew Hayden Taylor – Wednesday, June 7, 2 p.m. ceremony, Peterborough

Drew Hayden Taylor, of Curve Lake First Nation, will receive an honorary doctorate of letters in recognition of his award-winning career as an Indigenous playwright, journalist, filmmaker, humorist and author and his significant role in the Indigenous cultural renaissance, which has been gathering momentum since the 1980’s.

Dr. K. Jennifer ‘Jenny’ Ingram – Monday, June 12, 2 p.m. ceremony, Peterborough

Dr. Jenny Ingram, a specialist in internal and geriatric medicine and an outstanding community leader, will receive an honorary doctorate of science in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to geriatric medicine, dementia care and the study of aging that have impacted healthcare regionally, provincially and nationally.

Christine Elliott – Friday, June 16, 2 p.m. ceremony, Tribute Communities Centre, Oshawa

Former Ontario minister of Health and deputy premier Christine Elliott will receive an honorary doctorate of laws at Trent University Durham GTA in recognition of her service to Ontario, including as minister of Health from 2018-2022 during which she oversaw the province’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as her advocacy and volunteerism for vulnerable community members.

Further details of Trent’s in-person convocation ceremonies can be found at Trent’s website.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

YMCA Launches Buckhorn As New Camp Day Location for 2023

YMCA of Central East Ontario has Buckhorn as one of their new day camp locations for this summer 2023 announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the YMCA.

The camp is in partnership with the Buckhorn Community Centre and offers it to children ages 4 to 12 for six weeks. Each week has a new theme which is highlighted in games, songs, arts and crafts, creative play, sports, adventures and more according to a press release.

Camps will run from July 3 to Aug. 11 at the Buckhorn Community Centre located at 1782 Lakehurst Road.

“The YMCA is excited to add Buckhorn to our summer camp programs,” said Shannon Hunter, regional supervisor of aquatics and camp. “The Buckhorn Community Centre is a beautiful location with so much potential for experiential programming in stunning natural surroundings.”

Registration is now open online or in person at the YMCA Balsillie Family Branch.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Innovation Cluster Launches the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Program

Innovation Cluster Peterborough and the Kawarthas (ICPK) announces new partnership with Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) to foster entrepreneurial skills among secondary students through the creation of the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Club.

photo courtesy of innovation cluster.

As part of the KPR Pathways Initiative, the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Program is designed to allow students to develop entrepreneurial skills and encourage innovation and creativity. The club will offer four sessions on Ideation and Creativity, Business Fundamentals, Marketing and Brand Development. The program is open to Grades 9-12 students and equips them with the skills to plan, fund, start and run a business or social enterprise.

At the end of the program, selected students from the KPRDSB will have the opportunity to represent their school board at an Ontario-Wide Showcase and Networking Event. This event brings together students from different school boards across Ontario who have participated in similar entrepreneurship programs. The event provides an excellent opportunity for students to learn from each other, share ideas and expand their networks.

"We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to students and introduce them to the exciting world of innovation and entrepreneurship! This learning experience will help students build foundational knowledge and skills and empower them to leap out of their comfort zone and turn their ideas into something great," said principal of Teaching and Learning K-12: Secondary Focus Charlotte Filip.

The Cluster recognizes entrepreneurship's pivotal role in driving economic growth and development, creating job opportunities and promoting social and environmental sustainability. As such, the organization provides a broad range of programs and services tailored to support entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey, including high school, college and university students looking to advance their entrepreneurial endeavours.

"I’m confident the new Leap Zone Program will have a positive impact on young entrepreneurs from KPRDSB. These students will discover the resources available to them to start businesses in our region, and our sessions will help them build the entrepreneurial skills they need for success in the years to come. It’s exciting to think that these students will represent our region's next generation of entrepreneurs, and I can't wait to see what businesses they will launch in the future with our support,” said Senior Innovation Specialist & FastStart Program Manager Lindsey Irwin.

For more information on the LEAPZONE @KPRDSB Entrepreneurship Club, interested parties can visit KPRDSB's official website.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Peterborough County Council Approves 2023 Budget

The Peterborough County Council has approved the 2023 Budget at Wednesday’s meeting.

photo courtesy of peterborough county council.

The total increase is 4.93 per cent which includes a dedicated infrastructure levy of 2.5 per cent.

“Staff have brought forward an extremely fiscally responsible budget again this year. There are so many outside influences, that are beyond our control and yet together with our Finance Committee, we are bridging the infrastructure gap and fulfilling our mandate to our residents,” said Warden Bonnie Clark.

For 2023, the tax levy increase of 4.93 per cent approximates an increase of $19 per each $100,000 of residential assessment and equates to an approximate 3.9 per cent tax rate increase.

photo courtesy of peterborough county council.

Approximately 51 per cent of the total tax levy increase is dedicated to capital infrastructure, with the remaining 49 per cent supporting County operations and the External/Shared Services.

photo courtesy of peterborough county council.

Each 1 per cent levy increase is equal to approximately $507,000 of additional revenue.

“Our Finance Committee did not lose any momentum even though we had a number of new Councillors on the committee, they grasped the technology and tools quickly. We met our objectives using our system we implemented last year, and things moved very smoothly,” said finance committee chair Councillor Matthew Graham.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Electric City Football Club Re-Sign Angelika Mihalopulos and Daniel Oshana For the 2023 Rosters

Electric City Football Club (ECFC) have brought back midfielders Angelika Mihalopulos and Daniel Oshana to their 2023 roster announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of ECFC.

Mihalopulos played in 18 matches, playing 1,400 minutes during her first season with ECFC. Prior to Electric City, Mihalopulos played professionally in Greece in the Women’s Alpha division for AEL FC. She started 16 games and helped lead the team to a fourth-place finish in the Greek First Division.

“I’m excited to be back for my second season with the club,” said Mihalopulos. “The passion and backing from the community last year was unbelievable and I’m proud to be back representing all of you. I look forward to meeting all the new staff and players and reuniting with some familiar faces.”

“Having Angelika return to ECFC was a no-brainer,” said Randy Ribiero, ECFC men’s and women’s head coach. “We are delighted to have her sign for the 2023 season, and she will again be an important piece in midfield for us.”

Oshana joined ECFC last year playing for FC London in 2021. Oshana's big moment came after scoring two goals in the last 10 minutes to Scrosoppi FC to help his side overturn a 3-1 deficit. Oshana represented Team Ontario in the 2017 Canada Games, winning a gold medal.

“It’s a pleasure being able to return to Electric City FC this season,” said Oshana. “I’m looking forward to meeting and working with my teammates, staff, and the community. It’s a big year and I’m going to give it my all for the club and the greatest fans in the league.”

Oshana played in 20 matches and logged the most minutes of any ECFC player with 1,727 minutes.

“Daniel was a standout player for ECFC last season and we are thrilled to have him re-sign for 2023,” said Ribiero. “Daniel is one of the best central midfielders in League 1 and I think it is a matter of time before we see him make the move to a higher level.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

City of Peterborough Holding Drop-In Session For Rejuvenation of Earlwood Park

The City of Peterborough is asking residents for ideas on rejuvenating Earlwood Park at a public drop-in session on Thursday at the Kimsmen Civic Centre from 6:30 to 7:30.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

City staff are answering questions and seeking input to help meet the park’s needs. The park is located at 52 Earlwood Dr. with construction projected to start in fall 2023 or spring 2024. 

“This is a great opportunity to tell us what you would like to see in Earlwood Park,” said Sean Nailer, the City’s parks and recreation project manager. “Residents are asked to talk with members of their household and take part in the consultation to help identify priorities for the rejuvenation of Earlwood Park.” 

An online survey is open until 11:59 p.m. on March 16 for wanted to provide input. Paper copies are available in the lobby at City Hall at 500 George St. N. 

After the community consultation has closed, the City will post an update, summarizing the findings. Future information about the project and a concept plan will be updated on the Connect Peterborough project page as they come available. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Third Annual Painted Paddle Public Art Exhibit Tour in Downtown Peterborough

The Downtown Vibrancy Project will be holding an outdoor public art exhibit to celebrate the community’s connection to the water through a series of painted paddle installations across downtown Peterborough from March 3 to 24.

The Gardens of Peterborough residents' Joanne B (right) holding her painted paddle titled ‘Call of the Loon’ alongside Joanne W (left) holding her painted paddle titled ‘Spring in the Air.’ Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

Locals and visitors will be able to tour the Painted Paddle art exhibit by visiting a number of storefront windows scattered throughout the downtown through this art crawl experience.

Local artists and graphic designer Susie Armstrong painted one of the 31 canoe paddles on display.

“I was inspired to paint a pollination scene for my paddle. Peterborough is a hub for urban pollination gardens, and I see them everywhere on my spring and summer walks,” said Armstrong. “I hope to evoke a bit of warm weather with my painting, which depicts swamp milkweed, a pollination plant specifically enjoyed by monarch butterflies.”

Many creative community members lent their artistic skills to the Painted Paddle project, including executive director of the DBIA Terry Guiel.

“This is the third year we have run this project and it continues to be a success, bringing beautiful art to our downtown, raising funds to support a meaningful project, and inspiring hopefully thoughts of spring paddling.” Guiel remarks. "I am one of the artists and my painted paddle reflects on two themes on each side of the paddle, one being Every Child Matters and the other Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.”

Other local artists taking part in this year’s project include Samantha Chuisolo, Residents from Empress & Princess Retirement Residence, Salvador Haines, Bri Gosselin, Brooklin Stormie, Tim Wales, Nuin-Tara Wilson, Sarah St.Pierre, Jason Wilkins, Jenni Johnston, Terry Guiel, Raine Knudsen, Nichelle Leeson, Kate Powell, Val Yeo, Justine-Marie, Trent University, Ash Hughes, Hearts 4 Joy, Jeff Macklin, Tayler Morencie, Students of Lakefield College School, Karin McLean., Students of Thomas A. Stewart School, J McKay, Jennifer Baici, Ginny Stammers and Maggie O'Rourke.

The paddles will be displayed in store windows throughout downtown Peterborough including Bluestreak, Tragically Dipped, Watson and Lou, Art School, Cork and Bean, The Food Shop, The Night Kitchen, Avant Garden, Boardwalk Boardgame Lounge, Mark Jokinen Books, Kit Coffee, Chesler's Shoes, GreenUP, Cheek, Gerti's, The Toy Shop, Plant Goals, Cahills, Wild Rock, Tiny Greens and Bike!

The Painted Paddle exhibit will be on display until March 24. Exhibition paddles will be available for auction from March 3 at 8 p.m. to March 24 at 8 p.m. with proceeds going to support the DBIA and One City Peterborough Employment Program Partnership to create two part-time jobs through The Green Team. For the virtual auction visit the link.

To participate in a self-guided tour of the Painted Paddle, community members can access a full map of paddle exhibit locations by visiting the Love For The Boro website online.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Agave by Imperial Claims First Top Hot Chocolatier Title of DBIA's Inaugural Hot Chocolate Fest

Agave by Imperial has been crowned the first-ever Top Hot Chocolatier after 10 days of fan voting during the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area’s (DBIA) inaugural Hot Chocolate Fest competition announced on Wednesday.

Agave by Imperial opened back in early December last year owned by cousins and partners Manesh Chowdry and Jim Grover who also own The Imperial Tandoor on 554 Lansdowne St. W. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA.

The winning entry from Agave was their ‘Hot Churro-late’ consisting of Mexican hot chocolate made with cocoa and dark chocolate. It was served with two cinnamon and sugar-topped churros.

“We are so grateful to have won Top Hot Chocolatier with our authentic Mexican entry,” said Jennifer Gutierrez, Agave chef. “Chef Pablo Olvera and I worked on the recipe together and we are really proud of the recipe. In Mexico, hot chocolate is part of our culture, it's part of our everyday life. We love that this festival allowed us to bring a bit of Mexico to Peterborough.”

Hot Churro-late bested 13 other businesses with 14 other entries to claim the title. Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

Agave has received a hot chocolate-themed trophy and bragging rights for the year as a reward for their efforts.

Milk + Tea was the runner-up with their Bubble Pudding Chocolate followed by The Speak Easy Café’s Breakfast of Chocolate.

The first annual Ptbo Hot Chocolate Fest featured 15 over-the-top hot chocolate creations, hand-crafted by downtown chocolatiers, bakeries, cafes and restaurants. Cocoa creations were available to the public for both dine-in and takeout.

The inaugural festival ran from Feb. 17 - 26 where chocolate lovers voted online for their favourite creations by 14 businesses totalling 15 entries.  There were more than 1,000 votes cast during the 10 days of competition.

“Over the span of just 10 days our Hot Chocolate Trail map surpassed 11k views,” said Hillary Flood, DBIA communications and marketing manager.” The success of our very first Ptbo Hot Chocolate Fest lies heavily on the imagination and passion of our Hot Chocolatiers.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.