Local Nurse Authors Literature About Nursing Self Help With Book Launch This Tuesday at The Vine

Local nurse of 18 years, Shawna Longford, has authored her first piece of literature, ‘Witness: Bring present for your patients, your colleagues, and yourself,’ and is holding a book launch at The Vine this Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The book’s cover. Longford graduated from Trent University in 2005. Photo courtesy of Shawna Longford.

The book was initially meant as a self-help book for nurses but could be for anyone with front-line professions, according to Longford.

“My intention was to support new people and help prolong careers,” she explained.

Longford has laid out in detail who the book is for:

• Anyone who has served in a profession that has wounded them physically, mentally or emotionally

• Those who understand the costs associated with the jobs that require duty and sacrifice

• People who have experienced PTSD, moral injury, compassion fatigue and burnout

• Someone looking for a way to sustain their career in healthcare or human services

• Leaders and educators curious about ways to teach and support resilience

• The recruitment and retention of nurses

Longford worked on the book four years ago and completed it this past summer. It was edited, written and printed locally with the help of five other contributors.

Books are available during the launch, with Longford doing signings. The Vine will have complimentary appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks during the event. Signature cocktails and other drinks are also available for purchase during the launch.

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Mayor’s Task Force Created To Address Housing Future Growth

Mayor Jeff Leal has created the Mayor’s Task Force on Housing and Future Growth to bring together developers and builders in a forum to look at ways to support the construction of housing announced on Thursday.

File Photo.

Through an initiative supported by the Province of Ontario, the City of Peterborough has been streamlining development application processes to ensure the efficient processing of applications according to a press release. The work has included consultation with the development community.

“There is an opportunity to continue to build on the work that has been undertaken, to move our community forward, together,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “We need further input from the development community on any other opportunities for municipal support and to consider barriers to accelerating housing starts that may be outside of municipal control.”

The Task Force will assist the City as it works to meet its target of adding 4,700 new housing units by 2031 – a target established by the Province as stated by the City.

The composition of the Task Force will generally represent a balanced cross-section of developers or builders with experience in different housing units such as new single-detached houses on previously undeveloped land, rental apartments, redevelopment or intensification of urban properties, and mixed-use commercial and residential development.

“The City will need a mix of housing types and densities to meet its growth targets and to meet the needs of residents,” said Leal.

The Task Force is expected to report to the Mayor on its recommendations within six months.

Many factors impact the creation of housing. As a municipal government, the City grants certain approvals often influenced by provincial or federal policies. Housing construction is also greatly influenced by the financial considerations of the day, such as the labour market, the cost of materials and interest rates.

Although the City generally does not directly build housing units, the City’s Municipal Housing Corporation is exploring opportunities to develop around 700 units over the next 10 years as stated in a press release.

The province approved the City’s Official Plan in April. The Official Plan establishes how the community will grow between now and 2051. The vision from that guiding document will provide a framework for managing how the new housing is added to the community.

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Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation Funds Nearly $3 Million From Shorelines Gaming Revenue to City of Peterborough

Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation provided $2,934,300 to the City of Peterborough in Fiscal Year 2023 as its share of gaming revenue from Shorelines Casino Peterborough in a tree-planting event at Bowers Park on Thursday morning.

Since the gaming site opened in October 2018, the City of Peterborough has received $10,323,782.  Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

There were 70 trees planted to highlight the City’s use of $1.8 million from the host community revenue to support urban forestry activities. 

In previous years, the City has used its OLG revenue to help fund projects such as the construction of Quaker Foods City Square, building splash pads, supporting the new Canadian Canoe Museum project and expanding the City’s trails and cycling network. 

“Through investments in our urban forest to maintain the tree canopy and to plant new trees, we are enhancing the quality of life and well-being for the community,” said Councillor Joy Lachica. “Trees are incredibly important, especially in urban areas where they help filter pollutants from the air, contribute to stormwater management, and provide a cooling effect – an oasis amid the heat of the built environment.”

“OLG is proud to be a vital part of the City of Peterborough, said Kathleen Devine, OLG’s senior municipal relations manager. “Each and every year, 100 per cent of OLG profits are reinvested in Ontario to support provincial priorities. From critical infrastructure to important local programs, to community festivals, OLG’s profits are hard at work in Peterborough and all across our province to build stronger communities.”

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Peterborough Petes Cannot Find the Back of the Net In 4-0 Loss Against the Soo Greyhounds; School Day Game Sees 3,700 Fans

The Peterborough Petes tried to put on a show for the School Day game with 3,700 fans in attendance against the Soo Greyhounds but got blanked 4-0 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

With no scoring in the first period, the Greyhounds struck first on the power play. They cycled the puck well, resulting in a one-timed goal from Arttu Karki to get Soo on the board, 1-0.

The visitors kept their foot on the gas in the third period as they started their breakout from the defensive zone. Jack Beck stretched to keep the play onside as he crossed the blue line, corralling the puck and sniping it past Liam Sztuska for a 2-0 lead. The Greyhounds tacked on an empty-net goal and a garbage time power-play goal for the 4-0 to give them a win to start their three-game road trip.

The Petes will have to shake off the loss with a trip to the nation’s capital to take on the defending regular-season champion Ottawa 67’s on Friday night.

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Six Fleming College Alumni Nominated For the 2023 Premier's Awards

Fleming College graduates are making their school proud as six alumni have been nominated for the 2023 Premier’s Awards announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of Fleming College

Since its beginning in 1992, the Premier’s Awards have been a symbol of recognition for exceptional talent and are hosted by Colleges Ontario. The awards recognize a well-deserved spotlight on graduates across Ontario’s 24 colleges making significant contributions within the province and beyond.

These awards serve as an annual tribute to college graduates' profound impact on society and the economy through their dedicated efforts. Covering a range of categories including Apprenticeship, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Technology, the Premier’s Awards honour various achievements.

“Fleming is proud of the important accomplishments these alumni have made,” said Maureen Adamson, Fleming President. “They have made a difference in the communities that they serve; the fundamental fabric of all Fleming graduates.”

The following are Fleming’s nominees:

BUSINESS
Dylan Trepanier, Business Administration – Marketing ‘18

Dylan Trepanier has achieved remarkable success in his career. Dylan is Chief Executive Officer and founder of Eye Care Ontario, a business dedicated to addressing the vision loss crisis. Dylan’s team developed a ground-breaking virtual eye test, which received FDA clearance in the United States and approval from Health Canada as a Class 1 Medical Device. With over one million users served to date, Eye Care Ontario has created opportunities related to vision services at a scale never before possible. Through his innovative work, Dylan is revolutionizing healthcare and improving the quality of life for individuals with vision loss.

COMMUNITY SERVICES
Heather George, Museum Management and Curatorship ‘08

Heather George is a prominent leader in the Canadian museum sector. As Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre, she has strongly advocated for promoting Indigenous perspectives and creating opportunities for Indigenous artists and curators. She was elected as President of the Canadian Museums Association in 2021, where she led a national review of museum policies and their relationship with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Heather’s leadership in advancing reconciliation and promoting Indigenous perspectives has been widely recognized in the Canadian museum sector.

CREATIVE ARTS & DESIGN
Rochelle Byrne, Ecosystem Management Technology ‘12

Rochelle Byrne, the Executive Director of A Greener Future, takes centre stage in the powerful environmental documentary “Shoreline: The Paddle Against Plastic.” As producer, Rochelle embarks on a remarkable 430km paddle journey across Lake Ontario, using her passion to raise awareness about the detrimental impact of plastic on the environment. Amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, which hindered public cleanups, Rochelle’s determination shines as she paddles 18 days along the shores of Lake Ontario. “Shoreline” showcases the profound connection between recreation and environmental stewardship, inspiring individuals to join the effort in creating a greener environment for future generations.

HEALTH SCIENCES
Vanessa Raaymakers, Practical Nursing ‘21

Vanessa Raaymakers is a healthcare professional who demonstrated exceptional dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteering at a long-term care home in Toronto, she provided critical front-line assistance during a severe outbreak. Amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic, Vanessa utilized her skills, experience, and empathy to support residents, staff, and grieving family members. She played a vital role in implementing essential policies and procedures to ensure the safety of all involved, collaborating with health networks and public health authorities. Vanessa’s unwavering commitment to serving others highlight her remarkable dedication to the healthcare sector and her compassion for those in need.

RECENT GRADUATE
Naman Khandelwal, Global Business Management ‘19

Naman Khandelwal, a recent college graduate, has achieved remarkable milestones in his career, with a focus on commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. In his role as the Manager of Client Services, Naman focuses on bridging the gap between student needs and the services offered by the college. By leading a newly established customer service department, he worked to enhance the overall college experience for students by addressing their concerns and ensuring their needs were met. Through his leadership, Naman has become a catalyst for change, championing the rights and welfare of underrepresented individuals.

TECHNOLOGY
Evan Hall, Environmental Visual Communication ‘12

Evan Hall, CEO of Wittaya Aqua, is a leading figure in aquaculture technology, renowned for his data-driven solutions in farm and aquafeed management. He guided Wittaya Aqua to global recognition, winning the prestigious Global Aquaculture Challenge against 180 competitors and securing a $120,000 USD prize. Recently, the company secured an additional $2.5 million USD from investors worldwide, spanning Asia, the UK, and the U.S. Hall’s vision includes integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and enhancing forecasting capabilities, revolutionizing farm management through data-driven decision-making. His remarkable achievements propel Wittaya Aqua’s global success in the aquaculture industry.

The Premier’s Award winners are being announced at a gala event in Toronto on Nov. 27. 2023.

Nominate for next year can email advancement and Alumni Relations Office at e-mail alumni@flemingcollege.ca.

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Hometown PTBO: Musician Dan Hick and His Song and Memories About Armour Hill

This week on Hometown PTBO, Pete Dalliday talks with musician Dan Hick about growing up in East City, his sons aiding his music career and his song/music video about Armour Hill.

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Peterborough Police Dedicating Traffic Enforcement For October

The Peterborough Police Service is continuing dedicated traffic enforcement on the big four driving offences during October.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The four offenses are as follows:

• Aggressive Driving

• Distracted Driving

• Impaired Driving

• Seatbelt Offences

Since the beginning of the month, officers have issued:

• 32 cell phone tickets

• Three cell phone warnings

• Five seatbelt infractions

Penalties for driving with a handheld communication device:

First conviction:

• a fine of $615 if settled out of court (includes a victim surcharge and the court fee)

• a fine of up to $1,000 if a summons is received or if you fight the ticket in court and lose

• three demerit points

• 3-day suspension

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Peterborough Chamber Honours Institutions at 2023 Business Excellence Awards

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce held their 2023 Business Excellence Awards with an awards ceremony at Showplace Performance Centre on Wednesday night.

Hajni Hős, Hospice Peterborough executive director accepting the award for Employer of the Year. Photo courtesy of the Peterborugh Chamber.

The annual ceremony publicly recognized and honoured local businesses with a passion for excellence. 

Over 50 businesses and individuals were profiled in 22 categories.

The following are the nominees and recipients for their respective categories:

Local Focus

• The Boardwalk Board Game Lounge (winner)

• New Beginnings Building Services

• Peterborough GreenUP

Entrepreneurial Spirit

• Cheeks Ahoy (winner)

• Flossophy Ptbo

• Y Drive Canada

Health & Wellness

• Euphoria Wellness Spa

• The Spa + Clinic at Fleming College

• The Willow Studio (winner)

4-Under-40 Profiles, in memory of Kathy Windrem

• Ashley Bonner (winner)

• Ashley Flynn (winner)

• Lauren Hunter (winner)

• Laura Montague (winner)

Professional Services

• Engage Engineering Ltd.

• Fox Law Professional Corporation

• Lett Architects Inc. (winner)

Commercial Development or Renovation

• Key Design Inc. (Key Design Inc. Studio & Office)

• Peterborough Housing Corporation (Hunt Terraces)

• Peterborough Humane Society (Peterborough Animal Care Centre) (winner)

Business Student Leadership Prizes

• Emma Olstad (Trent University) (winner)

• Eesha Gupta (Fleming College) (winner)

Retail

• Living Local Marketplace (winner)

• Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre

• Plant Goals

Stuart Harrison President's Award

• Don Dyck (Kingdon Timber Mart, Kingdon Truss) (winner)

Micro Business

• OmniWorx Design

• Peterborough Currents Media Inc. (winner)

• Social Kat Media

Tourism

• Kawartha Country Wines

• Otonabee Region Conservation Authority

• Peterborough Museum & Archives (winner)

Businesswoman of the Year

• Nicole Truman (Fox Law Professional Corporation) (winner)

Green Initiatives

• Cheeks Ahoy

• The Land Canadian Adventures Inc.(winner)

• Peterborough Folk Festival

Skilled Trades

• Black Rock Developments

• Bruce Maly Plumbing & Drain Services Inc.

• Van de Bor Paving Ltd. (winner)

Hospitality

• Burleigh Falls Inn & Suites

• Nostimo By The Original Greek

• Taso's Restaurant & Pizzeria (winner) 

Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year

• Imad Mahfouz & Hashem Yakan (Levantine Grill) (winner)

Customer First

• The Boardwalk Board Game Lounge

• Chemong Home Hardware Building Centre

• The Willow Studio (winner)

Marketing & Promotion

• Community Futures Peterborough (winner)

• INSPIRE: The Women’s Portrait Project

• Showplace Performance Centre

Peterborough County Farm Family of the Year

• Todd & Jennifer Payne & Family (Asphodel Sheep Company) (winner)

Not-for-Profit

• Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region

• Kawartha-Haliburton Children's Foundation

• Peterborough Humane Society (winner)

Employer of the Year

• Engage Engineering Ltd.

• Gauvreau | Accounting Tax Law Advisory

• Hospice Peterborough (winner)

Business Citizen of the Year

• John Cunningham (Community Alternative Funeral & Cremation Services Ltd., Ashburnham Funeral Home & Reception Centre, Kawartha Aquamation) (winner)

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Market Hall Is Back To Provide Uplift Spirits With "Cancer Takedown" For Cancer Care

Market Hall is back for the second Annual Cancer Takedown as a 'spirit-raiser' for anyone touched by cancer for Nov. 9 at 7 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Market Hall.

The night shines a light on the mental burden of cancer and unites people through song, story and solidarity. All proceeds go to Cancer Care at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre.

Performances will be done by Melissa Payne, Kate Suhr, Linda Kash, Megan Murphy, Anthony Bastianon, Rob Phillips and Pol Coussée. It also includes people sharing their cancer stories.

Husband and wife team Rick and Amy Kemp founded the event. Rick has been a patient of PRHC since 2019 when he was diagnosed with metastatic kidney cancer. In May 2021, his battle doubled as he was diagnosed with a second primary cancer, CNS lymphoma.

“The mental battle of cancer is as tough as the physical battle. Some days, even tougher,” said Rick. “Let's find more ways to help more people get through the mental part.”

Donations can be made at the event or online.

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Lang Pioneer Village Gets Spooky With All Hallows' Eve On Oct. 27 and 28

Lang Pioneer Village is getting in on the spooky fun, teaching the origins and traditions of Halloween on All Hallows’ Eve set for Oct. 27 and 28 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Heather Doughty and Lang Pioneer Village.

This year’s event is a hybrid of both the Museum’s Historic All Hallows’ Eve and Spooky Halloween events that feature both historic and contemporary Halloween elements.

Tractor and wagon rides, party games, storytelling, maze walk, fortune telling, face painting, a monster bash and more are some of the activities being hosted at the historic village.

Hot chocolate, treats and hot dogs (for a fee) are available at the weekend. All children will receive a treat bag at the end of each evening.

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