Peterborough Blogs
Trent University Crushes Fundraising Goal Raising Over $117,000 For United Way
/Trent University's faculty, staff and retirees smashed their fundraising goal of $100,000, raising $117,847 for the United Way supporting those in need in Peterborough and Durham at a cheque presentation held at Bata Library on Thursday morning.
Trent's support and annual campaigns for the United Way date back to 1965 and have raised more than $2.7 million for the organization. Photo by David Tuan Bui.
“The enthusiasm and generosity displayed by Team Trent have set a standard for what can be accomplished when we come together with a shared purpose,” said Marcus Harvey, United Way board chair and Trent University Faculty Association executive director. “Trent's annual campaign will make a tangible, positive impact on the United Way and the agencies and individuals they serve.”
The campaign launched in October with fundraising events such as the annual kick-off BBQ, a chili cook-off and white elephant tables.
“I want to extend heartfelt gratitude to Trent University for their unwavering dedication and generosit,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Their remarkable efforts in raising funds epitomize the essence of community support, ensuring that the most vulnerable among us receive vital assistance. Thank you to the donors and campaign ambassadors at Trent University for your outstanding commitment to building a strong community. Together we can uplift lives and forge brighter futures.”
The funds will aid United Way in redistributing it to its community partners including its ‘Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy.’
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City of Peterborough Seeking Public Input For Bonnerworth Park Redevelopment
/The City of Peterborough is hosting a public consultation for the redevelopment of Bonnerworth Park on how to invest in the community park to enhance the space and add new recreation features.
Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.
Improvements are expected to start in the fall. Bonnerworth Park, located at 560 McDonnel St. in Town Ward 3, will become a new recreation hub according to the City.
“We are thrilled to see Bonnerworth being redeveloped into a community hub. Community parks contribute to healthy, thriving cities. Please help us ensure that the upcoming redevelopment of Bonnerworth Park will meet your needs today and into the future,” said Councillor Joy Lachica. “Whether you are a family with young children or a senior who would enjoy spending time there, we want to hear from you.”
“I live close by and have enjoyed the park in so many different ways throughout my life — the redevelopment offers so much potential,” said Councillor Alex Bierk. “I'm thankful for the community's support for the project so far. In the upcoming planning stages, we have the opportunity to reimagine the park to meet our collective needs and vision.”
A public drop-in session will take place on March 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre at 577 McDonnel St. City staff will be available to answer questions and receive input about which amenities residents would like to see in the park.
Everyone is invited to complete the online survey. The survey will allow participants to identify features they would like to see in the park and make suggestions to create an inclusive environment. Paper copies of the survey will be available in the lobby at City Hall, 500 George St. N.
Bonnerworth Park was identified as a priority project in the City’s Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study which identified key objectives to improve and expand opportunities to support recreation across the City according to a press release. Pickleball was identified as a priority sport to meet the demand for facilities for one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.
The Bonnerworth Park redevelopment will include 16 new pickleball courts, a bike pump track, an expanded skatepark and associated landscape and lighting.
The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on March 2. Once the survey has closed, an update summarizing the findings will be posted online.
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Trent Unveils Crest For University's Sixth and Newest College, Gidigaa Migizi
/During a special sold-out feast at the 48th annual Elders and Traditional Peoples Gathering, Trent University unveiled the new crest and colours for its sixth college, Gidigaa Migizi College.
With an anticipated opening of 2028, Gidigaa Migizi College will be built on the east bank of Trent’s Symons Campus in Peterborough and will include as many as 700 new beds for first-year students as well as classrooms, faculty offices, collegiate and student spaces. Photo courtesy of Trent University.
The name is in honour of beloved elder, alumnus and former assistant professor Doug Williams.
The crest is intricately designed by First Nations artist Jared Tait using a traditional Anishinaabeg woodland art style. It captures the essence of Gidigaa Migizi, whose name means spotted eagle in Anishinaabemowin. It reflects the deep-rooted First Peoples’ values and knowledge and the traditions of Trent and the University’s collegiate communities.
“The unveiling of the Gidigaa Migizi College crest, a masterful creation by First Nations artist Jared Tait, marks a significant addition to Trent’s vibrant colleges,” said Marilyn Burns, Trent vice president of Communications & Enrolment. “This new emblem is rich in symbolism and deeply connected to the legacy of Gidigaa Migizi, the namesake for our sixth college. It reinforces the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment that especially recognizes the First Nations of this territory and the complexities of our shared history.”
The crest features elements deeply symbolic to Gidigaa Migizi, incorporating his colours – deep blue, green and turquoise – and featuring the spotted eagle, related to his name and a pike, representing his clan, Maashginoozhe.
A human profile within the spotted eagle symbolizes ancestral connections, while a portal, an element in First Nations art, represents the link to culture and tradition. Artist Jared Tait drew inspiration from his heritage and the profound impact of Doug Williams-ban on the local Indigenous community.
“An important aspect of selecting Jared Tait for this crest was solidifying that his creative vision aligned with the college's foundational values and embodied the Anishinaabeg's rich traditions,” said Jack Hoggarth, chair of Anishinaabe Knowledge and Trent assistant professor from the Chanie Wenjack School for Indigenous Studies. “This choice reflects a thoughtful consideration of how art can perpetuate language and culture, ensuring the crest of Gidigaa Migizi College will be a meaningful tribute, honouring its namesake and the broader mission of Trent University.”
A special scarf featuring the new crest was created and presented to the elders and members of Doug Williams-ban' family at the unveiling. This symbolic gesture honours them as the first members of the new College.
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Kawartha Land Trust Receives $2.9-Million Investment To Help Protect 1,400-Acre Nature Reserve
/After a $2.9-million investment from the Province of Ontario’s Greenlands Conservation Partnership, Kawartha Land Trust (KLT) has purchased its largest conservation property of the 1,400-acre Hammer Family Nature Preserve announced in Trent Lakes on Monday.
(Left to right) Chief Keith Knott, Curve Lake First Nation; Dave Smith, MPP, Peterborough-Kawartha; Hon. Andrea Khanjin, Minister of Environment, Conservation, and Parks; Mike Hendren, Senior Advisor to the Ontario Conservation Community, The Schad Foundation; John Kintare, Executive Director, Kawartha Land Trust; Paul Downs, Chair of the Board, Kawartha Land Trust; Laurie Scott, MPP, Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock; Mayor Terry Lambshead, Municipality of Trent Lakes. Photo Courtesy of Stephanie Lake for Kawartha Land Trust.
The purchase is the largest in the organization’s 22-year history.
The property contains acres of forests, wetlands, fields and natural shoreline along Pigeon Lake. The preservation of this property ensures the protection of its important ecological values, maintains vital natural connectivity in the region, and provides future opportunities for public access and nature connection according to John Kintare, KLT executive director.
“Kawartha Land Trust is extremely grateful for the government funding partners and private donors who made this ambitious project possible,” he said. “The protection of this natural gem of the Kawarthas is an important investment in nature, in the Kawarthas, and Ontario at large. It was only through our strong partnerships that we were able to achieve such a positive conservation outcome.”
“The Ontario Land Trust Alliance (OLTA) congratulates Kawartha Land Trust on protecting the amazing Hammer Family Nature Preserve,” said Alison Howson, OLTA executive director. “The Greenlands Conservation Partnership protects habitats for many species at risk and has made significant increases in the availability of green spaces for the people of Ontario to enjoy.”
Funding for this project was also received from the Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund (NSCSF) and private donors. The fund helps conserve, restore and enhance the management of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and grasslands to help tackle the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss according to a press release.
Three-quarters of KLT’s Hammer Family Nature Preserve is home to tracts of forests and wetlands. KLT says this property's preservation will ensure that the vital ecological services it provides — clean air, clean water, and mitigating the effects of climate change — will be protected for current and future generations.
“The support and financial investments from the Province of Ontario, Government of Canada, and private donors, has resulted in the creation of a regional and provincial community asset,” said Kintare. “This conservation outcome would also not have been possible without the countless contributions of KLT’s dedicated community of volunteers, donors, partners, and supporters throughout our 22-year history.”
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Fleming Phoenix Roundup: Feb. 13
/The Fleming Phoenix had some close calls but could not pull out victories from their basketball and volleyball teams.
The Fleming Phoenix logo was unveiled for the college on Sept. 8, replacing the Fleming Knight. Photo courtesy of Fleming College.
The Phoenix men’s basketball team lost their final two regular-season games at home this weekend.
On Friday, a full house was at the Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre (PSWC) as the Phoenix hosted the La Cite Coyotes. The Phoenix had two strong quarters but lost 77-61 to the Coyotes.
The high scorer for the Phoenix was Shawn Blackwood with 22 points including nine rebounds, five steals, six turnovers and two blocked shots. Jason Diaz had 10 points with five rebounds, four steals and one turnover. Lystra White had nine points with five rebounds, two steals and one turnover.
The Phoenix welcomed the Algonquin Wolves to the PSWC for Saturday's final game of the regular season. The Phoenix had a solid second quarter in this close game but it wasn’t enough as they lost another nailbiter to the Wolves 97-92.
High scorers for the Phoenix included Jesean Wilson with 28 points, including four rebounds, one blocked shot and one turnover, Shawn Blackwood with 23 points and Orlando Carias with 12 points.
The Phoenix men’s volleyball team travelled to Kitchener on Sunday to kick off their playoff run against the first-place western division Conestoga Condors. The Phoenix had a strong start, winning the first two matches, 26-24, and 25-22 but could not hold off the Condors who took the next three matches, 25-16, 25-17, and 15-11 to lose three matches to two.
Phoenix Sam Deschenes had 20 points in the game including 18 kills, five digs and one ace. Phoenix Hunter Hoskins also had a strong game with 10 points, including nine kills, six digs and one ace.
The two Phoenix mixed doubles curling teams participated in the OCAA championships in Sault Ste. Marie from last week Wednesday to Saturday.
The mixed doubles team of Ben Potter and Miranda Jensen were held to 0-6 in the seven-team round-robin play but were awarded the Fair Play award for the tournament.
The Phoenix mixed doubles team of Cameron Fraser and Brook Parcels finished their round-robin play with a record of 3-3, moving them on to the semi-finals. The team came in fourth overall after dropping their game in the bronze medal match.
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Four Peterborough Officers Recognized From August Gunpoint Standoff At Car Dealership
/Four Peterborough Police Service officers were recognized at a Police Services Board meeting on Tuesday night concerning an incident at a car dealership in August 2023.
Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.
PC Mitchell Northey, PC Josh Gibbs, PC Nick Gannon and Sergeant Mike Self were recognized for their bravery and commitment to public safety in the situation. It involved an armed standoff with the suspect who held an employee at the business at gunpoint according to the police report.
The officers also administered first aid to the suspect after he drank a substance and collapsed. The man was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre but died. No one else was injured in the incident.
“If it were not for the brave actions of the officers involved placing their own lives in direct danger to save the lives of others, it is possible that this incident could have ended more tragic. The actions of these officers were heroic and that is why the awards committee and the Chief recommended that they all be recognized with a Board commendation,” according to a statement in a press release.
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Commercial Vehicles Restricted to Half Loads From March 1 to April 30
/Commercial vehicles will be restricted to half loads on the following streets in the City of Peterborough from March 1 April 30 to help protect roadways from damage during the spring thaw.
Photo by Keegan Beekers.
Airport Road from Sir Sanford Fleming Drive to the south city limits
Armour Road from Nassau Mills Road to Paddock Wood
Ashburnham Drive from McFarlane Street to Maria Street
Ashburnham Drive from Neal Drive to the south city limits
Bensfort Road from River Road South to the south city limits
Brealey Drive from Parkhill Road West to Lansdowne Street West
Carnegie Avenue
Crawford Drive from Sir Sanford Fleming Drive to 0.6 km east of The Parkway
Cumberland Avenue from Ungava Avenue to Carnegie Avenue
Dobbin Road
Guthrie Drive
Harper Road
Hetherington Drive from Richard Road to Woodland Drive
Johnston Drive
MacFarlane Avenue - from Trentview Road to Television Road
Maniece Avenue from Ashburnham Drive to Television Road
McNamara Road from Guthrie Drive to Driscoll Road
Nassau Mills Road
Old Norwood Road from Ashburnham Drive to Television Road
Otonabee Drive
Parkhill Road East from Armour Road to Trent Severn Waterway Swing Bridge
Pioneer Road
River Road South from Lansdowne Street to Bensfort Road
Sherbrooke Street from Glenforest Boulevard to the west city limits
Towerhill Road from Chemong Road to Fairbairn Street
University Road
Wallace Point Road from Bensfort Road to Driscoll Road
Whittington Drive
Woodland Drive
These restrictions are pursuant to By-law No. 12-044 and any amendments.
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Fleming Basketball Player Gaining National Recognition
/Fleming Phoenix’s Shawn Blackwood of the men’s basketball team has gained provincial and national recognition by being named to several honours.
Photo courtesy of Fleming College.
The Ajax native was named one of the Fleming Phoenix Athletes of the Month for January, an OCAA Athlete of the Week and a CCAA Athlete of the Week.
Blackwood attends Fleming for their Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician program. He joined the basketball team last month, averaging 27.5 points, shooting 59.4 per cent from the field and averaging almost 10 rebounds in his six games with the team.
On Jan. 30, Fleming lost a narrow 103-101 overtime road game to the Loyalist Lancers. Blackwood led Fleming with 30 points and 13 rebounds.
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Sonnet Insurance and Kawartha Credit Union Partner To Offer Home and Auto Insurance Coverage To Kawartha Members
/Kawartha Credit Union (KCU) and Sonnet Insurance have teamed up to provide home and auto insurance for Kawartha’s members.
Photo courtesy of Kawartha Credit Union.
