HPK and Peterborough Public Health Vote to Merge By Jan. 1 Next Year

The Boards of Health for the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) are seeking provincial approval and funding to merge during a virtual press conference on Wednesday afternoon voluntarily.

Screenshot.

The decision was influenced after the Ministry of Health announced plans to strengthen the public health sector in August by offering one-time funding, resources and support to local public health agencies that decide to merge by Jan. 1.

“The province has informed us they have a three-year merger support fund,” said Dr. Natalie Bocking, HKPR medical officer of health. “The amount of that fund has not been disclosed and so we don’t know what the province has put aside to be available for those health units that are merging.”

Bocking adds that the total sum could be teased over the coming weeks. There would be an increase in funding even if the health units were unsuccessful or opted not to merge.

“All health units have been informed that we should expect a one percent base increase from the province in the next three years, in the absence of mergers for the health units that will not be merging of which there are many,” she explained.

Last November, a Joint Board Merger Exploration Working Group was established with representatives from both health units and external consulting firm Sense & Nous to prepare a comprehensive Feasibility Assessment Report according to a press release. These findings were recently presented to both Boards of Health for consideration to help make an informed decision.

Both Bocking and Dr. Thomas Piggott, PPH medical officer of health agreed that all funding aside, the merger had several benefits between the two organizations.

“The primary benefit is going to be strength in numbers and strength in capacity and size across a larger geography,” said Piggott. “It means that our critical capacity could potentially be improved. There’s a lot of opportunity to improve the strength of our programs and services.”

“There will be some time found when we look at streamlining of services and some efficiencies found,” said Bocking. “We will be able to put that time and any efficiencies found into additional programs and services.”

During their meeting on Feb. 15, the HKPR District Health Unit Board of Health decided to proceed with a proposal to merge with Peterborough Public Health voluntarily.

“We have been diligent in the timeframe provided to review and consider all possible outcomes and impacts of a voluntary merger,” said David Marshall, Chair for HKPR District Health Unit’s Board of Health. “Ultimately, we agreed that by merging with Peterborough Public Health we can strengthen our capacity to deliver exceptional public health programs and services and to better respond to the unique needs of our small urban and rural communities.”

Should both health units merge, the population serviced would be roughly 345,000 people, according to Bocking.

During their meeting last Wednesday, the PPH Board of Health decided to proceed with a proposal for the voluntary merger with the HKPR District Health Unit.

“Over the past several months, we have carefully examined how a merger can strengthen the services that we provide to our communities,” said Joy Lachica, PPH Chair for the Board of Health. “This process revealed that joining together offers us the best pathway possible to protect and promote public health and keep our residents healthy. We are thrilled to start this journey together.”

The HKPR District Health Unit and PPH Boards of Health will submit a joint voluntary merger application to the Ontario Government by April 2. The application proposes how a proposed merger would benefit the communities they serve while supporting outcomes and priorities identified for public health by the Ministry of Health according to a press release.

Mergers of public health units require provincial legislative change which will not be definitive until the province has approved this and commits adequate funding for its success later in the year.

PPH and HKPR District Health Unit will continue operating independently during the provincial review period.

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

Fleming Phoenix Roundup: Feb. 28; Fleming Defeats Trent University 2-1 For Hockey Tournament B Championship

The Fleming Phoenix women’s hockey team took home a B championship over Trent University with a 2-1 win during a six-team tournament at the Lindsay Recreation Complex on Friday.

The Fleming Phoenix logo was unveiled for the college on Sept. 8, replacing the Fleming Knight. Photo courtesy of Fleming College.

Fleming kicked off the tournament with a win, routing George Brown/Humber 7-1. Jorja Peltier stopped all but one shot between the pipes. Abby Todd scored two goals, Kendra Keyes had one goal, Jordyn Brown had one goal and three assists, Carlyle Ouellet had one assist and Nikyla Trtik capped the win with a hat trick and two assists.

The Phoenix lost a tightly defensive game in a 1-0 loss by Durham/Ontario Tech in round-robin play.

In the B championship game, the Fleming Phoenix defeated Trent University 2-1, to take third place in the tournament. Megan Rivet and Hannah Schnurr each tacked on a goal for the win.

Durham/Ontario Tech won the tournament with a 3-0 win over Georgian College, while George Brown was awarded the Fair Play award.

The Phoenix men’s and women’s extramural hockey teams will participate in the RECCup regional tournament on Friday in Brantford.

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

Campbellford Memorial Hospital to Open New Dermatology Clinic

Campbellford Memorial Hospital (CMH) is opening a new outpatient Dermatology clinic operated by Dr. Ashley O’Toole.

Photo courtesy of Campbellford Memorial Hospital.

She is a Royal College-trained dermatologist from Peterborough having received her medical degree from McMaster University in Hamilton and completing her residency in dermatology at the University of Ottawa.

She is also an adjunct professor at Queens University, is a co-author of over 25 peer-reviewed publications and has been involved as a sub-investigator for over 90 clinical trials on conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, alopecia, acne, itch, glabellar lines and vitiligo.

The clinic is scheduled to operate on the first Friday of every month. It will cater to a wide array of dermatological concerns including acne and rosacea management, rashes such as psoriasis and eczema, and suspected skin cancers.

The hospital encourages all individuals needing dermatological care to talk to their health care provider. Referrals are already being accepted. 

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

City of Peterborough Selects Artist For Miskin Law Community Complex Public Art Installation

First Nations artist Vanessa Dion Fletcher has been awarded a commission to create artwork for the Miskin Law Community Complex including a twin-pad arena and a library branch.

Dion Fletcher is a Lenape and Potawatomi neurodiverse artist; her family is from Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiitt (displaced from Lenapawking) and European settlers. She graduated from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (2016) with a Master of Fine Arts in performance and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from York University (2009). Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Dion Fletcher will create the focal point for the impressive two-storey atrium, featuring an east-facing, floor-to-ceiling window at the main entrance to the Miskin Law Community Complex at Lansdowne and Park streets.

The artwork will build on the City’s commitment to create awareness of Indigenous cultures, peoples, and heritage. The commissioned work will provide insight into First Nations teachings, ethos and spirit of sport and the role sport plays in building relations. 

The new work, entitled Analogous Harmony (working title), is composed of three hoops or rings, painted with the visual texture, pattern and colour of quillwork. The rings are abstract forms that invite the viewer to see their experience with sport. The circular form evokes balls, tracks, hoop dancing, and the earth.

“I began by engaging with lacrosse sticks, hoop dancers, and canoes as forms of inspiration. I related these images to the feelings of movement that are evoked by my two-dimensional quillworks…,” said Dion Fletcher. “I now see my quillwork as an invitation to look and see what is within one's own heart and spirit.”

The artwork unveiling will coincide with the grand opening of the community complex this fall.

“Whether it was learning to ride a bike, paddle across a lake, run cross country or playing soccer, for me, sport is a conversation with oneself, the environment, and the creator,” said Dion Fletcher.

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

Monster Trucks All Out Northern Lights Party Revs Into Peterborough Memorial Centre On June 22

The Monster Trucks All Out Northern Lights Party of lights, music, and motorsports action is revving into the Peterborough Memorial Centre on June 22, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Monster trucks such as the Bucking Bronco, Canadian Crush, Out Foxed and more are battling it out in nonstop competition.

The show features a state-of-the-art light show plus a kid’s light show dance party. There is fast-paced Quad Wars competition as pro riders speed around the track.

Tickets go on sale on March 8 at 10 a.m. online, by phone at 705-743-3561 or in person at the PMC Box Office. Tickets are priced from $25.00 to $75.00, plus applicable fees (subject to change).

Child tickets are available for those aged 12 and under; children two and under do not require a ticket if seated on an adult's lap. Pit Party and Monster Truck Ride (age 3+) add-ons are available in limited quantities.

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

JA-NEO and CPD Partner To Launch Accessible Welding Program at Fleming College

Junior Achievement of Northern and Eastern Ontario (JA-NEO) and the Council for Persons with Disabilities (CPD) have launched the Accessible Welding Program in partnership with Employment Ontario and Fleming College on Tuesday morning.

Photo courtesy of JA-NEO.

The program is aimed at creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to pursue careers in the skilled trades according to a press release.

The initiative aims to address the underrepresentation of individuals with disabilities in the trades by providing accessible training and support.

“We are thrilled to launch this innovative program in partnership with the Council for Persons with Disabilities, Employment Ontario and Fleming College,” said John McNutt, JA-NEO president and CEO. “By fostering inclusivity and accessibility in the skilled trades, we can unlock the potential of individuals with disabilities and strengthen our workforce.”

The specialized curriculum will have tailored support services for the participants as they will gain the skills and confidence needed to thrive in the welding profession.

“We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their career aspirations, regardless of disability," said Rachel Quilty of CPD. “Through the Accessible Welding Program, we aim to dismantle barriers and create pathways to success for individuals with disabilities in the trades.”

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

Peterborough Petes Next Gen Game Raises Over $21,000 For Five Counties Children's Centre

The Peterborough Petes’s annual Next Gen Game raised $21,341 for Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) that was held on Feb. 19, announced on Tuesday.

Five Counties Children’s Centre provides speech, physio and occupational therapies, as well as other treatment services for kids and youth from birth to age 19 years. Last year, Five Counties served more than 6,200 children and youth in the Peterborough, Northumberland, Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton region – the highest number of clients in its nearly 50-year history. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The money is used to support kids’ treatment services at FCCC.

In 12 years of running the Next Gen Game, this was the highest total fundraiser since the partnership.

 “We are so grateful to the Petes, their fans and our other supporters for again showing their support for Five Counties kids,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “The funds will go directly to our Building Abilities For Life (BAL) campaign that supports high-demand treatment services at Five Counties. Through these funds, we can help to reduce wait times and ensure more children and families get access to the care they need when they need it.”

There were eight FCCC kids who enjoyed a behind-the-scenes experience at the game, ‘signing’ a one one-day contract with the Petes of working roles within their organization. They included general manager, coach, scout, PA announcer and more.

“The smiles on our kids’ faces lit up the Memorial Centre,” said Pepin. “The Petes were first-rate in creating the Next Gen opportunity, and we heard many good comments and compliments from the kids and their families about their experiences behind the scenes.”

“Every year this event continues to grow. It’s a great opportunity for families to come out and enjoy their Family Day while supporting other kids in our community,” noted Eric Ebenbauer, Petes director of sales. “We look forward to continuing this tradition and engaging with Five Counties clients for future Next Gen programs, which was presented by Tim Hortons this year.”

The Petes hit the ice at home on Thursday to host the Erie Otters for Pride Night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

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

Peterborough Man Arrested After Officers Discovered Impairment In Lansdowne Street Parking Lot

A 43-year-old Peterborough man is facing charges after an incident Monday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 7:56 p.m. a man was at a Lansdowne Street West parking lot where officers believed the driver was under the influence of alcohol. He failed to comply with the officer’s breath demand and was arrested.

The man wass arrested and charged with:

• Failure or refusal to comply with demand

The accused is being held in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday.

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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

Juno-Award Winning Rock Band Billy Talent to Take Centre Stage At the Peterborough Memorial Centre On Aug. 6

The Peterborough Memorial Centre (PMC) stage is going to be rocked as multi-Juno award-winning band Billy Talent is hitting the stage for Aug. 6, announced on Tuesday morning.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

The Canadian punk quartet Billy Talent spent the latter part of the 1990s building a hard-won grassroots following before breaking out into mainstream success in 2003.

Their Juno Award-winning self-entitled debut album went quadruple-platinum,. As Subsequent albums such as Billy Talent II and III went multi-platinum and to the top of the Canadian Albums chart.

By the time of 2016's Afraid of Heights, the band had become a highly decorated rock act with an international fan base and years of hard touring to their credit. After a six-year gap, they returned with their sixth set, 2022's Crisis of Faith, which landed three consecutive number one songs at Canadian Rock Radio, leading to two Juno Nominations.

Bands Crown Lands and NOBRO are joining Billy Talent as opening acts. Crown Lands is a Juno Award winning rock duo from Oshawa as NOBRO is an all-female Canadian rock band from Quebec.

Tickets go on sale March 1 at 10 a.m. online, by phone at 705-743-3561 or in person at the PMC Box Office. Tickets are priced at $60.99, $80.99 and $90.99 (plus applicable fees). One dollar from each ticket sold will be donated to War Child Canada to help to provide aid to children and families in war and conflict areas.

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

Combustibles Close to Heater Cause Evening Garage Fire On Ravenwood Drive

A light smoke and a fire broke out in a Ravenwood Drive garage on Thursday evening.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

There were 17 Peterborough Fire Services firefighters who arrived on the scene.

The first responders noticed the smoke from an attached garage and quickly extinguished a couch that was on fire without incident.

There were no injuries reported and the cause of the fire was due to be a heater too close to combustibles.

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