Former Peterborough Petes Captain Donovan McCoy Nominated For Hockey Gives Blood’s Dayna Brons Honorary Award

Sudbury Wolves’ defenceman and former Peterborough Petes captain Donovan McCoy is a nominee for the 2024 Hockey Gives Blood Dayna Brons Honorary Award.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

Over the past three seasons, McCoy has been involved in the Hockey Gives Blood player ambassador program in support of Canadian Blood Services. As a member of the Peterborough Petes, he played a pivotal role in organizing the largest player-led team blood drive and stem cell recruitment event ever seen in the CHL, according to a press release.

During last year’s Memorial Cup, he volunteered on his day off to engage with fans and advocate for the importance of blood donation.Since being traded to the Sudbury Wolves in January, the former Petes captain promoted the need for plasma donation alongside his teammates.

McCoy, a 2004-born defenceman, was originally selected by the Petes in the first round, 15th overall, in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection.

The Belleville native has played in 163 games over four years with the Petes, scoring eight times and adding 42 assists for 50 points. During the Petes OHL Championship, McCoy appeared in 22 games for the Petes in the playoffs, scoring twice and picking up eight assists for ten points.

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Voice of Business: For Peterborough to Grow, We Cannot Do It On Our Own

This week on the Voice of Business was a step in the right direction for the future growth and development of Peterborough.

Siddhartha Nath, Consul General of India, held his first meeting outside of the GTA. Joel Wiebe, our VP of Operations & Government Relations and Sarah Budd, our President & CEO were present and led this open discussion.

Consul Nath was hosted by Mayor Jeff Leal and CAO Jasbir Raina on behalf of the City and Warden Bonnie Clark on behalf of the County. They were joined by a group of local businesses for a discussion on economic partnerships with India.

Our focus of this meeting was to foster the relationship between the consulate of India and Peterborough. There were many issues discussed at this meeting. Several concerns were raised around the cap on international students and its impact on local postsecondary educational institutions as well as recruitment for local businesses, including long-term care homes. With a staffing shortage like this, we are risking the quality of service that goes into taking care of our growing elderly population.

The Chamber voiced the need for a strong relationship with India. Many businesses rely on bringing new Indo-Canadian workers to maintain their staffing numbers. Local businesses

are relying on recruiting workers from India for roles like IT. With the shortage of international students, this could in turn lead to a staffing shortage.

After the concerns were voiced by local businesses, Mayor Jeff Leal and Bonnie Clarke voiced their proactive solutions to Siddhartha. Leal emphasized the need to increase the visibility of Peterborough and let others know about the advantages of Peterborough. Clark reiterated that we need to work more with the Indian government to show what Peterborough can offer and form more economic partnerships.

Nath responded to the Leal’s and Clark’s comments stating that he would work within the consulate to address our community concerns and conduct further investment promotion for Peterborough. Nath also stated the importance of reaching out to the Indian Consulate if there were any more concerns. Finally, the echoing message was, “If we want to see Peterborough grow, we need more investment and investment,” said Leal. furthermore, a strong relationship with the consulate of India can help facilitate this.

Content provided by the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.

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Teachers for Kids Foundation Receives $10,000 Donation From 100 Women Peterborough

100 Women Peterborough continues its philanthropic ways and has donated $10,000 to Teachers for Kids Foundation on Tuesday.

At its meeting, 100 Women Peterborough announced that it has collectively donated over $200,000 to local charities since its inception. Photo courtesy of 100 Women.

“I am thrilled to share the lengths that this donation would bring about for girls in the community and would enhance their lives in the Peterborough area KPR schools by letting these budding minds participate in life-changing STEM programs, helping them break free from the cycle of poverty and financial constraints,” said Kerrie Magnus of Teachers For Kids.

Founded in 1986, the Teachers for Kids Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to addressing the needs of students facing financial hardship. The foundation supports various necessities including sports club registrations, sports equipment, meals to support academic progress and medical and personal needs according to a press release.

“The donation will surely make a significant difference, opening doors to college, university, and careers and fostering a brighter future for these young girls and women.” said Janie Kelly of the Teachers for Kids Foundation. “Together we can help shape a better tomorrow and we are extremely happy to receive a gracious donation from the women of our community.”

100 Women Peterborough and similar groups pool resources and select a cause to donate to. According to the organization, their approach enhances financial support for various causes and fosters a culture of sustained, informed, and engaged philanthropy, driving systemic social change with a focus on gender inclusivity.

“Together, our dedicated giving group is supporting a local charity uplifting students in our community, proving that collective generosity can transform futures and create lasting change.” said Wendy Hill, 100 Women Peterborough founding member.

The donated funds will be redistributed among dozens of female students to meet essential needs and help them pursue their dreams as stated in a press release.

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Peterborough Man Charged With Assault After Allegedly Leaving Two Women With Injuries

A 28-year-old Peterborough man is facing assault charges after allegedly leaving two women with injuries from an incident early Thursday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 12:30 a.m., officers were called to a residence in the Stenson Boulevard and Brealey Drive area about a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers located a man outside the residence and two women with injuries. The male was taken into custody without incident. Both victims were taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment.

The man arrested and charged with:

• Assault – spousal X2

• Utter threats - spousal

• Utter threats

Police learned that the accused was wanted on warrants out of Quebec.

The accused is held in custody and will appear in court on Thursday.

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35th Peterborough Folk Festival Releases First Wave of Acts; Calvin Bakelaar Announced as Emerging Artist of the Year

Peterborough Folk Festival (PFF) has stated its first wave of artists, declaring Calvin Bakelaar Emerging Artist of the Year for the 35th annual event which will run from Aug. 15 to 18, announced on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

New acts announced for the event include Greg Keelor, co-lead singer of Blue Rodeo, Brooks & Bowskill, Melissa Payne, Boy Golden Kalàscima featuring Andrea Ramolo, Jadea Kelly, Meredith Moon and Sonshine and Broccoli.

Other confirmed artists include Odario Williams, Polky, Quote The Raven, Mr. Sauga, Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, Evan Redsky and a Sharon Lois and Bram singalong with Sharon and Randi.

“We've got some big stars coming to play here at Nicholls Oval Park for free over the weekend,” said Rob Davis, PFF chair. “(There are) lots of regional-scale and national-scale artists. We really like to mix it up in terms of not only diversity and inclusion but also in terms of the genres of the music and appeal to a wide audience.”

Other festival highlights include the Children’s Village, Artisan Village, and Food Village. Activities at the Children’s Village include face-painting, family yoga, storytime and musical performances from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily.

The Artisan Village and Food Village includes items from over 50 local artisans, food vendors and community groups.

A second wave of artists will be announced on July 22, including the headliner for Aug. 17 and performers at downtown venues on Aug.15.

Bakelaar is a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter based in Peterborough. Originally from Listowel, he moved to town while he was still in high school. Since coming to the city, he has been a consistent attendee of the Festival and is honoured to be on the other side this year.

“It's the culmination of a lot of work learning and constantly trying to improve myself so it's a really incredibly opportunity and I'm really grateful for it,” explained Bakelaar.

He is the voice behind indie folk act VANCAMP. Originally a drummer, he learned to play guitar and write songs in 2020.

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Wild Loose Moose Spotted In Peterborough's West End Safely Moved Out of the City

A wild moose on the loose spotted in the west end of town has been safely moved out of the city by Peterborough Police Service and Ministry of Natural Resources, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Mary Ellen Waudby.

Numerous reports of the moose were made to the Police since Tuesday morning when it was sighted and the public was urged not to interact with any wildlife.

The moose’s whereabouts were to the Ministry of Natural Resources to help transport it safely.

The Peterborough Police thanks the public for their patience and reporting the animal’s sightings. 

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Trent University Receives $250,000 For Transfer Student Support

Trent University has received $250,000 in funding from the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT) to implement projects supporting postsecondary learner mobility, announced on Wednesday.

ONCAT is flowing over $2.8 million to support 39 projects at 35 colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes in Ontario. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Trent received the news by Dr. Adrienne Galway, executive director of ONCAT, Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, and Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan, president and CEO of Humber College on Monday.

“Transfer students are an important part of Trent University’s student body. We aim to serve their unique goals and needs and are thrilled to receive funding for three ONCAT projects that will help our transfer students succeed at our Peterborough and Durham campuses,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, Trent president and vice-chancellor.” As a transfer-credit friendly institution, we are pleased to strengthen our accessible pathways and tailored student supports.”

Trent has been ‘singled out for providing comprehensive student transfer services,’ according to a 2020 ONCAT report. The University continues to say that to strengthen transfer systems even further, they will use the new funds to implement the following projects: 

• Development of a new University Transfer Credit Processing Policy: Trent has been awarded $75,000 to develop a transfer credit processing policy. This policy will enhance internal processes and further reduce wait times for incoming transfer students through standard practices for everyone involved in credit assessments.    

• The Bridge: An Expansion for Transfer Students: Building on a successful and pre-established bridging program, the $100,000 awarded for this project will help develop a transfer student-specific stream centered on academic success and social integration during student transition. Trent will take a comprehensive approach to this project through consultation and design with students, faculty, staff, and curriculum designers.  

• Transfer Student Success: Identifying and Piloting Challenges, Solutions and Outcomes: Trent has been awarded $75,000 to develop tools that will assess, monitor, and improve transfer student academic success and satisfaction. The project will research and pilot skill development opportunities to assist student transition, while developing systems for future use to track success over time.  

“Empowering learners with accessible pathways to navigate their educational journey is key to helping them achieve their professional and academic goals,” said Dr. Galway. “The increased funding will promote improved transitions between institutions and programs, helping learners get where they want to go.”

“The Ontario government is proud to support ONCAT’s important work to make it easier for learners of all backgrounds to pursue their educational goals,” said Minister Jill Dunlop. “By facilitating smoother transitions and recognizing the wealth of knowledge gained through previous experience, we are fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment to advance student success in Ontario.” 

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Peterborough Lakers Hosting Second-Ever Pride Night This Thursday

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers have brought back its Pride Night initiative for the next home game against the Oakville Rock at the Peterborough Memorial Centre this Thursday.

The Lakers lost their season opener on the road to the Oakville Rock 13-10 on June 3. Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Lakers.

Sport a Rainbow will feature an online jersey auction via DASH. The Lakers will auction off specially created Pride Night jerseys and the proceeds will benefit Sport a Rainbow.

Fans are encouraged to sign up for their DASH account before game time. The auction will go live at 7 p.m. Thursday and conclude at 9 p.m. Friday.

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City of Peterborough's Every Child Matters Community Project Accepting Submissions of Kids Artwork

The City of Peterborough invites local youth ages seven to 11 to submit artwork for an Every Child Matters community project that honours the victims, survivors and families of the Residential School system.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Artwork should reflect the theme, “What Does Truth and Reconciliation Mean to Me,” and be submitted for consideration by July 15.

The artwork selected for this project will be used to create a design that will be painted on a sidewalk or trail crossing. This will create a place where residents and visitors will be encouraged to pause, reflect, and continue to learn about the legacy of residential schools and the importance of reconciliation.

"“Throughout the year, this space will serve as a powerful reminder of the legacy of residential schools, honouring the healing journey of survivors and families,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “It is a call to action to our whole community to engage in the ongoing work of reconciliation. The City of Peterborough, and City Council, remain committed to reconciliation and building positive relationships with our Indigenous residents and our First Nations neighbours.”

The project is expected to be installed in September 2024, aligning with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The location will be confirmed later this summer. Throughout September, the Peterborough Public Library will display an exhibition of artwork submitted for this project.

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Moose on the Loose In Peterborough's West End; Police Warn Public Not to Approach Wildlife

A wild moose is on the loose and was spotted in the west end of town in the Weller Street area on Tuesday morning. Peterborough Police Service urges everyone to avoid contact or conflicts with any wildlife.

Photo courtesy of Mary Ellen Waudby.

The Police have contacted the Ministry of Natural Resources with the latter offering tips for staying safe:

• Never approach a wild animal. Always keep you, your family and pets a safe distance away from wildlife. Dogs should be kept leashed.

• If a deer, elk or moose approaches you, back off and look for a tree, fence or building to hide behind. If the animal charges, run to the nearest obstruction (like a tree, fence or building).

• Leave orphaned wild animals alone (parents are often close by and will return for their young)

• Always drive with caution if wildlife may be in the area. Brake firmly if an animal is standing on or crossing the road, stopping if necessary. Swerving to avoid hitting a wild animal may result in loss of control and a more serious collision.

• If you see a wild animal while in your vehicle do not try to get closer. Do not feed it from your vehicle. When people feed them from their vehicles, it teaches these animals to associate cars and humans with a potential food source. This can lead animals to wait on the roadsides or even approach vehicles hoping to get food. This can cause traffic hazards and safety concerns for animals and roadway citizens.

• If there is an immediate threat to public safety, dial 911 or the local police service.

If the public has a sighting of the moose and it is safe to do so, please report it to the Peterborough work centre at 705-755-2001 or mnrf.pet@ontario.ca.

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