City's Social Services Division Given Rainbow Registered Accreditation

The City of Peterborough’s Social Services Division has been officially Rainbow Registered.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This accreditation, administered by Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce, reflects a commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

The Rainbow Registered accreditation process evaluates applicants on four categories of criteria:

• policies and practices are non-discriminatory and respectful of sexual orientation and gender identity.

• provides diversity and inclusion training for staff and contributes to public education on diversity and inclusion.

• demonstrates leadership and commitment to LGBT+ inclusion beyond its day-to-day operations.

• has established an organizational culture that is LGBT+ inclusive and affirmative.

“Inclusion is a core value of our Social Services team,” said Councillor Alex Bierk and Councillor Keith Riel in a joint statement. “The Rainbow Registered designation reflects that our Social Services programs are respectful and welcoming for both staff and visitors; it also signals our ongoing commitment to policies and practices that support employee equity, providing 2SLGBTQI+ training opportunities for staff, and enhancing cultural competency in all operations.”

The Peterborough Museum and Archives also announced its Rainbow Registered accreditation earlier in June.

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Ontario Government Invests Up to $6 Million In Grants For Seniors

The Ontario Government is investing up to $6 million through the Seniors Community Grant Program to support 282 community projects that help seniors and older adults stay fit, active, healthy and socially connected.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“The Seniors Community Grants Program is a great example of how our government is working for local communities,” said Raymond Cho, Minister for Seniors and Accessibility. “We are pleased to provide funding for so many programs that bring older people together to avoid being socially isolated, learn new skills, get fit, enjoy group activities and stay connected to their neighbours and friends.”

Up to $25,000 per project is invested in local programs, services and events to provide seniors with opportunities for greater social inclusion, volunteerism and community engagement according to a press release. It continues to state that Program is a unique Ontario government grant designed to reduce social isolation, fight ageism and create positive connections.

“Seniors need to connect with the community and stay fit, healthy, and active,’’ said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By investing in seniors programs, we will be helping more adults get the programs and services they need to live healthy, independent lives.”

Seniors Community Grants projects receiving funding in Peterborough this year include The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough Kawartha Lakes Northumberland and Haliburton. They will receive up to $23,209 to provide rural seniors living with dementia and their caregivers a series of ‘night out’ events to support socialization, reduce stigma and build a more dementia-friendly community.

Age-friendly Peterborough will receive up to $25,000 to transform the way seniors age in place by providing customized health, fitness, social, educational and recreational workshops at several City apartments primarily occupied by older adults according to Jayne Culbert, Age-friendly Coordinator.

“The proportion of older adults 65 and better increased 16 per cent in the Peterborough region from 2016 to 2021 and that number will continue to grow,”she said. “Twenty-five per cent of the residents who live in the greater Peterborough area are seniors and, in some townships, it is over 30 per cent. This is significant as the national and provincial average is 19 per cent. Receiving funding from the Ontario Government helps organizations to support our local older population through innovative projects.”

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Trent Valley Archives Hosting ‘Peterborough Perpetrators,' True Crime Walks In Downtown Core

Due to popular demand, Trent Valley Archives (TVA) is offering its ‘Peterborough Perpetrators’ true crime walk in the downtown core.

Photo courtesy of TVA.

Walking dates are July 12, 19, Aug.16 and 23 at 7 p.m.

They are led by Madison More, a researcher and tour guide. The tour will feature stories such as the 1970s shooting of Grand Hotel owner Murray Green, the mysterious disappearance of an early lumber jack fueled by the discovery of human remains and an escape from the Peterborough jail and the ensuing police chase.

The cost is $20 per person and registration and payment in advance are required. Tours run rain or shine. Tickets are available by going online, calling or emailing TVA at 705-745-4404 or admin@trentvalleyarchives.com.

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Peterborough Petes Draft Adam Novotný In CHL Import Draft

The Peterborough Petes have drafted Czech forward Adam Novotný with the eighth overall selection in the Canadian Hockey League Import Draft on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Stanislav Souček and the PEterborough Petes.

“We’re excited to select Adam with our first round pick,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager and vice president of operations . “Adam is a player that I have seen in person and other members of our hockey staff have watched extensively on video. We believe that the Petes are an excellent option for him to continue his development.”

Novotný is a forward from Nový Bydžov, Czechia. He played 48 games for Mountfield HK U20 last season, scoring 32 goals and adding 27 assists for 59 points.

He was called up to Mountfield HK of the Czech Extraliga, where he played 10 games. Novotný scored in his debut for Mountfield HK in October to become the youngest player to score a goal in the Czech Extraliga at 15. The 6’1”, left-handed shot represented Czechia at the 2023 World U17 Hockey Challenge in P.E.I., scoring one goal and adding two assists in seven games. Novotný, who was born in November 2007, is eligible for the 2026 NHL Draft.

“Adam is a very highly offensively skilled player,” said Patrick O’Connor, Petes assistant coach and director of player personnel. “He’s someone that we’ve followed for quite some time and we feel that his game would be a very good fit in North America. He’s a 2007 birth date, which makes him a great fit for our roster for years to come.”

Peterborough originally held the ninth pick in the draft; however, one team passed, resulting in the Petes moving up one spot. The Petes elected to pass on their second-round pick in the draft as defenceman Martin Matejicek is expected to return and occupy the other import slot on the team.

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Peterborough Airport Welcomes New Manager

The Peterborough Airport has named Dustin Gervais as the new airport manager.

Photocourtesy of the LOomex Group.

Gervais had worked in operations on-site at the airport and worked with The Loomex Group for several years. He assumed the role on Tuesday.

“We are thrilled that he is taking on this challenge,” according to a press release statement. “Dustin brings a wealth of knowledge from his time working with various airports with The Loomex Group and we are excited to welcome him into the Airport Manager role.”

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Trent University Honours Outgoing Board Chair With Special Bench Dedication

During Trent’s Board of Governors’ final regular meeting, the University honoured outgoing Board Chair Debra Cooper Burger with a special bench dedication on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of TRent University.

The bench is located outside the Athletics Centre, honouring her six years of service to the Board, (and three years as chair).

“We are thrilled to acknowledge Debra’s passion for athletics and her unwavering commitment to our community with a bench in her honour outside the Justin Chiu Stadium, serving as a lasting tribute to the indelible mark she has left on our institution,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, outgoing Trent president and vice-chancellor.

Cooper Burger has been a key contributor to several academic, philanthropic and development projects according to a press release.

Initiatives include revitalizing Trent’s Allan Marshall Pool, creating the Jaylynn Bennett Amphitheatre at Traill College, welcoming the inaugural Jarislowsky Chair in Political Trust & Leadership and championing Board of Governors Leadership scholarships.

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Little Lakers Night Returns In Support of Five Counties Children’s Centre At Peterborough Lakers's Final Home Game

Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) and the Peterborough Lakers are teaming up again for the second annual Little Lakers Night fundraiser on July 11.

Peterborough Lakers mascot Teddy is ready to welcome back Five Counties kids and families to the team’s game on July 11. In 2023, the first-ever Little Lakers Night netted $6,784 for the Building Abilities For Life campaign. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

“Our first-ever Little Lakers Night was a great success, and we’re pleased at the generosity of the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers to again partner with us on Little Lakers Night 2.0,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “Not only will the game feature amazing lacrosse action, many members of our Five Counties family will also play starring roles throughout the game.”

All proceeds support Five Counties’ Building Abilities for Life campaign which allows more kids and youth in the region to access the life-changing treatment services they need when needed according to a press release.

FCCC families will participate in the ceremonial pre-game ball drop and enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience with the Lakers. Dozens of Five Counties kids and families will also enjoy free tickets to the game – something they have done all season through the Five Counties Ticket Assist Program.

“Five Counties has played a big role throughout the years in our family, and we’re grateful to have this incredible Centre serving families in our community,” says Len Powers, a FCCC ambassador and Lakers’ board member. “The Lakers are very proud to support the Centre’s work and are very pleased to again host Little Lakers Night on July 11.”

Families can join pre-game festivities starting at 7 p.m. Face painting for kids by donation, freezies for sale, pass the bucket, and the chance to buy commemorative Little Lakers Night T-shirts in support of Five Counties are available.

A silent auction will be held during the game. Items include two tickets to Canada’s Wonderland, a Crayola Prize Pack, and jewelry from local artist Valerie Davidson.

New this year for Little Lakers Night is the debut of a specially designed warm-up jersey created by a local youth. Lakers players will wear these jerseys during their pre-game warm-up session. These jerseys, sponsored by Merrett Home Hardware, will be available in an online auction.

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Lang Pioneer Village Hosting 27th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show July 14

Lang Pioneer Village is showcasing antique and classic cars and vintage motorcycles from across the province during the 27th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 14 from 10 a.m to 3 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Lang Pioneer VIllage.

Guests can tour the village by horse-drawn wagon ride or stroll as they view cars, trucks and motorcycles of every make and model.

Demonstrations include broom making, shingle making at the Shingle Mill and grinding at the Lang Grist Mill are available for viewing. Enjoy performances by the Peterborough Scottish Country Dance Society.

There will be displays by the Peterborough County City Paramedics, Peterborough Speedway and the Canadian Armed Forces.

A pancake breakfast is served while supplies last in the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building (additional fee applies). Refreshments and sweet treats will be available for purchase throughout the day at the Keene Hotel or you can enjoy a traditional European-brewed craft beer in the Haven Brewing Company beer garden. Ben’s Kettle Corn will be popping up fresh kettle corn, fresh Empire Cheese curd and bread available for purchase in the Cheese Factory and the Keene Lions Club food truck will be onsite selling BBQ goods (cash only).

Anyone bringing a vehicle to display, participant registration runs from 8 a.m. to noon. The $10 registration fee includes admission into the village. The first 200 vehicles to enter will receive a complimentary dash plaque as a souvenir of their participation. Over 25 trophies will be awarded, including the coveted People’s Choice and Lang’s Choice.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors (60+), $7 for youths (ages 5-14) and free for children under five. Family admission is also available for $40 and includes two adults and up to four youths (ages 5-14).

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Search Continues For 23-Year-Old Peterborough Man Missing In Little Lake Near Train Bridge

The Peterborough Police Service, the Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) unit, Peterborough Fire Services and the OPP Dive team are continuing the search for a 23-year-old Peterborough man who went into the water in Little Lake near the train bridge in the Lansdowne Street and Edward Street area Monday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The incident happened at about 6:50 p.m. on Monday. Officers learned the man had gone into the water from the shore. Another friend who had jumped from the train bridge attempted to help him but was unsuccessful. The second man was taken to Peterborough Regional Health Centre for treatment.

At about 11:00 a.m., increased police and first responder activity is expected in the area.

The public is thanked for their patience as the search is conducted.

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Campbellford Memorial Hospital Appoints New Emergency Department Chief

Campbellford Memorial Hospital has appointed Dr. David Li as the new Chief of the Emergency Department (ED) after serving as Interim Chief since last fall.

Photo courtesy of Campbellford Memorial Hospital.

“I'm honored to take on the role of Chief of the Emergency Department,” said Dr. Li. “I look forward to continuing to work with our incredible team to provide the highest standard of care to our patients and to support the health and well-being of our community.”

After earning his Doctor of Medicine from the Université de Montréal, Dr. Li completed a Postgraduate Family Medicine Residency Program at McGill University. He also holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University and is fluent in English and French. Before joining Campbellford Memorial Hospital in 2021, Dr. Li worked in Northwestern Ontario, specifically in Dryden and Sioux Lookout. He served in the Emergency Department, the Inpatient Unit and medical clinics.

“The experience really prepared me for the unique challenges of rural medicine and I couldn’t be happier to have found a home here in Campbellford,” said Dr. Li.

“Dr. Li has shown outstanding commitment and expertise in his work with our Emergency Department,” said Dr. Dimitri Louvish, Chief of Staff. “We are thrilled to have him leading the team and are confident that his vision and leadership will drive further advancements in our emergency services.”

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