City of Peterborough Extends Splash Pad Season to Sept. 22

With warm temperatures in the forecast, the City of Peterborough is extending splash pads operations until Sept. 22.

File Photo.

They were originally scheduled to close for the season last Tuesday.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer our splash pad facilities for an extended season, providing families with more opportunities to cool down and have fun as our summer season winds down,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Gary Baldwin.

The City operates seven splash pads in parks, open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the following locations:

• King Edward Park at 455 George St. S.

• Nicholls Oval at 725 Armour Rd.

• Rogers Cove at 131 Maria St.

• Kinsmen Park at 1 Kinsmen Way

• Barnardo Park on Barnardo Avenue north of Sunset Boulevard

• Turner Park at the corner of Chamberlain and High streets

• Hamilton Park at 575 Bonaccord St.

• Water feature at Quaker Foods City Square, 215 Charlotte St.

Splash pads are closed before the fall as temperatures tend to drop at night. The water systems, including the pipes, must be prepared to avoid freezing and damage through the cold weather between fall and spring.

Beaches at Beavermead Park and Rogers Cove are not supervised at this time. The City’s summer lifeguard program ended on Aug. 25. Residents are reminded to use extra caution around the water if visiting the beaches.

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Trent University Announces 2024-25 Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Comparative Canada-U.S. Studies

Trent University has appointed Dr. Holly M. Karibo from Oklahoma State University as the 2024-25 Fulbright Canada Research Chair in Comparative Canada-U.S. Studies.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Professor Karibo to Trent University” said Dr. Heather Nicol, School for the Study of Canada director. “Her expertise in transnational urban history and research on the Great Lakes Borderlands are perfectly aligned with Trent’s commitment to interdisciplinary and cross-border academic exploration. Prof. Karibo’s work will enrich our understanding of historical dynamics and address contemporary issues that resonate across borders.”

Prof. Karibo’s research project, ‘Ladies, Liquor, and the National Line: Gendering Prohibition in the Great Lakes Borderlands,’ is the first in-depth study of women’s roles in cross-border illegal economies during the American Prohibition Era according to a press release. Her work focuses on regions connecting New York, Michigan, Ontario, Quebec and the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne as well as the often-overlooked roles of women in these smuggling networks. The release continues to state that by reframing Prohibition through the lenses of gender, race, and labour, Prof. Karibo introduces new perspectives to a traditionally male-dominated narrative.

As a Fulbright Scholar at Trent, Prof. Karibo will spend the fall semester conducting groundbreaking research on North American cross-border history concerning gender roles within illicit economies and will engage with the academic community through teaching and collaboration.

“I’m thrilled to begin my appointment at Trent University,” said Karibo. “The opportunity to explore Canadian archives and collaborate with Trent’s academic community will be invaluable in advancing this project. I look forward to unearthing the stories of women who reshaped societal norms and legal landscapes during the Prohibition era.”

Prof. Karibo will also teach the course “Sin Cities: Vice in the North American Borderlands,” examining illicit economies in the U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borderlands during the 19th and 20th centuries. This interdisciplinary course will explore the regulation of vice economies and the gendered and racial experiences of those involved.

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Community Futures Launches Business Advisory Centre; Starter Company Plus Program Applications Open for Business Funding

Community Futures Peterborough (CFP) expanded its services by launching its newly revamped Business Advisory Centre (BAC) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Venture North Building on Monday afternoon.

The BAC, a part of the Small Business Enterprise Centre program, funded by the Province of Ontario through the Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, was previously operated by Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED). Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Rosalea Terry, recently named the 2024 Businesswoman of the Year and business and marketing professor at Fleming College, has been hired as the BAC manager. She is joined by Lindsey Irwin as the business advisor and is a leading marketing consultant and a professor at Fleming and Trent University.

The Business Advisory Centre offers a comprehensive suite of services, combining access to grants, microloans, top-tier advisors and specialized programs to support business growth, scaling and even selling according to a press release.

These resources and expertise make it a one-stop hub for entrepreneurs and small business owners to succeed according to Devon Girard, CFP executive director.

“With the launch of the Business Advisory Centre, we're taking a significant step forward in supporting the entrepreneurial spirit that drives both our city and county,” she said. “By bringing together top-tier talent like Rosalea Terry and Lindsey Irwin, we're ensuring our local businesses have access to the expertise, mentorship, and resources they need to thrive. This Centre is not just a resource for entrepreneurs; it's a catalyst for economic growth across our entire region.”

CFP was assuming operations of the Business Advisory Centre that was announced in June. This enables them to provide small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs access to funding and advisory services in one location.

Services of the BAC include mentorship, expert consultations, advisory, grant programs, confidence coaching, workshops, masterminds and networking events, catering to businesses at all stages of growth, from early-stage startups to scaling enterprises.

In addition to the BAC’s launch, CFP has opened its applications to its Starter Company Plus program. It offers businesses the opportunity to receive up to $5,000 in funding and ongoing support and mentorship to start or grow their ventures. Applications for the program are open until Oct. 4 at 4 p.m.

“We are incredibly confident in the team we've assembled to lead the Business Advisory Centre,: said Wayne Harding, CFP board chair. “We're empowering our community with the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in today's dynamic market. Community Futures Peterborough is the go-to for businesses and entrepreneurs and will undoubtedly bolster our local economy and create lasting opportunities for growth throughout the city and county.”

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Back-to-School Traffic Enforcement Numbers Released By Peterborough Police Service

The Peterborough Police Service Traffic Unit conducted school zone and community zone traffic enforcement and education during the first week of back-to-school. 

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Officers attended several locations throughout the week in all three of their policing areas. These included Bensfort Drive and Collison Avenue; Hilliard Street and Marina Boulevard; Goodfellow Road and St. Mary’s Street in Peterborough; Sherbrooke Street and Longview Drive in the Township of Cavan-Monaghan and several locations in Lakefield.

Officers issued:  

• 35 Provincial Offence Notices

• Nine Warnings

• Two Part Three Summons - These require a court appearance and could result in increased penalties

Peterborough Police want to remind residents that in Peterborough, school zones have been dedicated as community safety zones, with lower speeds and increased penalties. 

Traffic complaints can be made to their Traffic Unit at 705-876-1122 x289 or through the online reporting portal.

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Peterborough City U15G Complete the Three-Peat As Durham Region Soccer League League Champions

The Peterborough City U15 Girls of the Durham Region Soccer League (DRSL) have completed the three-peat, winning their third consecutive league title with an 8-0 rout on Thursday night.

Top Row (left to right: Assistant Coach: Nick Powers, Madelyn Gleeson, Bridgette Powers, Payton Rogers, Elaina Wilson, Head Coach: David Bartleman, Sydney Smith, Gabby Savoy, Brynne Bartleman, Danica Bennett, Assistant Coach: Nicole Plunkett

Bottom Row (Left to right): Charlotte Donaldson, Grace Plunkett, Nia Spence, Nora Staples, Ellie Lewington, Lily Elizebeth Papageorge, Kathryn Murphy, Allie Hamilton, Kylee Clarke.

Photo courtesy of David Bartleman.

Peterborough City needed at least a tie to clinch first place. 

Grace Plunkett had a whopping five goals to lead the team. Danica Bennett, Madelyn Gleeson and Elaina Wilson also found the scoresheet by netting a goal apiece. Goalkeeper Bridgette Powers had a clean sheet for the shutout.

After winning two straight Durham Region Soccer League titles, the Peterborough City U15 Girls entered this season playing for a year in the U16 girls division for an increased challenge higher competition level.

The team finished the season undefeated with 13 wins and three draws. The girls lead an offensive juggernaut with a league-leading 87 goals while conceding 10 goals. Plunkett led the league with 27 goals and Ellie Lewington tied as league leader with six shutouts alongside Sophie Canakis-McLauchlan of Whitby FC.

Next year, the team plans to enter the Ontario Soccer iModel League according to a press release.

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Kinsmen Minor Football League Ready To Kick Off Largest Season in League History

The Kinsmen Minor Football League kicked off its 44th season on Saturday, as expected, the largest season since its inception in 1980.

KMFL President Bryan Junkin addressing a record number of players during the Senior Evaluation Night. Photo courtesy of KMFL.

“We have 260 athletes ready to hit the Gridiron this season," said Bryan Junkin, KMFL president. “To be able to set a new league record only two seasons after recovering from the impact Covid took on us, it's just incredible. It's a testament to the passion and commitment of our volunteers.”

The previous record of 220 athletes was set in the late 1990s or early 2000s according to a press release.

The Senior Division (11-13) has 160 athletes across four teams playing 12-man football. The Junior Division (8-10) has 100 athletes with four teams playing nine-man football. 

“We had such a rush of registrations, that the Board had to decide to cap the team rosters in July.” said Junkin. “This type of growth caught us off guard, but with help from the Kinsmen Club and a fantastic response from the community to our 2024 Sponsorship drive, we were able to purchase the additional player and field equipment needed to take on these additional numbers.”

The League will partner with Electric City Special Needs Hockey to provide food and refreshments on game days. They will also hold their annual Friday Night Lights games on Sept. 27th and Oct. 18th. 

“We have some halftime events planned for those nights and will also be accepting food donations for the local foodbank.” said Junkin.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Statement House, Lakefield Animal Welfare Society, Dream Light Gala and PTBO Chamber

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Statement House is introducing a collection of upcycled fashion.

The collection is in collaboration with Cahills, creating fashion accessories and clothing through the repurposing of denim, vintage fabric, and much more. You can buy them pre-made, choose textiles from their collection, or bring your own garments. Statement House offers reasonably priced, carefully curated vintage, retro and modern clothing and accessories. Drop by 378 Water St. in downtown Peterborough to find your next fashionable outfit or accessory.

Lakefield Animal Welfare Society's Doggie Dash is coming up on Sept. 15 at Isabel Morris Park in Lakefield.

It’s a BYOD (Bring your Own Dog) fundraising event where people can choose between 1.5 and 2.5 km to walk a dog in the company of other dog lovers. The event will feature live music, food vendors, local artisans, and small businesses selling handmade goods. Funds go to supporting furry friends in need. LAWS works every day to accept adoptable cats and dogs as shelter transfers, owner surrenders, and rescued animals with the goal of connecting each animal to a loving home. Visit lakefieldanimalwelfare.org to register.

Join the Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough for a night where music meets magic at their Dream Light Gala at the Venue on Oct. 18.

Enjoy some delicious beverages during the cocktail hour at 5:30pm with dinner starting at 6:30 pm. There will be live music from James Higgins and the night will close with a silent auction. Funds raised assist the work of the Association with programing and support for people with Down Syndrome and their families. Visit downsyndromepeterborough.ca to order your tickets.

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has a big announcement coming up.

Join them at Bennett’s Furniture and Mattresses on Wednesday Sept. 18 from 7 to 9 p.m. The evening event will feature a female-led panel discussion featuring local businesses. There will be delicious appetizers and a cash bar. Register for this free announcement event at pkchamber.ca.

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Peterborough Humane Society Officially Opens Off-Leash Dog Park

Canines can rejoice as the Peterborough Humane Society (PHS) celebrated the official opening of the Peterborough Animal Care Centre (PACC) Off-Leash Dog Park on Friday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Humane Society.

“We are thrilled to bring this exciting amenity to our community. The opportunity to provide pets and people with an open space where they can enjoy some healthy exercise and promote overall enrichment is a great way to keep pets and people together,” said Shawn Morey, PHS executive director.” It is a wonderful addition to our Peterborough Animal Care Centre, and thanks to Ted and the staff at Pet Supply Warehouse, this space is now open for enjoyment.”

Pet Supply Warehouse, a locally owned and operated pet retailer, sponsored the park and the Kitty Cam Room at PACC.

“Pet Supply Warehouse is proud to be a supporter of Peterborough Humane Society and the amazing work they do,” said Ted LaBranche, Pet Supply Warehouse owner. “We are so honoured to be a part of this exciting venture. This is a great space for our canine friends to get exercise, enrichment and socialization.”

The Off-Leash Dog Park is open during daylight hours for public use. Park regulations are posted at the park and online. There is no fee to use the park, but donations to the shelter are always appreciated.

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Peterborough Petes Sign Forward to OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement

The Peterborough Petes has signed forward Francis Parish to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement ahead of Friday’s preseason game in Guelph.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

“Francis put in a lot of work in the offseason and really showed us that he deserves this opportunity,” said Michael Oke, general manager and vice president of operations. “We’re excited to be able to add him to our group.”

The Richmond Hill native was originally selected by the Petes in the 11th round, 213th overall, in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. Last season, the 2007-born forward played 26 games for the Barrie Jr. Colts U18’s, scoring 15 goals and adding 24 assists for 39 points. He also played in eight playoff games for the Colts, picking up nine points. Parish’s play earned him a call-up to the Leamington Flyers of the Ontario Junior Hockey League where he played in one game according to a press release.

“I’m excited to be a Pete,” said Parish. “The journey continues and I’m looking forward to the opportunity.”

Forward Ben Sherwin has been reassigned ahead of Friday’s game.

The Petes are back in action on Sunday when they host the Sudbury Wolves at the Asphodel-Norwood Community Centre in Norwood. Puck drop is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. Ticket details can be found online. The game will also be streamed live on the Petes official YouTube page.

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