Monaghan Ward Meeting to Be Held Oct. 23

Councillors Matt Crowley and Don Vassiliadis will host a Monaghan Ward meeting on Oct. 23 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Westdale United Church, 1509 Sherbrooke St.

File Photo.

“Community safety and crime prevention is of utmost importance and we’re looking forward to meeting with Monaghan Ward residents to provide information about Peterborough Police initiatives,” said Councillors Matt Crowley and Don Vassiliadis. “We invite residents from the West End to join the conversation on October 23. We trust it will be an informative evening.”

The meeting will include a presentation by Mark Ressor, Peterborough Police Service Staff Sergeant, regarding policing in Monaghan Ward, the importance of online reporting, crime prevention strategies through environmental design, and Peterborough Police Service’s Community F.I.R.S.T. Unit, which investigates property crimes that were initiated in November 2023.

Following the presentation, there will be time for a question-and-answer session on crime and safety concerns.

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Peterborough Concert Band Performing In Benefit Concert Fundraiser for the New Canadians Centre On Oct. 27

The Peterborough Concert Band (PCB) will perform in a fundraising concert with all proceeds to benefit the New Canadians Centre (NCC) on Oct. 27 at Market Hall from 2:30 to 4 p.m.

Photo courtesy of the NCC.

In 2023-2024, NCC reports that more than 2,000 newcomers received assistance from their organization. It was a 50 per cent increase over the previous year and was the highest number of clients ever. The number included 1216 new clients according to the NCC.

“While Canada remains a global leader in welcoming newcomers, we are sobered by the local and global challenges and conflicts affecting all of us and often the newcomer community even more acutely. The services the NCC provides to clients are making resettlement in Peterborough a little more bearable. The top 10 countries from which newcomers arrive are Syria, Ukraine, India, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Philippines, Iran, Mexico, and Pakistan,” according to a statement from the NCC.

The Peterborough Concert Band is one of the longest-running concert bands in Canada. Their Juno-nominated conductor and composer, Saman Shahi, will lead the band through selections ranging from classical to contemporary.

Following the performance, a reception will be organized by NCC.

Tickets are available through the Market Hall box office, their website or Peterborough Concert Band.

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Kawartha World Issues Centre Appoints New Executive Director

Kawartha World Issues Centre (KWIC) announced on Tuesday that Margaret Zou has been appointed as the new executive director.

Photo courtesy of KWIC.

“We are excited to see the valuable contributions Margaret will undoubtedly bring to our team and are confident her skills and passion for social justice and sustainable development will greatly enhance KWIC’s efforts,” said Ryan Sisson, KWIC Board Chair.

Margaret earned a Bachelor of Science with Honors (BScH) in Life Sciences from Queen's University in Kingston. She holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Environmental Management and Assessment from the University of Liverpool and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, specializing in Environmental Health.

Recently, Margaret served as the SDG Network Coordinator, spearheading community-driven initiatives to raise awareness about the SDGs. Additionally, as the Lead Program Facilitator at Global Health Mentorships (GHMe), Margaret led a team of facilitators, ensuring the effective delivery of mentorship programs globally according to a press release.

Zou will focus on advancing climate action, promoting gender equality and supporting the broader goals of the SDGs, ensuring these important issues remain at the forefront of KWIC’s mission.

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Peterborough County Senior Director Announces Retirement After 36-Year Tenure

Peterborough County’s Bryan Weir, senior director, is calling it a career after 36 years and will retire in late November, announced Monday evening.

LinkedIn Picture.

“I have had the privilege to work with Bryan for over 20 years. Without hesitation, I can say he is the classiest, most humble, kind, and thoughtful person I have ever worked with,” said Sheridan Graham, County CAO. “He has worn many hats over the years, serving as EMS Chief, head of Economic Development, Planning, GIS and most recently, Public Works. In all his roles, Bryan has led his teams with his heart.”

According to Graham, Weir is known for his unwavering staff support and has been entrusted with numerous leadership roles due to his exceptional ability to inspire and guide.

“Staff trust him, respect him, and genuinely like him. His leadership has fostered a supportive and cohesive environment,” she said. “While we are all sad to see him retire, we are grateful for the strong foundation he has built. He has grown, trained and nurtured staff to ensure a smooth transition, demonstrating true leadership.”

Iain Mudd was appointed the new Director of Planning, Development and Public Works, effective on Sept. 6.

“I really can’t believe how fortunate I am to have been, first, hired by the County, and second, able to enjoy such a fulfilling and rewarding career,” said Weir. “I find it hard to describe the feeling of being able to come to work each day and know that my day will be good no matter what happens and it’s entirely due to the extraordinary people and support I have experienced both at the staff level and Council level. I would like to thank the County for its faith and trust when considering my involvement.”

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Peterborough Musicfest Seeks Volunteer to Join Board of Directors

Peterborough Musicfest is seeking a volunteer to join as a Director for its Board of Directors.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The term is for three years and starts in February. The role is roughly 25 hours per year.

The following are the roles of the director:

  • Shape the future of Peterborough Musicfest by contributing to strategic goals and decision-making.

  • Support the festival’s financial planning and help secure key sponsorships and donations.

  • Be an ambassador for the festival within the community, forging connections with stakeholders, artists, and sponsors.

  • Bring your leadership and vision to ensure the festival thrives for years to come!

Applications can be emailed to Tracy Condon, Board Chair at info@ptbomusicfest.ca by 4 p.m. on Oct. 25.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough Seeking Nominations For Paul Harris Fellowship

The Rotary Club of Peterborough is seeking nominations for its prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Recognition in honour of the founder of Rotary International in 1905.

Tom Jenkins (third from left) was a recipient last year for his work with Peterborough Bigs for over 20 years. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

According to Rotary, the Fellowship recognizes local individuals for their leadership and service contributions within our community, the surrounding area and the world at large. It is considered the highest honour Rotarians can give.

Nominations in the following categories can be completed online with the deadline on Friday.

Categories include:

  • Community Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant leadership contribution to the advancement and betterment of the Peterborough Community. 

  • International Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant contribution toward to betterment of the communities in other parts of the world, and/or leadership toward work peace and understanding. 

  • Vocational Service: To recognize an individual who uses their vocational skills consistent wit Rotary ideals toward community and/or international matters.

  • Youth Services: To recognize an individual who makes significant contributions toward to youth (programs, services and/or related matters).

  • Environmental Service: To recognize an individual who supports activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of our environment.

  • Club Service: To recognize a Peterborough Rotary Club member for their outstanding service and dedication. 

The recipients will be celebrated at the Club’s Paul Harris Fellow Recognition Dinner on Nov.18, the location of which will be determined. 

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One Woman Dead From House Fire Been Ruled Accidental From Last Tuesday Afternoon

The Ontario Fire Marshal has ruled that the fire was accidental and claimed the life of a 43-year-old Peterborough woman at a residence last Tuesday afternoon.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 3:40 p.m., an officer on general patrol was flagged down and was informed of the fire at Rubidge Street and Townsend Street.  

The woman was found inside the apartment by Peterborough Fire Services and despite life-saving efforts from Fire and EMS, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

What started the fire has not been determined.

The police investigation is considered completed after the Fire Marshal’s ruling.

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Recalled Beef Jelly Tongue Products Sold in Region

Health Canada has issued a recall of Beef Jelly Tongue products following confirmed cases of listeria linked to these products that have been sold within the region.

THe product sold at the Bridgenorth Deli. Photo courtesy of the Government of Canada.

One case of Listeria infection has been confirmed following the purchase of the product at Bridgenorth Deli, located at 871 Ward St. in Bridgenorth, prior to being informed of the recall.

The premise is cooperating with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) regarding the product recall and assuring the safety of their clients according to press release. The deli is making every effort to contact the customers directly.

A visible display of sliced beef jelly tongue being sold. Photo courtesy of the Government of Canada.

Actions to take:

  • DO NOT EAT recalled products

  • If you are ill and think you have consumed the product, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

  • Check to see if you have recalled product and throw out or return to location of purchase.

Symptoms to monitor for:

  • Vomiting

  • Nausea

  • Persistent fever

  • Muscle aches

  • Severe headache

  • Stiff neck

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Peterborough Police Undergoing Training Exercise In Lakefield; Areas to be Closed During This Time

There is a heavier Peterborough Police presence in Lakefield at the former Ridpath School due to a training exercise underway.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

Emergency services personnel including the Emergency Response Team, will be in the Ermatinger Street and Edward Street area at the closed public school for a training exercise.

Police training signs will be placed as a perimeter, loud noises may be heard and neighbours may see officers with weapons drawn.

Public notification will be made after the exercise.

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Volunteer Peterborough Receives $3,250 Donation From RTOERO to Help Spread Volunteer Opportunities Through New Welcome Brochures

District 36 Peterborough of Retired Teachers of Ontario (RTOERO) has donated $3,250 to Volunteer Peterborough to help connect residents with meaningful volunteer opportunities in a cheque presentation at the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce on Monday morning.

(From left to right) Kathryn Reynolds, Pat Smith, Annette Thomson, Hilda Jolley and Lois Tuffin. District 36 has about 1,300 members, serving the City of Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funds will be used to design, print and launch welcome brochures for new residents in the region.

“As soon as people arrive in Peterborough, they're going to be handed a piece of paper that shows, 'here's how you can get introduced to your community and here's how you can contribute,’” said Lois Tuffin, Volunteer Peterborough founder. “It just saves everybody a lot of time and it's also going to help a lot of non-profits get new blood and new talent so we can do more as a community.”

The welcome brochure initiative will kick off with a launch event for realtors and other professionals who frequently engage with newcomers. The idea is to ensure the brochures effectively reach those most benefit from community involvement.

District 36 funding is part of RTOERO's annual community grants program. Since 1968, the organization has been comprised of teachers, school and board administrators, educational support staff, and college and university faculty in retirement.

“We find throughout the community what needs to happen and sometimes it's through word of mouth,” said Kathryn Reynolds, RTOERO president, District 36 Peterborough.

Districts apply for grants each year to support community projects. In 2024, RTOERO funded 31 projects for a total of $122,252.

Reynolds says that retirees and seniors often have extra time on their hands and volunteering both helps the community and keeps everyone busy.

“Many seniors have the time and inclination to volunteer, but don't know where they can contribute, especially if they're new to the community,” she explained. “Our grant will help Volunteer Peterborough raise awareness. Ultimately, this will strengthen community connections and well-being.”

Each year, a RTOERO member committee assesses each grant submission's merits. Projects touch on everything from environmental sustainability to healthy and accessible communities according to a press release. Since the inception of the community grants program 24 years ago, almost $2.1 million has been donated to more than 600 programs and projects.

“Our non-profits are vital lifelines for so many services in this community. It's hard to even fathom how many meals get delivered, how many people who are lonely get visited and arts programs thrive,” explained Tuffin. “Volunteers are the lifeblood behind all of that and they add a huge capacity to our community.”

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