Peterborough Community Health Centre Appoints Inaugural Executive Director

The Peterborough Community Health Centre (PCHC) has appointed Ashley Safar as its inaugural Executive Director.

Ashley is of mixed ancestry, Haudenosaunee from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory on her mother’s side and first-generation Canadian of Hungarian descent on her father’s side. Photo courtesy of Peterborough Community Health Centre.

According to a press release, Safar will work closely with the PCHC staff, board, and community partners to shape and expand the Centre’s programs and services and ensure they meet the community's diverse needs.

Safar joined the PCHC from the Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, where she served as Executive Director.

“After an extensive, province-wide search, the Board is thrilled to welcome Ashley as our inaugural Executive Director,” said Jonathan Bennett, Co-Chair of the PCHC Board of Directors. “Her vision and leadership will guide the PCHC through this exciting new chapter. With our renovations at Peterborough Square and health human resources recruitment well underway, Ashley’s experience and commitment to inclusivity will ensure that PCHC becomes a hub for equitable, comprehensive care.”

Safar will officially begin her role on Jan. 6.

“I am honoured to be appointed as the inaugural Executive Director of the Peterborough Community Health Centre and excited to begin this important work,” said Safar. “Community Health Centres play a vital role in addressing the unique needs of our most vulnerable members, providing not just care but also connection and support. I look forward to collaborating with the community to ensure that everyone has access to the resources and services they need to thrive. Together, we can build a healthier and more inclusive future for all.”

Since March, the Centre has been led by interim co-executive directors David Jeffery and Christine Brander.

“We are deeply thankful for David and Christine’s tireless commitment and leadership,” said Bennett. “Their experience has been instrumental in launching our new CHC from the ground up, and we have benefited from their dedication at every stage of this journey.”

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Peterborough Man Faces Impaired Driving Charges After Driving E-Bike Into Guardrail

A 25-year-old Peterborough man is facing an impaired charge after an incident with an e-bike on Monday night.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 7:20 p.m., an e-bike was driven into a guardrail in the Murray Street and Stewart Street area. When officers spoke with the driver, they noticed the e-bike was not in pedal mode and showed signs of impairment.

The man was arrested and charged with:

• Operation while impaired – drugs

The accused was issued an automatic 90-day license suspension.

The accused was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 10.

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City of Peterborough Invites All To Participate In the 2024 Heritage Hunt

The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee (PACAC) is launching its 41st annual Heritage Hunt contest to test your knowledge of Geroge Street’s architecture and heritage running until Nov. 29.

The Peterborough Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee has been organizing the Heritage Hunt since 1983. Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

All residents are welcome to participate.

The contest involves identifying 35 architectural details on buildings in a defined area of the city.

This year’s hunt will take place along George Street North, from Parkhill Road West to King Street. All details are visible from the sidewalk and may be found on either side of the street.

Prizes will be awarded for correctly identifying the most architectural elements on the clue sheet. This year, there are three bonus details for extra points.

A fillable, mobile-friendly form, including a map of the Heritage Hunt area where all the architectural details can be found online.

Booklets can also be picked up at City Hall, 500 George St. N., the Peterborough Museum & Archives, 300 Hunter St. E., the Peterborough Public Library, 345 Aylmer St. N., the Art Gallery of Peterborough, 250 Crescent St., and Hutchison House, 270 Brock St.

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Douro-Dummer Fire Services and Enbridge Gas Partners Partner to Reduce Fire and Carbon Monoxide Deaths

Enbridge Gas Inc. and Douro-Dummer Fire Services (DDFS) have partnered to improve home safety and reduce fire—and carbon monoxide-related deaths to zero, announced at Douro-Dummer Fire Station 2 on Monday afternoon.

(From left to right) Chuck Pedersen, Douro-Dummer Fire Chief; Heather Watson, Douro-Dummer mayor; Derrick Huffman, Douro-Dummer Deputy Chief of Fire Services and Jeff Braithwaite, Enbridge Gas operations supervisor. Over the past 16 years, the program has provided more than 101,000 alarms to Ontario fire departments. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to a press release, Douro-Dummer Fire Services received 114 combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms through Safe Community Project Zero. The project is a public education campaign with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) that will provide more than 14,500 alarms to residents in 75 communities across Ontario.

Enbridge Gas invested $450,000 in Safe Community Project Zero this year.

“The best way to reduce potential exposure to carbon monoxide is to properly maintain fuel-burning equipment,” said Jeff Braithwaite, Enbridge Gas operations supervisor. “These alarms are a critical second line of defense against carbon monoxide poisoning, known as ‘the silent killer.’ We’re proud to support our communities and raise awareness and help Ontarians implement these protection strategies.”

When properly installed and maintained, combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms help provide early warning to safely escape from a house fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Carbon monoxide is a toxic, odourless gas that is a by-product of incomplete combustion of many types of common fuels.

“We are excited to receive this kind of support, so we can ensure that people in their homes are protected with these life-saving devices,” said Fire Chief Chuck Pedersen.

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Mandatory Masking Policy Returns to Peterborough Regional Health Centre

Effective immediately, the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) has reimplemented masking in all direct patient care areas.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

According to a press release, PRHC’s goal remains to protect patients from developing hospital-acquired COVID-19 and other respiratory virus infections during the respiratory season. Masking will be mandatory for patients, visitors, staff and volunteers.

“Masks slow the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses,” said Dr. Justin Tilak, PRHC Infection Prevention and Control group physician lead. “During respiratory season, where COVID-19, RSV, flu and more are circulating more frequently, we want to do everything we can to protect our most vulnerable patients.”

This decision comes as many hospitals across Ontario, including Toronto’s University Health Network, implement similar measures.

Medical masks will continue to be available at the Main Entrance, in the Emergency Department and in patient care areas across the hospital.

Based on the patient's location and status, additional personal protective equipment (PPE) and visiting restrictions may apply.

In addition to masking, PRHC is continuing active screening of all patients and visitors entering their facility.

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Peterborough Police Seeking Two Suspects Fleeing Store With Alleged Stolen Goods

The Peterborough Police Service is investigating after a theft on Sunday evening.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 8 p.m., an officer on patrol in the Lansdowne Street and High Street area spotted two men run from a business with a large bag. 

The officer gave chase on foot and the suspects dropped the bag before fleeing in different directions. The officer picked up the bag and returned about $7200 in product to the store. 

The suspects are described as:

Suspect #1:

• White or light-skin

• Approximately 5 ft 9in

• Dark hair

• Black mask

• Black trench coat

• Black pants

• White and grey shoes

Suspect #2:

• White or light-skin

• Approximately5 ft 9in

• Grey baseball hat

• Black coat

• Tan pants

• White shoes

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

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Kinsmen Minor Football League Championship Set After Playoff Games

The Kinsmen Minor Football League (KMFL) has entered the postseason as it started its playoffs at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School (TASS) over the weekend.

Photo courtesy of KMFL.

The action started with the Senior Roughriders eliminating the Argos 38-14. Hayden Phair scored two touchdowns for the Roughriders while Michael Porter, Ryan Donato and Royce Adderley added a single score. Kaden Curtis kicked four converts. Parker Vivian and Ethan Bebbington scored for the Argonauts, with Chase Rimes adding a kicked convert.

The first Junior game of the day had the Roughriders eliminating the TiCats 24-0. Jackson Buck led the scoring for the Roughriders with two touchdowns. Jacob Cahorn added a single score and kicked three converts.

The second Senior playoff saw the RedBlacks eliminate the TiCats 54-7. Brody Munnings led the scoring for the RedBlacks with four touchdowns. Danial Consiglio, Mason Desroche, Brock Hendren and Harley Rock each added single scores. Chase Coghill kicked three converts. Lukas Zoric scored the single touchdown for the TiCats, with Lucas Morissey adding a kicked convert.

The day's final game saw the Junior RedBlacks eliminate the TiCats 40-0. Easton Schenk scored two touchdowns and also kicked a convert. Carter Gray, Cody Laurant and Brycen James each found the endzone as well. Ronnie Hope and AJ Galloway each added two kicked converts.

The KMFL finals are set for this Saturday at TASS. The Roughriders and RedBlacks will battle in both divisions to capture the KMFL Championship.  Junior action kicks off at 10 a.m, followed by the Senior final at noon.

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Peterborough Petes Remain Winless After Weekend Games

After ten games, the Peterborough Petes remain as the only team in the Ontario Hockey League without a win as they took losses from the Brantford Bulldogs and Oshawa Generals over the weekend.

Photo courtesy of Goodall Media and the Peterborough Petes.

The Petes picked up a point but suffered a 4-3 loss in a shootout to the Bulldogs at the Brantford Civic Centre on Saturday.

Liam Ladds scored his first career OHL goal while Ryder McIntyre and Chase Lefebvre each tallied a goal. Nico Addy, Grayden Strohack, Brennan Faulkner, Aiden Young, Caden Taylor and Francis Parish all had assists. Zach Bowen started his eighth game of the season, stopping 35 of 38 shots in the game.

Peterborough took their second weekend loss to the Generals, 7-5 at Tribute Communities Centre on Sunday night.

Aiden Young got his first career OHL hat trick, while Colin Fitzgerald scored and had an assist. Francis Parish had a night, scoring his first OHL goal. Martin Matejicek and Carson Cameron had two assists each, while Grayden Strohack, Nico Addy and Matthew Jenken also had helpers.

The Petes return home to take on the Niagara IceDogs for the Halloween Game at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:05 p.m.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring JA-NEO, Kawartha Montessori, Peterborough Symphony Orchestra and Peterborough 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…

Nominations are open for Junior Achievement’s Business Hall of Fame.

It’s an opportunity to recognize businesses from across Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes who have helped shape our local economy and inspired others through their achievements. Recipients are people who embody a legacy of excellence, displaying unwavering commitment, leadership, and innovation throughout their careers. Visit ja-neo.org to nominate a deserving business in our community. The deadline for nominations is Nov. 29.

Kawartha Montessori School is hosting an open house at their beautiful location at 2247 Burnham Line in Otonabee South Monaghan on Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon.

This is a good opportunity to check out the school if you’re considering Montessori for your child or just curious about their unique learning environment. You will have an opportunity to explore their classrooms and facilities, meet their dedicated teachers, learn about Montessori curriculum and find out how they nurture independent, confident and lifelong learners.

Get an early start on your gift buying and support Peterborough Symphony Orchestra at the same time by bidding on their auction items.

The online auction launched earlier in October and will continue to 4 p.m. on Nov. 2. Starting at 6:30 p.m. that evening, bidding will continue in person at the PSO concert at Showplace and conclude at the post-concert reception in the Cogeco Studio. One of Canada’s foremost piano virtuosos, David Jalbert will be joining the orchestra that evening. Visit thepso.org for more information.

Want to be part of the conversation on the direction of tourism in Peterborough County?

The Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has partnered with Peterborough County to hold a series of Tourism Talks at various locations. These roundtable discussions are meant to engage local businesses that are involved in, rely on, and otherwise impacted by tourism in the County. We want to get a better understanding of the needs of local businesses and what we can do to create a stronger, thriving local tourism sector for many years to come.

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Don't Be Scared of 'Ghost Taco' As They Host Grand Opening Of New Peterborough Location

Peterborough’s newest spot for one of Mexico’s most popular food, ‘Ghost Taco’ held its grand opening at its location at 110 Chandler Cres. on Friday morning.

(From left to right) Samantha Buckley, Ghost Taco co-founder and CEO, Addison Tomas and Chef Matt Basille doing the ‘Ghost Taco Challenge’, testing customers spicy limits with a ghost pepper consomme. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The grand opening opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor Jeff Leal, Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP and the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce.

The event featured merchandise giveaways, a social media photo contest, raffles, drink samples (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and live cooking demos from chef Matt Basille.

Guests could participate in the ‘Ghost Taco Challenge’ to test their spice tolerance with the restaurant’s latest creation, a consommé made from ghost peppers.

The restaurant is known for experimenting with traditional tacos. It offers more familiar styles, such as ‘Carnita’ (pulled pork) and Baja fish but also original concepts such as ‘Crispy Korean Tofu’ and ‘Charred Brussels.’

Bowls, sides and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), including their own brand of beer called ‘Ghost Taco Cerveza,’ are also available.

The grand opening showcased their new limited offer: ‘The Ghost Taco,’ a birria beef and cream cheese taco in a deep-fried tortilla with a ghost pepper consommé.

“We call ourselves 'unauthentic Mexican' largely because it gives us the chance to really experiment with different flavours and different concepts,” explained Samantha Buckley, Ghost Taco co-founder and CEO. “There really is something for every flavour profile and they're all chef-inspired gourmet creations so it's not your typical build-your-own taco place.”

Tomas (left) checks in on Liam O’Connor of the Peterborough and the Kawartha Chamber of Commerce (right) for social media during the ‘Ghost Taco Challenge’. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Ghost Taco was created after some creative pivoting from Buckley during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We own a couple full-service restaurants in Newmarket and a boutique event venue and in the middle of Covid, we were going into the second lockdown, we got shut down at our event venue and we just testing different take-out concepts,” she explained. “We figured, 'you know, what's really missing in the market?' and it's gourmet tacos in a quick-service setting.”

Through testing, social media and a pop-up, the restaurant started a hole in the wall before blowing up which started Ghost Taco.

The small franchise began in Newmarket and opened a second location in Vaughan. Peterborough has become home to its third restaurant and Whitby is planned to be the fourth in the winter next year.

“Jamie, one of our operators here in Peterborough, he really loved the brand and he inquired with us about what we could do to get one of these in Peterborough,” said Buckley. “It was always on our radar. We have ties to Peterborough through our family. You have such a family small-business feel so it really was the perfect fit for us.”

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