Peterborough Petes Call Up Forward Ahead of Friday's Game Against the Kingston Frontenacs

The Peterborough Petes has called up forward Raiden Doxtator ahead of Friday night’s game in Kingston, announced on Friday morning.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Petes.

The Petes drafted the 2008 London-born forward in the seventh round, 125th overall, in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. He was selected from the London Jr. Knights program. He scored 10 goals and added 27 assists for 37 points in 30 games for their U16 team in 2023-24. This season, Doxtator played 56 games for BioSteel Sports Academy 16U, scoring 36 goals and adding 45 assists for 81 points. He also played in five games for BioSteel Sports Academy’s 18U team, scoring four goals and adding four assists for eight points. 

“Raiden was noticeable in training camp as a 16-year-old and has had a productive season at BioSteel Sports Academy,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager and vice president of operations. “We’ve had a chance to watch his progress over the year and he has made a positive impression.”

Doxtator is expected to make his OHL debut, wearing number 25 for Friday’s game against the Frontenacs.

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53rd Easter Seals Telethon Looking to Raise $100,000 With Live Event For March 23

The 53rd Easter Seals Telethon fundraiser is aiming to raise $100,000 for children with physical disabilities with their live event broadcasting on March 23 on YourTV and Global Peterborough from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., announced at Lansdowne Place on Thursday morning.

Stu Harrison, Easter Seals Telethon honest (left), talks to Mitchell McMcoll (middle) and Yvonne McColl about how Easter Seals has benefitted their family. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Mayor Jeff Leal was in attendance and proclaimed March to be Easter Seals Month in Peterborough.

Stu Harrison is returning as Telethon host and Graham Hart, former CHEX TV on-air personality, is doing his 51st Telethon.

Easter Seals is its 103rd year with the 53rd as a fundraiser. Proceeds provide support for children and youth with physical disabilities. This includes mobility and accessibility equipment, communication devices and attending summer camps.

“I honestly call the Telethon a legacy event,” said Jenn Bheemsingh, Easter Seals community engagement officer. “Easter Seals is such a signature event, especially in this community. In Ontario, we're doing the Telethons all across the regions but Peterborough, you guys are expecting the Telethon to come, it's a great community-based event. 

The televised event celebrates success stories, showcases Easter Seals kids and their families and recognizes donors and sponsors.

“We're going to be showcasing a lot of the Peterborough families that are in the area,” said Bheemsingh. “We've got over 75 families that we serve just to Easter Seals alone so we're hoping to have quite a few of the families come in, share their stories and see their journeys.”

Supporters can donate during the Telethon or at anytime online.

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Riverview Park & Zoo Otter Has Leg Amputated After Sustaining Severe Injury

Unfortunate news for Meadow the Otter at Riverview Park & Zoo and she had to have her leg amputated due to sustaining a leg injury after an altercation.

Photo courtesy of the Riverview Park & zoo.

Meadow suffered a severe leg injury after having an incident with other otters according to the Zoo. After medical consultation with vets and an orthopedic surgeon, Meadow had her leg amputated as a result of her injuries.

“Although this is an unfortunate situation, there is always a risk when introducing animals together, even when every precaution was taken by the Animal Care team,” said Cathy Mitchell, Riverview manager and curator.

Mitchell states that Meadow has been healing and recovering very well while showing resilience. The animal health team has cleared her to be back on exhibit and have outdoor access.

Meadow was moved on March 11th into her exhibit with ample outdoor space in the west outdoor primate exhibit. She was welcomed into the Zoo at the end of last year to join a group of three other mate otters.

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Voice of Business: Everything Tariffs: Local Panel Insights, Federal Support and Economic Impact

This week on Voice of Business, we are discussing the impact of tariffs and what has happened since their implementation.

Tariffs came into effect on March 4, and we recently hosted a well-rounded panel with industry experts to examine their effects. This week, we will explore how the Canadian government has responded and what it means for businesses.

March has been a volatile and concerning month for our members and local businesses. As of March 4, at 12:01 a.m., U.S. tariffs took effect due to Canada’s perceived inaction on Fentanyl-related concerns. In response, the Canadian government responded with counter-tariffs on $30 billion worth of goods. If U.S. tariffs remain in place, total Canadian countermeasures could increase to $125 billion, totalling $155 million in tariffs on U.S. imports. The affected products such as electric vehicles, fruits, vegetables, beef, pork, dairy, electronics, steel, aluminum, trucks, and buses. Currently, the list of affected goods includes orange juice, peanut butter, wine, spirits, beer, coffee, appliances, apparel, footwear, motorcycles, cosmetics, and certain pulp and paper products. On March 6th, the U.S. announced that CUSMA-related products, including auto parts, would be exempt from tariffs until April 2nd. Canadian officials later confirmed that approximately 40per cent of Canadian exports to the U.S. would be exempt and that Canada would not proceed with the second wave of $125 billion in tariffs until April 2nd. Despite Canada appointing a Fentanyl Czar and increasing border security measures, these efforts have not been sufficient to prevent U.S. tariffs. With $3.6 billion in goods and services crossing the border daily, these tariffs will have a substantial impact on jobs, industries, and local businesses. The effects are already being felt. Businesses exporting products to the U.S. are experiencing financial strain, with some anticipating layoffs and price increases to offset rising costs. Supply chain disruptions are also expected, as importers of affected goods will face higher prices. Consumers will bear the burden through increased costs at checkout. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) has been actively advocating for the removal of U.S. tariffs, estimating that their economic impact on every Canadian will be approximately $1,900. Canada remains the number one trading partner for 34 U.S. states, highlighting the deeply integrated nature of the supply chain. In Ontario alone, nearly one million Canadian jobs depend on Ontario’s U.S. exports, and 19,927 companies export to the U.S. These tariffs will create logistical and financial challenges, particularly for industries such as homebuilding, which rely on American products and will be forced to pass price increases onto consumers. Given the deeply integrated trade relationship between Canada and the U.S., supporting millions of jobs in both countries, it is clear that continued tariffs would cause significant economic damage.

Despite the challenges, there is some hope. Last week, Community Futures and the local Chamber of Commerce hosted a Tariff Panel discussion featuring industry experts.

Some Key takeaways from the panel included:

• the importance of businesses connecting with provincial and regional Chambers of Commerce to explore new markets.

• Panelists emphasized the urgent need for interprovincial trade reform to increase cross-border trade within Canada. Businesses were encouraged to participate in global trade missions with the government to diversify export markets.

• Expanding port infrastructure was identified as a crucial step to improving trade efficiency.

• Additionally, the panel highlighted that the U.S. may underestimate Canada’s leverage, particularly in sectors like agriculture, where Canada produces 90 per cent of the world’s potash, a critical resource for American farmers.

Although the trade war is beyond our control, recognizing these opportunities provides a sense of optimism. Canada is more unified than ever in its approach to economic resilience. Municipal governments are taking action, with both Peterborough County and the City of Peterborough committing to a “Made in Canada” procurement strategy to ensure local spending benefits local businesses. The Canadian government has also introduced several measures to support businesses affected by tariffs:

• The Trade Impact Program, launched through Export Development Canada, will deploy $5 billion over two years to help exporters reach new markets, navigate economic challenges, and address issues such as currency fluctuations and cash flow shortages.

• Additionally, $500 million in favourable loans will be available through the Business Development Bank of Canada to support impacted businesses and their supply chains, along with advisory services on financial management and market diversification.

• Providing $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada to assist the agriculture and food industry with cash flow challenges, helping businesses adapt to changing market conditions. If your business is struggling with these challenges, please visit our Tariff Resources page for contact points and assistance. The situation is evolving rapidly, and while the future

remains uncertain, it is crucial that the Canadian government continues to develop strategies to support businesses through this difficult time.

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

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Future Post-Secondary Students Invited to Trent University's March Break Open House Friday

Future students will have the chance to sit down with Trent’s academic leaders at Spring Open House in Peterborough to discuss the University’s programs, career pathways, generous entrance scholarships and unique learning environment this Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Trent University.

New this year is a Meet the Deans drop-in session offering to allow future students and guests to ask questions, hear directly from the leaders shaping Trent’s academic experience and learn about studying at Trent. Dr. Mark Skinner, dean of Humanities & Social Sciences; Dr. Sarah West, dean of Sciences; Dr. Fergal O’Hagan, dean of Education and Dr. Hugo Lehmann, dean of Nursing will be in attendance.

Students considering transferring to Trent can also participate in a new dedicated session for transfer students, designed to help those considering a new postsecondary path explore their options and learn how Trent can help with transfer credits. A dedicated session for Grade 10 and 11 students will introduce younger visitors to Trent’s programs, student life, and the path to university.

“Open House is about more than just seeing the spaces where you’ll study—it’s about meeting the people who will be part of your university experience,” said Marilyn Burns, vice president of Communications & Enrolment at Trent University. “The chance to have real conversations with deans, faculty, students, and staff is what makes Trent’s Open House such a valuable experience for our guests, providing the best insight into what makes Trent unique—our academic options and career pathways, student supports, and generous scholarships. There’s no better way to see if Trent is the right fit.”

Trent’s Spring Open House features student-led campus tours, offering a look inside lecture halls, Bata Library, the Student Centre, and residence spaces.

Professors also lead information sessions on programs, research opportunities and career pathways, while enrolment advisors are on hand to discuss paid co-op and flexible degree options—including Trent’s Exploration Year, which allows students to customize their first year before choosing a major.

Students can also explore Trent’s entrance scholarships, including full tuition for those with a 95 perc ent average or higher, apply for guaranteed residence and accept an offer or apply on the spot. 

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Peterborough Petes Allow Four-Goal Flurry From Brampton Steelheads In Second Period For 6-3 Loss

The Peterborough Petes could not catch up to the Brampton Steelheads after allowing four goals in the second period to fall 6-3 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Wednesday night.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

The scoring started from a Peterborough native but not from the Petes. Steelheads Porter Martone got the puck out in front on a wide-open net and buried it home for a 1-0 lead as the period’s only score.

Brampton scored the following two goals just 6:06 into the period for a 3-0 lead. Peterborough finally got on the board as they had an odd-man rush. Francis Parish took the shot but was saved by the pad. Gavin Bryant pounced on the rebound and scored the Petes’s first goal. Unfortunately for Peterborough, a pair of Aidan Lane goals hit the board and the Petes found themselves in a 5-1 deficit after two periods.

Parish got his second point of the night as he was the only Pete on the rush and snapped it at the high slot to make it 5-3. Brampton scored just six minutes later to restore their four-goal lead. Quinton Pagé squeezed out one more goal for Peterborough in the final two minutes in regulation but it was too little, too late and the Petes fell 6-3 to the Steelheads.

The Petes travel to Kingston to take on the Frontenacs this Friday at 7 p.m. at Slush Puppie Place.

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Peterborough Woman Arrested From Outstanding Warrants After Being Stopped While Riding Bicycle

A 42-year-old Peterborough woman wanted on warrants has been arrested after a traffic stop early Thursday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 1:50 a.m., a general patrol officer in the Chamberlain Street and Brewer Street area spotted a woman on a bicycle with no lights. 

The officer conducted a traffic stop and in speaking with the cyclist, they learned that she was wanted on five warrants for the following:

• failing to comply with an appearance notice

• failure to comply with probation order x6

• use of credit card x2

• possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000

As a result, a 42-year-old Peterborough woman was arrested on the strength of the warrants.

She is being held in custody and will appear in court on Thursday.

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United Way Brings Fifth-Annual Homelessness Benefit Concert With 'Peterborough Performs' For United Way at Showplace On March 26

Showplace Performance Centre is hosting United Way’s fifth-annual ‘Peterborough Performs, Musicians United to End Homelessness’ fundraiser for homelessness initiatives announced Wednesday morning.

Singer-Songwriter Georgia Rose is one of 14 acts joining ‘Peterborough Performs."‘ In 2024, United Way partner agencies served 742 people in finding housing, and another 1,754 people were supported to prevent losing their housing and becoming homeless. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The one-night event takes place on March 26 at Showplace (290 George St. N.) at 7 p.m. with tickets for $50 or two for $80.

In September, United Way had a goal of raising $1.5 million. They are $27,000 away from hitting their mark as this event could put them over the top, according to Jim Russell, United Way CEO.

“We are at 98 per cent of our goal of $1.5 million,” he explained. “We are so proud of how our community has shown up to support our most vulnerable neighbours. Peterborough Performs marks the end of our annual campaign, and we believe that the community’s support will make it possible to achieve our goal for the first time in many years.”

The event has generated over $100,000 since its establishment in 2021. This funding goes towards United Way’s 20 partner agencies, specifically those who provide services to people experiencing homelessness or in immediate need of support in their housing situations.

Event coordinator Paul Rellinger is back for the event. He has been a longtime member of the United Way’s Campaign Cabinet and looks forward to help the show running smoothly as United Way is at the homestretch of its $1.5 million goal.

“I have never not been in awe of the power of people united behind a common cause, project or initiative,” he said. “Therein lies my delight to again be entrusted with organizing Peterborough Performs. Besides speaking to my love of locally presented music and those who bring it to us, the fundraiser inspires and energizes me, reminding me of what I love most about this place I call home. It’s the people I’m fortunate to work with on projects such as this, specifically their unselfish willingness to roll up their sleeves and get busy when an identified need deserves our full attention.”

“Great music and a great cause,” said David Goyette, Peterborough Performs founder. “With Peterborough Performs, we are building a terrific tradition that continues to prove its value to the community. Thanks to all who make it happen.”

The following are the acts performing at this year’s concert:

• The Spades

• The Weber Brothers Band

• Rick ‘n’ Gallies Peterborough All-Star Band

• Little Fire Collective

• Kate Suhr & Melissa Payne with Nicholas Campbell, Kate Brioux, Paul Craough & Brandon Monroe

• Michael Bell & Lizeh Basciano (Michael Bublé & Adele Tribute)

• The Hippie Chicks

• Dan Hick

• Bread & Soul

• Phil Stephenson & Glen Caradus

• Jacques Graveline

• Alyssa Morrisey & Kyler Tapscott

• Georgia Rose

• Danny & Joanna Bronson

An online virtual auction with roughly 40 items runs until March 6 at 10 p.m. Local businesses, sponsors and organizations have donated all the lots for the auction. Winners who are in attendance can pick up their prizes at Showplace on March 26. Otherwise, they can pick up their prize from the United Way Peterborough & District office at 277 Stewart St.

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Registration For Jr. A Lakers Summer Camp Opens This Friday

Kids can pick up their lacrosse sticks and toss the ball around as registration for the Peterborough Jr. A Lakers Summer Camp opens this Friday at 8 a.m.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Jr. A Lakers

The camp is held at the Peterborough Memorial Centre in a four-week multi-sport camp for athletes ages six-12 and runs through July.

“I’m grateful for the foundation Turner has built and excited to continue delivering an unforgettable experience for our campers,” said Curtis Conley, camp director.

Conley was newly appointed to the role, taking over for Turner Evans. The former is a Trent University Bachelor of Education student with both playing and coaching experience. He is an assistant coach with the Jr. A Lakers, played for the Cobourg Kodiaks in the MSL last summer and has played professionally in the National Lacrosse League with the Albany Firewolves and New York Riptide.

“I’m passionate about teaching and coaching, and I can’t wait to help young athletes grow their skills in a supportive, high-energy environment,” said Conley.

The camp offers a mix of sports and activities, focusing on daily lacrosse instruction led by Jr. A Lakers players and special guest coaches. It is suitable for children of all skill levels.

Camp Details:

• Dates & Fees:

• Week 1: June 30, July 2-4 (four-day week) – $180

• Week 2: July 7-11 – $200

• Week 3: July 14-18 – $200

• Week 4: July 21-25 – $200

• Location: Peterborough Memorial Centre

• Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• Ages: 6-12

• Highlights: Multi-sport activities with daily lacrosse training, led by Jr A Lakers players and special guests

Online registration is available or through a link at PtboJrLakers.ca. Spots are limited and expected to fill quickly, so don’t miss out! Whether you’re a returning camper or a new face, the Jr A Lakers Summer Camp is ready to welcome you for a summer of growth, leadership, and fun.

Conley says he’s looking forward to seeing everyone at camp and continuing the tradition of excellence that makes this program so special.

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Parts of Brealey Drive Closed End of Month For Major Infrastructure Project Construction

Brealey Drive will be closed from Sherbrooke Street to Mapleridge Drive, with maintained access for local traffic, at the end of March 2025 as Phase 2 of the Brealey Drive Major Infrastructure Project begins, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Crews are scheduled to begin site preparation work this week. The road will remain open, with signals at Cherryhill Road and Brealey Drive being energized before the road closure is implemented.  

Construction is expected to be completed by fall 2025. In 2024, Behan Construction Limited was awarded the contract for the project.

The Brealey Drive Major Infrastructure Project started in the spring of 2024, with a pause in construction over the winter.

The reconstruction project includes replacing storm sewers, sanitary sewers, and water mains, installing new concrete curbs and gutters and sidewalks, installing a new off-street multi-use trail and on-street cycling lanes, replacing the roadway granular base and the asphalt roadway, restoring boulevards, and replacing street lighting, signage, landscaping and pavement markings.

Existing trees and vegetation throughout the Brealey Drive corridor will be impacted during the work as required to support construction activities. Landscaping remediation work will take place when construction is complete.

Residents should expect traffic delays while construction is underway.

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