PVNC Catholic Literacy Team Given 2025 Dyslexia Canada Educational Excellence Award

The Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board has been awarded Dyslexia Canada’s 2025 Educational Excellence Award for its outstanding commitment to evidence-based literacy practices, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of PVNC.

The award recognizes the leadership of Superintendent of Learning Sheila Piggott, Literacy Consultant Lindsay Bowen, and Reading Coaches Maggie Sullivan, Sarah Hurley, Kate Keating, Kathleen Laroque and Dan Chronowic. It also honours the broader team of coaches and expert advisors from 2022 to 2025.

“We’re honoured by this recognition from Dyslexia Canada. It reflects the thoughtful, collaborative work of so many—reading coaches, educators, principals, and central staff—who have embraced change with a shared commitment to doing what’s best for students,” said Sheila Piggott, superintendent of learning. “This work continues to evolve, but we’re encouraged by the progress we’ve made together in building a stronger foundation for early literacy across PVNC Catholic.”

The team’s work is rooted in the recommendations of Ontario’s 2022 Right to Read report, according to a press release.

PVNC Catholic established a central literacy team and funded seven reading coach positions, supporting over 170 classrooms across 30 elementary schools.

Throughout the 2023–2024 school year, the Board expanded training for all K–6 educators, Special Education staff and principals, embedding structured literacy practices system-wide.

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Repeat Offender Known to Frequent Peterborough Wanted By Police

Ontario’s Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (R.O.P.E.) Squad is seeking the public's help in locating federal offender Lucan Watters, who is wanted on a Canada-wide warrant as a result of breaching their Statutory Release.

Photo courtesy of OPP.

He is described as:

• Caucasian Male

• 47 years of age

• 5"6' (168cm)

• 130 lbs

Watters has several tattoos throughout his body including:

• Left side of neck - wave

• Back of neck - 'FTW'

• Upper left arm - 'hard luck' with a green clover

• Upper right arm - barbed wire

• Chest - 'J.D.J.D'

• Lower back - ‘Watters’

Watters is serving a four-year, 11-month sentence for the following:

• Possession of schedule I/II substance for purposes of trafficking

• Break and enter with intent

• Unauthorized possession of a firearm, prohibited or restricted weapon in a motor vehicle

• Failure to comply with order - at large

• Failure to attend court

The offender is known to frequent Peterborough, Trent Hills, Campbellford, Norwood and Toronto.

Anyone with contact information or knowledge of this offender's whereabouts is asked to contact the Provincial R.O.P.E. Squad at 416-808-5900 or toll-free at 1-866-870-7673 (ROPE), Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or call 9-1-1.

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Trent University Launches Create Centre for Entrepreneurship

Trent University has opened the doors to the Create Centre for Entrepreneurship, a space that provides an inclusive entry point for students to explore problem-solving, leadership and collaboration, on Monday.

The fourth floor is known as the Moore Innovation Hub made possible through Dr. David Moore '93 (hon) and Joan Moore. The University also plans to expand the Create Centre for Entrepreneurship programming to Trent University Durham GTA. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

“The Create Centre for Entrepreneurship reflects the spirit of Trent – collaborative, student-centred and deeply engaged with the world around us,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “Our goal is to challenge the conventional ideas around what entrepreneurship means, allowing every student to think differently and take risks, and make a meaningful impact.”

The new Centre shares space with the Leadership and Democracy Lab. Dr. Cristine de Clercy, Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership, leads it.

The new building serves as a connector between students and faculty, existing programming and services at Trent, as well as the business sectors in both Peterborough and Durham according to a press release. In addition to skill-building and mentorship, students will gain access to networking opportunities, hands-on experiences and curated programming.

“Create embodies the powerful engine of human progress at this seminal moment in the human journey,” said Gavin Marshall, Trent’s Momentous Campaign leader. “In a time when digital interaction often replaces human connection, this model emphasizes collaboration, shared problem-solving and real human leadership. Whether our students go on to launch a company, work in the non-profit sector or lead public policy reform, or however they do the essential work of tomorrow building, Create (Centre) will help them understand that big change never happens in isolation.”

The Centre’s physical space is in Bata Library on the fourth floor.

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Peterborough Lakers Fall In First-Place Battle Against Six Nations Chiefs

In a battle for first place in the Major Series Lacrosse Standings, the Peterborough Lakers could not claim the top spot after losing to the Six Nations Chiefs, 9-6, at the Iroquois Lacrosse Arena on Tuesday night.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Lakers.

Both teams alternated the games first five goals with the Lakers getting the elad after the opening period, 3-2. Joe Resetarits scored twice and Holden Cattoni got on the board for Peterborough.

The Chiefs took over the second period, scoring four times to Peterborough’s one thanks to a pair of Shayne Jackson tallies for Six Nations. Resetarits was the lone goal-scorer for the Lakers to complete the hat trick but the score was 6-4 after two periods.

The third period saw the Chiefs extend their lead with two goals but Peterborough responded with two of their own to keep it close. However, a late power play goal from the Chiefs dashed any hopes of Peterborough making a comeback and fell 9-6.

The Chiefs’ win improves their record to 9-1 and keeps them in first place, while the Lakers stay in third place as 7-3.

The Lakers return to the Memorial Centre this Thursday to host the Cobourg Kodiaks during a Canada Day celebration. Fans are asked to wear their best red and white outfits to match the Lakers, who will be wearing special Canada jerseys, to be auctioned off following the game in support of the PRHC Foundation’s $60 million Campaign.

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Emergency Shelter Repair Project Complete For YES Shelter

The YES Shelter for Youth and Families has completed its major repairs to its Brock Street emergency shelter, revealed to the public on Tuesday morning.

Members of YES Shelter and their donors celebrating the repair completion that totalled $266,394 in repairs. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The project was funded by community support, including significant funding from the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough.

The building features reinforced structural elements, institutional-grade plumbing and fixtures, exterior aesthetic renewal and the installation of new generator.

This critical work ensures the long-term safety, function and dignity of the shelter, which serves youth and families experiencing homelessness across Peterborough City and County, according to Aimeé Le Lagadec, YES executive director.

“This project was a major undertaking,” she said. “Back in 2021, we asked the community to help us raise $200,000 to cover the cost of necessary repairs to our Emergency Shelter building. Thanks to the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough and many generous donors, we have raised just over $265,000 allowing us to cover the most necessary work and some new repair needs as they came up. As a community, we safeguarded this essential space for the future offering shelter and support with dignity.”

“This wasn’t just about fixing a building,” said Jennifer DeBues, Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough executive director. “It was about protecting the only emergency shelter for youth and families in Peterborough and ensuring it remains a safe, supportive place for those who need it most.”

@ptbo_canada The YES Shelter for Youth and Families has completed its major repairs to its Brock Street emergency shelter. #ptbocanada #ptbo #peterborough #journalism #journalist #news #fyp ♬ Akon's Beautiful Day - Akon

The following were the project costs equalling $266,394:

• Fire safety upgrades - $26,807

• Shelter washroom renovation - $71,041

• Increase video monitoring of shelter exterior - $15,300

• Piping rerouting work in the front of shelter - $16,500

• Carriage House Roof Replacement - $17,415

• Shelter basement floor repair - $2,402

• Shelter generator install - $55,000

• Side fencing replaement - $8,253

• PurePave installation and landscape repair - $22,240

• Structural work and winterization of upper porch - $23,960

• Exterior prep and painting - $7,476

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CP24 Breakfast to Broadcast in Peterborough For National Canoe Day This Thursday

To kick off canoeing season in style, Toronto morning news show CP24 Breakfast is broadcasting live from Peterborough on National Canoe Day this Thursday.

National Canoe Day events at The Canadian Canoe Museum will include voyageur canoe tours, a book launch, the museum’s Annual General Meeting, and a festive atmosphere stretching from the Exhibition Hall to the docks. File Photo.

The special broadcast is the result of a collaborative effort between Peterborough Tourism, the City’s destination marketing program, and Destination Ontario. Featured segments will highlight the Canadian Canoe Museum, the Trent–Severn Waterway National Historic Site of Canada, luxury canal cruising company Le Boat, and Peterborough’s vibrant downtown culinary scene.

The broadcast is part of a day-long celebration of National Canoe Day, with festivities taking place at The Canadian Canoe Museum. It also builds on recent international attention garnered by both the museum and the Trent–Severn Waterway, as featured in The New York Times and Time Magazine. 

“Previous councils have supported The Canadian Canoe Museum for many great reasons. Local support has been essential for securing additional funding and in order to share this unique attraction with the world,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “This is an incredible opportunity to celebrate our community’s deep connection to water and canoeing culture. Credit goes to all those whose vision and tenacity brought this to life.” 

The Canadian Canoe Museum continues to attract visitors to the city, creating opportunities for other tourism assets in Peterborough, including arts and culture, year-round events and a dynamic downtown with diverse dining options, to share the spotlight.

“In many ways, The Canadian Canoe Museum has anchored an attraction corridor that is accessible by both land and water,” said Councillor Alex Bierk. “This live broadcast gives us the opportunity to celebrate that unique access. We look forward to showcasing our city to new and returning visitors this summer and fall.”

CP24 Breakfast will air live from Peterborough on Thursday from 7 to 9 a.m. and will be available on television and via livestream at cp24.com. 

“There’s no better place to celebrate National Canoe Day than at The Canadian Canoe Museum!” said Carolyn Hyslop, Canadian Canoe Museum executive director. “This year marks our first full season at the water’s edge, and we are thrilled to kick off our busy summer season by welcoming visitors for a day filled with paddling, storytelling, and community connection. These celebrations also coincide with hosting our second Builder in Residence, Pinock, who is constructing an Algonquin birch bark canoe in the Living Traditions Centre.” 

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Peterborough Transit Service Updates Effective This Sunday

Peterborough Transit will implement adjustments to some routes beginning Sunday.

File Photo.

Route 7 Lansdowne 

The following weekday trips will be temporarily suspended until Sept. 2, when high school resumes:   

• Westbound trip departing the Walker at Bramble stop at 7:45 a.m.  

• Eastbound trips departing Willowcreek Plaza at 8:05 a.m. and departing Fleming College at 2:40 p.m. 

Service on Route 7 Lansdowne continues to operate every 30 minutes. 

Route 9 Parkhill 

The following weekday trips will be temporarily suspended until Sept. 2: 

• Westbound trips departing Trent University – Gzowski College at 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. 

• Eastbound trip departing Fleming College at 7:55 a.m. will be replaced by a trip that departs at 8 a.m. 

Route 10 Technology Drive 

A new permanent daily trip will be added, operating from 7:55 a.m. to 8:35 a.m., Monday through Friday. 

Community Bus Route 23 

To prioritize safety and alleviate traffic congestion, Route 23 will no longer enter the parking lot at the Parkway Centre. Stops will continue to be served at Lansdowne at the Parkway and The Parkway at Towersgate.  

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Peterborough Petes Acquire Overage Defenceman From Owen Sound Attack

The Peterborough Petes have acquired overage defenceman James Petrovski from the Owen Sound Attack in exchange for four draft picks, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Terry Wilson and the OHL.

In exchange for Petrovski, the Petes send away Owen Sound’s third-round pick in 2026, a second-round pick in 2027, a fifth-round pick in 2028, and a third-round pick in 2029.

The Mississauga-born defenceman was originally selected by the Flint Firebirds in the second round, 33rd overall, of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection. He played parts of two seasons in Flint, scoring 14 points in 73 games, before being acquired by the Owen Sound Attack in November 2022. Since joining Owen Sound, Petrovski registered 85 points in 180 games. In October last year, Petrovski was named an assistant captain of the Attack.

“James is a big, veteran defenceman who plays a solid two-way game,” said Michael Oke, general manager and vice president of operations. “With over 250 games in the OHL and his time being an assistant captain, his leadership and experience is a great addition to our blueline as we continue to build our team for next season. This move falls in line with the plan that we’ve been putting together to reshape our roster. We’ll be making some more exciting roster announcements in the near future.”

This past season, Petrovski had career numbers, scoring four goals and 37 assists for 41 points. Petrovski also has 30 games of playoff experience during his time in the OHL, including helping Flint reach the Western Conference final in the 2021-22 season.

Petrovski is the second overage player that the Petes have brought in this offseason. On June 12, Peterborough acquired OA forward Matthew Soto from the Kingston Frontenacs in exchange for three picks.

The CHL Import Draft takes place on July 2 at 11 a.m.

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City Employee Given Award for Distinguished Service in Municipal Information Technology

The City of Peterborough has recognized Jamie Hagg, Manager Enterprise Technology, with the esteemed Regena Lerke Award for Distinguished Service by the Municipal Information Systems Association of Ontario (MISA).

Photo courtesy of MISA.

The Regena Lerke Award recognizes those who demonstrate outstanding service to MISA Ontario, going above and beyond in their support of the organization and its members while embodying the values of integrity, humour and humanity. Recipients are selected by a panel of representatives from municipalities across Ontario.  

Hagg has had a 25-year career with the City. His longstanding involvement with MISA Ontario includes more than eight years on the Board of Directors, serving in several key roles including Director, Central Region (2017 to 2019), Vice President (2019 to 2021) and President (2021 to 2023). Hagg just completed a two-year term as Past President in June.  

“Over the past eight years, this individual has served on the MISA Ontario Board with consistency, thoughtfulness, and a calm, kind approach to leadership,” MISA stated. “Jamie has been a steady presence — someone who listens carefully, considers all perspectives, and helps guide decisions with clarity and respect.” 

“This award is a well-deserved recognition of the incredible work and dedication shown over the years. Jamie’s leadership in municipal IT and his commitment to collaboration across Ontario have made a lasting impact, not just here in Peterborough, but across the province. On behalf of Council, I want to thank Jamie for his outstanding service and congratulate him on this remarkable achievement,” said Councillor Andrew Beamer.

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Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Launches New Website

The Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) has officially launched Phase 2 of its website TheBoro.ca, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the DBIA.

The reworked website helps visitors and locals to plan and enhance their downtown experience according to a press release.

Support from Regional Tourism Organization 8 (RT08) through their Partnership Allocation Program helped DBIA create the website.

The website was originally developed during the pandemic as an online shopping portal. It has become a digital destination for visitors and residents, aligning with the DBIA’s mission to enhance downtown Peterborough’s economic vitality, community connection and cultural vibrancy according to Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director

“TheBoro.ca is more than just a website. It’s a crucial part of our long-term strategy for fostering economic growth and cultural vibrancy in the heart of Peterborough,” she said. “We really want people to feel excited about exploring our downtown, whether they’re visiting us for the first time or just looking for a great way to spend their weekend.”

The new platform serves as a central hub for downtown Peterborough to discover events, local businesses or trip ideas.

It also gives downtown business owners, artists, and local event organizers a central stage to share their offerings, helping them reach new audiences and network within the community and among visitors.

Some new features of  TheBoro.ca include:

• An Interactive business directory with mapping tools and highly curated categories

• A dynamic events calendar with DBIA-led events and community submissions with everything from live music and customer appreciation events to theatre shows, family festivals and exclusive pop-up events

• Trip-planning content such as self-guided tours and itineraries, local stories and business/artist spotlights and guides

• Integrated connections to the Boro Gift Card, exclusive Boro merchandise and newsletters

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