City of Peterborough Encourages Residents to Celebrate Nature During the Great Canadian BioBlitz

/

The City of Peterborough invites residents to step outside and celebrate the beauty of nature, while learning more about local biodiversity during the Great Canadian BioBlitz starting Sunday until Sept. 28.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The City describes a bioblitz as a fun and educational way to record observations of plants, animals, and fungi, which helps scientists better understand local population sizes and biodiversity trends. 

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with the outdoors and explore the natural beauty of our city,” said City Councillors Joy Lachica and Kevin Duguay. “Whether you’re spotting birds, identifying trees, or just enjoying the fall colours, nature is something we all benefit from in Peterborough.” 

The City encourages residents to visit a City park to participate in self-guided bio-blitzes using the iNaturalist app. A complete list of the City’s parks can be found at peterborough.ca/parks. 

The Peterborough Field Naturalists are leading three guided walks in Peterborough-area parks to help residents learn more about the species living in the region.

  • A tree Identification Forest Walk takes place Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 6:30 p.m.to 8 p.m. at Ecology Park, 1899 Ashburnham Dr. Meet at the shelter in the middle of the park by 6:30 p.m. 

  • Two Mushroom Identification Walks are taking place on Sunday, Sept.r 21 and Sunday, Sept. 28, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park, 846 Highway 7. Register for the walks at peterboroughnature.org/events.   

These free family-friendly walks are open to all levels of nature enthusiasts.

To learn how to use iNaturalist, visit the Peterborough Public Library Learning Portal. Nature sightings can be uploaded directly to the Great Canadian BioBlitz project page in the iNaturalist app using the following link.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

Matthew Soto's Four-Point Night Propels Peterborough Petes to Home Opener Victory Over Brampton Steelheads

/

Matthew Soto’s hot start and four points helped the Peterborough Petes start the regular season on the right foot as they won their home opener, 6-3, against the Brampton Steelheads at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday night.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Petes.

Soto started the scoring after getting a centreing pass from Leon Kolarik and then ripped it past former Petes goaltender Zach Bowen for 1-0 lead. The Petes quickly lost the lead as Keaton Ardaugh scored just under three minutes later on the power play then Brampton tacked on another goal thanks to Julian Demiglio just 90 seconds later. The Petes showed off their power play prowess as Adam Levac faked a shot then quickly dished it to Kolarik for the tip-in goal to tie it at two apiece headed into the second period. Soto had the secondary assist.

Colin Fitzgerald, Peterborough’s 2024 first-round OHL priority selection pick made his presence felt to kick off the stanza. He won a faceoff on the power play and saw the puck get cycled back to him. He wristed it past Bowen and Peterborough regained the lead, 3-2, as the period’s only goal. Soto earned his third point with another secondary assist.

David Green tied the game, 4:33 into the third period but that was as far as Brampton got. Peterborough and Soto held the zone that fed the puck to Brennan Faulkner. He took a wide-angle from just inside the faceoff circle and scored to pull ahead, 4-3. Just as Brampton’s power play was about to finish, Francis Parish forced a turnover in the offensive zone and slipped it past Bowen for the insurance marker and a 5-3 lead. Faulkner added an empty-net goal and the Petes were successful in their home opener with a 6-4 win.

The Petes have their first road game of the season to take on the Brantford Bulldogs this Saturday at the TD Civic Centre at 7 p.m.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Peterborough Police Seeking Bank Investigator Scam Suspect; Authorizes Share Tips to Protect Your Money

/

The Peterborough Police Service is investigating after receiving several reports of bank investigator scams over the last two weeks.

Photo COURTESY OF THE pETERBOROUGH pOLICE.

In one case, the suspect posed as a representative from a banking institution, attended a Peterborough retirement home and picked up the 91-year-old victim’s bank card and VISA. Police determined that there were purchases on the VISA card and an ATM withdrawal of about $3,000.

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

In this scam, fraudsters pose as bank investigators or security staff. These criminals claim to be investigating suspicious activity and trick victims into handing over money, card or account details.

How the Scam Works:

You receive a phone call, text or email claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department or a bank investigator. The scammer says there is suspicious activity on your account.

They may ask you to:

  •  Withdraw cash and hand it over to a “bank investigator” or courier.

  •  Transfer money to a “safe account” to protect it.

  •  Provide your bank card, PIN, or online banking credentials.

Key Warning Signs

  • A caller pressures you to act immediately.

  • You are asked to keep the call secret or not tell bank staff.

  • They request you to move or withdraw funds in unusual ways.

  • Caller ID may look like your bank, but this can be spoofed.

How to Protect Yourself

  • Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card or statement.

  • Never share your PIN, online banking password, or verification codes.

  • Do not withdraw or transfer money at someone else’s direction.

  • Verify independently – if someone claims to be a bank investigator, contact your bank by calling the number on your card or attending the local branch.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City of Peterborough Recognizes the 2024 Civic Awards Recipients

/

The City of Peterborough recognized outstanding citizens and groups for their contributions to its residents during the 2024 Civic Awards ceremony, held at the McDonnel Street Community Centre on Tuesday evening.

Councillor Joy Lachica speaking at the 2024 Civic Awards ceremony. Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Since 1953, the Civic Awards have recognized individuals and groups that have contributed to enhancing the City through their dedication to sports, volunteerism, the arts and environmentalism.  

“The Civic Awards are one of the most meaningful ways we can say thank you to the residents who make Peterborough a better place,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Each nominee and recipient represent the spirit of generosity, creativity and commitment that defines Peterborough.”

Community members first nominate Civic Award recipients and a Citizen Appointment Selection Working Group reviews each nomination. A list of candidates is then brought to City Council for consideration.  

Here are this year’s Civic Award recipients:  

Community Betterment  

  • Peterborough Housing Food Bank Volunteers  

  • Aya Darrouba  

  • Kinsmen Club of Peterborough 

  • Trevor Hesselink 

  • Activity Haven Board of Directors 

  • Good Neighbours Care Centre 

Cultural Betterment 

  • Guru Sai Charan Pitla  

  • Friends of the Library 

  • Peterborough Girls Hockey Association  

Environmental Stewardship/Sustainability 

  • Laura Gardner 

  • Shelley Strain 

Athletic Award of Merit 

  • Matthew Kathiravelu 

  • Toula Pappas 

  • Stone Shearer 

Mayor’s Youth Award  

  • Rayne Froggatt 

Holnbeck Award 

  • John Morris

Junior Athlete of the Year 

  • Nicole Jin

Adult Athlete of the Year 

  • Cole Lester

Senior Athlete of the Year 

  • John Kasperski

Youth Volunteer of the Year 

  • Brianna Hearn-Finney

Volunteer of the Year 

  • Yvonne Zerafa-Rapson

Lifetime Achievement Award 

  • Henry Clarke

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Trent Excalibur Men's Soccer Looking to Maintain Hot Start With Friday's Matchup Vs. Queen's University

/

The Trent Excalibur men’s soccer team is trying to stay hot as they take Queen’s University at the Justin Chiu Stadium on Friday at 6 p.m.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and Trent Excalibur.

The Excalibur are off to one of their best starts to a season with a 3-1 record, earning wins over Nipissing, Ontario Tech and RMC but falling to Toronto Metropolitan.

“Our men’s soccer program has embraced a transformative mindset this year,” says Grant Purdy, Excalibur head coach. “From day one, the players have bought into a growth philosophy, focusing on accountability and team confidence. We’ve taken it one match at a time, and the results speak for themselves. Friday will be another big test in front of our home crowd.” 

Trent sits fourth in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) East standings; however, they have a game in hand over all teams ahead of them. Queen’s has also played an extra match and is nipping at Excalibur’s heels in fifth place with a 2-1-2 record.

Two offensive players have had standout performances in Excalibur history as well as in provincial and national standings. This includes third-year Forensic Science student-athlete Leo Frans (Champlain College) and rookie Jon Moncada (Lady Eaton College), a Business Administration student.

Frans is one goal away from tying the all-time Excalibur scoring record with 14. Moncada leads the team with six goals this season, which ties him for the league lead with Niklas Hallam of Toronto Metropolitan. One more goal would see Moncada match Frans’ record for most goals in a debut season.  

“There’s a real buzz at Trent right now. Our Excalibur teams are off to a great start and competing with the best in the OUA,” said Nathan McFadden, director of Athletics and Recreation. “The men’s soccer program has shown incredible growth and is poised to make a strong run for OUA playoffs. Friday’s home game is a chance for our community to come together and support them as they chase history.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Man Wanted On Large-Scale Police Search Given Additional Charges

/

A 34-year-old man wanted in connection with a large-scale police search that began Tuesday afternoon is facing more charges, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

At roughly 1:15 p.m. on Tuesday, officers with Peterborough Police Service Investigative Services, with the provincial ROPE (Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement) squad, were working to apprehend a man wanted on a warrant for substantial property-related crimes.

When officers attempted to stop the suspect’s vehicle in the Simcoe Street and Aylmer Street area, it struck a police vehicle and fled from police. The man then drove to the area of Little Lake Cemetery before swimming across Little Lake and heading north along Ashburnham Drive toward Old Norwood Road.

A large-scale search was launched in the area of Old Norwood Road, Television Road, Maniece Avenue and Ashburnham Drive, involving the Emergency Response Team, K9, and the RPAS unit, as well as an OPP helicopter. However, the man was not located.

About 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, police received a call about a suspicious man wrapped in a blanket in the area of Parkhill Road and Television Road. When officers arrived, they learned he had left in a vehicle. The suspect was located on a property where he had been staying in Peterborough County shortly after. He was found under a bed in a trailer by K9 Gryphon and taken into custody.

In addition to his original charges, the man was further charged with:

  • Assault Peace officer with a weapon (striking a police vehicle with an officer inside)

  • Operation while prohibited under the Criminal Code

  • Dangerous operation

  • Flight from peace officer

  • Failure to comply with release order

  • Breach of Recognizance

  • Disobeying Order of Court

The accused appeared in court on Wednesday and was remanded into custody.  He will appear in court again on Friday.

The Peterborough Police Service would like to thank the many members of the public who provided information. 

New Mural Hits Downtown Peterborough to Celebrate Art, Community and Connection This Fall

/

To celebrate art, community, and connection, downtown Peterborough is welcoming a new mural created by local Anishinaabe artist Josh Morley (Miskopwagan Asin) this fall.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough DBIA

Facilitated by First Friday Peterborough, the mural will be painted on Water Street between Key Design Inc. and Scotiabank.

“The hug is a universal symbol. It’s an action of support, connection and optimism - values that reflect the strength of the Peterborough community,” said Morley. “Through this mural, I hope to encourage us all to keep showing up for one another. Public art has the power to spark connection and belonging, and my wish is that this piece not only inspires those feelings but also adds to the vitality and beauty of our downtown.” 

“Serving on the mural jury was both exciting and weighted with responsibility. We wanted to create new opportunities for local artists, and it was inspiring to see so many beautiful proposals submitted. Choosing just one was not easy, and every artist should be so proud of themselves” says Ashley Hall, First Friday committee member, mural jury, and local artist. “I’m excited to see this mural bring vitality back to the space and reflect the values of connection, inclusivity, and love… all beautifully captured in a single hug.”

An unveiling event to take place during the October First Friday Art Crawl event on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m., at the mural location.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Volunteers Encouraged to Help At Wedgewood Park's Tree-Planting Event This Saturday

/

Wedgewood Park is undergoing an urban forest update and the City is inviting residents to plant 515 new native tree species from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday.

Google Maps Screenshot.

“We expect over 60 volunteers,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “High school students are welcome to join us for community service hours.”

Volunteers can sign up for the event at peterborough.ca/trees. 

The tree planting is part of the Trees 4 Peterborough initiative. 

There are over 500 medium-sized trees and 20 big calliper trees to be planted.

This is due to significant damage from the Emerald Ash Borer. Roughly 250 dead or dying ash trees have been removed. Work will also include clearing dense understory vegetation dominated by invasive Buckthorn.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

New Burger Joint Law & Orders Hosts Grand Opening In East City

/

From Innisville to Pembroke and more, burger joint Law & Orders has made Peterborough its seventh location after hosting its grand opening in East City on Wednesday morning.

Founded and owned by Jamie Law, the business initially opened in Innisville on Highway 7 in 2014 and has since expanded to seven total locations. The establishment is located at 89 Hunter St. E. at the former Loaded Pierogi location and Reggie’s Hot Grill before that. Knowing the history of the building, Lee says it was a perfect fit for him to expand his business to Peterborough.

“I heard it was a great opportunity and a fantastic city and we stumbled upon this fantastic spot that used to be a burger place back in the day,” he explained. “We were lucky enough to score the building and the rest is history. The community has been coming out in full support, everyone's been loving the burgers and I couldn't be more happy.”

The restaurant serves burgers, fries, hot dogs, burger bowls, wraps, poutines, milkshakes and more. Their style ensures freshness in all their ingredients, a throwback to how burgers were originally made, unlike the methods of several current fast-food burger chains according to Law.

“It (the burgers) does take a few extra minutes to cook but it's fresh-cooked to order, it's all hand-cut fries and all fresh ingredients,” he explained. “It's basically back to the day where burgers were cooked so they're not sitting in CVap or a warming drawer. They're cooked to order on a grill with fresh beef, so it's fantastic. The taste is there, you can't beat it.”

@ptbo_canada Small burger franchise @Law & Orders joins Peterborough in East City! #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #burgers ♬ The Burger（剪辑版） - Ima Burger

Customers had lined up prior to doors opening, a pleasant surprise much to Law’s delight.

“I didn't think that many people would be lining up waiting to get inside the building right at the beginning,” he explained. “I've done this several times before and usually it trickles in and then it ramps up as the day goes on but it was a full smash in your face right off the bat as soon as we opened in the door.” 

The restaurant has a charity aspect, partnering with country singer/songwriter Jason Blaine and his charity, ‘Jason Blaine Charity.’ For each purchase of a ‘Jason Blain Burger, half the proceeds goes towards the charity.

“Jason is actually married to my sister so he's my brother-in-law,” laughed Law. “All of his money goes to other charities. It's fantastic to see how the money gets spread out throughout the community.”

Law & Order's also features a food challenge called the ‘Rhippo Challenge‘ that consists of eating two of their signature ‘Rhippo Burgers’ (a half-pound burger with bacon, cheese, mustard, ketchup, pickles, onions, mayo, lettuce and tomato) and a pound of poutine.

Challengers have 20 minutes to consume all three items and those who are successful receive their meal for free, a free t-shirt and have their photo displayed on the Rhippo Challenge Wall of Fame. There are only 29 people who won the challenge in 599 attempts after the publication of this article. The record is held by Adam Moran, downing the food in six minutes and 45 seconds.

The restaurant offers a weekly special on Tuesdays, featuring five-dollar cheeseburgers. They held the same promotion at their grand opening and again on Thursday as part of National Cheeseburger Day. Online ordering is also available for Law & Orders.

The following are Law and Orders’s business hours:

  • Monday to Thursday - 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

  • Friday and Saturday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

  • Sunday - 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Photos: Peterborough Petes Season Ticket Member BBQ Ahead of Thursday's Home Opener

/

Peterborough Petes season ticket holders had a treat before Thursday’s home opener, as the team hosted their annual Season Ticket Member BBQ at the Peterborough Memorial Centre (PMC) on Tuesday.

The Petes have their home opener against the Brampton Steelheads this Thursday at the PMC with puck drop at 7:05 p.m.

@ptbo_canada Ahead of the team’s home opener, the @Peterborough Petes held their Season Ticket BBQ at the Peterborough Memorial Centre. #ptbocanada #journalism #news #fyp #sportsontiktok ♬ Hockey Theme Song II - The Muster Point Project

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.