Half-Load Restrictions On Commercial Vehicles End

Half-load restrictions for commercial vehicles on City of Peterborough streets have been lifted since taking effect on March 1.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The restrictions are put in place each spring to protect roads during the annual thaw, when they are more vulnerable to damage. Reducing weight limits during this time helps preserve road conditions. 

Half-load restrictions end on the following streets: 

• Airport Road from Sir Sanford Fleming Drive to the south city limits 

• Armour Road from Nassau Mills Road to Paddock Wood 

• Ashburnham Drive from McFarlane Street to Maria Street 

• Ashburnham Drive from Neal Drive to the south city limits 

• Bensfort Road from River Road South to the south city limits 

• Brealey Drive from Parkhill Road West to Sherbrooke Street 

• Carnegie Avenue 

• Crawford Drive from Sir Sanford Fleming Drive to 0.6 km east of The Parkway 

• Cumberland Avenue from Ungava Avenue to Carnegie Avenue 

• Dobbin Road 

• Guthrie Drive 

• Harper Road 

• Hetherington Drive from Richard Road to Woodland Drive 

• Johnston Drive 

• MacFarlane Avenue from Trentview Road to Television Road 

• Maniece Avenue from Ashburnham Drive to Television Road 

• McNamara Road from Guthrie Drive to Driscoll Road 

• Nassau Mills Road 

• Old Norwood Road from Ashburnham Drive to Television Road 

• Otonabee Drive 

• Parkhill Road East from Armour Road to Trent Severn Waterway Swing Bridge 

• Pioneer Road 

• River Road South from Lansdowne Street to Bensfort Road 

• Sherbrooke Street from Glenforest Boulevard to the west city limits 

• Simons Avenue 

• Towerhill Road from Chemong Road to Fairbairn Street 

• University Road 

• Wallace Point Road from Bensfort Road to Driscoll Road 

• Whittington Drive 

• Woodland Drive 

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Routine Water Main Flushing Begins Monday Until June 26

Routine flushing of water mains in various areas of the city starts on Monday and continues until June 26.

Watermain flushing is a routine part of the annual system maintenance by the City’s Water Services Division to assist in maintaining water quality and reliability of the water distribution system.  Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Flushing will take place on weekdays between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.  

During flushing, residents may notice a temporary discolouration or cloudy appearance in their water for a brief period, as well as possible changes in water pressure.

The City of Peterborough says the water will remain safe for consumption.

To clear the water, run the cold water tap closest to the water meter for 10 to 15 minutes until it runs clear. If discolouration persists, wait one hour and repeat the process. 

If the issue persists, contact Water Services by phone at 705-748-9301 ext. 1295.

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PRHC Performs First-Ever Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Procedure in Peterborough

The Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) has performed its first-ever Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) procedure in the hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab, announced on Thursday morning.

PRHC is now the only hospital between Kingston and Scarborough to offer Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator. Photo courtesy of the PRHC.

Dr. Heather Cox, PRHC’s Deputy Chief of Surgery and Section Lead for Vascular Surgery, successfully performed the ICD procedure in March. She was supported by peers from University Health Network (UHN), who also provided training for nursing staff in the lead-up to PRHC’s first patient procedure.

According to the PRHC, an ICD is a small, battery-powered device surgically placed under the skin to monitor for and treat life-threatening, fast heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, that can cause sudden cardiac death. It uses wires to deliver low-energy pacing or high-energy shocks to restore normal heart rhythm. If a life-threatening change in the heart’s rhythm occurs, the ICD automatically delivers a shock to restore normal rhythm, even if the patient is unconscious and alone.

“It’s a life-saving procedure to receive a defibrillator,” said Dr. Cox. “The patient will have the safety of knowing that they’re being monitored carefully, and that the defibrillator will treat them if they run into an unsafe heart rhythm, and restore the heart into a normal, safe rhythm.”

Peterborough resident Ron was the first patient to undergo the ICD procedure. He reports that he is doing very well and feeling fantastic.

“These patients were previously having to travel to sites in Toronto and Kingston to have an ICD implanted. To be able to provide this advanced procedure closer to home at PRHC is an important step forward for the hospital’s regional cardiovascular care program and for patients across our community and region,“ saidd Dr. Cox.

The addition of the ICD procedure is one of several planned expansions to the cardiac program as we work toward a future in which PRHC offers full-service cardiovascular care for patients across the region.

“It’s extremely exciting to see another example of how donor generosity coupled with PRHC’s vision and the skills of its doctors, nurses and staff can so significantly transform patient care,” said Lesley Heighway, President & CEO of the PRHC Foundation. “Donor investment in building PRHC’s capability and capacity to transition to a comprehensive cardiac care program has enabled the introduction of ICD insertion right here, close to home. This will impact so many patients who would otherwise have to travel to Kingston or Toronto for the procedure to insert this life-saving device. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who’s been a part of this ongoing journey. Thank you!”

“The new life-saving treatments coming to PRHC will once again change the face of cardiac care in our region,” said Jim Neill, the philanthropist after whom the hospital’s James B. Neill Cardiac Centre was named in 2021. “I’m glad that my commitment is helping ‘keep our hearts here’ as PRHC builds on a donor-funded cardiac care foundation, on its way to a third cardiac lab and ultimately a full-service heart centre. I’m honoured to be part of the tradition of philanthropy that has supported this hospital since the beginning. I hope that my donation and what it’s helping to make possible will encourage and inspire others, as the donors who have come before have inspired me.”

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Trent University Chinese Program of Languages and Linguistics On Display at Its 25th Chinese Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition

The Chinese Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition for Foreign University Students was successfully at Trent University on Saturday.

Dr. Shaoling Wang (left) and third-place winner Antonella Batchi (right). Batachi competed and placed in the top three despite having studied only one semester of Chinese. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

The event was organized by the Chinese Program of Languages and Linguistics (L&L) and sponsored by the Centre for Language Education and Cooperation in China, as well as the Education Division of the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto.

This year’s competition was especially significant as it marked the 25th anniversary of the globally recognized event. The theme, ‘One World, One Family,’ which emphasized cross-cultural understanding and global connection.

The competition consisted of two parts: a speech and a cultural talent performance. According to a press release, participants demonstrated not only linguistic ability but also creativity and cultural appreciation through performances tied to Chinese traditions. The event also featured special guest performances, including a Comic Cross Talk presentation by Mr. Qining Wang and Heliang Yu of the Toronto Happy Laughing Association, and a traditional dance by students from Queen’s University, adding further cultural richness and audience engagement to the program.

Dr. Shaoling Wang from Trent’s Chinese Program of L&L has long been involved in the event, serving both as an adjudicator and as a dedicated mentor preparing students for participation. In earlier years, Trent University had limited recognition and support for the event, with most funding directed toward larger institutions. Through continued effort and advocacy, Dr. Wang successfully secured funding this year, enabling Trent’s Chinese Program to host the competition—an important milestone for the university.

Students trained by Dr. Wang have achieved notable success in past competitions, earning first-, second- and third-place prizes. This year, two of her students, Antonella Batchi and Magali Nichol, participated in the contest.

Although Magali Nichol was unable to compete in person due to a recent move, she submitted pre-recorded entries for both components of the competition. Her talent performance featured a traditional Chinese folk song played on the piano, demonstrating both musical skill and cultural appreciation.

Antonella Batchi earned third prize, despite that she had studied Chinese for only one semester. Batachi recited a poem by a Tang Dynasty poet reflecting on enduring friendship despite distance, aligning with the competition theme.

The competition brought together participants from multiple institutions, including Trent University, the University of Toronto (Scarborough, St. George, and Mississauga campuses), and Toronto Metropolitan University. The first and 2 second prize winners came from the University of Toronto Scarborough campus and Mississauga campus, and they are Thuy Nguyen, Brendan Webster and Harshita Nagireddy, respectively, while the remaining two third prize winners (a total of three) are Alon Averbouch and Bobbi Rimrott, represented the University of Toronto St. George campus and Toronto Metropolitan University. The remaining contestants also contributed to the strong level of competition. The MC of the event was last year’s first prize winner of the competition, Elizabeth Schunner, who graduated from the University of Waterloo. She used both Chinese and English to connect the contestants and the audience.

To make the competition more transparent and fair, the organizing committee invited adjudicators experienced in Chinese language teaching outside the university system. They are: Mr. Tian Yang from the International Language, Peel District School Board; Ms. Yuanzhi Cai from the International Language, Toronto District School Board; Ms. Ling Yu, retired from Havergal College; Ms. Jinghua Li from Hong He Chinese School, Waterloo and Ms. Jingming Li from Upper Canada College.

Distinguished guests in attendance included Trent University’s Associate Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences and Languages and Linguistics Coordinator, Dr. Martin Boyne; Counselor Meng Zhang and Consul Ying Wang of the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto – Education Division; and Allie Bonner from the office of Peterborough MP Emma Harrison. They delivered opening and closing remarks, recognizing the importance of the event and celebrating participants' achievements.

As Dr. Shaoling Wang noted, events such as the Chinese Bridge Chinese Language Proficiency Competition not only promote awareness of the Chinese language and culture and highlight the host institution, but also, most importantly, provide valuable opportunities for student volunteers to develop teamwork and organizational skills.

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Canadian Country Artist Tyler Joe Miller to Make Peterborough Musicfest Debut On July 15

Rising Canadian country artist Tyler Joe Miller is making his Peterborough Musicfest debut on the Fred Anderson Stage on July 15 at 8 p.m. at Del Crary Park, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Peterborough Musicfest.

Since breaking through with his Gold-certified, #1 debut single ‘Pillow Talkin’,’ Miller became the first independent Canadian country artist to land back-to-back number one hits with ‘I Would Be Over Me Too,’ and has since earned nine Top 10 singles, a 2021 SiriusXM Top of the Country win and multiple JUNO and CCMA nominations. His latest EP, ‘Going Home’ has been nominated for 2025 CCMA Album of the Year.

Miller will make an appearance at the CCMA Awards this September, nominated for Male Artist of the Year and Fans’ Choice.

He joins the Musicfest schedule with Gowan who plays on opening night on June 27 and Dwayne Gretzky on July 29.

Returning this season are the on-site food vendors, the 50/50 draw and the Future Sound Series. Musicfest concerts are run every Wednesday and Saturday from June 27 to Aug. 19.

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Century 21 United Realty Acquires Century 21 All-Pro Realty In Cobourg

Century 21 United Realty has acquired brokerage Century 21 All-Pro Realty in Cobourg, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Century 21 United Realty Inc.

According to Century 21 United Realty, this merger represents more than a business decision—it’s a heartfelt joining of two brokerages that share the same core values, family roots and long-standing commitment to the people and communities they serve according to Vanessa Oake Hogan, Century 21 United Realty owner.

“This partnership feels like a natural extension of what both our families have built,” she said. “We share the same beliefs about integrity, service, and community. My father, Carl, always believed in people first—and that spirit lives on in this next chapter. I only wish he were here to see it.”

Carl Oake founded Century 21 United Realty in 1978. Garry and Liz Liboiron established Century 21 All-Pro Realty three decades ago, serving the Northumberland community since 1993. Over the years, Oake and Garry were known to be cordial with each other, having friendly competitions and team-building mystery tours and lively company events.

The merger provides agents and clients with greater access, collaboration and reacch to provide real estate services across Peterborough, the Kawarthas and Northumberland. Agents from both offices have expanded market insights, shared resources, and a stronger network for client support.

“We are honoured to carry forward All-Pro’s history while looking ahead to an exciting future—one that blends legacy, heart, and innovation,” said Oake Hogan. “This is a celebration of shared purpose and connection.”

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Three Bonnerworth Park Pickleball Courts Closed Due to Vandalism

Three pickleball courts at Bonnerworth Park, including one accessible court, will not open as scheduled on Friday due to vandalism in the park.   

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

According to the City, earlier this week, rocks and high-visibility paint-filled balloons were thrown over the fence surrounding the pickleball courts at the park, resulting in damage to the playing surfaces on three of the 14 courts. 

The City cannot provide an estimate of repair costs or the duration of closures at this time.

The vandalism has been reported to Peterborough Police Service. Anyone with information is asked to call them at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

The remaining pickleball courts at Bonnerworth Park are scheduled to open on Friday.  

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Trent Valley Archives Hosting Play Adaptation of Former Peterborough Ontario Superior Court Judge's Memoir 'The Kid from Simcoe Street'

To retell the trials and tribulations of Peterborough in the 1940s and 50s, Trent Valley Archives (TVA) is putting on a fundraising production of Ontario Superior Court Judge James Clarke’s memoirs, ‘The Kid From Simcoe Street,’ at Market Hall from June 4-7.

(From left to right) James Clarke, Author ‘The Kid From Simcoe Street;’ David Clarke, James’s Grandson; R. Kenneth Armstrong, Historian and Murray Byrne. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Trent Valley Archives received permission to adapt the memoir, with proceeds going to the Archives for book donations to sell.

The 2012 memoirs focus on the trials and tribulations of Clarke and his St. Peter’s Catholic Secondary School football teammate, Murray Byrne, as they grew up poor in post-war Peterborough in the 1940s and 1950s.

Prior to the production, Clarke and Byrne held a Community Reminiscence and Reunion event (hosted by TVA), speaking to an audience about the memoirs at Princess Gardens on Tuesday afternoon.

Byrne currently resides in the Bridgnorth area and with theatre experience, will have a cameo role.

Clarke practised law in Cobourg for many years until his appointment to the bench in 1983. He served on the Ontario Court of Justice from 1990 to 1999 and the Superior Court of Justice from 1999 until his retirement in 2008. He began writing poetry in 1995. He is the author of more than 20 poetry books and received a Horizons of Friendship Founders Award in 2018, ‘for the exceptional strength and commitment they have shown as volunteers and leaders in their communities.’ He has been involved with the Covenant House of Toronto, Plan International Canada, Chalice, Michael House, the food bank and the Welcome Drop-in Centre in Guelph, the city where he now resides.

@ptbo_canada A piece of history is being brought to life by Trent Valley Archives, putting on a production at Market Hall of the memoirs of Ontario, Superior Court Judge, James Clarke in his memoir, “The kid from Simcoe Street” from June 4-7. ##ptbocanada##journalism##fyp##news##dailynews ♬ We Should Stick Together - elijah woods

Tickets can be purchased from the Market Hall Performing Arts Centre box office, Monday to Friday, noon to 5 p.m., by phoning (705) 749-1146, emailing boxoffice@markethall.com or purchasing them online.

The play is suitable for ages 14 to adult, running for approximately 80 minutes. There will be a 20-minute intermission.

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The Vine Scaling Back Operations Due to Health Issues; GoFundMe Created to Aid In Recovery

A GoFundMe has been created for pescetarian restaurant The Vine, which has had to cut back its operating hours and service after its co-owner, Tyrone Flowers, posted an emotional message on Instagram on Thursday morning about his unknown health issues.

Tyrone Flowers, The Vine Co-Owner opened the pescatrian restaurant in late May of 2023. File Photo.

“We don't know what the ****’s going on with me,” explained Flowers. “Doctors don't seem to seem to know, there’s lots of tests that still need to be done.”

On April 9, The Vine first went on reduced hours after a trip to the ER according to their Instagram post. Since then, the restaurant has operated on some days with reduced hours and cancelled events. The Vine could not be open consistently due to Flowers’s health issues, which could possibly be a stroke.

“We really haven’t been able to open much since the beginning of April due to debilitating migraines, fainting spells, confusion during service and many more symptoms,” said Lauren Mortlock, Flowers’s spouse and co-owner.

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A post shared by The Vine (@thevine_ptbo)

She started a GoFundMe on Wednesday with a $10,000 goal to help the couple during this period while Flowers recovers.

“We still have specialist appointments, CT scans, MRIs and more ahead of us before we get any answers and with no income coming in it’s hard to keep going,” explained Mortlock. “We are looking for financial support to get us through a month or two while he recovers from what we have been told could be a stroke.”

Flowers reluctantly agreed to the GoFundMe only as a last resort.

“Lauren set up a GoFundMe which was really hard for me to say okay to because if you know me, you know that I hate asking for help but that’s where we are,” he explained.

Flowers and Mortlock are known for giving back, providing free community meals, running animal-fundraising initiatives, giveaways and more.

The GoFundMe has nearly reached $3,000 at the time of this article’s publication. Flowers said he will update the public as often as he can.

Donations to the GoFundMe page can be made by clicking here.

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Peterborough County Declares May As Museum Month

Peterborough County has proclaimed May as Museum Month to celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage and the vital role museums play in communities, as announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth King and Lang Pioneer Village.

This year, Museum Month also includes International Museum Day on May 18, a global celebration that recognizes museums as centers of education, innovation, and cultural connection, according to Bonnie Clark, Peterborough County Warden.

“During Museum Month, we invite everyone to explore the charm, heritage, and stories that make Peterborough County and The Kawarthas so special,” she said. From scenic rural landscapes to immersive historic experiences, the region offers meaningful opportunities to connect with the past. A standout destination is Lang Pioneer Village Museum, where a recreated 19th-century village brings early rural life to life through heritage buildings, traditional skills, and hands-on experiences. It offers visitors an authentic taste of the history, landscapes, and traditions that define The Kawarthas.” 

Peterborough County highlighted Lang Pioneer Village, noting that they do more than preserve history — they foster learning, inspire curiosity and contribute to our local economy and shared identity.

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