Rob Carleton and Crew Giving Grills a Second Life with Barbecue King

By Scott Arnold

Before hauling that old barbecue to the curb, a new Peterborough business is showing homeowners there may be another option.

rob carleton and his barbecue king crew have been busy ahead of summer grilling season (photo by scott arnold)

Barbecues are a staple of summer, but keeping them clean isn't always at the top of the to-do list. Over time, grease, food residue and carbon buildup can leave grills looking worn out and performing below their best.

That's where Barbecue King comes in.

Founded by Peterborough resident Rob Carleton, the business focuses on professional grill cleaning and restoration, helping homeowners bring their existing barbecues back to life instead of replacing them.

The fully mobile service works on a wide range of grills, including gas, pellet, charcoal, built-in cart and post-mount models.

lincoln dalliday hard at work scraping down a barbecue (photo by scott arnold)

While many people think of a dirty grill as mostly a cosmetic issue, buildup can create other problems. Excess grease can increase the risk of flare-ups, while years of residue can affect both performance and the flavour of food.

Barbecue King's deep-cleaning process is designed to remove stubborn grime, clear away grease buildup and restore grills to working condition.

jack dalliday and keenan axler take a break for a smile while doing a job for barbecue king (photo by scott arnold)

Beyond making a barbecue look better, regular cleaning can help improve performance, extend the life of the grill and create a safer cooking environment.

the dalliday boys, lincoln and jack, stand beside a freshly clean barbecue (photo by scott arnold)

looking brand new again after a deep clean from barbecue king (photo by scott arnold)

For Carleton, the goal is straightforward: helping homeowners spend more time enjoying grilling season and less time worrying about the deep cleaning that comes with it.

And for anyone staring at a barbecue that's seen better days, it might mean giving an old grill a second chance before shopping for a new one. You can find Rob at BarbecueKing.ca or 705-313-6702.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre Announces New Executive Director in Strategic Leadership Expansion

The Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC) has appointed Glenn M. Cunnington as its new Executive Director, effective June 15, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre.

Since 2009, Dr. Sue Carstairs has concurrently held the positions of Executive Director and Medical Director. According to a press release, to support continued organizational growth, the OTCC Board of Directors has included a role split in its succession plan, allowing each position to become more specialized and thereby increasing the organization’s scope and impact.

Carstairs remains in a co-leadership position as Medical Director. Dr. Kristen Janke, a long-standing veterinarian with the organization, will gradually assume the full Medical Director role, with Dr. Carstairs remaining involved but at a slower pace.

“Glenn brings with him all the qualities that OTCC needs to continue moving forward,” said Carstairs. “He is an expert in Ontario’s turtles, having been on the Committee On The Status of Species at Risk in Ontario for five years.”

Dr. Cunnington holds a Ph.D. focused on Road Ecology from Carleton University, an M.Sc. in Watershed Ecosystems and a B.Sc. in Conservation Biology from Trent University, as well as a diploma from Fleming College in Fish & Wildlife. He is a published author in road ecology and brings deep experience in stakeholder engagement, grant writing and financial stewardship.

“It is a tremendous honour to join the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre as its next Executive Director,” said Cunnington. “I want to thank Dr. Sue Carstairs for her extraordinary leadership over the past sixteen years. I am stepping into a healthy, growing organization with a remarkable culture, world-class clinical care, and an ambitious path towards 2030 already in motion.”

Core operations—including healing injured turtles, incubating eggs, and releasing healthy turtles and hatchlings back into the wild— continue uninterrupted during this transition.

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Lakefield Chiefs Looking for Volunteers Ahead of New Season

By Scott Arnold

The Graham Carpentry Lakefield Chiefs are recruiting volunteers as the junior hockey club prepares for the upcoming season.

the lakefield chiefs have put the call out to find volunteers for upcoming season (photo via instagram @lakefieldjrc

The organization is inviting community members to join its game-day team and help support operations throughout the year.

A variety of volunteer opportunities are available, including game-day operations, ticket sales, 50/50 sales, music and announcements support, fan engagement and general event assistance.

The Chiefs say volunteers play an important role in creating a positive experience for players, fans and sponsors while helping ensure game days run smoothly.

The call is open to hockey fans, community-minded residents and anyone interested in getting involved with local junior hockey.

Organizers say volunteering is a great way to support the team while becoming part of the game-day atmosphere that helps make Chiefs hockey a community event.

Anyone interested in learning more or signing up is encouraged to contact the team through Nick O'Brien at 705-716-3103 or niobrien10@gmail.com.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Support Builds for Injured Teen After Fatal Crash Near Bobcaygeon

By Scott Arnold

A GoFundMe campaign is helping support 16-year-old Ryan Musson as he recovers from life-threatening injuries following a collision that claimed the life of his girlfriend, Briannah "Bri" Sabovitch.

ryan and bri (photo via gofundme campaign)

The fundraiser has been launched in the wake of a devastating crash that happened shortly before 8:30 pm on May 30 at the intersection of County Road 49 and Burys Green Road near Bobcaygeon.

Bri, a 16-year-old from Bobcaygeon, was driving the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Ryan, who was the lone passenger, suffered life-threeatening injuries and was first taken to hospital before being airlifted to Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto.

As Ryan continues his recovery, family, friends and community members are coming together through a GoFundMe campaign to help support him and his family during what is expected to be a long and difficult journey.

The fundraiser comes as many across the area continue to mourn the loss of Bri, a Grade 11 student at Fenelon Falls Secondary School who touched countless lives during her 16 years.

In her obituary, Bri is remembered as the beloved daughter of Crystal Bryant and Ryan McIlmoyle, and Scott Sabovitch (Brandy Watson). She was a cherished sister to Lauryn, Meegan, Hailey and Talen, and a granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend who will be deeply missed by many.

Her family described her as someone whose kindness, laughter and caring spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

Among those feeling that loss most deeply is Ryan, whom Bri's obituary describes as her "dearly loved boyfriend and constant companion."

While the fundraiser is focused on helping Ryan recover from the serious injuries he sustained in the crash, it has also become a place where people are sharing messages of support, remembering Bri and offering comfort to both families as they navigate an unimaginable time.

Those wishing to support Ryan can do so through the GoFundMe campaign. Bri's family has also asked that memorial donations be made to SickKids Hospital in her memory.

A celebration of Bri's life will be held at a later date.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Peterborough Theatre Guild Holding Auditions for Bluebirds

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Theatre Guild is looking for performers to help bring a powerful First World War story to the stage this fall.

The peterborough theatre guild will be holding auditions later this month for their production of bluebirds

Auditions are being held later this month for Bluebirds, a play by Vern Thiessen that follows three Canadian nurses serving in France during the final year of the First World War.

Set in Étaples in 1918, the production explores the lives of nurses Maggie, Christy and Bab as they care for wounded soldiers while navigating friendship, love, loss and the realities of war.

Directed by Bea Quarrie, the show is scheduled to run at the Peterborough Theatre Guild from Oct. 30 through Nov. 14, with a mix of evening and matinee performances.

Auditions will take place June 20, 21 and 22 at the Peterborough Theatre Guild's Gwen Brown Studio on Rogers Street. Organizers say performers do not need to prepare material in advance, although those who wish to may bring a song or monologue. Auditionees will be required to sing, as the production is seeking performers who can sing in harmony.

The guild is casting three roles, Maggie, Christy and Bab, and is encouraging people of all backgrounds to audition as part of its commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Those interested in taking part are asked to reserve an audition time in advance. Organizers recommend arriving 15 minutes early to complete audition forms.

For local theatre enthusiasts looking for their next opportunity on stage, auditions offer a chance to be part of a production that shines a light on the experiences of women whose stories are often overlooked in history.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Peterborough Man and Woman Arrested On Multiple Charges After Found Unwanted In a Backyard

Two people, after being found unwanted in a backyard, are facing charges, including failure to comply, drug possession and being wanted on a warrant on Tuesday evening.

Photo courtesy of hte PeterborougH Police Service.

At roughly 7:30 p.m., officers were called to a residence in the area of Weller Street and Wallis Drive regarding two unwanted people. Officers located a man and a woman in the backyard. During a search after arrest, officers seized 1.2 grams of Fentanyl and .6 grams of cocaine. 

A 31-year-old Peterborough woman wanted on a warrant for an allegation of breach of a Condition Sentence Order was taken into custody on the strength of the warrant.

A 39-year-old Peterborough man was arrested and charged with:

• Failure to comply with release order - other than to attend court

• Possession of a Schedule I Substance- Other Drugs - Fentanyl

• Possession of a Schedule I Substance- Other Drugs - Crack Cocaine

The accused is currently bound by a release order with the following conditions: to reside in a different community and to remain in the residence at all times.

Both accused are being held in custody and appeared in court on Wednesday.

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Peterborough Jr. Petes Make $2,000 Donation to the PRHC Foundation to Enhance Cancer Care and Treatment

The Peterborough Minor Hockey Council Jr. “AAA” Petes have donated $2,000 to the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC) Foundation in honour of minor Petes and OHL Petes alumnus Len Powers, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

The donation is in association with the Peterborough Petes and recognizes Powers’ ongoing support of the Foundation.

The funds help the Foundation’s efforts to enhance cancer treatment and care for patients and families throughout the community.

According to the Petes, this donation reflects the shared values of community leadership, generosity, and service that continue to connect past and present members of the Petes family.

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City of Peterborough Welcomes New Director, Asset Management and Capital Planning

City of Peterborough has selected Ian Boland as the new Director, Asset Management and Capital Planning.

LinkedIn Photo.

Bloand has more than 15 years of municipal infrastructure and engineering experience to his new role, with expertise in asset management, capital planning, water resource systems, transportation planning and climate resilience.  

Ian has also served as Acting Director, Asset Management and Capital Planning, and Manager, Water Resource Systems , with the City of Peterborough. 

“Ian brings a tremendous depth of knowledge, leadership and experience to this role, along with a strong commitment to collaboration and long-term planning,” said Blair Nelson, Commissioner of Infrastructure, Planning and Growth Management with the City. “Having already served the organization in several key leadership positions, Ian has demonstrated a clear understanding of the infrastructure needs and priorities of our community. I’m excited to welcome him into this role and look forward to working together as we continue advancing important initiatives that support sustainable growth, climate resilience and reliable service delivery for residents.” 

A Crestwood Secondary School graduate, Ian holds a Civil Engineering Technology Advanced Diploma from St. Lawrence College and is a Certified Engineering Technologist through the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists.  

Throughout his career, he has led a wide range of infrastructure and planning initiatives while fostering strong working relationships with City departments, Council, Indigenous communities, regulatory agencies, consultants and community stakeholders. 

“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to continue serving the City of Peterborough in this role. I’m passionate about building a strong, integrated, and forward-thinking approach to infrastructure planning that supports long-term financial sustainability, climate resilience, and high-quality service delivery for our community,” Ian said. “I also recognize the incredible knowledge and dedication of the staff within the division, and I look forward to continuing to support and empower our teams as we modernize infrastructure planning, strengthen collaboration across the organization, and help position the City for long-term success.” 

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Capable Con's Fifth Anniversary Celebrates Accessibility This Saturday at Quaker Foods City Square

The Council for Persons with Disabilities (CPD) is celebrating the fifth anniversary of Capable Con to build understanding around accessibility and create opportunities for community connection in Peterborough this Saturday at Quaker Foods City Square.

Photo courtesy of CPD.

Held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the event is held during the final weekend of National Accessibility Awareness Week. The day brings together community members, families, advocates, and local organizations to focus on accessibility, inclusion and awareness.

The free community event will feature interactive activities, accessibility experiences, adaptive recreation demonstrations, local exhibitors, live performances, family activities, community resources and opportunities to connect with organizations from across the region.

Visitors can explore adaptive sports and recreation, accessible technology, sensory-friendly activities and presentations led by people with lived experience.

“Over the past five years, Capable Con has become an important community event that brings people together to learn more about accessibility, inclusion and the experiences of people with disabilities,” said Cody McIntyre, Chair of the Council for Persons with Disabilities. “Hosting the event during National Accessibility Awareness Week makes this milestone even more meaningful. We look forward to welcoming the community back for another year of learning, connection and celebration.”

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Melissa Payne’s Powerful Pride Message Strikes a Chord Across Social Media

By Scott Arnold

A personal post from the Peterborough-area musician about identity, faith and acceptance is resonating with thousands of people online.

powerful message from local musician melissa payne getting a lot of attention on social media
(photo via facebook @melissa.a.payne

What started as a heartfelt reflection on Pride Month has turned into one of the most talked-about local social media posts of the week.

Local musician Melissa Payne shared a deeply personal message on Facebook Tuesday, opening up about her experience growing up while struggling to understand her sexuality and the impact that negative attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people had on her mental health.

In the post, Payne wrote about hiding who she was as a young person, feeling different from her peers and spending years trying to suppress a part of herself. She recalled being asked if she was gay while in Grade 7 and the fear and uncertainty that followed.

Payne also spoke about her faith, saying she prayed often about her feelings and later about her relationship with her partner, Katie. Rather than feeling rejected, she wrote that she found peace and acceptance.

While the post touches on Pride, Payne said the message is really about the young people who may be reading conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ issues online.

"The reason Pride matters to me has very little to do with rainbows," she wrote. "What matters to me is the kid sitting in a classroom feeling the way I felt."

She went on to describe how comments describing LGBTQ+ people as "disgusting, sinful, mentally ill, confused, or wrong" can affect young people who are still trying to understand themselves.

Payne revealed that depression and suicidal thoughts she experienced growing up were not caused by being gay, but by believing there was something wrong with her because of it.

The post has drawn a significant response since being published, collecting more than 1,800 reactions, 266 comments and 178 shares in less than 24 hours. The overwhelming majority of comments have been supportive, with many people thanking Payne for sharing her story and for speaking openly about experiences that others may still be struggling with themselves.

The message concludes with a simple hope that regardless of differing opinions, people can remember there are real children and teenagers reading these conversations.

"Kids who are scared. Kids who are praying. Kids who deserve to know they are loved exactly as they are."

For many readers, that message appears to be the reason the post continues to spread.

Click on the photo below to read her full message.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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