City of Peterborough Begins Work on Municipal Snow Storage Facility Improvements

The Municipal Snow Storage Facility on Kennedy Road is receiving improvements to enhance stormwater management, support environmental sustainability and improve long-term site operations. 

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Construction is expected to take place between June and October with the remaining work to complete the project anticipated in 2027. 

The project will improve the collection, management, and treatment of runoff from snow storage operations. New stormwater management infrastructure will help improve water quality and protect the Otonabee River and surrounding ecosystems. 

The work includes: 

• Preparing, clearing, reshaping and grading the site 

• Removing old culverts, invasive species, garbage and fencing 

• Installing new stormwater infrastructure 

• Building a stormwater management facility including creating a bioswale to help manage and filter runoff 

• Constructing an engineered wetland 

• Paving areas of the site and installing new lighting 

• Planting trees and shrubs as part of reforestation efforts 

In addition to supporting the City's snow storage operations, the project will introduce new stormwater management features designed to improve water quality before runoff enters the natural environment. 

The project is part of the City's ongoing investment in infrastructure that supports a growing community while helping to protect the natural environment. 

An Environmental assessment was completed in 2023 for this project along with community consultation. The project has received Environmental Compliance Approval from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. 

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Five Counties Celebrates Golden Anniversary with Record-Breaking Year of Support for Kids and Families

By Scott Arnold

As it wraps up its 50th anniversary celebrations, Five Counties Children's Centre is marking another milestone year, serving more children and families than ever before while continuing to tackle the growing demand for services across the region.

Paralympic gold medallist Jon Thurston was keynote speaker at Five Counties’ annual meeting, sharing how a life-altering injury at 24 led him to gold in wheelchair curling at the 2026 Paralympics (photo courtesy of five counties)

It was a record-setting year for the local children's treatment centre, which supports children and youth with physical, developmental and communication needs in Peterborough, Northumberland, Haliburton and the City of Kawartha Lakes.

According to its newly released annual report, Five Counties served 6,574 children and youth during the 2025-26 fiscal year, the highest number in the organization's history. Staff also delivered a record 56,687 client visits, nearly 1,300 more than the previous year.

The Centre supported 3,928 students through school-based rehabilitation services and spent more than 4,199 hours helping families, schools and child-care providers build skills and better support children in their care.

Five Counties CEO Scott Pepin said the numbers represent much more than statistics.

Behind every visit and referral, he said, is a relationship between staff, children and families, with the Centre's goal remaining the same: helping kids reach their full potential and supporting the people around them.

Despite the record year, wait times remain a challenge. As of March 31, there were 2,204 children waiting for services across the region. However, the Centre largely held its wait list steady despite an 11.8 per cent increase in referrals and serving 366 more clients than the previous year.

Fundraising continues to play a key role in reducing wait times, with nearly $750,000 raised last year to help hire additional clinicians and expand services.

The past year also saw the launch of the Centre's new Abilities in Action program for children with autism and their families who qualify through the Ontario Autism Program. Five Counties also successfully recruited a new pediatrician and additional physicians to help improve autism screening and support.

Beyond the numbers, 2025-26 was also filled with milestones.

The Centre officially opened an accessible backyard space in Cobourg last June, celebrated its 50th anniversary with events and storytelling throughout the year and received recognition from chambers of commerce in Peterborough, Lindsay and Cobourg for its work supporting local families.

The annual meeting also celebrated the people and organizations helping make that work possible.

The White family, including Suzette, Glen and Adam White, received the 2026 Dave Adams Legacy Award for their decades of involvement and support of Five Counties. Adam first came to the Centre as an infant after being diagnosed with cerebral palsy, and the family's connection has since grown into years of volunteerism and advocacy.

Long-serving board member and current vice-chair Kristy Hook was also honoured as she steps down after nine years on the Board of Directors.

Five Counties also presented its 2026 High-Five Community Awards, recognizing community partners and individuals helping make inclusion possible for children and families across the region.

To cap off the Centre's golden anniversary year, local Paralympian and wheelchair curling gold medallist Jon Thurston delivered the keynote address, sharing his journey from growing up in Dunsford to standing atop the podium at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games.

For Five Counties, it was a fitting end to a golden year defined by growth, resilience and a continued commitment to helping children and families thrive.

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

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Know Someone Making a Difference? Nominate Them for a Business Excellence Award

By Scott Arnold

The search is on for the businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations helping shape Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

nominations are now open for 2026 business excellence awards (photo courtesy of Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce)

The Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce has officially opened nominations for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, an annual celebration recognizing businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation and outstanding contributions to the local economy.

Community members have until Friday, July 17 to nominate deserving businesses operating within the City or County of Peterborough.

The awards program has long been dedicated to celebrating responsible business leadership and the people and organizations that help drive prosperity across the region.

Nominations are open in several categories, and community members are encouraged to review the award descriptions and choose the category that best reflects a business's achievements and impact.

While businesses cannot nominate themselves, supporters are encouraged to submit nominations on their behalf. Nominees also do not need to be members of the Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce to be eligible.

Following the nomination period, businesses selected as nominees will be asked to provide detailed information about their operations and accomplishments. Winners will then be chosen by an independent panel of judges.

Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Brenda Whitehead said the awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on the incredible businesses and people who keep the region moving forward and celebrate the innovation, passion and hard work that make Peterborough and the Kawarthas a great place to do business.

Board Chair Susan Dunkley said the awards recognize the innovation, leadership, resilience and community impact of local entrepreneurs and organizations, while also highlighting those whose work strengthens the local economy and inspires future success.

Nominations for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards opened Monday and can be submitted online until July 17.

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

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CMHA HKPR's Fourth Annual Change the Cycle Breaks Fundraising Record of Over $31,000

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge’s (CMHA HKPR) fourth annual Change the Cycle fundraiser broke its record, raising $31,620.64 at Nicholls Oval on Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Emma Lustic and CMHA HKPR.

There were a record 92 registered riders at the event, helping exceed the fundraising goal of $25,000.

Proceeds from the event will support unfunded and non‑annualized mental health programs at CMHA HKPR, helping fill critical gaps so individuals and families can access the services they need.

“We’re incredibly proud of what this event has become and so grateful for the energy and generosity of everyone involved,” said Jack Veitch, CMHA HKPR manager of community engagement and education. “Seeing nearly 100 riders come together, alongside our sponsors, volunteers, and community supporters, is a powerful reminder of how much people care about mental health in our region.”

New this year was a theme song created by Lindsay-based grunge band, ‘Soup,’ to showcase their hit, ‘Let’s Go For a Ride.’ The band was formed by Lindsay resident Simon Ward, the founder of Strumbellas.

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Community Care Peterborough’s Apsley Office Relocates to Burleigh Street On July 27

To increase accessibility, Community Care Peterborough’s (CCP) Apsley location is moving to 91 Burleigh St. as of July 27.

Photo courtresy of Community Care Peterborough.

“Our team of volunteers and I are excited to move into this bright, beautiful, and renovated house, just down the street from our previous location. We look forward to a very welcoming and accessible space for our clients, volunteers, and the community,” said Katie Bryck, Apsley Community Development Coordinator.

The moving dates are July 23 and 24. The service office will remain operational (via phone only) during these moving dates. The office phone number remains the same (705-656-4589).

The thrift store will be closed to the public from July 20 to 24, and plans to reopen on July 27 at the new location.

CCP is planning a special grand opening celebration for August.

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Learning and Voyageur Tours Highlight This Year’s Canada Day Celebration

By Scott Arnold

A voyageur canoe experience, Indigenous-led learning and free admission to the Canadian Canoe Museum are among the highlights of Lessons From the Land, returning to Peterborough on Canada Day.

the new canadians centre has a full day of canadian day activities planned in peterborough (photo courtesy of NCC via the canadian canoe museum)

The New Canadians Centre is once again inviting the community to spend July 1 learning, reflecting and connecting through Indigenous culture, knowledge and experiences at Lessons From the Land.

Running from 9:30 am to 1 pm at the Canadian Canoe Museum, the annual gathering offers a mix of cultural teachings, hands-on activities, family-friendly programming and opportunities to connect with both the land and water.

The event grew out of the New Canadians Centre's reflection on Truth and Reconciliation and its role in helping newcomers settle on lands that have long been stewarded by Indigenous Peoples. Rather than holding a traditional Canada Day celebration, the organization now uses July 1 as an opportunity for learning, reflection and relationship-building.

One of the biggest draws this year is the opportunity to get out on Little Lake aboard a voyageur canoe. Guided by staff from the Canadian Canoe Museum, participants can paddle together in a traditional-style canoe while learning about Canada's paddling heritage. Space is limited and advance registration is required.

The experience doesn't end when the event wraps up. Participants can receive a stamp from the information booth for free admission to the Canadian Canoe Museum beginning at 1 pm, giving attendees the chance to explore the museum's exhibits and collections after the morning's activities.

a community drum circle led by janet and linda mccue will open canada day acitivities in peterborough (photo courtesy of the new canadian centre)

Schedule of Events

9:30 am – Opening Ceremony and Community Drum Circle

The day begins with a community drum circle led by Curve Lake's Janet McCue and Linda McCue.

A longtime advocate and community leader, Janet McCue has spent decades supporting Indigenous education, social justice initiatives and community outreach throughout Peterborough and the surrounding area.

10:30 am to 12 pm – Choose One Activity

Participants can select from four concurrent activities.

Voyageur Canoe Tour

Take to the water on Little Lake with the Canadian Canoe Museum team. No paddling experience is required.

Children must be accompanied by a caregiver, participants must weigh at least 30 pounds, and all paddlers will be provided with a personal flotation device. Registration is required and participation is limited to 35 people.

River Race

Led by the TRACKS Youth Program, this interactive activity explores the journeys of salmon, eels and sturgeon through Lake Ontario tributaries. Participants will learn about local waterways, ecological challenges and the role of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in understanding and caring for the environment.

Lessons of the Land: From Traditional Medicines to Sustainable Futures

Robyn Ivory of Indigenously Infused will share teachings about traditional medicines, sustainable harvesting and reciprocity with the land, while exploring how Indigenous stewardship practices continue to shape communities today.

Quill Workshop

Curve Lake artist Donna Jacobs will lead participants in creating an orange shirt pin using porcupine quills she has harvested and prepared herself.

Jacobs began beading as part of her healing and sobriety journey and now creates beadwork, quillwork and paintings using natural materials. A limited number of free kits will be available, while additional kits can be purchased. Registration is required.

12 pm to 12:30 pm – Community Lunch

A lunch prepared by Thomas Olszewski of Grandfather's Kitchen will be served.

The meal will feature Three Sisters Soup, made from corn, beans and squash, ingredients that have long been grown together by Indigenous Peoples because each plant supports the others. Bannock will also be served, along with teachings about the significance of strawberries, known in Anishinaabemowin as the "heart berry."

Participants are asked to bring their own dish pack, including a bowl, plate, spoon and fork.

12:45 pm – Closing Gathering

Janet and Linda McCue will close the event with a final gathering before participants head off to enjoy the museum.

1 pm – Free Admission to the Canadian Canoe Museum

Anyone attending Lessons From the Land can receive a stamp from the information booth for complimentary admission to the museum.

What to Bring

Attendees are encouraged to bring:

• A reusable water bottle

• A bowl, plate, spoon and fork

• Snacks

• A lawn chair or blanket

Most activities will take place outdoors, and all children should be accompanied by a caregiver.

Lessons From the Land is free to attend and offers an opportunity to spend Canada Day learning from Indigenous voices, participating in hands-on experiences and exploring one of Peterborough's most celebrated attractions.

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

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Ennismore Couple Win $100,000 Off Scratch Ticket

Linda and Michael F. of Ennismore hit the top prize of $100,000 with the Wild Cash Multiplier Scratch ticket.

Photo courtesy of OLG.

The married couple said they enjoy playing a variety of scratch games, LOTTO MAX and LOTTO 6/49. 

After purchasing their tickets, Michael said he played them in his car in the store parking lot. While scratching the first one, he uncovered a big win and ran back into the store to scan it.

“I stared at the screen in total disbelief,” he said “It was all a blur.” 

Michael immediately went home to share the news with his wife.

“When I bolted through the door, Linda asked, ‘What happened?’ I told her we won and we did a happy dance around the kitchen,'“ he exclaimed. 

The couple said they plan to put their winnings toward retirement savings, a fancy dinner with a few friends and a small getaway with their dog.

“I’m also going to buy Michael a guitar. He doesn’t know how to play but he’s looking forward to making some beautiful noise,” said Linda.

The winning ticket was purchased at Causeway Variety on Robinson Road in Ennismore.

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Check Out The Business Beat This Week Featuring Business Excellence Awards, Youth Unlimited Peterborough and Senior Helpers of Peterborough

PTBOCanada is delighted to be running the Business Beat columns each week here, spotlighting new businesses and startups in Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here is this week’s edition…

Do you know a business that goes above and beyond?

Now is your chance to recognize the outstanding businesses that help make Peterborough and the Kawarthas really shine. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Peterborough + Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards! The nomination process is quick and easy. Finalists will receive valuable recognition through a multi-media promotional campaign, with award recipients announced live at the annual Business Excellence Awards celebration. Help us celebrate business excellence in our community by submitting your nomination today! More information can be found at pkchamber.ca

Youth Unlimited Peterborough recently celebrated the grand opening of its new Sports Court at The Bridge Youth Centre with a community celebration on June 20.

The event welcomed community members for an afternoon of games, music, food, and activities as the organization officially unveiled this exciting new space for local youth. The new sports court represents another step in Youth Unlimited Peterborough's ongoing commitment to creating safe, welcoming spaces where young people can connect, grow, and thrive.

On Wednesday, June 24, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. Senior Helpers of Peterborough invites the community to celebrate its official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony!

Join the team as they mark this exciting milestone and learn more about the personalized in-home care services they provide to seniors and their families throughout Peterborough. Guests will also have the opportunity to tour the organization's innovative Centre of Excellence, an immersive training space designed to support interactive education for caregivers, family caregivers, and industry professionals. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP to lheath@seniorhelpers.ca.

If you want to have your business featured on the Business Beat or know of a business doing something new and interested, shoot an email to brenda@pkchamber.ca.

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Peterborough Paramedics Joining Sirens for Life Blood Donation Challenge

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough County-City Paramedics are once again rolling up their sleeves this summer as part of a nationwide effort to help save lives through blood and plasma donations.

peterborough county-city paramedics are joining a nationwide effort with the blood donation challenge (photo via instagram @ptboparamedics)

The service is taking part in the annual Sirens for Life campaign, a friendly competition organized by Canadian Blood Services that sees first responders from across Canada compete to make the biggest impact through donations.

Peterborough County-City Paramedics will go head-to-head with other emergency services from across the region while encouraging residents to join the cause.

The campaign aims to boost blood and plasma donations during the summer months and help ensure lifesaving products remain available for patients who need them.

Paramedics say every donation can make a difference and are encouraging eligible community members to consider booking an appointment and becoming part of the effort.

The Sirens for Life campaign has become an annual tradition among first responders, combining a bit of friendly competition with an opportunity to support healthcare systems and patients across the country.

Residents interested in participating can book an appointment through Canadian Blood Services and join local paramedics in helping meet the ongoing demand for blood and plasma donations.

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

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Beavermead Park Boat Launch Temporarily Closed

The Beavermead boat launch is temporarily closed as the City of Peterborough prepares for planned improvements.  

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The Beavermead boat launch is primarily used by canoers, kayakers, and paddleboarders. Upgrades to this site include the removal of existing pavers, regrading and the installation of gravel.  

The need for improvements was identified through the Boat Launch Strategy, which was part of the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study.  

The launch will remain closed until construction is complete, with an expected opening in spring 2027.  

The boat launch at Rogers Cove, 160 Mark St., remains open to provide residents with access to Little Lake.

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