Winter Season Not Slowing Down Griffin's Greenhouses; Business to Continue Community Outreach

Winter may slow down other green places but Lakefield’s Griffin’s Greenhouses continues to help the community during the colder seasons.

Photo courtesy of Griffin’s Greenhouses.

The Greenhouse offers regular seasonal workshops. These can include building wreaths, mini-sleighs and floral arrangements for the holidays.

“One of our goals is to educate the knowledge and options that you can still garden in the winter,” said Vikki of Griffin’s Greenhouses.

She notes that November is the second-busiest month of the year. The Greenhouse uses several outlets to help inform the community about their options regarding growing their green thumbs.

“We’re providing lots of knowledge. We put out videos on Youtube done by a local videographer,” she explained. “Knowledge is our number one takeaway to share what we know. We always keep the door open and follow back to people who always have questions. We’re really confident and generous with our time in answering questions.”

The business has been operating for roughly 48 years. Vikki and her brother Kyle purchased the business from their parents several years ago. After going to college and university and working in other career paths, the siblings eventually returned to the family business they grew up helping their parents run.

The business has received help from the family, spanning several generations. Vikki says she’s proud to call Griffin’s a ‘true family business.’

“People have seen our children watch our children grow, and our staff have seen them too,” she explained. “Some of our staff have been with us for over 20 years. There’s that comfort and familiarity that people value in our business.”

A week before Christmas, Griffin’s Greenhouse will run its ‘Dutch Auction’ to clear all inventory before its new season in March. It’s an opportunity for the business to start fresh with brand-new products for its customers.

“We’re not into recycling for next season,” said Vikki. “We want fresh and new.”

As a reflection of their Dutch heritage, the auction is a way flowers are sold in the Netherlands, a fun way of clearing out all merchandise and starting again with a clean slate.

“We feel we are vibrant and active in our community,“ explained Nikki. “Giving and sharing back with the community with our time is something that we’re proud of.”

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United Way Reaches 30 Per Cent of Fundraising Goal; City Holds Chili Cook-Off & Bake Sale Fundraiser

Twelve chilis and baked goods made by City of Peterborough staff helped raise money for United Way Peterborough & District as the latter has announced that they raised 30 per cent ($450,000) of their $1.5 million fundraising goal at the McDonnel Street Activity Centre on Wednesday.

Mayor Jeff Leal was a judge to try our 12 different chilis made by City of Peterborough staff. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The United Way set its $1.5 million goal on Sept. 11 which runs until March 31.

The announcement occurred during the City of Peterborough's workplace campaign launch event.

“United Way Peterborough & District and the City of Peterborough have had a longstanding partnership which has included running one of the most successful workplace campaigns for a number of years,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Workplace campaigns were threatened by the pandemic, making it difficult to build community and engage employees in the campaign. Today, the City of Peterborough hosting their annual chili cook-off once again is a sign that we are turning over a new page in our community.”

The ‘30%’ signs were made from pictures of chili bowls. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Russell continued emphasizing the importance of hitting the campaign goal based on the community's needs.

“There is a rising need for support services in our community and a dwindling number of other funding sources available to sustain these services,” said Russell. “Participating in the United Way campaign means that you are building community by contributing to the largest non-government funder of social services.”

He continued to speak about the energy he has felt on the campaign trail and the power of the new donation match challenge.

“It has never been as easy as it is today to extend the reach of your gift through the Double Your Difference initiative,” said Russell. “We're finding that the energy of this year's campaign is contagious, with workplaces facilitating more creative employee giving opportunities than we have seen in recent years.”

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Hometown PTBO: Lt. Col. Lee-Anne Quinn and Timelining Her Military and Community Service

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Canadian Armed Forces veteran Lt. Col. Lee-Anne Quinn about why she joined the military, her local community efforts and Remembrance Day's significance.

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United Way and PATH Extend Coats for Community Initiative

United Way Peterborough & District and Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes (PATH) shared an update on the Coats for Community initiative from the PATH location at 385 Lansdowne Street East.

Photo courtesy of United Way Peterborough & District.

Both organizations partnered to expand the reach for the Coats for Community winter clothing program in early fall.

From Oct. 23rd to Oct. 26, the initiative accepted over 600 new and gently used winter coats. The community can continue to donate winter gear and other essential items every Wednesday and Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at PATH on Lansdowne.

“The PATH Community Clothing Hub has been operating for a year and we have been able to give out coats to many people over this time,” said Bev Assinck, PATH volunteer and Board member. “With the addition of Coats for Community, we will be able to support more than 1,000 people to be warmer and safer this winter. This partnership with United Way provides a great boost to the Peterborough community to look after everyone who needs to

“We’ve changed our approach to meet people where they are at and make winter gear available throughout the entire winter,” said said Betsy MacDonald, United Way Director of Community Impact. "

In previous years, Coats for Community held a 1-day event where people had to line up to receive a coat. Instead, people can now access multiple different locations throughout the winter when they find themselves in need of a coat.

“Each year we see an increased number of community members in need to coats, and we expect this year to be no different,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “We are so grateful to announce that Cogeco has stepped up to help us keep up with this growing demand.” Cogeco generously sponsored this year’s Coats for Community initiative, contributing $2,500 that will go towards buying coats in all sizes.

“We are proud to support United Way’s Coats for Community program, which provides warm winter attire to those in need, ensuring that everyone in our community can stay warm during the colder months,” said David Feeley, Cogeco Manager of Programming and Community Relations. “By coming together to support this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to compassion and inclusion, making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours.”

The community can bring their new and/or gently used winter coats, snowpants, hats and mittens to PATH at 385 Lansdowne Street East. Volunteers will accept donations on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily.

Other items accepted include pants, shirts, hoodies/sweaters, blankets, towels, socks, underwear, boots, long underwear, mittens, toques, raincoats, hand warmers, sleeping bags, solar blankets, reusable shopping bags and $5 Tim Hortons gift cards.

The following are pick-uplocations:

Good Neighbours

164 Sherbrooke St.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Please note that ID and registration is required

• Adult and child coats available

Trent Valley Literacy Association

Brookdale Plaza (825 Chemong Rd.)

Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Adult coats only

TRACKS Youth Program Environmental Science Centre at Trent University

(1600 West Bank Drive) Ground Floor – Office B106

Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Limited quantities of adult and child coats

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Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society’s Board of Directors Tender Resignation

The Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society’s entire Board of Directors resigned on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society.

According to a press release, the resignations are effective Oct. 23rd. They follow the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services’ decision to install a supervisor.

The following is the full statement:

It is with profound sadness that all Members of the Board of Directors for the Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society have tendered their resignation, effective October 23, 2024.

We were notified on October 22nd that the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services intended to install a Supervisor on October 23rd, as provided for in legislation (Child, Youth and Family Services Act). Board Members can no longer meet their fiduciary duty when this happens.

The Board worked diligently to avert this from happening; however, the difficulties we experienced are echoed across the sector and were not repairable within the structures and guidelines we must work within.

Although there will be difficult days ahead, we know that the staff and leadership team at Kawartha-Haliburton Children’s Aid Society will continue to provide excellent care and service to the children, youth and families in our communities.

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Seven Community Garden Boxes Rebuilt For Prince Of Wales Public School Through Partnership With BWXT

To help students continue their hands-on learning experience of gardening and sustainability, seven new community garden boxes have been installed by BWXT volunteers for Prince of Wales Public School through a community initiative project on Wednesday morning.

All photos by David Tuan Bui.

BWXT purchased the materials and assembled the boxes, They were brought over by hand to be installed by BWXT volunteers.

“We've been looking to revitalize our gardens through the parent council school community and that was a perfect start,” said Brad Conlin, Price of Wales vice-principal. “The original boxes were constructed by GE Peterborough so it was a great connection to bring that back together as our new opportunity.”

GE Peterborough made the original boxes and have been in place since 2014. They typically hold flowers and plants and plan to add vegetables soon. According to Conlin, the gardens allow the students to learn about gardening, sustainability, and teamwork as they are responsible for their maintenance.

“We have a garden club within the school so they work to learn about new plant species and learn how to have sustainable gardening,” explained Conlin. “We do have classes come out, often in the spring, to learn about how to start planting right from seed and gives them the opportunity to do that right on site and see the progress that's made here.”

The gardens also help revitalize the school so students can be educated in a pleasant atmosphere and take pride in their institution, said Conlin.

“What we like about it too is that it's showcasing the beauty of our awesome school and having pride in it in making it so nice out here,” he explained. “They like to have that experience to be out here doing that.”

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Peterborough Recognizes October As Canadian Islamic History Month

The City of Peterborough has officially recognized October as Canadian Islamic History Month and Islamic Heritage Month which is celebrated throughout the province and country.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Mayor Jeff Leal has issued the following statement:

“Islamic History Month is a chance for Peterborough residents to learn more about the rich culture, heritage and many contributions Canadian Muslims have made to our community and our country.

From arts and culture to education, business, and science, members of the Muslim community have enriched every sector of Canadian society. Here in Peterborough, we are fortunate to witness first-hand the positive impact of Canadians Muslims, whether through the businesses that strengthen our economy, the academic and professional achievements that enhance our schools, or the vibrant cultural contributions that promote diversity and inclusion in our city.

Islamic History Month gives us the opportunity to appreciate the legacy of Canadian Muslims and reaffirm our commitment to building a community where everyone feels valued and respected.

On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Muslim community for their continued contributions and leadership. Let us celebrate the diversity that makes our city and our country stronger.

Happy Islamic History Month!”

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Peterborough Recognizes October As Latin American Heritage Month

The City of Peterborough officially recognizes October as Latin American Heritage Month, announced on Wednesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Mayor Jeff Leal has issued the following statement:

“I am honoured to recognize Latin American Heritage Month in the City of Peterborough. This is an opportunity to reflect on the rich history, culture and contributions the Latin American community has made here in Peterborough and across Canada.

Latin Americans have enriched our city with a tapestry of vibrant traditions, arts, music and cuisine. I encourage everyone to learn more about Latin American history and support the local events and businesses showcasing Latin American culture throughout the month.”

According to the Government of Canada, approximately 500,000 Canadians have a Latin American background, with roots in more than 22 countries. The Government of Canada officially recognized Latin American Heritage Month in 2018.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough Seeking Nominations For Paul Harris Fellowship

The Rotary Club of Peterborough is seeking nominations for its prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Recognition in honour of the founder of Rotary International in 1905.

Tom Jenkins (third from left) was a recipient last year for his work with Peterborough Bigs for over 20 years. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

According to Rotary, the Fellowship recognizes local individuals for their leadership and service contributions within our community, the surrounding area and the world at large. It is considered the highest honour Rotarians can give.

Nominations in the following categories can be completed online with the deadline on Friday.

Categories include:

• Community Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant leadership contribution to the advancement and betterment of the Peterborough Community. 

• International Service: To recognize an individual who makes a significant contribution toward to betterment of the communities in other parts of the world, and/or leadership toward work peace and understanding. 

• Vocational Service: To recognize an individual who uses their vocational skills consistent wit Rotary ideals toward community and/or international matters.

• Youth Services: To recognize an individual who makes significant contributions toward to youth (programs, services and/or related matters).

• Environmental Service: To recognize an individual who supports activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of our environment.

• Club Service: To recognize a Peterborough Rotary Club member for their outstanding service and dedication. 

The recipients will be celebrated at the Club’s Paul Harris Fellow Recognition Dinner on Nov.18, the location of which will be determined. 

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Local Restaurant Owner Continues Tradition of Giving Free Meals To Anyone In Need For Thanksgiving Sunday

The Original Spaghetti House Pizzeria owner Ilir Sino is continuing his giving spirit tradition as he plans to give our free hot meals for Thanksgiving Sunday to anyone in need.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ILIR SINO.

He typically offers free hot meals during Easter and Christmas but has included Thanksgiving for this year.

Meals will be distributed from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Spaghetti House, 512 George St. S. They can be picked up or delivered.

Sino announced on his Facebook that on Friday evening, he is inviting Peterborough and the surrounding area to come grab a meal. According to a Facebook comment on his original post, people can also request meals for others.

Sino has a history of philanthropy. In November 2022, he donated $1,500 to Alternatives Community Program Services Peterborough. He has also donated to local sports teams and other charities.

He opened his production facility, Sino’s Fine Foods, located at 597 Monaghan Rd. in the summer of 2022. The business produces his sauces, dressings, soups, oven-ready dinners and more.

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