Senior Skating Returns to Selwyn Township

Senior skating will take place in Lakefield and Ennismore starting next week.

File photo

Selwyn Township has announced the return of senior skating every Monday from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the Ennismore Community Centre and every Tuesday and Friday from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at the Lakefield-Smith Community Centre.

The skate is open to anyone aged 55+.

Selwyn Township also announced this year’s sponsors for the events.

The Regency of Lakefield will sponsor the Lakefield skates, covering the admission fees for the season, while Swish Maintenance and Blue Diamond Window Cleaning are teaming up to sponsor skating at the Ennismore rink, which is also free.

Senior skating starts next week and runs until the end of March 2025.

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City of Peterborough Extends Splash Pad Season to Sept. 22

With warm temperatures in the forecast, the City of Peterborough is extending splash pads operations until Sept. 22.

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They were originally scheduled to close for the season last Tuesday.

“We are thrilled to be able to offer our splash pad facilities for an extended season, providing families with more opportunities to cool down and have fun as our summer season winds down,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Gary Baldwin.

The City operates seven splash pads in parks, open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the following locations:

  • King Edward Park at 455 George St. S.

  • Nicholls Oval at 725 Armour Rd.

  • Rogers Cove at 131 Maria St.

  • Kinsmen Park at 1 Kinsmen Way

  • Barnardo Park on Barnardo Avenue north of Sunset Boulevard

  • Turner Park at the corner of Chamberlain and High streets

  • Hamilton Park at 575 Bonaccord St.

  • Water feature at Quaker Foods City Square, 215 Charlotte St.

Splash pads are closed before the fall as temperatures tend to drop at night. The water systems, including the pipes, must be prepared to avoid freezing and damage through the cold weather between fall and spring.

Beaches at Beavermead Park and Rogers Cove are not supervised at this time. The City’s summer lifeguard program ended on Aug. 25. Residents are reminded to use extra caution around the water if visiting the beaches.

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City Splash Pads Now Open For the Season

Peterborough’s six splash pads are open for the season, running from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, announced by the City of Peterborough on Friday.

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City splash pads are at the following locations:

  • King Edward Park, 455 George St. S.

  • Rogers Cove, 131 Maria St.

  • Kinsmen Park, 1 Kinsmen Way (Sherbrooke Street and Clonsilla Avenue)

  • Barnardo Park, Barnardo Avenue, north of Sunset Boulevard

The splash pads at King Edward Park, 455 George St. S. and Kinsmen Park, 1 Kinsmen Way (Sherbrooke Street and Clonsilla Avenue) are undergoing repairs and/or final commissioning inspections and will open as soon as possible according to the City.

“Splash pads offer a fantastic and inclusive way for children and families to enjoy water play, promoting outdoor activity and social interaction in a safe, refreshing and accessible environment,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “We encourage everyone to get outside, get active, and enjoy the season.”

Beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead Park will not be supervised until the City’s lifeguard program starts on July 1. Wading pools in City parks will be opened later in the season when lifeguard supervision is provided.

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City of Peterborough Hosting Free Family Skate Celebration On Sunday

The City of Peterborough is hosting a free Family Skate Celebration at Quaker Foods City Square from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Bundle up and enjoy the best the season has to offer at this free Family Skate,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “Shake off the January blahs in the fresh outdoor air having fun, getting exercise and connecting with our community.”

The celebration will feature music by DJ Lynz and free hot chocolate for attendees. A limited supply of free toques from Call2Recycle – a not-for-profit organization that provides battery recycling programs – will be handed out on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Skate and helmet rental is available at Runner's Life at 174 Charlotte St. Rental rates and hours of operation can be found at Runner's Life.

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Ontario Government Offering Free Access to Provincial Parks For Healthy Parks Healthy People Day On Friday

For Healthy Parks Healthy People Day on Friday, the Ontario Government is allowing free access to use provincial parks announced on Tuesday.

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Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, David Piccini made the announcement on behalf of the provincial government.

“Ontario Parks is once again offering free day-use access to provincial parks to celebrate Healthy Parks Healthy People Day, said Piccini. “This annual celebration is part of a global movement to promote the incredible health benefits of getting outside in nature. Studies show spending time in nature can improve our mental, physical, and social well-being, including lower blood pressure, increased self-esteem and reduced anxiety.”

Ontario Parks is offering the following ways to engage with nature including the following upcoming events:

  • The 30x30 Challenge to encourage people to spend 30 minutes in nature for 30 days during the month of August

  • Take a Hike Day on Aug. 9, a brand-new event this year offering guided hikes at provincial parks around the province.

“As the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, I encourage all Ontarians to take advantage of this opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, immerse themselves in the splendour of nature and experience first-hand the restorative power of our provincial parks,” said Piccini.

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Photos: BBQ and Open House at Canterbury Gardens Retirement Residence

Canterbury Gardens Retirement Residence (1414 Sherbrooke St., Peterborough) hosted a barbecue and Open House event on Saturday.

The afternoon consisted of live music, dancing and singing as attendees toured the residences at Canterbury. A barbecue lunch was served alongside some fresh salads and cold drinks.

Those interested in learning more about Canterbury Gardens can watch the video below:

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Hamilton Park Splash Pad Open For the Season

Kids near Jackson Park can cool off with a new splash pad at Hamilton Park announced by The City of Peterborough on Monday.

Peterborough now operates seven splash bads throughout the City. Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

The now-open splash pad now features a new, small-scale splash pad with multiple sprays. Hamilton Park's other amenities include a playground, a basketball court and a disc golf course.

A community consultation took place in 2021 for City staff to receive input on the features of the splash pad.

“This splash pad is a beautiful addition to Hamilton Park,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “It provides a perfect place for young families to have fun and cool down in the summer. Being outdoors with friends and family is key to everyone’s well-being and a building block to a thriving community.”

Splash pads are typically open from June to September and operate from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day, weather permitting.

Splash pads are located at the following:

  • King Edward Park, 455 George St. S.

  • Nicholls Oval, 725 Armour Rd.

  • Rogers Cove, 131 Maria St.

  • Kinsmen Park, 1 Kinsmen Way

  • Barnardo Park, Barnardo Avenue

  • Turner Park, 673 Chamberlain St.

  • Hamilton Park, 757 Bonaccord St.

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City of Peterborough Celebrating Recreation and Parks Month With Community Events and Activities Throughout June

The City of Peterborough is recognizing Recreation and Parks month- a movement that promotes the benefits of recreation and parks for physical, social and environmental health- with local programs and events available throughout the month of June. 

photo courtesy of the city of peterborough.

Access to parks and recreation helps foster personal health, wellbeing, strong communities and social inclusion.

Throughout the month of June, a wide variety of free activities, events and giveaways will be taking place across the community. There is something for everyone, regardless of age or ability.

The City says this project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.

"The City of Peterborough is well known for our incredible green spaces, the Otonabee River and Little Lake, parks and recreational/sports opportunities,” says Councillor Lesley Parnell, Chair of the City’s Arenas, Parks and Recreation Portfolio. “Please get out and enjoy the many free events and activities to expand your quality of life in our beautiful City.”

Highlight of events:

  • June 1: All abilities Try It Pickleball from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Wellness Centre gym B/C

  • June 5: It’s World Environment Day! Leave the car and walk, bike, or take the bus today

  • June 9: P.A. Day Fun Swim for all ages from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Wellness Centre

  • June 10: Dragon Boat Festival returns to Del Crary Park. This all-day family-friendly event supports Peterborough Regional Health Centre to invest in state-of-the-art technology to serve more cancer patients. Visit the Peterborough Dragon Boat website for more information.

  • June 12: Wellness Centre Client Appreciation Day

  • June 17: Power Yoga in the Park for all ages at Rogers Cove from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

  • June 18: Happy Father’s Day! Celebrate with a Fun Swim for all ages at the Wellness Centre from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

  • June 20: Downtown Youth Space will host a Mini Olympics event in Confederation Square from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. for all ages.

  • June 23: Zumba Dance Party happening downtown at the Quaker Foods City Square from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Bring your dance moves and energy for a fun-filled evening that is open for all ages.

  • June 29: Let’s Bike Event in Partnership with Green Up will take place at Quaker Foods City Square from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

  • July 1: Canada Day celebrations start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 1, with pre-parade activities in Confederation Square, followed by the Canada Day Parade presented by Cogeco, beginning at noon. Join us along George Street from City Hall to Morrow Park.

Ongoing programs and facilities:

  • Visit Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market in Quaker Foods City Square from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday.

  • Check out the Riverview Park and Zoo to visit the animals and have fun on the largest playground in the City.

  • Skate your way into summer by visiting the local Skateboard Park at 560 McDonnel St.

  • Did you know? In partnership with local school boards, Fleming College and Trent University, there are over 80 fields and courts available to the community. Visit your closest park and try out a new sport!

  • Splash pads are open for the season with hours of operation from 9 a.m.to 8 p.m. daily. Visit the website for locations.

  • Public beaches at Beavermead Park, 2011 Ashburnham Dr., and Rogers Cove, 131 Maria St., will open for the season on July 1, 2023. Beaches are staffed with trained lifeguards from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

  • Community wading pools will open July 1 for the season, operating from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. To learn more about outdoor beaches and wading pools, visit the City’s website.

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City Splash Pads Open For the Season Beginning Saturday

Splash pads are opening for the season beginning on Saturday and will run until Sept. 5, announced by the City of Peterborough on Thursday.

File Photo.

The pads are open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

City splash pads are at the following locations:

  • King Edward Park, 455 George St. S.

  • Rogers Cove, 131 Maria St.

  • Kinsmen Park, 1 Kinsmen Way (Sherbrooke Street and Clonsilla Avenue)

  • Barnardo Park, Barnardo Avenue north of Sunset Boulevard

The Nicholls Oval Park splash pad is undergoing repairs and the splash pad at Turner Park at 673 Chamberlain St. will be opened later by ABC Recreation.

“Splash pads are a sure sign that summer is on its way,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “The City’s Public Works team worked quickly to complete annual commissioning so that our splash pads are available for families for the Victoria Day weekend.”

Any City wading pools will open at a later date when lifeguard supervision is provided. Beaches at Rogers Cove and Beavermead Park will not have supervision until July 1 when the City’s lifeguard program begins.

New small water spray features will be operational later this season at Quaker Foods City Square and Hamilton Park according to the City’s press release.

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New Adaptive Children's Swim Program Launched By YMCA

After receiving a grant from the Peterborough Foundation, the YMCA of Central East Ontario has launched an adaptive swim pilot program for children, especially with disabilities announced on Thursday.

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The program welcomes children of all abilities, including those with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities, as well as those with autism, ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions according to a press release.

“Swimming is an essential life skill, and we have seen there is a need for affordable, adaptive lessons,” said Shannon Hunter, YMCA regional supervisor of aquatics and camp. “Parents are fearful that their children will get left behind without the skills they need to stay safe this summer.”

The program is designed with guidance from Heads Up for Inclusion and Five Counties Children’s Centre. It was developed after all three organizations received multiple requests from parents for a water safety program.

“We recognize that every child is unique and we are committed to providing individualized instruction that caters to each child's specific needs and goals,” said Hunter. “With the help of Five Counties Children’s Centre, our team of experienced and certified swim instructors has received training in adaptive teaching techniques to ensure that every child feels comfortable and supported.”

Registration for the pilot program is full but you can be put on a waitlist or get more information placed on a waitlist by contacting Shannon Hunter at shannon.hunter@ceo.ymca.ca.

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