United Way Announces Chair For 2024 Community Campaign

United Way Peterborough & District has appointed Shirley Turner as Chair of the 2024 Community Campaign, announced on Wednesday.

Shirley Turner (left) after the public announcement of being appointer chair with Anne Odercin, United Way director of philanthropy (right). Photo by David Tuan Bui

“It's such an energetic team,” said Turner. “I can't wait to be a part of it and find out how we can help more in the community.”

The retired teacher and local realtor joined the cabinet last year as a community ambassador.

“United Way is the heartbeat of our community,” said Turner. “Every dollar raised here, stays here. I’ve lived in Peterborough my entire life and I’ve seen firsthand how United Way’s support transforms lives. It’s an honour to lead this year’s campaign and work towards a brighter future for our community.”

As Chair, Turner leads the Fundraising Cabinet of volunteer leaders in spearheading fundraising efforts, speaking with potential donors and hosting community events.

“Shirley’s dedication and passion for our community are truly inspiring,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “Her leadership and commitment to making a difference align perfectly with our mission. We are confident that under her guidance the 2024 campaign will achieve remarkable success.”

The United Way is seeking cabinet members to join their team for the 2024 campaign. Potential volunteers can find more information or can join online or contact Anne Ondercin, director of philanthropy at 705-742-8839 x30.

The campaign launch is scheduled for Sept. 11 at the Healthy Planet arena.

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Rotary Club of Peterborough Hosting Open House For General Public to Understand Its Operations

The Rotary Clubs of Peterborough, Peterborough-Kawartha, and Bridgenorth-Ennismore-Lakefield are hosting an open house for the public to understand the Rotary’s operations this Thursday at the McDonnel St. Activity Centre.

The Club celebrated its 100th Anniversary on April 1, 2021 Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

The open house is from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with opening remarks at 5:45 p.m. Guest speakers are also at the open house to speak to the public.

“Guests will have the chance to chat with Rotarians and see how Rotary is making a difference in our community and around the world,” as read in a statement from a press release.

Light food is being provided with a cash bar available on site.

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City of Peterborough Marks This Week As Emergency Preparedness Week

The City of Peterborough is marking this week as Emergency Preparedness Week by urging residents to be prepared in case of emergency.

Photo by Keegan Beekers.

This year’s public education initiative theme is ‘Plan for every season.’  

By taking a few simple steps, residents can become better prepared to face the range of unique emergency challenges facing Peterborough on a seasonal basis. Residents are encouraged to: 

• Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to their community and region can help residents better prepare. 

• Make an emergency plan – It will help individuals and their families know what to do. 

• Prepare an emergency kit – Having basic supplies to enable residents to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours without power or tap water is a widely recommended guideline. During emergencies, it may take time for emergency services to reach everyone in need, especially if the situation is widespread or resources are limited. Being prepared to sustain themselves and their family for that initial period, not only eases the burden on emergency responders but also increases their chances of staying safe and comfortable until help arrives. 

“Emergencies can vary widely in nature, so it is important for us to adapt our preparations accordingly. Whether it's a natural disaster, power outage, or other unforeseen event, having a well-thought-out emergency plan and supplies can provide peace of mind and increase our resilience in challenging situations,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. 

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Twenty Community Groups Made Peterborough Parks Greener For the Great Community Litter Clean-Up

The first Great Community Litter Clean-up saw 20 community groups and organizations come together during Earth Week to pick up litter in Peterborough parks and along trails.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

There were 1.2 tonnes of litter collected which equals more than 133,000 plastic water bottles according to The City of Peterborough.

“As always, our community really came together for the betterment of the environment,” said Councillor Joy Lachica.“We all play a role in having a beautiful, litter-free City, whether by picking up litter, putting trash in the proper receptacles or packing our blue boxes to reduce blowing recyclables on collection day.” 

Groups can organize a litter clean-up in a park, trail or public space any time. Registration can be found on the City’s website to receive a free litter clean-up kit and arrange a designated time and location for Public Works staff to collect the garbage.  

A new online collaboration tool is available on the City’s community consultation website. Residents can log their completed litter clean-up event on an interactive map and connect with other people and clean-up groups in the community.

Through this forum, residents can also share news about their event plans, share ideas, and offer to help others. 

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2024 Capable Con Returns to Venture North On June 1 to Cap Off National AccessAbility Week

The Council for Persons with Disabilities (CPD) has launched the return of Capable Con, a family-friendly free event that was announced at the Venture North Building on Tuesday morning.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Venture North Parking lot on June 1, the final day of National AccessAbility week.

Capable Con features fun activities, vendors, and live entertainment while promoting and creating healthy dialogues about inclusivity and accessibility.

“That's what we're aiming for: have fun, be engaged, learn, ask questions and just really enjoy themselves,” said Jason King, CPD marketing and programming coordinator.

Attendees have a chance to experience CPD's innovative Virtual Reality Simulation of the Time in My Shoes Program, offering a firsthand perspective on the daily challenges many individuals face.

“Disability touches every aspect of life and it's crucial that we ensure equal opportunities for all individuals, whether it's access to services, inclusive environments, or employment opportunities,” said Cody McIntyre, CPD Council Vice Chair.

The inaugural event launched in 2022. King says it is getting bigger and better each year with new annual features.

“Canopy Services is bringing their sensory tent to check out,” he explained.” It's designed to give you some place peaceful where you can have a weighted blanket or some textured items, noise-cancelling headphones, whatever you might need to calm yourself and relax. It's a really big deal when it comes to people with autism or with other types of intellectual challenges. 

Since the event’s inception, Capable Con has been bringing back its ‘Capable Crew,’ a team of everyday superheroes with disabilities who will visit various organizations to celebrate the community's diverse tapestry and promote inclusivity.

The following are the characters showcased for Capable Con:

• Scout and traveller, a hero with vision loss and his guide dog

• Amanda Auriel, a hero with hearing loss but can read body signals and lips to capture words spoken. She uses a skateboard with her name spelled out in sign language.

• Power Pals Jordan and Jamie who are on the autism spectrum. They possess the power of hyper-focus, unconventional outlooks, pattern recognition, great memory and recall.

• Bionica Bot, an amputee gymnast with interchangeable parts for her arm to suit the task at hand.

• Cruze, a hero able to navigate anywhere with the power of his unique wheelchair

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Peterborough Petes Forward Brennan Faulkner Named Westland Insurance Community Player of the Month

Peterborough Petes forward Brennan Faulker is the recipient of the Westland Insurance Community Player of the Month for March.

Photo by dAVID tUAN bUI.

The London native participated in three ball hockey visits to local schools and attended the Volt Hockey launch event at the YMCA of Central East Ontario which is designed to create a team environment for players with disabilities.

“I think it’s very important to be active members of the community,” said Faulkner. “We’re role models for these kids and it’s important to be a positive influence.”

The Petes Ball Hockey Program launched last year and has provided free ball hockey to over 2,000 local students and counting.

The Petes, in collaboration with educator ambassadors in each school, provide each participating school with all necessary equipment, training and support to play ball hockey at no cost.

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Interim Co-Executive Directors Hired at Peterborough Community Health Centre Hires to Spearhead Establishment of New Community Health Centre

The Board of Directors of the Peterborough Community Health Centre (CHC) has appointed David Jeffery and Christine Brander as Interim Co-Executive Directors, announced on Wednesday.

JOHNATHAN BENNETT, CHC DIRECTOR AND CHAIR IS PART OF FOUR BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEMBERS. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

“David Jeffery is renowned for his decade-long leadership at Chigamik Community Health Centre, and brings a wealth of experience in establishing inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare environments,” said Jonathan Bennett, Peterborough CHC’s board chair. “Under his guidance, Chigamik CHC evolved into a bilingual and Indigenous-focused healthcare facility, catering to the diverse needs of communities in North Simcoe Muskoka. We are so pleased that he and Christine will join us to lead the establishment of our CHC.”

Jeffery's dedication to inclusivity and accessibility makes him a natural leader who can guide the Peterborough CHC toward its mission of promoting community well-being according to a press release.

“I am honoured to collaborate with Christine Brander in leading the establishment of the Peterborough Community Health Centre,” said Jeffery. “Together, we are poised to create a healthcare model prioritizing inclusivity, accessibility, and community empowerment.”

Brander has over two decades of healthcare expertise across various domains which include acute care and primary care settings. With a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance and Management, Brander’s extensive background encompasses medical education, hospice palliative care and health system planning.

She had a recent tenure with the Ontario Health Central Region System Strategy, Planning, Design and Implementation team.

“I am thrilled to join the Peterborough Community Health Centre as Co-Executive Director and contribute to positive changes in healthcare delivery," said Brander. “With a focus on collaboration and innovation, we will strive to enhance accessibility and effectiveness in delivering healthcare solutions that make a meaningful difference in people's lives.”

Newly funded, which was sought on Feb. 16 last year, the Peterborough CHC is positioned to address the region's pressing healthcare needs while focusing on social determinants of health and supporting vulnerable populations as stated in a press release.

The CHC’s key initiatives are attracting new family doctors and nurse practitioners, reducing pressure on hospitals, attaching thousands of patients to healthcare providers, serving as a hub for social services, and promoting a healthier, safer downtown community.

The Peterborough CHC's programs and services will encompass comprehensive primary care, mental health services, chronic disease management and culturally appropriate care facilitated by Indigenous Traditional Healers. Additionally, the centre will be pivotal in coordinating social services and collaborating with Indigenous partners.

The next phase of the Peterborough CHC initiative involves securing an interim location and commencing client services by the end of the calendar year.

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2023 Civic Awards Nominations Remain Open Until April 5

Nominations for the City of Peterborough 2023 Civic Awards will be open until April 5 at 4:30 p.m., announced on Thursday.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY OF PETERBOROUGH.

The annual Civic Awards recognize and honour local volunteers and achievers in sports, arts, and culture who had outstanding achievements in 2023. 

Nominations are being accepted for the following categories: 

• Community Betterment 

• Cultural Betterment 

• Environmental Stewardship 

• Holnbeck Award 

• Adult Athlete of the Year 

• Athletic Award of Merit 

• Junior Athlete of the Year 

• Senior Athlete of the Year 

• Mayor's Youth Award 

• Volunteer of the Year 

• Youth Volunteer of the Year 

• Lifetime Achievement Award 

Nomination packages are available using the interactive form online and paper copies are available at City Hall, 500 George St. N. 

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Nominations Sought For Class of 2024 Pathway of Fame; Deadline On April 30

The Pathway of Fame, Peterborough and District has opened their nominations to the public for inducting the class of 2024, announced on Tuesday.

THE PATHWAY OF FAME IS A GRASSROOTS, NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATION COMPRISED OF COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS. THE FIRST CLASS HONOURED WAS IN 1998. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

Nominations run until April 30 and submissions after the date will be considered for next year. They can be made for the following categories:

• Visual Arts

• Dramatic Arts

• Literary

• Entertainment/Musical

• Cultural Betterment

• Community Samaritan

• Community Builder

• Media

Nomination forms can be downloaded online or hard copies are available at Package Plus on Rink Street. The cost is $10 per nomination.

Those selected are vetted by a citizen’s committee appointed each year to review them and are recommended for induction by a Nominations Committee.

The inductees are honoured each September and hosted at Showplace Performance Center. Their names will be engraved onto individual granite markers permanently installed along the Pathway of Fame at Del Crary Park.

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Peterborough Lions Club Hosting Spring Shoe Drive to Benefit Those In Need Locally and Abroad

In a partnership with Soles4Souls, the Peterborough Lions Club is hosting a shoe drive this spring to collect any gently used footwear and new socks to help those in need locally and abroad.

JUDY JENKINS WITH THE 2021 SHOE DRIVE SIGN WITH A MINOR CORRECTION AFTER SMITH’S FINAL DONATION. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI.

“Unwanted footwear is turned into opportunities, keeping them from landfills and putting them to further use by those in need, creating jobs and empowering people to break the cycle of poverty,” as stated in a Lions Club press release.

Drop-off locations are in orange boxes at the Peterborough Lions Club at 347 Burnham St. and various locations throughout the town.

Donations are being taken from May 1 to June 21.

New or used baby-to-adult footwear including work, dress, casual, runners, sandals, winter boots and more are accepted.

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