Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough Reveal Rebel Awards Recipients

The Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough (EFRY) unveiled its Rebel Awards recipients ahead of its eighth-annual Rebel With A Cause fundraising event at Showplace Performance Centre on Nov. 27.

Photo courtesy of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Peterborough.

EFRY says the ceremony honours outstanding local individuals and organizations who have engaged in advocacy and action to address issues of criminalization, challenged practices in the criminal justice system, and worked towards gender equity.

There are live performances by Peterborough’s Babe Chorus and Poet Laureate Ziysah von Bieberstein. A silent auction, a 50/50 draw and a photo booth are fundraising efforts that will be at the ceremony. This year, all proceeds raised will support the Morning Drop-in Program at Trinity Center. 

The 2024 Rebel with a Cause Award recipients are; 

• Cheyenne Buck, Drop-in Program Coordinator- One City Peterborough

• Kelli Marshall, Indigenous Enrollment Advisor/ Dancer - First Peoples House of Learning

• Jocelyn Enright, Community Engagement Coordinator, Kawartha Sexual Assault Center

This year, EFRY is introducing two new awards categories that highlight the work of community partners and businesses that work thoughtfully and creatively to support and uplift vulnerable communities experiencing challenges associated with mental health, addiction, homelessness and criminalization.

The Inaugural recipients we are honouring this year are:

• PATH Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes - Radical Audacity Award

• Arising Collective- Business Excellence Award

Tickets are available online or at the Showplace Performance Centre Box Office at 290 George St. N. Tickets include a light dinner and refreshments.

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Lakefield Farmers’ Market's Annual Holiday Market Runs On Dec. 1

The Lakefield Farmers’ Market invites everyone to shop local and celebrate the season at its annual Holiday Market held at the parking lot beside The Village Inn in Lakefield on Dec. 1.

Locally made gits from Otonabee Apiary. Photo courtesy of the Lakefield Farmers’ Market.

The market will contain a variety of local products, including freshly backed goods, knitwear, VQA wines, local meats, honey, maple syrup, hot sauces, handmade dog treats, prepared meals nd more.

“Our Holiday Market has become a beloved tradition, and we’re thrilled to host it again this year,” said Stacey Sullivan, Market Manager. “It’s a great opportunity for customers to visit their favourite vendors, find unique holiday gifts and since it’s on a Sunday, it’s perfect for those who can’t attend our regular Thursday market.”

Participating vendors include: A1 Gluten Free Gals, Buns & Sweets, Grandma Needled It, Jen’s Home Baking, Jess’s Kitchen, La Mesita Restaurante, Leahy Stock Farm, Otonabee River Crat Co., Ontario Cheese Union, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Purple Tongue Hot Sauce, The Doggery, The Jam Cupboard, Wagner Maple Products, Washburn Island Soaps, and Yellow House Bees & Otonabee Apiary (Vendor list subject to change).

The Holiday Market runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Fourth-Annual Darkness to Light Event Brings Community Members Impacted By Suicide Together In Sunrise Gathering

Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF) is hosting its fourth-annual Darkness To Light for community members impacted by suicide and overdose on Dec. 21 at Rogers Cove.

Photo courtesy of Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation.

The outdoor sunrise gathering marks brighter days ahead after the solstice which is the day with the smallest amount of daylight.

Julie Brown — who led last year’s event — is returning to lead the group with a message of support and a moment of silence as the sun rises on the winter solstice morning.

The event will be held rain, snow, or shine and is free to attend thanks to the support of Seven Hills Developments. Those wishing to attend can show up the morning of the event but are encouraged to pre-register. Organizers ask guests to arrive by 7:30 a.m., as sunrise is expected at 7:45 a.m.

“The holidays can be a difficult time for those struggling with bereavement. After feedback about how impactful the last three ceremonies have been, we are glad to be able to offer once again some comfort for people impacted by suicide and overdose in our community.” said Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director. “All are welcome to join us at Rogers Cove on the morning of December 21st and we would encourage people to come for 7:30 am, have a coffee and join us in a moment of silence as the sun rises over the lake.” 

Donations can be made to the event and proceeds can be used to support the Suicide Bereavement work at Hospice Peterborough.

“Our community has been significantly impacted by suicide and overdose and we hope that this gathering will help create a space where those directly touched can come together for a quiet moment.” said Julie Brown.

“We are very grateful to GPHSF, Your Family Health Team Foundation and Seven Hills Developments for enabling this event to take place again and offering the opportunity for people impacted by suicide and overdose deaths to come together in this meaningful, safe way.” Said Hajni Hős, Executive Director of Hospice Peterborough.

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Downtown Holiday Night Market Hits Peterborough Dec. 6

Get into the holiday spirit, as the third annual Downtown Holiday Night Market will hit Peterborough on Dec. 6.

Photo courtesy of The Neighbourhood Vintage.

The market will run from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Bankers Commons Courtyard of the Commerce Building at Water and Hunter Streets downtown. The courtyard will turn into a marketplace filled with twinkling lights, over 25 vendorslive music.

Hosted by The Neighbourhood Vintage and First Friday Ptbo, the free, family-friendly event has local vendors, makers, musicians and food and drink purveyors.

“We are so excited to bring this collaborative market back to the community this December,” said Jacquelyn Craft market organizer and Neighbourhood Vintage. “Peterborough is lucky to have so many talented local creatives, and this market is an opportunity to get together with friends and family, get into the holiday spirit and support local all in one.”

“The winter months can be a quiet time of year for the First Friday Ptbo art crawls, with the colder weather and other holiday obligations pulling folks away from art-centred evenings. It's been so excellent to see these markets come to life over the years and bring our community together to celebrate local art and music,” said Emma Scott, local graphic designer and First Friday volunteer committee member. “We are so lucky to live in a city where small businesses, restaurants, and volunteers collaborate wholeheartedly with the arts community for events like this. When we help each other, we all thrive.”

Highlights of the Downtown Holiday Night Market include:

• Local Makers & Vendors: Discover handmade gifts, one-of-a-kind crafts, and artisanal goods from over 25 local creators. From jewelry and clothing to home decor and artwork, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

• Live Music: Enjoy the sounds of talented local musicians performing throughout the evening. Featuring local performers Kayla Mahomed, VanCamp, and Brad Renaud. From holiday classics to upbeat tunes, their performances will add to the festive atmosphere and provide a soundtrack to your shopping and dining experience.

• Delicious Food & Drinks: Savor seasonal flavors from local restaurants St. Veronus, Love You, Mean It, La Hacienda, and Vanilla Room. Whether you're in the mood for mulled wine or cider, gourmet street food, or sweet treats, there’s something to warm everyone up on a chilly night.

• Family-Friendly & Accessible: We are committed to making the Downtown Holiday Night Market an inclusive and accessible event for the entire community. Bring the whole family out to enjoy this special holiday market.

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Lang Pioneer Village Hosting Annual Christmas Bazaar Nov. 16

Get ahead on holiday shopping as Lang Pioneer Village is hosting its annual Christmas Bazaar taking place on Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Photo courtesy of HEather Doughty and Lang Pioneer Village.

This market is being held indoors and outdoors at the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building. Various local vendors will sell hand-crafted gifts.

Several handmade items will be available for purchase at the bazaar. The kitchen will also sell food and drink such as soup, hot dogs and refreshments.

A photo booth and raffles are other available amenities at the event.

Admission is by donation on a pay-what-you-want basis.

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Lang Pioneer Village Museum Bringing Halloween of the Past to Life With 'Spooky All Hallows' Eve'

Lang Pioneer Village is inviting everyone to an evening of fun and games with origins of some favourite Halloween traditions at the Spooky All Hallows’ Eve On Oct. 25 and 26 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Heather Doughty and Lang Pioneer Village.

The night features a 19th-century All Hallows’ Eve celebration with a modern twist.

Events and amenities include a wagon/tractor ride, history of confines, party games, graveyard stroll, a witch’s lair, Pirate Hall with a treasure hunt, potions/poison class, shopping, magic show, fortune telling and more.

Listen to the Michi Saagiig people’s tale of the Wendigo. Learn about paranormal investigations undertaken at Lang Pioneer Village Museum by ghost hunters, the Paranormal Seekers and see some of the specialized equipment they use to make their discoveries. Warm up by the fire and witness the magic of the Samhain Celtic fire festival.

Take a break by the Cider Barn for some delicious hot chocolate and monster cookies or visit the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building (PCAHB) for a hot dog or grilled cheese sandwich (additional fee applies). You can also purchase candy and sweet treats in the General Store as you learn about the origins of trick-or-treating.

Remember to come disguised to blend in with the spirits and ghosts lurking in the Village or have your face painted in the PCAHB Great Hall by Faces by 2. At the end of the evening, children will receive treat bags to enjoy on their way home.

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Peterborough Museum & Archives Marking 57th Anniversary With 'Beyond the Galleries ' Tour

The Peterborough Museum & Archives (PMA) will mark the anniversary of its opening 57 years ago on Oct. 27 with Beyond the Galleries tours.   

File Photo.

Visitors will look in-depth at rarely-seen items in the PMA’s extensive collection. The tours, guided by the knowledgeable PMA Curatorial Team, promise an intimate experience with a collection that reflects the Peterborough community's heritage, art and culture. 

Tours start at 12:15 p.m., 1:15 p.m., 2:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m.

Tickets are $10 per person (plus HST) and available for purchase online in person at the PMA or by phone at 705-743-5180.

Each tour will last 45 minutes and can accommodate up to 20 participants.  

In addition to Beyond the Galleries, the Holodomor Mobile Classroom will be on-site on Oct. 27, offering visitors even more opportunities to explore and engage.

The Holodomor National Awareness Tour (HNAT) is a project of the Canada-Ukraine Foundation, a not-for-profit charitable organization. According to the foundation, the mandate of the project is to build bridges among communities to promote inter-culture understanding, awareness and respect for the democratic values that Canadians hold dear. This includes the importance of human rights, the rule of law and human dignity, told through the lens of the Holodomor Famine-Genocide in Ukraine of 1932-1933.

Visits to the Holodomor Mobile Classroom are free of charge.

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2024 Norwood Fair Sees Record-Breaking Numbers

The 2024 Norwood Fall Fair saw record-breaking one-day attendance on Saturday when 23,718 people came through the gates to enjoy the various attractions, shows and entertainment, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the Norwood Fair.

Overall, the fair saw its three-day attendance hit 45,524 according to press release.

This year’s theme was ‘Country Roads Take Me Home.’ It celebrated the fair’s agricultural roots with all roads leading home to make memories with family and friends over Thanksgiving.

“The fair was a tremendous success,” said Paul Quinlan, Norwood Fair General Manager. “We want to thank our fairgoers, exhibitors, vendors and volunteers.”

The event featured the popular heavy and light horse shows, poultry show, steer show and sale, sheepdog demonstrations, 4-H Beef, Goat and Dairy Calf and Junior Shows, antique tractor display and show, lawnmower races, musical entertainment, vendors, school fair and home crafts, Antique Classic Car Show and midway. It also featured the new Junior Fair Ambassador Competition.

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Right to Heal Launches Fundraiser ‘Friendsgiving’ At 100 Acre Brewing Co. On Oct. 20

Right to Heal is hosting a free fundraising event ‘Friendsgiving’ held at 100 Acre Brewing Co. from 2 to 6 p.m. on Oct. 20th.

Liz Shaughnessy-Rowe of Right to Heal (left) and Tim Farquharson, Port Hope Police Chief (right) before a mural with Indigenous roots painted by Brogan O'Rouke, the former's cousin. Shaughnessy-Rowe's former business, The Whistle Stop Café, would often feed those who could not afford meals daily. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The event is in collaboration with the brewery and Dream Team concerts. Live music, vendors, food trucks, beer and a corn hole tournament are the attractions slated for the fundraiser.

Acts include SJ Riley, Joslynn Burford, Mike Kidd and Brad Renaud for live music performances.

There is no goal but every dollar counts according to Liz Shaughnessy-Rowe of Right to Heal.

“The universe is the limit on this one so the more the merrier and any amount, we're grateful for,” she said. “We're about to launch sponsorships so the community can sponsor what we're doing monthly instead of just once in a while, donating money.”

Right to Heal receives limited funding. The provincial government provides $275,000 annually, which primarily funds its Redpath program, an outpatient addiction treatment program.

“It's creating community, it's creating connection and something that we all need and something that some of our clients struggle with is connection with others,” said Shaughnessy-Rowe. “They're so disconnected, and they're so lost that these events connect them with the community and make them feel human again.”

All other expenses are not funded so the organization has to be creative in obtaining funds to keep afloat.

Shaughnessy-Rowe also receives help from the Rotary Club of Peterborough, her self-run moon circle events and money from Whitepath Consulting; her mother’s for-profit business that trains frontline workers for Indigenous communities.

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Peterborough Police Urge Head of the Trent Attendees to Celebrate Safely; Heightened Police Presence During Weekend Festivities

With Head of the Trent homecoming running this weekend from Friday until Sunday, first responders are urging the community to celebrate safely during Trent University’s festivities.

Mark Ressor, Peterborough Police Service Staff Sergeant (left) and Julie Davis Trent Vice-President, External Relations & Development (right) addressing the media of having a safe homecoming during the weekend’s festiviites. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The first responders include the Peterborough Police Service, Peterborough Emergency Management, Peterborough Fire Services, Peterborough City-County Paramedics, Trent University, and the City of Peterborough.

The Peterborough Police have developed a coordinated response to help navigate the weekend over the coming months. As a result, a heightened police presence will be present throughout the city and additional police officers will be hired to patrol the campus.

“During large events, we often see an influx of 911 calls,” explained Mark Ressor, Peterborough Police Service Staff Sergeant. If you are seeing things in the community that pose a risk or a danger, we're asking people to call in so that we're aware of it and can respond appropriately. Ultimately with people's safety and well-being our primary concern.”

He continues to state that during these events, Police typically receive calls regarding noise, disturbances, mischief, damage to property and impaired driving.

While the Police say they have an all-hands-on-deck situation for the weekend, it will not affect any day-to-day calls that are not affiliated with the homecoming weekend.

Police are asking the community to be safe while celebrating, ensure everyone gets home safely and be good neighbors and community members. 

“We know that this is a time of celebration and we would like to see a positive and safe experience for all,” said Ressor.

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