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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

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.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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!”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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. 

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.

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.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

Hometown PTBO: Leslie Yee's Contributions to the Blind/Disabled Communities In Peterborough and the Kawarthas

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Leslie Yee, Canadian Council of the Blind Peterborough Chapter past chair (and guide dog Akira) about her service to the disabled/blind community, her condition and the significance of spreading disability awareness.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.

City of Peterborough Recognizing October As Women's History Month

The City of Peterborough is recognizing October as Women’s History Month with the theme as ‘Women at Work: Economic Growth Past, Present, and Future.’

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

In honour of the occasion, Mayor Jeff Leal has released the following statement:

As we observe Women’s History Month this October, it’s an honour to celebrate the pivotal role that women have played in shaping our workforce and driving economic growth throughout history. This year’s theme, “Women at Work: Economic Growth Past, Present, and Future,” highlights the significant contributions women have made to our community’s prosperity.

From pioneers in traditional fields to modern innovators, women have been a driving force in our local economy. Today, and every day, we recognize the importance of their leadership, entrepreneurship, and dedication in industries. As we look to the future, we must continue to create inclusive spaces to ensure women are empowered to reach their full potential in every sector.

On behalf of the City of Peterborough, I encourage everyone to take time this month to reflect on the profound impact of women in the workforce, past and present. Let’s celebrate their achievements and commit to fostering a future where all women can thrive.

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.


Community Care Peterborough Reveals New Video to Rally Support and Volunteers

Community Care Peterborough (CCP) has released a new promotional video of its services to attract volunteers and financial support to continue serving seniors, announced at their office in East City on Tuesday morning.

Catherine Pink, CCP director of support services (left) and Chris LeBlanc, CCP director of donor and public relations (right) with the “Life Changes, Community Doesn’t” being presented publicly for the first time. In 2023, Community Care Peterborough volunteers provided nearly 85,000 hours of service. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The video, ‘Life Changes, Community Doesn't,’ tells the story of a former volunteer named Sophie who uses the same services she once helped provide. The video highlights Community Care Peterborough’s programs, such as Meals on Wheels, transportation, wellness programs and support for those returning home from the hospital.

“This video reflects a powerful truth—circumstances may change as we age or face challenges, but our community is always there,” said Danielle Belair, CCP CEO. We want people to know that they play a critical role in sustaining this network of care.”

While all positions for volunteers are needed, Drivers are one of the higher priorities for CCP.

“We’re looking for roughly 30 drivers but extras are always good, explained Catherine Pink, CCP director of support services. “Every just one day a week. Every little bit helps.”

In addition to raising awareness of the organization's services, the video serves as a call to action for community members according to a press release.

Community Care Peterborough is actively seeking new volunteers to help deliver meals, provide rides to medical appointments, and offer companionship through its various wellness programs. The organization is also appealing to donors to help fund these critical services, as demand continues to grow.

“Our volunteers are the heart of what we do,” said Belair. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to reach as many people or provide the level of care our clients deserve. We hope this video inspires others to get involved and help us keep this community strong.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tiktok, Youtube and LinkedIn. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for our newsletter here.