'Fore the Kids' Golf Tournament Returns For Rotary Club of Peterborough On Sept. 26

The Rotary Club of Peterborough has brought back the ‘Fore the Kids Golf Tournament’ at Bellmere Winds Golf Course for Sept. 26 to support local children.

Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Peterborough.

One example of a child being supported is Jude, who is three years old and has a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy and a Global Development Delay. He has been accessing Five Counties programs like physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy since he was four months old.

“Thank you to everyone who supports this event. It shows the families at Five Counties that they have an entire community behind them, cheering them on.” said Julie, Jude’s mother.

The shotgun start begins at 1 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for individuals and businesses.

Golfers of all skill levels are invited to register for the event at a fee of $150 per person for $600 for a foursome. The price includes a round of golf, a cart for convenience, lunch and the chance to win prizes.

A one-year lease of a Honda from Trent Valley Honda for a hole-in-one is up for grabs.

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Third Year of Gauvreau CPA's 'Gear Up For Good' Initiative Sends 208 Backpacks to Kids For Back-To-School Head Start

There were 208 fully-stocked backpacks given by Gauvreau CPA’s ‘Gear Up for Good’ initiative to kids to get a head start on back to school at the accounting firm on Friday.

(From left to right) Carrie Truman, Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation executive director; Tammy Thompson, Case Worker at Peterborough Bigs; Ava McQuade, 9, Little Sister and Robert Gauvreau of Gauvreau CPA. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The children receiving the backpacks are affiliated with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough (Peterborough Bigs) and Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation.

The initiative is in its third year and has more than doubled its output from last year, with 101 and 73 in the inaugural event.

Seven businesses helped chip in by supplying products for the backpacks:

• Domino's Pizza (200+ pizza dinners donated)

• Ricart Branded Apparel and Promo (200 water bottles and 25 backpacks donated)

• Quaker (800+ snacks donated)

• Eco Chalet Homes (150 Lunchboxes donated)

• Mirror Mirror Beauty Salon (40 Haircuts donated)

• Angela's Hair Co. (10+ Haircuts donated)

• Hair Studio One (10+ Haircuts donated)

Children and parents picked up the supplies throughout the day and selected their knapsacks on a first-come, first-served basis. Kawartha Haliburton Children's Foundation took 75 of the backpacks to be picked up at their facility.

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Gauvreau GPA Hosting Third Annual 'Gear Up for Good' Campaign Give 200 Local Kids a Head Start For School Supplies

200 local kids are getting a head start for back to school supplies as is Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory is hosting its third annual ‘Gear Up for Good’ campaign.

Savannah Thompson has her pick of the litter of 101 backpacks in the Gauvreau Accounting Tax Law Advisory 'Gears Up for Good' initiative from last year. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The initiative provides backpacks and supplies to under-served children in Peterborough from Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Children's Aid Society for the upcoming school year.

This year, the company is increasing its goal from 101 to 200 backpacks from prior years. In addition to the supplies, Gauvreau CPA is providing complimentary haircuts as a way to boost students' confidence as they start the school year according to a press release.

Ricart Branded Apparel and Promo have donated water bottles while Domino's has offered a free pizza to each participating family as part of the campaign.

“Every child deserves the chance to excel in their education,” said Robert Gauvreau of Gauvreau CPA. “We are grateful for the incredible support from our community and partners, and we are determined to make this year's 'Gear Up for Good' campaign the most impactful yet.”

Gauvreau CPA is calling on the public’s assistance to help with the initiative, seeing additional support that includes providing haircuts, backpacks and supplies. Potential assistance can help by visiting Gauvreau’s Amazon Wishlist or drop off donations at their facility located at 150 King St., Suite 100 W by Aug. 16. Backpacks will be distributed on Aug. 23rd.

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Five Counties Holding Ready for School Events to Help Kids With Disabilities or Exceptionalities Adjust to Class

With back-to-school just over a month away, Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) wants to support families with children with disabilities or exceptionalities who are starting class for the first time, announced on Thursday morning.

Hayley Hodges helping FCCC host Ready for School events in August to help with the transition for families who have kids with disabilities or exceptionalities starting class for the first time. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The Centre is hosting Ready for School Family Info Fairs at its sites in Peterborough (Aug. 20), Cobourg (Aug. 21) and Lindsay (Aug. 22). The aim is to ease the transition to school for kids starting JK, SK or Grade 1, making it less worrisome for families whose children may face greater challenges due to physical, developmental or communication needs according to event organizer Hayley Hodges, FCCC client and family engagement lead.

“Any time a child starts school is a big deal for families, but it can be even more nerve-wracking for parents and caregivers whose child has a disability or exceptionality,” she said. “We want to help reduce that anxiety for kids and parents by inviting families to attend our Ready for School events.”

Each event runs from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Advance registration is required and child care will be available.

Attendees will be able to:

• Gain knowledge and experience about going to school for the first time.

• Hear from other parents whose kids with disabilities or exceptionalities have successfully made the transition to school.

• Ask questions of Five Counties clinicians and other professionals who support students.

• Learn how to advocate for their child, while learning about school-based resources to support them.

• Access resources, including the 6F’s of Child Development that can help introduce a child with unique needs to their new school setting.

• Get on board a school bus to see what the ride entails.

• Enjoy snack and welcome packages, including tools, toys and tips.

The Ready for School events organized by Five Counties are not meant to duplicate other school-preparation events said Hodges.

“Our focus at Five Counties is to help kids and youth with disabilities and exceptionalities build their abilities for life,” she said. “One of the biggest life-changing events a child goes through is starting school, so it makes sense for Five Counties to be there for families who may need extra help and reassurance at this time.”

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Peterborough AAA Hockey Council Honours Audrey Runnalls With Memorial Fund

To tribute a beloved community member, the Peterborough AAA Hockey Council honours the Audrey Runnalls Memorial Fund.

(From Left to Right) Mike Hennesey, grandson; Rick Runnalls, son; Bill Juby and Wayne Clark of the AAA Council. Photo courtesy of Wayne Clark.

It was established by Bill Juby and aims to assist players in financial need and ensure that every child can participate in the sport they love.

The $12,500 is drawn from the proceeds of the longstanding PrimeSite Midget Hockey Tournament, now called the Century 21 Tournament of Champions. The tournament has been in the Peterborough hockey community for over two decades.

Organized by Juby, the tournament consistently provided annual bursaries to support young athletes. The efforts continue under the Audrey Runnalls Memorial Fund. Juby had coached Midget teams for over two decades.

Juby dedicated a significant portion of his life to local hockey and fastball. He expressed his desire to honour the memory of Runnalls through this fund according to a press release. She was known for her unwavering support, positive spirit and volunteerism within the hockey community.

“Audrey was an incredible individual whose dedication to the sport and our community was unmatched,” said Juby. “By establishing this fund in her name, we hope to continue her legacy of support and inclusivity in Peterborough hockey.”

Audrey’s sons, Karl and Rick, played in the system.

“Both Rick and I are very proud that our mother’s legacy continues to benefit the Peterborough hockey community and the players in need,” said Karl. She was truly Peterborough’s ‘Hockey Mom,’ not just for us but for all the Petes minor hockey players.”

Chad Cavanagh, Peterborough AAA President was a former player in Bill Juby’s program.

“The Audrey Runnalls Memorial Fund provides financial assistance to families who might otherwise struggle to afford the costs associated with AAA hockey,” he said. “This initiative ensures that all aspiring players have the chance to develop their skills and enjoy the camaraderie and life lessons that come with being part of a team.  This is also a great opportunity to share the legacy of a wonderful hockey parent who brought an infectious positive energy and attitude to minor hockey.”

In recognizing Audrey Runnalls through this memorial fund, the Peterborough AAA Hockey Council says it wants to honour her memory and reaffirm its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all players.

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Little Lakers Night Raises Over $15,000 For High-Demand Treatment In Children

The home team won on and off the lacrosse field after Little Lakers Night in Peterborough, raising $15,287 for local kids’ treatment services on July 11.

Brothers Bo and Oak had a ball at Little Lakers Night as the Five Counties kids also got to participate in the pre-game ball drop during the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers home game. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

The money raised was more than double the $6,784 raised at the first-ever Little Lakers Night last year for Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC).

“The Peterborough Lakers were amazing hosts and partners for Little Lakers Night, and we’re extremely grateful to the team as well as everyone who attended, participated, donated, sponsored and volunteered,” said Linsey Kampf, FCCC annual giving coordinator. “If you measure the success of the event, it’s not only in dollars raised but also in the many smiles on the faces of our kids and families that were evident throughout the game.”

Little Lakers Night featured many highlights, including:

• Five Counties kids and families took part in a behind-the-scenes experience. Kids met Lakers players during their pre-game warmup, took part in the pre-game ball drop, and assisted in the PA booth during the first period.

• Facepainting, Little Lakers Night T-shirt sales, giant Lego and a silent auction organized by Five Counties volunteers and staff took place before and during the game.

• Members of the Junior A and Junior C Lakers volunteered to do pass the bucket through the crowd, which raised $4,000 alone for Five Counties kids.

• Prior to the game, two St. Teresa kindergarten students, Bailey and Raelynn, were honoured for having their design chosen for the special jerseys worn by Lakers players during their pre-game warm-up. The girls’ teacher, Jocelyn Lemay, had encouraged her St. Teresa’s class to enter the jersey design contest. Bailey and Raelynn’s design for the warm-up jerseys -- a red-green-blue, stylized-crayon creation featuring rainbows and hearts – was ultimately transformed into reality thanks to the generosity of Merrett Home Hardware. After the game, the warm-up jerseys were sold in an online auction.

“Five Counties has played a big role throughout the years in our family, and we’re grateful to have this incredible Centre serving families in our community,” said Len Powers, FCCC ambassador and Peterborough Lakers’ board member.

The $15,287 raised from Little Lakers Night supports Five Counties’ Building Abilities for Life campaign. It goes directly to fund high-demand treatment services like speech therapy and occupational therapy.

The end result is that more kids and youth in the region can access life-changing treatment services that they need when they need it.

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Ennismore U15 Athletics Qualify For Nationals After Fourth-Place Finish At Provincial Qualifiers

After a fourth-place finish at the OASA Provincial Qualifiers in Wilmot, Ont., the “Ben Smith Sells” Ennismore U15 Athletics (A’s) have qualified for the National Competition in Quebec from Aug. 14-19.

Photo courtesy of Katy Fallis.

The A’s had an undefeated regular season with several players as OMHA champion Ennismore Eagles U15 team members this year.

“These boys have shown incredible dedication and teamwork throughout the season,” said Coach Brett Stevenson, A’s coach. “We're honoured to have the opportunity to compete at the national level and represent Ennismore and the province of Ontario. Community support will be crucial in helping us make this journey.”

The team is seeking community support to help with travel and accommodation costs. The Ennismore U15s are reaching out to local businesses, organizations, and individuals for donations to help ease the financial burden and ensure all players can participate.

Financial donations can be transferred to ennismoreathletics2024@gmail.com.

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Little Lakers Night Returns In Support of Five Counties Children’s Centre At Peterborough Lakers's Final Home Game

Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) and the Peterborough Lakers are teaming up again for the second annual Little Lakers Night fundraiser on July 11.

Peterborough Lakers mascot Teddy is ready to welcome back Five Counties kids and families to the team’s game on July 11. In 2023, the first-ever Little Lakers Night netted $6,784 for the Building Abilities For Life campaign. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

“Our first-ever Little Lakers Night was a great success, and we’re pleased at the generosity of the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers to again partner with us on Little Lakers Night 2.0,” says Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “Not only will the game feature amazing lacrosse action, many members of our Five Counties family will also play starring roles throughout the game.”

All proceeds support Five Counties’ Building Abilities for Life campaign which allows more kids and youth in the region to access the life-changing treatment services they need when needed according to a press release.

FCCC families will participate in the ceremonial pre-game ball drop and enjoy a behind-the-scenes experience with the Lakers. Dozens of Five Counties kids and families will also enjoy free tickets to the game – something they have done all season through the Five Counties Ticket Assist Program.

“Five Counties has played a big role throughout the years in our family, and we’re grateful to have this incredible Centre serving families in our community,” says Len Powers, a FCCC ambassador and Lakers’ board member. “The Lakers are very proud to support the Centre’s work and are very pleased to again host Little Lakers Night on July 11.”

Families can join pre-game festivities starting at 7 p.m. Face painting for kids by donation, freezies for sale, pass the bucket, and the chance to buy commemorative Little Lakers Night T-shirts in support of Five Counties are available.

A silent auction will be held during the game. Items include two tickets to Canada’s Wonderland, a Crayola Prize Pack, and jewelry from local artist Valerie Davidson.

New this year for Little Lakers Night is the debut of a specially designed warm-up jersey created by a local youth. Lakers players will wear these jerseys during their pre-game warm-up session. These jerseys, sponsored by Merrett Home Hardware, will be available in an online auction.

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City of Peterborough's Every Child Matters Community Project Accepting Submissions of Kids Artwork

The City of Peterborough invites local youth ages seven to 11 to submit artwork for an Every Child Matters community project that honours the victims, survivors and families of the Residential School system.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Artwork should reflect the theme, “What Does Truth and Reconciliation Mean to Me,” and be submitted for consideration by July 15.

The artwork selected for this project will be used to create a design that will be painted on a sidewalk or trail crossing. This will create a place where residents and visitors will be encouraged to pause, reflect, and continue to learn about the legacy of residential schools and the importance of reconciliation.

"“Throughout the year, this space will serve as a powerful reminder of the legacy of residential schools, honouring the healing journey of survivors and families,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “It is a call to action to our whole community to engage in the ongoing work of reconciliation. The City of Peterborough, and City Council, remain committed to reconciliation and building positive relationships with our Indigenous residents and our First Nations neighbours.”

The project is expected to be installed in September 2024, aligning with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The location will be confirmed later this summer. Throughout September, the Peterborough Public Library will display an exhibition of artwork submitted for this project.

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Community Care Peterborough's "Grandparent of the Year" Winners Announced

Elders were honoured at Community Care Peterborough’s 36th-annual Grandparent of the Year awards ceremony as the winners were announced at the Peterborough Public Library on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Heather Doughty and Community Care Peterborough.

The event encouraged children from across the region of Peterborough to recognize a Grandparent, Elder or a special older person in their life.

Nearly 200 nominations from students in grades one to six were submitted including a hand-drawn picture of them with their loved ones.

This year, nominations from children in grade one were accepted; previously, it was open to grades two to six. Several dozen French applications were also received, allowing children to practice their French language skills.

“Each year we are so touched by the array of heartwarming stories we receive from across the City and County of Peterborough,” said Danielle Belair Community Care CEO.

The awards ceremony is referred to as a ‘Smiles All Around’ event.

This year, Community Care presented eight awards, with four winners and four honourable mentions awarded across two categories: Primary (grades 1 – 3) and Junior (grades 4 – 6).

Winners and Honourable Mentions by category:

In the Primary Category (English language):

• Winner – Levi Kloosterman, Grade 3, St. Teresa Catholic Elementary School – nominated his Grandpa Frank Drumm (nicknamed “Bubba”)

• Honourable Mention – Keira M, Grade 2, Edmison Heights Public School – nominated her Great Grandpa Giuseppe

In the Primary Category (French language):

• Winner – Ari Singh, Grade 2, Edmison Heights Public School – nominated his Grandma Suriakala

• Honourable Mention – Makayla Anokye, Grade 2, Edmison Heights Public School – nominated her Grandma Thy Oeun

In the Junior Category (English language):

• Winner – Kimberly Chambers, Grade 4, St. Patrick Catholic Elementary School – nominated her Nana Darlene Damiani

• Honourable Mention – Charlee Dawson, Grade 6, St. Paul Catholic Elementary School – nominated her Grandma Laraine Langley

In the Junior Category (French language):

• Winner – Owen Anderson, Grade 5, Kaawaate East City Public School – nominated his Grandma Jane Anderson

• Honourable Mention – Madi McKeiver, Grade 6, Kaawaate East City Public School – nominated her Grandma Cathy McKeiver

“Congratulations to all the winners, nominees and participants,” said Anna Graham said The Gardens of Peterborough sales and marketing coordinator. “The Gardens of Peterborough is proud to be the Title Sponsor for Grandparent of the Year Award.”

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