Get Your Dogs Clean With 'Pug Wash' Fundraiser to Support Peterborough Veterinary Outreach On Nov. 10

Get your dogs cleaner and support the Peterborough Veterinary Outreach (PVO) as Pet Styling by Becki is hosting a ‘Pug Wash’ fundraising event at 655 Parkhill Rd. W. (behind the plaza) this Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Pet Styling By Becki.

Proceeds go to PVO, which services Peterborough, who may experience barriers that prevent them from accessing veterinary care. 

The cost is $25 (cash only) for each dog which includes de-shedding, a bath, ear cleaning, blow-drying, brushing, nail trimming and lots of ‘pug hugs.’

Photo courtesy of Pet Styling By Becki.

All small-breed dogs are welcome including short-hair pugs such as Frenchies, Bostons, Jack Russells, Dachshunds, and more. 

“The Pug Wash is our favourite event and the Peterborough Veterinary Outreach program is a perfect non profit organization to support local pets,” said Becki.

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Peterborough Woman Wins $500,000 From OLG's MaxMillions With Online Lottery Ticket

Peterborough Lisa Martini-Dunk has 500,000 more reasons to smile winning $500,000 on MaxMillions in the Oct.15 Lotto Max draw, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of OLG.

She was notified by e-mail about her win.

“I logged into my OLG.ca account and thought it said I had won $500,” she said. “Then, I noticed the additional zeros. I felt like I was dreaming and got up to get my glasses so I could see better,” she laughed. “Even then, I didn’t believe it! I asked my family to review the email, and my OLG.ca account. Once we were all convinced the win was real, we were so excited!”

Martini-Dunk has been playing the lottery with OLG for the past few years, with Lotto Max and Lotto 6/49 as her preferred games.

“This win feels like freedom. It feels like a gift and a blessing. My heart is full of gratitude,” she said. “I’ll put the rest aside as I figure out my next steps. I may travel and complete some home renovations.”

The winning ticket was purchased on OLG.ca. 

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Hometown PTBO: Lt. Col. Lee-Anne Quinn and Timelining Her Military and Community Service

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Canadian Armed Forces veteran Lt. Col. Lee-Anne Quinn about why she joined the military, her local community efforts and Remembrance Day's significance.

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Peterborough Police Service Introduce Military Veterans Wellness Program For Increased Veteran Support

The Peterborough Police Service has introduced the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP) in Peterborough, Lakefield and the Township of Cavan-Monaghan, announced on Thursday morning.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Police Service.

The program will help the Service enhance its ability to support and connect with military veterans in our community and within our service according to the Peterborough Police. They continue to say that it equips frontline officers with heightened awareness, training and the tools necessary to recognize and understand military veterans’ unique needs.

The MVWP helps veterans access critical social services offered through organizations such as the Royal Canadian Legion (RCL), Veteran Affairs Canada (VAC), and Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS).

After a police referral, these national agencies will contact the veteran within 72 hours. They may provide a case worker, advocate, or peer support to assist veterans in accessing the benefits and resources available.

A 14-year tenured Peterborough Police officer and member of the Canadian Armed Forces will serve as a program ambassador to our frontline officers. Officers and civilians will also complete online training courses to learn about life in the Canadian Armed Forces, the traits and struggles veterans may face as they transition from a life in the military, and interaction and de-escalation techniques. Peterborough Police anticipate this training will be completed in the coming month.

“As Remembrance Day approaches it is fitting that we take a moment to learn more about the supports available to our veterans and how we can help,” said Stuart Betts, Peterborough Police Chief. “We know there are approximately 3,000 – 5,000 unhoused veterans across Canada, including some in our city.  It is important that we as a service understand the unique circumstances and challenges of veterans who have served and if possible, offer a path to services.”

In addition to launching the program, the Service has created a pin (image below) that will be issued to Peterborough Police Service members who are military veterans, civilian and sworn, serving in the organization. The pin will not only help foster a sense of connection with our community members but also show support to the members of the Service. 

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WorkScore.ai Triumphs At Innovation Cluster's LevelUP Pitch Competition

After the dust settled, WorkScore.ai has been declared the winner of the Innovation Cluster’s LevelUP Pitch Competition at downtown Peterborough’s Market Hall on Tuesday afternoon.

The LevelUP Pitch Competition is the culmination of an intensive 12-week accelerator program that supports later-stage businesses. This second 2024 cohort brought together ten semi-finalists from a record pool of applicants, each representing the next generation of high-impact ventures poised to drive economic growth in the Peterborough region through job creation, innovation, and scalable solutions. Photo courtesy of Innovation Cluster.

Alex Bilyan, Chief Sales Officer of WorkScore.ai, took home the top prize with its AI-powered platform which is designed to optimize warehouse efficiency through real-time performance tracking.

“We’ve come a long way since the start of the year, and the LevelUP program has been incredibly valuable in shaping our success,” said Bilyan. “The difference in our pitch from the beginning to now is remarkable. The mentor sessions were instrumental in helping us refine our pitch, stripping out unnecessary details and building confidence through feedback from different perspectives.”

Runner-up finalist Kuwota received a comprehensive branding package valued at $10,000. Their mental health platform provides a safe space for users to journal and share entries confidentially with their licensed therapists according to Innovation Cluster.

The audience participated in voting for the Best-in-Show prize which was awarded to Creativity by Cod. The prize includes five Expert-In-Resident (ExIR) sessions from the Innovation Cluster to help the company further advance its growth.

"Judges evaluate many factors—the polish, timing, and enthusiasm of each pitch. Some people are natural presenters, while others need to practice to convey their passion,” said Gilberto Gandra, competition judge. “What ultimately set the winner apart was a combination of enthusiasm, visuals, clarity, and investability.”

“The talent and dedication we witnessed at the second cohort of the 2024  LevelUP Pitch Competition were exceptional,” shared Nicole Stephenson, Chair of the Board of Directors. “It was inspiring to watch each cohort participant grow, evolve and refine their business during the program. LevelUP’s mission to foster the Peterborough and Kawarthas region’s most promising businesses is vital to strengthening our community’s economy and reinforcing our role as a center of innovation.”

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GPHSF Accepting Registration For Inaugural Charity Volleyball Tournament to Support Concussion Education and Awareness For Youth Sport

In support of concussion education and awareness for youth sport, the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF) has announced its inaugural Charity Volleyball Tournament at Adam Scott CVI on Feb 1.

Photo courtesy of GPHSF.

Only 12 teams are available for the recreational coed tournament. Teams are $240 with a $50 tax receipt. Registration includes prizes and swag, six guaranteed games (sets) plus playoffs (single elimination knockout), referees, 50/50 and activities throughout the day. Register before Jan. 26 by clicking the link to register online.

“Concussion education and awareness is something that our Foundation has funded for a very long time” said Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director. “Over the past few years, we have been able to provide funding to two very important initiatives; PACA (Peterborough Athletics Concussion Awareness) and the H.O.P.E Bursary in Honour of Steve Montador. This recreational coed tournament will be a fun day that helps us continue supporting these important concussion programs.”

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. If you would like to sponsor or learn more about the event, please email Vince@GPHSF.ca or call 705 740 8074 ext.101.

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United Way and PATH Extend Coats for Community Initiative

United Way Peterborough & District and Peterborough Action for Tiny Homes (PATH) shared an update on the Coats for Community initiative from the PATH location at 385 Lansdowne Street East.

Photo courtesy of United Way Peterborough & District.

Both organizations partnered to expand the reach for the Coats for Community winter clothing program in early fall.

From Oct. 23rd to Oct. 26, the initiative accepted over 600 new and gently used winter coats. The community can continue to donate winter gear and other essential items every Wednesday and Saturday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at PATH on Lansdowne.

“The PATH Community Clothing Hub has been operating for a year and we have been able to give out coats to many people over this time,” said Bev Assinck, PATH volunteer and Board member. “With the addition of Coats for Community, we will be able to support more than 1,000 people to be warmer and safer this winter. This partnership with United Way provides a great boost to the Peterborough community to look after everyone who needs to

“We’ve changed our approach to meet people where they are at and make winter gear available throughout the entire winter,” said said Betsy MacDonald, United Way Director of Community Impact. "

In previous years, Coats for Community held a 1-day event where people had to line up to receive a coat. Instead, people can now access multiple different locations throughout the winter when they find themselves in need of a coat.

“Each year we see an increased number of community members in need to coats, and we expect this year to be no different,” said Jim Russell, United Way CEO. “We are so grateful to announce that Cogeco has stepped up to help us keep up with this growing demand.” Cogeco generously sponsored this year’s Coats for Community initiative, contributing $2,500 that will go towards buying coats in all sizes.

“We are proud to support United Way’s Coats for Community program, which provides warm winter attire to those in need, ensuring that everyone in our community can stay warm during the colder months,” said David Feeley, Cogeco Manager of Programming and Community Relations. “By coming together to support this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to compassion and inclusion, making a meaningful difference in the lives of our neighbours.”

The community can bring their new and/or gently used winter coats, snowpants, hats and mittens to PATH at 385 Lansdowne Street East. Volunteers will accept donations on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily.

Other items accepted include pants, shirts, hoodies/sweaters, blankets, towels, socks, underwear, boots, long underwear, mittens, toques, raincoats, hand warmers, sleeping bags, solar blankets, reusable shopping bags and $5 Tim Hortons gift cards.

The following are pick-uplocations:

Good Neighbours

164 Sherbrooke St.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Please note that ID and registration is required

• Adult and child coats available

Trent Valley Literacy Association

Brookdale Plaza (825 Chemong Rd.)

Monday to Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Adult coats only

TRACKS Youth Program Environmental Science Centre at Trent University

(1600 West Bank Drive) Ground Floor – Office B106

Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Limited quantities of adult and child coats

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Peterborough Petes To Continue Gav’s Corner For Type-1 Diabetic Support

The Peterborough Petes with forward Gavin Bryant is continuing the Gav’s Corner initiative aimed at uniting and supporting individuals impacted by Type 1 Diabetes, announced on Wednesday afternoon.

Gavin Bryant as a member of the Petes hortly after his trade from the Niagara IceDogs. Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen and the Peterborough Petes.

The initiative was started by Bryant and the Niagara IceDogs in September of this year.

It was created with the dual mission of offering support and fostering valuable conversations within the Type 1 Diabetes community. The initiative seeks to bring together people who understand the unique challenges of living with Type 1 Diabetes while also advancing the search for a cure.

The campaign was inspired by Bryant’s sister’s diagnosis in 2021 and his former roommate in Owen Sound, Mark Wooley, both with Type 1 Diabetes.

Bryant was acquired by the Petes in a trade on Oct. 22 and was adamant on continuing the program in Peterborough.

“It has been my goal to recognize and learn about those affected and ultimately help in the fight for a cure,” said Bryant. “This is my way of bringing those affected together for a night of hockey and ultimately just a person to talk to that wants to help.”

Every home game, a total of four tickets will be donated to a family impacted by Type 1 Diabetes. The family in attendance will also receive a video board shoutout and a meet and greet with Bryant after the game. Interested families can apply by filling out an online application.

The program will be facilitated by Morgan Blaind, Petes Coordinator of Marketing and Community Engagement, who previously worked on Diabetes Night in 2022 with former Petes goaltender Michael Simpson, who lives with Type 1 Diabetes.

“We’ve had amazing support from the community in the past with our different player initiatives,” said Blaind. “I’m looking forward to working with Gavin and seeing the support of the program.”

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Peterborough Petes Cannot Hold Lead; Lose 4-3 In Shootout to Oshawa Generals

The Petes held the lead for most of the game but let the Oshawa Generals come back to win 4-3 in a shootout at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth Andersen adn the Peterborough Petes.

Peterborough drew first blood as the Petes forced a turnover and go the puck to Quinton Pagé. He buried it past Isaac Gravelle top shelf for a 1-0 score. Oshawa responded just five minutes later to tie it at one after the first period.

The second period was all Peterborough as Ryder McIntyre received a breakout pass from Petes captain Jonathan Melee. The former was able to slip it by Gravelle to restore their one-goal advantage over their rivals. They extended their lead as Grayden Strohack fed an uncontested Adam Levac in the high slot to score on the backhand for a 3-1 lead going into the third.

Oshawa was able to cue the come back as Ben Danford scored 12 seconds into the third period to cut the deficit in half. Matthew Buckley tied the game as he ripped it top shelf from the high slot for a 3-3 tie.

With overtime settling nothing, the game went to a shootout. The following are the results:

• PBO - Caden Taylor (Goal)

• OSH - Beckett Sennecke (Goal)

• PBO - Ryder McIntyre (No Goal)

• OSH - Colby Barlow (Goal)

• PBO - Braydon McCallum (No Goal)

Peterborough remains winless with the loss after 11 games. The Petes are back in action on Thursday to start a three-game road trip as they travel to Saginaw to take on the Spirit at the Dow Event Center at 7:05 p.m.

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Police Seeking Suspect Who Broke a Window and Stole $1,000 In Alcohol From a Business

The Peterborough Police Service is investigating after a break and enter at a local business on Tuesday.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Officers arrived at a business in the Ashburnham Drive and Hunter Street East area after employees arriving for work noticed a broken window and approximately $1,000 in alcohol missing. 

Police believe the incident happened sometime between 1 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. on the same day.

Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.

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