Peterborough Museum & Archives Displays Images of Canada’s Triumphs and Tribulations

Canada’s triumphs, failures and sacrifices are displayed at Peterborough Museum & Archives (PMA) in a new travelling exhibition from the Canadian Museum of History and Canada’s History Society.

File Photo.

Snapshots of Canada will be presented from Dec. 12 to March 23, showcasing unforgettable images and thought-provoking texts.

The exhibition pairs 50 powerful photographs with texts by well-known Canadian historians, authors, and journalists, covering topics ranging from the trial of Métis leader Louis Riel to Paul Henderson’s winning goal in the 1972 Summit Series and from the deportation of Japanese Canadians after the Second World War to the standoff at Oka.

"The PMA is thrilled to host this exhibit," said Kim Reid, Curator of the Peterborough Museum & Archives. "It will create lasting memories for our visitors—memories that become the stories we love to share."

“The Canadian Museum of History is delighted to share Snapshots of Canada with the people of Peterborough,” said Caroline Dromaguet, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History. “The exhibition invites visitors to relive both iconic and lesser-known moments that have shaped Canada’s history.”

The photographs, ranging from depictions of high drama to simple joy, were drawn from “100 Photos That Changed Canada (2009)” and “100 Days That Changed Canada (2011)”, published by Canada’s History and HarperCollins Canada. The images and accompanying text explore Canada from four perspectives: Building a Country, Living Together, Seeking Justice and Celebrating Culture. Contributors include literary non-fiction writer Charlotte Gray, best-selling novelist Lawrence Hill, historian Desmond Morton, archivist Jim Burant, award-winning military historian Tim Cook, and journalist Peter Mansbridge.

“We selected the photos for their emotional impact, their aesthetic appeal, their uniqueness, and the significance of the subject they depict,” said Mark Reid, Editor-in-Chief of Canada’s History Society and the editor of the two bestselling books that inspired the exhibition. “But most of all, we chose them for the way they reflect who we were, who we are today, and who we can aspire to become as Canadians.”

Other emblematic events covered in the exhibition include the fight for women’s rights, the residential school system, the election of the Parti Québécois and the second sovereignty referendum, the Winnipeg General Strike, the legalization of same-sex marriage and Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope.

Snapshots of Canada will be presented at the Peterborough Museum & Archives, 300 Hunter St. E., from Dec. 12, to March 23. The arrival of this powerful exhibit will be celebrated with a public opening on Dec. 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

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Hometown PTBO: Andrew Mills Recovering From a Brain Tumour to Direct "Crossing Over" at Market Hall On May 29-31

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Andrew Mills, director of "Crossing Over" for Trent Valley Archives Theatre, about the production at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre from May 29-31, his recovery from suffering a brain tumour in 2018 and his first directing role since his injury.

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City of Peterborough to Recognize National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

The City of Peterborough is recognizing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is recognized each year on Dec. 6.

File Photo.

It remembers the 14 women murdered at École Polytechnique in Montréal during a shocking act of gender-based violence. The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is also a day to reflect on the continuing issue of violence against women.

Mayor Jeff Leal has made the following statement on the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women:

“On December 6, the City of Peterborough joins Canadians across the nation in observing the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day holds a solemn significance as we honour the 14 women who tragically lost their lives on this day in 1989 at École Polytechnique. Their memory reminds us of the urgent need to address and end gender-based violence in all its forms.

Gender-based violence continues to persist in our communities. It is a harsh reality that undermines the safety, dignity, and potential of so many. We must recognize that this is not a private issue—it is a societal one, demanding collective action and commitment.

"In Peterborough we are committed to fostering a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported. I encourage all residents to reflect on the role we each play in challenging sexism, advocating for equity, and supporting survivors.”

Resources

• YWCA Peterborough Haliburton provides shelter, resources and support for women escaping gender-based violence.

• The Peterborough Domestic Abuse Network, a network of organizations working to end domestic abuse in the City and Peterborough County.

• The Kawartha Sexual Assault Centre provides support to anyone affected by sexual violence or harm, including crisis support and counselling.

• The Government of Canada, National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

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Man Who Refused to Leave Fast-Food Bathroom Arrested For Drug Possession Charges

A 45-year-old Peterborough man is facing multiple drug possession charges after an incident Thursday evening.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

At roughly 9:15 p.m., the Peterborough Police received a call from staff at a local fast-food restaurant on Lansdowne Street about a male in the washroom who was refusing to leave.

Officers from the Community FIRST Unit responded and investigated. The male was located, identified and wanted on an outstanding warrant. As a result, the male was subsequently arrested.

During a search of the suspect, after arrest, officers located and seized the following:

• 90.7g of Fentanyl

• 6.1g of Crystal Methamphetamine

• 1.4g of Crack Cocaine

• Hydromorphone pills

• Clonazepam pills 

• Dilaudid pills

• 10.7g of Heroin

• 10.8g of Cocaine

The man is charged with:

• Possession of a schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Methamphetamine

• Possession of a schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Cocaine x 2

• Possession of a schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Heroin

• Possession of a schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking – Other Drugs

• Possession of a schedule IV substance for the purpose of trafficking

• Possession of a schedule II substance for the purpose of trafficking x 2

The accused was held in custody and appeared in court on Friday.

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Peterborough Petes Showered From Teddy Bear Toss After 3-2 Overtime Win Against Sarnia

The stuffed animals were flying as the Peterborough Petes won in overtime 3-2 against the Sarnia Sting on Teddy Bear Toss night at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday night.

Photo courtesy of Kenneth ANdersen and the Peterborough Petes.

The game was deadlocked with no score until the last minute of the second period where Sarnia was on the power play. Tyson Doucette blasted a one-timer from the point that got by Easton Rye for a 1-0 lead.

With no scoring after halfway through the third period, the Petes fans were anxious to let throw their teddy bears on the ice which occurs after the Petes’s first goal.

That was a good opportunity Petes defenceman Blake Gowan to get his first career OHL goal as he joined the rush. He stickhandled the puck and backhanded it past the Sting goalie for a 1-1 game and to send all of the teddy bears flying to the ice.

Donations of other stuffed animals, toques, gloves and socks flooded the ice. There were 1571 donations were collected in support of the Move 99.7 and Pure Country 105 Christmas Toy Drive, in support of the Salvation Army’s Annual Christmas Appeal.

Less than two minutes later, Peterborough was on the power play. Ryder McIntyre tried a wraparound bid but went off a defender. The ricochet met Aiden Young’s stick and he buried it for the Petes’s first lead of the game, 2-1.

Sarnia was able to battle back late in the period. With 62 seconds left in regulation, Doucette struck again with another one-timer to tie things up at two for overtime.

Just as Peterborough saw their power play finish, Braydon McCallum passed it across to Caden Taylor who sniped it home on a one-timed shot in overtime for the walk-off goal for the 3-2 win. This was the first winning streak for the Petes this season with two straight overtime wins.

The Petes hit the road to Brantford to take on the at the Brantford Civic Centre on Friday. Puck drop is at 7 p.m.

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Peterborough's Housing Crisis Continues to Be Problematic Says United Way

The United Way Peterborough & District’s 19th Edition of Housing is Fundamental report that highlights Peterborough’s worsening rental market according to author Paul Armstrong.

Paul Armstrong authored the Housing is Fundamental report annually. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This year’s report analyzes the market and underscores the ongoing challenges posed by housing affordability and accessibility.

Their local key findings include:

• Canada has reached a new low for its vacancy rate at 1.5 per cent

• Peterborough’s vacancy rate remains at 1 per cent

• The average market rent is $1,325 across all units, which is a 6.5 per cent increase from last year

• Three-bedroom units saw the largest increase in average market rents at 7.7 per cent

• The annual income required to afford the average market rent is $53,000

Average Rent In Canada

Average Listed Rents by Unit Type - Feb. 2024

Rent Year-Over-Year Change

The report also recognized these highlights of the rental market in Canada:

• Canada-wide vacancy rate was 1.5 per cent (Oct. 2023), a new low

• Strong rental demand outpaced supply

• Tighter markets with lower affordability

• Rent growth exceeded average wage growth by a wide margin

• Rent arrears increased from 6.5 per cent (2022) to 7.8 per cent (2023)

• Lower-income renters faced below-average vacancy rates for the least expensive apartments

Armstrong highlighted the contributing issues using data from Statistics Canada and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

“When surging rents outpace income increases, something is wrong. When people pay their rent and then find themselves at food banks to eat, something’s amiss,” he said. “When inadequate supply of rental units produces a 1.0 per cent vacancy rate in Peterborough, something has to change. When housing costs are now the primary driver of inflation and 20% of Canadian rental stock is owned by large capital enterprises, something’s inequitable. When homelessness grows, but social housing builds don’t materialize, something’s unjust. The housing crisis deepens with little indication of relief.”

“Housing remains the cornerstone of a healthy and thriving community,” said Jim Russell United Way CEO. “Data is showing us that foodbanks are seeing record high numbers of first-time users. Without stable and affordable housing, individuals face immense barriers in every aspect of their lives, from purchasing food to employment to health. This year’s report is a call to action for all levels of government and community partners.”

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Peterborough Musicfest Seeks Volunteer Treasurer On Board of Directors

Peterborough Musicfest is seeking a volunteer to join its Board of Directors as a treasurer, announced on Thursday.

Since its inception in 1987, Peterborough Musicfest has become a summer classic in the region, drawing over 118,000 attendees annually to its free-admission concerts. The festival has generated over $4.3 million in local activity each year. Photo courtesy of Peterborough Musicfest.

The treasurer will oversee the festival’s financial health, work closely with the Executive Director, Board and bookkeeper to ensure sound fiscal planning and governance according to a press release.

This volunteer position is ideal for someone with a strong background in financial management.

The role involves approximately 20 hours per year, including board meetings, executive and committee discussions and a minimum of five nights of park support throughout the summer months. The successful candidate will also provide financial oversight, assist in budgeting and help ensure compliance with government reporting requirements.

Applications are open until 4 p.m. on Jan. 17. They can be emailed to Tracy Condon, Board Chair, at info@ptbomusicfest.ca.

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Enbridge Gas Invests In Selwyn Fire Department to Support Firefighter Training

An investment from Enbridge Gas Inc. is helping the Selwyn Fire Department to support firefighter training, announced at Selwyn Fire Hall 1 in Bridgenorth on Thursday.

(from left to right) Ron Black, Selwyn Township Deputy Mayor; Sherry Senis, Selwyn Township Mayor; Gord Jopling, Selwyn Fire Department Fire Chief; Jeff Braithwaite, GTA East Supervisor Operations, Enbridge Gas; Mary Coulas, Ennismore Ward Councillor and Brian Henry, Smith Ward Councillor. Since the launch of Safe Community Project Assist in 2012, 369 grants have been provided to Ontario fire departments for additional firefighter training. Photo courtesy of Selwyn Township.

The investment helps the Fire Department purchase firefighting training materials through Safe Community Project Assist–a program with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC). It supplements existing training for Ontario volunteer and composite fire departments in the communities where Enbridge Gas operates.

“At Enbridge, safety is at the centre of everything we do and a value we live by,” says Jeff Braithwaite, GTA East Supervisor Operations, Enbridge Gas. “We are committed to providing emergency response training support to Ontario firefighters so they can continually learn, improve, and protect the vibrant and healthy communities they call home.”

This year’s $125,000 investment from Enbridge Gas will be shared by 25 Ontario fire departments, including Selwyn Fire Department. The funds will be used to purchase educational materials to assist in training firefighters in life-saving techniques.

“Fire departments train every single day and that’s why it’s important for them to have access to the right materials to keep their members and the public safe. Safe Community Project Assist helps departments afford some of these training tools and improves the ongoing learning that occurs across Ontario,” says John McBeth, Acting Ontario Fire Marshal and Acting Chair of the FMPFSC.

“We are very grateful to Enbridge Gas and the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council for supporting Selwyn Fire Department with these training materials. Proper training has always been very important to our responders, and these men and women strive to advance their knowledge and training to be the best they can be for our community,” said Fire Chief Gord Jopling. “As province-wide mandatory certification rapidly approaches, the need for training materials for our volunteer firefighters is more important than ever.”

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Peterborough Healthcare Providers Offer Tips During Respiratory Illness Season

With respiratory illness season upon us, the Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC), Peterborough Family Health Team (PFHT) and Peterborough Public Health (PPH) are providing healthcare tips to consider before going to the Emergency Department.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

With mounting patient volumes at PRHC, all providers ask patients to assess the urgency of their conditions and consider alternatives to the ED if they do not require emergency care. PPH says to consider your family doctor or nurse practitioner (if you have one), as they may offer same-day appointments.

PFHT-affiliated physicians also offer extended-hour clinics to serve their rostered patients with non-emergent health concerns. Those with a family physician or nurse practitioner are encouraged to call them first and to use the extended hours service if their physician is away. Learn more about the extended hours service.

Those without a primary care provider can view a list of alternative healthcare options. 

PRHC's ED is available 24/7 for patients who need emergency care.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for anyone over six months. PRHC does not offer these vaccines to members of the community. They may also be available at your local pharmacy. COVID-19 vaccination can be booked through the Provincial Vaccine Booking Centre online or by calling 1-833-943-3900. Eligible residents can receive testing for COVID-19 at participating pharmacies.

Residents are advised to check Peterborough Public Health’s COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Virus Risk Index for guidance on staying safe during holiday gatherings. PPH suggests to consider borrowing a CO2 monitor from your local library to monitor indoor air quality and help prevent the spread of respiratory infections.

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Peterborough GreenUP Downtown Retail Space to Close in New Year

GreenUP (also known as GreenUP Store and Resource Centre) is closing its downtown retail space in the new year.

File Photo.

“Ensuring sustained financial viability to achieve our mission is one of our key strategic priorities, and unfortunately our downtown retail store no longer serves GreenUP in the way we need it to,” said Tegan Moss, GreenUP executive director. “This will create room for us to focus on fostering awareness in other areas, changing mindsets, and advancing sustainability through our programs.”
 
The store will be open regular hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday until Dec. 21.

There will be a clearance sale of any remaining stock during regular operating hours from Jan. 7 to 17.

GreenUP gift certificates will continue to be honoured at GreenUP Ecology Park, however if a certificate holder wishes to use it at the store, they are encouraged to bring it in for their holiday shopping. All proceeds from the store continue to directly support GreenUPs’s climate work in the community.
 
“While the closure feels like a loss, the widespread availability of sustainable products that were once very hard to find is a win. This is a sign of progress we’re proud to have supported,” said Moss. “We are grateful for the store’s impact and the support it drew from the community,” says Moss. “It was our privilege to connect you with sustainable products, and we look forward to working with you in new ways to deepen personal climate action.” 

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