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Spook-tacular events to celebrate Halloween in the Kawarthas region

From trick-or-treating to haunted walks and ghost tours to themed fundraisers, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Halloween in 2024 across the Kawarthas region, including viewing the spooky home displays at 4 Payne Crescent in Port Hope, which will again offer a Victorian witches tea display for the second year on Halloween night. (Photo courtesy of Laura Farmer)

We hope you had your filling of turkey and apple pie on the Thanksgiving weekend, because while some Halloween events around the Kawarthas region this month will have you snacking on candy, others may leave you without an appetite.

Today, we know Halloween as a day for putting on costumes, collecting candy, and getting your fright on. However, the original celebration dates to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain occurring at the end of summer. With winter being associated with human death, it was believed that on the day of the new year, the boundary between the living and dead blurred, so the Celts would wear costumes to ward off ghosts.

When the Catholic church declared November 1st as All Saints Day (or All Hallows Day), the day before it (the night of Samhain) became known as All-Hallows Eve, which has turned into the Halloween we know today.

Celebrations around the region this year range from family-friendly fundraisers and educational events, to the most terrifying haunts that will be sure to get your heart racing, bones chilling, and blood pumping.

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Halloweek at Pie Eyed Monk in Lindsay (October 23 – 31)

To kick off their annual Halloweek, Creative Force and Pie Eyed Monk in Lindsay is hosting a dinner and screening of "Scream," the film which redefined the slasher-horror drama, on October 23, 2024. Other events throughout the week include a trivia night, HallowQueen Drag Show, Thriller dance, haunted house, and more. (Photo: Pie Eyed Monk)
To kick off their annual Halloweek, Creative Force and Pie Eyed Monk in Lindsay is hosting a dinner and screening of “Scream,” the film which redefined the slasher-horror drama, on October 23, 2024. Other events throughout the week include a trivia night, HallowQueen Drag Show, Thriller dance, haunted house, and more. (Photo: Pie Eyed Monk)

Creative Force and Pie Eyed Monk (8 Cambridge St. N.) in Lindsay are once again gearing up for a whole week of frights with Halloweek. The restaurant and brewery is hosting a line-up of new and annual events from Wednesday, October 23 until Thursday, October 31.

Running at the venue during the week is a dinner and the screening of the classic film that reinvented the slasher-horror genre, Scream (October 23, 6:30 p.m.), Halloween trivia with prizes (October 24, 6:30 p.m.), the annual HallowQueen Drag Show for ages 19+ (October 25, 7:30 p.m.), and the Thriller Halloween Dance for ages 19 + (October 26, 9 p.m.).

Pie Eyed Monk will also be hosting their haunted house on October 25 and 26 and 30 and 31, as well as the Boos and Brews haunted corn maze at Stellmar Farm (136 Sand Bar Rd., Little Britain) on October 18, 25, and 26. (Editor’s note: the haunted house has been cancelled).

Visit creativeforce.ca/halloweek for more information and to purchase tickets.

 

Spooky All Hallows’ Eve at Lang Pioneer Village in Keene (October 25 & 26)

Learn about the history of coffins and body snatching during Lang Pioneer Village Museum's annual Spooky All Hallows' Eve on October 25 and 26, 2024. The family-friendly event also features the origins of trick-or-treating, the story of werewolves, wagon rides, magic shows, face painting, festive snacks and drinks, a séance, fortune telling, and much more. (Photo: Heather Doughty)
Learn about the history of coffins and body snatching during Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s annual Spooky All Hallows’ Eve on October 25 and 26, 2024. The family-friendly event also features the origins of trick-or-treating, the story of werewolves, wagon rides, magic shows, face painting, festive snacks and drinks, a séance, fortune telling, and much more. (Photo: Heather Doughty)

Get dressed up in your best costumes for the annual Spooky All Hallows’ Eve at Lang Pioneer Village Museum (104 Lang Rd., Keene) on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26.

Open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. each night, the village will transport you back in time with an array of spooky displays and introduce to you the origins of favourite Halloween traditions.

Alongside learning about the origins of trick-or-treating, the story of werewolves, and the history of coffins and body snatching, highlights include wagon rides, magic shows, face painting, festive snacks and drinks, a séance, fortune telling, and much more.

Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors (60+), $7 for youth aged 2-14, and free for children under 2. For $40, families can get a pass inclusive of two adults and up to four youth. Buy advance tickets at www.langpioneervillage.ca/events/all-hallows-eve/.

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Tour of the Medieval Macabre and Gruesome History at Blades of Glory in Hastings (October 25 & 26)

Blades of Glory in Hasting is hosting the Medieval Macabre, Gruesome History tour on October 25 and 26, 2024. Including only true stories of real crimes and real-life heinous people, the tour is recommended for mature audiences and requires parental supervision for those under 18. (Graphic: Blades of Glory)
Blades of Glory in Hasting is hosting the Medieval Macabre, Gruesome History tour on October 25 and 26, 2024. Including only true stories of real crimes and real-life heinous people, the tour is recommended for mature audiences and requires parental supervision for those under 18. (Graphic: Blades of Glory)

Visit Blades of Glory Medieval Entertainment & Educational Park (122 Dunlay Road, Hastings) on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, October 26 for a tour of the medieval macabre and to learn about history’s bone-chilling darker side.

This 40-minute tour will take visitors to learn about the origins of vampires, witches, and the most prolific female serial killer in medieval history. Without any made-up villains or jump scares, the tour includes nothing but terrifyingly true stories of heinous people and gruesome events. With a display of torture devices, the ghost walk ends with a festive execution.

The tour is rated for mature audiences and anyone under 18 requires parental supervision. General admission costs $30 and must be purchased in advance online at bladesofglory.ca.

 

Haunted Forest Walk at Go Away Acres in Minden (October 25 – 27)

Don't stray off the path at the fourth annual Go Away Acres Haunted Forest in Minden from October 25 to 27, 2024, featuring all new horrifying displays not recommended for children under 10. (Photo: Go Away Acres)
Don’t stray off the path at the fourth annual Go Away Acres Haunted Forest in Minden from October 25 to 27, 2024, featuring all new horrifying displays not recommended for children under 10. (Photo: Go Away Acres)

For those who can handle a fright, get spooked for a good cause during the fourth Haunted Forest Walk at Go Away Acres (1043 Turntable Dr., Minden).

This is not just any walk in the park: the more than 500 risk-taking visitors who walked through last year will tell you not to stray off path, as you don’t know what awaits you in the Haunted Forest. And this year promises even more terrifying scenes!

Admission for the event is $3 with proceeds going towards the Minden Community Food Centre. The forest is open from 7 to 10 p.m. on October 25, 26, and 27. The event is not recommended for kids under 10. Follow along on Facebook for more information.

 

Get Your Spook On in Millbrook (October 26)

Locals and visitors to downtown Millbrook will be getting their sweet treats early this year with the Get Your Spook On event happening from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 26.

Getting the whole village in the spooky spirit, the event will see businesses in the downtown open for trick-or-treaters dressed up in their best costumes. Now that’s a sweet deal!

 

Halloween in the Booro in downtown Peterborough (October 26)

Organized by the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA), the third annual “Halloween in the Booro” event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. on October 26, 2024. Nearly 30 locally owned, independent businesses will be decked out for Halloween and hand out sweets to trick-or-treaters while also offering late-night shopping. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)
Organized by the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA), the third annual “Halloween in the Booro” event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. on October 26, 2024. Nearly 30 locally owned, independent businesses will be decked out for Halloween and hand out sweets to trick-or-treaters while also offering late-night shopping. (Photo courtesy of Peterborough DBIA)

For family-friendly fun in downtown Peterborough, the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) is presenting Halloween in the Booro from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 26.

The free event features spooky family fun including trick-or-treating and late-night shopping at nearly 30 downtown businesses, haunted characters stationed throughout the downtown to greet treat-or-treaters and shoppers, and a scavenger hunt for kids.

For more details, including a list of participating businesses and a trick-or-treating map, visit theboro.ca/halloween-in-the-boooro/.

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Haunting in Minden Hills (October 26)

The annual Haunting in Minden Hills is once again taking over the Minden Hills Cultural Centre (176 Bobcaygeon Rd, Minden) on Saturday, October 26 from noon to 6 p.m.

The full day includes pumpkin carving, a witch dance workshop, paranormal haunted house tour, costume parade, storytime, face painting, spooky games, and more.

Admission is by donation. Visit www.mindenhills.ca for more information.

 

Reel Creatures at The Claymore Pub & Table in Cobourg (October 26)

Film Access Northumberland will be screening two Canadian horror films (the short film "Storage Room B" and the feature film "Cult Hero") during Reel Creatures at The Claymore Pub & Table in Cobourg on October 26, 2024. (Posters courtesy of Film Access Northumberland)
Film Access Northumberland will be screening two Canadian horror films (the short film “Storage Room B” and the feature film “Cult Hero”) during Reel Creatures at The Claymore Pub & Table in Cobourg on October 26, 2024. (Posters courtesy of Film Access Northumberland)

On Saturday, October 26, join Film Access Northumberland at The Claymore Pub & Table (95 King Street W., Cobourg) for Reel Creatures, featuring the screening of two acclaimed Canadian horror films with in-person discussions. Enjoy popcorn and a pint from the pub through a pay-as-you-go menu accessible throughout the evening.

Beginning at 6:30 p.m., the horror fest will kick off with a screening of the short film Storage Room B, about two co-workers being locked at the office during a zombie apocalypse, which earned second runner-up spot for the Film Forward Award at the 2023 Eye2Eye Film Festival. Director Scott Dion Brown will then talk about some of the decisions he made, such as why he set the film in just one room and why he used only a single camera angle.

Next will be a screening of the feature film Cult Hero, about a control freak trying to save her hubby from an Owen Sound “wellness centre” by teaming up with a washed-up cult-buster. Director Jesse Thomas Cook and actress Liv Collis will both be in discussion following the screening.

Tickets cost $15 and can be booked in advance or at the door. Visit www.filmaccessnorthumberland.ca/reel-creatures for more information or to buy tickets.

 

Lindsay Little Theatre Halloween Party (October 26)

Join the Lindsay Little Theatre at the Lindsay Curling Club (18 Peel St., Lindsay) for a Halloween Party and Looney Auction in support of the community theatre at 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 26.

Show off your best Halloween costume for the chance to win the costume contest, get drinks from the licensed bar, participate in a thrilling auction for a cause, and enjoy live entertainment from Glenn Ottaway, Linda Brown, and Reece David.

Tickets for the fundraiser cost $20 and can be purchased at www.lindsaylittletheatre.com.

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“A Night at the Grand Ghoul Opry” at Bancroft Village Playhouse (October 30 – November 3)

Tweed & Company Theatre is staging the original production "A Night at the Grand Ghoul Opry" from October 30 to November 3, 2024 at the Bancroft Village Playhouse, featuring classic monsters and more coming together for a concert where they perform reimagined rock and country songs. (Graphic: Tweed & Company Theatre)
Tweed & Company Theatre is staging the original production “A Night at the Grand Ghoul Opry” from October 30 to November 3, 2024 at the Bancroft Village Playhouse, featuring classic monsters and more coming together for a concert where they perform reimagined rock and country songs. (Graphic: Tweed & Company Theatre)

Tweed & Company Theatre is bringing an original production to the stage at Bancroft Village Playhouse this Halloween season with A Night at the Grand Ghoul Opry.

The ghouls, ghosts, and monsters of classic literature are fed up with sharing the spotlight with Twilight vampires and zombies on streaming services, and decide to host their own concert. Frankenstein’s monster, Dracula, the Wolf Man, the Mummy, and more come together to bare their souls with reimagined country and rock songs.

The special Halloween event will see the whole theatre transformed with a pre-concert haunted house, along with a costume contest, adult trick-or-treating, themed drinks, and, of course, the hilarious and haunting music of the underworld.

A Night at the Grand Ghoul Opry runs nightly from Wednesday, October 30 to Saturday, November 2 at 7 p.m. with matinee 2 p.m. performances on October 31, November 2, and November 3. Tickets cost $38.50 for adults, $33.50 for seniors (65+), $25 for arts workers, and $23.50 for students and youth. Visit www.villageplayhouse.ca/a-night-at-the-grand-ghoul-opry for more information and tickets.

 

Spooky home display at 4 Payne Crescent in Port Hope (until October 31)

Residents of Payne Crescent in Port Hope have put on an impressive family-friendly spooky display for the Halloween season with sound and special effects operating every night during the week leading up to Halloween. The display includes a donation bin for items to be donated to the Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank's Port Hope location. (Photo courtesy of Laura Farmer)
Residents of Payne Crescent in Port Hope have put on an impressive family-friendly spooky display for the Halloween season with sound and special effects operating every night during the week leading up to Halloween. The display includes a donation bin for items to be donated to the Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank’s Port Hope location. (Photo courtesy of Laura Farmer)

One Port Hope family has gone above and beyond on their home decorations to show their love for Halloween. From witches and jack-o-lanterns to scarecrows and skeletons, there’s no shortage of spooky displays at 4 Payne Crescent.

Visitors are encouraged to drive by to enjoy the frightening sights and sounds, or get out of their vehicles and see what other spooky surprises await on the property. A great option for young kids and those who scare easily, the display includes nothing that jumps out or moves — aside from what might move in the wind, or from other spirits and forces that might be at play.

The fog, lighting, and music will be on display every night from 7 to 11 p.m. for the week leading up to Halloween. Just as with last year, on Halloween night, a new Victorian witches tea party will be set up in the garage to add to the display.

To give back to the community through their impressive display, the family is collecting donations for Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank’s Port Hope location.

LOCATED – Autistic Havelock teen Logan still missing after two weeks

18-year-old Logan was last seen in Havelock on October 13, 2024. (Family photo)

An autistic Havelock teen has still not been found two weeks after his family reported him missing, and a Facebook group set up by his mother called Help Find Logan to share information or sightings now has 7,400 members.

Logan is 18 years old, 5’6″ with a medium build, with short sandy brown hair and hazel eyes. He was last seen on Sunday, October 13 and there have been no confirmed sightings since.

“Logan has high functioning autism and some other mental health issues,” according to a Facebook post by his mother. “This is not the first time Logan has taken off but it’s usually only for 12-24 hrs and usually close by. He has been known to get lost sometimes while out. He may hide or run when seen. He does not have any social media or a cell phone.”

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According to his mother, Logan is possibly wearing a grey zip-up hoodie and black winter boots.

Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) issued a media release last Thursday (October 17) asking for the public’s help in finding Logan.

In her Facebook group, Logan’s mother notes that he may be hiding and asks people to check outbuildings, shelters, or abandoned buildings on their property.

“He may be anywhere by now,” she writes. “If he has made it to a town please keep an eye out in stores and near dumpsters.”

18-year-old Logan was last seen in Havelock on October 13, 2024. (Family photos)
18-year-old Logan was last seen in Havelock on October 13, 2024. (Family photos)
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Logan’s mother also notes that he had around $30 in change on him when he went missing, but that “he doesn’t quite understand the value of that change.”

His mother also points out that some old posts may be circulating on social media referring to an incident two years ago, when Logan went missing on October 21, 2022 when he was 16 years old and was found the following day.

Anyone who has seen Logan or has any information about his whereabouts is asked to call Peterborough County OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and to mention reference number E241382910. To submit an anonymous tip, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or visit stopcrimehere.ca.

 

This story, originally published on October 22, has been updated with the length of time Logan has been missing.

Peterborough’s ‘Porch Pirates for Good’ food drive returns October 26

Volunteers with "Porch Pirates for Good" will be driving around Peterborough on October 26, 2024 to collect donated items for Kawartha Food Share that residents leave on their front porches. In the last four years, the Porch Pirates for Good semi-annual food drives have brought in over 165,000 pounds of food and over $15,000 in monetary donations. (Photo: Kawartha Food Share)

Peterborough’s ‘Porch Pirates for Good’ will once again be raiding city porches on Saturday (October 26) for their 10th semi-annual porch food drive to help restock the dwindling shelves at Kawartha Food Share.

On Saturday morning, people are asked to leave a bag of non-perishable food items on their front porch. Beginning at 9 a.m., volunteers will drive around the city to 18 different neighbourhoods, collect the donated items, and deliver them to the Kawartha Food Share warehouse.

Organizers ask people to mark their bag of donated items as being for Porch Pirates for Good so volunteers can easily spot it from the street (you can download and print the flyer below if you don’t have one).

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While any non-perishable food items are appreciated, items in the greatest demand include peanut butter, canned tuna, canned vegetables and canned fruit, pasta and pasta sauce, canned pasta and packaged macaroni and cheese products (such as Alpha-getti, Kraft Dinner, and Chef Boyardee), breakfast cereal, and canned soup and canned stew.

Other needed food items include individually packaged school snacks for children (such as apple sauce, fruit cups, and chewy bars) and gluten-free items like pasta, cookies, and oats.

Non-food items that are needed include feminine hygiene products and diapers.

PDF: Porch Pirates for Good fall 2024 flyer
Porch Pirates for Good fall 2024 flyer

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Instead of donating food, you can also help by making a monetary donation — for every $1 donated, Kawartha Food Share can purchase up to $3 worth of food. Volunteers will be able to collect cheques or cash during on October 26, or you can donate online at kawarthafoodshare.com.

In the last four years, the Porch Pirates for Good food drives have brought in over 165,000 pounds of food and over $15,000 in monetary donations.

“The number of clients using food banks across Canada has reached an all-time high,” reads a media release from Kawartha Food Share. “The rising cost of food and supply chain shortages have affected Kawartha Food Share clients, donors, and their own purchasing power. The most vulnerable in our community need our support.”

Local family doctor ‘excited’ and ‘optimistic’ about new partnership with City of Peterborough

Peterborough Family Doctors' Think Tank founder Dr. Madura Sundareswaran (middle) with councillor Don Vassiliadis (left), who represents the City of Peterborough on the volunteer-based Peterborough Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee, and Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal. The city is collaborating with the think tank to support the city's new approach to physician recruitment and retention. (Photo courtesy of City of Peterborough)

Dr. Madura Sundareswaran is feeling energized in her quest to attract more family physicians like herself to Peterborough following a new collaboration with the municipality.

The City of Peterborough is partnering with the Peterborough Family Doctors’ Think Tank, which Sundareswaran founded, in support of the city’s new approach to physician recruitment and retention.

The think tank, a consulting and brainstorming group of independent family physicians, focuses on local advocacy and the grassroots-level changes needed to support doctor recruitment and retention from the perspective of family physicians.

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“We are excited,” Dr. Sundareswaran told kawarthaNOW. “We have hit the ground running and are already starting to see action items outlined in our report. I am feeling optimistic about the direction that the City of Peterborough is taking.”

“Our most recent report on recruitment and retention is helping to provide guidance on future priorities. All of this is definitely instilling confidence in what is to come.”

She said the think tank is providing guidance and making recommendations to the city’s new physician recruitment coordinator, Chantal Van Parys, and is partnering with the city on joint projects that support primary care in Peterborough.

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According to a media release from the City of Peterborough, the think tank’s advice “will be a critical part of the city’s efforts to highlight Peterborough as an ideal place to have a primary care career.”

“Peterborough has a great deal to offer prospective physicians so they can contribute meaningfully to various types of patient care while also living in a community in which they are valued as leaders,” said Mayor Jeff Leal in the release. “We’re thankful for the opportunity to work with local doctors through this partnership to understand the diverse practice types and evolving careers of family doctors.”

Dr. Sundareswaran emphasized the importance of this partnership.

“Peterborough is a fantastic place to live and work, and the think tank is excited about the city’s innovative and unique new family physician recruitment and retention strategy,” she said, referring to the city’s multi-pronged “Whole of Village” recruitment program that city council approved in April with a $580,000 budget until the end of 2025.

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“Family physicians should be part of the recruitment effort and, as such, we are proud to be working with the city to leverage the strengths of Peterborough and its local physicians,” Dr. Sundareswaran said. “We all share the common goal of ensuring that everyone in this community has access to a primary care provider, and we look forward to working together to achieve this goal.”

According to the release, the goal of the city’s physician recruitment efforts is to work towards fair and equitable access to primary care, a challenge faced by many communities across the province. As retirements and administrative burdens increase, “it is vital to not only expand access for new patients, but also to maintain care for those already with a family doctor.”

Van Parys, as the city’s new physician recruitment coordinator, is centralizing resources and now serves as the main contact for prospective physicians.

“We will be working closely with (Van Parys) and most often reporting to her directly,” Dr. Sundareswaran said. “This partnership is about leveraging the strengths of the city and its local physicians, but of course each is most familiar with our own unique portfolios. To have a dedicated person liaise between both groups helps is critical.”

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The doctor said the partnership came together collaboratively.

“Both the city and local physicians were looking for better ways to work together and ensure that an effective recruitment strategy was in place,” she explained.

“All of us recognize the importance of attachment to a primary care provider for all, so there was a real desire to find a way to work together towards achieving this goal. It truly was a collaborative effort.”

Over the coming months, the city will showcase what Peterborough can offer recent graduates and family physicians who have yet to settle into a practice.

Safran Electronics & Defense soars into the future of aerospace

At a time when the work landscape is unpredictable, a career in the aerospace sector in Peterborough and the Kawarthas is one you can count on. Based near the Peterborough Airport, Safran Electronics & Defense is proof of the longevity and career growth the industry offers, as the multinational company is continually expanding and working alongside start-ups to transition to carbon-neutral aviation, the future of the industry. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

With today’s unpredictable and constantly changing labour landscape, those entering the workforce are looking for jobs with a promising future. For those seeking work in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, the companies involved in the region’s rapidly growing aerospace sector offer many opportunities for long-term careers.

One such company is Safran Electronics & Defense. A France-based multinational high-technology group focused on sustainable air transport with 92,000 employees in 27 countries, Safran is a world leader in aircraft equipment manufacturing and operates in the aviation, defense, and space markets.

At its Canadian headquarters located just a short drive from the Peterborough Airport, Safran produces world-class products including aircraft landing gear, steering control units, engine controllers, and engine data management technology to record fault data.

Located just a short drive from the Peterborough Airport, Safran Electronics & Defense is one of many sites from the multinational high-technology group focused on sustainable air transport and one of the world's largest aircraft equipment manufacturers. The Peterborough site designs and manufactures world-class products including landing gear, steering control units, engine controllers, and engine data management units. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)
Located just a short drive from the Peterborough Airport, Safran Electronics & Defense is one of many sites from the multinational high-technology group focused on sustainable air transport and one of the world’s largest aircraft equipment manufacturers. The Peterborough site designs and manufactures world-class products including landing gear, steering control units, engine controllers, and engine data management units. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

“There are so many different fields in aerospace as a whole, whether the pilots themselves, the maintenance technicians that keep it all safe, or Safran that provides the original equipment,” says Ron James, Director of Program Management at Safran Electronics & Defense.

“Many opportunities exist across our business for technical grads, specifically for test technicians, industrialization, quality, electrical, software, and mechanical designers. We are invested in finding individuals with varying levels of experience who have new ideas and understand the latest technology across a variety of technical disciplines.”

While some of the jobs at Safran require highly skilled workers with aerospace training due to the regulations of the industry, there are also other roles supporting the company’s business operations.

As many companies move towards net zero emissions, Safran Electronics & Defense is working with start-up companies to develop the technology to support electric aircraft. For Director of Program Management Ron James, the transition to sustainable air transport ensures Safran's future as a leader in aviation electronics. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)
As many companies move towards net zero emissions, Safran Electronics & Defense is working with start-up companies to develop the technology to support electric aircraft. For Director of Program Management Ron James, the transition to sustainable air transport ensures Safran’s future as a leader in aviation electronics. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

“At our Peterborough site, we’re fairly equally split between manufacturing, engineering, and general support functions such as finance, IT, and program management, so there’s lots of general support business skillsets required as well,” James explains.

He adds there is also the opportunity for workers who have certain skills to receive in-house training.

“If you’re a technician that understands electronics, you can work with us in the aerospace industry. Workers can be trained to meet the aerospace standard, so there’s lots of opportunity for transferable skills. And once you’re here, you won’t want to leave the aerospace world. Once you’re bit by the aerospace bug, you’re stuck for life.”

Along with manufacturing and engineering jobs including test technicians, industrialization, quality, electrical, software, and mechanical designers, Safran Electronics & Defense in Peterborough employs workers in finance, information technology, and program management. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)
Along with manufacturing and engineering jobs including test technicians, industrialization, quality, electrical, software, and mechanical designers, Safran Electronics & Defense in Peterborough employs workers in finance, information technology, and program management. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

Not only are Safran employees able to work their way up from entry-level to senior management positions, but with sites around the globe, the company even provides opportunities for movement across locations. James himself began 34 years ago at what is now the Safran Landing Systems plant in Ajax.

Other Safran employees have transferred out of Ajax to Peterborough, and some have even relocated out of country, either to work in more senior positions or to better fit their personal lives.

“People have transferred all over the world,” James says. “There’s obviously lots of opportunities in France, but we also get a lot of employees that come here from France to get that international experience and learn from a different culture.”

Not only are Safran Electronics & Defense employees able to work their way up from entry-level to senior management positions, but with locations around the world, the company also provides additional opportunities. While some employees have moved between Safran's Ajax and Peterborough locations, others have moved as far as to the United States and France to align with their career and personal goals. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)
Not only are Safran Electronics & Defense employees able to work their way up from entry-level to senior management positions, but with locations around the world, the company also provides additional opportunities. While some employees have moved between Safran’s Ajax and Peterborough locations, others have moved as far as to the United States and France to align with their career and personal goals. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

With the company’s focus on sustainability in support of the aviation industry’s goal to become carbon-neutral by 2050, James notes there is nothing but expansion, growth, and opportunity on the horizon at Safran.

“Most aircraft and big commercial aircraft or business aircraft are driven by hydraulics, and the trend is moving away from that to more electric,” James explains. “To have more electric systems, you need more electronic control units. That’s what we’re really focusing our energies on right now: developing the technology to support electric aircraft to make them lighter and more fuel efficient.”

Safran is also currently working with companies on the development of electric air taxis, a trend that has been gaining a lot of momentum in the industry.

“We need to stay up to date and align our technologies to make sure that we’re supporting not just standard airplane production, but these new startups that are really pushing the envelope of the industry,” James says. “It’s really refreshing for the industry, but it’s also quite eye-opening for us to be involved in something outside the mainstream of aerospace development.”

Aircraft electronics company Safran is focused on sustainability, has taken steps to comply with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and supports the transition to carbon-neutral aviation by 2050. From new engine architectures and sustainable fuels to hybrid electric technologies, Safran is a world leader in sustainable manufacturing in the aerospace sector. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)
Aircraft electronics company Safran is focused on sustainability, has taken steps to comply with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and supports the transition to carbon-neutral aviation by 2050. From new engine architectures and sustainable fuels to hybrid electric technologies, Safran is a world leader in sustainable manufacturing in the aerospace sector. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

With Safran Electronics & Defense on pace for a record year in sales and competing on the world stage when it comes to design and manufacturing, James notes that while the Peterborough site was “homegrown” before turning into what it is today, it remains the best place for Safran to continue to expand its Canadian operations – including a possible future expansion to the Peterborough Airport.

“We’re actually running out of space in our current facilities, so moving over to the airport might be an opportunity for us in the future as we expand and continue to grow,” James explains. “It’s just around the corner from us, so it doesn’t change anybody’s commute and it’s a good fit for our work in the aerospace sector.”

Kyle Bruce, the Manager of Airport Administration at the Peterborough Airport, agrees. Since launching the airport development program in 2010, the airport now supports 22 businesses and has seen the number of jobs double from 251 to more than 500, and GDP grow even more, from $40 million to $90 million.

“The presence of a vibrant business hub at Peterborough Airport also stimulates the local economy, encouraging the development of ancillary services,” Bruce says. “This economic growth translates into a broader range of employment opportunities and supports overall career progression across different industries.”

With Safran Electronics & Defense on pace for a record year in sales and competing on the world stage when it comes to design and manufacturing, the company is running out of space in its current facilities and is considering a possible future expansion to the nearby Peterborough Airport. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)
With Safran Electronics & Defense on pace for a record year in sales and competing on the world stage when it comes to design and manufacturing, the company is running out of space in its current facilities and is considering a possible future expansion to the nearby Peterborough Airport. (Photo: Safran Electronics & Defense)

As for James, he sees the potential for both businesses and job seekers wanting to participate in the tremendous growth of the aerospace sector in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

“The future here is huge, not just for Safran, but for other companies in the sector and for those working in them,” he predicts.

For more information on Safran Electronics & Defense, visit safran-group.com/countries/canada. Explore more training and employment opportunities at the Peterborough Airport at peterborough.ca/en/doing-business/airport-services.aspx.

 

This branded editorial is one of a series created in partnership with Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.

Habitat for Humanity celebrates completion of Leahy’s Lane development in Peterborough

Through Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR), 12 families (including Derrick and his daughter Maelyn, holding the sold sign) have achieved affordable homeownership of units at 21 Leahy's Lane in Peterborough. The non-profit organization held a dedication ceremony on October 20, 2024, that was attended by the families, dignitaries, project partners, and supporters. (Photo courtesy of Habitat PKR)

Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) welcomed 12 families to their new homes at 21 Leahy’s Lane in Peterborough during a dedication ceremony on Sunday (October 20).

The 12-unit affordable condo building of 11 two-bedroom units and a single one-bedroom unit, which was completed this year, is the second and final phase of Habitat PKR’s Leahy’s Lane development. The first phase, a 41-unit condo building at 33 Leahy’s Lane, was completed in April 2022.

The Leahy’s Lane development was the first of its kind for Habitat for Humanity across Canada. Habitat PKR, whose previous home-building efforts focused on semi-detached or fully detached homes, recognized that a new approach was required to address the housing crisis and lack of affordable homes.

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“This is a key milestone in of Habitat PKR’s ongoing mission to help families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership,” reads a media release from Habitat PKR.

Each of the units at at 21 Leahy’s Lane is fully complete with in-suite appliances including a fridge, dishwasher, washer and dryer, and stove. The energy-efficient condo units will help owners save on utility costs.

One of those new owners is Mohamed, who will be moving into his new home with his wife and five-year-old son. At Sunday’s dedication ceremony, he shared how the opportunity for affordable homeownership through Habitat PKR will empower his family by providing them with a stable space for his son to grow up in, and by giving them financial security and stability for the future.

The 12-unit affordable condo building at 21 Leahy's Lane in Peterborough is the second and final phase of a multi-residential development by Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) at Leahy's Lane, which also includes a 41-unit condo building at 33 Leahy's Lane that was completed in April 2022. The non-profit organization held a dedication ceremony on October 20, 2024, that was attended by the families, dignitaries, project partners, and supporters. (Photo courtesy of Habitat PKR)
The 12-unit affordable condo building at 21 Leahy’s Lane in Peterborough is the second and final phase of a multi-residential development by Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) at Leahy’s Lane, which also includes a 41-unit condo building at 33 Leahy’s Lane that was completed in April 2022. The non-profit organization held a dedication ceremony on October 20, 2024, that was attended by the families, dignitaries, project partners, and supporters. (Photo courtesy of Habitat PKR)

“If you had asked me eight years ago whether I would ever own a home, I would have said, ‘No, never.’,” Mohamed said. “But today, standing here, it feels like a dream come true for my family and me.”

With the completion of the two phases of the Leahy’s Lane development, 53 local families have been able to achieve affordable homeownership through Habitat PKR’s program, which requires no down payment and caps mortgage payments at no more than a maximum of 30 per cent of the homeowner’s gross income. To be eligible, a homeowner must have an annual household income between $30,000 to $80,000 and have a need for affordable housing.

“Homeownership isn’t just about providing shelter — it’s about giving families the foundation they need to thrive and build a better future,” said Habitat PKR CEO Susan Zambonin. “The families moving into these homes are gaining a hand-up, not a hand-out, into the security and financial stability they need to thrive.”

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Zambonin thanked the Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation and Kawartha Credit Union for their support of Habitat PKR, as well as the federal government, which has made a total funding commitment of $4.75 million to Habitat PKR projects, including the Leahy’s Lane development, through the Affordable Housing Fund under the National Housing Strategy.

Along with Zambonin and new homeowner Mohamed, speakers at Sunday’s dedication ceremony included Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal, Habitat PKR board chair Hope Lee and Habitat for Humanity Canada board director Mehdi Nezarati, Peterborough-Kawartha MP Michelle Ferrari and MPP Dave Smith, Lessa Issa of Kawartha Credit Union, Leahy’s Lane condo board president Ashley Doust, and Habitat PKR communications and marketing manager Holly O’Connor.

Attendees were given the opportunity to tour 21 Leahy’s Lane, including a staged unit with furniture and décor from Habitat PKR’s ReStores.

The 12-unit affordable condo building at 21 Leahy's Lane in Peterborough includes 11 two-bedroom units and a single one-bedroom unit with in-suite appliances including a fridge, dishwasher, washer and dryer, and stove. At the dedication ceremony hosted by Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) on October 20, 2024, attendees were given the opportunity to tour a staged unit with furniture and décor from Habitat PKR's ReStores. (Photo courtesy of Habitat PKR)
The 12-unit affordable condo building at 21 Leahy’s Lane in Peterborough includes 11 two-bedroom units and a single one-bedroom unit with in-suite appliances including a fridge, dishwasher, washer and dryer, and stove. At the dedication ceremony hosted by Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) on October 20, 2024, attendees were given the opportunity to tour a staged unit with furniture and décor from Habitat PKR’s ReStores. (Photo courtesy of Habitat PKR)

Proceeds from sales of items at the three ReStores, located in Peterborough, Lakefield, and Lindsay, cover all the operational costs of Habitat PKR so that all financial donations to the non-profit organization go directly towards building affordable homes.

“While today’s dedication is a moment to celebrate, it is also a reminder that our work is far from finished,” Zambonin said, noting that Habitat PKR received 316 requests for affordable housing in 2023 alone.

“The housing crisis persists and the demand for affordable housing in the Peterborough and Kawartha Region continues to grow. As the leading developer of affordable housing in our community, we are committed to meeting this need through continued construction and community support.”

For more information about Habitat PKR and how to get involved or donate, visit www.habitatpkr.ca.

Peterborough woman facing arson charge following Friday night fire

As well as fire and emergency response, Peterborough Fire Services provides public fire and safety education and fire prevention, investigation, and Fire Code enforcement. (Photo: Peterborough Fire Services)

A 55-year-old Peterborough woman is facing arson charges following a fire on Friday night (October 18).

At around 8:50 p.m., Peterborough Fire Services responded to multiple calls about a Stewart Street residence that was on fire.

Upon arriving, fire crews found the residence was fully engulfed with fire. They determined all occupants were safely out of the residence and aggressively attacked the fire, bringing it under control. Damage is estimated at $200,000.

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Peterborough police were also called to the fire. Through investigation, they learned the fire had been deliberately set by a tenant.

As a result, police arrested a 55-year-old Peterborough woman and charged her with arson with disregard for human life. The accused woman was held in custody and appeared in court on Saturday.

Peterborough police and the Ontario Fire Marshal are continuing an investigation into the fire. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 705-876-1122 ext. 555. To submit an anonymous tip, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or visit stopcrimehere.ca.

Third annual Haliburton County Housing Summit will explore housing needs and potential solutions

Attendees at the second annual Haliburton County Housing Summit at the Minden Hills Community Centre in April 2023. The third annual summit, co-hosted by Places For People and Haliburton County, will take place at the Minden Hills Community Centre on October 24, 2024. (Photo: Places for People / Facebook)

During an upcoming summit in the Haliburton Highlands, Places For People is bringing together various stakeholders to explore the region’s housing needs and potential solutions.

Places For People, in conjunction with the County of Haliburton, is co-hosting the third annual Haliburton County Housing Summit from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday (October 24) at the Minden Hills Community Centre, located at 55 Parkside St. in Minden.

Organizers say this year’s summit will recognize the progress being made to create the housing needed by the people who live and work in the county, with the target audience for the summit “anyone who wants to do something about our housing challenge,” Places for People founder Fay Martin told kawarthaNOW.

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“Everyone can make a contribution,” Martin said. “Only if everyone puts their shoulder to the wheel will we accomplish what’s needed. Hopefully we will see developers who want to be part of the solution and employers trying to find ways of housing their employees.”

“Everyone is welcome, including members of the public who want to see change and help make it.”

The day will begin with a welcome from Liz Danielson, warden of Haliburton County, and Bob Carter, mayor of Minden Hills, who have provided use of the facility for free, along with Patti Tallman, CEO of Haliburton County Development Corporation, which is funding the event.

As with previous summits, the format will open and close with experts from outside of Haliburton and feature two local panels on housing densification and worker housing.

“We’ll learn about the work similar communities are doing that we might adapt and explore new models and strategies with local leaders, other experts, and community members,” a media release noted.

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What would be the best possible outcome of the summit?

“Action,” said Sherry Lawr, Places for People’s co-chair of marketing and communications. “What we’d love to see is, following the summit, all the potential partners and stakeholders continue the momentum we will no doubt gain and move the mountain towards action.”

“There is a lot of goodwill in this community and many like ours. We just need to find ways to say yes — yes, we can.”

Guest speakers for the day are Claire de Souza and Joe Gallivan.

Claire de Souza is housing development coordinator for the City of Collingwood and the city’s first “concierge,” a newly created position designed to facilitate a pro-active approach to attracting, supporting, and streamlining building of the kind of housing the city’s community needs, including accessory dwelling units as well as larger projects.

Joe Gallivan, senior planner with the County of Frontenac, will explain how the creation of a municipal utility corporation helped the municipality address the cost and inefficiency of insuring private water and wastewater systems.

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The first of two panel discussions will be on the challenges of finding housing for workers.

“Workers need private transportation, a sturdy vehicle, and the rate of pay they receive tends not to account for the cost in efficiency of how spread out and unreliable the work is,” said Martin, who will moderate the panel. “Even well-paid professionals, such as tradespeople and senior-level staff, struggle to find appropriate housing, even if it’s affordable.”

Algonquin Highlands Township councillor Sabrina Richards, owner of Big Hawk Lake Marina, is one of the three panellists. She will share her experience as a business owner who feels she has no choice but to provide housing for her employees.

Xavier Masse from the Haliburton School of the Arts will bring attendees up to speed on the school’s new student residence, and consider if and how adding this resource will impact the local housing picture for workers.

Gary Dyke, CAO of Haliburton County, will provide an update on a proposal to use county-owned property for an integrated housing project the came out of discussions from the 2023 summit.

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The second of the two panel discussions will explore how small housing densification projects are becoming a factor in meeting housing needs.

Developer Richard Carson, owner of Hot Pond Enterprises Corp., will describe the process of working with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to fund an 18-unit housing project, which will include affordable housing, currently underway in Haliburton Village.

Susan Zambonin, Habitat For Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, will discuss how the organization’s successful medium-density development in Peterborough could be adapted for application in Haliburton County on one or more properties currently under consideration.

Kirstin Maxwell, CEO of Kawartha Lakes Haliburton Housing Corporation, will describe recent progress on projects in the Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton.

Those who interested in attending the October 24 summit are asked to RSVP by emailing Fay Martin at fay@placesforpeople.ca. For more information about Places For People, visit www.placesforpeople.ca

Slater the red-tailed hawk being treated for rodenticide poisoning at Minden’s Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary

A red-tailed hawk named Slater is being treated for rodenticide poisoning at the Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary in Minden. When picked up on the side of the road, Slater was severely underweight, hardly able to stand, and suffering from internal bleeding. According to the organization Rodenticide Free Ontario, rodenticide poisoning has become an increasing common concern among wildlife, pets, and even humans. (Photo courtesy of Allison Hansen)

When a driver spotted a red-tailed hawk sitting in the same spot near Havelock hours after seeing him the first time, he knew something was not right.

After being taken to the Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary in Minden, the bird of prey (who was named Slater) was found to be bloodied, underweight, and suffering from rodenticide toxicity — poison that can affect not just targeted rodents but also birds of prey, wildlife, pets, and even humans.

“We’re in a biodiversity crisis here and we need to really take this seriously,” says Allison Hansen, co-founder and campaign director at Rodenticide Free Ontario (RFO), a citizen-led organization dedicated to protecting wildlife, pets, and people from the risks of rodenticides.

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A resident of Minden Hills and a long-time animal advocate, Hansen founded the campaign in 2021 after her sister’s dog was poisoned by rodenticides. Shortly after, her own dog died from secondary exposure caused by the consumption of a poisoned animal.

“When she got sick, I started to do as much research as possible and found how horribly ineffective, dangerous, and inhumane these products are,” says Hansen.

To launch RFO, Hansen gained support from the Defend Them All Foundation which helped champion the moratorium on getting certain products banned in British Columbia. RFO advocates for a province-wide ban on rodenticides by working with municipalities such as Pickering, which became the province’s first to pass a policy limiting the use of “rat poison” on city property.

“The issue with these poisons, in particular the anticoagulants, is that they don’t kill the intended target immediately, so it takes several days for them to die,” says Hansen. “In that time frame, they are observed going back and forth to feed on this poison multiple times, spending more time out in the open and dying slow and painful deaths, which makes them easier (for animals such as wildlife and pets) to prey upon (them).”

PDF: Rodenticide Free Ontario Fact Sheet
Rodenticide Free Ontario Fact Sheet

Hansen explains that these ingested poisons can remain in the liver for upwards of a year. While a predator might not get a lethal dose from feeding on one poisoned rat, upon continuing to consume several, their immune system will continue to be suppressed, making the animal more susceptible to mange.

“Rehab centres are seeing a lot of cases of extreme mange coming in and it’s affecting reproductive success, hunting success, and then also making them more susceptible to vehicle strikes and window strikes,” she adds. “Part of the issue is (rodenticides) don’t address the root cause of an infestation. By simply placing poisons in and around your home, you’re still not sealing entryways or removing attractants.”

Through RFO, Hansen hears stories from people around Ontario who have had their dogs get into poisons, whether by ingesting it themselves or by secondary exposure from rats and other rodents. Rodenticides can also pose a danger to children.

“They’re brightly coloured and they’re also flavoured to make them attractive, so children can often mistake them for a toy or candy,” Hansen says. “Even though the bait boxes are supposed to be tamper proof, they’re not.”

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Monika Melichar, founder and president of Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary, estimates that rodenticide poisoning affects around 10 per cent of the birds of prey that are admitted into the Minden sanctuary.

Though not often the case, Slater was quickly diagnosed with rodenticide poisoning as he was found to not only be largely underweight, but also to have blood in his mouth, in his stool, and under his skin. Currently, he is housed in an oxygen chamber to assist with his breathing and, to help reverse the damage of the anticoagulants, he is getting daily vitamin K infusions which could last anywhere from two weeks to up to a month.

“That’s really the only protocol that we know is effective,” says Melichar. “It’s a longer-term treatment because this isn’t just an instant cure, but we hope to flush out the toxins.”

After being found on the side of the road near Havelock with rodenticide toxicity, Slater the red-tailed hawk is being treated at Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary with Vitamin K injections, one of the only known effective treatments to manage and treat bleeding caused by anticoagulants such as warfarin. (Photo courtesy of Allison Hansen)
After being found on the side of the road near Havelock with rodenticide toxicity, Slater the red-tailed hawk is being treated at Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary with Vitamin K injections, one of the only known effective treatments to manage and treat bleeding caused by anticoagulants such as warfarin. (Photo courtesy of Allison Hansen)

“It’s a long shot because this stuff has been accumulating in him for a while, as he would have gotten into this via eating rodents,” adds Hansen.

That, says Melichar, is the greatest concern. While Slater has shown progress in the past few days of treatment, it’s unclear whether more damage has been done to his liver or other organs from the long-term exposure. She adds that it doesn’t help that migratory time is approaching for red-tailed hawks.

“Mid-October to early November is usually the peak time to migrate so he is on the cusp,” she says. “If we can pull him through and get him out of here by mid-November, we would be very happy.”

Melichar predicts that caring for patients with rodenticide costs the sanctuary close to $1,000 per week, including the medication and critical care diets needed for poisoned animals.

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The good news is that, on Saturday (October 19), Slater managed to eat solid food on his own for this first time and continues to show signs of gaining strength.

“He is still considered critical, but we’re staying positive that we will be able to save him,” Melichar says. “He is definitely improving, so that’s a good sign.”

To support Slater’s care, donations can be made to the Woodlands Wildlife Sanctuary at www.woodlandswildlifesanctuary.ca/donate. For more information on alternatives to using rodenticides, follow RFO on Facebook.

Both drivers killed in two-vehicle collision early Sunday morning on County Road 25 north of Warkworth

Police closed County Road 25 between County Road 35 and Concession Road 8 in the Municipality of Trent Hills following a two-vehicle collision just after midnight on October 20, 2024 that claimed the lives of both drivers. (Photo: Northumberland OPP)

A Douro-Dummer man and an Oshawa woman are dead following a two-vehicle collision early Sunday morning (October 20) on County Road 25 north of Warkworth in the Municipality of Trent Hills.

Just after midnight, Northumberland Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), emergency medical services, and the Trent Hills fire department responded to a report of a collision between two passenger vehicles on County Road 25, south of County Road 35, around nine kilometres north of Warkworth.

The driver of one of the vehicles, a 41-year-old man from Douro-Dummer Township in Peterborough County, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle, a 32-year-old woman from Oshawa, was transported to hospital where she was pronounced dead. There were no other occupants of the vehicles.

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The Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario was notified and attended the scene.

County Road 25 has been closed for several hours between County Road 35 and Concession Road 8 for the police investigation into the collision, which is ongoing.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed or has video/dash cam footage or information relating to the collision, and who has not yet spoken with police, to contact the Northumberland OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

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