Phil Smith, owner of the River's Edge on Front in Hastings, is one of 19 entrepreneurs in Northumberland County who are collectively receiving $44,500 in micro grants through Starter Company Growth Program, administered by the Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN) with funding from the Ontario government. (Photo: BECN)
The owner of a retail store in Hastings can do more to promote his small business, courtesy of a recent funding boost he received from the Business & Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN).
Phil Smith, owner of River’s Edge on Front, is one of the recipients of recent micro grants provided through the BECN’s Starter Company Growth Program.
“The Starter Company grant through BECN has helped me invest in key marketing tools to drive more local traffic to River’s Edge on Front,” Smith said in a media release. “With support for signage, advertising, and digital improvements, we’re expanding our reach beyond the summer season and building stronger connections in the Hastings community.”
The River’s Edge on Front is one of 19 local small businesses that are sharing a total of $44,500 in micro grants aimed at fuelling their business growth through the Starter Company Growth Program, which is funded by the Ontario government.
Advertisement - content continues below
The program is designed to support small businesses throughout Northumberland County with a blend of virtual and in person training, one-on-one mentoring, business skill development, and networking opportunities.
Through this program, participants gain additional tools, knowledge, and support to expand their entrepreneurial skillsets and successful participants receive up to $3,000 grant funding “to help take their ventures to the next level,” the BECN noted.
“We saw a marginal increase in applications over 2024 numbers,” Kate Campbell, director of communications for Northumberland County, told kawarthaNOW.
“While perhaps not directly attributable to current trade challenges, there’s no question local businesses are facing broad economic pressures including rising costs, supply chain uncertainty, and the need for added support to remain competitive. All of these are potential factors contributing to the uptick in applications.”
Advertisement - content continues below
This year’s cohort features a mix of 19 entrepreneurs spanning a wide range of industries that reflect the “vibrancy and innovation” of Northumberland County’s small business community, according to the release. Approved businesses represent sectors listed below.
Food and beverage, such as cafés, cideries, and packaged goods, including K Okay Café and Roasters and Centre & Main Chocolate (both in Warkworth), Arrowmatic Foods and Artsichy Cupcake Florist (both in Cobourg), and Rice Lake Hard Cider in Baltimore.
Retail, such as fashion, giftware, specialty foods, and pet supplies, including River’s Edge on Front in Hastings, Spark – Smart Toys for Cool Kids in Cobourg, and the Edit Boutique in Warkworth.
Health and wellness, such as spa services, foot care, holistic nutrition, and fitness, including Mindful Meridians PEMF and Float Centre, The Foot Health Centre, Nourish Boutique Spa, Avery’s Body by Design, and Rajni Naim CNP (all in Cobourg), and Body Love Fitness in Campbellford.
Professional and digital services, such as marketing, branding, and home organizing, including PNG Marketing in Campbellford, Vanessa West + Co. in Cobourg, and Home Handlers in Warkworth.
Agriculture, such as locally grown produce and farm-based operations, includin Dirty Dog Cider Company and Unique Eats & Garden Treats Market Farm in Colborne.
Education, such as nature-based and wellness-integrated programming, including Child of the Wild in Colborne.
Advertisement - content continues below
“The Starter Company grant through BECN came at a critical moment as I transitioned both Dirty Dog Cider and Unique Eats & Garden Treats into a new year-round location on my farm,” said owner Lori Latendresse.
“The funding helped enhance our on-site experience through key improvements like customer parking, outdoor shelters, and accessible amenities, creating a more welcoming space for visitors and setting the stage for future growth.”
The Starter Company Growth Program is open to small business owners located in Northumberland County that have been in operation for at least six months and are looking to expand their businesses. The program accepts new participants twice per year, with the next intake expected to open in fall 2025.
“It’s a pleasure to work with such passionate and driven local entrepreneurs through the Starter Company Growth Program,” said Kailyn Coupland, BECN business development coordinator.
“There are so many diverse products, services, and experiences available right here in Northumberland. Through programs like this, and with the continued support of residents who choose to shop, dine, and invest locally, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant local economy.
“As we celebrate local success stories like these, it is important to remember that every dollar we spend locally makes a difference,” Coupland added.
Advertisement - content continues below
The BECN said it is working closely with the Prosper In Northumberland Buy Local initiative to encourage community members to redirect a portion of their average monthly spending to local businesses, which is aimed at helping small businesses continue to grow and thrive in Northumberland County.
In addition to the Starter Company Growth Program, the BECN also provides services and programs and hosts events designed to support entrepreneurs across all stages and categories of business.
To learn more about the Starter Company Growth Program and the BECN’s other programs and services, visit becn.ca.
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) and Our Daughters' Home broke ground on an accessible duplex, to be built on Sophia Street in Peterborough East City for seven adult women with developmental disabilities, on July 9, 2025. Pictured from left to right are Our Daughters' Home treasurer Debby Donaghy, Peterborough city councillor Matt Crowley, Donaghy's daughter Michelle (one of the seven women who will live in the home), Habitat PKR board chair Hope Lee, and Peterborough MP Emma Harrison with two of her children. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Seven women with developmental disabilities will soon have their own permanent home in Peterborough thanks to a partnership between Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) and Our Daughters’ Home, a charity founded by the women’s parents.
On Wednesday morning (July 9), Habitat PKR hosted a well-attended ground-breaking ceremony at a vacant lot on Sophia Street in a quiet East City residential neighbourhood near the Rotary Trail, the future site of the affordable housing project where an accessible duplex will be built with 24/7 support for the seven women.
“We’re here today to break ground, not just literally but symbolically too,” said Holly O’Connor, Habitat PKR’s communications and marketing manager, who emceed the event.
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
“This accessible duplex being built in partnership with Our Daughters’ Home will soon become a safe and stable home for seven women with developmental disabilities,” O’Connor said. “This build signifies dignity, independence, and peace of mind — not only for these women, but for the families who love them and have been looking forward to this day for a very long time.”
“At Habitat PKR, we believe that affordable home ownership should be within reach for everyone. That’s why we work with partners like Our Daughters’ Home to support those who are so often left out of the housing market. As with every Habitat for Humanity build, this build takes a village. It takes neighbours, donors, volunteers, and community champions coming together to make it as possible.”
Along with representatives from Habitat PKR and Our Daughters’ Home, speakers at the event included Peterborough city councillor Matt Crowley on behalf of Mayor Jeff Leal and Peterborough MP Emma Harrison, who attended with two of her three children. Also in attendance were city councillor Joy Lachica along with Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith, who arrived late due to traffic.
Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region board chair Hope Lee addresses attendees at a ground-breaking ceremony on July 9, 2025 for an accessible duplex to be built on Sophia Street in Peterborough East City for seven adult women with developmental disabilities. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Habitat PKR’s board chair Hope Lee addressed the crowd and explained what makes this build different from other Habitat projects.
“It’s an honour to be here with you today in front of what right now is just an empty lot, but very soon will become a space and something very extraordinary,” Lee said.
“Less than a year ago, our (Habitat PKR) board sat down and made a very important decision. We decided to expand how we live out our mission. For over two decades, we’ve focused on building safe, decent, and affordable homes for local families and individuals. But we asked ourselves, what more can we do? The answer was clear: we could use our tools, our experience, and our partnerships to support other local organizations doing vital work. We could help them build homes for people who are often left behind.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
“Enter this powerful new partnership that we have with Our Daughters’ Home,” Lee said. “Peterborough is in the midst of a housing crisis. We have had one of the lowest vacancy rates in Ontario and some of the highest rental costs in the country. For many people, even those with modest incomes, owning a home feels out of reach.”
“But today, I want to talk about the people who are rarely included in that conversation: women with developmental disabilities — women who not only face those same impossible odds of home ownership, but are navigating a system that was never designed for them in the first place.”
“Too often, they’re left out and they’re forgotten when we talk about housing solutions — but not today. Today, we break ground on safe, accessible, and permanent housing, a place where these women can live with stability, independence, and a sense of belonging in a community that they know and love. A place where they can remain close to their families who have supported them so fiercely and tirelessly.”
Peterborough MP Emma Harrison, with one of her children, addresses attendees at a ground-breaking ceremony on July 9, 2025 for an accessible duplex to be built on Sophia Street in Peterborough East City for seven adult women with developmental disabilities. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Next up was Peterborough MP Emma Harrison, who said she was honoured to “celebrate this project that represents inclusion and community.”
“This initiative is more than just a building — it’s about creating a home for seven women that provides them with dignity and independence, while still allowing them to be a part of a close-knit, supportive community,” MP Harrison said. “The partnership between (Habitat PKR) and Our Daughters’ Home gives me so much hope for the future of this community. To the amazing people and organizations that make this project possible, thank you and congratulations — this day would not be possible without all of you.”
“As we break ground today, I know we are planting the seeds of independence, joy, and community. Let’s celebrate this groundbreaking moment together with pride, with purpose, and with the shared belief that everyone deserves a safe and supportive place to call home.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
Attendees also heard from Peterborough city councillor Matt Crowley, who spoke from his personal experience about the challenges faced by aging parents with children who have disabilities.
“As a parent, I’ve had the privilege of watching my daughter grow into a remarkable young woman,” he said. “She lives with cerebral palsy and faces significant mobility and speech challenges. But, like any parent, I’ve always hoped that she would have the opportunity to live with dignity, security, and as much independence as possible.”
“Now as I get moderately older, these hopes have become more urgent questions start to weigh a little heavier. What will happen when I’m no longer able to provide the same support? Where will she live? Who will be there to ensure that she’s safe and cared for, but also respected, included, and empowered? This development begins to answer those questions. It offers more than just bricks and mortar or a place to live — it offers peace of mind. It offers independence and it offers a future.”
“What’s being built here today is not only a home but a promise — a promise that our children, regardless of ability, deserve spaces where they can thrive. A promise that families like mine don’t have to carry their fears alone.”
Our Daughters’ Home treasurer Debby Donaghy addresses attendees at a ground-breaking ceremony on July 9, 2025 for an accessible duplex to be built on Sophia Street in Peterborough East City for seven adult women with developmental disabilities. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Our Daughters’ Home was founded in by Jane Bischoff in 2023, when her daughter Jenny — who has been diagnosed with moderate autism — was 30 years old. Seeking a female-only group home setting for Jenny out of concerns for her safety and security, Bishcoff connected with other parents and they began looking for real estate options for a permanent home in the Peterborough area and possible partnerships with groups such as Habitat PKR.
“Families that have done this in the past have taken 10 years to do it — every two weeks they met for 10 years,” Bishcoff told kawarthaNOW at the time. “We all decided, no, that’s not happening. We don’t have 10 years.”
Debby Donaghy, who is treasurer of Our Daughters’ Home and the mother of Michelle, one of the women who will live in the duplex, told attendees that she put her daughter’s name on a waiting list for a group home when Michelle was 16 years old, “knowing that there would be some day that I would not be able to look after her.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
“That was 22 years ago,” Donaghy pointed out, adding that 28,000 adults in Ontario are waiting for supportive housing. “That number goes up each year, but the number of placements goes down.”
“In 2023, I read this article in kawarthaNOW which featured Jane and Jenny, our founder, wanting to create a home for women. I contacted her immediately and have been part of this band of parents ever since. We’ve learned so much over the last two years and are a fierce bunch and, with lots of determination, we have learned how to do incorporation, letter writing, grant proposals, fundraising, web development, business plans, and recently we got our charitable status designation. We have accomplished in three years which most have taken 10 to 12 years.”
“We could not have done this without the partnership of (Habitat PKR), and we will be forever grateful. This is not a temporary or transitional placement, but a secure, long-term residence where these women can live with dignity, independence, and stability for life. For years, our daughters have been safe at home with us. Now, we must ensure they always have a safe home — one that will last a lifetime with the care they need to thrive.”
Attendees celebrate during a ground-breaking ceremony on July 9, 2025 for an accessible duplex to be built on Sophia Street in Peterborough East City for seven adult women with developmental disabilities. The project is a partnership between Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region (Habitat PKR) and Our Daughters’ Home, whose founder Jane Bischoff is pictured at the far left. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Donaghy thanked donors to Our Daughters’ Home including a “generous” quarterly donation from Sullivan Law, the Buckhorn District Lions Club, Kawartha Credit Union, a grant from the Peterborough Foundation, Sloan’s Respite, “and many, many others who have donated to help offset our mortgage, though we still have a very long way to go.”
She added that Our Daughters’ Home is hosting a benefit dance on Saturday, August 2 at the Peterborough Holiday Inn. Tickets are available at www.ourdaughtershome.ca.
As for the Sophia Street build, Habitat PKR expects construction to begin later this summer. Fundraising efforts are continuing to bring the project to completion, including Habitat PKR’s “Win Big, Build Homes” 50/50 draw, with all proceeds going directly to Habitat PKR build projects, including the Sophia Street build. Tickets will be available to purchase at habitatpeterborough.ca.
This story has been updated to include a donor for Our Daughters’ Home that was inadvertently omitted from the story (the Peterborough Foundation). With files from Megan Gallant.
Claudia MacDonald is the owner and founder of Heritage Blooms U Pick Flower Farm in the Township of Asphodel-Norwood. She, her husband Ben, and their three children moved to the farm in 2021 to raise grass-fed cattle for Ben's family business, Heritage Cattle Co., but Claudia was in search of ways to beautify the 96-acre property while exploring her creative side. It led to the establishment of 12 no-till beds which now grow hundreds of varieties of flowers used to make curated bouquets and for pick-your-own experiences. (Photo courtesy of Heritage Blooms U Pick Flower Farm)
When you think of agriculture in Peterborough County, you’ll likely think about harvesting food crops or raising livestock. But Heritage Blooms U Pick Flower Farm in Norwood is one of a growing number of county farms that have expanded into floriculture — growing and marketing flowers and plants for home décor, gardening, and celebrations — an agricultural sector that’s valued at around $785 million in Ontario.
After years of wanting to own a family farm, Claudia MacDonald and her husband Ben and their three children moved to their 96-acre farm in the Township of Asphodel-Norwood, one of eight townships that make up Peterborough County, in 2021. The family purchased the farm to raise grass-fed cattle and operate a farm store for Ben’s family business, Heritage Cattle Co. However, Claudia — who is a painter — wanted to bring something beautiful to the property that would also satisfy her creative desires, and decided to grow flowers.
Recognizable from its small-screen debut on the first episode of Bell Fibe TV1’s County Blooms in 2023, today Heritage Blooms U-Pick’s bread and butter is its varieties of dahlias, though you can also find zenias, cosmos, amaranth, sunflowers, strawflowers, eucalyptus, lisianthus, celosias, and many more varieties of blooms across 12 no-till flower beds. The farm obtains its seed from Belmont Farmstead, a nursery in Havelock, and from Unicorn Blooms in Omemee.
Located at 3333 Highway 7, Heritage Blooms U Pick Flower Farm offers a roadside farm stand where guests can stop in for curated arrangements of beautiful bouquets made up of any variety of the locally grown cut, fresh florals. Since the farm is shared with Heritage Cattle Co., an on-site farm store also sells grass-fed beef products, honey, maple syrup, eggs, and more.
From varieties of dahlias to cosmos, sunflowers, amaranth, zinnias, and so much more across 12 no-till flower beds, Heritage Blooms U Pick Flower Farm offers a unique agritourism experience in the Township of Asphodel-Norwood. Located on the same property as Heritage Cattle Co., the farm features a roadside flower stand, offers cut-your-own flower experiences beginning at the end of July, hosts various workshops, and provides bouquet bars for showers, parties, weddings, and other events. (Photos courtesy of Heritage Blooms U Pick Flower Farm)
For a memorable evening, the farm also offers cut-your-own flower experiences beginning at the end of July or early August right until the first frost. You can fill up a mason jar or large bucket with any colour, size, and variety of flowers to create your own one-of-a-kind bouquet to take home.
Many brides also choose the pick-your-own option as a more affordable and experiential way to pick their florals for weddings and showers. With a garden reserved for special events, wedding parties can cut their own flowers and design their whole bouquet days before the special day.
Alternatively, those planning an event may prefer to bring the blooms to the party with a bouquet bar provided by Heritage Blooms U-Pick. They will be supplied with all the variety of blooms for their event so guests can get creative while designing their own unique bouquets.
The farm’s neighbouring business Samantha Ann & Co. and their new wedding venue, Pondview Estates, have used locally grown flowers from Heritage Blooms U-Pick for their event planning, as have local florists including Bethany Rose Puttkemery at Smells Like Flowers from Havelock.
Once the flowers are in full bloom this summer, Claudia will be leading several workshops including caring for dahlias, bouquet making, and dried flower printing. She has also previously partnered with local small businesses and artisans and is planning to do so again throughout the summer.
Outside of the growing season, Heritage Blooms U-Pick holds sales for dahlia tubers every spring, participates as a vendor at events such as the Magical Beginnings Wedding Show, and supports local organizations including the Asphodel-Norwood Public Library at their Seed Saturday and Used Book Sale.
The Local Advantage in Peterborough County is a branded editorial feature series about locally owned independent businesses in Peterborough County, created in partnership with Peterborough County’s Economic Development & Tourism Division.
As part of its response to the impact of U.S. tariffs, Peterborough County is showcasing the many unique businesses located in the county, both by sharing their stories of success and how they support both residents and other businesses in their communities.
Whether by shopping at local businesses, dining at local restaurants, staying at local accommodation, or enjoying local experiences, residents and visitors can enhance the economic resilience of Peterborough County during these challenging times and help establish a sustainable foundation for the future.
For more information about economic development and tourism in Peterborough County, visit www.ptbocounty.ca/ecdev and The Kawarthas Tourism at thekawarthas.ca.
Clean Up Peterborough's month-long Writing Instrument Challenge in June collected 26,772 used writing instruments, filling 18 bags and one box, which represents 158.11 kilograms of waste that will be diverted from landfills and instead recycled into new plastic products through TerraCycle's specialized program. (Photo: Steve Paul / Clean Up Peterborough)
As the saying goes, it’s better to aim high and miss than to aim low and hit.
While Clean Up Peterborough didn’t meet the ambitious goal for its month-long Writing Instrument Challenge in June of collecting 50,000 used writing instruments from across the city and county of Peterborough, it still collected an astonishing 26,772 of them — including pens, markers, highlighters, and mechanical pencils.
What’s more, according to the grassroots environmental initiative’s founder Steve Paul, the challenge raised awareness that plastic-based writing tools are too small and complex for standard municipal recycling systems and often end up in landfills.
Advertisement - content continues below
“Our original target was 50,000, but the true goal was always to spark a wider conversation about waste diversion and community action,” says Paul, who organized the challenge, in a media release. “In just one month, we reached thousands of people, saw 92 collection points established, and inspired many partners to continue collecting year-round. That impact far exceeded our expectations.”
According to Paul, the 26,772 writing instruments filled 18 bags and one box, representing 158.11 kilograms of waste that will be diverted from landfills and instead recycled into new plastic products through TerraCycle’s specialized program.
The top three contributors during the challenge were Lakefield District Public School (collecting 3,542 items), the Douro-Dummer Municipal Office (collecting 1,314 items), and Peterborough’s Avant Garden Shop (collecting 1,138 items).
Advertisement - content continues below
Lakefield District Public School’s top contribution reflects the fact that 42 schools participated in the challenge, accounting for nearly 70 per cent of all items collected. The challenge even extended beyond schools in Peterborough County, with some schools from the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board in neighbouring areas including Northumberland County and Cobourg also joining in.
Since joining TerraCycle’s program last October, Clean Up Peterborough has now collected a total of 28,805 used writing instruments for recycling. Paul is hoping that the success of the Writing Instrument Challenge will inspire others across the country to launch their own challenges, and he’s even offering to help.
“This isn’t the end — it’s a starting point,” Paul says. “I’m happy to collaborate with any community, school board, or organization across Canada that wants to take on a similar challenge. Imagine the collective impact if this became a national movement.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Although the June challenge is over, Paul says many of the participating schools, businesses, and organizations have expressed interest in keeping their collections going year-round. He plans to update Clean Up Peterborough’s drop-off map for used writing instruments and continue offering resources for those who want to participate over the long term.
Paul also has a goal of expanding the initiative this September to include all schools in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board and Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board, as well as all licensed child care centres across Peterborough County.
“Clean Up Peterborough extends sincere thanks to everyone who made this challenge possible — from the hundreds of students, teachers, and families who collected writing instruments, to the local businesses and community organizations that hosted collection points,” the media release states.
Advertisement - content continues below
“We are especially grateful to the City of Peterborough, Peterborough County, and the seven participating townships for their support in helping this initiative reach communities across the entire county. Thank you also to CBC Radio, kawarthaNOW, and Global Peterborough for helping spread the word, and to Erika Mark, a teacher at Kaawaate East City Public School, for her invaluable support in reaching fellow educators across the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board.”
For more information about Clean Up Peterborough and for updates on upcoming initiatives and events, visit Clean Up Peterborough on Facebook and Instagram or email Steve Paul at cleanuppeterborough@gmail.com.
The original version of this story has been updated with thank yous from Clean Up Peterborough.
With the House of Commons now in summer recess until September 15, 2025, Peterborough MP Emma Harrison sat down on July 7 for a feature interview with kawarthaNOW's Paul Rellinger at her Bethune Street constituency office to reflect on her political journey to date as a first-time MP. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
Speaking before the Liberal faithful back on March 25 when she launched her campaign, Emma Harrison promised “to work my ass off” if elected as Peterborough’s Member of Parliament.
Now, just more than two months after voters in overwhelming numbers marked an ‘X’ beside her ballot-listed name, the first-time MP is doing just that as she adjusts to political life, both in her riding and in Ottawa — all while raising three children with her husband and helping with the operation of their beef farm in Selwyn Township.
On Monday (July 7) at her Bethune Street constituency office, taking a rare moment to sit for a chat, MP Harrison reflected on her journey to date, from her decision to seek election to her convincing election victory and the steep learning curve that has followed.
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
But while MP Harrison has learned much, her election pledge “to restore the honour of being called a Member of Parliament” remains front of mind.
“Sometimes the whole thing doesn’t feel like it really happened,” she says of her campaign and the election. “Even last night I said to my husband ‘I can’t believe I’m the Member of Parliament.’ Being with my kids for a bit, on the farm, and thinking about what it means to represent a community — like what a big deal and what a big responsibility it is.”
“March 25th feels like a lifetime ago. It was such a whirlwind of so much incredible positivity from the community, and within the walls of the (campaign) office. You could just feel it building and building. It took on a life of its own. I didn’t expect that, although I really didn’t know what to expect.”
Peterborough MP Emma Harrison responding to a question from an opposition member in the House of Commons on June 12, 2025. “As a new member, it is honestly surprising that this is the way things are carried out. I do believe Canadians are expecting more from us besides this back-and-forth tit-for-tat.” (kawarthaNOW screenshot)
Reflecting on her decision to put her name forward for election, MP Harrison admits to “certain moments when I thought ‘Have I made the right decision?’,” but adding “That wasn’t a question that lingered for very long.”
“I’m a very committed person. I don’t ever do anything haphazardly or by accident. For me, that means full on. As soon as I was elected, I went right to Ottawa and jumped right in … four weeks of sitting and learning and go, go, go.”
Balancing family, farm, and political life, she says, continues to be a challenge but, she adds, that’s a byproduct of “doing the right thing.”
“It’s difficult to balance at times, but I know I’ve done the right thing, and I know that one day when I talk to them (her kids) about this, I think they’ll be really proud of me,” says MP Harrison, tearing up at the thought.
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
Her campaign, says MP Harrison, benefited immensely from the involvement of Andy Mitchell, a former Liberal cabinet minister who served as her campaign manager.
“From our first moment of meeting until the end of the campaign, the relationship we built was special,” she says, adding “We still talk, and I hope our friendship remains.”
“His commitment to public service, and to people, is tremendous. My dad passed in 2010. Andy and I have, 100 per cent, very quickly developed this father/daughter-like relationship, of him like being really protective of me.”
“The orchestration of something that big and so well run — I don’t think there’s enough of a light shone on that. But it was the team. We felt that wherever we went as the campaign went along.”
Hearing “people’s personal stories,” says MP Harrison, was a campaign highlight.
“I love to listen and I love to chat with people,” she says. “That was a challenge with how regimented door-knocking is supposed to be.”
“But people’s willingness to share their stories, that is one of the greatest gifts — people’s willingness to let you into their home and tell you how certain things are impacting them, or even share their ideas on how we can improve the struggles we’re facing.”
Peterborough MP Emma Harrison (second from right) was elected the English-speaking vice-chair of the Liberal Women’s Caucus. Also pictured is vice-chair (male ally) Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis, French-speaking vice-chair Sudbury MP Viviane Lapointe, chair Rivière-des-Mille-Îles MP Linda Lapointe, and treasurer Cumberland-Colchester MP Alana Hirtle. (Photo: Office of Linda Lapointe)
Having won the election by more than 10,000 votes over incumbent Conservative MP Michelle Ferreri (who, like Harrison, was also a first-time politician and MP when she was elected in 2021), it would be understandable — even expected — that MP Harrison would have a bit of a swelled head. Those looking for any semblance of that will be disappointed.
“I’m very proud to be a regular person, but I want more regular people at the tables and in the rooms where big decisions are being made,” she says.
“This morning, I sat with a bunch of farmers. You need to sit and listen to people, and hear them. They bring perspective and ideas that maybe you haven’t thought of. You listen and then, in turn, you can be a better advocate for people.”
To her credit, MP Harrison won’t pass comment on her predecessor as the riding’s federal representative, but she does feel “people are looking for empathy.” Asked if she can deliver on that, she quickly answers “100 per cent.”
“I want what’s best for all of the people in our riding, and across Canada. I think when you go about things in that way, you know you’re in the right spot. I have to sleep at night. I have to know that I worked hard and did the best I could for the people.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
As confident as Harrison was during the campaign, all indications were that she was up against it. Still, her decision made, she was in it to win it.
“I’ve played sports. I’ve lost a lot. You lose and you learn, and you grow. Losing is an opportunity to reflect on things you could improve on. I entered (the campaign) 20-something points behind (Ferreri). I said to Andy (Mitchell), ‘Do people make up these kinds of margins?’ He was like ‘I don’t know … not really.’ I went in thinking maybe there’s a slight chance we could win, but thinking ‘You’re going to do this anyways’.”
Even after the political winds shifted with Mark Carney replacing Justin Trudeau as prime minister and the Liberals gained ground on the Conservatives, the majority of the projected vote for the Peterborough riding was split evenly between Harrison and the incumbent up until voting day.
During her time so far in Ottawa, MP Harrison has been elected a vice-chair of the Liberal Women’s Caucus and named a member of the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food — a prudent choice based on her farming background, given that the multi-party committee studies bills, government activities and expenditures, and issues related to Canada’s agriculture and agri-food industry.
She has also chatted with Prime Minister Mark Carney. “I talked to him a bit about farming,” she says, adding, with wonderment, “He knew who I was … I didn’t know if he’d actually know who I am.”
Emma Harrison as a child. The third-generation Lakefield farmer, who was elected Peterborough MP on April 28, 2025, has been appointed to the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food, which studies bills, government activities and expenditures, and issues related to Canada’s agriculture and agri-food industry. (Photo: MP Harrison / Facebook)
And, on June 2, MP Harrison delivered her “maiden speech” in the House of Commons, an introductory address during which she talked at length of her father’s influence on her and her pride at being a third-generation farmer.
“I speak about this today because I have witnessed the pride that comes with working in the skilled trades,” she told her elected colleagues.
“I know that skilled trades have been overlooked and underappreciated for too long. However, I stand here today knowing that our new government knows that when Canadians come together, Canada builds things that last. We will build hundreds of thousands of careers in the skilled trades.”
She closed by referencing those who sent her to Ottawa.
“Residents in my home of Peterborough were ready to have a Member of Parliament who would listen to them and be their voice in Ottawa. They understood that we must seize the opportunity for renewal that we have as a country. They know, as we do, that we have an opportunity to think big and to act bigger.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
While she’s excited to learn the protocols and procedures that come with the job, MP Harrison makes it clear that being kind and empathetic doesn’t preclude her being tough when circumstances dictate.
“Knowing when to stand your ground is a great trait for a politician. There are moments when you have to say ‘No, I don’t agree. Not this MP. Not this government.’ In time, people will see I do care a lot about everything, but I have no problem just flat out saying ‘No’.”
While getting her constituency office in order is her current priority, MP Harrison says she is looking forward to “getting down to business” when the House of Commons, now in summer recess, resumes sitting on September 15.
“It’s going to be a really hectic time, but the prime minister has a really strong agenda of making things happen,” MP Harrison says. “He’s working hard to follow the mandate that he ran on and that he has been given. We (Liberal MPs) are behind that. This is what Canadians asked for.”
Peterborough MP Emma Harrison laughs during an interview with kawarthaNOW’s Paul Rellinger at her Bethune Street constituency office on July 7, 2025. With the House of Commons now in summer recess, the first-time MP’s current priority is getting her constituency office in order before returning to Ottawa when the House resumes on September 15. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
Officials from the Ontario government and the City of Kawartha Lakes gathered at a housing development in Fenelon Falls as part of an announcement of $1,442,307 in funding for the municipality through the province's "Building Faster Fund" after the municipality broke ground on 451 new homes last year, representing 83 per cent of its 2024 housing target. From left to right: Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock MPP Laurie Scott, Kawartha Lakes councillor Mike Perry, Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister parliamentary assistant Matthew Rae, Kawartha Lakes mayor Doug Elmslie, Kawartha Lakes building and property housing manager Don Quibell, and Kawartha Lakes human services director Cheryl Faber. (Photo: City of Kawartha Lakes)
The City of Kawartha Lakes has received a $1.4-million boost from the provincial government for meeting its target for housing in 2024, by breaking ground on 451 new homes.
As part of its investments in housing-enabling infrastructure, the Ontario government has awarded $1,442,307 to the city through the second round of its “Building Faster Fund,” which provides funding to municipalities that achieve at least 80 per cent of their provincially designated housing targets.
The $1.4 million will go directly towards an affordable housing project currently under construction in Fenelon Falls, said City of Kawartha Lakes Mayor Doug Elmslie during a funding announcement on Monday morning (July 7).
Advertisement - content continues below
Located at 106 Murray St., the project will see 30 units of affordable housing built and support the efforts of the Kawartha Lakes Haliburton Housing Corporation, he noted.
“Today is a great day, for us, and for future Kawartha Lakes residents,” Elmslie said.
“For the second year in a row, we have worked toward our ultimate goal of 6,500 new homes by 2031. We are making strides and doing our part to increase the housing supply in Ontario.”
Elmslie expressed his appreciation for the province, municipal affairs and housing minister Rob Flack (who was represented at the event by his parliamentary assistant Matthew Rae), and Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock MPP Laurie Scott.
The City of Kawartha Lakes will use the $1,442,307 in funding through the province’s “Building Faster Fund” for an affordable housing project currently under construction at 106 Murray Street in Fenelon Falls. The two-storey, 30-unit wood-frame building will include 16 one-bedroom units (four of which are barrier free), 12 two-bedroom units, and two three-bedroom units. The building will also feature a laundry room, a common area with a kitchen and service areas, and parking. (Photo: City of Kawartha Lakes)
The affordable housing project in Fenelon Falls is “addressing a vital need in our municipality,” the mayor said.
The Murray Street affordable housing project is a two-storey, 30-unit wood-frame building with 16 one-bedroom units (four of which are barrier free), 12 two-bedroom units, and two three-bedroom units. The building will also feature a laundry room, a common area with a kitchen and service areas, and parking.
“We are committed to ensuring that every new housing development includes a fair share of affordable homes for low-income families,” Elmslie said. “A waitlist of up to 10 years — what some of our residents are facing today — is simply unacceptable. We value our partnerships with other levels of government as we work together to tackle this housing crisis.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Kawartha Lakes broke ground on 451 new homes in 2024, which works out to 83 per cent of its 2024 housing target. The provincial funding can be used by the municipality to build more homes as well as community infrastructure.
“The Building Faster Fund is a bold, three-year, $1.2-billion initiative designed to accelerate housing development by rewarding municipalities that meet or exceed their provincial housing targets,” said Alexandra Sanita, spokesperson for Ontario’s municipal affairs and housing minister.
“Municipalities know their communities best and with support from the Building Faster Fund, they have the flexibility to invest where it matters most,” she told kawarthaNOW. “This funding can be used to upgrade and expand critical infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, bridges, and water systems — essential foundations to build our communities.”
Advertisement - content continues below
“The Building Faster Fund allocations can also be used to support the creation of affordable housing, (including) the construction of modular and factory-built homes, helping to ensure municipalities can build the homes their communities need,” Sanita added.
For the City of Kawartha Lakes, Elmslie said the provincial funding is an investment in the future.
“Together we are building the future of Kawartha Lakes — a future where families and individuals across all walks of life can plant roots, both figuratively and literally,” Elmslie said. “We are a community of communities, and we will thrive together when everyone has a place to call home. We have a long journey ahead to achieve this, but we are committed to staying the course and taking the right steps to get there.”
On July 26, 2025, Campbellford registered nurse Emma Rogers will be releasing "Darkness Before Light," a memoir about her lived experience with bipolar disorder, addictions, and self-destruction and her road to healing and recovery. With a goal of breaking the stigma around mental illness, she has also launched a community platform, leads writing workshops and speaking engagements, and will be hosting a community walk for mental health on July 19 at Jackson Park in Peterborough. (Photos courtesy of Emma Rogers)
This summer, a Campbellford nurse is releasing a raw, unfiltered memoir about her mental health journey and recovery with the hope of helping others to not feel so alone.
“My goal is to inspire others who are struggling but also to bring awareness, in both personal and professional lives, that we can’t judge people for some of the decisions that they make,” says Emma Rogers. “There may be more reasons behind why people act the way they do.”
To be published on July 26, Darkness Before Light explores Rogers’ experiences with bipolar disorder, ADHD, self-destruction, and addiction while growing up in Peterborough and her journey to survival and recovery.
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
“My parents would call me a child who definitely struggled, who was very unhappy, who had outbursts from a young age, and no matter what my family did to provide me happiness, I just really struggled to internally find that,” she says. “Because we live in a society that really has stigma around mental health, we didn’t seek attention right away and so we let that mental health hide for a lot of my life and, because I was under-treated, it led to a lot of problems.”
The memoir explores some of Rogers’ “darkest” moments, including impulsive, risky, and suicidal behaviours.
“For those who are suffering from mental health, you really have to hit your dark place to realize that you can’t let mental health dictate who you are as a person, and you have to own it, grow and learn, and develop strategies to overcome the demons that are inside,” Rogers says. “The light is living freely and living in the moment and loving yourself, and that’s where I’ve been able to get to.”
After navigating undiagnosed mental illness since childhood, Campbellford registered nurse Emma Rogers was in a mental health facility in 2023 where she began to use writing as part of her recovery and healing. On July 26, 2025, she will be releasing her memoir “Darkness Before Light” and has created an online community to support others struggling with their mental health. (Photos courtesy of Emma Rogers)
The memoir outlines some of these obstacles Rogers faced and her experiences on the path to recovery, including being admitted into a Toronto mental health facility in 2023. It was on this “stepping stone” where she began finding healing through journalling and writing.
“It’s a new discovery and something that I wished I utilized way, way back,” she recalls, referring to journalling. “I started writing for myself, and when I started reading back on things, it really hit me that I wish when I was younger, I had someone I could look up to who was going through the same struggle and me.”
“As I was writing, I really was inspired to help others, and I hope that more people come forward after this memoir is released just to bring awareness and gather as a community to conquer this stigma that surrounds mental health.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
As a registered nurse working in long-term care who has been in several leadership roles throughout her career, Rogers explains it was also important for her to highlight, through the memoir, how invisible mental illness can be.
“You can have what appears to be the most perfect life and people on the outside can think all is well, but you can have so many internal struggles, so when we’re communicating with people, we really need to be open to that and know that people have lives and people have struggles,” she says. “There are so many times where I’ve made decisions both in my personal (life) and professional careers that have been a result of my mental health struggles, where I’ve acted out in ways, and I’ve been so judged for it.”
To further break down the stigma, Rogers is hosting “Mental Health, Let’s Walk” on Saturday, July 19 at 11 a.m. at Jackson Park in Peterborough. She is inviting community members who needs a friend or companion to talk about some of their challenges and struggles while walking together as a community.
Emma Rogers is hosting “Mental Health, Let’s Walk” at Peterborough’s Jackson Park on July 19, 2025 at 11 a.m. to create an inviting and supportive space for community members of all ages and genders to find support while navigating mental health issues. (Photo courtesy of Emma Rogers)
The walk is one event in a series of initiatives Rogers is beginning to launch through her new platform, Breaking The Stigma.
“If I can be a voice for others coming forward, not only can we reduce the stigma, but we can also change the way workplaces are against mental health and change the healthcare system,” she says. “I’ve had several people reach out via messenger or social media and say they’re struggling right now and just don’t have the access to mental health services.”
When Rogers was in the mental health facility, she was fortunate to have her parents support her financially, but she recognizes that not everybody has that support.
“There are people who have reached out who are on waiting lists, and they’ve been on waiting lists for two years to get the treatment they need,” she says. “Healthcare in and of itself needs to improve when it comes to mental health, because mental health is no different than any other illness and it really needs to be taken seriously. I think the more people that can come forward and share their stories and advocate, the more we can improve the way of the world.”
Through Breaking the Stigma, Rogers is also using her lived experience to lead writing workshops on writing through pain, with a large focus on reflection.
“The workshops will just focus on really digging into yourself and trying to find self-love and self-reflection,” she says. “I don’t think people self-reflect enough, and I think self-reflection has been a huge part of my healing and recovery.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Share on Bluesky
Rogers is also available for speaking engagements to share about her experiences, her recovery, and the tools and resources she used. Above all, she hopes to create a community where people feel supported enough to come forward and talk about their challenges.
“My goal is to share my story, share my struggles, share my strengths, and really develop a community and develop a space where people can feel safe and heard,” she says. “That’s the goal: bring awareness and be a support for those who are struggling.”
Jeeniraj "JJ" Thevasagayam has been appointed the new executive director of the New Canadians Centre in Peterborough effective September 2, 2025. (Supplied photo)
A Canadian newcomer is the new executive director of the New Canadians Centre (NCC).
The Peterborough-based non-profit charitable organization that supports immigrants, refugees, and other newcomers in the Kawarthas region has announced that Jeeniraj “JJ” Thevasagayam will be the organization’s new executive director, effective September 2.
Thevasagayam, who was most recently manager of housing at the City of Peterborough, was hired after an extensive search process that began in April and resulted in NCC receiving almost 300 applications from candidates across the country, according to a media release from NCC.
Advertisement - content continues below
Along with his experience at the City of Peterborough, Thevasagayam has served on many boards and committees, including locally for NCC and the YMCA.
His new role as executive director at NCC has special significance given his background as a newcomer refugee.
According to the release, Thevasagayam came to Canada with his family when they fled civil war in Sri Lanka and grew up in the community of Regent Park in downtown Toronto. As a a newcomer refugee, he faced numerous challenges, including homelessness and precarious housing situations, and was supported by non-profit organizations with missions similar to that of NCC.
Advertisement - content continues below
“We are thrilled to welcome JJ as our new executive director,” NCC board chair Kim Blackwell ates in the release. “His extensive experience, commitment, and knowledge of the community and the NCC community make him the perfect fit for this role.”
Thevasagayam replaces Andy Cragg, who left NCC at the end of June after almost six years leading the organization.
“As someone whose journey as a newcomer was shaped by the kind of support NCC provides, this opportunity holds deep personal meaning,” Thevasagayam says. “I understand the challenges many newcomers face and the difference that a warm welcome, meaningful support, and strong community connections can make.”
Advertisement - content continues below
“I am committed to building on NCC’s strong foundation and expanding its impact across Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and Northumberland County,” Thevasagayam adds.
“With the support of staff, the board, volunteers, and our community partners, I look forward to working together to build inclusive and vibrant communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the fabric of Canadian society.”
Until Thevasagayam begins in his new role, NCC’s director of client services Marisa Kaczmarczyk will serve as interim executive director.
Six people have been seriously injured following a head-on crash on County Road 28 near Bewdley early Monday morning (July 7).
At around 5:30 a.m., Northumberland County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) along with Northumberland Emergency Medical Services and Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services responded to a serious collision between two passenger sedans on County Road 28 north of Bewdley.
Both drivers of the two vehicles, along with four passengers in one of the vehicles, received serious to life-threatening injuries.
Advertisement - content continues below
All six victims have been transported to various trauma centres with the assistance of Ornge air ambulance services.
County Road 28 between Rice Lake Drive and Hannah Road will be closed until police have documented and cleared the scene.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Vintage and classic cars and motorcycles will be on display at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene during the 28th annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show on July 13, 2025. (Photo: Heather Doughty Photography)
Vintage and classic car and motorcycle enthusiasts are gearing up for the 28th Annual Transportation Day Car & Motorcycle Show at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene on Sunday (July 13).
From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. rain or shine, enthusiasts from across Ontario will be showcasing their antique and classic cars and vintage motorcycles throughout the historic village.
Hop on board a horse-drawn wagon ride or take a leisurely stroll to explore the show, where you can vote for your favourite car and motorcycle. Over 25 trophies will be awarded, including the coveted People’s Choice and Lang’s Choice awards.
Advertisement - content continues below
While the show is a highlight of the day, Transportation Day has even more to offer. You can learn more about how transportation has changed over the years and the roles various trades have played in the creation of transportation methods.
There will also be a variety of historic demonstrations including rope making demonstrations, Jacquard loom weaving demonstrations, log hand hewing demonstrations, Grist Mill demonstrations, and more.
Take in a tongue-in-cheek suffrage meeting at the Town Hall during set demonstration times, and check out the displays by the Peterborough County City Paramedics and by the Peterborough Model Railroaders.
Advertisement - content continues below
For kids, there will be school lessons on pioneer travel and transportation, schoolyard games and races, a corn sandbox, a craft activity at the Ayotte Cabin, and a colouring contest in the Great Hall or the Peterborough County Agricultural Heritage Building, where DJ Del and Jenny Jams will be in the courtyard spinning tunes from the 1950s to 1980s.
Food options (for an additional fee) include freshly popped kettle corn from Ben’s Kettle Corn, BBQ items from the Keene Lions Club food truck (cash only), snow cones and lemonade from Snowie Canada, fresh Empire Cheese curds in the Cheese Factory, and refreshments and sweet treats at the Keene Hotel.
Admission costs $17 for adults, $12 for students and seniors 60 and older, and $9 for children and youth ages five to 14, with free admission for children under five. Family admission is also available for $5 and includes two adults and up to four children and youth. Visitors may purchase admission at the gates or in advance online.
Advertisement - content continues below
If you’re a classic car or motorcycle enthusiast and want to display your vehicle, participant registration runs from 8 a.m. to noon (gates open at 7 a.m.) on show day. Space is limited and is available on a first-come first-served basis. The $10 registration fee includes admission into the village. The first 200 vehicles to enter will receive a complimentary dash plaque as a souvenir of their participation.
Other special events at Lang Pioneer Village Museum this summer include a Corn Roast on Sunday, August 17. Outside of special events, the museum’s summer hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays until August 31.
kawarthaNOW.com offers two enews options to help readers stay in the know. Our VIP enews is delivered weekly every Wednesday morning and includes exclusive giveaways, and our news digest is delivered daily every morning. You can subscribe to one or both.
Submit your event for FREE!
Use our event submission form to post your event on our website — for free.
To submit editorial content or ideas, please contact us.
