A head-on collision between two passenger vehicles on Highway 7 west of Norwood on June 14, 2024 seriously injured one of drivers. (Photo: Peterborough County OPP)
One person suffered life-threatening injuries in a head-on collision on Highway 7 west of Norwood late Friday afternoon (June 14).
At around 4 p.m. on Friday, Peterborough County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and emergency crews responded to the scene of a serious collision between two passenger vehicles on Highway 7 between County Road 38 and Asphodel 4th Line.
According to police, an eastbound grey Kia crossed the centre line and collided head on with a westbound white Toyota. Both drivers had to be extricated from their vehicles by the fire department.
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The driver of the Kia was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and was later transported to a trauma centre in Toronto. The driver of the Toyota was taken to to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. A third vehicle suffered damage as a result of debris from the head-on collision, but the driver of that vehicle was uninjured.
Police closed Highway 7 for several hours on Friday while they investigated and documented the scene.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has video or dashcam footage and has not yet spoken to police is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
Rebecca Anne Bloom, general manager of Globus Theatre in Bobcaygeon, accepts a $20,000 grant from Invest Kawartha CEO Vince Killen as part of a new funding program called LEAP that invests in local non-profit organizations that contribute to economic development in Kawartha Lakes. Globus Theatre is one of seven non-profits that received grants in LEAP's inaugural year. (Photo courtesy of Invest Kawartha)
Seven non-profit organizations in the Kawartha Lakes are taking a “leap” forward with grants from Invest Kawartha’s new funding stream.
From the Bobcaygeon branch of the Royal Canadian Legion to the Lindsay Agricultural Society, the grants are distributed by Invest Kawartha through its newly developed LEAP program.
LEAP is an acronym that represents the mission and goals of the program: Locally based support for not-for-profit organizations (NFPs); Empowering projects through local and regional economic development; Access to capital, talent, resources and business advisory services; and Projects that are incremental, scalable, and results-driven.
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Invest Kawartha said the funding targets contributing to the growth, resiliency, and vibrancy of the community in the Kawartha Lakes.
“LEAP has been designed to strengthen Kawartha Lakes and its surrounding communities,” said Vince Killen, executive director of Kawartha Lakes Community Futures Development Corporation (CFDC) and CEO of Invest Kawartha, in a media release.
“The program supports strategic community projects, social innovation, and NFPs by building capacity to design and scale initiatives. These new projects are a great example of the impact programs like LEAP can have to nurture non-profits, amplify impact, and elevate our local community.”
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In its inaugural year, LEAP has distributed more than $90,000 to seven projects:
Bobcaygeon Royal Canadian Legion Branch 239 – A $12,709 grant will support improvements to the legion’s banquet hall. It targets increasing the community’s use of, and access to, the legion, and the creation of a new “Remembrance Wall.”
Globus Theatre – A $20,000 grant will help fund new equipment and technology that aims to support sustainability and growth at the Bobcaygeon theatre company. The purchases include a new point of sale system and cloud-based customer relationship management software to support marketing and event management.
Grove Theatre – A $20,000 grant will support the Fenelon Falls theatre company’s marketing and advertising costs, help it secure permanent signs, and fund regional marketing initiatives to increase attendance and brand awareness.
Lindsay Agricultural Society – The agricultural society is using a $6,000 grant to support strategic planning development initiatives in the upcoming years.
Lindsay Lawn Bowling Club – A $7,078 grant will support the purchase of a weatherproof sound system and public announcement system for its facility, with the goal of significantly improving communication during public events.
Ottawa Huron Tract History Association – The association will use a $10,713 grant to design, develop and host a “Heritage Stories Festival” in Lindsay in August. It will include exhibits on historical buildings, local artist showcases, various writing and photo contests, and more.
Lindsay and District Chamber of Commerce – A $14,000 grant will help fund the purchase and support of five new GPS-enabled bicycles as part of the chamber’s ongoing bikeshare program, with the goal of contributing to the vibrancy of the community.
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LEAP is designed to contribute to the growth, resiliency, and vibrancy of the community by providing NFPs with the funding for projects that support and promote community economic development in Kawartha Lakes, develop and deliver their strategic priorities locally, support the development of partnerships that build capacity to deliver services in the local community, and support the development of opportunities for a healthy, active lifestyle and contribute to a positive quality of life in the region.
Invest Kawartha noted the intake process for 2024 is now closed and it will reopen later in 2025.
Based out of Launch Kawartha in Lindsay, Invest Kawartha is described as an innovation-focused entrepreneurial and economic development ecosystem organization that provides funding, business advisory and support, and incubation and acceleration services to entrepreneurs. It is considered to be a key economic development and strategic partner to multiple NFPs and non-governmental organizations within the City of Kawartha Lakes and beyond.
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Launch Kawartha is an innovation and entrepreneurship centre, which is centrally located in the heart of downtown Lindsay in the Scotiabank building. The 5,000-square-foot facility provides free services and fully furnished incubation workspaces for new entrepreneurs.
Anchored by Kawartha Lakes CFDC and Invest Kawartha, along with multiple strategic partners and entrepreneurs in residence, Launch Kawartha provides entrepreneurs with access multiple funding streams, innovative programming, expertise, guidance, mentorship, and professional services all in one location.
Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the entire greater Kawarthas region beginning on Monday (June 17) and continuing for most of the week.
The heat warning is in effect for Peterborough County, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands.
A prolonged heat event will begin on Monday, with dangerously hot and humid conditions expected through most of the week.
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Daytime highs on Monday and through much of the week are expected to be 30 to 35 degrees Celsius, with humidex values of 40 to 45.
There will be little relief overnight, as lows are expected to be 18 to 23 degrees Celsius with humidex values of 26 to 30.
Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and can result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high-risk category.
Peterborough's Tastely Box has launched a months-long fundraiser for Peterborough Regional Health Centre, where up to 40 per cent of in-store purchases will be donated as well as proceeds from limited edition candies available online. To encourage community engagement, the candy shop is also hosting giveaways, contests, and launching new products. (Photo courtesy of Tastely Box)
Though Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival has come and gone, the community is not yet done raising funds for Peterborough Regional Health Centre (PRHC).
Peterborough’s viral sweet tooth destination Tastely Box has launched a months-long fundraiser with the goal of raising $10,000 in support of the PRHC Foundation. Over the next five months, a portion of proceeds from select in-store and online purchases will support the fundraiser, while in-store events will encourage community involvement.
“We just hope we can bring a community together and recognize what PRHC does,” says Polly Laneville, who owns Tastely Box with her husband James. “What they provide is far more than just health care. They provide love, comfort, and so much more to these families and we just want to be able to be a part of that as much as we can.”
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After Laneville and her husband launched the sugar-coated business as mostly a hobby in 2021, it grew rapidly with the help of viral TikTok videos (Tastely Box currently boasts 2.3 million followers on TikTok and an additional 55 thousand on Instagram). Currently sharing a unit alongside Modern Makers Shop, Tastely Box is one of the first businesses in Peterborough with a freeze-dried candy pick ‘n’ mix and gummy pick ‘n’ mix where customers can curate their own mixes.
But while the business was making sweet steps, a lot was changing in Laneville’s personal life as well, as her mother was diagnosed with stage four cancer in late 2021 not long after Laneville and her husband launched Tastely Box. While Laneville’s mother immediately sought treatment, the cancer did not slow, and she passed away in January of 2023.
“She was spunky, had a very loud personality, was very funny, and was a great person,” Laneville says, noting that her mother encouraged her from a young age when teachers were impatient with Laneville, who has been diagnosed with autism and ADHD.
“My mom was very supportive of me and always said, ‘You’re going to be successful. You’re going to show them all what you’re capable of and show yourself, and you can do more than what people think you can’, and I’ve done that,” she says. “I’ve proved that to myself.”
Tastely Box’s Polly Laneville wanted to give back to Peterborough Regional Health Centre after they cared for her and her family during her mother’s cancer treatments and end-of-life care. To say thank you and support families facing similar circumstances, she is using her business to raise funds for the foundation over the next five months. (Photo courtesy of Tastely Box)
Lanesville’s mother was treated at PRHC throughout her treatments and end-of-life care.
“I know that my mom and my dad both really appreciated what PRHC did for them, and they really appreciated what the local hospice did for them,” she says. “Everyone was just so kind, so gentle, so sweet, and had great, uplifting personalities. They were just a joy for her, my dad, and even us to be around.”
Laneville is hopeful to provide support for other families dealing with cancer through the Tastely Box fundraiser.
“It’s an awful thing to have to deal with,” she says. “I want to find some way to bring sunshine to those families and show them that there are people that know what they’re going through or have gone through, and we’re here to support them and the people who support them as well.”
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Over the next few months while the fundraiser is in progress, 20 to 40 per cent of sale proceeds of nearly everything in store — except for limited commercial items — will be donated to the PRHC Foundation, including the freeze-dried candy pick ‘n’ mix, the gummy pick ‘n’ mix, and the recently re-launched rolled ice cream.
To encourage customers to shop in store, Tastely Box has many new items in the works to be launched over the coming months, including a gourmet marshmallow “fluff,” and the return of the “crackle candy” — a highly in-demand, in-house special. Also on the horizon is the creation of a grab ‘n’ go station with dipped cheesecakes and dipped ice cream sandwiches for those who don’t want to wait for rolled ice cream.
“We’ll have freezies that are just a dollar or even less, and things that are quick for kids and in their little budgets,” says Laneville. “We’re trying to stay within everyone’s budget, so it makes it easier for people to come in and still enjoy a treat and have a little bit of fun in a candy shop,”
Tastely Box has just re-launched their decadent rolled ice cream for in-store customers. The rolled ice cream is included with Tastely Box’s ongoing fundraiser in support of the Peterborough Regional Health Centre and can be purchased by visiting Tastely Box in the Modern Makers Shop at 651 Chamberlain Street in Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Tastely Box)
Those who make donations to Tastely Box’s fundraiser through in-store purchases will also automatically be entered in a raffle to win a gift basket with products from a collection of local businesses, including Bowmanville-based Blazing Bombs and Lindsay-based plant shop Country Tropics. The aim is to have one raffle per month of the fundraiser, for a total of five prizes.
“We know the economy makes it difficult to run a small business, so anybody that is able to donate, we appreciate that,” she says. “Chantelle (Coyle of Modern Makers Shop) has such a great community of small businesses that she works with, so we know we’re going to be able to make some great baskets.”
Colouring contests for adults and children and a city-wide scavenger hunt will also be part of the fundraiser.
“That’s going to help kids get included into everything and get them to know about what the story is behind this and talk about PRHC just to open the conversation,” Laneville says. “But it’s also a way to encourage kids to learn about and be part of their communities.”
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There will also be opportunity for those outside the region who are unable to step into the store to contribute to the fundraiser. A portion of the sale proceeds of selected limited edition gummy mixes, freeze dried mixes, and more on the Tastely Box website will be donated to the PRHC Foundation.
Taking advantage of Tastely Box’s large online following, Laneville will be posting games and activities through the company’s social media accounts to engage participation in the fundraiser.
“It’s just a fun way to encourage people to interact and help grow the knowledge about this fundraiser,” she says. “A lot of people are connected to knowing how it feels to be touched by cancer in some way, so I feel like it’s a good way to encourage that following of mine to just be part of it and learn about how valuable and strong an asset these hospitals and these support workers, nurses, and doctors are to all of our communities.”
James and Polly Laneville, owners of Tastely Box, with fellow business owner Chantelle Coyle of Modern Makers Shop. Using Coyle’s connections with small businesses, Tastely Box is curating gift baskets as a giveaway available for anyone who makes a purchase in support of Tastely Box’s fundraiser for the Peterborough Regional Health Centre. (Photo courtesy of Tastely Box)
Above all, Laneville hopes to help others experiencing the same loss and grief that she knows first-hand.
“I’m excited to finally be in a place for ourselves and for our family to be able to do this and honour my mom in this way, while also honouring the people who cared for her,” says Laneville.
“It’s just a drop in the bucket, because we just want to give thanks back. No matter how much we try to thank them, it’s never going to truly show the gratitude in which we truly feel for the care that they provided her.”
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Tastely Box is located at 651 Chamberlain Street, Unit 1, in Peterborough.
The shop is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesday, noon to 6 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and noon to 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
While the family-owned business began as a hobby, Tastely Box quickly became an online sensation with more than 2.3 million TikTok followers. Tastely Box’s retail location is currently sharing a space with the Modern Makers Shop at 651 Chamberlain Street in Peterborough. (Photo courtesy of Tastely Box)
The Haliburton Highlands offers a range of paddling experiences across more than 500 lakes. With both no-portage and backcountry camping sites available, small and quiet lakes, and municipally maintained paddle-in sites, the region has an option for every canoeist, kayaker, and stand-up paddleboarder. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
Whether you prefer a day of serene paddling on a scenic small lake or a portaging journey in the backcountry, the Haliburton Highlands has an option for every kind of paddler.
“We have over 500 lakes in Haliburton County, so the range of paddling opportunities is endless,” says Thom Lambert, content creator for the Haliburton Highlands Economic Development and Tourism Department. “There are not a lot of other places you can go and have access to this many styles of paddling, which includes everything from suburban paddling to backcountry wilderness paddling.”
Lambert notes that, unlike other regions, the majority of the lakes in the Haliburton Highlands are smaller in size and not connected to one another. This not only means there is reduced boat traffic, but it’s also easier to navigate for those who may be new to paddling.
Most of the lakes in the Haliburton Highlands are smaller in size and not connected to one another, making them ideal for paddlers who are new to the sport, interested in a day trip, or want solitude to enjoy the stunning scenery. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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“Even though you might be on a really beautiful lake with stunning scenery and great picnic, fishing, or swimming spots, it’s not hard to find your way back to shore and get to your car, which isn’t the case with bigger lakes,” Lambert says. “Every lake also has its own character, because it’s not connected to the others.”
While some people associate overnight camping trips with long portages, carrying their boats and equipment across land from one lake to another, the Haliburton Highlands offers a range of options for outdoor adventurers to skip the portaging altogether and enjoy their watercraft where it belongs — on the water — whether it’s a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP).
“We have opportunities for the people who are doing trips on SUPs and kayaks, and for families who don’t own super lightweight gear that’s easy to portage,” says Lambert. “There are opportunities that are just as beautiful as Algonquin Park, but you can be on a campsite for a couple of nights and never have to carry your stuff.”
While Koshlong Lake is one of the busier lakes in the Haliburton Highlands as there are cottages on the lake, it offers no-portage campsites on Crown land featuring towering pines and rocky shores. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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Some of the no-portage camping sites are located on Kingscote Lake in Algonquin Provincial Park. Around 11 per cent of the park’s southern area, known as the South Gate, is actually located within Haliburton County.
Other areas with portage-less campsites on Crown land include Koshlong Lake and Havelock Lake, while several lakes in the eastern part of the county include paddle-in sites on the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails, a backcountry canoe routes system that is municipally managed and regulated by the Township of Algonquin Highlands.
“The nice thing there is that you know you’re going to a maintained site that gets visited and cleaned up regularly and, if there’s danger, they’ll close it,” Lambert notes. “You also know that, if a site is open, it’s easily accessible. Whether you’re doing a portaging trip or not, it gives you a sense of confidence.”
Part of the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails backcountry canoe routes system, St. Nora Lake offers rocky campsites which make for a picturesque overnight camping experience without having to portage boats or equipment. The nearby Algonquin Highlands Trails office makes it easy to get anything you need before starting on your adventure. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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The lakes in the Haliburton Highlands Water Trails each have something unique to offer, with ideal swimming spots on Big East Lake, many bays to explore on Sherborne Lake, and picturesque campsites on St. Nora Lake — just a few of the hotspots.
“These campsites are what a lot of people think of as a traditional northern Ontario campsite — camping on a rocky point with amazing views, great breezes, and good swimming,” Lambert says. “It’s an opportunity for backcountry tripping but in a much less crowded and more accessible space, and one that is hours closer for people driving in from the south.”
The access point on St. Nora Lake is right beside the Algonquin Highlands Trails office, making it easy to get anything you need before starting on your adventure.
“You can rent a canoe right there, paddle out on St. Nora, do no portaging at all, and have an amazing weekend with beauty and solitude,” Lambert points out. “It really couldn’t be easier to access.”
The Haliburton Highlands is an ideal destination for stand-up paddleboarders, as it has small and unconnected that offer calm and accessible waters. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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With the smaller lakes across the county, the Haliburton Highlands offers ideal opportunities for people who prefer paddleboards to canoes or kayaks.
“Unless you’re a really skilled SUP paddler, the reality is it’s not quite as easy in rough water,” Lambert explains. “In the Haliburton Highlands, people can access a really beautiful small lake and paddle there, knowing that they’re always going to be able to get out of the wind and to the right shoreline.”
“They’re not going to be that far from their car, but they’re experiencing the same stunning scenery as they would in other places. That’s what makes it so interesting to people who might be more familiar with urban paddling.”
From day and overnight trips to businesses that offer stand-up paddleboard yoga, there are many ways to explore the lakes of the Haliburton Highlands on one of the most popular paddled watercraft. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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For those looking to paddle in a more suburban setting, the Gull River extends from the northern border of the county more than 80 kilometres to the southern border, flowing through a popular spot in the village of Minden. While locals often use floaties and tubes, the river can easily be used for SUPs as well, with Minden close by as a lunch destination.
“It’s a great day paddle there because most of the time the current isn’t super strong,” Lambert says. “People often stop at riverside breweries and restaurants or at The River Cone, which overhangs the river. It’s a really unique opportunity for village paddling, which most people don’t think of doing with a SUP.”
For a more relaxed experience using a SUP, Wolf Flow SUP Yoga & Fitness helps visitors and locals use their board as a tool for connecting with nature, while learning to paddle and explore the county.
“Owner Karley Stevenson does a great job of making it really accessible to people, with great equipment, and she’s a really good instructor and knows the area really well,” Lambert says. “It’s a neat opportunity to go out with somebody who’s going to lend you gear, make sure you’re in a safe paddling spot, and guide you through the learning process.”
Whether exploring by canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, the Haliburton Highlands offers locations where you can paddle and camp without the need to portage boats and equipment. Many of the lakes are quiet, with little boat traffic, and are easier to navigate. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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For those who prefer paddling canoes or kayaks, other businesses in Haliburton County offer guided trips that provide comfort and security for those who otherwise may not know where to begin. Algonquin Outfitters leads an excursion into Ragged Falls along the Oxtongue River beginning at Algonquin Park’s West Gate, and Deep Roots Adventure leads the High Falls Paddle, Explore, and Dine Trip, which departs from the Kingscote access point.
“It’s stunning,” says Lambert. “You get to paddle up this beautiful quiet river that anybody can paddle — there’s nothing to worry about in terms of the current or rapids — and it takes you right to the bottom of this beautiful section of the York River. There’s not a lot of other places where you can paddle to the base of a waterfall, hike up to the top, and go for a swim.”
Red Pine Lake in the Haliburton Highlands is a smaller lake which make it easier for beginner paddlers while reducing the strain of having to portage boats and equipment. A short paddle down the Kennesis River will take you to picturesque campsites. (Photo courtesy of Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism)
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Whether you’re a novice or experienced paddler, use a canoe, kayak, or SUP, and prefer taking a day trip or camping overnight in the backcountry, Lambert assures there’s something for everyone — and, of course, the scenery will never disappoint.
“There’s nothing quite like paddling in the Haliburton Highlands,” says Lambert.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with Haliburton Highlands Economic Development & Tourism. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
Some of the students from Cobourg Collegiate Institute's Grade 12 business class holding their retail-ready "Simply Salsa" products at the Ontario Agri-Food Venture Centre (OAFVC) in Colborne. OAFVC is hosting a free open house on June 15, 2024 where visitors can tour the 216 Purdy Road facility and learn more about OAFVC. (Photo: Northumberland County)
Northumberland County is opening the doors to the public on Saturday (June 15) for a peek into the kitchens of Colborne’s unique food processing facility.
Food entrepreneurs, farmers, and community members are invited to stop by the Ontario Agri-Food Venture Centre (OAFVC) on Purdy Road from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants will be able to see “Ontario’s leading shared-use consumer packaged goods (CPG) food processing facility” and discover how the OAFVC supports food entrepreneurs from Northumberland County and across Ontario.
The OAFVC is a small-batch food processing facility that helps food entrepreneurs and farmers bring “made in Ontario” products to market. Staff members provide business development support to help food entrepreneurs with launching or expanding their business.
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Entrepreneurs get access to industry-leading food processing equipment, cold, dry, and frozen food-safe storage facilities. Local farmers can find sustainable solutions for excess fruits and vegetables.
Cobourg high school students recently experienced first-hand the process of small-batch food processing when they prepared and bottled their own salsa.
Nineteen Cobourg Collegiate Institute (CCI) students created their product and brand with the support of the Business and Entrepreneurship Centre Northumberland (BECN) and the OAFVC.
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“This exercise offered the opportunity for high school students to experience the process of ideating and developing a product-based business from scratch,” said Kailyn Coupland, county business development manager, in a media release.
“The project aimed to inspire the future generation of business owners and help them acquire the skills they need to be able to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.”
Throughout the school semester, Molly Klintworth’s Grade 12 business class worked with BECN and OAFVC staff to plan, develop, produce and market their retail-ready salsa. The students took part in business training and development classes to create a business plan to promote their product. They learned a number of skills that included how to develop a logo, arrive at a slogan, and market their salsa effectively.
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With the support of Dancing Bee Equipment, located in Port Hope, the students were able to bring their vision to life by producing print packaging with custom labels. Once their business plan and branding were finalized, the students produced 600 jars of salsa at the OAFVC.
“The OAFVC was pleased to be able to host students from CCI to help them transform their creative business idea into retail-ready consumer packaged goods,” said OAFVC manager Trissia Mellor.
“While producing salsa at the OAFVC, the students gained skills in safe food handling practices, had the opportunity to learn how to use state of the art food production equipment, and were able to get a taste for the many agri-food entrepreneurship opportunities in Northumberland.”
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After developing their product, the students were able to implement their business and marketing plans to help support their school community, the release noted.
“We’re very proud of how the students transformed their creative ideas into tangible products, which are now being sold within the school community to help raise funds for the girl’s hockey team and the art club,” Klintworth said.
The BECN co-ordinates activities to expose students in Northumberland to business mentorship and training. In addition to school collaborations, the BECN also offers free annual student business programs to support youth entrepreneurs and connect them with micro grants, training, and resources to help them launch their own business.
Meanwhile at the OAFVC, the June 15 open house is a free event. Community members will receive a tour, learn about the OAFVC, and have a chance to ask questions. The OAFVC is located at 216 Purdy Road in Colborne.
For the third year in a row, the New Canadians Centre has organized the Canadian Multicultural Festival in June 2024 to celebrate multiculturalism in Peterborough while introducing attendees to the customs, music, art, dance, food, and stories of the various cultures that have secured a vibrant and still-growing footprint in the city and region. Pictured are participants in a multicultural craft day at least year's festival, which will also take place this year on Friday, June 28 during the New Canadians Centre's 45th Anniversary Block Party. (Photo: New Canadians Centre)
With Canadian Multiculturalism Day being marked June 27, the world is coming to Nogojiwanong-Peterborough, and who is better positioned to serve as host than the New Canadians Centre (NCC)?
For the third consecutive year, the non-profit organization has organized the Canadian Multicultural Festival, a series of programs and events celebrating multiculturalism in Peterborough while introducing attendees to the customs, music, art, dance, food, and stories of the various cultures that have secured a vibrant and still-growing footprint in the city and region.
NCC manager of community development Bhisham Ramoutar speaks to that presence, noting the centre served more 2,000 newcomers over the past year — a 50 per cent increase from the previous year.
The third annual Canadian Multicultural Festival coincides with the 45th anniversary of the New Canadians Centre, which will be celebrating with a free block party on June 28, 2024. The free family-friendly celebration will feature a talent show, multicultural crafts, henna, face painting, a bouncy castle, food, and a cultural fair. (Graphic: New Canadians Centre)
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“It’s really important for newcomers to represent their cultures, to represent the countries they’re coming from, and see themselves reflected in our programming,” says Ramoutar. “That’s one of the reasons we put so much focus on this festival, because it provides our clients with the opportunity to showcase different aspects of their culture.”
“The majority of the events are facilitated by individuals who are new to Canada. This gives them a platform to share their culture, and allows the wider community to respectfully learn about other cultures and be engaged with the fabric of what makes Peterborough so diverse.”
In 2013, Ramoutar was himself a newcomer to the city. A native of Trinidad and Tobago (he also lived in Guyana for 13 years), Ramoutar attended Trent University as an international student, graduating in 2017 with a BA (Honours) in History and International Development Studies. Later that same year, he joined the staff team at NCC.
Acknowledging that Peterborough, like any community with a large population of newcomers, hasn’t been immune to isolated incidents of implied or overt racism, Ramoutar says the festival is important in terms of fostering a better understanding and acceptance of other cultures.
“It’s a way to humanize immigrants and humanize different parts of the world, and enter into a space of welcome and a place of learning as well,” he says.
A preview of what’s scheduled for the Canadian Multicultural Festival proves there will be ample opportunity to do just that, including what is destined to be the festival’s signature event on Friday, June 28th outside NCC’s 221 Romaine Street (at Aylmer Street) location.
From 2 to 6 p.m. that day, the centre is hosting its 45th Anniversary Block Party. The free family-friendly celebration will feature a talent show, multicultural crafts, henna, face painting, a bouncy castle, and food. In addition, a cultural fair will provide the opportunity to learn about some of the city’s multicultural and faith-based groups and their programming.
In the event of rain, no worries — the party will move indoors.
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“It’s a celebration of the past 45 years and the community welcoming us, but it’s also a celebration of the next 45 years to come,” says Ramoutar.
“Our actual physical neighbourhood, but also our metaphorical neighbourhood of the wider Peterborough community, has been very welcoming to newcomers and to the New Canadians Centre. This is a chance for all of us to come together to reflect and celebrate together.”
Preceding that event are a few others, each providing their own cultural flare to the overall celebration.
On Wednesday, June 19th from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., a Bollywood Dance Party and Marketplace will be held at Millennium Park at King and Water streets.
Instructor Magna Karthik will lead participants through a dance routine designed for beginners to experienced dancers, with the actual dancing fun to begin at 6 p.m.
The marketplace will feature Indian-inspired snacks, henna, rangoli art, craft, and artwork by local artists. Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable colourful or Indian clothing to enhance the festive spirit.
The Canadian Multicultural Festival includes the Multicultural Food Crawl, running until June 30, 2024 at 10 downtown Peterborough restaurants. The restaurants will also participate in a free sampling day at the New Canadians Centre’s 45th Anniversary Block Party on Friday, June 28. (Photo: New Canadians Centre)
Next, on Thursday, June 20th, the festival serves up something more cerebral via what’s billed as a community conversation. From 6 to 8 p.m. at the Peterborough Public Library, on what is World Refugee Day, the theme “Our Home” will be explored.
Moderated by social justice activist Simal Iftikhar, a panel comprised of Trent University sociology professor emeritus Dr. Alena Heitlinger, Selah House manager Helen Reader, human rights advocate Mandana Kamali, and Mohammed Shamout — who immigrated to Canada in 2016 as a student refugee and later graduated from Trent University with a Bachelor of Business Administration — will provide insights and engage dialogue on fostering welcoming communities and the support of refugees.
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Meanwhile, the “Try It…” series of participatory activities is scheduled over four days.
On Saturday, June 22nd from 3 to 5 p.m. at Quaker Foods City Square, a Zumba party will be held featuring free face painting, kids’ activities, giveaways, and the NCC Women’s Group Craft Market also taking place. Registration is not required.
On Sunday, June 23rd, a jollof rice cooking class — which will teach registrants how to cook the popular West African rice dish, with halal chicken and vegetarian options available — will be held from noon to 3 p.m. at the NCC at 211 Romaine Street. As the class is limited to 20 people, advance registration is required.
Then, on Monday, June 24th from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the NCC at 221 Romaine Street, a language exchange event provides the opportunity to learn common words and phrases in Spanish, French, Hindi and Arabic, and then put that new knowledge to the test for a chance to win prizes. No advance registration is required for this drop-in style event.
And on Tuesday, June 25th from 2 to 4 p.m., again at the NCC at 221 Romaine Street, “Sip Around The World” allows participants to discover and savour unique coffee and tea brews from around the globe, including Karak tea from the Gulf Region of the Middle East, Honduran and Ethiopian coffees, Mexican hot chocolate, and Tunisian mint tea. As there is a limit on the number of people who can attend, advance registration is required.
With a satellite office in Cobourg, NCC is bringing the Canadian Multicultural Festival there as well in the form of “Around The World In Northumberland” on Wednesday, June 26th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Cobourg Marina at 103 3rd Street. Cultural landscapes will be explored through music, dance and drink, with performances by the Northumberland Multicultural Dance Troupe featured. Bring lawn chairs or blankets for this a free, family-friendly community event.
Running for the month of June, the Multicultural Food Crawl celebrates the diversity of food that different cultures bring to the Peterborough region, often resulting in unique dishes like this shawarma poutine at Ariyana, one of the 10 downtown restaurants participating in the food crawl. (Photo: Ariyana)
Meanwhile, throughout this month, NCC’s Multicultural Food Crawl is continuing in downtown Peterborough.
Presented in partnership with the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) , the ongoing event highlights international dishes available at 10 restaurants in downtown Peterborough. The participating restaurants are Ariyana, Bhojan, Cork & Bean, Curry Village, Fresh Dreams, La Mesita Restaurante, Levantine Grill, Milk + Tea Shop, Oasis Mediterranean Grill (OMG), and Village of Thai.
Until June 30, for every $10 you spend at one of the participating restaurants, you will receive a stamp to add to your Multicultural Food Passport. Passports can be picked up at any of the participating restaurants or at the New Canadians Centre’s office at 221 Romaine Street in downtown Peterborough. Collect six stamps and enter a draw to win one of three $100 Boro gift cards that can be redeemed at downtown businesses.
Participating Restaurants – Multicultural Festival Food Crawl
During the Multicultural Food Crawl, NCC is encouraging participants to share their love of Peterborough’s international cuisine by voting for their favourite restaurant at bit.ly/NCC_FoodCrawl, and to share their food experience by tagging the New Canadians Centre @newcanadianscentre #multiculturalfoodcrawlptbo on Instagram or Facebook. Two posts will be drawn at random to win a $25 Boro gift card.
“One of the things that I think everyone should know is we know how to throw a party,” says Ramoutar. “Come on out. There will be something new that you get to try. The festival is a really good way to build new friendships, but also to discover the world.”
This branded editorial was created in partnership with the New Canadians Centre. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
Vancouver-based rock band Chilliwack (Jerry Adolphe, Ed Henderson, Bill Henderson, and Gord Maxwell) in 2018. The band will perform a free-admission concert at Peterborough Musicfest in Del Crary Park on July 10, 2024. (Photo: Erich Saide)
Peterborough Musicfest has announced the final two musical acts performing free-admission concerts at Del Crary Park this summer, along with two additional performers who are opening for headliners.
Canadian rock band Chilliwack, best known for their string of hits in the 1970s and 1980s, will perform on Wednesday, July 10th. Tribute band The Legends of Motown will perform on Saturday, July 27th.
The festival has also announced Canadian country music singer-songwriter Griffen Palmer will be the special musical guest for Musicfest’s season-opening concert on Saturday, June 29th, headlined by Canadian country music artist Tenille Townes, and Montreal alt-pop artist Dee Holt will open for Toronto dance-pop singer-songwriter Rêve on Wednesday, July 24th.
In addition, the City of Peterborough has announced it will be presenting a fireworks display following Musicfest’s special Canada Day concert featuring The Tragically Hip tribute band Road Apples.
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VIDEO: “Fly at Night” – Chilliwack (2019)
Founded by guitarist and vocalist Bill Henderson, Vancouver’s Chilliwack is considered one of Canada’s greatest rock bands. Between 1970 and 1984, Chilliwack released 12 albums, with their six best-selling songs “My Girl (Gone, Gone, Gone)”, “I Believe”, “Whatcha Gonna Do”, “Fly at Night”, “Crazy Talk”, and “Lonesome Mary”.
Over their career, Chilliwack has earned 15 gold and platinum certifications and Chilliwack was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2019. Although the band split up in 1988, Henderson re-formed it in 1997 and, in 2003, Chilliwack released the live album There and Back.
Chilliwack last performed at Musicfest in 2011.
VIDEO: Legends of Motown promo video
Legends of Motown is a 16-piece tribute band that performs the music of Motown legends including The Supremes, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, The Jackson 5, and Martha and the Vandellas.
Along with stunning vocal performances, their high energy show also features choreography and authentic costumes.
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VIDEO: “Second Guessing” – Griffen Palmer
Raised in Pickering, 28-year-old Griffen Palmer is a rising country music singer and songwriter who grew up in a musical household with a musician father. He began performing as a teenager and, after moving to Ohio for university, honed his chops by performing at local bars.
After moving to Nashville, where he is signed with Big Loud Records, he performed his original song “Second Guessing” on NBC’s songwriting competition series Songland in 2020, winning that episode. In 2023, Palmer released his debut album Unlearn and was nominated for Breakthrough Artist or Group of the Year at the 2023 Canadian Country Music Awards. His songs have been recorded by musicians including Keith Urban, MacKenzie Porter, Jade Eagleson, Tyler Shaw, and more.
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VIDEO: “Fell in Love at School” – Dee Holt
Although she was always interested in music and singing, young Montreal native Dee Holt only decided to pursue her musical career after a intimate performance for her and her boyfriend’s parents moved them to tears. After forming a creative bond with local producer Benjamin Nadeau, she released her first two singles, which landed on Spotify’s Lorem playlist.
In 2022, after signing with Nettwerk Music Group, she released her debut EP When I Close My Eyes, drawing comparisons with Billie Eilish. Her latest EP is the six-single I’ll Be There. Studying art and animation at university, she designs all her own artwork and directs her own music videos.
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Here’s the complete lineup for Peterborough Musicfest’s 37th season:
Tenille Townes (with Griffen Palmer) – Saturday, June 29
Road Apples (Tragically Hip tribute) – Monday, July 1 (followed by fireworks display)
Aysanabee (with Cale Crowe) – Wednesday, July 3
Tim Baker/Great Lake Swimmers – Saturday, July 6
Chilliwack – Wednesday, July 10
I Mother Earth – Saturday, July 13
Metric – Wednesday, July 17
The Beau Dixon Band – Saturday, July 20
Legends of Motown (tribute) – Saturday, July 27
Rêve (with dee holt) – Wednesday, July 24
Down With Webster – Wednesday, July 31
Elton Rohn – Saturday, August 3
Dwayne Gretzky – Wednesday, August 7
Lindsay Ell – Saturday, August 10
Choir! Choir! Choir! – Wednesday, August 14
David Wilcox – Saturday, August 17
For more information about Peterborough Musicfest, including details about upcoming concerts, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca.
kawarthaNOW is proud to be a headline sponsor of Peterborough Musicfest’s 2024 season.
Peterborough Public Health partnered with Trent University to participate in the provincial wastewater surveillance program, with the university's Natural Resources DNA Profiling and Forensic Centre performing the work. Peterborough's board of health has voted to provide funding to Trent University to continue local wastewater surveillance following the Ontario government's recent decision to end the provincially funded wastewater surveillance program. (Photo: Trent University)
Wastewater surveillance for infectious disease will continue in Peterborough, with a decision by the local board of health to fund an existing partnership between Peterborough Public Health (PPH) and Trent University following the Ontario’s government’s recent announcement it is ending Ontario’s wastewater surveillance program.
The decision was made at the board of health’s meeting on Wednesday (June 12) following a presentation of a health unit staff report supported by medical officer of health Dr. Thomas Piggott.
Board of health chair and city councillor Joy Lachica told kawarthaNOW she is pleased with the board’s decision.
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“In the absence of the province’s wastewater surveillance, our board of health has sagely voted to locally provide our community with the data it needs for preparedness and prevention,” Lachica said.
Earlier this month, the Ontario government announced it was ending the $15-million program — which was launched in 2021 during the pandemic and is operated by universities and research sites with funding from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks — on July 31.
The province said it is shutting down the program to “avoid duplication” with a federal wastewater surveillance program.
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Wastewater surveillance is used by public health experts to track and monitor diseases, including COVID-19. This is done by testing community wastewater for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 from infected individuals — called the wastewater signal. The province has traditionally presented the wastewater signal for Ontario, as well as its sub-regions.
PPH — which serves the residents of Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations and the county and city of Peterborough — partnered with Trent University to participate in the provincial wastewater surveillance program, with the university’s Natural Resources DNA Profiling and Forensic Centre led by Dr. Christopher Kyle performing the work.
“We’re so grateful to Dr. Kyle and Trent University for their leadership and offer of partnership in this continued work,” Lachica said.
So pleased that @Ptbohealth Board of Health, with the leadership of Chair @lalalalachica see the value for wastewater surveillance data for COVID & pandemic preparedness & has decided they will continue to support this work & partnership with Dr. Kyle @TrentUniversity locally. pic.twitter.com/pr9GEfbsmP
— Dr Thomas Piggott (He/Him) MD PhD (@twpiggott) June 13, 2024
The day following the health board meeting, Dr. Piggott posted on X (formerly Twitter) that he was “so pleased” that the board of health under Lachica’s leadership supported continuing local wastewater surveillance and the partnership with Trent University.
The medical officer of health’s post has been shared almost 300 times with almost 800 likes, with many commenters urging their own local health units to take similar action.
“Dr. Piggott’s expertise and initiative on this front and our PPH board’s decision is proving to be a beacon to others since announcing our decision,” Lachica said. “Public health units across Ontario are also looking to keep their communities as informed and as safe as possible with new emerging pathogens, and as we face yet another COVID spike just this month.”
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