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.
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“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).
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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.”
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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.
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“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.
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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.
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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.”
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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.”
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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).
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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.”
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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.”
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“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.
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“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.”
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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.”
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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.
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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.
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“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.”
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“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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Cobourg's homeless shelter at 310 Division Street opened in late 2024 with a warming/cooling room and laundry, washroom and shower, and dining facilities on the first floor, 35 emergency shelter beds on the second and third floors, and 10 transitional housing units on the fourth floor. (Photo: Northumberland County)
Northumberland County is reaching out to the business community for representatives to serve on a committee related to the emergency homeless shelter and its operations at 310 Division St. in downtown Cobourg.
The county is accepting applications until Thursday, July 31 from those interested in joining the Community Liaison Committee (CLC) which, according to a media release, is intended to support “the successful delivery of modernized homeless shelter services.”
This particular recruitment effort is focused specifically on strengthening representation from the local business community, ensuring direct representation in addition to the current participation by a business owner on behalf of the Cobourg Downtown Business Improvement Area.
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The original business representative stepped down in May, and the county is looking to fill the vacancy, explained Kate Campbell, director of communications for Northumberland County.
“This is an opportunity for a business owner to provide direct input that will help shape how shelter services continue to integrate into the fabric of our community,” Campbell told kawarthaNOW.
“This is a chance to share perspective, raise concerns, and contribute to balanced solutions that support both the health of the business sector and the well-being of vulnerable residents.”
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This second round of recruitment for the CLC, which follows an initial call for members in fall 2024, seeks to strengthen the committee by welcoming additional members to bring their perspectives and experiences.
The 310 Division St. shelter, owned by the county and operated by Transition House, offers 35 emergency shelter spaces and 10 transitional housing units to help improve pathways out of homelessness for people in need. The facility opened in late 2024 and targets increasing access to shelter services for couples, 2SLGBTQ+ community members, individuals with pets, and people with disabilities.
Up until recently, a drop-in warming room and cooling centre was operating at the shelter. Northumberland County decided to shutter that service in response to numerous concerns expressed by local business owners and residents.
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Some of these concerns were described during a public town hall meeting hosted by the Town of Cobourg on June 17. The following day during its regular council meeting, Northumberland County council passed a motion directing changes to the operation of the emergency shelter.
Those changes included the closure of the ground-floor warming/cooling hub by July 4, the development of options for relocating the warming/cooling hub to another location in the county, and the preparation of a report for the July 30 social services committee meeting outlining the process and timelines to transition the shelter to a higher-barrier model focused on people with low-to-moderate complexity of needs.
As for the committee, it is comprised of approximately 20 volunteers who represent shelter neighbours, community members, people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity, local businesses, and faith organizations. The CLC also includes representation from Cobourg Police Service, town, county and shelter staff, and community partners who work closely with the shelter and its clients.
The committee is an advisory body, providing guidance and feedback to help the county and Transition House “make informed decisions for the shelter’s successful integration within the neighbourhood and community,” according to the release. The CLC meets once a month for members to share information, discuss ideas, and collectively problem-solve concerns.
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While the county said all community members can apply to join the CLC, Northumberland is currently seeking representatives specifically from the local business community, with preference given to business representatives from within a 500-metre radius of 310 Division St.
People interested in applying to join the CLC must be available to volunteer at least two-and-a-half hours per month to attend committee meetings and review materials. The county invites people to complete an expression of interest form by July 31 to begin their application process. All applicants will be required to attend an information session and interview, which will be scheduled at mutually convenient time.
Blue Rodeo co-founder and frontman Jim Cuddy and his band will perform a free-admission concert at Peterborough Musicfest in Del Crary Park on July 5, 2025, featuring songs from his six-album solo career as well as selected Blue Rodeo tunes. (Photo: Christopher Gentle)
If you’re looking for the true measure of musical creative genius, look no further than an artist who has enjoyed a remarkable career as a member of a highly acclaimed ensemble and has fashioned a successful solo career.
More specifically, look no further than Jim Cuddy. Back in 1984 in New York City, the Toronto-born singer-songwriter, in collaboration with guitarist Greg Keelor and keyboardist Bob Wiseman, founded the roots rock band Blue Rodeo.
From the its first show in 1985 at The Rivoli in Toronto to its 2014 awarding of the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award, with a truckload of Juno Awards in between, Blue Rodeo was, and in many ways remains, the poster child of Canadian music success stories.
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Peterborough Musicfest presents The Jim Cuddy Band
When: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 8 p.m. Where: Del Crary Park (100 George St. N., Peterborough) How much: Free admission
Bring your own lawn chairs or blankets (lawn chairs are available to rent). VIP seating available for sponsors. No smoking, alcohol, or pets permitted. There’s no public parking at Del Crary Park, but there’s neighbourhood street parking nearby and ample parking in downtown Peterborough.
But for all his success as a performer and as a songwriter in partnership with Keelor, Cuddy yearned to get his music out there as a solo act, and did just that in 1998 with the release of his debut album All In Time. Now, five solo albums later, Cuddy remains a tour de force on his own while retaining his status as an integral member of the band that he co-founded all those years ago.
On Wednesday, July 9 at Del Crary Park in downtown Peterborough, the artist who continues to enjoy the best of two music worlds will front The Jim Cuddy Band at Peterborough Musicfest. As always, admission to the 8 p.m. concert is free.
While he’s arguably best known and recognized for co-writing and singing Blue Rodeo’s hit songs, such as “Try,” “Lost Together,” and “Head Over Heels,” Cuddy”s debut solo album capitalized on that track record, earning gold status for sales on the strength of the singles “All In Time” and “Disappointment.”
VIDEO: “While I Was Waiting” – Jim Cuddy
Cuddy didn’t rush to release a follow-up album, but when he did in 2006, The Light That Guides You Home proved well worth the wait, again earning gold status.
From 2011 to 2019, three more albums — Skyscraper Soul, Constellation, and Countrywide Soul — more than held their own. Now, five years after the release of the latter, Cuddy is back with more new music in the form of All The World Fades Away, his sixth solo album which debuted just more than a year ago.
It should surprise no one that Cuddy has won just about every accolade available to Canadian musicians. Having won best male vocalist honours at the 1999 Juno Awards, he came home with the 2007 Juno Award for adult alternative album of the year for The Light That Guides You Home.
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In 2013, alongside his friend and longtime collaborator Greg Keelor, Cuddy was appointed an officer of the Order of Canada. Both were also inducted to the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame just last year, an act that begged the question “What took you so long?”
While he has a long way to go to match the 16 albums Blue Rodeo has released and the 11 Juno Awards the band’s creative output has reaped, Cuddy as a solo artist has clearly made quality a priority over quantity. What’s more, according to a 2024 media release from Warner Music Canada about his latest record, Cuddy’s goal as a songwriter has shifted.
“When Blue Rodeo started, I wrote songs with the intention of playing them live,” reflects Cuddy. “But as things have gone along, I write them more as short stories. That kind of evolution takes time and concentration, which I enjoyed with this record.”
VIDEO: “Back Here Again” – Jim Cuddy
“You sort of enter a dream state when you begin writing, and I’ve begun to wonder why some images have stayed with me over the years and others haven’t,” Cuddy says. “So yes, this album is about looking back. I tried to make sure the record is affirming of life as it is now, reflecting how much I like where I’m at today. It’s just … surveying.”
Having paused work on All The World Fades Away to tour and record with Blue Rodeo, Cuddy got his band together in the summer of 2023 to finish the project. Close by, as he has often been, was guitarist Colin Cripps, who co-produced the album with Tim Vesely.
“Colin and I have worked together from the very beginning, so that’s very symbiotic. And Tim, who added percussion and vocals across the record, is brilliant. He helped us decide musical questions.”
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Asked in what section of a record shop All The World Fades Away should take up residence, he answers “Wherever John Prine is filed” — referring to the late American country-folk singer-songwriter who is widely cited as one of the most influential songwriters of his generation,
“There’s something perfect about his songs. They have a straightforward, harmonic structure and are told simply, but they have impact. That’s what I’m going for too.”
Wednesday night’s concert will be preceded at 6:30 p.m. by a performance by Cale Crowe, an indie rock singer-songwriter from Alderville First Nation, under the Cogeco tent near the George Street entrance to Del Crary Park. He’s appearing as part of Musicfest’s new Future Sound Series featuring the talents of nine local performers this summer.
VIDEO: “Scars” – Jim Cuddy
Peterborough Musicfest is presenting 16 free-admission concerts during its 38th season, each staged on Wednesday and Saturday nights until Saturday, August 16th.
Overseen by executive director Tracey Randall and staff, a board of directors, and numerous volunteers, Peterborough Musicfest’s stated mission remains “to provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community.”
For more information on this concert or the 2025 season, visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca or phone the Peterborough Musicfest office at 705-755-1111.
kawarthaNOW is proud to be a headline sponsor of Peterborough Musicfest’s 2025 season.
Kawartha Lakes Mayor Doug Elmslie (far left) participates in the raising of the Pride flag at Kawartha Lakes City Hall in Lindsay on July 8, 2024. Kawartha Lakes Pride kicks off its 10th anniversary Pride Week in 2025 with a flag-raising ceremony on Monday, July 7 at 10 a.m., with the week's celebrations concluding on Saturday in Lindsay with Pride in the Park in Victoria Park followed by a Pride After Dark party at The Wings World. (Photo: Kawartha Lakes Pride)
While June’s Pride Month is over, the rainbow flag will be flying for another week in July in Kawartha Lakes.
Pride Week in the Kawartha Lakes runs from Monday, July 7 to Sunday, July 13. There are several events throughout the week aimed at celebrating the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and promoting inclusivity, diversity, and unity.
Kawartha Lakes Pride organizer Rylee Rae is looking forward to this year’s events, especially with Pride 2025 representing the group’s 10th anniversary.
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“I am most excited to see love prevail within our communities, at every level and in so many ways,” Rae told kawarthaNOW. “We are here, we are queer, and we are thriving.”
The week kicks off with a Pride flag-raising ceremony at 10 a.m. on Monday at Kawartha Lakes City Hall at 26 Francis St. in Lindsay and culminates with the annual Pride in the Park celebration on Saturday, which returns this year from Fenelon Falls to its original location in Lindsay’s Victoria Park in honour of Kawartha Lakes Pride’s 20th anniversary.
“We usually get over 1,500 guests through the day of the event, but we have lots of community supporters as well,” Rae said. “Being partnered next to the Lindsay Farmers’ Market will also drive up our attendance, I suspect.”
“Although Kawartha Lakes Pride has been under new management (for) the past few years, we love to stay true to our name and navigate this initiative throughout the Kawarthas,” Rae said. “The love we felt from Fenelon Falls in previous years has been magical, but we insist on bringing our events to all Kawartha communities. Guiding our initiatives based on community involvement and support directly impacts where we show up.”
Events during Pride Week 2025 in Kawarthas Lakes. (Graphic: Kawartha Lakes Pride)
Reflecting on its accomplishments of the past year, Rae said Kawartha Lakes Pride has connected with several local organizations, including educational organization Ampere Association, which now holds space monthly for ongoing Pride events.
Rae added that the Lindsay and District Chamber of Commerce has “helped us elevate our organization as a true community partner. Kawartha Lakes Pride has also made other important connections with various groups including the United Way and the Edwin Binney Community Garden and Education Centre, and Community Care.
The Kawartha Lakes Public Library will be taking part in Saturday’s Pride in the Park celebration, offering a tent with activities for children, information on library services with a special focus on the Pride collection, a quiet reading area with children’s books for families to enjoy, and simple rainbow flag face painting for all ages.
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The full agenda of events for Kawartha Lakes Pride Week 2025 is listed below.
Monday, July 7
Zumba Dance Party at 7 p.m. at She Shed Fitness (11 Wychwood Cres., Fenelon Falls).
Tuesday, July 8
Drag Queen Story Time with Betty Baker and Butch at 10:30 a.m. at Kindred Coffee (148 Kent St. W., Lindsay).
Pooch Pride Walk at 5:30 p.m. at Adelaide Clinic (1 Adelaide St. N., Lindsay).
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Wednesday, July 9
Queer Trivia from 7 to 9 p.m. at Pie Eyed Monk (8 Cambridge St. N., Lindsay). Register at KLPtrivia.eventbrite.com.
Thursday, July 10
Color Me Proud from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tradewinds Toys & Gifts (110 Kent St. W., Lindsay).
Friday, July 11
Field to Fabulous: A Runway of Inclusion from 3 to 7 p.m. at Edwin Binney Community Garden and Education Centre (50 Mary St. W., Lindsay).
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Saturday, July 12
Pride in the Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Victoria Park (190 Kent St. W., Lindsay).
Pride After Dark at 8 p.m. at The Wings World (34 Lindsay St. S., Lindsay). Tickets for the 19+ event are available at KLPAfterDark25.Eventbrite.com.
For more information about Kawartha Lakes Pride and for updates about Pride Week events, visit facebook.com/KawarthaLakesPride.
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