Members of the Peterborough chapter of Pflag, a national charitable organization founded by parents to help themselves and their family members understand and accept their LGBQIA2S children, gathered at the organization's rainbow bench in Millennium Park on May 17, 2022 to recognize International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia and to remember two past local leaders of the organization. (Photo courtesy of Pflag Peterborough)
Members of the Peterborough chapter of Pflag, a national charitable organization founded by parents to help themselves and their family members understand and accept their LGBQIA2S children, were in Millennium Park on Tuesday (May 17) to recognize International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia and to remember two past local leaders of the organization.
The group gathered at the rainbow bench, located on the park’s walkway near No Frills beside the Nogojiwanong information panels, that Pflag Peterborough donated with the help of the City of Peterborough. The bench includes a plaque honouring the work of the Pflag Peterborough’s past leaders Joyce Barrett and Catherine Ginies.
Joyce Barrett, who had been involved with Pflag since the Peterborough chapter was first organized, was a family physician specializing in obstetrics. She and her husband Dr. John Hambley had two biological children along with several “chosen” daughters. One of their children identified as LGBQIA2S. Barrett took Dianne McKay, the past Pflag Peterborough president, to the first Pflag meeting.
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Catherine Ginies, a co-leader with McKay, also had an child who identified as LGBQIA2S. Ginies, who designed Pflag Peterborough’s first website, was a very active member, working throughout the region and organizing many Pflag events.
“Both Joyce and Catherine were tireless supporters of their children and the LGBQIA2S community,” the organization states in an email provided to kawarthaNOW.
“Both died prematurely, much too young, and are missed by everyone that knew them. Their families and friends are delighted with the Rainbow Bench that Pflag Peterborough purchased together with the City of Peterborough, which we dedicated with a plaque to the memory of Joyce and Catherine, and for the tireless work they did.”
Pflag Peterborough’s rainbow bench, purchased and installed along the Millennium Park walkway in partnership with the City of Peterborough, is dedicated to the memory of two past local leaders of the organization. (Photo courtesy of Pflag Peterborough)
Pflag Canada originated in 1970s’ Toronto, where meetings of non-LGBTQ but welcoming family members were held under the banner of Parents Of Gays (POG). That group eventually amalgamated with Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (FFLAG), a group founded in October 1981. The new organization was rebranded as Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (or Parents FLAG). In recognition of more inclusive language used in the community, Pflag is no longer an acronym but stands on its own as the organization’s name.
Pflag Canada, which operates with the slogan “Family For All,” currently has 59 chapters across Canada. While there is also a U.S. organization called Pflag, which originated in New York City in 1972, Pflag Canada developed independently.
Lisa Couture, owner of Couture Candy PTBO in downtown Peterborough, has expanded her offerings at the popular confectionery shop to include 20 flavours of ice cream from local dairy Central Smith and assorted toppings, as well as featured ice cream cones and bowls. Also coming this summer are custom ice cream sandwiches, with flavours including Dunkaroos and Salt and Vinegar, as well as a birthday cone. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
Business is only getting sweeter for Couture Candy PTBO.
The confectionery shop in downtown Peterborough, known for its candy boxes, candy-grams, and specialty snacks, is now offering customers a side of ice cream with their sweet treats.
Located at 386 George Street North, Couture Candy PTBO recently added an ice cream counter, aptly named Couture Cones PTBO. On Mother’s Day, it launched over 20 delicious Central Smith ice cream flavours and assorted toppings, along with featured ice cream cones and bowls.
Lisa Couture started Couture Candy PTBO in 2019 as an online retailer. After nearly 19 years working in a stressful job as an addictions counsellor in Oshawa, she “wanted to do something fun and kind.” (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
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Also coming this summer are custom ice cream sandwiches, with flavours including Dunkaroos and Salt and Vinegar, as well as a birthday cone.
Ice cream is a welcomed addition to a delectable establishment already well-known to local fans, visitors, and anyone with a sweet tooth.
Owner Lisa Couture believes even a single scoop — like the confections she sells — is a tangible embodiment of kindness and happiness. It also ties to her business’s mantra and one that she lives by: “Being kind is sweet.”
“We love sharing happiness, be it by the scoop or a box of candy delivered directly to your door,” Lisa explains. “We appreciate that oftentimes our products get sent as gifts to people going through unfair and tragic times, and we’re in a position to help brighten their day.”
Lisa Couture opened her downtown Peterborough confectionery shop in October 2020, during the height of the pandemic, after a year selling online orders exclusively through Instagram. She is now also selling ice cream in addition to candy boxes, candy-grams, and specialty snacks. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
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Lisa started Couture Candy PTBO in 2019 and began selling candy-related products online. It was a refreshing change from her job as an addictions counsellor in Oshawa, which she left due to work stress and burnout.
“I worked in a 24-hour non-medical detox facility in a high-stress role,” she recalls. “I was struggling with a lot of anxiety and it was very hard for me to see positivity in the world, having worked in such a toxic environment for nearly 15 years.”
“Instead of living with anxiety and toxic energy, I wanted to do something fun and kind. I was craving positivity in my life and I thought, ‘It has to start with me.'”
Couture Candy PTBO in downtown Peterborough has a wide selection of signature Couture Candy originals, like loose candy, loose candy mix bags, candy-grams, and candy boxes. You can also find British classics, chocolate, and even organic and vegan options. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
Lisa originally ran the business out of her own home, starting with $5 candy-grams delivered through the mail. She eventually added gift boxes stuffed with chocolate and candy treats for special occasions, and collaborated with other small businesses offering thoughtfully curated gift boxes containing unique, quality items.
When pandemic-related closures and physical distancing requirements began in March 2020, Lisa realized she quickly had to shift gears as she sat with a fully-stocked house of Easter inventory.
“I was terrified because I was sitting with thousands of Easter candy-grams and hundreds of candy boxes with no place to go,” she says.
From that supply, Lisa donated 500 Easter candy-grams to local first responders and frontline healthcare workers working in the hospital’s COVID unit as a “gesture of gratitude for their hard work and dedication.”
She then heavily promoted the rest of the confectioneries on the company’s Instagram account and offered contact-free porch pickups to customers.
“Everyone was scared to even go to Walmart to get their kids Easter chocolate bunnies,” she says. “People were franticly messaging me looking to order so they could have somewhat of a normal Easter. I had hundreds of people coming to my porch for weeks before Easter arrived to get my products, which is really what catapulted the business.”
Couture Candy PTBO owner Lisa Couture with some of the hundreds of online orders she fulfilled after one of her TikTok videos went viral on February 25, 2022. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
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After a whirlwind of a year selling online orders exclusively through Instagram, Couture Candy PTBO sales were going so well that Lisa decided to open an enticing, bright-pink storefront on George Street in October 2020 to accommodate the business’ “exponential” growth.
While the height of the pandemic was the demise of many retailers, Lisa saw it as an opportunity. She says she wanted to offer Peterborough something that it didn’t have: marrying gift-giving and kindness to cheer people up.
“It’s incredible when customers use us as an outlet to share their stories of tragedy or sadness,” Lisa explains. “I often hear about someone who has cancer, someone who passed away, someone whose child is sick, or someone who lost a pet. I’m grateful that people are thinking of my business and shopping local when they want to do something nice and show somebody love and kindness in the form of a candy box or a candy-gram.”
Couture Candy PTBO’s main menu features its signature Couture Candy originals, like loose candy, loose candy mix bags, candy-grams, and candy boxes.
You can also find British classics, chocolate, and even organic and vegan options. There’s a corporate gift-giving selection for those looking for a unique way to say thank you to clients or sweets for an event. Customers can also build their own custom candy boxes or bags with assorted items from the shop.
With the wide selection of unique, high-quality confections lining the shelves at Couture Candy PTBO in downtown Peterborough, it’s hard not to feel like a kid in a candy store again. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
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According to Lisa, Couture Candy PTBO is also about scratching a nostalgic itch. No matter which decade you grew up in, there’s something at the candy shop that will bring you back to your childhood — whether it’s Bazooka gum, Lik-M-Aid Fun Dip, Push Pop, Junior Mints, or Cracker Jack.
“For many customers, nostalgia candies instantly bring back vivid childhood memories whenever they see them or eat them,” Lisa says.
Going into its third year, Couture Candy PTBO continues to reap the sweet smells of success. In February, Lisa had to temporarily close her shop for a few days to process hundreds of online orders after one of her TikTok videos went viral.
She says many of her videos attract several thousand views, but this particular video of her filling a large box with candy mix loot bags — the “second ridiculously huge order” for a customer named Becky — has now racked up 1.5 million views.
“I honestly don’t know why that one video went viral as I have done the same video many, many times,” Lisa says. “But it was a major tipping point for us reaching people outside of our local area to showcase some of our items. We realized something special was happening when orders started coming in every two seconds and over a thousand people were browsing our website.”
Lisa adds that those 2.5-lb loose candy mix bags are now Couture Candy PTBO’s biggest seller. They include the Don’t Get Twisted Mix, Spring Into Summer Mix, Pass The Bottle … It’s Been A Hard Year Mix, Gummy Goodness Mix, Sour Power Mix, and many more.
“In one week recently, we did up about 100 mixed bags. I think what people love about them is that the candy is fun, colourful, in your face and one-of-a-kind.”
Couture Candy PTBO owner Lisa Couture stands outside her downtown Peterborough confectionery shop. She says the shop has a nostalgic appeal for customers, offering the same candy they remember from their childhood. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Couture)
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Lisa’s popular TikTok video has allowed her small business to grow at an unprecedented pace. As a result, she has been able to add additional staff at her George Street location.
“Because of that video we were able to help somebody in our community get employment, which we’re very proud of,” Lisa says.
For Lisa, it’s just another way of paying it forward with kindness.
“It feels fantastic being the go-to for kindness gifts in Peterborough,” she reflects. “My outlook on the world was so skewed before because I felt there wasn’t kindness anywhere in the world. But we’re here helping spread kindness in our community and that’s the special part of all this.”
Couture Candy PTBO offers various shipping methods for online orders: pickup, local delivery within Peterborough and Peterborough County, and shipping across Canada and the United States. You can also order items and ice cream pints through the Y Drive Eats app.
You can visit Couture Candy PTBO in downtown Peterborough or shop online for pickup, local delivery within Peterborough and Peterborough County, and shipping across Canada and the United States. You can also order items and ice cream pints through the Y Drive Eats app. (Graphic courtesy of Lisa Couture)
Located at 386 George Street North in Peterborough, Couture Candy PTBO is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. To learn more about the candy shop and to place an order for pickup or delivery, visit their website at couturecandyptbo.ca.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with Couture Candy PTBO. If your business or organization is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
On May 17, 2022, acting Peterborough police chief Tim Farquharson announced in a video statement police would not be laying any charges in the May 10 incident where protestors verbally accosted federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh when he visited the local Ontario NDP candidate in Peterborough. (kawarthaNOW screenshot of YouTube video)
The Peterborough Police Service announced on Tuesday afternoon (May 17) they are not laying any charges in connection with last week’s protest against federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, which saw a small group of protesters accost Singh with verbally abusive language.
In a video statement, acting Peterborough police chief Tim Farquharson said the two investigators assigned to the incident “scoured social media and over the past week have watched and analyzed the clips provided by various sources” and also spoke to the complainants in the matter.
“While the behaviour, actions, and comments are disrespectful and should not be encouraged or condoned, they fail to rise to the threshold of being criminal in nature,” Farquharson said, adding “We recognize that this may not be the news some have wanted to hear.”
The decision of the police that “there are no grounds to proceed with criminal charges at this time” comes on the same day Peterborough mayor Diane Therrien issued a statement condemning the protestors for their behaviour and calling on all political leaders to do the same.
“The fact that exchanges between those with differing opinions continues to be disrespectful and unproductive is troubling and the systemic undercurrent of hate and anger should bother us all as a community,” Farquharson said. “As we have during the past several years, the service continues to encourage residents to be respectful in their expression of opinion.”
In a video statement issued last Thursday (May 12), Farquharson said police would “use every investigative tool possible to deal with (the protestors’) actions.”
VIDEO: Acting Peterborough Police Chief Tim Farquharson
One of the picnic tables painted by a local artist as part of the Town of Cobourg's Painted Picnic Table Program in 2021. (Photo: Town of Cobourg / Facebook)
For the second year in a row, the Town of Cobourg is seeking local artists to paint picnic tables that will be on display throughout the downtown this summer.
The town launched the Painted Picnic Table Program in 2021 in partnership with the Cobourg Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) as an initiative to find new and creative mediums to display original pieces from local artists.
As well as offering additional seating for residents and visitors to support downtown business and restaurants, the painted tables will help to beautify and transform the downtown area by adding colourful and unique displays showcasing the talents of local artists.
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“This creative initiative provides a new opportunity for our community and guests to appreciate the wonderful artistic talent we have here in Cobourg,” says councillor and arts, culture, and tourism coordinator Adam Bureau in a media release. “Following the great response from the program in 2021, we can’t wait to once again see the images and comments we receive of people interacting with the tables.”
The Town of Cobourg will be providing 10 picnic tables and all painting supplies as well as a covered location for selected artists to complete their work. Interested local artists are encouraged to submit their painted picnic table design no later than June 3 to Jackie Chapman-Davis, community events coordinator, by email at jchapmandavis@cobourg.ca.
The artists whose designs are chosen for the 10 picnic tables will each receive a $300 honorarium. Artists looking for additional information about the program can email Chapman-Davis or call her at at 905-373-7976.
Another picnic tables painted by a local artist as part of the Town of Cobourg’s Painted Picnic Table Program in 2021. (Photo: Town of Cobourg / Facebook)
The picnic tables will make their first appearance Friday, July 8th in time for the Downtown Cobourg Pedestrian Friendly Walkway and will remain on display throughout the downtown and waterfront areas for the remainder of the summer.
The Town of Cobourg is also looking for a creative new name for the Painted Picnic Table program. Residents are encouraged to submit their ideas through the town’s online public engagement platform at engagecobourg.ca or to leave a comment on the town’s social media posts by June 10.
Once all submissions have been received, a panel consisting of Bureau and town staff will select the final name.
The Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Associations, the Muskoka Lakes Association, and Safe Quiet Lakes launched the "Be #WakeAware" campaign in 2021 to remind boaters to avoid creating potentially damaging wakes. In 2022, marina operators across Ontario will also be spreading the message. (Photo: Be #WakeAware website)
With the opening of cottage season and the Trent-Severn Waterway this Victoria Day long weekend, the Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations (FOCA) is reminding boaters to “be wake aware” throughout the boating season.
The “Be #WakeAware” campaign — launched in 2021 as a joint initiative of FOCA, the Muskoka Lakes Association, and Safe Quiet Lakes — prompts boaters to watch wake impacts and move any “big wake” fun to an appropriate area of the lake, far away from shorelines.
Potentially damaging wakes are caused by plowing boats leaving a boat launch or marina, or by sudden deceleration or turns near shore. As well as being a danger to swimmers and paddlers, boat wakes can also swamp loon nests, particularly at this time of year when eggs are being laid. According to a University of Windsor study, wakes generated by recreational boats have the potential to erode the shoreline, damage infrastructure like docks, and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
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“With the sixth wave waning, we’re finally hoping for a return to a more normal cottage country experience this year,” says FOCA executive director Terry Rees in a media release. “We all can’t wait to get back on the water this long weekend, but let’s do it safely and responsibly. Everyone needs to be wake aware.”
According to FOCA, the use of Ontario’s waterways has significantly increased over the past two years, with the pandemic closing borders and encouraging people to vacation closer to home. There were 237,000 new pleasure craft operator cards issued in 2020 and nearly 200,000 issued last year.
Boaters need to understand the size of their wake during displacement (travelling low in the water) and transition (with the bow up) to getting on plane (coasting with little drag). To be wake aware, look behind your boat to ensure you minimize the impact of your wake on shorelines and docks. Always reduce speed near shore and when approaching narrows. Position passengers throughout the boat to reduce the time spent in transition and get on plane as soon as possible. Take waterski, surf, and wakeboard fun 200 metres or more away from shorelines.
VIDEO: Be #WakeAware
This year, marina operators across Ontario are also coming on board as marine ambassadors for the “Be #WakeAware” campaign, spreading the word at the water’s edge to both new and long-time boaters.
“A lot of people don’t realize when they whip out of here, how much damage their wake does to docks and other boats,” says Dawn Campbell of Balsam RPM in Coboconk, one of the first marinas in the Kawarthas to sign on to the campaign.
Every lockstation on the Trent-Severn Waterway forms part of a historic navigation system that connects Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay. Parks Canada maintains and operates these national historic sites to make travel possible for boaters and paddlers along 386 kilometres of waterway. (Photo: Trent-Severn Waterway Historic Site / Parks Canada)
In a return to pre-pandemic times, the Trent-Severn Waterway will open for navigation in time for the Victoria Day long weekend. For the past two years, the waterway has opened after the long weekend.
Lockstations will be open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for the entire weekend, including Friday (May 20) and Victoria Day (May 23).
After May 23 and until June 19, lockstations will be open from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday to Sunday. From June 20 to September 5, they will be open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday to Sunday.
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Bookings for reservable camping, oTENTIks, Ôasis, and the Rosedale cabin can be made on the Parks Canada reservation service at reservation.pc.gc.ca/Trent-SevernWaterway.
However, there are still some pandemic restrictions in place for the 2022 season.
Capacity for camping at lockstations is at the discretion of the lockmaster who will consider the requirement for appropriate physical distancing.
In addition, drive-up camping will not be offered on the Trent-Severn Waterway until further notice.
Mayor Diane Therrien delivers a statement on behalf of Peterborough city council outside city hall on May 17, 2022, in which she condemned the behaviour of protestors during federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh's visit to Peterborough the previoius week. Also pictured are city councillors Henry Clarke, Keith Riel, Kemi Akapo, Stephen Wright, and Kim Zippel. (Photo: Paul Rellinger / kawarthaNOW)
Peterborough mayor Diane Therrien has spoken out strongly against the “ugly, unacceptable attack” that greeted federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh during a stop in Peterborough last week in support of local NDP provincial candidate Jen Deck, saying “Peterborough is better than this.”
Last Tuesday (May 10), as Singh was leaving Deck’s George Street campaign office, he was aggressively threatened and insulted by a small group of protestors who called him, among other things, a “f**cking traitor” and a “lying piece of sh*t.”
Some of the group showed Singh their middle finger and yelled “go f*ck yourself.”
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Speaking in front of City Hall Tuesday morning (May 17), with councillors Henry Clarke, Keith Riel, Kemi Akapo, Stephen Wright, and Kim Zippel standing behind her in a show of council unity, Therrien minced no words.
“This was not a protest or act of civil disobedience,” she said.
“Mr. Singh was targeted and physically harassed as he left the campaign office and walked to his vehicle. People yelled at him, insulted him, and swore at him.”
Noting “This incident is one of many that our and other communities have been subjected to in recent months,” Therrien said “The purpose of this behaviour is to intimidate.”
“It is to incite others to join in the rage, anger, and violence. It is intended to disrupt our freedom to safely and securely participate in the democratic process. It is to distract us from working together to address the issues that truly matter and are increasingly urgent for all of us — climate change, mental health, drug addiction, child poverty, housing affordability, the list goes on. These are deliberate, and very damaging, distractions.”
6) More up close video as Jagmeet Singh left the building where you can REALLY hear the disgusting things the crowd is saying. Might not be safe for work, so watch the volume before you listen to it at. #ptbopic.twitter.com/QjytzTayTa
Saying “We are better than this … the City of Peterborough is better than this,” Mayor Therrien added “We must all be better than this” before calling on political leaders across Canada “to stand with the good people of Peterborough and condemn these tactics.”
“To refuse to be intimidated and coerced into appeasing or collaborating in any way with those who are terrorizing our democratic processes. To say that this terror must stop now for the good of our country and for the protection of our democratic freedoms. To say nothing is a choice. To not clearly, forcefully and repeatedly condemn these tactics is to be complicit.”
Therrien concluded by revealing that city council will bring forward a motion at its next meeting (on May 24) “to invite Mr. Singh back to our city, to show solidarity, to stand united with him, and to let him know that we are better than this.”
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Following the mayor’s statement, longtime city councillor and Peterborough mayoral candidate Henry Clarke told kawarthaNOW that he and his council colleagues are “appalled by what went on.”
“Racism has no place in this city. Abuse of elected officials has no place. The values that those demonstrators displayed are not Peterborough values,” Clarke said.
“It’s almost as if it (protesting) has become a fad thing to do. But it’s not just in Peterborough. It’s going on all over the country. I don’t like the focus on Peterborough, as if somehow we are typical of this thing. We’re not. There were 40 or 50 people that did something terrible, but there were 84,000 people that didn’t.”
Speaking to the increasing vitriol displayed by protesters, and the resulting divisiveness, Clarke pointed to a few reasons for it.
“I think, in part, it’s COVID and the isolation, and also the anonymity of social media where you can say just about anything. I call it anti-social media.”
As for the protest making national headlines, Clarke expressed frustration.
“I’m getting real tired of us getting kicked around like that. It’s not our city. It’s a small group.”
In Ottawa the day following the protest, Singh addressed the reception he received, terming it one of his “worst experiences” in politics.
“There were some folks who were saying some really bad, some really horrible, things,” recounted Singh.
“Some folks were saying ‘Hope you die’ and things along that nature. (There was) a lot of aggression and violence in terms of the behaviour and demeanour.”
“There is a level of polarization that is going on in politics which is troubling,” said Singh.
“It shouldn’t be that someone has to be physically trained in martial arts and be able to deal with conflict to be a politician.”
He added that while it’s “absolutely necessary for people to express dissatisfaction,” his experience was “something really troubling.”
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The protest was organized by Roy Asseltine and Nicole Comber — owners of Peterburgers, a burger restaurant that was shut down last December for four months for violating public health restrictions — shortly after they found out Singh would be arriving at Deck’s campaign office.
Asseltine and Comber posted a video on social media asking protesters to come to Deck’s campaign office. A “call to action” was also posted on the “Hold Fast” Facebook group.
Comber live streamed part of the protest on Facebook, and other videos taken by protesters’ were circulated on social media.
Despite previous incidents involving Asseltine and Comber, including a raucous grand reopening celebration of Peterburgers in April that led to charges under the city’s noise by-law, there was no police presence during the protest.
The day after the protest, Peterborough police posted on Twitter they were unaware Singh was in Peterborough and had received no calls for service.
On May 12, acting Peterborough police chief Tim Farquharson confirmed, in a YouTube statement, that police are “actively investigating” a complaint lodged in relation to the actions of the protestors.
“Anyone seeing the video should find it disheartening, morally unacceptable, and lacking in respect each resident and visitor deserves,” said Farquharson, adding “”Your (protestors’) actions and belief systems are reprehensible, unconscionable, and, in some cases, criminal.”
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Speaking to criticism of his department’s non-presence at the campaign stop, Farquharson pointed to a lack of resources as the culprit.
“Due to our staffing shortages, we’re not always able to engage in pro-active policing patrols,” he said, adding “We also understand that public safety is of paramount importance, and encourage residents to contact us with their concerns or any evidence that could aid in our investigations.”
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On Tuesday afternoon (May 17), Farquharson issued a statement that investigators had reviewed all available evidence and concluded there are no grounds to proceed with criminal charges at this time.
“While the behaviour, actions, and comments are disrespectful and should not be encouraged or condoned, they fail to rise to the threshold of being criminal in nature,” Farquharson said.
The RCMP is also looking into the incident, with force deputy commissioner Michael Duheme terming the reception Singh received “unacceptable.”
On May 12, he told the House of Commons public safety committee “We’re following up on it to determine what can be done.”
Despite the threatening reception he received, Singh subsequently posted on Twitter his thanks to “everyone that has reached out” to him in the aftermath.
“I want to say especially say to the people of Peterborough — I have visited many times and I know your community is filled with good people who want the best for each other,” he wrote, adding “Peterborough, I love you.”
This story has been updated with information from a Peterborough police statement issued on May 17 about their investigation into the incident.
Since 1965, the Peterborough Theatre Guild at 364 Rogers Street has been staging award-winning ommunity theatre at the Guild Hall at 364 Rogers Street, with larger productions taking place at Showplace Performance Centre. (Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Theatre Guild)
For the first time in its 57-year history, the Peterborough Theatre Guild is hosting a spring fundraiser in support of the award-winning community theatre company.
The musical celebration called “The Heart of The Song” takes place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 16th and Friday, June 17th at the Guild Hall at 364 Rogers Street in Peterborough’s East City.
Directed and produced by singer-songwriter and actress Kate Suhr, who is also a member of the Guild’s board, “The Heart of The Song” will feature prominent Peterborough performers and theatre supporters including Suhr, Linda Kash, Shay Burd, Indigo Chesser, Stephen Cullen, Lisa Devan, Dan Duran, Beth McMaster, Marsala Lukianchuk, Wayne Robinson, Jane Werger, and Gillian Wilson, accompanied by musicians Curtis Cronkwright, Justin Hiscox, Sam Quinn, and Saskia Tomkins.
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The Peterborough Theatre Guild usually supports its operations through ticket sales. While the Guild’s much-delayed production of the musical Annie was finally staged at Showplace Performance Centre earlier this spring, it was the Guild’s first show since the pandemic began.
“The pandemic has had an indelible impact on, not just one or two, but nearly three lost seasons of the arts in Peterborough,” reads a media release from the Peterborough Theatre Guild.
“Not only does this have an inexplicable effect on our theatrical venues, creators, and players in an artistic season, it has left us with absence from what is a wellspring to the soul — that is, the stage, and experiencing it together. The Guild needs our support now more than ever.”
“The Heart of The Song”, a musical celebration in support of the Peterborough Theatre Guild, takes place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 16th and Friday, June 17th at the Guild Hall at 364 Rogers Street in Peterborough’s East City. (Graphic courtesy of the Peterborough Theatre Guild)
Tickets for “The Heart of The Song” are $30 for adults and $20 for students, and are available now by calling the Guild at 705-745-4211 or online at peterboroughtheatreguild.com.
The Peterborough Theatre Guild is the only producing theatre company in the region that owns its own theatre, located at 364 Rogers Street in Peterborough. Formerly St. Luke’s Anglican Church, the building was gutted by fire in 1959 and a group of local theatre enthusiasts raised the funds to purchase the old church.
After completing extensive renovations of the former church building, the troupe staged its first play just a few years later. In 1965, they incorporated as the Peterborough Theatre Guild and have been performing ever since.
For the first time since the pandemic began, the spring opening event at the Ecology Park Nursery on May 21, 2022 will feature many annuals and veggies grown by students in the horticultural program at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School. (Photo courtesy of GreenUP)
Hi there! Vern Bastable here at Ecology Park. Everyone at GreenUP is excited to once again be preparing for our annual spring opening event this year! Gardening season is upon us, and we’re all ready to start fresh with some new shrubs, trees, and seedlings.
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s column is by Vern Bastable, Director of GreenUP Ecology Park and Landscape Programs.
The annual spring opening event is Saturday, May 21st from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the GreenUP Ecology Park Native Plant & Tree Nursery. While Ecology Park is located at 1899 Ashburnham Drive, the nursery is accessible only by foot from the parking lot at Beavermead Park. Vehicles can enter Ecology Park from Ashburnham Drive for compost and mulch pickup only.
Sorry, but there is no parking within the park.
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The Ecology Park Nursery is known as one of the best local sources for native plants, with over 150 types of edible and native varieties of plants, shrubs, and trees.
For the first time since the pandemic began, the spring opening event will also feature many annuals and veggies grown by students in the horticultural program at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just entertaining the thought of your first green thumb, there’s always something to learn and enjoy at the Ecology Park Nursery.
Landowners can keep their local “neighbourghwoods” green and vibrant by adding appropriate native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers to their properties. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
This year, before you go for the same old annuals or succumb to impulse-buying the first fancy flower that catches your eye, we’ve got something easier and better for you to consider.
Here’s the thing that many people don’t realize: selecting the right native species for your garden can deliver more beauty and benefits with less labour, less maintenance, and less cost than some common approaches to using introduced species and more cost-intensive landscaping.
Using native species allows you to enjoy your yard and garden while also investing in the future of your property and restoring nearby nature.
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Introduced or non-native species, by definition, do not belong here. Those introduced species can also introduce you to a lot of undesirable costs and drawbacks. They can demand extra attention and resources from you because they are not accustomed to the weather and soil of this region. They may also not play nicely with native species and pollinators. All of this together can increase the maintenance needs for your entire landscaping plan.
Maybe it’s just me, but I enjoy gardens and landscapes that give back in more ways than one.
Planting smarter, not harder, means choosing native species appropriate to your landscape. These species have developed complex evolutionary relationships with other native species. Even better, planting a diverse range of native species can create a vibrant legacy in your corner of wilderness that anticipates future climate changes.
A native bumblebee enjoys the nectar of a Dolgo Crabapple sapling for sale at the Ecology Park Nursery. Trees that bloom in early spring are crucial for native pollinators. The Dolgo crabapple provides relatively sweet fruit and easily cross-pollinates with other apple trees. (Photo: Leif Einarson)The Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) blooms in one of the demonstration gardens at GreenUP Ecology Park. The early blossoms of the redbud attract nectar-seeking insects and butterflies, while the seeds bring in songbirds like the chickadee. Eastern Redbuds prefer moist, well-drained and fertile soils, but can tolerate a range of soil conditions. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
Well-chosen native species can augment your property for decades to come in several ways: restore and protect local habitats, create vibrant landscaping that is often easier to care for, add property value, protect your home from flooding, draw in local birds and critters for your viewing enjoyment, reduce the cost of utilities (like heating, cooling, and water usage), and, last but not least, fight climate change.
Well-chosen native species can also help out during those extreme droughts and floods we’re seeing more regularly. The robust root systems of some native species help them survive long periods without rain. Those same root systems also soak up the rain during heavy rainfall events, preventing runoff and erosion that can damage your property and impact water quality.
Come get some tips from our team at Ecology Park Nursery’s spring opening event on May 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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If you have more questions, remember that the Ecology Park Nursery is open all spring and summer into the early fall, right up until closing on October 7. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday to Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
All proceeds from sales at the Ecology Park Nursery support GreenUP’s non-profit programming in communities throughout Peterborough and the Kawarthas.
The American beech (Fagus grandifolia) at the entrance to Ecology Park Nursery is leafing out in time to welcome visitors at the spring opening event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 21, 2022. The American beech prefers acidic, loamy, and moist soil in full sun. (Photo: Leif Einarson)
After going virtual last year due to the pandemic, the 2022 IG Wealth Management Walk For Alzheimer's returns as an in-person event on May 28 at Trent University, with participants aiming to walk 10,740 steps and raise $107,400 to support the work of the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton. If they prefer, participants can also walk 10,740 step over several days at their own pace. (Photo courtesy of Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton)
Heather Marriott says she will never forget where she was and, more notably, what she heard on July 22, 2020.
“The doctor said ‘Your mother has Alzheimer’s’,” recalls the Roseneath resident, adding “Those are four words that just ripped my heart out. It was devastating to say the least.”
“I work in a health care-related field, so I have some knowledge of Alzheimer’s and dementia. I tried to prepare as much I could, and tried to prepare my dad, my sister and brother, and especially my kids. The worst-case scenario was that it was Alzheimer’s, but it was all theory until you hear the words.”
What followed was something that thousands of families have done when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s — the family rallied big time around its matriarch, Sheila Surerus.
VIDEO: Register for the 2022 IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s
No better example of that can be found than its participation in the 2021 Walk For Alzheimer’s that saw Team Surerus raise about $14,000 for the work of the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton — the highest amount raised by any team that participated.
A year later, Team Surerus is back at it, fundraising for the 2022 walk at Trent University on Saturday, May 28th. Team members’ purple T-shirts, emblazoned with Forget-Me-Not flowers and the words Team Surerus, are ready to go.
After registering, teams will walk 10,740 steps around the Justin Chiu Stadium track — one step for each person currently living with dementia in the region.
According to event organizer Ryan Arnold, the local society’s donor relations coordinator, last year’s walk raised just under $100,000. In keeping with the 10,740 steps goal, it’s hoped $107,400 will be raised this time around with IG Wealth Management again on board as the title sponsor.
“I’m counting down the days,” says Arnold, noting 130 participants were registered as of May 5, most as members of 21 teams and the remainder as individuals. Last year at this time, 80 had signed up.
Wealth Management Walk For Alzheimer’s, walking for Heather Marriott’s mother Sheila Surerus who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2020. (Photo courtesy of Team Surerus)
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While the centre of the event universe will be at Trent University on May 28, Arnold notes participants can opt to get in their 10,740 steps over the course of several days — “Whatever fits their schedule and their physical abilities.”
All money raised, adds Arnold, goes directly to support the local society’s work, mostly to the provision of programs and services. The need, he adds, is clear.
“Our region has one of the highest percentages of dementia in Ontario,” he points out. “Anyone you talk to knows someone who has it, or has been affected by it. Everyone has some kind of story, some kind of connection, to Alzheimer’s.”
Marriott certainly knows that to be true when it comes to her mother.
“We kind of suspected something wasn’t right, probably at least two years before her actual diagnosis,” she says, describing the progression of the disease that is the most common type of dementia.
“She was always very generous and very involved in the community,” Marriott recalls. “She put everyone else’s needs before her own. She was very active. But her personality started to change. She was short with people. She was impatient. She was forgetting things.”
“She had gone through a lot of stress for a few years, so we kept explaining it away. It got to a point where it was like ‘Okay, this is not normal stress.’ Our gut instinct was there’s something wrong. Has she had a stroke? Is there a brain clot? There’s something going on that’s not normal for her.”
IG Wealth Management is once again the title sponsor of the 2022 Walk For Alzheimer’s. (Photo courtesy of Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton)
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That was confirmed when Surerus was diagnosed at age 68 following a doctor’s referral to the Kawartha Centre, a Peterborough healthy aging-focused facility where her memory was assessed.
“You picture someone with Alzheimer’s and it’s someone that’s frail and elderly,” says Marriott. “If you meet my mom, she presents so well you would never know that she has Alzheimer’s.”
“The people that are living with her and seeing her day-to-day have seen the changes in her but, to this day, if you met my mom, she would carry on a perfectly normal conversation. You wouldn’t have any idea that there’s a problem with her memory.”
Describing the current level of her mom’s Alzheimer’s as “fairly mild to moderate,” Marriott acknowledges there’s a rough road ahead — particularly for her father.
“It’s been hard on him. This isn’t something you sign up for when you get married. It’s a learning experience for us all, but he’s really been a champ.”
“We try not to look too far ahead. We know that functioning-wise, it’s not going to get any better. We need to make the most of every day. Our family is very close. She has a huge support group. And she’s involved with the Kawartha Centre and involved in a research study, so she’s on an experimental drug. There’s a little bit of hope that taking part in that study may delay the inevitable.”
Many participants in the annual Walk For Alzheimer’s will be walking on behalf of a loved one who is living with Alzheimer’s. (Photo courtesy of Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton)
In the meantime, Marriott has made it her business to learn as much as she can about dementia as she can. The local society, she says, has been “amazing” in terms of education and support provided.
“I thought I knew a lot about dementia and Alzheimer’s but I had no idea. They do an online Minds In Motion webinar. It’s partly brain exercises and things that the person with Alzheimer’s and their caregiver can do together. Mom takes part and quite enjoys it.”
On May 28, Surerus’ family and friends will actually do two walks, first getting together in Roseneath at the fairground track “for those who can’t get up to Peterborough” before heading to Trent University for the main event.
As she reflects on the 2021 experience, that saw Team Surerus walk in Roseneath only as the regular event was held virtually only due to the pandemic, Marriott is buoyed by the memory of her mom’s happiness over simply being out and about with her family and friends.
“She was like a kid in a candy store. It was so great to see a permanent smile on her face all day. Getting pictures with everybody. Being herself.”
Teams and individuals can register for the 2022 IG Wealth Management Walk For Alzheimer’s until May 28, when the walk takes place at Trent University. (Photo courtesy of Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton)
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As for the 2022 walk, close to $27,000 — 24 per cent of the walk goal — had already been raised by the first week of May. Arnold says his focus now is on providing support to participants, adding teams and individuals can register right to up to walk day.
To register for the 2022 IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s, visit www.walklocal.ca, where donations to participating teams and individuals can also be made. Meanwhile, donations can be made directly to Team Surerus at www.alzgiving.ca/goto/Team-Surerus.
Whatever the outcome of the 2022 walk in terms of dollars raised, Arnold says the value of the heightened awareness piece can’t be underestimated.
“Not everyone knows we exist or what we do, so it’s really important to keep getting our name out there and let people know that we’re here,” he explains.
VIDEO: Who are you walking for?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and progressively worsens. It is the cause of an estimated 60 to 70 per cent of dementia diagnoses, with over 500,000 Canadians currently living with dementia.
The most common early symptom is short-term memory loss or remembering recent conversations, details, and events. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include problems with language, disorientation, mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioural issues.
For more information about the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton and the services it provides, visit alzheimer.ca/pklnh.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton. If your business or organization is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
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