At its quarterly meeting at the Flato Academy Theatre in Lindsay on September 3, 2026, 100 Men of Kawartha Lakes donated $12,291.59 to Camp Kirk, a non-profit charitable organization offering recreational programs for neurodivergent children and youth. The collective philanthropy group also donated $2,500 to the Community Fund of Fenelon Falls and, in the absence of a third charity that was unable to attend the meeting, donated $2,500 to the new Forever Fund, a permanent investment fund being established by 100 Men of Kawartha Lakes through the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes. (Photo: 100 Men of Kawartha Lakes)
100 Men of Kawartha Lakes has donated a total of $17,291.59 to two local charities and a new permanent investment fund following its latest quarterly meeting.
The collective philanthropy group met September 3 at FLATO Academy Theatre in Lindsay, where members voted to award $12,291.59 to Camp Kirk and $2,500 to the Community Fund of Fenelon Falls.
A further $2,500 was directed to the group’s new Forever Fund, bringing the total distributed following the meeting to $17,291.59.
Advertisement - content continues below
At each quarterly meeting, members donate $102 ($100 plus an administration fee) and three nominated registered charities are drawn at random. Representatives from the selected organizations are invited to make brief presentations about their work and how they would use a donation, after which members vote on which charity will receive the largest contribution.
At the September meeting, only two of the three selected charities — Camp Kirk and the Community Fund of Fenelon Falls — were able to attend, with members voting to provide Camp Kirk with the largest donation of $12,291.59. The Community Fund of Fenelon Falls received $2,500.
Located in Kirkfield, Camp Kirk is a non-profit charitable organization offering recreational programs for neurodivergent children and youth, including those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, learning disabilities, and other exceptionalities.
Advertisement - content continues below
With the third selected charity unable to attend, another $2,500 was directed to the new Forever Fund, a permanent investment fund being established by 100 Men of Kawartha Lakes through the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes.
According to a media release, a recent member survey found a large majority supported creating the fund.
Regular quarterly charitable giving will remain separate, with a working group now developing details about how the permanent fund will operate.
Advertisement - content continues below
The September meeting also brought the group’s membership to 173.
“This group brings together a diverse group of men from across the Kawartha Lakes — men who don’t always have the time to give back to their community, but can give $100 knowing it goes directly back to local registered charities,” said 100 Men Kawartha Lakes member Brad Campkin. “The simplicity of it is what makes it work.”
The group is now hoping to attract another 27 members to reach its goal of 200 and is inviting prospective members to its next quarterly meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, December 3 at the Fenelon Falls Legion.
Advertisement - content continues below
If membership reaches 200, the group plans to vote on whether to continue operating as a single Kawartha Lakes-wide organization or divide into local chapters serving Fenelon Falls, Lindsay, and Bobcaygeon.
Founded in 2018, 100 Men of Kawartha Lakes meets four times a year to pool members’ donations for registered charities serving the Kawartha Lakes region.
The group has donated more than $364,000 to local charities since its founding.
"Climate action is good for business." Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Brenda Whitehead (middle) with Peterborough County economic development manager Rhonda Keenan (left) and Jigsaw Organizing Solutions founder and Women's Business Network of Peterborough treasurer Adeilah Dahlke (right) celebrating sustainable leaders in the community at an event hosted by Green Economy Peterborough in June 2026. (Photo: Heather Doughty)
Each week, GreenUP provides a story related to the environment. This week’s story is by guest author Brenda Whitehead, President and CEO, Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce.
On any given day, the heartbeat of the local economy is prevalent in the small rituals of daily life throughout Peterborough and the Kawarthas. The early morning coffee lines. Trucks delivering goods to industrial parks. Visitors wandering a local centre after a day on the water.
These patterns don’t exist in a vacuum. They sit inside a larger system: an interdependency of air, water, land, and community.
When floods close rural roads, when power is knocked out for days, or when heat waves strain local infrastructure, the impacts are immediate. For businesses, this shows up in lost shifts, cancelled events, delayed shipments, and higher operational costs.
Advertisement - content continues below
To maintain a vibrant economy, sustainability is no longer a “nice to have,” but rather it is how companies should plan for stability and growth.
At the Chamber of Commerce for Peterborough and Kawarthas, the links between the environment and the economy arise in conversations every day. There are discussions about how to manage increasing energy costs, what climate impacts might mean for tourism on local lakes, or how businesses can compete for employees who care deeply about climate and community wellbeing.
These are environmental questions, but they are also economic development questions.
GreenUP’s energy manager Clara Blakelock shares small business energy efficiency strategies at a recent event co-hosted with Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, which is supporting local businesses to “grow green” by partnering with the Green Economy Peterborough program to deliver a series of sustainability workshops. (Photo: Rebekkah Hyams / GreenUP)
A healthy local environment and a thriving local economy are two sides of the same coin.
Clean water supports agriculture on the farmlands surrounding the city and tourism on the Trent-Severn Waterway. Tree-lined streets and connected trails make downtowns more walkable and attractive for customers, visitors, and staff. Reliable infrastructure keeps resources, goods, and people moving even as weather grows less predictable.
Protecting and restoring the ecosystems of the Kawarthas protects the conditions that let local businesses flourish.
Advertisement - content continues below
This connection is particularly clear in workforce attraction and retention.
Those who have chosen the Peterborough region for school, work, or to raise a family point to the rivers, lakes, parks, and trails as features they were drawn to. People of all ages want to live and work in communities with clean air and nearby green space.
And increasingly, employees want to feel proud of their employer’s environmental record. Businesses that can point to real climate and sustainability action — even modest steps — have an advantage in attracting and keeping talent.
Ernie Adams of Charlotte Products and Cabinetree’s Laurel Angel and Amelia Morris joined GreenUP for a Trans Canada Trail tree planting at GreenUP’s Ecology Park in October 2025. Both businesses are Green Economy Peterborough and Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce members that have made sustainability part of their mandate, which is a commitment employers increasingly link to employee pride and retention. (Photo: Tegan Moss / GreenUP)
At the same time, many local businesses feel stuck between green ambition and being overwhelmed. They want to “do better,” but tight margins and competing priorities get in the way. At times, sustainability can seem like something only large companies can afford.
The reality for small businesses is that growing green can start with practical, incremental steps. One business might begin with upgrading the lighting in its storefront. Another might rethink packaging for products sold at local markets. Others still might support cycling or transit for their staff and customers.
What matters is not that every business takes the same big step. What matters is that each business takes one step, learns from it, shares what it learns with others, and when ready, takes another.
Advertisement - content continues below
There is much to be gained by reaching out and asking questions. Business peers and business service organizations can help with finding solutions.
Across Peterborough and the Kawarthas, local organizations, municipalities, and community partners are already working together to implement environmentally healthier measures that protect businesses and the community; shifting what’s normal and expected across the regional economy.
The health of the local economy and the health of the local environment are inseparable. Aligning economic ambition with environmental responsibility protects what makes this region special — and builds the conditions for it to thrive, now and into the future.
That is how Peterborough and the Kawarthas will grow green together.
Peterborough and Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce is a member of Green Economy Peterborough, a GreenUP program and business network that supports local organizations in reducing their environmental impact. To learn more and subscribe to the Green Economy Peterborough newsletter, visit http://greeneconomypeterborough.ca.
Located in the Township of North Kawartha in Peterborough County, Northeys Bay Road is a 13-kilometre county road that runs along Stony Lake from Highway 28 in Woodview in the west to County Road 6 in the east. While the scenic and winding road is popular with drivers, including motorcylists, local residents say drivers often exceed the posted speed limits. (Photo: Google Maps)
Following two serious motorcycle crashes on Northeys Bay Road this summer, residents who live along the Peterborough County road are calling on drivers to slow down, while local officials are teaming up to monitor and evaluate the road’s safety.
Located in the Township of North Kawartha, Northeys Bay Road (County Road 56) is a 13-kilometre winding road that runs along Stony Lake from Highway 28 in Woodview in the west to County Road 6 in the east.
Given that it links two major county roads, follows a scenic landscape, and provides access to Petroglyphs Provincial Park, the road is popular with tourists, motorcyclists, and trucks — all of which, according to Northeys Bay resident Christine Robson, often go above the posted speed limit.
“People just don’t pay attention. They go way too fast,” says Robson, who has lived on the road near the provincial park for nearly 10 years. “We need to do something.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Fatal motorcycle crash prompts OPP to contact Peterborough County’s engineering department
On July 25, a 54-year-old Oshawa motorcyclist died after crashing on Northeys Bay Road near Fire Route 19.
The fatality prompted Peterborough County OPP inspector and detachment commander Chris Galleazza to contact Doug Saccoccia, Peterborough County’s general manager of engineering and construction, to discuss conducting an operational review of the roadway.
In recent years, the engineering department in Peterborough County has partnered with OPP road safety initiatives, focusing on engineering, enforcement, education, and evaluation.
“It was a proactive measure,” Galleazza says. “We just wanted to make sure we were gathering all the information to inform the investigation (into the collision on July 25). Community safety is a target for both the county and us, so if we can do anything to prevent further collision, this will be the information that informs those changes.”
Just over a month later, a 23-year-old Ottawa motorcyclist and his passenger, a 22-year-old Peterborough woman, were seriously injured after their motorcycle failed to negotiate a bend in the road, crossed into the oncoming lane, and collided with a pickup truck.
Advertisement - content continues below
County engineers will assess speed limits, signage, and road conditions and collect vehicle volume count and speed data
The operational review, which is currently underway, is examining the road from a technical engineering perspective. It will evaluate whether the speed limits are appropriate, whether the number of signs is sufficient, if all pavement marking are clear, the curvature of the road, if guardrails are required, the visibility of hills and driveways, and other concerns.
Vehicle volume counts and speeds will be collected through pneumatic traffic counter tubes and mobile radar speed signs.
“That’s the one you’ve probably seen around town,” Saccoccia says. “It says your speed and that’s to educate drivers as well. If they’re speeding, it’ll flash and say slow down. In the background, it actually is collecting data and that data is very valuable because the engineering team evaluates it to see if we have an issue. If so, we can pass that along to Chris and his team and he can look at it and agree to do potentially some targeted enforcements.”
Conducted over two to three months, the operational review will result in the engineering team generating conclusions and recommendations regarding improvements that would be implemented through the county’s operations team.
“When we review the data, if it was a high concern of speed, then we would look at other tools,” Saccoccia explains.
“It could lead to additional enforcement or a safety campaign. We’ve partnered with OPP on certain areas of safety campaigns with a bit of social media and explanations for residents to see and use. There are some tools we have depending on how the review goes, but the next step after the review is consider the recommendations and then implementing those findings.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Operational review could trigger road safety audit as OPP conducts focused patrols
The operational review could also trigger an even more thorough road safety audit, which considers human factors on the road’s safety in addition to its engineering. This audit would involve other partners, including the paramedics, members of the public, and active transportation groups, to identify issues and hazards and then identify recommendations for mitigation to reduce road collisions.
In 2024, a road safety audit was completed in the Municipality of Trent Lakes for County Road 507 from County Road 36 to Mississauga Dam Road and surrounding the Cavendish Community Centre. The audit teams identified and assigned risk ratings to 63 issues and hazards.
While the safety audit, if required, could take upwards of a year to complete in full, Galleazza assures residents the OPP is conducting focused patrols on Northeys Bay Road in the meantime. He encourages residents to report driving complaints to the OPP through the online reporting tool at opp.ca/index.php?id=132.
“We would encourage our community members to contact us or file an online report because that information will give us time, date, and what is actually occurring,” he says.
“We only have finite resources, but Peterborough County is a large community. We as a police can’t be everywhere, but the community is, so they’re our eyes and ears. When they’re seeing things happen, they can contact us on our non-emergency line and we can gather that information and put a plan together.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Residents post their own signs as North Kawartha mayor urges drivers to respect speed limits
Taking things into their own hands, residents like Robson on Northeys Bay Road have been putting up signs encouraging drivers to slow down, some of which have been removed by Peterborough County’s engineering team.
Saccoccia says the signs must be removed if they have inappropriate language or pose a danger to drivers. Similarly, memorials will be removed if they are not safely located.
“We just want to make sure it’s in a safe spot and there are some size requirements, but we do allow them,” Saccoccia says.
“It’s best to always reach out (to Peterborough County) and understand the requirements and then, as our staff are very friendly, we’ll work with you on achieving what you want to do. It’s just making sure it’s safe for everybody else.”
A sign designed and distributed by Christine Robson, a resident who lives along Northeys Bay Road in North Kawartha Township. Robson has been vocal about asking drivers to slow down on the roadway after two serious motorcycle collisions this summer. Peterborough County says signs and roadside memorials are allowed on private property as long as they do not include inappropriate language and do not pose a danger to drivers. (Photo: Christine Robson)
For her part, North Kawartha mayor Carolyn Amyotte has expressed interest in supporting Peterborough County and the OPP in their safety monitoring. She is also calling on residents and visitors driving on Northeys Bay Road to do their part by respecting the posted speed limits.
“Drive with care and be aware,” Amyotte says. “Everybody needs to arrive safely at their destinations. Don’t take unnecessary risks and chances.”
“My heart goes out to all those people involved, because it’s not only the impact on the victims of the accidents — it’s impacting the neighbours and the residents that come out to respond. It’s our first responders that go out there to the same places over and over again. It impacts everybody. Every accident is a life-changing event for all people involved and the more we can prevent them, the better we’ll be.”
KS & Co. Productions and New Stages Theatre present "Phantom & Friends – A Toast to Broadway" at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough on October 22, 2026 featuring (top row) vocalists David Rogers, Kate Suhr, and Linda Kash and (bottom row) musicians Gavin Tessier, Victoria Yeh, and Sam Quinn. (kawarthaNOW collage of supplied photos)
Canada’s leading man of musical theatre is bringing a taste of Broadway to downtown Peterborough, with some familiar local faces joining him on the stage.
David Rogers, who performed as both Raoul and The Phantom in the original Canadian production of The Phantom of the Opera at Toronto’s Pantages Theatre in the 1990s, will headline “Phantom & Friends – A Toast to Broadway” at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre on Thursday, October 22.
A co-production of New Stages Theatre and KS & Co. Productions, owned and led by well-known Peterborough performer Kate Suhr, the one-night-only musical cabaret will feature beloved Broadway songs, backstage stories, and performances in an intimate setting.
Joining Rogers on vocals will be Suhr and fellow Peterborough performer Linda Kash, accompanied by music director and pianist Gavin Tessier and local musicians Victoria Yeh and Sam Quinn.
Advertisement - content continues below
For New Stages artistic director Mark Wallace, the collaboration is a rare opportunity to offer an evening that will appeal to audience members who enjoyed the musical theatre nights presented during the tenure of founder and former artistic producer Randy Read.
“New Stages doesn’t do as many musical theatre nights as we once did with Rand, but some of our audience just loves these nights,” Wallace writes in an email to kawarthaNOW.
Wallace also hints that the announced company might not be the only performers the audiences will see.
“You might even see me get up for a song,” he writes. “It’s going to be a really fun night celebrating the best of Broadway.”
VIDEO: “Music of the Night” by David Rogers (2016)
Rogers has a musical theatre career that spans stages and concert halls across North America.
Along with his roles in The Phantom of the Opera, his leading credits include The Who’s Tommy, Les Misérables, Evita, Into the Woods, Dracula, The Music Man, Cats, Camelot, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Rogers has also performed his solo musical show Broadway Heroes.
Best known for her role as the Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese Angel, Kash began her career at Toronto’s Second City Theatre before building an extensive résumé as a performer and director in theatre, film, and television in Canada and abroad, including roles in Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, Seinfeld, Fargo, and many more. The daughter of actress and opera singer Maureen Forrester and violinist/conductor Eugene Kash, she appeared last fall as Miss Hannigan in Annie at Sudbury Theatre Centre.
Advertisement - content continues below
As for Suhr, the classically trained vocalist, actor, singer-songwriter, and creative producer is familiar to New Stages audiences through productions including A New Brain, Angels in America, and Assassins.
Dividing her time between Peterborough and Toronto, Suhr’s local theatre credits also include The Verandah Society with Megan Murphy and Bloom: A Rock n Roll Fable at 4th Line Theatre, and she has also performed in The Little Mermaid and Mary Poppins at Toronto’s Lower Ossington Theatre, The Secret Garden and Nine with Podium Concert Productions, and productions with Drayton Entertainment and Victoria Playhouse Petrolia.
Through KS & Co. Productions, Suhr creates intimate live experiences that bring artists and audiences together through storytelling, music, and performance.
David Rogers is Canada’s leading man of musical theatre, best known for his performances as Raoul and then The Phantom in the original Canadian production of “The Phantom of the Opera” at Toronto’s Pantages Theatre. He will be joining vocalists Linda Kash and Kate Suhr along with musicians Gavin Tessier, Victoria Yeh, and Sam Quinn for a one-night-only evening of musical theatre at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough on October 22, 2026. (Graphic: New Stages Theatre)
Leading the cabaret’s band, Tessier has performed as Norman Petty in Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story and appeared as a singer and musician in Canadian Legends, The Beatles Tribute, and The Best of Broadway at The Grove Theatre. Most recently featured in Piano Legends at Victoria Playhouse Petrolia, he will next play Jack in Diversified Theatre’s Jack and the Beanstalk: The Panto.
Yeh, a violinist who also headlines her own shows, brings a recording career that includes work featured on independent albums, TVO, Netflix, and Hallmark.
Quinn is another familiar performer for Peterborough audiences, having worked as a music director, band leader, and musician on more than 20 musical theatre shows, as well as with jazz, funk, rock, country, and R&B ensembles in Peterborough and Toronto.
Advertisement - content continues below
“Phantom & Friends – A Toast to Broadway” begins at 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 22 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre at 140 Charlotte Street in downtown Peterborough. The performance is recommended for ages 12 and older.
Tickets are $40 plus venue fees, with a limited number of cabaret table seats available for $50 plus fees.
Peterborough mayoral candidate Brian Lumsden at ArtsVote Peterborough 2026, hosted by the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) on Wednesday, September 23 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Jordan Lyall / kawarthaNOW)
Brian Lumsden, the only Peterborough mayoral candidate to have previously run for the position, is undeterred about his chances despite receiving less than three per cent of the vote in the 2022 municipal election.
“The first campaign was a huge learning experience,” Lumsden told kawarthaNOW in a recent in-depth interview. “I don’t have any political background, but I was very concerned about seeing needles and crack pipes being handed out in parks.”
Lumsden is one of seven candidates in the race to become Peterborough’s next mayor on October 26, with the other six being Michael Eamon, Rob Hailman, Jacob Méthot, Neil Morton, Keith Riel, and Rebecca Schillemat. The day before the nomination period closed, incumbent mayor Jeff Leal announced he would not be seeking re-election for a second term.
Advertisement - content continues below
Opioid crisis remains central to Lumsden’s second mayoral campaign
During his 2022 campaign, Lumsden was a controversial candidate and received public attention for his harsh criticism of the city and council’s response to the opioid crisis.
“It turned out that it really attracted some serious backlash,” Lumsden admitted.
Despite the backlash, he said the opioid crisis will once again be the central issue of his current campaign, adding that all other issues can be addressed once the opioid crisis is resolved.
“I just think our top priority should be the drug epidemic and the millions that are being spent on band-aid solutions,” he explained. “If we had a long term plan in place, we could save up money or redirect funds into more productive means like the arts.”
“My focus isn’t necessarily just on the drug crisis, but I think that’s the most important.”
Peterborough mayoral candidate Brian Lumsden speaks at ArtsVote Peterborough 2026, hosted by the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) on Wednesday, September 23 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. Also pictured are fellow mayoral candidates Jacob Méthot (left) and Rob Hailman. (Photo: Jordan Lyall / kawarthaNOW)
In the 2022 race for mayor, Lumsden came in a distant fourth behind Jeff Leal and then-incumbent councillors Henry Clark and Stephen Wright. However, he believes his campaign had an impact on the actions of the newly elected council.
“I noticed that right after the election, they actually had a policy change and restricted where the needles and pipes could be handed out, so I felt that I did accomplish something,” he said.
Lumsden added that he hopes his campaign will have an even bigger impact in 2026.
“I want to draw as much attention as I can to that epidemic and hopefully actually do something about it. I think I’m going to get a lot more than 700 (votes) this time.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Low property taxes and involuntary residential treatment among proposed responses to housing and homelessness
When asked about his plans to address homelessness and housing affordability, both in relation to the opioid-poisoning crisis and in general across the city, Lumsden said that “we could divert the funds” to programs addressing homelessness “if we could have the drug crisis under control.”
He explained he does not believe that Peterborough can “build its way out” of the housing affordability crisis, and that his priority to address affordability would be to keep property taxes low.
“My goal would be to have growth pay for growth, and keep the taxes low,” Lumsden said.
To address the homelessness crisis, he added that unhoused individuals could be required to enter residential treatment — an idea that Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently said he was open to after Ontario’s Big City Mayors group again asked the province to review existing mental health laws with the idea of expanding involuntary treatment.
“If they’re forced into a bed, they can receive the treatment that they deserve rather than dying on the street,” Lumsden said.
Peterborough mayoral candidate Brian Lumsden speaks at ArtsVote Peterborough 2026, hosted by the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) on Wednesday, September 23 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Jordan Lyall / kawarthaNOW)
Lumsden pointed to the former Nordia building located at 364 Water Street in downtown Peterborough. Currently listed for sale at almost $3.5 million, the 47,000-square-foot five-storey building could be repurposed for multiple residential units, according to the real estate listing.
“I think it would make a perfect medical clinic and either an emergency shelter or some treatment beds, but where drugs are not permitted,” Lumsden said.
Another building he is interested in is the Trinity Community Centre, located at the former Trinity United Church at 360 Reid Street. The Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network — a network of community groups, agencies, and individuals concerned about the impacts of poverty in the community — purchased the church in 2022 for the purpose of developing a community hub.
Now operated by One City Peterborough with funding from the City of Peterborough, Trinity Community Centre is a low-barrier overnight shelter and daytime drop-in centre for people experiencing homelessness.
“My highest priority is reclaiming that church,” Lumsden said.
Advertisement - content continues below
Lumsden says he would consider using strong mayor powers to “reclaim” Trinity Community Centre
On his Facebook page, Lumsden wrote at length about his desire to “reclaim” the building from One City, citing concerns about current usage and operation.
“The Trinity church is an absolute mess; I know we can do better. The condition of that property is not reasonable for the users; it’s not fair for the neighbours and it’s destroying our city. The current condition is an insult to anyone who worshiped there. As mayor, I would want some answers from One City regarding the management of the centre.”
Lumsden also raised the issue of Trinity Community Centre when asked about his position on using strong mayor powers as established by Doug Ford’s government in 2025.
“I wouldn’t abuse them for certain,” he said of strong mayor powers, before adding “I would use them, if I had to, to reclaim Trinity Church.”
“If I received opposition and that was the only thing I could do, I can’t say no.”
On the topic of leadership and governance at city council, Lumsden said he would be open to ideas from all councillors and that he valued teamwork.
“I would be accepting ideas from everybody and using them from all of the people, all of the whole council. We need to work together as a team and we need to work together as a city.”
However, he was quick to reiterate that his “first objective would be to get this drug epidemic under control.”
Advertisement - content continues below
Lumsden pledges to reduce mayor’s salary by 10% and explains his decision to run again
Lumsden also said he would immediately model the mindset and behaviour he expects of councillors and city staff by reducing the mayor’s salary, which is due to increase by 60 per cent to $147,631 at the start of the new term. Councillor salaries will also increase by 52 per cent to $54,991.
“To lead by example and to show that I’m serious about this, I would make my first motion to reduce the mayor’s salary by 10 per cent,” Lumsden said.
Despite the significant backlash he received during his first mayoral run, describing the experience as “horrific,” Lumsden said he felt obligated to run again.
“I actually owed it to those people that did vote for me the last time to stand up and put a voice out there for them,” he said.
Peterborough mayoral candidate Brian Lumsden at ArtsVote Peterborough 2026, hosted by the Electric City Culture Council (EC3) on Wednesday, September 23 at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre in downtown Peterborough. (Photo: Jordan Lyall / kawarthaNOW)
Further, Lumsden believes that his campaign and potential mayoralty provide an alternative for voters to the other six candidates.
“I’m the only one that’s dealing with the drug epidemic and I’m the only one that can actually do something about it. There are a lot of others that are making a lot of promises that seem like they’re going to be impossible to keep.”
Lumsden again pointed to the Trinity Community Centre as another reason he chose to run again, despite his negative experience in 2022.
“If I was elected, I think reclaiming Trinity Church and using it for a different purpose, a more productive purpose, would be a huge victory. I know a lot of other candidates would not do that because it is a dangerous topic to raise.”
Bill Swift, owner and manager of Swift Canoe & Kayak, carries a canoe that sold for $5,000 during the live auction at the 2025 Lakeside Gala at The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough. The company will once again be donating a canoe for the 2026 Lakeside Gala on Saturday, October 3, one of many donated items that will be available for bidding during the live and silent auctions to raise funds supporting the Museum's core programming. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
From the craftsmanship of a canoe or a paddle to paintings of the rugged Canadian landscape to the stories told about travels on the water, there is always art to be found in adventure.
Art in adventure is a common thread among the many items that have been donated by local makers, artisans, builders, and businesses in support of The Canadian Canoe Museum’s flagship fundraising event, the Lakeside Gala.
With the tagline “Celebrating Excellence in the Making,” the Gala takes place on Saturday, October 3 from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. From performances by acclaimed musicians to food stations from local culinary creators, the event promises to be an unforgettable evening that celebrates creating with care.
Proceeds from the auctions at The Canadian Canoe Museum’s Lakeside Gala on October 3, 2026 will support the Museum’s core programming, including workshops, school trips, camps, on-water experiences, and the Builders in Residence program. The proceeds will also be used to help maintain the Museum’s collection of more than 650 nationally significant watercraft. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Beyond the celebrations, the Lakeside Gala also features both a live and silent auction. Guests can browse the items up for bidding in the Collection Hall, alongside some of the Museum’s nationally significant collection of more than 650 watercraft. They can then place their bids online through the MobilBID bidding platform, using their smartphones to register and bid or re-bid throughout the evening.
“These live and silent auction items are all handmade items by makers that we respect and value and want to showcase,” says Carolyn Hyslop, Executive Director of The Canadian Canoe Museum.
“We have beautiful, artistic, and handmade items that are one-of-a-kind creations, all in one place, along with exceptional experiences. It’s a great opportunity to find something really unique while supporting the Museum’s core programming.”
Become the proud owner of a red Swift Canoe branded with The Canadian Canoe Museum logo
To support core programming at The Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough, Swift Canoe & Kayak has donated a Prospector 16-foot canoe for the live auction at the annual Lakeside Gala fundraiser on October 3, 2026. One of the brand’s most popular canoes for both recreational paddles and multi-day canoe trips, the one-of-a-kind canoe will be embedded with The Canadian Canoe Museum logo on the bottom and side of the hull. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
The Gala presents an opportunity to get your hands on the canoe that is the figurehead of Ontario paddling. The Swift family has been equipping Ontario and international paddlers for more than 50 years, while renting and selling equipment through the affiliated business Algonquin Outfitters.
During the Lakeside Gala, The Canadian Canoe Museum will be auctioning a red Prospector 16-foot canoe, one of the most popular and well-loved watercraft from Swift. The Kevlar fusion watercraft, made with carbon Kevlar trim, is lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for recreational paddling as well as multi-day canoe tripping with smooth portaging capability.
Making the canoe truly one of a kind is the iconic pictograph logo embedded right into the finish on the side and bottom of the hull.
Swift Canoe & Kayak owner and manager Bill Swift will be at the Gala himself to present the canoe. He says supporting the Museum is particularly meaningful as Bill Swift Sr., his father, who founded the company, was good friends with Professor Kirk Wipper, whose collection of watercraft was the basis for what would become The Canadian Canoe Museum.
VIDEO: Bill Swift of Swift Canoe & Kayak
“As someone who’s so invested in the canoe industry myself, I’m so proud to see what the Museum has done in the way they represent the canoe,” says Swift. “The Museum is extraordinary. It’s an absolutely wonderful place and we’re very proud to be involved with them.”
He explains that his company has sent clients from around the world to the Museum, and they have all been “absolutely blown away” by the experience.
“We’re so happy to contribute in our way to making that happen, and I strongly encourage others to follow suit,” Swift says.
“Come to the Gala, find a way to donate to the Museum, and let your friends know about it. The Gala is fabulous with delicious food and the auction items are amazing. It’s a great experience.”
See the craftsmanship of Nuu-chah-nulth traditional carving with a paddle made by Joe Martin
Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation canoe carver Joe Martin has donated a Nuu-chah-nulth paddle to the Lakeside Gala auction on October 3, 2026 at The Canadian Canoe Museum. Proceeds from the live and silent auctions at the Gala will be used to support the Museum’s core programming, including the Builders-in-Residence programming, of which Martin and his daughter Gisele will be a part during October. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Joe Martin is a Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation canoe carver recognized for his long-standing commitment to traditional Nuu-chah-nulth carving, mentorship and forest protection. He has crafted more than 70 traditional dugout canoes throughout his career.
During the Gala, attendees can meet Martin, alongside his daughter Gisele, as the pair will be Builders in Residence at the Museum from October 3 to 8 and 15 to 20. The residency offers visitors an opportunity to watch their techniques and listen to their stories as they continue the art and tradition of canoe making.
Hyslop says the evening’s proceeds will support the Builders in Residence program alongside other educational programming.
“To be surrounded by a number of exceptional makers is really important to us,” Hyslop says. “The idea of creating and making the canoe and kayak and celebrating the makers who have carried on these traditions is in our DNA.”
Bid on a five-day canoeing adventure from Black Feather
One of the silent auction items during the Lakeside Gala auction at The Canadian Canoe Museum on October 3, 2026 is a five-day guided getaway from Black Feather of The Noire, a Quebec whitewater river flowing from below La Vérendrye Wildlife Reserve, south to the Ottawa River near Pembroke. (Photo courtesy of Black Feather)
The Lakeside Gala also offers guests the chance to bid on an experience that will get you out on the water in a big way.
One of the silent auction items is a five-day guided getaway from Black Feather, a premier wilderness adventure company offering sustainable trips by foot, canoe, sea kayak, ski, and raft since 1972. You can bid on this guided trip exploring The Noire, a Quebec whitewater river flowing from below La Vérendrye Wildlife Reserve, south to the Ottawa River near Pembroke.
The river is the longest distance of runnable whitewater, with the shortest distance that requires portaging. You will experience Class I, Class II, and optional Class III rapids, presenting opportunities to learn new skills with the help of knowledgeable guides.
Given this route is not as well-known as other local rivers, it gives you the best chance of seeing wildlife and it’s unlikely you will encounter other paddlers during your adventure.
The trip is ideal for people with intermediate whitewater paddling skills and will include the cost of ABS canoes, all camping and safety equipment, local transportation, and meals throughout the trip.
Take home original artwork by Artist in Residence Holly Ann Friesen
In May 2026, The Canadian Canoe Museum welcomed its first-ever Artist in Residence, Holly Ann Friesen, a visual artist based in Kenora and Merrickville whose work involves capturing the essence of the Canadian landscape. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
In May, the Museum welcomed its first-ever Artist in Residence, Holly Ann Friesen, a visual artist based in Kenora and Merrickville whose work involves capturing the essence of the Canadian landscape. She says the residency was a “wonderful experience” and one of the highlights of her year.
“I worked on a lot of landscapes and I talked to a lot of students and other community members, and that was just as fulfilling as actually working on the landscapes,” she explains.
“The residency allowed me to have dedicated time to work on my craft and practice. When students and community members visited, it gave me time to reflect on what my practice means and how it evolves. It allowed me that time to break down my process and communicate that to other people.”
“Silent Reflection” by Holly Ann Friesen is one of many pieces of artwork that will be available for bid during the Lakeside Gala at The Canadian Canoe Museum on October 3, 2026. The landscape painting was the first she had completed during the Artist in Residence program at the Museum in spring 2026. (Photo courtesy of Holly Ann Friesen)
Friesen has donated “Silent Reflection” — the very first piece she finished during her residency — to The Canadian Canoe Museum for the Lakeside Gala.
“The light resonated with me in the space and it translated onto the canvas, so that was a highlight for me. I’m glad to have given it to such a worthy audience,” she says.
“It was a huge honour to be chosen for the residency, and the least I could do is support the Museum’s ongoing work by donating a piece.”
Bid on inspired works depicting Canadian landscapes by Nick Leniuk, Arnold Zageris, Christopher Griffin, and many other artists
Peterborough artist Nick Leniuk has donated a sculpture titled “Sunday Morning” to the Lakeside Gala auction on October 3, 2026 at The Canadian Canoe Museum. Celebrating the Canadian landscape, the piece is crafted from black Wonderstone and mounted on a natural rose quartz base to interpret a windswept evergreen. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Friesen is only one of several artists across Ontario who have donated original work to the Museum’s Lakeside Gala this year.
Peterborough artist Nick Leniuk has donated a sculpture titled “Sunday Morning” that offers an interpretation of a windswept evergreen, crafted from black Wonderstone and mounted on a natural rose quartz base.
As an avid paddler, hiker, and traveller, he draws inspiration from Canada’s lakes and forests.
Peterborough artist Arnold Zageris gives The Canadian Canoe Museum’s Executive Director Carolyn Hyslop one of his large-format photographs to be auctioned off during the Museum’s annual Lakeside Gala fundraiser on October 3, 2026. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Fellow Peterborough artist Arnold Zageris also made a generous donation of work that celebrates the Canadian landscape. Specializing in large-format photography, his work captures remote lands like Labrador, Iceland, and the Antarctic.
Christopher Griffin’s oil painting “Early Start on the Spanish” will also be up for bid during the Gala. The piece was inspired by the rock cliffs rising and disappearing into the Spanish River during a canoe trip he took in 2019.
Other Canadian artists who have donated work for the Gala include Kristyn Watterworth, Denise Bustraen, Andrew Milne, Garrett Gilbart, Nan Sidler, Heather Bunting, Susan Oomen, and more.
Read about a 3,400-kilometre journey to the Arctic with signed bestselling books by Adam Shoalts
During the Lakeside Gala at The Canadian Canoe Museum on October 3, 2026, guests will have the opportunity to bid on three books written by Canadian explorer and bestselling author Adam Shoalts that each take readers on some of the award-winning adventurer’s most gruelling and exciting adventures across Canada. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
Get inspired for your next adventure by bidding on a package of three bestselling books by Adam Shoalts, a Canadian explorer, geographer, historian, and public speaker.
Named one of the “greatest living explorers” by CBC and “Canada’s Indiana Jones” by the Toronto Star, Shoalts is an adventurer and Westaway Explorer-in-Residence at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society. He is also a champion of the Trans-Canada Trail, and an award winner for his work preserving local watersheds in the Niagara Region.
Shoalts’ three books — The Whisper on the Night Wind: The True History of a Wilderness Legend, Where the Falcon Flies: A 3,400km Odyssey from My Doorstep to the Arctic, and Vanished Beyond the Map: The Mystery of Lost Explorer Hubert — take you on some of his most thrilling adventures.
You can read about his 3,400-kilometre solo canoe journey from Lake Erie to the Arctic, follow along on his trip to the Labrador mountains to investigate an old legend dating back to the early 1900s, and read about his aim to solve one of history’s enduring cold cases of a vanished explorer.
Funds raised directly support the Museum’s exhibitions, programs, and signature initiatives
Among the donated items available to bid on during the silent and live auctions at The Canadian Canoe Museum’s Lakeside Gala on October 3, 2026 will be many outdoor excursions and experiences, including one from MKC Whitewater Rafting. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
That’s only the beginning of the impressive list of items that will be offered during the live and silent auctions at the Lakeside Gala.
Other items available for bidding include signed books by actor and author Nick Offerman (known for the popular television comedy series Parks and Recreation), who has contributed an audio clip for an exhibit at the Museum. He made headlines earlier this year when he spoke of his connection to Peterborough and the Museum, having learned to build wooden canoes from the team at Bear Mountain Boats.
Other adventures up for grabs include MKC Whitewater rafting trips, an excursion for four from Deep Roots Adventure, a whitewater paddle certificate from Echo Paddles founder Andy Convery, a 10-day guided canoe trip in the Northwest Territories with Jackpine Paddle, a gift card for dinner for two at Bartlett Lodge in Algonquin Provincial Park, and many more.
Signed books by actor and author Nick Offerman, known for the popular television comedy series “Parks and Recreation,” will be up for bid during the Lakeside Gala at The Canadian Canoe Museum on October 3, 2026. Offerman, who has contributed an audio clip for an exhibit at the Museum, learned to build wooden canoes from the team at Bear Mountain Boats. (Photo courtesy of The Canadian Canoe Museum)
“Funds raised through the Gala and auctions are put towards our programming that allows people to connect directly with the Museum’s collection, including our school programming and our summer camp programming for kids,” Hyslop says.
“The funds will also support care of the collection, including all the work that goes into sharing the stories about the collection to local and international audiences so that more people can engage with the Museum.”
Tickets for the Lakeside Gala are $250 per person and include a charitable tax receipt. To purchase tickets, visit canoemuseum.ca/lakeside-gala.
Those who are unable to attend this year’s Gala and would like to support the Museum can donate anytime at canoemuseum.ca/support.
This branded editorial was created in partnership with The Canadian Canoe Museum. If your organization or business is interested in a branded editorial, contact us.
This edition of kawarthaNOW's "Kawartha Localist" editorial series features 15 destinations for scenic trails in the greater Kawarthas region, including the Northumberland County Forest, Balsam Lake Provincial Park, Eagle's Nest Park, Peter's Woods Provincial Park, Doube's Trestle Bridge, Jackson Creek Trail, Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Stony Lake Trails, McGeachie Conservation Area, Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park, James Cooper Lookout Trail, Ken Reid Conservation Area, Robert Johnston EcoForest Trails, Dahl Forest, and Trent University's Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Area. (kawarthaNOW collage)
Kawartha Localist is an editorial series from kawarthaNOW sharing trusted local recommendations, hidden gems, and favourite discoveries from people who know and love this region. It’s what we love about where we live. Kawartha Localist is sponsored by Kawartha Financial Services.
We may have only officially entered the fall season last week, but the foliage is already quickly transforming into stunning gold, red, and orange tones.
While the trees are only starting to change colour in southern areas of the greater Kawarthas region, in the north the leaves are already approaching their peak and are even beginning to drop.
In some provincial parks in the region, the upcoming weekend might be the best time to see the fall colours before they begin to fade. It happens fast, so stay tuned to the fall colour tracker from Ontario Parks to see the progression of the colour change and plan your fall exploration.
Last week, Kawartha Localist offered a list of scenic spots to find unbeatable views of the colours. If you prefer to work a little more for your view, or just want to get some exercise while immersing yourself in the seasonal display, we’ve put together a list of top hikes and trails across the region perfect for taking in the colours in all their glory.
From walks along the Trans Canada Trail to hikes in old-growth forests, here are some not-to-be missed trails perfect for seeing the colours at their peak this fall.
A message from our sponsor - content continues below
Hike to Lookout Mountain in the Northumberland County Forest
The Northumberland County Forest is home to 45 kilometres of hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and rare ecosystems. A favourite trail for viewing the fall colours is a steep 2.3-kilometre trail to Lookout Mountain which weaves through mixed forests and old pine plantations. (Photo: Northumberland County)
The Northumberland County Forest is home to 45 kilometres of hiking trails that wind through forests, creeks, rolling terrains, and tallgrass prairies.
For stunning views, start at the trailhead for The Woodland Trails, located on the east side of the County Road 45, across from Woodland Road. Take the moderately steep 2.3-kilometre trail to the top of Lookout Mountain and enjoy the sights and sounds of the varied landscapes along the way, including mixed forests and old pine plantations.
If you can’t get enough of the colours, tack on another adventure by taking the nine-kilometre Sweet Fern Loop or 7.5-kilometre Black Oak Loop to walk through the Black Oak Woodland, a rare habitat in Canada that Northumberland County is restoring and managing.
At this trailhead, you’ll also find the Porcupine Trail, which is classified as a “universal trail” with wide and sturdy pathways with gradual sloping grades. Minimizing barriers to access, there are benches along the trail.
Cross through eskers and kames at Balsam Lake Provincial Park near Kirkfield
Take a scenic drive through Kawartha Lakes to get to Balsam Lake Provincial Park to enjoy a 2.1-kilometre walk through eskers and kames formed over 10,000 years ago. The lookout trail goes through mature hardwood and young mixed forests before reaching a lookout over Balsam Lake. (Photo: Balsam Lake Provincial Park / Facebook)
Between Kirkfield and Coboconk, Balsam Lake Provincial Park is not just about the destination, but the stunning drive through the City of Kawartha Lakes that will get you there.
Located at 2238 County Road 48, the park has ample opportunities to enjoy the fall colours with over eight kilometres of hiking trails featuring waterfront views, ponds, and wetlands.
On the 2.1-kilometre Lookout Trail, you will walk through eskers and kames formed over 10,000 years ago by moving glaciers, as well as a variety of forest types including mature hardwood and young mixed forests.
The trail will take you to a lookout atop the tallest kame hill for views of Balsam Lake. Where the trail splits at the look out, continue through the 1.7 kilometre Lorie’s Link trail for more exploration of the changing foliage by enjoying meadows of wildflowers and a red pine plantation.
Lookouts, bogs, and forests at Eagle’s Nest Park in Bancroft
On top of having one of the most visited lookouts within Hastings County, Eagle’s Nest Park in Bancroft has six trails each ranging in difficulty and passing through various ecosystems, including forests, a northern peat bog, and lookout points. (Photo: Eagle’s Nest Park / Facebook)
Named for a pair of eagles that originally nested on the site, Eagle’s Nest Park is home to one of the busiest lookout spots in Hastings County. You’ll rarely find it void of explorers throughout the summer, and in the fall it’s particularly beloved.
The lookout provides panoramic views of the York River and the town of Bancroft. It can be viewed from the Hawkwatch Accessible Trail, just 250 metres away from the parking lot.
But did you know there are many other trails at Eagle’s Nest that deliver unmatched views? There are six in total with varying levels of difficulty, exploring forests, a northern peat bog, and several other lookout points.
With so many varying landscapes and terrains, you can spend the whole day exploring the fall colours and then hit the town of Bancroft for some shopping and food while looking at those same majestic cliffs from ground level.
Eagle’s Nest Park is open from the May long weekend to Thanksgiving each year. To learn more, visit eaglesnestpark.com.
View some of Ontario’s last remaining old-growth forests at Peter’s Woods Provincial Park in Northumberland County
Explore one of Ontario’s oldest forests at Peter’s Woods Provincial Park in Northumberland County. Located between Cobourg and Roseneath in the Oak Ridges Moraine, the nature reserve is home to oak and maple trees that are at least 400 years old. A short one-kilometre trail is rich with fallen and dead trees, and an understory alive with ferns, fungi, and plant life. (Photo: Kawarthas Northumberland / Facebook)
At Peter’s Woods Provincial Park in Northumberland County, you can not only view the stunning fall colours, but you can explore some of Ontario’s oldest areas of forest.
The nature reserve between Roseneath and Grafton is by far the least disturbed forest remnant in Ontario’s Greenbelt, with oak and maple trees at least 400 years old.
That means at this hotspot along the Oak Ridges Moraine, amongst the red oak, white pine, and white cedar, you’ll see a lot of fallen and dead trees, as well as a rich understory of ferns, funghi, and plant life.
This remarkable trail is short at just around a kilometre — but it’s a kilometre full of magic. As the park is a nature reserve, visitors are asked to tread lightly by staying on the trail.
Cross Doube’s Trestle Bridge between Peterborough and Omemee for stunning panoramic views of Buttermilk Valley
Also known as Orange Corners Trestle Bridge, Doube’s Trestle Bridge between Peterborough and Omemee is well-used for various recreational activities because of its stunning views over the Buttermilk Valley. The historic 175-metre bridge is a section of the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail. (Photo: Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association / Facebook)
Many people make the Doube’s Trestle Bridge (also known as Orange Corners Trestle Bridge), located between Peterborough and Omemee, a regular part of their exercise, whether they travel by hiking, cycling, or running. But this historic bridge is even more exceptional in the fall when the changing foliage creates a vibrant and colourful lookout.
Overlooking the Buttermilk Valley, this 175-metre bridge was constructed in 1883 for the Midland Railway’s route between Peterborough and Lindsay. Today, it remains a piece of the 53.8-kilometre Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, which is a portion of the Trans Canada Trail (The Great Trail).
There are a number of places to access the trail, but, for easy access to the bridge, start at 303 Orange Corners Road. From there, you’ll have a 1.2-kimotre one-way hike to the trestle bridge.
With the popularity of the trail and the bridge during fall, the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail Association is reminding visitors that the area is surrounded by private properties whose privacy should be respected, and to not trespass by walking off the main trial.
Also note that a portion of the bridge’s wooden decking was again recently damaged by fire, with the cause this time suspected to be a discarded smouldering cigarette butt. Unlike after the 2024 fire, the bridge remains open with a temporary plywood repair, but be careful when crossing as the lip of the repair could be a tripping hazard.
To learn more about the trail, the bridge and its history, or to donate to help repair the bridge, visit ktct.ca.
Walk the Trans Canada Trail via the Jackson Creek Trail in Peterborough
Jackson Creek Trail is a popular trail located in the City of Peterborough. Those looking to view the fall colours can head west from Jackson Park to follow the scenic trail of forest, valleys, and wetlands abundant with wildlife and plant life. The trail links to the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail in the west and the Peterborough Trans Canada Trail in the southeast. (Photo: Otonabee Conservation)
Another way to experience a portion of the Trans Canada Trail in its fall glory is to take a walk along the Jackson Creek Trail, one of the most enjoyed trails by Peterborough urbanites seeking to immerse themselves in nature.
Begin your journey heading west from Jackson Park, whose location on the creek invites a diverse ecosystem of plant and animal life. Along this 4.5-kilometre multi-use scenic trail, which links to the Kawartha Trans Canada Trail in the west and the Peterborough Trans Canada Trail in the southeast, you’ll pass through upland forest, forested lowlands, valleys, and wetlands that are abundant with life-and, of course, stunning foliage.
Catch the sunset on the Mississauga River Loop at Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park in North Kawartha
Kawartha Highlands is the largest provincial park in southern Ontario outside of Algonquin Provincial Park. One of the most popular trails is the 1.5 Mississauga River Loop, which offers unbeatable sunset views. (Photo: Ontario Parks / Facebook)
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park is the largest provincial park in southern Ontario outside of Algonquin Park. Located primarily in North Kawartha Township, it’s also a lot more accessible and likely not as crowded as Algonquin’s Highway 60 corridor.
One of the most popular trails in this park is the Mississauga River Loop. This 1.5-kilometre trail follows the Mississauga River as it flows between Mississauga Lake and Lower Buckhorn Lake. Hiking through forest and rocky ridges will lead you to a vantage point that offers prime views during sunset.
For the more adventurous, the park also offers opportunities to experience the outdoors through backcountry canoeing and camping.
Explore ecologically significant geology on the Stony Lake Trails in North Kawartha
Managed by the Kawartha Land Trust, the Stony Lake Trails are a 10-kilometre network of trails in North Kawartha that follow along Stony Lake. One of the most popular trails is the Red Trail, a 1.5-kilometre trail that has many side trails and views of the lake. (Photo: Kawartha Land Trust)
Located in North Kawartha Township, the Stony Lake Trail network offers 10 kilometres of hiking trails boasting views of Stony Lake, one of Peterborough County’s most popular lakes.
Suitable for moderate and intermediate hiking, these trails span properties managed by the Kawartha Land Trust, including the Ingleton-Wells Property, Jeffrey-Cowan Forest Preserve, and property owned by Viamede Resort.
These properties sit on ecologically significant limestone cliffs and rock outcropping of the Canadian Shield, offering hilltop lookouts and one of the largest undeveloped stretches of shoreline on Stony Lake.
The 3.5-kilometre Red Trail through the Jeffrey-Cowan Forest Preserve is one of the most enjoyed throughout the fall, offering many different routes and views of the lake.
View golden tamarack in the McGeachie Conservation Area in Hastings County
On Steenburg Lake just west of Gilmour, McGreachie Conservation Area has over 500 acres of land with trees at minimum 100 years old, as well as a swamp, two creeks, and beaver ponds. The area is abundant with oak, maple, basswood, birch, beech, and ash trees, as well as golden tamaracks that brighten the pathway. (Photo: Karin Dietrich)
On Steenburg Lake just west of Gilmour in Hastings County, McGeachie Conservation Area has over 500 acres of land that were donated to Crowe Valley Conservation in 1994.
Here, you’ll find forests with trees at minimum 100 years old, as well as swamp lands, beaver ponds, and two creeks. In the uplands, you will be surrounded by oak, maple, basswood, birch, beech, and ash trees, while in the lowlands, stands of cedar, hemlock, and balsam will be abundant, as well as golden tamarack brightening the path.
Several maintained trails vary from a few hundred metres to 1.2 kilometres, with many interconnected so you can create your own route amongst the changing colours.
See some of the oldest trees in Ontario at Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park in Otonabee-South Monaghan
Located in Douro-Dummer just outside of Peterborough, Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park is a hidden gem in the middle of the Peterborough Drumlin Fields, which contains more than 3,000 drumlins. A 1.5-kilometre trail is home to a diverse range of plant and wildlife. (Photo: Shane Gunter)
Located in the Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan just outside the City of Peterborough, Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park has some of the oldest trees in Ontario — so you know they’ll be worth paying a visit this fall.
Harbouring grandeur maple, beech, elm, and hemlock trees (some between 200 and 460 years old), this park is located in the middle of the Peterborough Drumlin Fields, which contains more than 3,000 drumlins, which are large hills shaped by retreating glaciers).
Given the elevation change, the 1.5-easy trail through the park contains multiple ecosystems home to a range of wildlife and plant life.
View four interconnected lakes at the James Cooper Lookout Trail in Haliburton Highlands
Accessible to families and young hikers, the James Cooper Lookout Trail in Stanhope in Haliburton County is one of the local favourites for viewing fall colours. With views of four interconnected lakes, the loop is 1.5 kilometres and connects to the Algonquin Highlands Ridge Trail a network of trails in the township. (Photo: Haliburton County Tourism)
Don’t be discouraged by the steep incline — the 1.5-kilometre James Cooper Lookout Trail in Haliburton County is worth the leg work-out for the rocky bluff destination offering generous south-facing views of four interconnected lakes: Maple, Beech, Boshkung, and Twelve Mile.
Up for more adventure? The loop connects to the eight-kilometre Algonquin Highlands Ridge Trail, which in itself connects to a whole network of trails across the Highlands.
Listen to the trees talk at Ken Reid Conservation Area near Lindsay
Ken Reid Conservation Area offers year-round access to 12 interconnected trails totalling close to 12 kilometres. During the fall, the must-do is the Woodland Loop which passes a floating boardwalk and the significant McLaren Marsh. (Photo: Kawartha Conservation)
Just north of Lindsay in the City of Kawartha Lakes, Ken Reid Conservation Area is a nature-lover’s haven with diverse ecosystems from dense forests to sprawling meadows and significant wetlands.
At 272 acres, this year-round conservation area offers 12 interconnected trails that total close to 12 kilometres. A must-see in the fall is the 2.4-kilometre Woodland Loop (Green Trail) where you’ll begin by walking along the floating boardwalk before getting unbeatable views of the McLaren Marsh.
Did you know on this trail you can listen to the trees speak? That’s right, you can use the Talking Forest App available on iPhone and Android, click on the trail, and you’ll hear about the trees, wildlife, and history of the landscape while you appreciate the changing colours of the canopy.
Take a leisurely hike at Robert Johnston EcoForest Trails in Douro-Dummer
Robert Johnston EcoForest Trails in Douro-Dummer is a network of trails totally six kilometres through ponds, wetlands, large beech trees, hardwood forests, a drumlin, and lots of dog strangling vine. Ideal for viewing the changing fall colours, the Wildlife Trail offers expansive and open views of the rolling lands. (Photo: 2oldguyswalking.wordpress.com)
In the Township of Douro-Dummer, the Robert Johnston EcoForest Trails is an unassuming network of four trails totalling about six kilometres of forest immersion.
The trails are named after Robert Charles Johnston, a long-time Douro-Dummer resident who donated the property to the township in 1997 to be used as recreational land.
Meandering through ponds, wetlands, large beech trees, hardwood forests, a drumlin, and lots of dog strangling vine, these trails offer the setting for easy and leisurely hikes without the crowds of people.
This fall, you won’t want to miss out on taking the Wildlife Trail where you’ll get expansive and open views of the rolling lands.
The Robert Johnston EcoForest Trails are located at 185 Douro 5th Line in Douro-Dummer Township. The trails are free to use, with ample parking available at the entrance to the trails.
Explore 500 acres of mixed forest and the Burnt River at Dahl Forest in Haliburton County
The Dahl Forest in Haliburton County contains almost 500 acres, and features mixed forests and Burnt River. The property contains seven hiking trails totalling five kilometres of forest, wetlands, and open areas. (Photo: Haliburton County Tourism)
At approximately 500 acres, Dahl Forest is an expansive property of mixed forest managed by the Haliburton Land Trust in Minden Hills, located five kilometres south of Gelert.
Within these forests, you’ll find white birch, sugar maple, basswood trees among red and white pine forest. The property contains seven hiking trails totalling five kilometres of forest, wetlands, and open areas bisected by the Burnt River.
A favourite hike for the fall is the Old Bend Loop, a trail just over a kilometre through the forest and alongside the river and wetlands.
Look out for wildlife at Trent University’s Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Area in Peterborough
The Trent University Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Area offers an unbeatable display when the fall colours are peaking. The three trails on the property explore various ecosystems include wetlands, regenerating agricultural fields, areas of cedar, and young deciduous forests that provide habitat to a range of wildlife. (Photo: Shirlanne Pawley-Boyd / Instagram)
More and more people are discovering the beauty that can be found at Trent University’s Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Reserve in Peterborough.
The university’s largest and oldest natural area, the Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Reserve was established as a “living laboratory” for environmental research and conservation and continues to serve as a living classroom with a robust trail network across various ecosystems.
These include three wetlands, regenerating agricultural fields, areas of cedar, and young deciduous forests that provide habitat to a range of wildlife.
The longest of the three trails, the 3.2-kilometre Blue Trail, is unmatched in the fall and is also enjoyed year-round for birding, snowshoeing, and as an escape right in the city.
Kawartha Localist is an editorial series from kawarthaNOW celebrating the places, experiences, businesses, and communities that make our region extraordinary. Written by people who live here, work here, and have spent nearly 30 years exploring the Kawarthas and surrounding region, each edition shares trusted local recommendations, hidden gems, and favourite discoveries from across Peterborough County, the City of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland County, Haliburton County, and Hastings Highlands.
Whether you’re looking for your next hiking trail, favourite patio, scenic drive, farmers’ market, or weekend adventure, Kawartha Localist is what we love about where we live.
A rendering of the shoreline bank near The Gore, between Romaine Street and Lock Street, as part of the concept plan for the City of Peterborough's Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project, which was approved by city council on September 28, 2026. The following day, more than $6.5 million in federal, municipal, and community funding was announced for a new 1.15-kilometre section along Crescent and Haggart streets. (Rendering: City of Peterborough)
A long-planned extension of Peterborough’s Little Lake Loop is moving forward with more than $6.5 million in federal, municipal, and community funding for a new 1.15-kilometre section along Crescent and Haggart streets.
Peterborough MP Emma Harrison joined Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal on Tuesday morning (September 29) in front of the Art Gallery of Peterborough to announce the funding.
According to a media release, the funding includes $3,914,203 through the Active Transportation Fund, $2,534,469 from the City of Peterborough, and $75,000 from the Survivors Abreast Peterborough Dragon Boat Team, which hosts the annual Peterborough’s Dragon Boat Festival on Little Lake.
The $75,000 donation from Survivors Abreast to the Little Lake project was made in back in 2011, from proceeds raised when hosting the inaugural International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission Festival in 2010. Survivors Abreast also donated $75,000 for the Peterborough Regional Health Centre Foundation’s radiation bunker campaign.
Advertisement - content continues below
The funding announcement came one day after Peterborough city council gave final approval to the concept plan for the Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project and authorized city staff to complete detailed design and prepare tender-ready contract documents.
The city currently estimates the project will cost $7 million, although that is a preliminary figure that will be refined through detailed design. City staff had applied for federal Active Transportation Fund support that could cover up to 60 per cent of eligible active transportation construction costs.
The project will extend the existing 2.34-kilometre Little Lake Loop by another 1.15 kilometres. The new section will include 250 metres of lakeside pedestrian paths, 600 metres of two-way cycle tracks, 860 metres of sidewalk, and 350 metres of multi-use paths.
The City of Peterborough’s Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project will see a new 1.15-kilometre section along Crescent and Haggart streets that will include cycle tracks, sidewalks, waterfront paths, landscaping, and public gathering areas. (Map: City of Peterborough)
Plans also include a “woonerf” — a street designed as a shared space for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles — along with landscaping and plantings, shade structures, and seating areas.
“The Little Lake Loop is part of a long-term vision that will help make Peterborough a more connected, active, and beautiful place to live,” MP Harrison said in a media release.
“I am grateful for the federal government’s support for multi-use trails across the country, which strengthens communities and improves people’s lives. I’m pleased to see funding support this important project for Peterborough — a project residents have long advocated for and care deeply about.”
Advertisement - content continues below
The Little Lake Loop has been contemplated for years as part of the city’s plans for its waterfront.
The 2010 Little Lake Master Plan, which was intended to guide city activities and investment around Little Lake over 20 years, identified completing a continuous waterside trail for pedestrians and cyclists as one of its guiding principles. The plan noted there were already only a few breaks in the trail system around Little Lake and the Otonabee River.
The current project is focused on the Crescent Street corridor between Haggart Street and the entrance to Del Crary Park.
A rendering of the proposed corridor north of Romaine Street as part of the City of Peterborough’s Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project. (Rendering: City of Peterborough)
When the city began public consultation on the Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project in May 2025, it described the project as the first phase of the broader Little Lake Loop and a key objective of both the Central Area Master Plan and Little Lake Master Plan.
At that time, the city identified possible improvements including active transportation infrastructure, shoreline erosion protection and naturalization, improvements to aquatic habitat and native planting, better recreational access to Little Lake, traffic calming, and enhanced public gathering spaces.
On Monday night, city council met for the last time before the October 26 municipal election and approved the concept plan for the Otonabee River Trail and Shoreline Improvement Project, authorizing the city to complete detailed design and prepare tender-ready contract documents for the project.
Advertisement - content continues below
The concept plan approved by council will see Crescent Street between Lake and Haggart streets reconstructed with a south-and-eastbound one-way vehicle lane, a two-way cycle track, new sidewalks, dedicated parking areas, a gathering space at the T-Warf, and improvements to public space and shoreline features.
“Completing another segment of the Little Lake Loop is an important step toward creating a more connected and accessible trail network in Peterborough,” Mayor Leal said during Tuesday’s announcement.
“This investment will provide more opportunities for residents and visitors to walk, cycle and enjoy the natural beauty of Little Lake, while connecting people to our parks, businesses and tourism destinations. We’re pleased to see this vision continue to take shape and to invest in infrastructure that will serve our community for years to come.”
Advertisement - content continues below
The federal funding is being provided through the Active Transportation Fund, which supports new and expanded pathways, sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, and other infrastructure intended to encourage walking, cycling, and other forms of active transportation.
The September 29 announcement follows an earlier Active Transportation Fund investment announced in 2023 for improvements to Peterborough’s Rotary Greenway Trail.
Federal funding for the Little Lake Loop project is conditional on the signing of a contribution agreement.
This story has been updated to clarify that the $75,000 donation to the Little Lake project from the Survivors Abreast Peterborough Dragon Boat Team was made in 2011, rather than being a recent contribution as implied in the original media release.
Euphoria Wellness Spa owner Simone Dobson (left) with Tiffany Arcari marking 20 years of beauty, welness, and community at the U4 Rooftop Patio Bar at Euphoria's downtown Peterborough location. To celebrate the milestone, Euphoria is hosting the Euphoria Forever Beauty Event on Wednesday, October 7 featuring complimentary services, exclusive discounts, special gifts, and more. (Photo courtesy of Euphoria Wellness Spa)
Euphoria Wellness Spa is marking 20 years in Peterborough, and owner Simone Dobson is putting the people behind the business at the centre of the celebration.
From its beginnings on Hunter Street to its home at 290 Water Street, Euphoria has grown to bring together day spa treatments, medical esthetics, wellness services, a café, and a rooftop event space. For Simone, that growth has been made possible by the commitment of her team and the continued support of clients.
“We’re here after 20 years because of the staff and the clients,” she says.
She is particularly proud of Euphoria’s long-serving team, with many staff members having been part of the business for 10 to 15 years. Their contributions are central to how she reflects on the anniversary and what the business has become.
Euphoria’s early days looked quite different, with eight staff members working in a 4,000-square-foot space on Hunter Street. Its subsequent expansion and move to Water Street marked a new chapter, bringing a broader range of beauty and wellness services together in downtown Peterborough.
As the business has evolved, ongoing training has remained a priority. Simone describes professional development as an important way to support the team and keep pace with changes in treatments and technology. Euphoria has also continued to develop its medical esthetic services through the addition of specialized practitioners.
Beyond the treatment rooms, the Water Street location has become a place to gather. Canoe Co. Café welcomes visitors for coffee and gelato, while the U4 Rooftop Patio Bar provides a setting for private events and celebrations.
During the Euphoria Forever Beauty Event being held on October 7, 2026, Euphoria Wellness Spa in downtown Peterborough will celebrate its 20th year in business by offering complimentary services alongside discounts, gelato tastings, special giveaways, and more. Owner Simone Dobson attributes much of Euphoria’s success over the past two decades to her professional and specialized staff. (Photo courtesy of Euphoria Wellness Spa)
That connection to Peterborough extends beyond the building. Over the years, Euphoria has supported local hockey and soccer teams, reflecting Simone’s desire to stay involved in the community where the business began.
“It was always about Peterborough,” she says.
On Wednesday, October 7, the Euphoria Forever Beauty Event will bring that community together to celebrate the anniversary. Running from 1 to 8 p.m., the event will feature special offers on products and services, live demonstrations, draws and giveaways, and gelato tastings.
The celebration will also extend to the U4 Rooftop Patio Bar, with a guest DJ, drinks, and appetizers.
Selected complimentary spa services, including brow waxing and polish application, will be available by advance booking, with limited appointments. Gift bags will be available with in-person purchases during the event.
While Euphoria hosts a signature beauty event each year, this anniversary gives the gathering particular significance. For Simone, it is an opportunity to thank the team, clients, and community who have helped shape the business-and to celebrate a milestone they have reached together.
To learn more and RSVP for the Euphoria Forever Beauty Event, visit Euphoria Wellness Spa’s website. To reserve a complimentary brow wax or polish application, call 705-741-4772.
Know Your Locals™ is a branded editorial feature about locally owned independent businesses and locally operated organizations, and supported by them. If your business or organization is interested in being featured in a future “Know Your Locals” branded editorial, contact Jeannine Taylor at 705-742-6404 or jt@kawarthanow.com or visit our Advertise with kawarthaNOW page.
Children's shoes, toys, and offerings on the steps of Peterborough City Hall in June 2021 as part of a community memorial created in response to the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children buried at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia. As well as remembering and honouring those lost to residential schools and the thousands of survivors, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day for Canadians to educate themselves about the heritage, culture, stories, and experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. (Photo: Bruce Head / kawarthaNOW)
Wednesday (September 30) is the sixth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, intended to remember and honour the lost Indigenous children and survivors of Canada’s residential school system as well as their families and communities.
The day will be recognized with events and activities in both Indigenous and settler communities throughout the greater Kawarthas region.
The Canadian government established National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on June 3, 2021, in response to the Call to Action #80 from the 2015 final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which states:
“We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.”
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was established a week after the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation announced preliminary findings from a ground-penetrating radar survey that revealed the remains of 215 children, some as young as three years old, were buried on the grounds of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia, Canada’s largest residential school.
As well as remembering and honouring those lost to residential schools and the thousands of survivors, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day for Canadians to educate themselves about the heritage, culture, stories, and experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
Advertisement - content continues below
September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day, when Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to raise awareness of the tragic legacy of Canada’s residential school system. The day originated as a result of the St. Joseph Mission Residential School Commemoration Project and reunion events in 2013 in Williams Lake, BC.
The orange shirt and the slogan “Every Child Matters” were chosen because of the childhood experience of Phyllis Webstad, from the Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band), on her very first day at the St. Joseph Mission Residential School.
“I went to the Mission for one school year in 1973/1974,” Webstad states. “I had just turned 6 years old. I lived with my grandmother on the Dog Creek reserve. We never had very much money, but somehow my granny managed to buy me a new outfit to go to the Mission school. I remember going to Robinson’s store and picking out a shiny orange shirt. It had string laced up in front, and was so bright and exciting — just like I felt to be going to school!”
“When I got to the Mission, they stripped me, and took away my clothes, including the orange shirt! I never wore it again. I didn’t understand why they wouldn’t give it back to me, it was mine! The colour orange has always reminded me of that and how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and how I felt like I was worth nothing. All of us little children were crying and no one cared.”
The date of September 30 was chosen for Orange Shirt Day because it is the time of year when Indigenous children were taken from their homes to residential schools.
Advertisement - content continues below
Listed below are some of the events and activities in communities across the greater Kawarthas region marking National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30. In addition to events that are open to the general public, First Nations may also be holding events for members of their communities.
Participants will gather at Alderville Health and Social Services at 8467 County Road 45 at 10:45 a.m. and then, at 11 a.m., walk north to the Alderville First Nation Community Centre at 8913 County Road 45. A bus will provide return transportation to the starting point.
Everyone is welcome, and participants are encouraged to wear orange. The walk honours residential school survivors and the children who never returned home.
Bobcaygeon
Community Remembrance Ceremony and Walk
Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon and the Mishkodeh Centre for Indigenous Knowledge will host an outdoor ceremony at 5p.m. at the Boyd Museum at 21 Canal Street.
Curve Lake First Nation members Brittany Taylor and Peggy Day will participate. Following the ceremony, participants will carry 215 stones from the museum’s commemorative art installation to the Gdinuhwendimin garden at Beach Park for a closing moment. Bring a chair and dress comfortably.
Donations will support the school at Curve Lake First Nation.
Cobourg
Flags across the Town of Cobourg will be at half-mast on September 30, and Victoria Hall will be lit orange.
Free Screenings of Indian Horse
The Town of Cobourg presents two free screenings at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. of the film Indian Horse in the Citizens’ Forum at Victoria Hall at 55 King Street West.
Adapted from Richard Wagamese’s novel, the film follows an Ojibway boy whose talent for hockey offers opportunities beyond the residential school where he experiences abuse and cultural suppression. Admission is free and open to the public. The film is rated 14+ and contains distressing depictions of residential school experiences.
Curve Lake First Nation
Curve Lake First Nation will host a sunrise ceremony for members of the community at 6 a.m. at Lime Kiln Park, with a community walk at 10:30 a.m. followed by lunch at the community centre. Community members are encouraged to wear their orange shirts, and orange hats will be available.
Haliburton County
Meet the Ojibwe Spirit Horses
Abbey Gardens at 1012 Garden Gate Drive in Haliburton presents a free opportunity from 11 a.m. to noon to meet its Ojibwe Spirit Horses and learn about their history under the theme “Truth. Respect. Reconciliation.”
The Great Hall at Fleming College’s Haliburton School of Art + Design is hosting a multimedia exhibition until October 15 featuring ceramics, digital art, sculpture, painting, and other works by Indigenous alumni, staff, faculty, and other artists.
Screening of “The Secret Path”
Gord Downie’s animated film The Secret Path, which tells the tragic story of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year-old Anishinaabe boy who died in 1966 after running away from residential school, will be screened at noon in The Great Hall at Fleming College’s Haliburton School of Art + Design.
Advertisement - content continues below
Hastings Highlands
Truth and Reconciliation Event
North Hastings Children’s Services is hosting a Truth and Reconciliation Event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hastings Highlands Centre at 33011 Highway 62 North in Maynooth.
“We invite everyone to join us in wearing an orange shirt to honour all children, as we will be having a dedicated moment of silence. At this year’s event we will have the large drums present for healing, as well as the Shawashkong Ikwe Singers.”
Lindsay
Smudging Circle and Orange Shirt Pin Making at Fleming College
At Fleming College’s Frost Campus, there will be a smudging circle from noon to 1 p.m., where Lori Fournier will lead a reconciliation conversation and reflection at the Frost Campus Learning Lodge. The Frost Student Association will host orange shirt pin making and an information table, with the time and location to be announced.
City of Peterborough
Every Child Matters: Orange Shirt Day Gathering
The Nogojiwanong Urban Indigenous Working Group invites everyone to come together in recognition of Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Healthy Planet Arena at 911 Monaghan Road.
This community gathering will provide an opportunity to remember and honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, as well as survivors, their families, and communities. The gathering will include a tobacco ceremony conducted by Knowledge Carrier Kathy MacLeod Beaver, jingle dress healing dances, healing songs with local drummers, and lunch.
All are welcome to attend this free event and join in this important day of remembrance, reflection, and community.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at the Canadian Canoe Museum
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., The Canadian Canoe Museum invites visitors to engage with Indigenous stories, histories, and voices, with opportunities for reflection, learning, and dialogue.
Admission is free for Indigenous visitors.
Ceremonies and learning activities at Trent University
Trent University’s Symons Campus schedule for September 30 includes a sunrise ceremony at 6:30 a.m. and a campus ceremony and moment of silence at 9:30 a.m., both at the Champlain College fire pit. All are welcome at the campus ceremony.
Other activities include bridge chalking on the Stephenson/LEC Bridge from 10 a.m. to noon, an information table and learning activities on the Lower Bata Podium from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a Three Sisters lunch in the Gzowski College Quad at noon, while supplies last.
There will also be a quilting circle from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Trend at Traill College. This casual drop-in invites community members to learn or share basic hand-sewing skills and help sew a quilt top to be donated to Quilts for Survivors. No sewing experience is necessary, and materials are supplied.
Throughout the day, Fleming College will be hosting various events and activities at Sutherland Campus, beginning at 9 a.m. when interim president Dr. Theresa Knott and student administrative council board chair Kaya Thompson will raise the Survivor’s flag to honour those impacted by the residential school system in Canada. The ceremony, which will also include drumming and opening remarks, will also be livestreamed on Fleming College’s YouTube channel.
Students and employees are invited to take part in rock painting and mindful colouring activities throughout the day. There will also be readings of Phyllis’s Orange Shirt, a Truth and Reconciliation panel discussion, and a KAIROS Indigenous Blanket Exercise.
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Peterborough County will be hosting a flag-raising ceremony at noon at the Peterborough County Courthouse at 470 Water Street.
The ceremony will provide an opportunity to honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, survivors, their families, and communities, while reflecting on the ongoing journey of truth and reconciliation.
Port Hope
“The Secret Path” Screening and Panel Discussion
The Municipality of Port Hope and Northumberland County are presenting a free screening at 7 p.m. of Gord Downie’s The Secret Path at the Capitol Theatre in downtown Port Hope.
The animated film tells the story of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year-old Anishinaabe boy who died while attempting to return home after escaping a residential school. A guest panel featuring Indigenous voices and advocates will follow the screening.
kawarthaNOW.com offers two enews options to help readers stay in the know. Our VIP enews is delivered weekly every Wednesday morning and includes exclusive giveaways, and our news digest is delivered daily every morning. You can subscribe to one or both.
Submit your event for FREE!
Use our event submission form to post your event on our website — for free.
To submit editorial content or ideas, please contact us.
